SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE, 29th May (EUROPA PRESS) –
Heading out plans to introduce a pilot initiative this summer, the President of the Cabildo of Tenerife, Rosa Dávila, revealed on Wednesday that the administration will begin charging non-resident tourists for access to natural spaces, starting in the Masca ravine (Buenavista).
During a press briefing to outline the decisions made by the Government Council, Dávila outlined that a tripartite agreement will be finalised involving Buenavista City Council, Puertos de Tenerife, and the Cabildo. This collaboration aims to enhance services and bolster security, which includes the reopening of the pier that had been closed since 2018.
Initially, a daily quota of 275 visitors will be allowed to traverse the ravine, with an annual capacity estimate of 100,000 visitors. Access can be on a self-guided basis or through active tourism agencies, with a designated bus service to manage visitor mobility in the vicinity.
Dávila mentioned that the management of entry fees will be overseen by the public company Tragsa. The fee’s price is yet to be determined, awaiting the formulation of a comprehensive regulation applicable to all natural areas. The implementation of fees in other Tenerife spaces will commence on 1st January.
The President highlighted that this new visitation structure will alleviate congestion within the ravine and reduce the occurrences of accidents and rescue operations. By limiting the number of visitors, it is anticipated to relieve environmental stress.
Additionally, up to four boats, alongside kayaks and canoes, will be permitted to anchor near the pier entrance.
The infrastructure enhancements at the pier involved an investment of 1.6 million Euros, constructing a dock with 46 concrete blocks and a walkway equipped with a boarding platform that can also serve as a helipad.
Furthermore, the Cabildo and City Council have agreed to extend the operational hours of environmental guards, particularly during summer, from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
