The EU holiday hotspot in the Canary Islands in Spain say the new rules are for those hiking to the top of volcano Mount Teide. Visitor numbers will be capped to protect the site
Brit holidaymakers heading to Tenerife have been hit with a new charge to visit the island’s star attraction – Mount Teide.
The EU holiday favourite in the Canary Islands has introduced strict new rules for those trekking to the volcano’s peak. Rosa Dávila announced that visitor numbers will be capped at just 300 a day to protect the site.
The island, which counts Lanzarote among its neighbours, is now offering only three time slots for climbers aiming for the summit. Adventurers must book their slot via the “Tenerife ON” app, choosing from 9am to 4pm, 4pm to midnight, or midnight to 9am.
To keep things running smoothly, Teide National Park is rolling out round-the-clock support staff all year long. Active tourism companies and registered mountaineers get a slice of the action too, with 20 per cent of daily slots reserved for them.
But beware, rule-breakers face a hefty €600 fine, and if you need rescuing, it could set you back between €2,000 and €12,000. Hikers must come kitted out with proper mountain gear, including sturdy boots, warm clothes, a thermal blanket, water, a charged phone, and a headlamp.
Checkpoints along the trails will make sure everyone’s geared up for the climb, reports Birmingham Live. Dávila has announced their intention to roll out an eco-tourism charge, drawing inspiration from the existing fee at Masca Gorge. The revenue generated will be channelled toward the upkeep of the park.
Locals from Tenerife won’t have to pay a penny, and other Canary Islanders can get a discount. The new rules, Dávila explains, are all about reducing environmental impacts, dodging the tourist crush and cracking down on hazardous incidents that lead to pricey rescue missions.
“We’re committed to providing a safer, more enjoyable experience for visitors while protecting the natural beauty of the park,” she explained.
