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Canary Islands (Spain) Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

There are no notices currently in effect for Canary Islands (Spain).

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Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil
• Avoid floodwater

Clinical Guidance

Airborne & droplet.

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in the Canary Islands, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH)
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in the Canary Islands. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in the Canary Islands include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call the Canary Islands’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of the Canary Islands may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in the Canary Islands, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Canary Islands (Spain) for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.

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Canary Islands latest Spanish hotspots to bring back face mask rules in Covid surge

The Canary Islands are the latest Spanish hotspots to be bringing back face mask rules as Covid and flu case numbers soar across Spain and the islands

• 16:03, 8 Jan 2024
• Updated 16:14, 8 Jan 2024

The Canary Islands , visited by hundreds of thousands of British tourists every year, have joined a list of Spanish hotspots re-introducing some face mask rules amidst Covid and flu cases soaring.

From tomorrow (January 9th), it will be obligatory to use masks in health centres, chemists and hospitals throughout the Canaries which include Tenerife, Lanzarote and Gran Canaria. The Canary government says the rule will remain in force while the epidemic peak lasts.

Up until now, masks were recommended in health centres and hospitals, but from tomorrow they will become mandatory - and will apply to both public and private hospitals across the islands.

It's not just the Canaries which are bringing back face mask rules in hospitals and health centres. Last week the region of Valencia in Spain, which is home to resorts such as Benidorm, re-introduced masks in these health centres. Masks must be worn by symptomatic people in shared spaces, health professionals, staff working in Intensive Care Units or with vulnerable patients, and places where patients are 'concentrated' such as the likes of waiting rooms. 

Currently the rule doesn't apply to all of mainland Spain. In fact, the Spanish health authorities are due to meet in coming days to determine if the measures will be applied to the rest of the country. The Balearic Islands, which include Majorca and Ibiza, are currently refusing to introduce the new rule, saying infection numbers are the same as last year and it is "totally unnecessary" to impose the wearing of masks.

In a statement the Canary government said: "This measure is given given the growth of acute respiratory infections throughout Spain and to try to stop the infection chain, in addition to protecting health professionals and people who go to hospitals and the health centres of the archipelago to avoid them contracting some respiratory infection." 

Currently the UK Foreign Office has not updated its Spain travel advice regarding the Covid and flu epidemic. If you're due to travel to Spain in the coming weeks, make sure to check the latest Foreign Office travel advice for any updates before you head to the airport.

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• Roque Nublo
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The Canary Islands are open to travelers, but here's what you should know about restrictions, weather, and the best time to visit

• If you're planning to visit the Canary Islands, it's important to stay aware of COVID-19 advisories.
• Keep reading for important details as you prepare to explore the Canary Islands.
• Visit Insider's hub for travel guides, tips, and recommendations.

I travel frequently to the Canary Islands and have done so often during the coronavirus pandemic. 

The rules can be confusing and depend greatly on where you'll be arriving from, so make sure to take note if you plan to travel to the European Union first. It's also a good idea to check with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the US Embassy for updates.

I usually check the requirements on the Canary Islands tourism bureau website , which works with the government to update visitors on the rules and regulations for entering. I highly recommend checking the page regularly to ensure you'll be fully prepared.

Do note these policies are current as of this writing but are subject to change at any time. 

Related stories

If you're traveling directly from the US to the Canary Islands, be prepared to show the following:

• A health form , which can be filled out online before traveling. Once completed, you'll get a QR code you can either show printed or digitally to be scanned upon arrival.
• A certificate of full vaccination against COVID-19. Travelers arriving from the US to the Canary Islands, or from the US to the Spanish mainland for tourism purposes, must be fully vaccinated . Accompanying persons between 12 and 17 years old are exempt.
• Passengers aged between 12 and 17 must have a negative PCR test taken a maximum of 72 hours before arrival.
• Antigen tests must be taken a maximum of 24 hours before arrival in Spain and NAAT tests (PCR, TMA, LAMP) taken a maximum of 72 hours before arrival in Spain.

If you plan to visit another European hub before heading to the Canary Islands, make sure to check the requirements for entering that particular country from the United States before traveling.

And if you're visiting the Canaries via mainland Spain and are above the age of 12, you'll have to show either a certificate of full vaccination against COVID-19, a negative COVID-19 test (antigen tests taken a maximum of 48 hours before arrival, and NAAT tests taken a maximum of 72 hours before arrival), or a certificate of recovery confirming that the holder has recovered from COVID-19, issued at least 11 days after the first positive test.

Other key info to know before traveling to the Canary Islands

The volcanic eruption on la palma.

The island of La Palma experienced a volcanic eruption in September 2021 that spewed hot lava and ash over many businesses and residential homes in the immediate area and also temporarily affected the air quality. As of December 25, 2021, the eruption was declared officially over .

All areas outside Cumbre Vieja are safe to visit, as they were not affected by the lava. Though most places are up and running, make sure to check with local businesses or restaurants you'd like to visit that are near Cumbre Vieja in the following areas: El Paso, Los Llanos de Aridane, Tazacorte, Mazo, and Fuencaliente, which could still be affected by volcanic ash.

What to know about weather and what to pack

No matter which island you visit, the sun can be very strong, so pack sunscreen. 

Though it's typically warm at sea level, bring along layers and warm clothing if you plan to hike in the Canaries or visit the Teide volcano — temperatures can vary up to 30 or 40 degrees Fahrenheit at different elevations on all the islands. It may be 40F and raining on Teide , approximately 12,000 feet above sea level, and 74F and sunny down below.

It's also important to know the Canary Islands are windy, especially in summer but really year-round. Whenever there's high pressure over the Sahara, temps rise and humidity falls, creating trade winds that blow over the islands, often at strong speeds midday. This is why the islands are so apt for surfing.

Different islands and areas of each island can have very different wind speeds. Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, and Fuerteventura are usually the windiest islands .  Tenerife and Gran Canaria , especially the southern areas of these islands are usually slightly warmer, less windy, and much sunnier. Plan your vacation accordingly.

The best times to visit the Canary Islands

The Canary Islands have sunny, warm temps year-round and it rarely rains . Winds are generally high year-round, too. It's slightly warmer in the summer when highs hover around 80 degrees Fahrenheit. December highs are about 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

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Traveling to the Canary or Balearic islands in Spain? Here’s what to expect

Mar 24, 2022 • 2 min read

Here's what to expect if you're headed to the Canary or Balearic Islands for a holiday © Getty Images/iStockphoto

Just ahead of welcoming visitors flocking to its islands for the Easter break, the Canaries in Spain  are suspending some COVID-19 safety measures.

The rollback means that restaurants, clubs and other businesses in  Gran Canaria , La Palma and Tenerife  can return to normal operating hours and full capacity. 

"We have tools to control the pandemic. But we remain vigilant. If circumstances worsen, we will reactivate them. It's not the end yet," said President Ángel Victor Torres Pérez of the Canaries  in announcing the rollback of requirements. 

Currently, 78.8% of residents of the Canary Islands are vaccinated against coronavirus. 

The move follows Spain's other popular island destination — the Balearics — also rolling back their COVID-19 requirements.

Here are some of the things to consider if you’re headed to one of these popular Easter-break destinations. 

Travel requirements to enter Spain

To enter Spain, you’ll need to fill out the digital Health Control Form . You’ll also need to present a certificate proving full vaccination if traveling from a non-European Union country. Unvaccinated travelers from outside the European Union and Schengen Zone are not allowed to travel to Spain for non-essential reasons. This includes Americans and British tourists.

In addition, if you’re arriving from a country of high risk , you have to have a COVID-19 test before arriving. Antigen tests must be done 48 hours prior to arrival and PCR tests no more than 72 hours prior to arrival. 

Since February 1, Spain also requires your last dose of your primary regime of the vaccine be within the past 270 days. If it is outside that window, you’ll need to present proof of a booster shot taken no less than 14-days prior. 

Read more: Which of the Canary Islands is best for you? 

Masks still required in many indoor places

Though COVID-19 capacity restrictions have rolled back and masks are no longer required outdoors, tuck one in your pocket because masks are still required in indoor public places.

You may also need to show proof of vaccination to enter some establishments. 

La Palma recovering from the volcano

Along with the COVID-19 pandemic, the island of La Palma is recovering from a natural disaster. The volcanic eruption that started September 19 ended on December 25. The tourism website estimates 10% of the island was impacted by the volcano and is currently trying to reconstruct. 

While the island is open and welcoming visitors, it asks that you respect safety instructions as it rebuilds from the damage done by the volcano. 

For more information on COVID-19 and travel, check out  Lonely Planet's Health Hub .

You might also like: The best time to go to Spain The 10 best beaches in Spain 8 incredible national parks in Spain  

This article was first published Jan 26, 2022 and updated Mar 24, 2022.

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Canary Islands bring back face mask rules as Covid cases surge across Spain

Both Covid and flu is on the rise across Spain and its islands, leading to increased pressures on hospitals

• 08:02, 9 JAN 2024
• Updated 14:21, 9 JAN 2024

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The Canary Islands have joined a growing list of Spanish holiday hotspots introducing face mask rules.

It comes as Covid and flu cases soar across the nation, with hospitalisations on the rise.

As of Tuesday, those visiting the Canaries will have to use masks when visiting health centres, chemists and hospitals - with the Canary government stating that the rules will remain while the peak of the epidemic plays out. Up until now, masks were simply recommended in these settings, but they will now be mandatory in both public and private healthcare facilities across the islands.

It comes after Valencia last week reintroduced the use of masks in health centres. Masks must be worn by symptomatic people in shared spaces, health professionals, staff in ICUs or working with the vulnerable, and places where patients are 'concentrated' like in waiting rooms.

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The Mirror reports that the ruling doesn't apply to all of mainland Spain at the time of writing, but the health authorities are due to meet in the coming days to determine if measures will be rolled out across the rest of the country. The Balearics are currently refusing to impose the rules, citing how infection numbers were the same last year and it is 'totally unnecessary'.

In a statement the Canary government, said: "This measure is given given the growth of acute respiratory infections throughout Spain and to try to stop the infection chain, in addition to protecting health professionals and people who go to hospitals and the health centres of the archipelago to avoid them contracting some respiratory infection."

The UK Foreign Office is yet to update its guidance for travel to Spain regarding the ongoing epidemic of Covid and flu. If you're set to travel in the coming weeks, you should check the latest advice before heading to the airport.

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Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Dial 112 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance or medical assistance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccine recommendations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip:

• check the latest vaccine recommendations for Spain
• see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

See what health risks you’ll face in Spain , including:

• biting insects and ticks

Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Spain. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro .

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries. There are details in the guide to getting healthcare in Spain .

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro .

Healthcare in Spain

FCDO has a list of medical providers in Spain where some staff will speak English.

Health insurance cards

To get medically necessary state healthcare in Spain, you need a Global Health Insurance Card ( GHIC ) or a European Health Insurance Card ( EHIC ). 

The NHS’s getting healthcare abroad webpage has details about:

• how to apply for a GHIC
• how to get temporary cover if you lose your card or it does not arrive in time
• who qualifies for a new EHIC instead of a GHIC
• what treatment counts as medically necessary

A GHIC or EHIC is not an alternative to travel insurance. You may have costs your GHIC or EHIC does not cover, including:

• changes to travel and accommodation bookings
• additional standard costs for treatment
• medical repatriation to the UK
• treatment that is ruled non-urgent

There is more guidance on healthcare if you’re visiting Spain . There is also guidance on healthcare if you’re living in Spain .

Hospital treatment

If you need hospital treatment in Spain, you’re more likely to receive appropriate care in public healthcare facilities. However, in some tourist areas there may not be any public healthcare facilities nearby. Your insurance or medical assistance company will be able to provide further details.

Some hotels may call private doctors or ambulances to take patients to private hospitals. The GHIC or EHIC will not be accepted there.

Use of face masks

Due to an increase in respiratory infections such as flu and COVID-19, you may have to wear a face mask at doctors’ surgeries, hospitals and pharmacies. Rules on face masks may vary by region. Follow the advice of the local authorities and make sure you are aware of the measures in place.

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health . There is also guidance on TravelHealthPro .

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Canary Islands Covid rules for travel from Heathrow Airport and other UK airports to Tenerife, Gran Canaria and more

The Canary Islands follow the same Covid rules as Spain

• 08:06, 29 JUN 2022
• Updated 08:20, 29 JUN 2022

The Canary Islands are volcanic isles known for their black and white sandy beaches in the Spanish region. The seven islands vary in size and are called Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, La Palma, La Gomera and El Hierro.

The Canaries are known for being the sunshine centre of Europe as they boast natural attractions, diverse cultures and breathtaking views. What's not to love?

There's no wonder why the islands are a popular holiday destination for us Brits as they are only a short flight from home. Before jumping on a flight from Heathrow or other UK airports, it is worth familiarising yourself with the latest coronavirus rules.

READ MORE: Bangladesh travel requirements from Heathrow and other UK airports

British Airways operates flights directly from Heathrow to Tenerife. Flights to the islands are also available from nearby Gatwick Airport.

The Canary Islands follow the same rules as Spain as they are within the Spanish region. There are various rules still in place for those wanting to visit the islands.

What are the Canary Islands entry requirements?

If you're fully vaccinated, you will be able to enter Spain or the Canary Islands if you have received two doses of a two-dose vaccine or one dose of a single-dose vaccine approved for by Spanish authorities. This is only valid if you have had the dose at least 14 days prior to arrival and received the last dose no more than 270 days ago.

If you have not been fully vaccinated or can't show proof, you may still travel to the Canaries if you can show certification of having completed a negative rapid antigen test 24 hours prior to arrival or a PCR test 72 hours prior to arrival. You can also visit if you show documentation of Covid recovery within the past six months.

Are there any Covid rules in the Canaries?

Rules can change last minute so stay up to date with the latest updates. Foreign Office travel advice states: "You should continue to observe the following rules regardless of your whereabouts in Spain:

• obligatory use of face masks on public transport, in pharmacies, medical centres and care homes
• abide by any safety measures put in place by establishments such as hotels, bars, shops and restaurants to reduce the risk of COVID-19 such as social distancing and other public safety precautions
• wash your hands frequently and thoroughly and use hand sanitizer gel where soap and water is not available"

Face masks are mandatory for everyone over the age of 6 and must be worn on public transport, in a healthcare setting or visiting a nursing home. The Spanish government also recommends you to wear a mask in other spaces including large events, enclosed public spaces and at family gatherings.

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Canary Islands travel advice

Explore our complete guide to Canary Islands with the latest travel advice for travellers and holidaymakers including official updates and local travel tips for the Canary Islands.

• Essential travel guide
• Weather & climate
• Travel health
• Covid live updates
• Travel features
• Top travel deals
• Destinations

Canary Islands travel guide - essential info

Below is a beginner's guide to the Canary Islands with essential travel facts such as dominant language spoken, typical flight time from the UK and the local currency. You can also check whether visas are required and what plug adapter you need to pack.

Why visit the Canary Islands?

Considering a holiday to the the Canary Islands? Here are some of the very good reasons it makes such a wonderful holiday destination be it for beaches or nature to ensure you get the most out of your 2024/2025 escape.

Canary Islands tourist information

✝ = Typical flight time from the UK.

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Canary Islands weather

The Canary Islands weather guide shows long term monthly averages for Santa Cruz de Tenerife .

Canary Islands destinations >>

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Destination Any destination Algarve Costa Blanca Costa del Sol Crete Croatia Cyprus Egypt Florida Fuerteventura Gran Canaria Ibiza Italy Lanzarote Madeira Majorca Malta Rhodes Santorini Tenerife Thailand Turkey Zante Africa North Africa Cape Verde Egypt Gambia Kenya Morocco Senegal Tanzania Tunisia Asia Far East South East Asia Southern Asia India Indonesia Jordan Oman Qatar Sri Lanka Thailand UAE Austrian Alps Formentera Ibiza Majorca Menorca Ontario Quebec Fuerteventura Gran Canaria La Gomera La Palma Lanzarote Tenerife Caribbean Antigua Aruba Bahamas Barbados Cuba Curacao Dominican Republic Grenada Jamaica St Lucia Trinidad and Tobago Central America Costa Rica Red Sea Europe Austria Belgium Croatia Cyprus Czech Republic Denmark Finland France Germany Gibraltar Greece Hungary Iceland Italy Jersey Lapland Luxembourg Malta Monaco Netherlands North Macedonia Norway Poland Portugal Romania Slovenia Spain Sweden Switzerland Turkey Alps Orlando South of France Corfu Crete Halkidiki Kefalonia Kos Lefkas Mykonos Naxos Paros Paxos Peloponnese Rhodes Samos Santorini Skiathos Skopelos Thassos Zante Goa Indian Ocean Maldives Mauritius Seychelles Bali Lombok Calabria Campania Italian Lakes Italian Riviera Sardinia Sicily Tuscany Venetian Riviera Dolomites Puglia Mediterranean Caribbean Coast Middle East North America Canada Mexico USA Algarve Madeira Scandinavia Balearic Islands Canary Islands Costa Almeria Costa Blanca Costa Brava Costa de la Luz Costa del Sol Costa Dorada Swiss Alps Antalya Coast Bodrum and Izmir Coast Dalaman and Marmaris Coast Dubai California D.C. Florida Illinois Louisiana Massachusetts Nevada New York

Check the latest travel advice on visiting the Canary Islands from official government sources (in english) from around the world including entry requirements and travel restrictions.

• UK traveller advice for the Canary Islands - UK FCDO
• Irish traveller advice for the Canary Islands - Department of Foreign Affairs, Ireland
• Canadian travel advice for the Canary Islands - Government of Canada
• US travel advisories for the Canary Islands - US Department of State
• Safe travel advisories for the Canary Islands - Ministry of Foreign Affairs, New Zealand
• Smarter traveller advice for the Canary Islands - Department of Foreign Affairs, Australia

Learn more about the current safety and security risks from terrorism, natural disasters and more. Read about the local laws and customs to consider when travelling around the Canary Islands.

Note : UK FCDO - UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

FCDO travel advice

Destination Any destination France Germany Greece India Italy Portugal Spain Turkey USA Algeria Angola Benin Botswana Burkina Faso Burundi Cameroon Cape Verde Central African Republic Chad Congo-Brazzaville Congo-Kinshasa Djibouti Egypt Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Eswatini Ethiopia Gabon Gambia Ghana Guinea Guinea-Bissau Ivory Coast Kenya Lesotho Liberia Libya Malawi Mali Mauritania Morocco Mozambique Namibia Niger Nigeria Rwanda Sao Tome and Principe Senegal Sierra Leone Somalia South Africa South Sudan St Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha Sudan Tanzania Togo Tunisia Uganda Western Sahara Zambia Zimbabwe Falkland Islands South Georgia and South Sandwich Islands Afghanistan Armenia Azerbaijan Bahrain Bangladesh Bhutan Brunei Cambodia China East Timor Gaza Strip Georgia Hong Kong India Indonesia Iran Iraq Israel Japan Jordan Kazakhstan Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Laos Lebanon Macau Malaysia Maldives Mongolia Myanmar Nepal North Korea Oman Pakistan Philippines Qatar Russia (Central Asia) Russia (Far East) Saudi Arabia Singapore South Korea Sri Lanka Syria Taiwan Tajikistan Thailand Turkmenistan UAE Uzbekistan Vietnam West Bank Yemen Anguilla Antigua Aruba Bahamas Barbados Bonaire British Virgin Islands Cayman Islands Cuba Curacao Dominica Dominican Republic Grenada Guadeloupe Haiti Jamaica Martinique Montserrat Saba Sint Eustatius Sint Maarten St Barthelemy St Kitts and Nevis St Lucia St Martin St Vincent and the Grenadines Trinidad and Tobago Turks and Caicos Islands Belize Costa Rica El Salvador Guatemala Honduras Nicaragua Panama Albania Andorra Austria Belarus Belgium Bosnia and Herzegovina Bulgaria Croatia Cyprus Czech Republic Denmark Estonia Faroe Islands Finland France Germany Gibraltar Greece Hungary Iceland Ireland Italy Jan Mayen Kosovo Latvia Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Macedonia Malta Moldova Monaco Montenegro Netherlands Norway Poland Portugal Romania Russia San Marino Serbia Slovakia Slovenia Spain Svalbard Sweden Switzerland Turkey Ukraine British Indian Ocean Territory Comoros Madagascar Mauritius Mayotte Reunion Seychelles Bermuda Canada Greenland Mexico St Pierre and Miquelon USA Australia Federated States of Micronesia Fiji French Polynesia Kiribati Marshall Islands Nauru New Caledonia New Zealand Palau Papua New Guinea Pitcairn Island Samoa Solomon Islands Tonga Tuvalu Vanuatu Wallis and Futuna Argentina Bolivia Brazil Chile Colombia Ecuador French Guiana Guyana Paraguay Peru Suriname Uruguay Venezuela

Canary Islands travel health

Find out more about staying safe when travelling to the Canary Islands with the latest guidance on required vaccinations and recommended medication to take with you.

• Vaccines & medicines for the Canary Islands - CDC
• Health & vaccinations for the Canary Islands - TravelHealthPro, NaTHNac
• How to stay safe & healthy in the Canary Islands - Fit for Travel, Public Health Scotland

Check out the general travel tips for staying safe and healthy in the Canary Islands, risks of preventable diseases and what to pack.

Note : CDC - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Canary Islands covid live updates

Check the latest live updates on Covid-19 in the Canary Islands with the vaccination requirements, current available statistics and up-to-date travel advice from government agencies.

• Travellers' health for the Canary Islands - Ministry of Health, Spain
• Coronavirus timeline in the Canary Islands - Our World in Data
• Latest info on travel to the Canary Islands - Canary Islands Tourism

Canary Islands travel features

Do you want to learn more about the Canary Islands? Read our latest features covering travel tips and insider destination guides on where to go and what to do in the Canary Islands.

Canary Islands FAQs

Read our frequently asked questions about travelling to the Canary Islands including the current entry restrictions, covid rules, driving side, electrical plugs used and much more.

Are there entry restrictions to the Canary Islands due to Covid-19?

Canary Islands is open for tourism from the UK. There are no special entry requirements for the Canary Islands. Check out Ministry of Health, Spain for more information.

Do I need to quarantine in the UK if I travel from the Canary Islands?

You do not need to quarantine on arrival in the UK from the Canary Islands. The UK no longer requires a passenger locator form, Covid-19 test or proof of vaccination.

What is the flight time to the Canary Islands from the UK?

The flight time to the Canary Islands from the UK is typically 4 to 5 hours .

Flights to the Canary Islands

What is the time difference between the Canary Islands and the UK?

The time difference between the Canary Islands and the UK is UK time+0 to UK time+1 hours .

What is the main language spoken in the Canary Islands?

The main language spoken in the Canary Islands is Spanish . Learn a language for the Canary Islands with Rosetta Stone * , Babbel * and Mondly * .

What is the currency in the Canary Islands?

The currency in the Canary Islands is the Euro ( EUR ). Send money to the Canary Islands with TransferGo * and XE Money Transfers * .

Which plugs are used in the Canary Islands?

Canary Islands uses electrical plug type C (230 Volts) .

Which side of the road do they drive on in the Canary Islands?

They drive on the right side of the road in the Canary Islands. Find out more about driving in Spain with RAC * , International Drivers Association * and Halfords * .

Transport options for the Canary Islands

Travel advice by country

Country name All countries - summary Algarve Balearic Islands Barbados Canary Islands Croatia Cyprus Egypt Faroe Islands France Germany Greece Ireland Italy Jamaica Madeira Maldives Malta Portugal Spain Turkey UAE UK USA Algeria Angola Benin Botswana Burkina Faso Burundi Cameroon Cape Verde Central African Republic Chad Congo-Brazzaville Congo-Kinshasa Djibouti Egypt Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Ethiopia Gabon Gambia Ghana Guinea Guinea-Bissau Ivory Coast Kenya Lesotho Liberia Libya Malawi Mali Mauritania Morocco Mozambique Namibia Niger Nigeria Rwanda Sao Tome and Principe Senegal Sierra Leone Somalia South Africa South Sudan Sudan Swaziland Tanzania Togo Tunisia Uganda Western Sahara Zambia Zimbabwe Antarctica French Southern and Antarctic Lands South Georgia and South Sandwich Islands Afghanistan Armenia Azerbaijan Bahrain Bangladesh Bhutan Brunei Cambodia China East Timor Georgia Hong Kong India Indonesia Iran Iraq Israel Japan Jordan Kazakhstan Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Laos Lebanon Macau Malaysia Maldives Mongolia Myanmar Nepal North Korea Oman Pakistan Philippines Qatar Russia (Central Asia) Russia (Far East) Saudi Arabia Singapore South Korea Sri Lanka Syria Taiwan Tajikistan Thailand Turkmenistan UAE Uzbekistan Vietnam Yemen Anguilla Antigua Aruba Bahamas Barbados Bonaire British Virgin Islands Cayman Islands Cuba Curacao Dominica Dominican Republic Grenada Guadeloupe Haiti Jamaica Martinique Montserrat Puerto Rico Saba Sint Eustatius Sint Maarten St Barthelemy St Kitts and Nevis St Lucia St Martin St Vincent and the Grenadines Trinidad and Tobago Turks and Caicos Virgin Islands Belize Costa Rica El Salvador Guatemala Honduras Nicaragua Panama Albania Andorra Austria Belarus Belgium Bosnia and Herzegovina Bulgaria Croatia Cyprus Czech Republic Denmark Estonia Faroe Islands Finland France Germany Gibraltar Greece Guernsey Hungary Iceland Ireland Isle of Man Italy Jan Mayen Jersey Kosovo Latvia Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Malta Moldova Monaco Montenegro Netherlands North Macedonia Norway Poland Portugal Romania Russia San Marino Serbia Slovakia Slovenia Spain Svalbard Sweden Switzerland Turkey UK Ukraine British Indian Ocean Territory Christmas Island Cocos (Keeling) Islands Comoros Madagascar Mauritius Mayotte Reunion Seychelles Bermuda Canada Greenland Mexico St Pierre and Miquelon USA American Samoa Australia Cook Islands Federated States of Micronesia Fiji French Polynesia Guam Kiribati Marshall Islands Midway Island Nauru New Caledonia New Zealand Niue Norfolk Island Northern Mariana Islands Palau Papua New Guinea Pitcairn Island Samoa Solomon Islands Tokelau Tonga Tuvalu Vanuatu Wake Island Wallis and Futuna Algarve Azores Madeira Argentina Bolivia Brazil Chile Colombia Ecuador Falkland Islands French Guiana Guyana Paraguay Peru Suriname Uruguay Venezuela Balearic Islands Canary Islands England Northern Ireland Scotland Wales Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut D.C. Delaware Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming

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Spanish island relaxes more Covid rules from today

• Josie Klein
• Published : 9:18, 4 Mar 2022
• Updated : 12:32, 4 Mar 2022

GRAN Canaria has relaxed more of its Covid restrictions today, making it easier for people to socialise.

The Canary Island was on the highest level of Covid alert - Level 4 - but as of midnight this morning, it has been reduced to Level 3.

The change means that groups of up to 12 people can sit at a table in a restaurant in Gran Canaria , compared to just eight under Level 4 rules.

Hospitality venues, such as restaurants and bars, can stay open until 4am instead of 3am and nightclubs can operate at 100 per cent capacity outside, compared to 75 per cent.

Gran Canaria follows in the footsteps of Tenerife and La Palma which were downgraded from Level 4 to Level 3 last month.

The change will come as good news to Brits with plans to go to the Spanish island in the coming weeks.

The Canaries have been operating under a  traffic light system  since the  pandemic  began, depending on case numbers and hospital occupancy.

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But now, the general director of Public Health José Juan Alemán has revealed the traffic light system will "disappear before long".

As reported in  local media , he told Spanish radio station COPE Radio: "Before long the traffic light of alert levels in the Canary Islands is going to disappear."

Additionally, Spain has changed its entry requirements to allow some unvaccinated Brits to enter.

People who recovered from Covid within the last 180 days are now able to visit Spain, even if they've only had one of zero jabs.

The news will be welcomed by unvaccinated Brits with plans to head abroad during the  Easter holidays .

Spain has also relaxed some other Covid travel rules in time for Easter, as the  Balearic Islands  have  ended most of their restrictions  due to an improvement in Covid cases.

And it's not just Spain relaxing Covid restrictions - Dubai  no longer requires tests  from vaccinated arrivals along with  Italy  and  Cyprus .

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