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Calima in Fuerteventura: what is it, when does it occur and how can it affect your tourist plans?

By 28 de March de 2025No Comments
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Calima in Fuerteventura is a recurrent atmospheric phenomenon that is arousing increasing interest among tourists, residents and professionals in the tourism sector. Far from being a simple change in the weather, its appearance can influence the planning of outdoor activities, especially those related to the sea and nature. For this reason, from Magic and Sailing, a local company offering boat trips in Fuerteventura, we would like to explain what it is and how to deal with it.

What is calima and why does it occur on Fuerteventura?


Calima is a suspension of dust or sand particles in the air, generally coming from the Sahara desert. When winds blow from the east or southeast, these particles can reach the Canary archipelago, creating a kind of dry haze or mist that reduces visibility and can significantly raise the temperature.

Fuerteventura, due to its proximity to the African continent and its orientation, is one of the islands most exposed to this phenomenon. Although it can occur at any time of the year, episodes of haze are more frequent during the winter and summer, especially between the months of January to March and July to September.

Most affected areas on the island


Although haze tends to spread throughout the territory, the most open and flat areas such as Puerto del Rosario, Corralejo, Gran Tarajal or the area around the airport tend to register a higher concentration of particles. However, as it is an atmospheric phenomenon, its impact can vary from one day to the next, even within the same locality.

How to detect haze? Some useful tips


Detecting haze in time can be key to better plan your day. Here are some simple recommendations:

  • Observe the sky: if a whitish or yellowish haze is perceived, without the presence of clouds, it may be calima.
  • Consult reliable weather sources: official websites such as AEMET often provide advance warning of possible events.
  • Assessing air quality: specialised mobile applications show particle indices in real time.

Is it dangerous or does it limit boat trips?


In most cases, the haze does not prevent tourist activities by boat, although it can cause discomfort for people with respiratory conditions or eye sensitivity. At Magic and Sailing we always prioritise the safety of our passengers, adapting schedules or itineraries if conditions are not optimal.

In fact, in many cases, the effects of calima on the sea are minimal, allowing you to enjoy boat trips to spot dolphins, explore the coastline or simply unwind on the high seas. We know well how the weather behaves here and work with up to date forecasts to provide a safe and enjoyable experience, even if there is light calima.

If you visit Fuerteventura and want to live a different experience, a boat trip around the south of the island can be the perfect plan to get to know its beauty from a different point of view, even on days with light haze.

Knowing the climate is better enjoyment


Understanding what is calima in Fuerteventura and knowing how to deal with it is key to getting the most out of your visit. At Magic and Sailing, we are delighted not only to offer unique excursions, but also to offer the knowledge and closeness of those of us who live and work every day in contact with the nature of the island.

Isabel