camper van protest tenerife

Camper van owners protest in Tenerife over new restrictions

Camper van owners take to the streets in Tenerife

Hundreds of camper van owners staged a protest in Tenerife on Friday, voicing their opposition to new restrictions on overnight parking and wild camping across the island. The demonstration, which saw a convoy of vehicles wind through the streets of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, was organised by local camper van associations who argue that the rules unfairly penalise responsible travellers.

What are the new restrictions?

The new regulations, introduced by the Cabildo of Tenerife, prohibit overnight parking of camper vans and motorhomes in natural spaces, including popular coastal areas and forest tracks. They also limit where vehicles can stop for more than a few hours, effectively banning the practice known as “wild camping” — staying overnight in a vehicle outside of designated campsites or authorised areas. The authorities say the measures are necessary to protect the island’s fragile environment and to prevent damage to protected landscapes.

Protesters’ concerns

Protesters, however, argue that the rules are too broad and penalise camper van owners who follow the law. “We are not the problem,” said Juan Carlos Hernández, a spokesman for the Tenerife Camper Van Association. “The real issue is the lack of proper facilities and designated areas for motorhomes. We want to travel responsibly, but we need places to stay.” The group claims that the restrictions could deter tourists from visiting the island, damaging the local economy.

Environmental concerns versus tourism

Local environmental groups have supported the new rules, highlighting that uncontrolled overnight parking has led to litter, erosion, and damage to sensitive habitats. They point to incidents where camper vans have been left in protected areas, with waste dumped illegally. The Cabildo has stressed that the regulations are aimed at tackling these issues, not at targeting responsible travellers. However, camper van owners counter that the lack of designated sites forces them into unauthorised spots, creating a cycle of conflict.

What happens next?

The protest organisers have called for a meeting with the Cabildo to discuss the regulations and to propose alternatives, such as creating more official camper van parking areas with basic services. The Cabildo has said it is open to dialogue but has not signalled any intention to reverse the restrictions. The issue remains contentious, with both sides claiming to have the island’s best interests at heart. As Tenerife continues to balance tourism growth with environmental protection, the debate over camper van travel is likely to intensify.

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