Traveling to the Canary Islands: What You Need to Know
With Spain’s international borders scheduled to reopen on 21 June to EU and Schengen-area countries, and on 1 July to most others (depending on individual public health situations), the sun-soaked Canary Islands are at the forefront of welcoming back foreign travelers. The islands have implemented creative plans that focus on safe, sustainable, and enjoyable trips for visitors while collaborating with tourism operators and local communities.
Current Health Situation
The Canary Islands have experienced relatively few COVID-19 cases, which have been effectively managed. As of the latest reports, there have been only 2300 cases and 161 deaths since 1 February in a population exceeding two million. The remote islands of El Hierro and Isla Graciosa have reported no COVID-19 cases at all. These islands, along with La Gomera and the Balearic island of Formentera, were the first Spanish regions to move into phase one of the official desescalada (de-escalation) of lockdown in early May. Most of Spain, including the Canaries, is anticipated to transition into the post-lockdown nueva normalidad (new normality) on 21 June.
Travel Arrangements
Most international flights to the Canary Islands from various parts of Europe are expected to restart in late June or early July. Wizz Air has already resumed flights to Tenerife and Gran Canaria from London Luton. Additionally, Ryanair plans to reinstate 40% of its schedule starting July, including flights to and from Tenerife, Fuerteventura, and Gran Canaria.
Important safety-focused changes to flying may include mandatory face masks, social distancing, and temperature checks. The Canary Islands are also collaborating with the United Nations World Tourism Organization to trial the world’s first digital health passport on a ‘safe flight’ from Madrid in early July.
Health and Safety Protocols for Travelers
All travelers—regardless of their departure location—are strongly encouraged to take a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19 48 to 72 hours before traveling. Though not mandatory, those who take the test will benefit from fast-tracking through arrivals and receive vouchers to redeem at local businesses. Temperature checks will also be conducted for all passengers upon arrival and departure.
If an arriving traveler tests positive for COVID-19, they will be placed in independent accommodation for quarantine or admitted to a hospital for treatment at no cost. The rest of their traveling group will also be tested, and if needed, the entire group can isolate together. The islands have established a ‘traffic light’ alert system designed to respond quickly in the event of a second COVID-19 wave, ensuring local hospitals are prepared to provide healthcare for any traveler in need.
Moreover, face masks are now mandatory in all public spaces where social distancing is not possible, and this requirement is expected to continue after the state of alarm concludes on 21 June.
Hospitality Sector Updates
Hotels in the Canary Islands received permission to reopen as of early May. Currently, many hotels are preparing to welcome guests with an aim for around 50% capacity this summer. Under phase three of reopening, restaurants and bars are allowed to operate at 75% capacity on terraces and serve food and drinks indoors (with 50% capacity) while maintaining a social distance of 1.5 meters. These protocols are expected to remain as part of the nueva normalidad, with added safety measures such as temperature checks.
Individual accommodations will be assessed on a case-by-case basis, encouraging tailored solutions that prioritize social distancing. Enhanced cleaning procedures, modified buffet breakfasts featuring protective screens, and spaced-out sunbeds are expected. Self-catering apartments and villas are anticipated to be particularly popular this year, offering a safe and independent travel option.
Public Transport Availability
Binter Canarias, the main inter-island airline, is currently operating 62 flights daily. Canaryfly is set to resume operations on 1 July. Ferries have been equipped with hand-sanitizer dispensers, social-distanced seating, and improved air filtration systems. Major ferry companies such as Fred Olsen and Naviera Armas are also up and running again. Bus services will operate at 50% capacity to ensure adequate social distancing.
Outdoor Activities and Attractions
Beaches across the islands have been allowed to reopen since entering phase two in May, allowing visitors to enjoy activities such as surfing in the Atlantic waves. The natural beauty of the islands is a significant part of their allure, and tourism authorities aim to avoid installing plastic screen dividers, prioritizing two-meter social distancing instead. Popular beach locations like Lanzarote’s Caleta de Famara and Fuerteventura’s Parque Natural de Jandía afford ample space for social distancing, while access to smaller beaches may be regulated.
Museums, galleries, and markets have reopened at 50% capacity, along with many scenic walking trails—making independent outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling an appealing option for visitors in 2020. For the latest developments, be sure to check the Canary Islands Tourism website.
