Canary Islands Safety Guide 2026

Guard Against Pickpocketing — Petty theft (pickpocketing and bag snatching) is the most common crime affecting tourists, particularly in busy tourist areas of Las Palmas, Playa del Inglés, and popular beach spots. Keep bags close, avoid displaying expensive items, and use hotel safes for valuables and passports.

Respect Beach Warning Flags — The Atlantic Ocean around the Canary Islands can have strong currents and undertows. Always check beach warning flags: Green = safe to swim, Yellow = swim with caution, Red = no swimming. Never swim under a red flag. Rip currents are especially dangerous on Atlantic-facing beaches like Playa de Famara (Lanzarote) and northern Fuerteventura beaches.

Sun and Heat Protection — Despite the pleasant temperature, the Canary Islands are close to Africa and the sun is strong year-round. Apply high-SPF sunscreen (30+) every 2 hours, wear a hat, and seek shade between 12:00–16:00. Dehydration and heatstroke are real risks, especially on hikes.

Be Prepared for Hikes — Mountain terrain in Tenerife, Gran Canaria, La Palma, and La Gomera can be challenging. Always carry sufficient water (minimum 2 litres/person), wear sturdy footwear, bring a map or GPS, and tell someone your route. Weather can change rapidly, especially near Teide. Altitude can cause headaches above 2,500m.

Forest Fire Prevention — Forest fires are a serious risk in the Canary Islands during dry summer months. Starting a fire accidentally is a criminal offence in Spain. Never drop cigarette butts in dry areas, avoid leaving glass in the sun (it can act as a magnifying glass), and follow park authorities' instructions. Barbecues are only allowed in designated areas.

Drive Carefully on Mountain Roads — Some mountain roads in Tenerife (especially around Teide), Gran Canaria, La Palma, and La Gomera are narrow, steep, and have sharp bends. Drive slowly, use GPS, and be prepared for oncoming traffic on single-track roads. Avoid driving at night on unfamiliar mountain roads.

Be Cautious Around Volcanic Coastlines — Rocky volcanic coastlines (especially in Lanzarote and El Hierro) can have slippery rocks and large unexpected waves. Never turn your back on the sea, stay away from wave-washed rocks, and keep a safe distance from cliff edges. Several fatalities occur each year from wave accidents.

Health Care and EHIC/GHIC — EU citizens should carry a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for access to Spanish public healthcare. UK citizens should carry a Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC). Travel insurance covering medical evacuation is strongly recommended for all visitors. The main hospitals are Hospital Universitario Insular (Gran Canaria) and Hospital Universitario de Canarias (Tenerife).

Overtourism Protests — Since 2023 there have been growing protests against overtourism across the Canary Islands. While mostly peaceful, demonstrations can cause disruption. Avoid participating in or provoking confrontations with protesters. Check local news for planned demonstrations and route changes.

Tap Water Safety — Tap water in the Canary Islands is generally safe to drink but can taste of chlorine or be desalinated. Many locals and tourists prefer bottled water. Water is scarce — the islands rely heavily on desalination plants. Conserve water where possible.

Nightlife Precautions — Tourist areas like Playa del Inglés (Gran Canaria), Los Cristianos/Playa de las Américas (Tenerife), and Corralejo (Fuerteventura) have busy nightlife scenes. Watch your drinks, avoid accepting drinks from strangers, stay in well-lit areas, use pre-booked taxis, and keep an eye on your possessions in bars and clubs.

Avoid Common Tourist Scams — Common scams include unofficial tour touts, timeshare sales tactics (very prevalent in tourist areas), and unofficial parking attendants demanding payment. Never sign anything under pressure, and book tours through official channels or hotel concierges.

Water Sports and Marine Activities — Always use reputable operators for water sports, diving, surfing lessons, and boat trips. Check operators are properly licensed and have safety equipment. Do not attempt surfing in unfamiliar spots without local knowledge — Fuerteventura and Lanzarote have powerful waves that can be dangerous.