Discontent and Contrasting Tourism Models in the Canary Islands

In recent years, tensions have escalated in the Canary Islands as residents express frustration over the overwhelming number of tourists. The influx, particularly evident in areas such as Gran Canaria, Tenerife, and La Palma, has contributed to rising prices and forced many locals to relocate farther from central populations, as property developments geared towards tourists continue unabated.

Meanwhile, Lanzarote offers a stark contrast by actively welcoming visitors through a focused advertising campaign and specialized visitor programs. The island champions a distinctive approach to tourism, largely influenced by the legacy of visionary artist Cesar Manrique. His efforts ensured that development remained low-rise and spread evenly, thereby limiting the negative impacts of mass tourism while preserving the island’s natural charm and coastal integrity.

Local entrepreneurs and organizations have carried forward Manrique’s ideals. Restaurateur Augusto Ferreira and groups like Lanzarote Loves Tourism are committed to promoting sustainable tourism that benefits both the economy and the local community. Similarly, initiatives like WeWhale illustrate how small-group tours on the water provide an educational and eco-friendly experience that respects marine life, reflecting a measured and holistic approach to tourism.

Contrasting with Lanzarote’s long-standing success, other parts of the archipelago have experienced backlash as the return of tourists post-lockdown has reignited concerns. In Tenerife, for instance, a luxury tourism project in Puertito de Adeje has met with resistance from locals who fear further environmental degradation and overcrowding. With tens of thousands signing petitions against such developments, the debate continues over how best to balance economic benefits with ecological and community welfare.