New Rules Approved to Enhance Outdoor Activity Safety in the Canary Islands

The Canary Islands Government approved new rules on Monday aimed at improving the quality and safety of outdoor and adventure activities across the islands. This significant legislative move is designed to ensure that both residents and visitors can enjoy the stunning natural landscapes of the Canary Islands while engaging in various outdoor pursuits.

Scope of the New Regulations

The updated law applies to all types of active tourism, including popular activities such as hiking, scuba diving, cycling, surfing, kayaking, and other adventure sports that attract thousands of visitors each year. The Canary Islands, known for their diverse ecosystems and breathtaking scenery, have become a hotspot for adventure tourism, making these regulations particularly timely and necessary.

This decision was made following extensive discussions with local businesses and stakeholders in the tourism sector. It also comes on the heels of a positive report from the Canary Islands Advisory Council, which highlighted the need for improved safety standards in outdoor activities. The active tourism sector in the islands comprises around 1,200 companies and supports more than 4,000 jobs, underscoring its importance to the local economy.

Goals of the New Rules

Jessica de León, the Regional Minister for Tourism and Employment, elaborated on the objectives of the new regulations, stating that they have two primary goals: “to make the sector more professional and create new job opportunities, while also stopping unqualified operators from working illegally.” This dual approach aims to enhance the overall quality of services provided to tourists while ensuring that only qualified professionals are allowed to operate in this vital sector.

De León emphasized that active tourism is crucial for the islands, as it “creates local jobs, promotes the natural beauty of the Canary Islands without harming the environment, and has a positive impact on local communities.” By fostering a professional environment, the government hopes to attract more tourists and encourage them to explore the islands’ unique offerings, from volcanic landscapes to pristine beaches.

Implementation of Standards

The new regulation sets clearer requirements for companies and guides, recognizing official qualifications and certificates that demonstrate their training to conduct each type of activity safely. This structured approach aims to raise standards across the board, ensuring that tourists can engage in outdoor activities with confidence in their safety.

Moreover, the regulations are designed to protect tourists without creating unnecessary red tape or making it more difficult for legitimate professionals to operate legally in the Canary Islands. By streamlining the process for compliance, the government hopes to encourage more businesses to adhere to the new standards, ultimately benefiting both the operators and the tourists they serve.

These measures are expected to enhance the appeal of the Canary Islands as a premier tourist destination while simultaneously supporting the development of local communities and the economy. As the islands continue to attract visitors seeking adventure and natural beauty, the government’s proactive approach to regulation will likely play a crucial role in sustaining this growth.

Community and Economic Impact

The implementation of these new rules is anticipated to have a significant positive impact on local communities. By ensuring that only qualified operators are allowed to conduct outdoor activities, the government is not only protecting tourists but also promoting a more sustainable tourism model. This approach encourages businesses to invest in training and development, which can lead to higher quality services and a better overall experience for visitors.

Furthermore, the focus on professionalizing the sector is expected to create new job opportunities within the islands. As more tourists flock to the Canary Islands for adventure tourism, the demand for skilled guides and operators will increase, leading to job creation and economic growth. This is particularly important in a region where tourism is a key driver of the economy.

Future Prospects

Looking ahead, the Canary Islands Government is committed to monitoring the implementation of these new regulations closely. Regular assessments will be conducted to ensure that the standards are being met and to make any necessary adjustments based on feedback from both operators and tourists. This ongoing evaluation will be crucial in maintaining the integrity of the active tourism sector and ensuring that it continues to thrive.

As the Canary Islands position themselves as a leader in adventure tourism, these new rules represent a significant step forward in enhancing safety and quality. By prioritizing the well-being of tourists and the professional development of local businesses, the government is laying the groundwork for a sustainable and prosperous future for the islands.

Key points

• New regulations approved to enhance outdoor activity safety.
• Applies to hiking, scuba diving, cycling, surfing, kayaking, and more.
• Decision made after consultations with local businesses and a positive advisory report.
• Active tourism sector includes around 1,200 companies and supports over 4,000 jobs.
• Goals include professionalizing the sector and preventing illegal operations.
• Clearer requirements for companies and guides to ensure safety.
• Expected to boost local communities and the economy.