Camping is one of the common ways for locals to spend their weekends in Gran Canaria, as the beauty of this island in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean is incomparable. Many wild areas along the coastline are suitable for Caravan parking. But if you’d like to go out in a camping tent, things get a little complicated.
This guide will tell you how to obtain camping permission in Gran Canaria and which zones to camp in. This article will be complimented with our review of the best trails of Gran Canaria. Stay tuned!
Is it legal to camp anywhere in Gran Canaria?
Unfortunately, you cannot freely camp in Gran Canaria. As with many other protected areas, the government of Gran Canaria regulates the camping areas and restricts unauthorized camping. Although Gran Canaria is not a dangerous place to sleep in the wild – one can only encounter snakes and iguanas upon escaping to rural areas – the hazard of forest fires on the lands of few rainfalls is high. Moreover, due to the dry climate, some trails become exsiccated with frequent rockfall, so tents are allowed only in designated places.
Are there free camping areas in Gran Canaria?
Yes, many areas are free to camp. If they are state-run, you need to obtain a camping permit and book your place in advance. The areas are located in the most spectacular parts of the island in the middle of untouched nature, with many trails around. There are also private camping areas where you can show up with your tent or caravan for a nightly fee.
Can I camp on a beach in Gran Canaria?
Beaches that are marked as for public use are not suitable for camping. However, if you find a wild beach with no camping restriction signs and hold a valid camping permit, you might take advantage of spending a day in a tent. Some beaches are Montaña Arena on the South (also a nudist beach) and Playa de Vargas on the East. However, we recommend not staying on the beaches overnight to avoid penalties. Most wild beaches, including the famous Playa de Güigüi, have camping restrictions along the coast.
Do I need permission to camp in Gran Canaria?
Yes, you do. As previously stated, camping without authorization is prohibited in Gran Canaria. It may result in a fine of up to 3000€ for erecting a tent in restricted or “green” areas without a valid permit. Non-permit areas are private camping zones, where you pay the fee nightly.
How to get a camping permit in Gran Canaria?
You can apply online by registering at acampadas.grancanaria.com. Spanish citizens and residents of the Canary Islands have to verify themselves in the system. Foreigners can obtain a one-time permit without verifying their accounts with a digital certificate. In case of any complication, you can go to the Cabildo de Gran Canaria office directly, which is located in C/ Bravo Murillo nº 23 in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (entrance through Pérez Galdós Street). However, an appointment is required—phone number: 928 21 92 29.
What are the best camping places in Gran Canaria?
There are places to set up tents (zonas de acampada), park with caravans (Caravanes), or book camping cabins (albergues, also called Fincas de Uso Público). Most of the camping areas have a free supply of non-drinking water, public toilets, and gas.
There are 13 designated camping areas in Gran Canaria, most in natural reserves and mountain territories.
Llanos de la Pez, for instance, is a well-known camping spot (by reservation) with a recreational area (free to stop by) next to the famous Pico de las Nieves and Roque Nublo, natural monuments of Gran Canaria inside the Tejeda mountains.
Tamadaba Park is also famous for camping and hiking, located in the untouched natural reserve on the island’s West.
What are the best Caravan camping areas in Gran Canaria?
Most of the designated camping areas in the mountain area of Gran Canaria allow Caravan parking. However, most have limited slots and should be booked in advance. Presa de las Niñas for instance, is a popular Caravan camping area situated north of Arguineguin, on the South of the island, next to a water reserve.
Is my permit to camp in Gran Canaria valid in Tenerife?
Unfortunately, not. You must book a new permit in Tenerife, which belongs to another county. The good news is that booking a camping stay in Tenerife is quite simple and can be done online by visiting this website. The most amazing parts of camping in Tenerife also belong to the local government, so by getting permission, you can camp in one of the camping spots and even get your ticket to climb Mt. Teide.
Camping in Gran Canaria is a wonderful experience of unity with nature in one of the safest places in Europe in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. Don’t miss your opportunity and check our recommendations for the best hiking trails in Gran Canaria when you visit!
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