146 protected natural spaces, including four National Parks and three Marine Reserves, as well as seven Biosphere Reserves, five World Heritage sites, three Starlight Reserves… In short, the Canary Islands are a very special place which is why it is vital that, during your stay in the archipelago, you contribute to the preservation of their natural spaces and unique character by being a responsible tourist.

How to be a responsible tourist

Enjoying oneself and taking care of the environment are not incompatible, all it takes is a little more awareness of our actions and how they can affect the Canary Islands.

Iconos turista responsable

Help us to preserve nature

  • Avoid throwing away rubbish or objects in natural spaces. Throwing away bones, fruit peels or other organic waste and making drawings or towers with stones is counter-productive for the local flora and fauna.
  • Walk along the designated paths and in the signposted areas, and avoid damaging the surroundings and compromising your safety. Remember to respect private areas and property.
  • Use biodegradable sunblocks, as they are more respectful of the environment. Remember, it is forbidden to use soap in the showers on the beach or in other natural spaces.
  • Always park and drive in the designated areas, especially if you are inside a natural space.
  • Prevent forest fires. Fires can only be built in the Recreation Areas or designated zones, and only during the authorised season. And remember to make sure the fire is fully extinguished before leaving. If you detect any fire hazards, please call 112.
  • Pay particular attention to any alerts due to the risk of forest fires. If there is a heat or wind alert, do not make barbecues or engage in activities that can cause fires.
  • Do not smoke and throw away cigarette ends or matches in spaces that are not designated for this purpose, particularly in seasons when the risk of fire is high.
  • Find out about the use of drones. Respect the areas where flying drones is not permitted, as they may pose a risk to the environment.
Cubo de La Galga. La Palma.
Cubo de La Galga. La Palma.

Respect wildlife

  • Respect land and marine fauna. Avoid making excessively loud noises so as not to disturb the tranquillity of the surroundings and do not used motorised water vehicles in protected marine areas. If you find an injured animal, call the Nature Protection Service (SEPRONA) on 062.
  • Do not introduce or take any species of flora or fauna away with you, as this could seriously alter the ecosystem and endemic species of the archipelago.
  • Respect closed geographical areas and seasons for fishing.
Butihondo. Fuerteventura.
Butihondo. Fuerteventura.

Support local development

  • Prioritise Canarian products. Shopping in local stores or eating regional products stimulates the islands’ economy and highlights their rich range of gastronomy and culture.
  • Sign up for activities led by qualified local professionals. Always choose official tour guides and/or certified companies. For example, if you want to enjoy whale watching responsibly, choose a business that has the Blue Boat badge.
Local shops and crafts. Lanzarote.
Local shops and crafts. Lanzarote.

Reduce your ecological footprint

  • Use water responsibly. Showering instead of having a bath or turning off the tap while you clean your teeth are actions that promote the saving of this social and environmental resource.
  • Promote smart energy use. Avoiding leaving lights on or putting on the air conditioning if it isn’t really necessary helps reduce the energy consumption of your stay.
  • Dispose of waste properly and use reusable containers. Recycle your waste in designated bins. For example, do not throw used oil or fatty liquids down the sink or bathroom drains. Instead, keep it in a separate container so that the accommodation owners can take it to a Recycling Point. If you are thinking about visiting natural spaces, take a bag with you for storing your litter until you can dispose of it properly. And prioritise the use of refillable bottles and reusable bags.
  • Be especially careful with cigarette ends. The Canary Islands have more than 1500 km of coastline and smoking is not permitted on the beaches.
  • Move around in public transport whenever you can. Consult the options available for travelling within each island.
Gorona del Viento. El Hierro.
Gorona del Viento. El Hierro.

Nature is not a souvenir

  • Do not take natural elements away with you. It is forbidden to remove stones, plants, flowers, sand, shells and animals. Enjoy their charm in their natural surroundings.
Shells in the hands. La Palma.
Shells in the hands. La Palma.

Be a responsible tourist. Travel, enjoy, respect.