Travel to El Hierro: breathtaking volcanic landscapes, translucent natural pools, ancient forests shrouded in mist… This small island offers a vacation away from the hustle and bustle of tourism.
But to make sure your trip to El Hierro is a success, it’s best to have a few things in mind and be well prepared.
On this page, we’ve put together all our Fuerteventura travel tips to help you make the right choices and find the trip that’s right for you: when, how, where…
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
A successful trip to El Hierro: the essentials
If you don’t want to read the whole article, here’s a summary of our answers. But you’ll find more detailed information in each section below.
When to go
Temperatures in El Hierro are mild all year round, although slightly cooler than on the other Canary Islands due to exposure to the trade winds. May, June, September and October are often excellent months for enjoying the island in good conditions. But we also made the most of it in December and January…
How long
We recommend a stay of between 4 and 7 days to discover the island at a leisurely pace. El Hierro is small, but every corner is worth a visit.
Where to go in El Hierro
The main areas to stay are:
- Tamaduste on the east coast, near the capital
- La Restinga, to the south, for diving and seaside activities
- Frontera and the El Golfo valley on the west coast. We particularly liked the eastern tip: Las Puntas.
See our article on where to stay.
How to get around
El Hierro has no well-developed tourist transport system. We recommend renting a car on arrival to explore the island freely. The roads are in good condition, and driving is easy.
See car rental offers
Our top 3 things to do
We love many places in El Hierro. Our top 3 is:
- Swimming in the natural pools of Charco Azul or La Maceta
- Hike through the El Sabinar fog forest and admire the wind-twisted juniper trees.
- Admire the magnificent bay of Las Playas with Roque de Bonanza
See all our favorite places in El Hierro.
Not to worry
A trip to El Hierro is easy and without major difficulties.
Just remember to protect yourself from the sun, book your accommodation in advance (supply is limited) and bring provisions if you’re going hiking.
When to go to El Hierro
El Hierro enjoys a mild climate all year round, although temperatures are on average a little lower than on the archipelago’s eastern islands. The island receives more rainfall than Fuerteventura or Lanzarote, which explains its denser, greener vegetation.
Depending on what you’re looking for:
- For warmth and swimming: June to October
- For hiking and exploring: April, May, September and October
- For mild winter weather: December to March (temperatures remain pleasant during the day, around 18-22°C).
But here are a few things you should know:
- Crowd –
El Hierro is the least touristy of the Canary Islands. You won’t find crowds, whatever the season. This is one of its great assets. We enjoyed the peace and quiet, rare in the Canaries. - Weather –
Temperatures are pleasant all year round on the coast. At higher altitudes, it’s cooler, especially in the evenings. Bring a jacket if you’re climbing up to El Sabinar forest or the Mirador de la Peña. - Fog –
The north and higher parts of the island are often covered in mist, especially in summer. This phenomenon, linked to the trade winds, gives the laurel forest (laurisilva) its very special atmosphere. We think this is part of the island’s charm. - Swimming –
Summer and early autumn are the best months for swimming, once the water has had time to warm up. The natural pools are accessible all year round, but the sea can be rough in winter, as you can see in the photo below…
How long to stay
El Hierro is the smallest of the inhabited Canary Islands, covering an area of around 270km². So distances are short.
From Valverde to La Restinga, it’s about a 40-minute drive. To reach Frontera from Valverde, allow 30min.
- If you want to see the main sites (natural pools, Sabinar, Mirador de la Peña), 3 to 4 days are enough.
- To combine hiking, diving and relaxation, we recommend 5 to 7 days.
- To fully explore the island, plan on 8 to 10 days.
- El Hierro also lends itself to an extended stay if you’re looking for a quiet place to disconnect.
How to get to El Hierro
Where is El Hierro?
El Hierro is an island in the Canary Islands, the Spanish archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean.
It is part of political Europe as a territory of Spain, but lies geographically off the northwest coast of Africa, at the level of the Sahara.
It is the westernmost and southernmost island of the Canaries. Until 1885, the reference meridian passed through El Hierro, before being replaced by Greenwich.
As it’s an island, you can get there by plane or ferry.
Flights to El Hierro
El Hierro airport (code VDE) is in the northeast of the island, near Valverde. It is small and only handles inter-island flights.
There are no direct international flights to El Hierro. Binter Canarias operates regular services from Tenerife Nord (TFN) and Gran Canaria (LPA). The flight takes about 40min from Tenerife.
To reach El Hierro from Europe, you must first land in Tenerife or Gran Canaria, then take a connecting flight. We advise you to allow sufficient connection time, as flights to El Hierro are infrequent (2 to 3 a day, depending on the season).
Ferry to El Hierro
You can also reach El Hierro by ferry from Tenerife. Two companies operate services from the port of Los Cristianos (south of Tenerife) to the port of La Estaca in El Hierro.
The crossing takes around 2h30. We found this a pleasant option, as it allows us to see the island gradually appear from the sea.
It’s time to book your ferry crossings!
Compare everything: companies, prices, schedules and availability.
Visa and identity papers for El Hierro
El Hierro is part of Spain, and therefore within the Schengen area.
If you are one of them, you don’t need a visa. You need a valid ID to travel within the country, and also to take a plane or ferry.
For non-European travelers: from 2026, all citizens of visa-exempt countries (USA, Canada, UK, Australia, etc.) will need to obtain an ETIAS authorization before entering the Schengen area, including Greece.
Plan to apply several days before departure to avoid any last-minute stress.
Where to stay in El Hierro
Best places to stay in El Hierro
El Hierro’s hotel offer is limited. There are no big resorts or beach resorts like on the other Canary Islands. You’ll find mainly casas rurales (country cottages), small hotels and vacation apartments. We think this type of accommodation fits in well with the spirit of the island: discreet, authentic and rooted in the landscape.
The main areas to stay:
- Frontera / El Golfo – The El Golfo valley offers a spectacular setting between cliffs and sea. This is the most pleasant area in which to stay, close to natural pools and hiking trails.
- La Restinga – This small fishing village in the south of the island is the ideal starting point for diving. The atmosphere is calm and relaxed.
- Tamaduste – by the sea, near the capital city
See our full article: where to stay in El Hierro.
Or see the top-rated accommodations in El Hierro.
Our recommended hotels and accommodations
If you’re looking for a small hotel with a pool, you have two main options:
Hotel Balneario Pozo de la Salud
Pozo de la Salud, the island’s only spa on the west coast. Ideal for a stay focused on well-being.
See photos and availability
Hotel Parador de El Hierro
In Las Playas, perched overlooking the sea on the east coast, it offers the comfort of a quality establishment in an unspoilt natural setting. In our opinion, this bay is the most beautiful on the island. But know that you’re far from it all.
See photos and availability
But it’s the perfect destination for a quiet casita!
One home or several?
The island is small and the distances are short. You can explore the whole of El Hierro from a single accommodation without difficulty.
That said, if you’re staying for more than 5 days, spending a few nights in two different areas (e.g. El Golfo and La Restinga) allows you to enjoy distinct atmospheres and reduce the number of return trips.
Parking
Parking is generally no problem in El Hierro. The villages are small and tourism remains moderate. You’ll easily find places to stay near natural pools and hiking trails, except for the occasional weekend in summer.
Getting around El Hierro
Rent a car
Renting a car is the best way to discover El Hierro. Public transport is very limited and cabs are few and far between. The roads are in good condition, well maintained and not very busy. Some of the mountain sections are winding, but the ride remains easy.
A small car is enough. We recommend booking in advance, as the number of vehicles available on the island is limited.
There’s so much to discover: be sure to rent a car.
It’s not a very touristy island, so book early for the best choice.
Cabs
There are a few cabs in El Hierro, but the service is limited. If you don’t have a car, you can contact a cab for occasional trips, but it’s best to book in advance. It’s not the most practical option for exploring the island on a daily basis.
Public transport
El Hierro has a limited bus network (Transhierro) linking the main villages. Frequencies are low, sometimes only 2 or 3 trips a day on some lines. This network can help you out for a few trips, but it doesn’t allow you to explore the island flexibly.
Food and beverages
Is tap water safe to drink in El Hierro?
Yes, you can drink tap water. There’s no danger.
As on the other Canary Islands, part of the water supply comes from desalination. Its taste can vary from one part of the island to another. Most locals and visitors prefer bottled mineral water. We did the same during our stay.
Food type
The restaurant offer in El Hierro is more modest than on the larger Canary Islands. You won’t find any international channels or a wide variety of world cuisine. On the other hand, local cuisine is well represented:
- Traditional Canarian cuisine (papas arrugadas, mojo, gofio)
- Fresh fish and seafood, especially at La Restinga
- Local cheeses – queso herreño is famous throughout the archipelago
- Wines from El Hierro, from vines grown at altitude on volcanic soils
Restaurants often close early, and some are only open a few days a week. We advise you to check the timetable and book whenever possible, especially in high season.
Bread and water
As in the rest of the Canaries and Spain in general, you have to pay for the bread on the table if you touch it.
Tip
Tipping is not mandatory in El Hierro.
It’s a good idea to round up if you’re paying cash, or to leave a few euros if you’re satisfied with the service. It’s a voluntary act, to reward quality.
Planning your vacation in El Hierro
Suitcase – what to take to El Hierro
All year round, pack light summer clothes for the coast.
Be sure to bring a windproof jacket or sweater, as the island’s heights (above 1000m) are significantly cooler. High altitude fog can also make the air humid.
And even on the seafront, it can start raining, as you can see in the photo above.
Bring good hiking boots if you plan to explore the trails. We have found that shoes with grippy soles are indispensable on the sometimes slippery volcanic rocks. And closed shoes, because the picon (volcanic gravel) likes to get underfoot!
Don’t forget your bathing suit and towel for the natural pools.
Sun protection
Beware, the sun can be brutal, even when the sky is overcast.
Don’t take any chances: protect yourself with sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses.
Language
El Hierro is in Spain. So we speak Spanish. Unlike the big tourist islands of the Canaries, English is less widely spoken here, especially outside hotels. A few words of Spanish can be useful in everyday life, especially in small restaurants and shops. We noticed that the locals were very welcoming and patient, even when there was a language barrier.
Power strip and adapter
In Spain, and therefore in El Hierro, electrical outlets have 2 round holes (Type E, compatible with Type C).
If it doesn’t match yours, consider bringing a plug adapter.
Travelling to El Hierro: safety
Security
El Hierro is a very safe island. The crime rate is extremely low and local life is peaceful. We had no worries during our stay.
Just take the usual precautions: don’t leave anything visible in the car, as you would anywhere else.
The dangers come mainly from
- fall on the sharp lava rocks.
- swimming in rough or rising seas
Insurance and health
If you are a resident of the European Union, your national health cover also works in El Hierro. Don’t forget to ask for your European Health Insurance Card to make the process easier.
If you’re coming from outside the EU, remember to take out travel insurance.
Please note: El Hierro does not have a large hospital. There’s a health center in Valverde. In the event of a serious medical emergency, a helicopter transfer to Tenerife can be arranged. This is something to keep in mind, especially if you have special medical needs.
What to do in an emergency
In Europe, 112 is the number for all emergencies: police, ambulance and fire. Operators on this number can speak several languages.
This is the only number you need to keep in mind.
Using a VPN
As everywhere else, you run the risk of using shared wifi in accommodation.
We systematically use a VPN to protect our data, especially banking data.
Do not make
THE SAME MISTAKE WE
On one of our last trips to Europe, a hacker stole our credit card details while we were using a hotel WiFi.
So our trip began with a “card blocked” call… Not funny at all!
Learn from our mistake, make a small VPN investment to surf without worry.
Must-see attractions in El Hierro
El Hierro is an island to be discovered slowly, on foot, by car and underwater. Here’s a summary of the experiences you won’t want to miss:
- Natural swimming pools
- Admire Bonanza Rock in its impressive bay
- Admire the lava cliffs and arches
- Enjoy the many viewpoints, such as the Mirador de la Peña, designed by Canary Islands artist César Manrique.
- Hiking around volcanoes
- Walking in the laurel forest (laurisilva)
- Diving at La Restinga
See our article on the best attractions in El Hierro.
El Hierro, biosphere reserve
The entire island has been a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 2000. El Hierro is also a pioneer in renewable energy: the Gorona del Viento hydroelectric power station aims to make the island self-sufficient in electricity. We feel that this environmental approach is coherent and is reflected in the way the island manages its territory.
Itineraries in El Hierro
See all our itinerary suggestions:
- 3 days (coming soon)
- 5 days (coming soon)
- 1 week (coming soon)
Travelling to El Hierro: FAQs
What time zone is El Hierro in?
El Hierro is at the same time as London (GMT/UTC+0), as are all the Canary Islands. That’s an hour less than mainland Spain.
Is El Hierro suitable for families?
El Hierro is ideal for families, as long as you enjoy a peaceful, nature-oriented holiday. There are no amusement parks or long sandy beaches. The natural pools are accessible to children, but some require special vigilance due to rocks and swell. The island is especially suited to families used to hiking and outdoor activities.
Are there any sandy beaches in El Hierro?
El Hierro is not a beach destination in the classical sense. The coasts are mainly rocky, made up of volcanic formations. There are a few small black sand or pebble beaches, notably Playa del Verodal to the west (red-brown sand) and Playa de Timijiraque to the east. For swimming, natural pools are the most comfortable option.
Can I combine El Hierro with another island?
Yes, it’s perfectly feasible. The most logical combination is El Hierro and Tenerife, since flights and ferries depart from this island. You could spend a week in Tenerife and then 4 or 5 days in El Hierro, for example. The contrast between the two islands is striking: El Hierro offers a radically different pace from the hustle and bustle of Tenerife.
Is El Hierro accessible to people with reduced mobility?
Accessibility remains a challenge in El Hierro. The terrain is mountainous, and many natural sites (natural pools, hiking trails) feature steps or uneven surfaces. The villages are small and not always well developed. The main viewpoints, such as La Peña, are accessible by car. We recommend that you find out in advance about the conditions of access to the sites you wish to visit.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO El Hierro
- Best of
Why visit El Hierro
What to do in El Hierro
Hiking (coming soon)
Arches (coming soon)
Piscines naturelelrs (coming soon)
- Practical advice
How to get to El Hierro (coming soon)
Getting around (coming soon)
Rent a car and drive (coming soon)
When to visit (coming soon)
How long (to come)
Where to stay in El Hierro (coming soon)
Itineraries: 3 days – 4 days – 5 days – 1 week – 10 days
