Carnaval is here! With it comes an explosion of colour, music, and community across Tenerife.
From the spectacular parades in Santa Cruz to the vibrant street celebrations in towns across Tenerife, Carnival is more than an event. It’s a living cultural tradition. Tenerife Carnival is often described as one of the largest and most spectacular carnivals in the world. But beyond the glitter and grand stages lies something deeper: heritage, craftsmanship, and collective joy. It’s culture in motion.
At Canary Green, we believe that experiencing local traditions is an essential part of sustainable tourism in Tenerife. Cultural events like Carnival strengthen community bonds, support local artists, musicians, designers, and small businesses, and keep traditions alive. However, large celebrations also come with responsibility.
If you’re joining Carnival as a visitor, here are a few simple ways to celebrate consciously:
Respect local customs and community spaces
Avoid excessive waste by bringing reusable bottles where possible
Dispose litter properly
Support local food vendors and small businesses
Use public transport or walk when possible
Celebrate with care and consideration for residents
Responsible travel in the Canary Islands doesn’t mean missing out but participating with awareness. Carnival reminds us that sustainability is not only about nature and landscapes. It is also about preserving culture, supporting communities, and ensuring traditions can continue for generations to come.
Dress up. Dance. Celebrate. And do it in a way that honours the island and the people who call it home.
Canary Green’s tips to enjoying sustainable tourism in Canary Islands
Visiting Canary Islands on holiday doesn’t give you free rein to leave your values and principles at home. We encourage travellers to seek out sustainable options and keep up with environmental practices while travelling. Our top tips for a relaxed and wholesome stay include:
- Consider green transport options. Are you able to take a ferry to the island instead of flying? While you are here is a car necessary? Investigate public transport links or choose green options such as electric cars, green-hydrogen cars or e-bikes.
- Choose destinations that value sustainability and choose green alternatives such as solar power, recycling and energy-efficient architecture. This extends to places that value workers’ rights and the impact on the local community.
- Bring your own water bottle with you and refill it instead of buying single-use plastic bottles.
- Make use of the recycling when out and about and don’t just throw your rubbish in the nearest bin.
- Take advantage of local knowledge and immerse yourself in the culture through campaigns such as #Ilovecanarias and #meatfreemondaycanarias.
- Most of all, have fun and enjoy your time in the Canary Islands.
Thank you
Thank you to everyone involved in this Canary Green project where our aim is to help promote sustainable tourism in the Canary Islands.
Do you want us to find you more sustainable choices? Please support us and donate today!
- John Beckley; Founder of Canary Green non profit
- Canary Green non profit:
- Photographers & Videomakers: Aurora Bus
- Social Media & Partnership management: Aurora Bus
- Marine & coastal project manager: Daphne Geißen
Connect with Canary Green
Support Sustainability in the Canaries
Ready to turn your values into action?
Discover how you can travel better, support the Canary Islands, and unlock exclusive green perks.