Is Wild Camping Legal in Tenerife? Complete Guide 2025
Tenerife is a dream destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and especially for those who crave the freedom of travelling in a campervan.
The idea of parking near a secret beach, waking up to sunrise views, and living simply sounds like pure paradise.
However, before you pack your gear, it’s crucial to understand one thing:
Wild camping laws in Tenerife have changed, and being informed will save you fines, trouble, and ensure you enjoy the island responsibly.
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about wild camping legality in Tenerife in 2025, plus safe and legal alternatives to live your dream adventure.
Good to know: Travelling in a campervan is still one of the best ways to explore Tenerife, as long as you know where and how to do it properly!
What Does Wild Camping Mean?
First things first: what exactly is wild camping?
Generally, it refers to:
- Setting up a tent, campervan or motorhome outside of official camping grounds.
- Sleeping overnight in natural areas, without booking a paid spot or using designated campsites.
Important distinctions:
- Pernoctar (overnight parking): Sleeping inside your vehicle (without setting up tables, chairs, awnings) is different and more tolerated.
- Camping behavior: If you occupy public space (putting chairs outside, opening awnings, barbecuing), it’s considered illegal camping even if you’re inside a parking spot.
| Action | Is it allowed? |
| Sleeping inside your campervan | ✔️ Yes, if you don’t set up camp |
| Pitching a tent outside authorised areas | ❌ No, illegal |
| Parking and opening awnings, tables, chairs | ❌ No, considered camping behaviour |
| Sleeping at authorised camping sites | ✔️ Yes, legal |
Quick Tip:
If you only park and sleep discreetly inside your campervan, you are generally within the law in most parts of Tenerife.
Is Wild Camping Legal in Tenerife in 2025?
Let’s be clear:
Wild camping with tents is strictly forbidden across all of Tenerife (and the Canary Islands) unless you have a special permit.
Current regulations (2025 updates):
- No camping allowed in protected natural spaces (parks, beaches, forests).
- Strict environmental protection laws exist to preserve delicate ecosystems.
- Campervans are tolerated for overnight stays only if no camping behavior is exhibited.
In short:
You can sleep inside your campervan, parked legally, without setting up camp.
But you cannot set up external furniture, pitch tents, light fires, or spread out your belongings.
Penalties for Illegal Wild Camping
Tenerife takes environmental conservation seriously, and authorities have been tightening controls over the past few years.
Penalties you could face for illegal camping:
- Fines from €100 to over €1,500, depending on the severity and location.
- Immediate eviction from natural parks or protected areas.
- Extra penalties if you damage flora, fauna, or start fires.
| Offense | Possible Fine (€) |
| Camping in a protected natural area | 600 – 1,500 |
| Lighting fires outside permitted zones | 300 – 1,200 |
| Setting up camping gear in public areas | 100 – 600 |
Important:
Simply parking and sleeping discreetly without “camping” behaviour rarely leads to fines if you respect parking rules and local signs.
Where You Can Sleep Legally in Tenerife
Despite the restrictions, you can still enjoy incredible nights under the stars—legally!
Options available:
- Designated camping areas managed by Tenerife’s Cabildo (local government).
- Campsites and caravan parks, offering facilities like showers, electricity, and toilets.
- Public parkings, respecting “no camping” rules (only sleeping inside the van, without external set-up).
Best Legal Spots to Stay Overnight with a Campervan
Here’s a quick table of recommended areas:
| Place | Type | Notes |
| Camping Nauta (Arona) | Campsite | Full facilities, south Tenerife |
| Camping Montaña Roja (El Médano) | Campsite | Near the beach, relaxed atmosphere |
| Zona de Acampada La Caldera (La Orotava) | Designated Area | Permit needed, forest setting |
| Parque Recreativo Las Lajas (Teide area) | Picnic + Camping | Permit needed, stunning views |
Tip:
Some camping areas require online reservation or permits, especially in protected zones like Las Lajas or La Caldera.
Plan ahead to ensure availability!
Tips for Responsible Camping and Travelling
To help protect Tenerife’s beauty and respect the local laws, follow these simple but powerful tips:
- Park only in permitted areas and always observe signage.
- Avoid setting up chairs, tables or awnings unless you are in an official camping zone.
- Never light fires or barbecues outside authorised spaces.
- Leave no trace: take all rubbish with you and keep nature pristine.
- Be respectful to locals and other travellers: lower noise at night and avoid blocking access ways.
Responsible travelling not only keeps you safe from fines but ensures future travellers can enjoy Tenerife’s magic too.
Final Thoughts: Freedom with Responsibility
Is wild camping legal in Tenerife?
Strictly speaking, no—but sleeping in your campervan discreetly and respectfully is allowed and absolutely magical.
Tenerife offers unforgettable sunsets, remote mountain views, and hidden beaches—and with the right mindset, you can experience it freely and responsibly.
