The Canary Islands broke visitor records again this year despite mounting protests against overtourism.
New data from August revealed the extent of overcrowding across the archipelago.
The islands welcomed 1.23 million foreign tourists, the highest number ever recorded for that month.
This total marked a 6% rise from August 2024, continuing Spain’s broader trend of record-breaking summers.
From January to August 2025, more than 10 million international visitors arrived across the islands.
The Canary Islands ranked as Spain’s third most visited region during that period.
Nearly half a million visitors came from the United Kingdom, while German tourists also made up a large share.
Tourism contributes around 35% of the islands’ GDP, making it their most important industry.
Year-Round Sunshine and Diverse Landscapes Draw Crowds
Located 100 kilometres off Africa’s northwest coast, the islands attract tourists all year due to their mild climate.
The seven main islands — Tenerife, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, La Palma, La Gomera, and El Hierro — each offer unique scenery.
Visitors enjoy beaches, forests, mountains, and volcanic terrain within a few hours of travel.
Flights from most European cities make the islands easily accessible, although recent Ryanair cancellations could affect this.
Locals, however, have expressed frustration over mass tourism and rising pressure on local resources.
Protesters across several islands have called for stronger limits to protect communities and the environment.
Authorities Introduce New Eco-Taxes and Restrictions
Officials plan to introduce an “eco-tax” for hiking in Tenerife’s Teide National Park by 2026.
The park, home to the Teide-Pico Viejo volcano, remains the most visited natural site in the Canaries.
Visitors will pay around €25 to access certain areas, with different rates for specific trails.
Unguided hikes on the Telesforo Bravo route will cost €15, while guided tours cost €10.
The Montaña Blanca–Rambleta trail will cost €6 on weekdays and €10 on weekends or holidays.
Tenerife residents and children under 14 will enter for free, while Canary Island residents receive discounts.
Tenerife’s president, Rosa Dávila, said the fees protect Teide’s biodiversity for future generations.
Other islands are also acting: Gran Canaria’s Mogán now charges a €0.15 daily tourist fee.
New laws across Spain let residents vote to restrict short-term rentals in crowded areas.
El Hierro continues prioritising sustainability with limited flights and minimal accommodation options.
Authorities also enforce fines for public drinking and maintain smoke-free beaches to curb excessive partying.
