The president of the Cabildo of Tenerife, Rosa Dávila, revealed on Wednesday that a new measure will be introduced this summer as a trial in the Masca ravine (Buenavista) to charge non-resident tourists for access to natural spaces on the island.
During a press conference to announce the decisions of the Government Council, she mentioned the upcoming agreement between the Buenavista City Council, Puertos de Tenerife, and the Cabildo. This agreement aims to enhance services and improve security, including the reopening of the pier which has been closed since 2018.
Initially, a maximum daily limit of 275 visitors will be imposed for trips through the ravine, with an estimated capacity of 100,000 visitors per year. Visitors can explore independently or through active tourism companies, and a bus service will be available to manage access to the area.
The president stated that the resources of the public company Tragsa will be utilised to oversee the entrance fee, which is yet to be determined pending the establishment of a general regulation for all natural spaces. The fee for other natural sites on the island is set to be implemented starting from January 1.
This new visitation model aims to reduce the number of round trips within the ravine, minimise accidents and rescue operations, and alleviate environmental strain by restricting visitor numbers.
Additionally, up to four boats along with kayaks and canoes will be permitted to dock at the pier’s entrance.
The pier’s construction involved an investment of 1.6 million euros to construct a dock with 46 concrete blocks, a promenade, and a boarding platform which can also serve as a helipad.
The Cabildo and City Council have also agreed to extend the hours of environmental guards, with patrols operating from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. during the summer.