New Campervan Regulations Bring Hope for Motorhome Tourism in the Canary Islands
The Canary Islands are moving closer to a clearer legal framework for campervan and motorhome tourism, a change that many travellers, residents and businesses have been calling for over the past few years.
The proposed regulations aim to create more designated areas for motorhomes and campervans while protecting the islands’ natural environment. For visitors planning a Lanzarote campervan holiday, the changes could make travelling around the island much simpler and more organised in the future.
Why Are New Rules Being Introduced?
Motorhome tourism has grown significantly across the Canary Islands over the last decade. However, the increase in visitors travelling by campervan has highlighted a shortage of official overnight facilities.
Until now, there has been no specific regional legislation covering this type of tourism, leaving many decisions to local authorities and creating uncertainty for both travellers and councils. The new decree aims to provide consistent rules across the archipelago while allowing each island and municipality to manage local restrictions where necessary.
What Will Change?
The draft regulations are expected to:
- Create a legal framework for official campervan and motorhome sites.
- Set minimum standards for facilities and services.
- Improve waste disposal, water supply and environmental protection.
- Give local authorities clearer powers to regulate designated overnight areas.
- Help encourage investment in new campervan parks across the Canary Islands.
Industry representatives believe this could encourage more businesses to develop dedicated motorhome facilities, helping meet growing demand from both Spanish and international visitors.
Good News for Lanzarote Tourism
Lanzarote has become increasingly popular with campervan travellers thanks to its volcanic scenery, coastal roads and year-round warm climate.
Despite its popularity, the island has relatively few dedicated motorhome service areas compared with demand, particularly during the busy winter season.
Supporters of the new regulations believe clearer rules could encourage investment in properly managed sites, benefiting tourists while reducing pressure on beaches, beauty spots and residential areas.
Does This Mean Wild Camping Will Be Allowed?
No.
The proposed regulations do not legalise wild camping.
Camping outside authorised areas will continue to be prohibited. However, the regulations clarify the important distinction between parking and camping.
Generally speaking:
- A motorhome that is legally parked, with no tables, chairs, awnings or other camping equipment outside, is treated differently from someone who is actively camping.
- Local councils can still introduce restrictions or prohibit overnight stays in specific locations where necessary.
Industry Welcomes the Move
The Canary Islands Association of Campervan Tourism (ACAT) has welcomed the proposed regulations, saying they represent a significant step towards recognising campervan tourism as an important part of the islands’ visitor economy.
The organisation believes the new framework could provide greater legal certainty for businesses, improve facilities for travellers and encourage sustainable tourism across the archipelago.
What It Means for Visitors
For tourists considering exploring Lanzarote by motorhome or campervan, the long-term outlook is positive.
As new facilities are developed under the updated regulations, visitors can expect better access to dedicated overnight areas, improved services and clearer guidance on where they can legally stay.
At the same time, the regulations aim to protect Lanzarote’s unique landscapes by encouraging responsible tourism and reducing the environmental impact of unmanaged overnight parking.
