Tourist pressure on this natural enclave in Gran Canaria puts the unique flora and fauna of the Special Reserve at risk. Fines for violating the rules can start at 150 euros.
The Civil Guard, through its SEPRONA unit, and the Gran Canaria Island Council, through its Environmental Agents, have intensified their surveillance and prevention efforts in the Maspalomas Dunes Special Nature Reserve, with the aim of preserving one of the archipelago's most valuable and fragile natural areas.
Human pressure on this ecosystem continues to grow. Every day, between 150 and 300 people trespass into restricted areas of the dunes, especially at dusk, when the number can exceed 500 visitors. This massive presence causes damage to the native vegetation and disrupts the behavior of the fauna that inhabits the area. Despite signage and designated trails, many visitors ignore the regulations when taking photographs, which has necessitated increased surveillance.
In addition to on-site monitoring, the Council has announced additional measures to reduce visitor pressure and promote environmental awareness. These include the installation of sensors to monitor visitor numbers, the placement of information screens at strategic points, a new digital signage system with QR codes, and enhanced environmental monitoring at the lagoon.
The natural wealth of the dunes warrants this special attention. The area is home to plant species such as tamarisks, bay sages, and everlastings, alongside highly valuable birdlife, including terns, plovers, kestrels, and more than 150 species of birds that use this ecosystem to nest in the sand and in the pond. The Civil Guard reminds visitors that access to restricted areas is prohibited and that noncompliance may result in fines starting at €4, as established by Law 2017/XNUMX on Land and Protected Natural Areas of the Canary Islands.
Finally, both the Island Council and the Civil Guard emphasize that the conservation of this natural heritage depends on everyone's involvement. Respecting the signs, heeding the instructions of officers, and using designated areas responsibly are key steps to ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy the Maspalomas Dunes, a natural and cultural icon of Gran Canaria.
