Tenerife to Implement Visitor Eco-Tax for Teide National Park in 2026

Tenerife is set to introduce an eco-tax for visitors to Teide National Park starting in 2026.

Details of the Eco-Tax Initiative

The Cabildo de Tenerife’s Government Council has approved the introduction of an eco-tax aimed at enhancing the sustainability of El Teide National Park. Visitors accessing trail number 10, known as “Telesforo Bravo,” and trail number 7, “Montaña Blanca-Rambleta,” will be subject to fees reaching up to €25. This initiative is designed to fund information and interpretation services that will improve visitors’ understanding of the park’s natural environment.

President Rosa Dávila emphasized the importance of El Teide as a symbol of identity and a natural heritage that requires responsible stewardship. She stated that the eco-tax represents a significant step towards balancing visitor enjoyment with the conservation of this fragile ecosystem. Dávila noted that this decision is part of a broader strategy to protect the national park for future generations.

Fee Structure Based on Residency

The pricing for accessing these trails will vary based on the visitor’s residency status, the day of the visit, and the age of the individual. For trail number 10, residents of Tenerife and children under 14 will not incur any charges. Canarian residents will pay a nominal fee of €4 if accompanied by a guide or €6 if visiting unguided. Non-residents will face a fee of €15 for unguided access and €10 if accompanied by a guide.

For trail number 7, Tenerife residents will also be exempt from fees. Other Canarian residents will be charged €3 on weekdays and €5 on weekends and holidays. Non-residents will pay €6 on weekdays and €10 during weekends and holidays.

Conservation and Safety Measures

The eco-tax initiative is part of a comprehensive plan developed by the Teide National Park Board in collaboration with the Department of Ecological Transition and Energy of the Canary Islands Government. This plan aims to ensure the conservation of the park while enhancing visitor safety. Key provisions include limiting the number of visitors and implementing protective measures for the natural environment.

Access to trail number 10 will be restricted to 300 visitors per day, with permits available exclusively through the Tenerife ON platform. Hikers planning to ascend to the summit of El Teide must present a valid permit along with an official identification document. Visitors are required to wear long trousers, warm clothing, and proper mountain footwear, and must carry essential items such as sun protection, energy foods, and water. Additionally, hikers must have a mobile phone with a charged battery, a thermal blanket, a torch or headlamp, gloves, and a hat.

Non-compliance with these regulations could result in fines of up to €600.

Significance of El Teide National Park

El Teide National Park is recognized as the most visited natural site in the Canary Islands and holds the distinction of being a UNESCO World Heritage site. With over 4 million visitors each year, effective management of the park is crucial to maintaining biodiversity, ensuring safety in a high-altitude environment, and providing a quality experience for tourists.

Strict controls will be enforced for those wishing to ascend to the Teide crater from La Rambleta, with mandatory reservations required via the Tenerife ON platform. The maximum capacity for each time slot will be limited to 50 individuals, with designated periods for sunrise (06:00–09:00) and sunset (18:00–22:00).

Additional restrictions will apply to minors and individuals with health or mobility challenges. Essential equipment for hikers includes appropriate mountain clothing and footwear, sun protection, energy food, water, a charged phone, and safety gear. Furthermore, up to 80% of the early morning permits will be reserved for those staying overnight at the Altavista Refuge, promoting sustainable tourism practices in the mountainous region.

Key points

• The eco-tax for Teide National Park will be implemented in 2026.
• Fees will reach up to €25 for access to specific trails.
• Tenerife residents will be exempt from the eco-tax.
• Canarian residents will pay a nominal fee based on their residency and the type of visit.
• Visitor numbers will be limited to protect the park’s ecosystem.
• Strict regulations and safety measures will be enforced for hikers.
• El Teide National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a major tourist destination.