Tenerife Closes Ten Forest Trails Ahead of Candelaria Pilgrimage Due to Fire Risk

Tenerife’s Island Council is closing ten forest trails ahead of the upcoming Virgin of Candelaria festivities to protect public safety and the island’s natural environment. The decision aims to reduce the risk of wildfires during this period of high climate vulnerability and prevent large crowds from gathering in areas that are difficult to evacuate.

The closures begin this Thursday at 6:00 p.m. and will remain in effect as long as the regional government’s forest fire alert persists. The restrictions affect five ascent routes in the north and five descent routes in the south, all of which typically see heavy foot traffic during the pilgrimage.

Council President Rosa Dávila stated that the safety of citizens is the priority. Councilor Blanca Pérez added that limiting access to these areas is necessary due to the current adverse weather conditions across the archipelago.

To manage the flow of pilgrims traveling to Candelaria, authorities are urging the public to use only the "Camino Viejo" (Old Path), which begins at the Machado hermitage in El Rosario. This route is intended to keep the pilgrimage organized and safe.

The Island Council has the legal authority to restrict access to these natural spaces during emergency situations or high fire risk. The duration of the closures will depend on changing weather conditions and guidance from emergency services in the coming days.