From February 2025, visiting the iconic Roque Nublo in Gran Canaria will require a prior reservation. The measure, introduced by the island’s government, aims to tackle overcrowding and ensure the area’s environmental sustainability.
With over 1,800 visitors daily during peak times, the new system is expected to significantly reduce these numbers, protecting the natural beauty of this landmark.
Reservation system to manage visitor numbers
Starting January 15, visitors can book their spots via the official website, for visits between 9.00 am and 5.00 pm. Reservations will limit access to 300 people at any given time, cutting daily numbers in half. Individuals can secure up to five slots and must maintain an 80% attendance rate to avoid penalties. Exceptions apply to residents of the nearby municipalities of Artenara and Tejeda. These residents will only need basic identification to access the area.
Educational groups and tour operators are also accommodated. Schools will be allocated a maximum of 60 participants daily. Whereas tourism companies will be restricted to 30 people every two hours.
Parking restrictions and shuttle services
To address congestion, parking near Roque Nublo, including the Degollada de la Goleta area, will be prohibited. Alternative parking facilities have been established in Tejeda and Cruz de Los Llanos. Visitors can access the trailhead using shuttle buses managed by Global, Gran Canaria’s public transport provider. The shuttles run every 30 minutes, with travel times varying from 10 minutes (from Cruz de Los Llanos) to 30 minutes (from Tejeda).
Additionally, the Global line 18 bus will offer direct connections from Maspalomas in the island’s south to Roque Nublo three times daily. This will enhance accessibility for tourists and residents alike.
Sustainability and emergency access
The Cabildo’s measures aim to protect Roque Nublo’s fragile ecosystem while avoiding road blockages caused by illegal parking. This ensures emergency vehicles can access the area when needed. Antonio Morales, the island’s president, emphasised that adjustments to the system will be made if necessary. Furthermore, an ecotourism tax is still under consideration for future implementation.
Why do people want to visit Roque Nublo?
Roque Nublo is one of the most iconic natural monuments on Gran Canaria, located in the Tejeda region. It is standing at 67 metres (220 feet) tall and situated at an elevation of 1,813 metres (5,950 feet) above sea level. The impressive volcanic rock formation was created around 4.5 million years ago during a volcanic eruption. The intense heat and subsequent cooling of the lava contributed to its unique hardness and shape.
Surrounded by the protected Rural del Nublo Park, Roque Nublo boasts diverse flora, including pine trees and native plants like sage. Visitors who reach the summit are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views. They can see nearby villages such as La Culata and Ayacata, the Chira dam, and even El Teide volcano on Tenerife on clear days.
Beyond its natural beauty, Roque Nublo holds cultural significance as a symbol of Gran Canaria and a source of inspiration for artists and writers. It is also a popular destination for hikers, with several trails leading to its base, the shortest being a 30-minute hike from La Goleta.