The Canary Islands welcomed unprecedented tourist numbers despite protests and new overtourism measures.
August alone brought 1.23 million international visitors, marking a 6% increase from 2024.
From January to August 2025, over 10 million foreign tourists arrived, making the islands Spain’s third most popular region.
Nearly half a million visitors came from the United Kingdom, with Germans also comprising a significant share.
Tourism drives roughly 35% of the islands’ GDP and remains a crucial economic sector.
Natural Beauty and Accessibility Fuel Popularity
The Canary Islands attract visitors year-round with warm weather, beaches, mountains, forests, and volcanoes.
The seven main islands—Tenerife, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, La Palma, La Gomera, and El Hierro—offer diverse landscapes.
Air travel connects the islands easily to Europe, although flight cancellations may reduce access.
Despite their appeal, residents have protested against mass tourism and the strain it places on local communities.
New Rules Aim to Protect Nature and Control Tourism
Tenerife National Park will charge an “eco-tax” for popular hiking trails starting in 2026.
The Teide-Pico Viejo volcano, the park’s main attraction, will cost around €25 per visitor, with trail-specific fees.
The Telesforo Bravo summit trail costs €15 unguided, €10 for guided tours. Montaña Blanca-Rambleta fees range from €6 weekdays to €10 weekends.
Residents and children under 14 enter free, while Canary Island residents pay discounted rates.
Authorities hope the measures protect biodiversity and prevent environmental damage from overcrowding.
Other islands regulate short-term rentals, impose daily tourism fees, and limit accommodation to control visitor numbers.
Officials enforce fines for public drinking and maintain smoke-free beaches to curb excessive partying.
Tenerife’s president, Rosa Dávila, said the rules safeguard Teide today and for future generations.
