Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Oct. 18, 2024 – Thousands of residents took to the streets across the Canary Islands on Thursday, protesting against what they call the damaging effects of overtourism. Demonstrators voiced frustration over the strain that mass tourism places on local infrastructure, housing, and natural resources, demanding urgent government intervention.
Protests were held in key locations, including Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and Lanzarote, where locals say the unchecked influx of visitors is disrupting daily life and inflating the cost of living. Many carried signs reading “Tourists Go Home” and “Save Our Islands,” reflecting the growing anger toward the tourism industry, which remains the backbone of the region’s economy.
The Canary Islands, located off the northwest coast of Africa, have long been a popular destination, attracting millions of visitors each year with their year-round warm climate, beaches, and volcanic landscapes. However, residents argue that the sheer volume of tourists is becoming unsustainable, leading to overcrowded roads, waste issues, and unaffordable housing.
“We are being priced out of our own homes,” said Elena Martín, a resident of Tenerife. “Many properties are being converted into vacation rentals, leaving locals struggling to find affordable places to live.”
The rise of short-term rental platforms like Airbnb has exacerbated the housing crisis, with locals increasingly competing with tourists for accommodation. In some areas, rental prices have surged by more than 30%, forcing many long-term residents to relocate or live in precarious conditions.
Environmental Impact and Resource Strain
Protesters also highlighted the environmental toll of mass tourism. The islands’ fragile ecosystems, including protected areas and marine life, are under pressure from an increase in visitors. Waste management and water resources are struggling to keep pace with demand, particularly during peak tourist seasons.
“Tourism has turned into a double-edged sword,” said environmental activist Carlos Vega. “While it brings jobs, it’s also polluting our beaches, depleting water supplies, and threatening biodiversity.”
Local environmental groups have urged authorities to introduce stricter limits on tourism numbers and impose sustainability regulations on hotels and resorts.
Government Caught Between Tourism and Public Pressure
The regional government faces the delicate task of balancing economic interests with growing public discontent. Tourism accounts for roughly 35% of the Canary Islands’ GDP and employs thousands of residents, making it a critical sector.
However, pressure is mounting for reforms. Some activists have proposed introducing tourist caps, similar to those implemented in destinations like Venice and Barcelona, or placing restrictions on vacation rentals in residential areas.
“We are not anti-tourism—we just want a tourism model that benefits everyone,” said one protester. “It’s time to shift toward sustainable tourism that doesn’t leave locals behind.”
Calls for Action
Local authorities have promised to review tourism policies in light of the protests, with regional President Fernando Clavijo acknowledging the need for “better regulation” of the industry. However, officials warn that sudden restrictions could harm the islands’ economy, which is still recovering from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We understand the concerns of residents, and we are committed to finding solutions,” Clavijo said. “But we must also ensure that any changes are carefully planned to avoid economic disruptions.”
The Canary Islands are not alone in grappling with the challenges of overtourism. Destinations worldwide are reevaluating their tourism models to manage the impact on local communities and the environment.
In recent years, cities like Amsterdam and Venice have implemented measures to reduce tourism pressure, including tourist taxes, entry fees, and restrictions on short-term rentals. The Canary Islands protests reflect a broader movement toward more sustainable tourism practices as locals demand a greater say in shaping the future of their communities.
What’s Next?
As protests continue, the Canary Islands government has promised to engage in dialogue with community leaders, environmental groups, and industry stakeholders to develop long-term strategies for sustainable tourism. Many residents, however, remain skeptical of promises, saying that past efforts have fallen short of addressing their concerns.
For now, the protests mark a turning point, signaling that residents are no longer willing to accept tourism at any cost. As one banner at the rally read: “We want tourists, not chaos.”