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Canary Islands Face Protest Amid Record Tourist Influx
The Canary Islands have experienced a staggering increase in tourism, with local officials reporting over 1.55 million foreign visitors in March, marking a 0.9% rise from the previous record in March 2024.
This surge has raised alarm among residents, who have been protesting against the effects of overtourism and poor working conditions in the hospitality sector. The protests reflect concerns about the burden of mass tourism on local services, increasing housing costs, and threats to the natural environment.
The Canary Islands National Statistics Institute (INE) disclosed that the total number of international visitors for the first quarter of 2025 reached 4.36 million, up 2.1% from last year. Additionally, tourist spending set a record, with €2.43 billion spent in March alone, indicating growing interest in visiting the archipelago. However, analysts suggest that inflation plays a significant role in this increase.
Despite rising visitor numbers, many residents in the islands have staged protests, highlighting the need for governments to take action against the negative impacts of tourism. Over 80,000 hospitality workers walked out on strike earlier this year, demanding better pay and working conditions.
In response to these mounting pressures, local authorities announced plans to introduce a new eco-tax aimed at protecting the Teide National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, starting in 2026. Visitors will also face restrictions on private car access to the park, with electric shuttle buses offered as an alternative.
Rosa Davila, President of the Tenerife Cabildo, stated that the revenue from the eco-tax will be allocated to conservation projects, which are crucial for maintaining the natural beauty of the islands. This initiative is intended to address the ecological damage caused by increased tourism.
The next significant protest organized by the group Canarias Tiene Un Límite is scheduled for May 18, focusing on government inaction regarding tourism management. Local residents hope that their voices will prompt officials to consider stricter regulations on visitor numbers to safeguard both their livelihoods and the environment.
