Gran Canaria's Local Government Imposes Tourist Restrictions to Safeguard Roque Nublo
New access rules aim to limit overcrowding and protect natural landscapes.
Gran Canaria is taking significant steps to manage the increasing number of visitors flocking to the Roque Nublo Protected Area, marking the latest effort to safeguard the island's natural landscapes. From January 3, local authorities implemented restrictions intended to significantly reduce the volume of tourists allowed to visit this iconic site.
The Cabildo (local government) has introduced a reservation system to cap the number of visitors at Roque Nublo from 2,000 down to just 300 at any one time. This move is part of the broader initiative to promote sustainability and protect Gran Canaria’s remarkable natural environment.
Located at 1,813 meters above sea level, Roque Nublo is not only one of Gran Canaria’s most recognizable landmarks but also holds historic significance. It was revered as a sacred site by the island's original inhabitants, who worshipped the deity Acoran there. The towering volcanic rock formation stands at 80 meters tall and remains under threat due to rising visitor numbers, prompting these new measures.
According to the local government, the main objective of these restrictions is to reduce human impact on the natural ecosystem, which is home to numerous endemic species. Environmental Minister Raúl García Brink has stated concerns over the growing litter problem around Roque Nublo, which has seen increasing amounts of waste, from toilet paper to sanitary products, abandoned by visitors. This behavior has led to what he described as “a lack of civility” and threatens the ecological integrity of the area.
Starting today, visitors to Roque Nublo will no longer be able to park at the main parking area at Degollada de la Goleta, which has been closed to prevent illegal parking and facilitate clearer access for emergency services. Instead, two new designated parking areas have been created: one in the town center of Tejeda and another at Cruz de Los Llanos. Shuttle buses will then transport visitors from these parking lots to the Roque Nublo trailhead, ensuring the preservation of the site and enhancing visitor experience.
The updated transport routes include adjustments to Global’s Line 18 service, which will provide direct connections from the southern part of the island—departing from Maspalomas Lighthouse—and reaching Roque Nublo three times daily. These bus services will run every 30 minutes, except during select peak times.
Reservations for visiting Roque Nublo can be made through the official website, allowing each visitor to book up to five spots. Facilitation of cancellations permitted up to three days beforehand has been particularly commended, providing flexibility for those wishing to adjust their plans.
Schools are also expected to benefit from these changes, as they may visit the area with groups of up to 60 people daily. Tourist excursion companies, on the other hand, will be limited to taking 30 visitors every two hours, ensuring the flow of tourists is controlled and manageable.
To strengthen these conservation efforts, discussions about implementing an eco-tax for visitors has been proposed, though it has not yet been set in motion as authorities aim to avoid complicative delays in enforcing visitor access limits. The initiation of these measures has also sparked discussions around broader tourism policy on the island.
Recently, Gran Canaria’s Council opened a public consultation to gather feedback from the local community about the island's tourism model. This survey, which runs until February 28, includes questions focused on community concerns about mass tourism affecting their environment and local infrastructure. It is part of the council's response to repeated demonstrations held by residents advocating for more sustainable tourism practices.
The results from this public consultation could inform the future direction of tourism on the island, as local officials seek input on how to balance the needs of the community with the thriving tourism sector. Residents will be asked to weigh in on potential changes to improve sustainability and overall quality of life.
While the challenges posed by mass tourism are complex, Gran Canaria's local government is committed to preserving the natural beauty of the island and ensuring it remains accessible and enjoyable for future generations. With careful management and the implementation of these new restrictions, officials hope to strike the right balance between welcoming visitors and protecting their treasured natural landscapes.