Canary Islands close outdoor attractions as Storm Bruna hits
All outdoor natural areas across the Canary Islands are closed until further notice as Storm Bruna triggers orange alerts. The closures start on November 8, 2026 and affect tourists and residents on the islands.
In this story
At a glance
- What changes
- All outdoor natural areas, hiking trails and campsites are closed
- Timing
- Effective from November 8 2026
- Who is affected
- Tourists and residents on the Canary Islands
The details
- Announced by
- Spanish Met Office AEMET
- Takes effect
- November 8, 2026
- Previous rule
- Outdoor attractions such as hiking paths, campsites and natural parks were open to visitors.
- New rule
- All outdoor natural areas are now legally prohibited for access until further notice.
Alert and Restrictions
The Spanish Met Office AEMET has issued orange alerts for the entire archipelago as Storm Bruna brings torrential rain, hurricane‑force winds and high sea surges. In response, the island governments (Cabildos) have ordered a complete shutdown of outdoor tourism activities.
- Every forest track, hiking path and mountain trail is off‑limits
- Campsites, picnic spots and outdoor recreation areas are evacuated and barricaded
- Permits for canyoning, rock climbing and commercial filming are suspended
Areas Affected
The western islands, especially La Palma, face the most severe conditions, but orange alerts cover Tenerife, Gran Canaria, La Gomera, El Hierro and the eastern islands of Lanzarote, Fuerteventura and La Graciosa. All protected natural zones across these islands are included in the lockdown.
- Iconic hikes such as Barranco de Masca and Barranco del Infierno are closed
- Coastal promenades, breakwaters and natural rock pools are prohibited
- Roads prone to flash flooding are advised against travelling
Guidelines for Visitors
The Canary Islands Directorate‑General for Emergencies has issued mandatory safety directives for all international travellers, including those from the United Kingdom. The focus is on staying indoors, avoiding water and ravines, and keeping communication devices charged.
- Stay away from seafront areas and any water‑related structures
- Do not approach or cross riverbeds, even if they appear dry
- Cancel all non‑essential travel and avoid driving on flooded roads
- Keep mobile phones fully charged and monitor local updates
What this means for travellers
Trip planning
- Existing bookings for guided hikes, canyoning or outdoor tours are cancelled until the lockdown ends
- Travel itineraries that included visits to natural parks must be revised or postponed
- Visitors should check accommodation policies for possible refunds or re‑booking options
Cost and documents
- No new fees are introduced by the closures
- Travel insurance policies may need to be reviewed for weather‑related coverage
- No additional documentation is required to remain on the islands
What you need to do
- Follow the orange‑alert instructions issued by AEMET and local authorities
- Avoid all outdoor activities and stay within hotel or indoor facilities
- Keep a fully charged mobile phone and monitor the 112 emergency number for updates
Who this affects
-
UK tourists in the Canary Islands
The Directorate‑General for Emergencies issued specific survival directives for UK visitors.
What to do Must stay indoors, avoid water and ravines, and cancel non‑essential travel.
-
International travelers on the islands
All foreign visitors are subject to the same orange‑alert restrictions.
What to do Must comply with the lockdown of outdoor areas and follow safety guidelines.
-
Residents of the Canary Islands
Local emergency services have ordered a full shutdown of outdoor recreation for public safety.
What to do Must remain indoors unless essential and heed all official warnings.
Frequently asked questions
Are hiking trails in the Canary Islands open during Storm Bruna?
No, all hiking trails, including famous routes like Barranco de Masca, are closed until further notice because of orange alerts and safety concerns.
When did the outdoor closures start?
The closures became effective on November 8, 2026, when the Spanish Met Office AEMET issued orange alerts for the entire archipelago.
What should UK tourists do during the storm?
UK tourists must stay indoors, avoid any water‑related areas, cancel non‑essential travel, keep phones charged and monitor local authority updates.
Will I be refunded for cancelled outdoor tours?
The announcement does not mention refunds; travellers should contact their tour operators or accommodation providers to discuss re‑booking or compensation.
Are there any new travel documents required because of the storm?
No additional travel documents are required; the changes only involve safety restrictions and the suspension of outdoor activities.
