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Gran Canaria tourist tax

• BY Simon Machniewski
• 1.04K Views

In 2016, Spain decided to impose an additional tax on destinations popular with tourists. The new tax included the crowded Balearic Islands, among others. Do the same expenses need to be feared in Gran Canaria ?

Tourist tax is a fee that tourists must pay if they choose to spend their vacation in a specific location. The tax is charged from the first day of your stay and is payable in local currency, according to the applicable tariff. Tourist tax is not included in the price of a tour or accommodation rental, which means that if someone goes to Ibiza, for example, he or she must additionally add 1-4 euros per day of stay – the rate depends on the location and the standard of the hotel. Funds raised through the tourist tax go to environmental protection.

Look: winter in Gran Canaria

Is there a tourist tax in Gran Canaria?

Information about a possible tourist tax in the Canary Islands appears regularly, however, so far, it has not been decided. Currently, tourists vacationing in Gran Canaria do not pay any tourist tax, and it is unlikely to be introduced in the near future.

See: Gran Canaria monuments .

Tourist tax in Ibiza

Tourist tax in spain.

• Simon Machniewski

About Author

Traveler and owner of a small marketing agency.

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Are Tourists in the Canary Islands Subject to a Tourist Tax?

• Post author By canariasacross
• Post date 06.12.2023

When planning a trip to the Canary Islands, one of the questions that often arises is whether there is a tourist tax. The Canary Islands, known for their beautiful landscapes and favorable climate, are a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. As a result, there has been speculation about the existence of a tax specifically targeted at tourists visiting the islands.

However, the good news for travelers is that currently, there is no tourist tax in place in the Canary Islands. This means that visitors to the islands can enjoy their stay without having to budget for an additional tax on top of their accommodation and other expenses. Whether you are planning a relaxing beach vacation or an adventurous hiking trip, you can explore all that the Canary Islands have to offer without worrying about any extra fees.

It is worth noting that while there is no tourist tax, the Canary Islands do have a general sales tax, known as the “IGIC” (Impuesto General Indirecto Canario). This tax applies to goods and services purchased within the islands, similar to the Value Added Tax (VAT) in other countries. Therefore, when shopping or dining out in the Canary Islands, it is important to take this tax into consideration and factor it into your budget.

In conclusion, tourists visiting the Canary Islands can breathe a sigh of relief, as there is currently no tourist tax in place. This makes the islands an even more attractive destination for travelers looking to enjoy the unique natural beauty and vibrant culture that the Canary Islands have to offer.

Overview of the Canary Islands tourist tax

The Canary Islands, a popular tourist destination, does have a tourist tax in place. This tax, commonly known as the “sustainable tourism tax,” is collected from visitors to the islands who are staying at registered tourist accommodations. The tax applies to all adults over the age of 16.

The purpose of the tourist tax is to help fund sustainable tourism initiatives and protect the natural environment and cultural heritage of the islands. The revenue generated from the tax is used to support projects that aim to minimize the impact of tourism on the islands’ delicate ecosystems and promote responsible tourism practices.

The amount of the tourist tax varies depending on the type of accommodation and the length of stay. Generally, the tax is calculated per person per night and is added to the cost of the accommodation. The rates are set by the local government and may differ between the different islands of the Canary Islands archipelago.

It is important for visitors to be aware of the tourist tax and factor it into their travel budget when planning a trip to the Canary Islands. The tax is typically payable upon check-in or check-out, depending on the accommodation provider’s policies. It is advisable to inquire about the tourist tax with the accommodation provider before arrival to avoid any surprises.

Overall, the introduction of the tourist tax in the Canary Islands reflects the commitment of the local government to sustainable tourism and the preservation of the islands’ unique natural and cultural heritage. By contributing to the tourist tax, visitors can support conservation efforts and contribute to the long-term sustainability of the Canary Islands as a top tourist destination.

Understanding the purpose of the tourist tax

The Canary Islands have a tourist tax in place, which aims to generate revenue for the local government and support the development of sustainable tourism projects. This tax is imposed on tourists visiting the islands and is collected by accommodations such as hotels, resorts, and holiday rentals.

The purpose of the tourist tax is to mitigate the negative impact of tourism on the islands’ natural and cultural resources. The tax revenue is used to invest in infrastructure, environmental conservation, and the preservation of local heritage. Additionally, the funds raised through the tourist tax contribute to the improvement of public services and the overall quality of life for both residents and visitors.

Benefits of the tourist tax:

1. Sustainable tourism development: The tax helps fund projects that promote sustainable tourism practices, such as the development of eco-friendly accommodations, renewable energy initiatives, and waste management systems.

2. Environmental conservation: The revenue generated from the tax contributes to the preservation and restoration of the islands’ natural resources, including the protection of marine ecosystems, the maintenance of hiking trails, and the conservation of endangered species.

Implementation and collection:

The tourist tax in the Canary Islands is typically levied based on the duration of stay and the type of accommodation. The tax rates vary depending on the island and the category of the accommodation, with higher-end establishments usually facing higher tax rates.

Accommodations are responsible for collecting the tax from their guests and then remitting it to the local government. The tax is usually included in the final price paid by the tourists and is displayed as a separate item on the bill.

It’s important for tourists to be aware of the tourist tax when planning their trip to the Canary Islands, as it may affect the overall cost of their stay. However, the tax is ultimately a means to support sustainable tourism and ensure the long-term preservation of the islands’ natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Is the tourist tax applicable to all visitors?

The Canary Islands, a popular tourist destination, does have a tourist tax in place. However, the application of this tax varies depending on certain factors.

Firstly, it’s important to note that the tourist tax is usually included in the price of accommodations. This means that visitors will typically not have to make a separate payment for the tax when staying at hotels or other types of lodging.

Additionally, the tourist tax is generally applicable to all visitors above a certain age. The exact age limit and the amount of the tax may differ between the different islands within the Canary Islands archipelago.

Some islands may exempt certain categories of visitors from the tax, such as residents of the Canary Islands themselves, or visitors who are staying for a longer duration. It is advisable to check the specific regulations of each island to determine whether you are exempt from the tourist tax.

It’s also worth noting that the tourist tax is typically paid per person, per night of stay. This means that the amount of tax you pay will depend on the length of your stay on the islands.

Overall, while the tourist tax is generally applicable to visitors of the Canary Islands, there are exemptions and variations in the regulations depending on the specific island and individual circumstances. It is recommended to inquire with the relevant authorities or your accommodations provider for the most up-to-date information regarding the tourist tax.

How much is the tourist tax?

The Canary Islands do not currently have a tourist tax in place. Tourists visiting the islands are not required to pay any specific tax related to their stay. This is one of the factors that make the Canary Islands an attractive destination for travelers.

What are the exemptions to the tourist tax?

Tourists visiting the Canary Islands may wonder if they have to pay a tax during their stay. The answer is yes, there is a tourist tax in the Canary Islands, but there are also certain exemptions.

The first exemption applies to residents of the Canary Islands. If you are a resident, you are not required to pay the tourist tax. This exemption is in place to support local residents and encourage tourism from other parts of Spain.

Children and young people

Another exemption to the tourist tax is for children and young people under a certain age. The specific age limit may vary, but usually, children under 12 years old are exempt from the tax. This exemption aims to make family vacations more affordable and accessible.

Note: It’s important to check the current regulations and age limits for the exemptions, as they may be subject to change.

If you do not fall into one of the exemption categories, you will be required to pay the tourist tax during your stay on the Canary Islands. The tax is typically collected by hotels and other accommodations and is used to fund local tourism initiatives and infrastructure development.

Overall, while the Canary Islands do have a tourist tax, there are exemptions in place to ensure certain groups are not burdened by additional fees. By understanding the exemptions, tourists can better plan and budget for their trips to these beautiful islands.

How and where to pay the tourist tax?

The Canary Islands do have a tourist tax, known as the “Ecotasa” or “Green Tax”. This tax is used to support the conservation of the islands’ natural resources and to mitigate the impact of tourism on the environment.

If you are staying in tourist accommodations such as hotels, resorts, or holiday rentals, the tax is usually included in the total price you pay for your stay. Therefore, you do not need to worry about making an additional payment.

However, if you are staying in non-commercial accommodations such as private apartments or villas, you may be required to pay the tourist tax separately. In this case, you will need to visit the local tourist office or the designated payment points to make the payment.

The amount of the tourist tax varies depending on the type of accommodation and the length of your stay. The rates are typically calculated per person, per night. It is advisable to inquire about the specific amount and payment details at your place of accommodation or at the local tourist information center.

It is important to note that the tourist tax is mandatory and failure to pay may result in penalties or fines. Therefore, it is recommended to comply with the local regulations and ensure that you pay the tax if required.

What happens if the tourist tax is not paid?

The Canary Islands do have a tourist tax, and it is mandatory for visitors to pay it.

If the tourist tax is not paid, there may be consequences for the tourists. The exact penalties may vary depending on the specific regulations of the Canary Islands and the circumstances of the non-payment.

Firstly, it is important to note that the tourist tax is typically included in the price of accommodation, such as hotels or vacation rentals. Therefore, tourists are usually expected to pay the tax through the accommodation provider.

If a tourist fails to pay the tax, they may be subject to fines or additional fees imposed by the local authorities. These penalties can range from monetary fines to legal actions, which may include court proceedings.

In addition to potential legal consequences, not paying the tourist tax may also have an impact on the tourist’s experience. For instance, a tourist who hasn’t paid the tax may be denied access to certain amenities or services that require proof of payment. This could include access to certain tourist attractions, public transportation discounts, or other benefits available to visitors who have paid the tax.

To avoid any issues, it is advisable for tourists to ensure they understand the local regulations regarding the tourist tax and make the necessary payments accordingly. This will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience during their visit to the Canary Islands.

How is the tourist tax collected and used?

Although the Canary Islands do not currently have a tourist tax in place, there have been discussions about implementing one in the future. If such a tax were to be introduced, it would be collected from tourists visiting the islands.

The collection of the tourist tax would most likely be done at the point of entry, such as airports, ports, or border checkpoints. Tourists would be required to pay a certain amount of money per night of their stay, which would be used to support various tourism-related initiatives and infrastructure projects.

The revenue generated from the tourist tax could be used for a range of purposes, including the preservation and maintenance of natural sites and tourist attractions, the improvement of public transportation networks, the promotion and marketing of the Canary Islands as a tourism destination, and the development of sustainable tourism practices.

Furthermore, the funds could also be allocated to initiatives aimed at improving the overall visitor experience, such as upgrading tourist facilities, enhancing safety and security measures, and providing better tourist information services.

The exact details of how the tourist tax would be used would depend on the specific regulations and policies implemented by the local authorities. It is important to note that as of now, there is no tourist tax in place in the Canary Islands, but it is always a possibility for the future.

Are there any future plans to change the tourist tax?

Currently, the Canary Islands do not have a tourist tax in place. However, there have been discussions and debates regarding the implementation of such a tax in the future. Some local authorities and tourism organizations believe that a tourist tax could help generate additional revenue for infrastructure development and environmental conservation.

While there are no concrete plans to introduce a tourist tax at the moment, it is an ongoing topic of conversation and may be considered in the future. The potential implementation of a tourist tax would require careful consideration and collaboration between the regional government, local authorities, and tourism stakeholders.

Potential Benefits

An introduction of a tourist tax could potentially have several benefits for the Canary Islands. Firstly, it could provide a new source of income that could be invested in improving the tourist infrastructure and facilities. This could include the development of sustainable tourism practices, the preservation of natural resources, and the enhancement of the overall visitor experience.

Moreover, a tourist tax could help to alleviate some of the pressure on the islands’ limited resources, such as water and electricity. By charging tourists a small fee, it could encourage responsible tourism and help to reduce the negative impact on the environment.

Possible Considerations

However, implementing a tourist tax is not without its challenges. One of the main concerns is the potential impact on the competitiveness of the Canary Islands as a tourist destination. There is a need to strike a balance between generating additional revenue and ensuring that the cost of visiting the islands remains reasonable and attractive for tourists.

Additionally, the distribution and allocation of the tax revenue would need to be carefully managed to ensure that it benefits local communities and supports sustainable tourism initiatives. Transparency in the collection and use of the funds would be crucial to maintain the trust and support of both tourists and the local population.

In conclusion, while the Canary Islands currently do not have a tourist tax, there have been discussions about its potential implementation in the future. The introduction of a tourist tax could bring about various benefits for the islands, but careful consideration and collaboration would be required to strike the right balance and ensure its effectiveness in supporting sustainable tourism.

Pros and cons of the Canary Islands tourist tax

The Canary Islands, a popular tourist destination, is considering implementing a tourist tax. This tax would be applied to visitors staying in accommodations such as hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals. While the idea of a tourist tax may have its merits, it also comes with its own set of pros and cons.

One of the main advantages of implementing a tourist tax is the potential increase in revenue for the local government. The funds generated from the tax could be used to improve the infrastructure and services in the Canary Islands, benefiting both locals and visitors alike. Additionally, the tax could help to offset the environmental impact of tourism by funding conservation efforts and sustainable initiatives.

Another benefit of a tourist tax is the potential to reduce overcrowding and manage the flow of tourists. By implementing a tax, the Canary Islands could discourage low-budget or short-stay tourists, who may contribute to overcrowding without bringing significant economic benefits. This could help to maintain a better balance between the number of tourists and the capacity of the islands.

One of the main concerns surrounding a tourist tax is the potential negative impact on the tourism industry itself. Some argue that imposing an extra fee on visitors could discourage tourists from choosing the Canary Islands as their destination, especially if there are other competing destinations without a similar tax. This could result in a decrease in tourist arrivals and a loss of revenue for local businesses.

Another drawback of a tourist tax is the potential burden it may impose on low-income travelers. For some tourists, especially those on a tight budget, the additional cost of the tax could make the Canary Islands less affordable and therefore less attractive as a destination. This could lead to a decline in tourism and an adverse effect on the local economy.

It is important to carefully consider both the pros and cons of implementing a tourist tax in the Canary Islands. While it may bring financial benefits and help manage overcrowding, it is crucial to balance these potential advantages with the potential negative impact on the tourism industry and affordability for visitors.

Comparison of the tourist tax with other destinations

In comparison to other destinations, the Canary Islands does not have a tourist tax. A tourist tax is a fee charged by the government to visitors, typically per night or per person, to help generate revenue for the local economy and preserve the natural and cultural heritage of the area.

Many popular tourist destinations around the world have implemented a tourist tax, including cities like Amsterdam, Barcelona, and Venice, as well as countries like Croatia and Greece. These taxes vary in amount and are often based on factors such as the duration of stay, accommodation type, and tourist season.

In the Canary Islands, however, there is currently no such tax in place. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful landscapes, pristine beaches, and vibrant culture of the islands without the additional cost of a tourist tax. This is one of the reasons why the Canary Islands remain an attractive destination for travelers from around the world.

While the absence of a tourist tax in the Canary Islands may be a welcome aspect for tourists, it is important to note that there are other charges and fees that may apply, such as airport taxes or specific charges for certain activities or services. It is always advisable to check with local authorities or tourism offices for the most up-to-date information on any applicable charges.

Overall, the Canary Islands offer a unique opportunity for travelers to experience a remarkable destination without the burden of a tourist tax, making it an appealing choice for those looking to explore this beautiful archipelago.

What do tourists think about the tourist tax?

When it comes to the Canary Islands, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe, many tourists are curious to know if there is a tourist tax imposed on visitors. The answer to this question is no, at least for now.

Unlike many other tourist hotspots around the world, the Canary Islands do not currently have a tourist tax in place. This means that visitors to the islands do not have to worry about an additional tax on top of their accommodation and other expenses.

Positive views on the absence of a tourist tax

Many tourists appreciate the fact that the Canary Islands do not have a tourist tax. It allows them to fully enjoy their vacation without any additional financial burden. The absence of a tourist tax also makes the destination more attractive for budget-conscious travelers.

Without a tourist tax, visitors to the Canary Islands can explore the beautiful beaches, indulge in the local cuisine, and experience the vibrant culture without having to worry about an extra fee. This freedom to explore and enjoy the islands without any additional financial implications is highly valued by tourists.

Potential benefits of implementing a tourist tax

While the absence of a tourist tax is generally seen as a positive aspect by tourists, there are also some who believe that introducing a tourist tax could bring certain benefits. A small percentage of the revenue generated from the tax could be used for the development and maintenance of tourism infrastructure, which could enhance the overall visitor experience.

Additionally, implementing a tourist tax could be a way to manage the increasing number of tourists visiting the Canary Islands. By imposing a tax, it could help regulate the flow of tourists and ensure that the islands are not overwhelmed by a sudden influx of visitors.

In conclusion, the Canary Islands currently do not have a tourist tax. While many tourists appreciate the absence of this additional financial burden, there are differing views on the potential benefits of implementing a tourist tax. Ultimately, the decision to introduce such a tax would depend on the authorities and their assessment of the overall impact on the tourism industry and visitor experience.

Tips to save money on the tourist tax

If you are planning a vacation to the Canary Islands, it’s important to be aware of the tourist tax that is imposed on visitors. While it may seem like an extra expense, there are ways to save money on this tax and make your trip more budget-friendly.

1. Research the tax rates

Before you book your trip, take the time to research the tourist tax rates in the Canary Islands. Different islands may have different rates, so be sure to check the specific rates for the island you plan to visit. By knowing the rates beforehand, you can budget accordingly and avoid any surprises.

2. Book accommodations wisely

One way to save money on the tourist tax is by choosing your accommodations wisely. Some hotels and rental properties include the tax in their rates, while others may charge it separately. Look for accommodations that offer all-inclusive packages or deals that include the tax in the room rate. This way, you can avoid any additional charges at check-out.

3. Consider off-peak travel

If you have flexibility in your travel dates, consider visiting the Canary Islands during the off-peak season. Rates for accommodations and tourist tax may be lower during this time, allowing you to save money. Plus, you’ll also enjoy fewer crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere.

By following these tips, you can save money on the tourist tax in the Canary Islands and enjoy a more budget-friendly vacation. Remember to plan ahead, research the rates, and choose your accommodations wisely. Happy travels!

Can the tourist tax be reimbursed?

Yes, the Canary Islands have a tourist tax. However, it is important to note that the tourist tax cannot be reimbursed once it has been paid. The tax is usually collected by hotels or other accommodation providers and then must be remitted to the government.

It is crucial for tourists to be aware of the tourist tax and budget accordingly when planning a trip to the Canary Islands. The tax can vary depending on the type of accommodation and the length of stay. Typically, it is calculated per person per night.

The tourist tax is imposed to help fund various initiatives and services that benefit both tourists and locals on the Canary Islands. It is used to support the maintenance and improvement of the islands’ infrastructure, such as beaches, roads, and public spaces. Additionally, the tax helps finance tourism promotion and development activities.

Paying the tourist tax

When staying at a hotel or other accommodation on the Canary Islands, tourists should expect to pay the tourist tax upon check-in or check-out. The tax is typically added to the final bill and is charged separately from the room rate. Tourists are encouraged to inquire about the tax amount and payment procedure when making a reservation to avoid any surprises.

Does the tourist tax apply to cruise ship passengers?

When it comes to the tourist tax in the Canary Islands, cruise ship passengers may wonder if they are also subject to this fee. The answer depends on the specific rules and regulations of each Canary Island.

While some Canary Islands do impose a tourist tax on cruise ship passengers, others do not. It is important for cruise ship passengers to check the requirements of the specific island they plan to visit in order to determine if they will be required to pay the tax.

For example, Tenerife, one of the most popular Canary Islands, does not currently have a tourist tax for cruise ship passengers. This means that if you are visiting Tenerife as part of a cruise, you will not have to pay any additional taxes beyond the usual fees associated with your cruise package.

On the other hand, other Canary Islands such as Gran Canaria may have a tourist tax that applies to cruise ship passengers. If you plan to visit Gran Canaria on a cruise, it is important to check the specific requirements and fees that may be applicable to you.

How is the tourist tax for cruise ship passengers calculated?

If a tourist tax is applicable to cruise ship passengers, it is usually calculated based on the length of stay on the island. The tax is typically imposed per day or per night of stay, and the exact amount can vary depending on the specific island and its regulations.

It is important for cruise ship passengers to be aware of these potential fees and factor them into their travel budget. Checking with the cruise line or contacting the tourism office of the specific Canary Island you plan to visit can provide you with the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the tourist tax for cruise ship passengers.

Legal implications of not paying the tourist tax

When visiting the Canary Islands, it is important to be aware of the legal implications of not paying the tourist tax. The tourist tax is a mandatory fee imposed on visitors to the islands as a way to contribute to the local economy and maintain the beauty and infrastructure of the tourist destinations.

The Canary Islands have implemented the tourist tax to ensure sustainable tourism and to generate revenue that can be invested in the improvement of tourist facilities, preservation of natural resources, and the promotion of local culture and traditions.

Not paying the tourist tax can have several legal implications. Firstly, failure to pay the tax may result in financial penalties. The local authorities can impose fines and additional charges for non-compliance. These fines can vary depending on the duration of the stay and the number of individuals involved.

In addition to financial penalties, not paying the tourist tax can also lead to legal issues. Local authorities have the right to take legal action against individuals who fail to comply with the tax regulations. This can result in legal proceedings, which may include court hearings and potential sanctions.

Furthermore, not paying the tourist tax can negatively impact the relationship between tourists and the local community. The tax is an important source of income for local businesses and residents who depend on tourism for their livelihood. Failure to contribute to the local economy through the tourist tax can lead to a strained relationship and a negative perception of non-compliant visitors.

To avoid the legal implications of not paying the tourist tax, it is essential for visitors to understand their obligations and comply with the regulations. Tourists should ensure they are aware of the tax amount and payment methods before their arrival to the Canary Islands. It is advisable to consult with local authorities or the accommodation provider to obtain accurate information regarding the tourist tax.

By paying the tourist tax, visitors contribute to the sustainable development of the Canary Islands and support the local community. It is not only a legal obligation but also a responsible way to ensure the preservation and enjoyment of the beautiful tourist destinations.

Question-answer:

Do i have to pay a tourist tax in the canary islands.

No, there is currently no tourist tax in the Canary Islands.

Is there a tax on hotel stays in the Canary Islands?

No, there is currently no tax on hotel stays in the Canary Islands.

Do I need to pay an additional fee when booking a vacation rental in the Canary Islands?

No, you do not need to pay an additional fee when booking a vacation rental in the Canary Islands. There is no tourist tax in the region.

Are there any additional charges when visiting the Canary Islands as a tourist?

No, there are no additional charges when visiting the Canary Islands as a tourist. You are not required to pay a tourist tax or any other fees.

Will I need to pay a tax when visiting popular tourist attractions in the Canary Islands?

No, there are no additional taxes or fees when visiting popular tourist attractions in the Canary Islands. You can enjoy the attractions without any extra charges.

Is there a tourist tax in the Canary Islands?

Yes, there is a tourist tax in the Canary Islands. It is known as the “IGIC” (Impuesto General Indirecto Canario), which is a General Indirect Canary Islands Tax.

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Ultimate Gran Canaria Travel Budget Guide

Updated: March 31, 2022

Spain , Europe , Travel Budget Guides

written by: Steph Kloeckener

This Gran Canaria travel budget guide will tell you everything you need to know to plan your Gran Canaria vacation costs - accommodation, transport, activity costs & more

Planning your Gran Canaria travel budget is not easy, as the island offers a lot of different activities and accommodations. You can plan a trip that suits your dreams – be it a relaxing beach vacation with an all-inclusive package or an adventure full of road trips, hiking, diving, and other outdoor activities. And if you want to, you can even mix it up and combine a few adventurous days with a relaxed hotel stay.

While exploring islands in Europe tends to be more expensive than in Asia, the higher costs are more than worth it when it comes to Gran Canaria. After all, the island is full of amazing landscapes, cities, and things to do. You are bound to find what you love and after reading this Gran Canaria travel budget guide, you will know how much the trip of your dreams will cost you. And maybe you will even stumble upon some things that you will want to add to your trip.

Table of Contents

About this Gran Canaria Travel Budget Guide

This Gran Canaria travel budget guide is based on a press trip, but I looked up how much everything would have cost me if I had paid for everything. That way, it will be easier for you to plan your own Gran Canaria vacation costs, if you want to follow a similar itinerary.

Like my last travel budget guide , this overview of Gran Canaria vacation costs is split into two parts. In the first part, you can see how much my trip cost so you have a comprehensive overview.

After listing all of my own expenses in Gran Canaria, I will list the average price of all things that could impact your daily budget in Gran Canaria. This way it will be easier for you to figure out how high your own Gran Canaria travel budget per day will be. You can easily add or exclude the things you do or do not want to do, and adjust everything based on whether you are traveling alone, with a friend, or with a group.

My Gran Canaria Travel Budget

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through a link. Please see the full disclosure for further information.

When this blog post was first published in October 2021, the exchange rate was as follows: 10 EUR equals 11,57 USD, 16,02 AUD, or 8,59 GBP.

Accommodation Expenses in Gran Canaria

As I was working with the tourism board and some hotels, especially the Gloria Palace, I got the chance to experience everything from a hostel, a vacation house, and a luxurious room with a private pool with an all-inclusive package. Therefore, this Gran Canaria travel budget guide will be much more in-depth than any previous guides about vacation costs when it comes to accommodation costs.

For the biggest part of my trip, I shared the room costs with a fellow blogger, so I will break the costs down to show how much the room cost in total and how much the price per person was. Please be aware of the fact that I did not pay for all hotel stays. I did however look up the exact costs of everything to give you a comprehensive overview.

2 nights in HiTide Surf House, Las Palmas (dorm room) – 17,50€ per night – 35€ total

1 night in Kumara Serenoa by Lopesan Hotels, Maspalomas (suite with breakfast) – 140,05€ per night – 140,05€ total – 46,70€ p.p.

3 nights in Hotel & Spa Cordial Roca Negra (now Occidental Roca Negra), Agaete (classic sea view room with breakfast) – 125€ per night – 375€ total – 187,50€ p.p.

3 nights in Gloria Palace Amadores Thalasso & Hotel, Puerto Rico (double room premium sea view private pool, all-inclusive) – 340€ per night – 1.020€ total – 510€ p.p. + 24,00€ Thalasso Get Fit Pool

7 nights in Lala’s House, Ingenio (entire house) – 46,57€ per night – 326€ total – 163€ p.p.

1 night in Boutique Hotel Cordial La Peregrina, Las Palmas (double room) – 78€ per night – 78€ total – 39€ p.p.

1 night in Sweet Stays, Las Palmas (private room) – 25€ per night – 25€ total

My total cost of 18 nights in Gran Canaria: 1.030,20 EUR / 1192,09 USD / 885,12 GBP / 1650,55 AUD average price per night: 57,23€ p.p.

Food and Drinks Expenses + Supermarket

Unlike during other adventures of mine, I only ate five full meals at restaurants while exploring Gran Canaria. This can mostly be attributed to the fact that I spend an entire week living in a rental house which allowed me and my travel buddy Florine to try out hand at making Canarian food and tapas. While staying in hotels, breakfast was often included and for three days, I even had an all-inclusive package. Therefore, it was enough to simply grab some smaller snacks while out and about instead of sitting down to enjoy a full meal.

Eating out: 56,55€

average price per meal: 11,31€

While shopping at the supermarket, my friend and I decided to split all expenses in half. We went to the shops several times to ensure that we did not have to throw anything away at the end of our trip. For the most part, we bought vegetables, fruit, bread, cheese, hummus, guacamole, flour, milk, eggs, and chicken. Funnily enough, our cheese expenses made up a fourth of our supermarket budget.

Total supermarket expenses: 110,96€ – my share: 55,48€ + 8,58€

Total eating out costs: 56,55 EUR / 65,44 USD / 48,59 GBP / 90,60 AUD + cocktails 14,00 EUR / 16,20 USD / 12,03 GBP / 22,43 AUD + supermarket 64,06 EUR / 74,13 USD / 55,04 GBP / 102,64 AUD

Transportation Costs in Gran Canaria

Airport Bus (LPA to Las Palmas & Las Palmas to LPA): 4,60€

My total public transportation costs: 4,60 EUR / 5,32 USD / 3,95 GBP / 7,37 AUD

Rental Car and Fuel Costs

Gran Canaria is not a small island and therefore perfect for shorter road trips. We had a rental car for 17 days which allowed us to see amazing locations all over the island, so I can only recommend you to rent a car even if doing so does increase your Gran Canaria travel budget. Our rental car was from Tirma Rent a Car and I can only recommend them as they were great.

Total Rental Costs: 645,15€ for 17 days; 37,95€ per day

Share of Car Rental Costs: 322,58€

Total Fuel Costs: 79,00€

Share of Fuel Costs: 39,50€

Total Parking Costs: 31,20€

My total car rental costs : 377,68 EUR / 437,03 USD / 324,49 GBP / 605,11 AUD average cost per rental day: 44,43 EUR (22,22 per person)

There are a lot of free activities in Gran Canaria, but when it comes to these things to do in Gran Canaria, the additional expenses are well worth it.

Dolphin and whale watching cruise Spirit of the Sea : 35€

Coffee plantation tour with taste testing of local food and drinks: 10€

Cathedral Rooftop Access, Las Palmas: 1.50€

Scuba Diving

3 dives in Agaete Buceo Agaete : 150€ (double boat dive + 1 shore dive)

2 dives in Anfi Del Mar Scuba Sur : 72€ (double boat dive)

6 dives in Arinaga: 190€ (2 double shore dives + double boat dive)

My total activity costs : 458,50 EUR / 530,55 USD / 393,93 GBP / 734,59 AUD

I love buying small souvenirs for both family and friends and myself. When it comes to Gran Canaria, I mostly bought things related to local delicacies as I fell in love with the Canarian cuisine.

magnet, metal salamander, sand postcard, mojo cookbook: 11,35€

local marmalade & cookies, a bottle of mojo picante , a 1l bottle of Ron Miel : 20,60€

My total souvenir costs: 29,65 EUR / 34,31 USD / 25,47 GBP / 47,50 AUD

Summary of my Gran Canaria Travel Budget

My Daily Gran Canaria Vacation Costs: 107,12€ 123,95 USD / 92,03 GBP / 171,62 AUD

My Total Gran Canaria Travel Budget : 2035,24€ for 19 Days 2355,06 USD / 1748,63 GBP / 3260,79 AUD

Gran Canaria Travel Budget

Accommodation costs in gran canaria.

There are accommodations of every price class and form all over Gran Canaria, and prices tend to vary depending on the location and the season. If you book accommodations all over Gran Canaria and mix vacation homes and hotels, so you can experience the different vacation types the island has to offer, you can expect to pay around 60€ per person per night. Therefore, a week costs around 360€ per person.

Keep in mind that accommodation prices tend to rise as more people travel there in the summer or fall holidays, so be sure to book in advance to get the best deal.

If you wish to stay within a certain price class, the different accommodation types in terms of costs are as follows:

$ – 20 – 25€ / night p.p. – hostel dorm rooms, vacation home (at least 1 week; shared costs)

$$ – 40 – 65€ / night p.p. – hotel room (sometimes with breakfast)

$$$ – 75 – 175€ / night p.p. – 4* or 5* hotel, half-board or all-inclusive

Transportation Expenses in Gran Canaria

Airport transport in gran canaria.

Upon arrival in Gran Canaria, it is really easy to catch a bus to wherever you want to go in Gran Canaria. The busses that stop at the airport have a luggage storage area, so you do not have to worry about getting on the bus with your suitcase. Just ask the bus driver to open the compartment for you. The cost for a bus ride from the airport to Las Palmas or the other way around is between 2,30€ and 2,95€.

A taxi from the airport to Las Palmas, and to other locations like Maspalomas, usually costs between 33€ and 38€.

Gran Canaria Car Rental Prices

If you want to see remote places and make the most of your time, getting a rental car is a must. With rental costs starting at 35€ per day, doing so might increase your Gran Canaria travel budget, but it is well worth it. After all, it allows you to explore the hidden gems of Gran Canaria , drive to Roque Nublo , and reach some of the best viewpoints .

On average, fuel (95) costs around 1,119€ per liter. We ended up driving all over the place and even revisited some more remote locations and only had to fill up the tank twice.

Most towns and even many hotels outside of Las Palmas offer free parking. It is only in really crowded places that you might have to pay 2€ for a day (Puerto de las Nieves) and between 7,50€ and 12€ for a night or 24 hours in Las Palmas.

Getting around in Gran Canaria

If you do not have a rental car, you can use a bus to explore Gran Canaria. The fares are not too expensive, so buses are a good option for travelers that want to get from one city to another. However, you should keep in mind that there might be no bus to more remote locations like some popular viewpoints and that other bus stops might only see two buses a day, which means that you are on a tight schedule.

A return bus ride from Las Palmas to Agaete costs 8.80€ and a return trip between Maspalomas and Las Palmas will cost you between 6,25€ and 6,80€ depending on where exactly you enter or exit the bus.

Food and Drinks in Gran Canaria

On average, a full meal in a restaurant in Gran Canaria costs around 11,30€. If you want to enjoy a lot of tapas as you explore the island, you should expect to spend between 2€ and 5€ per tapas depending on the size of what you are ordering. A glass of soda in a restaurant averages at 2€ and a bottle of water costs around 1.50€.

Be sure to enjoy as much of the Canarian cuisine while there and ask what the local dish is when you explore picturesque towns in Gran Canaria like Teror. And be sure to eat papas arrugadas with mojo rojo at least once.

Cocktail and Wine Prices in Gran Canaria

You are on vacation, so there is a good chance that cocktails and wine will be part of your Gran Canaria travel budget. And while the cocktail prices in Gran Canaria vary, most cocktails cost between 7,50 and 9,00€. For example, a cocktail at the popular 8 Canes Cocktail Bar in Las Palmas costs 8,60€.

Meanwhile, a glass of house wine or sangria usually costs around 4€. A 0.5l jug of sangria costs around 10€.

Is it expensive to eat out in Gran Canaria?

The food prices in Gran Canaria vary depending on the location, with scenic and sea view restaurants being more expensive, but on average a meal with one drink costs around 11,30€ per person. Therefore, the daily food costs are usually 20€ to 30€ per person if you eat all of your meals at a restaurant.

Entrance Fees

• Casa de Colón, Las Palmas: 2€
• Casa-Museo Antonia Padrón- Centro de Arte Indigenista, Gáldar: 0€
• Museo Canario: 5€

Archeological Sites

• Caves of Valeron: 3€
• Parque Arquelógico Maipés de Agaete: 3€
• Cueva Pintada (Painted Cave): 3€

Activities in Gran Canaria

As you explore the island, you have the chance to do a variety of different activities that range from sports to food tastings at plantations. Hereby, some of the most popular ones are the following:

stand-up paddle-boarding – When you are near Anfi del Mar, you should consider renting a SUP for 1 hour. For only 15€ you get to explore this beautiful area from the seaside.

kayaking – Renting a kayak is possible at several locations around the island including Anfi del Mar. One hour costs 10€.

climbing/canyoning – The prices vary depending on the length of the tour but expect to pay between 60 and 80€ for an action-filled adventure.

Finca or plantation tour – If you want to learn more about the local products or the only European coffee plantations, you should tour a Finca or a plantation. Many great ones are located near Agaete including Cafe Platinum . I toured this plantation in my spare time and loved learning more about the plantation, its fruit, the coffee-making process, and the taste testing of local products right after the tour. The tour was only 10€ and more than worth it.

If you do not have a rental car or just want a day full of activities where you do not have to organize a thing, you can book a variety of great day or half-day trips in Gran Canaria. The most popular ones tend to be off-road jeep safaris, catamaran cruises, and even canyoning.

Diving Costs in Gran Canaria

If you love scuba diving, your total Gran Canaria vacation cost will undeniably be higher than that of non-divers, but the additional expense is more than worth it. After all, the island has amazing dive sites that you should not miss if you love small caves, swim-throughs, and vibrant marine life.

With prices ranging from 50 to 60€ per dive for shore dives, and 60€ to 70€ for boat dives, the prices are on par with other European diving destinations. And if you want to spend several days exploring the underwater world of Gran Canaria, you will even find great packaged deals that will decrease the price per dive by a good amount.

Gear rental prices vary from dive center to dive center with some centers charging per item per dive and others using a daily rate. Be sure to add gear rental costs to your Gran Canaria travel budget if you decide not to bring your own scuba gear or lack some items like a thick wetsuit.

Read More: Scuba Diving in Gran Canaria

Supermarket Prices in Gran Canaria

The prices in supermarkets tend to differ a bit based on the size and location of the supermarket. If you want the best prices HyperDino , Spar and Mercadona are the best options and tend to have the largest selection. If the name of these supermarkets has an Express at the end, the prices tend to be higher and the selection is more limited. On average, the prices in supermarkets are as follows:

• water (1.5l): 0,65 – 0,68€
• soda (1.5l): 1,16€
• soda (2l): 1,33 – 1,85€
• beer can (0.33l): 0,56 – 0,60€
• beer bottle (0.5l): 0,99 – 1,60€
• mojo bottle: 1,95€
• nachos: 0,90 – 2€
• guacamole: 1,60 – 2,15€
• cheese (gouda): 1,20€
• local aged cheese: 3,88€
• local cheese at a market: 8,00€

Obviously, the costs of souvenirs in Gran Canaria vary and it is impossible to list all possible souvenirs, but here are some of the most common things to buy.

• small mojo rojo bottle: 2,30€
• mojo cookbook 4,95€
• a bottle of Run Miel (1l) at the airport: 8€
• magnet: 2,50€

Sim Card and Roaming

At the time of visiting Gran Canaria, I had an active European mobile phone tariff, so I did not have to worry about being able to use my phone. And if you have an ongoing European tariff as well, you do not have to worry about it either. You will be able to use your normal data and calls without the European Union are free.

If you do not live in Europe, I can only recommend getting a local prepaid sim card. Getting the cheapest one-off rate is usually a lot less expensive than buying an international package from your normal phone provider. Vodaphone is a great option when it comes to coverage in Gran Canaria.

Expected Travel Expenses in Gran Canaria (2 people)

Prices vary depending on where in Gran Canaria you are and when you visit the island, but if you are not traveling on a budget, you should expect to spend 120€ per night on accommodation, 40€ on food with an additional 14€ for two cocktails or wine, an average of 40€ per day on transport or a rental car, 10€ on activities and 2€ as money spend on other small expenses like souvenirs. Therefore, a one-week trip to Gran Canaria for two people should cost you around 1.462€ ( approx. 1693,70 USD, 1.256,50 GBP or 2.341,71 AUD).

Is Gran Canaria expensive to visit?

While it is possible to explore Gran Canaria on a budget of less than 70€ per day if you choose to stay in hostels and cook yourself, doing so means that you miss out on some of the best things that the island has to offer. Therefore, it is best to spend more (around 110€ per day) even if this means that your Gran Canaria travel budget is higher than in other similar European destinations. After all, the things you can do in Gran Canaria make the additional expenses well worth it.

And if you wish to stay in an upscale hotel with an all-inclusive package, it. is best to expect a daily budget of 175€ per day or more.

How much spending money for 1 week in Gran Canaria?

If you are traveling on your own, the average daily food cost per person is 20€ and 10€ on transportation if you decide not to rent a car. Unless you plan to remain in Las Palmas, an average accommodation, which is not a hostel, for a solo traveler is between 70€ per day. Additional expenses per day average at 15€ per person. Therefore, a solo traveler can expect to spend 735€ (851,48 USD, 631,69 GBP, 1.177,26 AUD) per week in Gran Canaria.

In case you want to do more expensive activities like scuba diving, jeep safaris, or canyoning, you should add an additional 60€ per day.

Planning a trip?

Check out these useful websites and resources I use to plan my own adventures.

Roundup: Planning a Trip to Gran Canaria?

More about Spain

If you are making plans for your Spain trip, you might also want to check out these Spain Travel Guides : Great Weekend Trips to Spain Hidden Gems in Spain

Looking for more content about Gran Canaria? Gran Canaria Photos Things to do in Gran Canaria

Did any information in this Gran Canaria Travel Budget guide surprise you?

Let me know in the comments down below!

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Not sponsored, but written based on a press trip organized in cooperation with the Gran Canaria Tourism Board and other local partners.

I am the founder of A Nomad's Passport and a solo traveling digital nomad, photographer, and writer. Originally from Germany, I have lived in several countries including Australia & Mexico.

As an outdoor lover and culture enthusiast, I love writing about all forms of adventure travel ranging from outdoor activities like scuba diving and hiking to cultural experiences, alongside road trips and itineraries that combine these elements.

A Nomad's Passport is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.

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Gran Canaria: Popular holiday destination to impose tourist tax, following Tenerife, to protect island's natural spaces including Roque Nublo

Gran Canaria is set to follow in the footsteps of Tenerife and bring in a tourism tax to protect the holiday island’s natural spaces

Popular holiday destination Gran Canaria is set to follow in the footsteps of Tenerife and bring in a tourism tax after anti-tourism protests swept across the island on 20 April. Local authorities are considering imposing entry fees to one of the island's most beautiful natural beauty spots - the Roque Nublo - in an attempt to control visitor numbers.

The Roque Nublo is a volcanic rock and is the third highest point on the island of Gran Canaria. It is located in the central municipality of Tejeda and is also considered one of the biggest natural crags in the world. A study has been commissioned to examine the implications and feasibility of the tourist tax scheme - and according to reports it will be ready in two months time.

The head of the Gran Canaria local authority Antonio Morales said they wanted to control the area more effectively. He added it was part of a wider plan to protect the island's natural spaces from environmental damage, which included the Maspalomas Sand Dunes and the Bandama Caldera.

Also under consideration are plans to ferry visitors on shuttle buses from Tejeda to the Roque Nublo in order to stop people driving there in cars. The announcement comes after officials in Tenerife announced they will impose a tourist tax on visitors.

The new Tenerife tax will reportedly come in on New Year’s Day 2025. It is understood that it will not be applied to tourists upon accessing the island but instead the charge will be made for visits to natural spots and beauty sites. This includes visits to the volcano Mount Teide and hamlets such as Masca while islanders will also be charged. 

It also comes in the wake of a massive demonstration held on 20 April by angry locals protesting about mass tourism. Residents claim holidaymakers are causing major environmental damage, driving down wages and squeezing locals out of cheap affordable housing, forcing dozens to live in tents and cars instead.

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22 replies to this topic

There is no tourist tax

No tourist tax. Only the Balearics and a few cities like Barcelona, that has imposed a city tax.

It is not a thing in the canaries. I am here now and can verify!

This post was determined to be inappropriate by the Tripadvisor community and has been removed.

Please can you provide some kind of link to an official site in relation to this Canaries tourist tax which you seem to be claiming has magically appeared overnight...?

There was some mention that the people who would like to see reduced and more sustainable tourism on the islands would like to see a tourist tax introduced as well. This would presumably raise funds to help with sustainability. Based on what happens in Catalunya it would not be of a size that would deter most potential visitors - but as said, it hasn't appeared magically overnight.

I would welcome a tourist tax like the balearics. :)

Like MiDziE a tourist tax would not put me off visiting as I will have to pay it when in Croatia later in the year

BUT and it is a big but knowing the way the authorities work can we be sure that revenue earned would be spent on the local area and facilities to include improving the lot of the local workers

Without that assurance as far a I am concerned it is a load of Balearics

That's not really how taxation works, Ashtonian. Typically expenditure is forecast and planned and then the predicted revenue from taxation and other sources is divided into various spending streams based on priorities. There's no special way of siphoning off revenue raised by, say, a tourist tax so that it goes on tourist-related (even obliquely, like improving water supply to an area) activities. In all probability, it wouldn't raise enough money to complete all the work that is needed and funding will be supplemented by grants from the EU, central government contributions etc.

In the UK council tax payers (I think all of us) receive a statement from our local councils showing where the money they spend has been spent. I don't know if Spain or the Canary Islands have a similar arrangement. Even if it did, it might be difficult to identify what spending might benefit tourists - for example large infrastructure projects, which would be of benefit to locals but would also be useful to some tourists. Anyway, I'm going to guess, although I'm happy to be proven wrong by reference to hard facts, that places that already have tourist tax spend more tax revenue that benefits visitors than is raised by the tax. Somebody had to build all those roads.

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'My misery, your paradise': The problem with tourism in the Canary Islands

Protesters have taken increasingly extreme measures, with one group going on an "indefinite" hunger strike.

News reporter @jos_franks

Saturday 27 April 2024 08:44, UK

A wave of demonstrations have swept the Canary Islands as locals protested against a tourism model they say has plundered the environment, priced them out of housing and forced them into precarious work.

The seven main Canary Islands are home to 2.2 million people - and welcomed almost 14 million international visitors in 2023, up 13% from the previous year.

The protests were not aimed at individual tourists, activists say, but at the governments that have created a system that skews so much in favour of investors at the expense of local communities.

The tourism industry accounts for 35% of gross domestic product (GDP) in the Canary Islands and local residents who spoke to Sky News agree the islands can't survive without tourism.

But they are also questioning whether local communities and the environment can survive if things stay the way they are.

What's the problem? Tourism is a 'cash cow' - but not for locals

If you're looking for what's behind the wave of protests, you need to look back decades, Sharon Backhouse tells Sky News.

Along with her Canarian husband, she owns GeoTenerife, which runs science field trips and training camps in the Canary Islands and conducts research into sustainable tourism.

The tourism model in the Canary Islands hasn't been updated since before the tourism boom of the 1980s, when the islands were "trying desperately" to attract investment, she explains.

The answer back then was a model that was "incredibly generous" to investors, who only pay 4% tax and can send the profits earned in the Canaries back to the firm's home country, Ms Backhouse explains.

But the model hasn't changed.

That's created a situation where "more and more of these giant, all inclusive resort hotels" are being built, and the proceeds of this "incredible cash cow" aren't shared equitably with the local population, she says.

"It is absurd to have a system where so much money is in the hands of a very few extremely powerful groups, and is then funnelled away from the Canary Islands," she says.

"We're seeing really low salaries, zero-hour contracts and awful working conditions in some of these hotels."

Ms Backhouse was at the 20 April protest in Tenerife and says she has "never seen anything like it" in terms of Canarians being united for a single cause.

'My misery, your paradise'

Earlier this year there was a spate of graffiti in Tenerife.

Andy Ward, director of Tenerife Estate Agents, tells Sky News the media coverage of a smattering of "tourists go home" graffiti has been "100x greater than the on-the-ground reality", where there is little visible animosity.

But there was one spray-painted message that sums up the gulf between Canary Islands residents and the tourists who flock there: "My misery, your paradise".

More than a third of the population of the Canary Islands - nearly 800,000 people - are at risk of poverty or social exclusion, according to a recent report from the environmental group Ecologists in Action.

The average wage for restaurant staff and cleaners is between €1,050 and €1,300 a month, Mr Ward says, while the cost of renting an apartment can be almost as much.

'Shanty towns' in the shadow of luxury

One of the main issues is the dearth of affordable or social housing, Mr Ward says.

"The governments here have completely neglected this need, instead selling land for more hotels and selling land for luxury villas and high-end apartments, which locals are unable to afford."

What has caused anger is property managers renting out properties to tourists that are "completely inappropriate and inadequate", such as small apartments in residential buildings.

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The regulations on short-term lets "are a complete mess and a mish-mash", he says. Landlords aren’t incentivised to let their properties long-term because they must sign up to long leases, and if tenants default on the rent it can take 18 months to evict them.

His views are echoed by Kris Jones, a British citizen who was born in Tenerife, taking over the bar his parents owned in Playa de la Americas, the Drunk’n Duck.

Many hotel employees are forced to live in the multiple motorhome sites that have popped up around the south of the island because they can’t afford anything else, he says.

"Shanty towns" is what Ms Backhouse calls them, built in the shadow of "uber luxury hotels".

Mr Jones questions why planning permission has been granted to hotels without ensuring their employees will be able to live nearby.

He says the idea the island's population hates foreign visitors is "utter garbage".

He stresses that the protests were against the government - not tourists.

"It's nothing to do with the behaviour of British tourists, and isn't even part of the agenda at all," he tells Sky News.

Hunger strike to stop hotels

Protesters say they are having to take increasingly drastic actions to have their voices heard.

Subsequently six members of Canarias Se Agota - which translates to the Canary Islands Are Exhausted - have been on hunger strike since 11 April.

As well as demanding a halt to new tourism developments and a limit to the number of visitors, the campaigners want to stop the development of two luxury resorts in Tenerife.

Both developments faced legal hurdles on environmental grounds that had paused construction, but stop work orders were lifted earlier this year.

Campaigners maintain the developments breach environmental laws - claims the developers deny - and have committed to continuing the hunger strike until the government intervenes, despite some strikers needing hospital treatment.

The hunger strikers, who have not been named, were among fellow protesters on the streets of Tenerife on 20 April.

A spokesperson for the campaign said: "If anything happens to any of our comrades... you (Fernando Clavijo - president of the Canary Islands) will have to face the fury of the people."

The strikers met with the Canary Islands president on 23 April, but their demands were rejected.

Representatives of the strikers said on 26 April the "medical condition of the six is deteriorating, but they are determined to continue" until their demands are met.

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Protesters are also demanding "access to respectable housing", an "eco-tax" and "immediate measures to put an end to the raw sewage discharges into the sea".

Salvar La Tejita, an environmental organisation which helped organise the mass protest, says: "It is vital to clarify that these protests are not against the tourists or tourism in general, but are against the political class, administrations, hotel chains, and constructors who are jointly responsible for the unsustainable circumstances which Tenerife is now in.

"This platform is not in any way responsible for the graffiti messages 'Tourists Go Home' which have been sprayed in and around many tourist resorts.

The environmental cost of tourism

The Canary Islands are a "biodiversity jewel in the Atlantic", Ms Backhouse says - but they haven't been fully protected or valued.

Politicians in the past have said the development of the controversial resorts can't be stopped "just because of a weed", she says.

"These aren't just weeds. What they're actually doing is interfering with an ecosystem which will have difficulty surviving if you plonk a resort right in the middle of it."

The building of these resorts has an environmental costs as "beautiful landscapes are cemented over", Ms Backhouse says - and the cost only mounts once they open.

"The problem with these resorts is that we just don't have enough resources in terms of water, what happens to all the rubbish, how is it all recycled.

"Locals are feeling disenfranchised from their spaces because it all becomes tourist territory.

"Towns and villages that locals grew up in or would go on holiday in suddenly are completely unrecognisable."

What solutions are on the table?

One of the proposals is a tourist tax which would be invested in protecting the environment.

Ms Backhouse says the hotel industry is against it and the government is nervous about it - but GeoTenerife's research indicates it wouldn't put tourists off.

"I think the reality is very few people will cancel their holiday because they have to pay a little bit of money that goes towards protecting the landscapes they're coming to see."

Hoteliers have proposed instead putting up IGIC, which is similar to VAT, but Ms Backhouse says that isn't welcomed by campaigners "because again, that just puts the onus on the locals to prop up the system".

A tourist tax is one part of the answer to protect the environment, but it doesn't answer the question of job insecurity and unaffordable housing.

Ms Backhouse says it is encouraging to see solutions proposed, but "it's going to take something far more wide-ranging to put this train on a more sustainable track".

Impending crackdown on holiday homes

A draft law is expected to be passed this year which would ban newly built properties from becoming short-term rentals and toughen up the rules for existing properties.

It comes as official figures show the number of rental beds on the island reached 220,409 in March this year - an increase of more than 40,000 from the same point in 2023.

Canaries regional tourism chief Jessica de Leon told the Reuters news agency that enforcement support for the islands' 35 inspectors is key to the success of the new rules.

"We are going to empower [the police] so that they can act when fraudulent behaviour is detected in homes," she said, adding that the plan could involve 1,300 people, which would include all of the islands' police forces.

"The first step is to contain the growth, the second is to clean up [existing listings]," said Canaries director of tourism Miguel Rodríguez.

An example of the crackdowns to come occurred on 16 April, when police raided a property in Tenerife after its owner was reported for listing the building's rooftop as a campsite on Airbnb, offering renters tents for €12 (£10) a night.

Read more: Tourist dies after falling into sea in Tenerife Why are university students protesting in the US?

The plans have not proved popular with landlords, who would be forced to comply with the new rules within five years.

"Everything that the government is trying to impose is problematic," says a spokesperson for Ascav, the Canary Islands Vacation Rental Association, adding it is "the most restrictive" legislation of its kind in Europe.

They believe around 95% of the existing holiday homes that abide by current laws will not be able to meet the new criteria, which includes getting consent from local authorities to open, meeting higher energy classification thresholds, having a minimum surface area and more in a long list of "impossible compliance".

"The consequences will be immediate," they warn. "If holiday homes are banned on the islands, visitors who demand this type of accommodation will choose other destinations, Canary Islanders will be even poorer, bars, restaurants, rent a cars, supermarkets, leisure activities, etc. will lose economic activity. Undoubtedly, we all lose."

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Ascav acknowledges "something is going wrong" for the island's economy, but argues it's not down to those providing holiday homes, nor the tourists Canarians "love".

"The message is for our governments, for their passivity, incompetence and lack of planning," they say.

"They are the ones that have allowed that the resources of tourism has not to been shared with the local population. Locals has been excluded because governments preferred permitting to exploit the territory and tourism to the maximum, without any return for the islands and their inhabitants.

"The solution is to listen to ourselves, to listen to our visitors, to listen and protect to the Canary islanders, to integrate, to plan, to be sustainable, to grow with, not at the expense of, to be responsible for the territory and the well-being of its people, to diversify, to ensure the quality of the destination.

"Our problems have to be resolved by politicians, but they lack will and predisposition, that's why we are fed up."

What have politicians said?

The islands' president said the day before the 20 April protests that he felt "proud" the region is a leading Spanish tourism spot, but acknowledged more controls are needed.

"We can't keep looking away. Otherwise, hotels will continue to open without any control," Fernando Clavijo told a news conference.

Two days after the protest, Mr Clavijo posted on X saying: "What happened last Saturday in the streets of Canarias leaves a message that we share. Canarias has to review its model, where we want to go.

"It had to be done during the pandemic, but it is a challenge that we assumed and on which we are already working with the councils, with the city councils and that we must face as a whole in society."

He has called a meeting of island presidents and Canary Island administrators on 30 April in the hope of finding a solution.

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Tens of thousands protest against Canary Islands’ ‘unsustainable’ tourism model

Organisers say 50,000 turn out to call for limit on tourist numbers, saying model makes life unaffordable and puts strain on resources

Tens of thousands of people are protesting across the Canary Islands to call for an urgent rethink of the Spanish archipelago’s tourism strategy and a freeze on visitor numbers, arguing that the decades-old model has made life unaffordable and environmentally unsustainable for residents.

The protests, which are taking place under the banner “Canarias tiene un límite” – The Canaries have a limit – are backed by environmental groups including Greenpeace, WWF, Ecologists in Action, Friends of the Earth and SEO/Birdlife.

“We’ve reached the point where the balance between the use of resources and the welfare of the population here has broken down, especially over the past year,” said Víctor Martín, a spokesperson for the collective Canarias se Agota – The Canaries Have Had Enough – which helped to coordinate protests on Saturday across the eight islands.

Eleven members of Canarias se Agota have already been on hunger strike for a week to protest against the construction of two large luxury developments in southern Tenerife, which they describe as illegal and totally unnecessary.

Police said 20,000 people had turned out for the demonstrations, but organisers put the figure closer to 50,000, Spain’s TVE public television said.

“We are not against tourism,” Rosario Correo, one of the protesters, told TVE. “We’re asking that they change this model that allows for unlimited growth of tourism.”

Protesters also gathered in Madrid and Barcelona to show their support for the rallies in the Canary Islands, public television said.

Last year, 13.9 million people visited the islands, which have a population of 2.2 million. Tourism accounts for about 35% of the archipelago’s GDP – bringing in €16.9bn in 2022 alone – but local people say the industry is stressing natural resources and pricing them out of the rental market.

Figures from Spain’s National Statistics Institute show that 33.8% of people in the Canaries are at risk of poverty or social exclusion , the highest proportion for any region except Andalucía.

Martín said the regional government’s continuing focus on tourism at a time when the climate emergency was leading to cuts to water supplies made no sense. “Demand is rising in urban areas where there are more tourists,” he said. “We’ve had a very dry winter and a water emergency’s already been declared on Tenerife.

“There are going to be restrictions if there’s not more rain this month but it’s 36C here right now. This is all unsustainable and it means that we won’t even be able to keep normal levels of tourism going. And yet the authorities and the businesses here are trying to stick with this model.”

The housing situation in many parts of the archipelago was also dire because of high prices, low wages, a lack of public housing and the continuing cost of living crisis, Martín said. “I realised we’d reached the limit when I saw people who were working as hotel maids or waiters were living in shacks.

“Wages are so low that they don’t cover the basic costs of living, especially in the current crisis, which is global, but has been felt keenly in the Canaries because we have to import practically everything.”

He insisted the protest movement was not anti-tourist, pointing out that many people in the Canaries had known and liked generations of families from countries such as the UK and Germany.

“The problem isn’t the tourists,” he said. “It’s a model that was built around, and with the connivance of, a business class that doesn’t want to listen to what needs to be done, and with a political class that serves that business class instead of serving all the citizens.”

He said a complete rethink of the Canaries’ tourism model could not wait. “What we’re asking is very simple. Given that tourism is the main economic activity and the cause of all these problems, we want an immediate halt to these two mega-projects,” he said of the Tenerife developments.

“We also want a tourist moratorium that will lead to a study of the load each island can take and which will determine whether we’ve already passed the critical point. In areas where there’s an overload, we want to see a stage of degrowth of economic activity to benefit natural resources. Otherwise, you have an existing model that only benefits a very few people.”

Martín said a proper study of the problems the Canaries suffer from could have global repercussions. “This rethinking of the tourism model could put the Canaries on the map as an example of sustainable tourism development,” he said. “We could be known for something positive instead of something negative.”

Fernando Clavijo, the regional president of the Canary Islands, has said his administration is already taking action. “All the actions this government has taken have been based on a revision of this model,” he told reporters this week . “The Canaries tourist model has been a successful one, but obviously, as with anything, there are things that could be perfected.”

Over-tourism has become a major issue in many Spanish cities and regions , triggering protests and backlashes in Barcelona , and leading the authorities in Seville to consider charging visitors to explore the Andalucían city’s famous Plaza de España .

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Visitors to the Canary island of Gran Canaria 2010-2022

Number of inbound tourists in gran canaria, spain from 2010 to 2022 (in millions).

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February 2023

2010 to 2022

including foreign visitors and residents from mainland Spain who arrived by air and stayed for at least one night

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IGIC tax in the Canary Islands - What is it?

Have you ever wondered what the 7% IGIC tax is on when you've got your restaurant check in the Canary Islands?

What is IGIC in the Canary Islands?

We get this question often, so here is the answer: IGIC stands for "Impuesto General Indirecto Canario," which translates to the General Indirect Canary Islands Tax.

IGIC is a value-added tax (VAT) or consumption tax that applies in the Canary Islands, an autonomous community of Spain. IGIC is the equivalent of VAT (IVA in Spanish) that is applied in other parts of Spain and the European Union, but it is lower than VAT usually is.

The IGIC tax rate can vary depending on the type of goods or services being taxed. 

• General Rate: The standard rate is 7%.
• Reduced Rate: A reduced rate of 3% is applied to certain specific goods and services
• Super-Reduced Rate: A super-reduced rate of 0% applies to a very limited number of essential items, such as certain medicines.

Note for visitors: the IGIC on your restaurant check is not service tax, it's simply the equivalent of VAT

As a tourist visiting the Canary Islands, you will most often see the IGIC tax on your restaurant check, in the amount of 7%. This 7% tax that you see on your bill is not a service tax added by the restaurant, as some visitors assume, but it is just the IGIC tax (the equivalent of VAT) and it is NOT OPTIONAL to pay. 

The IGIC tax applies to the entire Canary Islands archipelago , so you will see it under this name in Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, La Palma, La Gomera, El Hierro and La Gracios. 

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• The tourism sector had a historical year for...

The tourism sector had a historical year for income in 2023 in the Canary Islands

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In 2023, the tourism sector in the Canary Islands experienced a 23.2% increase in income compared to 2019, the reference year before the pandemic. This places the archipelago as the third region with the highest growth in tourist sales in Spain, following Catalonia (+27.5%) and the Balearic Islands (+26%), as revealed in data released yesterday (Wednesday) by Exceltur.

The Spanish tourism sector, as a whole, continued its recovery in 2023, concluding the year with a total activity generating €186.5 billion. This represents a significant contribution to the national economy of 12.8%, the highest in historical records.

Forecasts for 2024 are even more optimistic, anticipating a contribution exceeding €200 billion and elevating its share in the national economy to 13.4%.

Tourism emerges as the primary driver of Spain's real economic growth in 2023, rising by 13.1%, constituting 70.8% of the overall real growth estimated at 2.4% by the Bank of Spain.

"We are proud that tourism is the cornerstone of the Spanish economy and has also created more and better employment," stated José Luis Zoreda, the executive vice president of Exceltur, during the presentation of the 2023 tourism business evaluation and the outlook for 2024 in Madrid on Monday.

Forecasts for the tourism sector in 2024 remain high, though more moderate due to the impact of accumulated inflation and increases in wage and financial costs. Zoreda explained, "In 2024, all economic records that Spanish tourism has ever had, will be surpassed."

According to Exceltur, 2024 will solidify the progress of tourism in Spain, with an estimated GDP reaching €202.6 billion, an 8.6% increase over 2023 in current price levels. Consequently, its contribution would rise to 13.4% of the total Spanish economy.

Sales Growth

Consistent with the projections for tourism GDP, Spanish entrepreneurs anticipate further improvement in their sales, estimating a 7.8% increase in 2024 compared to the already positive figures of 2023.

Holiday destinations, along with cities like Madrid and Barcelona, are expected to benefit the most from this growth, driven by high travel intentions, alongside the recovery of long-haul travel and business tourism in international destinations.

Exceltur expresses caution regarding these historical data, emphasising the need to analyse if these exponential growths are sustainable. Zoreda stressed the importance for the Spanish tourism sector to focus more on its domestic demand to reposition itself and manage its success for increased sustainability.

Benefits and Cost Containment

For the second consecutive year, the results of tourism businesses grew in 2023, driven by increased sales and efforts to contain costs. This occurred despite a rise in financial costs (+18.9%) and labour costs (+7.3%), while supply costs (+9.6%) increased moderately, and energy costs decreased (-2.8%).

The growth in tourism in 2023 translated into intense job creation (95,224 more jobs than in 2022) and improved employment conditions (temporary employment reduced to 8% and wages increased by 4.4%), despite the increasing difficulties in accessing trained personnel. The creation of tourism-related jobs accounted for 17% of the total employment generated in Spain in 2023.

Employment in the tourism sector grew more than in other sectors compared to 2022, primarily favouring permanent contracts. According to Exceltur, the temporary employment rate barely reached 8%, significantly lower than the 13.7% in the rest of the Spanish economy.

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4 Tips For Buying A Gran Canaria Property In 2022

Every Gran Canaria property buyer, and especially a first-time buyer, faces a series of worries when they buy a Gran Canaria property. Here are four tips that will help you find and buy the right holiday home or residence in sunny Gran Canaria.

Consider the rules for foreign buyers and tourist zone property use

As a property owner in Gran Canaria there are a number of local and national rules that affect what you can do with your property. For example, holiday lets are governed by specific rules depending on the location and type of property you purchase. There are also rules about whether you can live permanently in a resort property that may affect the kind of apartment of villa you buy for retirement. Make sure you understand these rules, or get expert advice, before you buy in Gran Canaria’s resort areas. British citizens now need to factor in the new rules about how long they can remain in Spain. There is a calculator for this here . UK citizens must also be aware that British passports are only valid for 10 years after their date of issue for travel to the EU.

Liveability rather than profitability

If the events of the last two years have taught us anything about property it is the importance of feeling comfortable in your surroundings. Before you buy a Gran Canaria property give careful, consideration to how you plan to use it and which features are essential. For example, do you value inside space more than a view, or a private terrace more than access to a communal swimming pool? And will these choices vary over time as your children grow up or you retire? Choosing a property in Gran Canaria, especially as a holiday home or second residence, is about finding the place that fits in with the lifestyle that makes you happy.

Details matter

Spanish and Canary Islands property law protects property owners but buying a property can be complex and the details matter. For example… is the community of owners in the complex or building where you want to buy functional and are its statutes registered with the property registry. And do you own your roof terrace or garden area, or just the exclusive right to use it? Who is responsible for its upkeep? These details are the ones that need to be taken care of so that you can buy with absolute safety and peace of mind. It’s what we do, and have done for over 40 years, at Cárdenas Real Estate .

Preparation is still key to getting your ideal property

Quality property in Gran Canaria, and especially by the desirable south coast, tends to sell fast so having your paperwork and finances ready in advance makes all the difference. Get your mortgage pre-approved with a bank, and make sure you can sign documents remotely if required. Using a good local estate agency gives you a big advantage because they help you get everything ready in advance rather than scrambling once you find the right property.

For lots more useful tips about buying a Gran Canaria property see the buyers’ guide section of this blog. 

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Canary Islands: The best Tax System in Europe

Various motives make the Canaries a destination not to be overlooked. Their constant mild temperatures all year round, astonishing nature, rich history and mixed culture, excellent infrastructures and frequent connections by air and sea to all the main international ports and a large number of international airports within Europe and Africa are only a few of the reasons which make the region a leading European tourist destination .

Moreover, the Canary Islands is not only well-known between Europeans but is especially familiar to Latin Americans . In fact, many Latin Americans countries have been closely connected to the Canaries for centuries. The constant migrations either way between Canary Islands and Latin America (e.g., Venezuela, Cuba, Dominican Republic etc.) for centuries shaped the cultural similarities to the point of sharing gastronomy, vocabulary, lifestyle traits and even linguistic similarities. This cultural siblinghood undoubtedly positions the Archipelago as the most welcoming bridge to Europe and Africa , with the icing on the cake being the beneficial tax regime the Canaries has to offer to investors.

The Canary Islands are known for having the best taxation regime in Europe, having a tax system of their own, approved by the EU to minimize its constraints caused by its remoteness, so as to encourage industrial activity and safeguard its competitiveness against outside products. As an example, the Canaries are not part of the European VAT but instead they have a local consumer tax with a standard rate of 7% (much lower than the minimum 15% rate set by EU to each of their member states), besides this, without a doubt, the principal attraction for investors is that the region has by far the lowest corporate rate of Europe (4%) , which application is subject to various requirements and limitations.

How to benefit from a 4% corporate tax rate? For this, first step is to become a ZEC (Special Canary Economic Zone) member.

• Which companies can join ZEC? All those newly created companies that intend to carry out an industrial, commercial or service activity in the islands , and which are framed within a list of permitted activities, can join. The ZEC regime, however, is not valid for pure holding companies nor for companies which activity is carried out elsewhere (e.g., a company registered in the Canary Islands which business activity is to install solar panels only in Italy by Italian employees).Despite there being a list of permitted economic activities, our experience is that where the project has a real economic impact to the Canary Islands (e.g., relatively significant job creation and/or investment), there is a high likelihood to be approved by the ZEC Board.
• Do any other major benefits apply to ZEC companies apart from a low corporate tax? Dividends paid by ZEC subsidiaries to parent companies’ residing in another country (not considered a tax-heaven), are exempt from taxation.
• A registered address and effective management in the Canaries.
• At least one company Director effectively residing in the Canaries.
• Development of a listed permitted activity.
• Minimum investment of €100,000 (Gran Canaria and Tenerife) or €50,000 (remaining islands) in fixed assets related to the activity within 2 years following company registration. In some cases, companies can be exempt from this requirement (e.g., innovative startups and/or companies within the information and communication sector or cases where the employment rate or economic impact is significant), or benefit from a much reduced one (e.g., where the employment rate reaches certain figures).
• Job creation (and further preservation) within 6 months following company registration: a minimum of 5 job positions for the main islands (Gran Canaria and Tenerife) and 3 job positions for the remaining islands. These minimums increase to 6 and 4 respectively, in cases where the above-explained investment requirement does not apply.
• Filing of an extensive report justifying solvency, viability, and a positive contribution to the Canary economy.
• What limitations apply to the reduced tax rate (4%)? The reduced tax rate (4%) is limited to a tax base of € 1,800,000 for companies which only just meet the minimum job creation requirement. For companies with employment creation rates exceeding the min. but up to max 50, an additional € 500,000 applies per job position, the tax base being unlimited where the employment rate exceeds the figure of 50. Any excess of the beforementioned tax bases shall be taxable at the standard Spanish corporate tax rate (25%).

If you are interested in learning how your company can enter the European market from a strategic location within the Canary Islands to benefit from the best tax climate in Europe, the advisors at ECOVIS Legal Spain – Canary Islands will be pleased to respond all your questions and assist you throughout your investment operation.

Contact us:

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This popular European city is the latest to increase its tourist tax to battle overtourism

Barcelona is the latest European city to increase its city-wide tourist tax, a slight increase of €0.50 (about $0.53) per night, as the city seeks to curb overtourism. 

The new price of €3.25 (about $3.45) was implemented on April 1 as part of the Stays in Tourist Establishments Tax . The bylaw was introduced in 2021, when the tourist tax was €0.75 (around $0.80) per night, and gradually increased the tax each year through 2024. Now, if someone is staying in Barcelona for seven nights, the new total tax amount will be €22.75 (around $24).

“It was the objective sought: to contain the number of tourists and increase tourist income because our model is no longer mass tourism but quality tourism, which adds value to the city,” deputy mayor Jaume Collboni said in March, according to Euronews . 

The tax is added to a tourist’s accommodations bill when they stay at official tourist establishments in the city. The money goes toward enhancing the city’s infrastructure, such as improving roads. 

Other popular European destinations, such as Amsterdam and Venice, also recently increased tourist taxes for similar reasons. 

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“The new and increasing tourist fees across Europe allow cities to fund measures to attract more vacationers, support the local infrastructure and businesses, as well as preventing damages from overtourism,” Tiffany Mealiff, a travel insurance expert at Quotezone , said in a statement to USA TODAY.

However, Barcelona visitors have had to pay a regional tourist tax since 2012, according to Euronews . This tax amount depends on a traveler’s accommodation type, costing more if someone is staying at a luxury hotel than an Airbnb. 

Barcelona continues to reign as Spain’s most popular tourist destination. In 2022, Barcelona welcomed 9.7 million tourists , just slightly below pre-pandemic levels in 2019, according to the Barcelona City Council. However, tourists were found to be staying in the city longer than in 2019. 

In 2022, the city also sought to cap the number of people in a tour group and ban megaphones by tour guides in an effort to curb the disruptive effects of overtourism. 

Travelers planning their European getaway should be mindful of the additional costs that “are often not obvious beforehand,” according to Mealiff, as they plan their trip budgets.

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected] .