Consequences of Overcrowded Tourism in the Canary Islands
The Canary Islands, a popular tourist destination known for their stunning landscapes and pleasant climate, are facing significant challenges due to the increasing number of visitors. This surge in tourism is particularly evident in areas like Anaga Rural Park in Tenerife, where local communities are feeling the strain.
Residents Confront Daily Struggles
A recent video shared by TikTok user Humedal Verde (@humedalverde) has shed light on the pressing issues that residents are grappling with as a result of overwhelming tourist traffic. The footage captures a large bus attempting to navigate a narrow road that is clearly ill-suited for such vehicles. The bus repeatedly brushes against the guardrail, and at one point, it even sustains damage, highlighting the challenges that heavy tourism poses in these protected areas.
The resident featured in the video expressed her frustration, stating that “12-metre private buses should be banned.” This sentiment echoes a proposal put forth by the Cabildo Insular de Tenerife, which aims to restrict access to sensitive natural areas like Anaga Rural Park and Masca (Teno). However, despite the proposal’s significance, the implementation of these measures has yet to materialize, leaving residents to cope with the ongoing challenges.
The Escalating Impact of Tourism
The viral video has reignited discussions about the overexploitation of tourism and the growing tensions between visitors and locals. The influx of tourists is not just a seasonal inconvenience; it is disrupting the daily lives of residents, making it increasingly difficult for them to maintain their routines amidst the constant flow of visitors who often disregard environmental considerations.
Despite repeated warnings from both local institutions and community members about the urgent need for limits, tourist numbers continue to rise. In 2024, Tenerife is projected to welcome around 7.2 million visitors, representing a 12.2% increase from 2023. This growth is part of a larger trend, with a cumulative increase of 30% over the past decade. The surge in private excursions has transformed rural areas like Anaga into hotspots where existing infrastructure struggles to accommodate the overwhelming traffic volume.
Voices of the Community
The resident who shared the video aimed to highlight the everyday struggles faced by locals navigating the narrow roads. She articulated her exasperation with the overwhelming number of tourists, stating, “We are fed up with overpopulation and the number of people coming to spend their holidays without limits or restrictions.” This sentiment resonates with many residents who frequently encounter large buses in tight spaces, exacerbating their frustrations.
In her account, she recounted an incident where she had to remove a piece of her vehicle’s bumper that had fallen off due to the bus’s passage. This anecdote illustrates the daily hazards that residents face, including landslides, traffic congestion, hazardous maneuvers, and ongoing damage to the natural environment, which is designated as a Biosphere Reserve. The increasing number of tourists not only affects the physical landscape but also poses risks to the safety and well-being of local residents.
The concerns raised by this resident have reignited discussions about finding a balance between high-volume tourism and the quality of life for local communities in the Anaga massif. Residents warn that overcrowding not only disrupts their mobility but also increases travel times and elevates the cost of living on the island. The strain on local resources is becoming increasingly evident, as essential services struggle to keep pace with the demands of a growing tourist population.
Key points
- The Canary Islands are experiencing significant tourism saturation, impacting local residents.
- A TikTok video highlighted the difficulties of navigating narrow roads due to large buses.
- The Cabildo Insular de Tenerife proposed banning 12-metre private buses in sensitive areas.
- Tenerife expects approximately 7.2 million visitors in 2024, a 12.2% increase from 2023.
- Residents express frustration over the disruption caused by the influx of tourists.
- Concerns include increased travel times and a higher cost of living for locals.
