Mount Teide on Tenerife misused by uncertified guides leading groups and individual hikers through protected areas.
Uncertified guides leading groups and individuals through protected zones are putting immense pressure on the fragile ecosystem of Las Cañadas del Teide. This misuse not only damages the environment but also poses serious safety risks for visitors, especially when weather conditions unexpectedly worsen. Just this past weekend, over 130 people had to be rescued despite repeated warnings about the extreme weather on the mountain. Unfortunately, this is not an isolated incident but indicative of a growing problem.
Sharp Increase in Violations
Reports suggest that by the end of 2024, the number of infractions could approach 1,000, compared to 657 in 2023. Official sources indicate that the number of violations reported by the Servicio de Protección de la Naturaleza (Seprona) of the Guardia Civil has doubled this year. Reports from the Canary Islands Police have tripled, and officials from the Cabildo de Tenerife have so far documented nearly 400 violations.
The alarming rescue of over 130 people in Las Cañadas del Teide last weekend highlights the issue. Despite clear warnings and ample time to prepare for the adverse weather conditions in Tenerife’s highlands, the number of environmental violations continues to rise sharply. Experts fear the total may surpass 1,000 violations by the end of 2024.
Staff Shortages
Some of these violations are criminal in nature. Eight such cases have been identified this year, based on abuses reported by the Cabildo’s forest rangers. Since 2016, a total of 44 criminal cases have been investigated and filed, according to Rafael Ruiz Ibáñez, the provincial environmental officer.
Regarding the situation in Las Cañadas, Ayose Molina, spokesperson for the Canary Islands Forest Rangers and Environmental Officers Association (Afmacan), stated that staffing levels within the island government remain critically low. Only five professionals are responsible for an area spanning nearly 190 square kilometers, which is visited daily by an average of 12,000 to 14,000 people.
“It is physically impossible to continuously patrol the National Park, even with a constant presence,” Molina explained. He also emphasized that the responsibilities of these officials go beyond preventing violations, making the lack of personnel even more concerning.
Reinforcements and Collaboration
The Cabildo de Tenerife is aware of this issue and has initiated a recruitment process to fill 25 new positions across the island, with the expectation that these new professional rangers will be on duty by the summer of 2025.
Starting January 1, 2025, the Cabildo will assume full authority over environmental oversight on the island. In a statement to Diario de Avisos, the institution announced plans to further increase the number of environmental officers and enhance their training.
In this context, collaboration between all stakeholders is crucial. Representatives of all involved services are advocating for improved protection of the natural environment in the Parque Nacional del Teide and Las Cañadas. Their goal is to preserve the delicate balance of this unique ecosystem while ensuring the safety of all who visit.
Guy Devos © Photography
Mount Teide on Tenerife Misused ©
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