Tenerife Cabildo Sets Ambitious Goals for Improved Mobility in Teide National Park by 2026
On December 3, 2023, the President of the Cabildo de Tenerife unveiled a comprehensive plan aimed at enhancing mobility within the renowned Teide National Park. This initiative is part of a broader strategy designed to manage the park’s increasing visitor numbers and is expected to be fully implemented by late 2026.
Comprehensive Mobility Strategy Under Development
The mobility plan is a crucial component of the Master Plan for Use and Management of Teide National Park, which is being developed in stages. While specific timelines for each phase are still being finalized, the President expressed a hopeful outlook for potential implementation as early as the end of next year. This progressive approach reflects the Cabildo’s commitment to addressing the challenges posed by the park’s popularity.
During a recent press conference, the President highlighted the complexities of managing access to the park, particularly due to the overwhelming number of visitors. Most of these guests arrive in private or rental vehicles, which has led to significant congestion and environmental concerns within the park’s boundaries.
Emphasis on Sustainable Transport Solutions
In her address, the President outlined a clear vision to organize visitor access more effectively, with a strong focus on collective transport solutions. This initiative has already begun with the acquisition of 14 new buses, which are intended to facilitate a circular transport route within the park. This step is seen as a vital move towards reducing the reliance on private vehicles and promoting a more sustainable approach to tourism.
To further enhance this initiative, a dedicated commission has been established, comprising representatives from various sectors including Tourism, Environment, Mobility, and Roads. This collaborative group is tasked with developing strategies that will minimize disruption to the spontaneous nature of residents’ visits to the park. One potential strategy under consideration is the introduction of parking space limitations to encourage the use of public transport.
In her remarks, the President emphasized the importance of maintaining the spontaneity of local residents’ visits, stating, “We do not want residents to lose the spontaneity of deciding on any given day to visit Teide. We aim for arrangements that direct tourists towards collective transport and public transport.” This sentiment underscores the Cabildo’s commitment to balancing the needs of both residents and visitors.
Collaboration with Local Stakeholders for Effective Implementation
As an example of regulated access already in place, she referenced the existing system through the “Tenerife ON” app, which effectively manages hiking permits to the peak of Teide. This system has proven successful in controlling visitor numbers and ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
Patience and caution were urged during the implementation process, as the PRUG (Plan de Regulación de Uso y Gestión) allows for a decade-long period for full execution. The President assured stakeholders that the measures would be introduced gradually, emphasizing the commitment of park staff to these initiatives. Recently, the park’s management capabilities have been strengthened by the hiring of 96 new personnel, who will play a crucial role in supporting these mobility enhancements.
Key points
- The Cabildo de Tenerife is actively developing a mobility plan for Teide National Park.
- Full implementation of the plan is anticipated by late 2026, although specific deadlines are still being finalized.
- Access to the park presents significant challenges due to the high volume of visitors.
- A total of 14 buses have been acquired to establish a circular transport route within the park.
- A dedicated commission has been formed to ensure minimal disruption to residents’ spontaneous visits.
- Efforts are being made to promote public transport over private vehicle access to the park.
- The park management has been bolstered by the hiring of 96 new staff members to support these initiatives.
