Wednesday, June 25, 2025

In a significant move towards embracing sustainable and alternative tourism, the Canary Islands has introduced a groundbreaking regulation that officially recognizes campsites, camping areas, and motorhome facilities as legitimate forms of tourism accommodation. The new regulatory framework is designed to provide legal clarity for operators, offer a structured approach to open-air tourism, and promote eco-friendly travel. This regulation, introduced in 2025, not only enhances the tourism offerings in the Canary Islands but also sets the stage for a new era in outdoor accommodation, making it a game-changer for eco-tourists, outdoor enthusiasts, and rural communities.

The Canary Islands, known for their stunning landscapes and diverse ecosystems, have long been a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure tourists. With increasing demand for more sustainable and flexible travel options, the region has now made strides in regulating this growing tourism segment. Here’s a closer look at the key features of the regulation and how it affects both operators and tourists.

Campsites, or zonas de acampada, are one of the most popular forms of outdoor accommodation in the Canary Islands. They offer visitors the opportunity to stay close to nature, whether it’s in the mountains, near the coastline, or in rural areas. The new regulation has officially recognized campsites as an essential part of the tourism sector, ensuring that they are well-regulated and operate in an environmentally responsible manner.

Key Features:

Motorhome tourism has been gaining popularity in recent years, particularly in regions that offer breathtaking landscapes and flexible accommodation options. The Canary Islands has responded to this trend by creating designated motorhome areas across the islands. These areas provide all the necessary services for motorhome travelers, allowing them to park, rest, and explore the islands comfortably while complying with local regulations.

Key Features:

One of the central goals of the new regulation is to foster sustainable tourism across the Canary Islands. The region’s natural beauty is a key attraction for visitors, and preserving these landscapes while promoting tourism is essential for the islands’ long-term prosperity. By regulating outdoor accommodations such as campsites and motorhome areas, the Canary Islands government aims to ensure that tourism does not come at the expense of the environment.

Key Sustainability Goals:

As part of the regulatory process, the Canary Islands government has opened the draft regulation to public consultation. This consultation is available on the Canary Islands Government’s Transparency Portal, and it invites input from local councils, environmental groups, tourism operators, and the general public. The public consultation process allows stakeholders to voice their opinions and make suggestions for improvements. This collaborative approach ensures that the final regulation is comprehensive, fair, and effective in addressing the needs of all involved parties.

The introduction of the “Regulation for Open-Air Tourist Accommodation Establishments” represents a transformative shift in how outdoor tourism is managed in the Canary Islands. By officially recognizing and regulating campsites, motorhome areas, and other open-air accommodations, the Canary Islands are not only enhancing their tourism offering but also taking a responsible approach to preserving their natural beauty.