Betancuria is situated in the center of Fuerteventura Island. The municipality of Betancuria has got 715 habitants.

Betancuria is a protected area because it is a Rural Park with agricultural and animal farming traditions in a natural area with unique

characteristics. Its most significant feature is the unique geology and morphology of its deeply eroded landscape.

Most of the park coincides with the outcrop of the basal complex of Fuerteventura, which occupy the western fringe of the island, which not only gives an exceptional scientific interest but also imposes a structural peculiarity and color across its surface. Overall, this is a beautiful landscape steeped in a traditional local color and decorated throughout by singular elements that characterize the landscape of the area (ravines, ridges...).

In the cliffs and mountain ranges are many plants rupicolous refuge, with several endangered and protected species. No shortage of introduced species such as snuff Moor (Nicotine glauca), or even small populations of pines near Betancuria. In addition, special habitats such as wetland dams in Peñitas and Mills, fauna of great interest and coastal and inland cliffs provide shelter for several endangered birds of prey.

This space has been designated as Special Protection Area for birds (ZEPA)

The main environmental impacts in Betancuria are produced by tourism, which damages the environment. It also has a negative influence of acid rain that damages the ozone layer.

Ana Mª López&

Cristina Cerdeña