Routes in motor homes.

Coming up with your own routes in motor homes is an original way of getting to know the Canary Island archipelago. This is why we want to share some important information to help you decide whether you want to plan your trip this way. Not sure where to travel with your motor home in Spain? Don’t worry, we’ll help you figure it out.

The best way to visit the Canary Islands: routes in motor homes or rent one on the island.

Your expectations and the type of trip you want to take will play a major role in deciding what option you choose for getting around the island. A motor home will give you the greatest degree of freedom, since you won’t have to stay in a hotel. This opens up the possibility of getting to know unique and secluded places that you otherwise wouldn’t be able to stay in.

What’s more, you’ll save significantly on accommodation and have greater flexibility to make your own decisions. Say goodbye to strict schedules – you alone decide where and when you want to sleep.

On the other hand, rented vehicles tend to come at a very high price, especially if you decide to rent during peak season. The main advantage is that you don’t have to transport them here, and you don’t need to worry about maintenance either. So you can simply focus on enjoying the driving.

How can I travel around the islands in a motor home?

In order for your trip to be a success, we recommend that you plan your route in advance. One of the most interesting islands for this experience is Fuerteventura. Its geography features incredible coastal ports and little inland villages that are sure to surprise you. Without a doubt, this is one of the best routes for motor homes in Spain.

If you’re planning on spending the night at a campsite, it’s important to make a reservation. The island is very popular with tourists at Easter as well as during the summer, so this will ensure you’re not caught out by surprise. Once you’ve finished visiting the island of Fuerteventura, we recommend travelling to Lanzarote by ferry. There, you’ll discover more fascinating places.

What’s more, along your route throughout the archipelago, you’ll come across many different kinds of roads. Although the Canary Islands do have convenient motorways, the majority of the islands consist of small coastal towns connected by local roads. These roads are narrow and, due to the terrain, are often full of curves. Therefore we recommend you drive extra carefully.

Where can I camp without a permit in Gran Canaria?

If you visit Gran Canaria, you’re sure to want to find a place where you can stay. Free camping is prohibited, as it is throughout the rest of Spain. However, it is possible to get permission from the Island Council to spend the night in certain designated areas. In fact, it is recommended you obtain this in order to avoid fees.

And you should definitely go prepared, because in many places, you won’t find toilets or even drinking water supplies.

One of these places is the beach of El Confital. This sandy spot is very close to the city of Las Palmas and the area for motor homes is very extensive. Another option is at Tamadaba Natural Park. This place situated high in the mountains has a huge area of land in which you can camp free of charge.

If you have a digital certificate, you can request your camping permit electronically via the internet. This will save you the trip to the Council and you’ll arrive at your destination with the request already approved.

How do I ensure the motor home doesn’t get too hot?

The Canary Islands boast very pleasant temperatures all year round. Nonetheless, the heat can be suffocating in closed spaces during summer, meaning that travelling around Spain by motor home also has its downsides. Luckily, there are several alternatives that will help you keep a cool environment inside your little home:

The main thing is to avoid the sun at all costs. Whenever you have the option, we recommend parking in the shade of a tree. If this isn’t possible, there are large sun canopies that reflect the sunlight. You can set one up over the vehicle to prevent the sun from getting through.
It’s also important that all the windows have curtains or blinds. As soon as the sun starts to appear, it’s crucial you lower these to ensure the heat doesn’t get in, and keep the windows open so that the air can circulate. Then once the sun sets, open each blind as much as you can so that the cabin can cool down rapidly.
If you have a connection to an electric current, one very handy option is to use a portable air conditioner. This will allow you to maintain a cool temperature no matter how hot it gets outside.
Try not to cook inside the motor home. If you do, this could increase the temperature by several degrees, especially in summer.

Where can I sleep in a motor home in La Palma?

The island of La Palma is one of the most beautiful in the archipelago. It features one-of-a-kind natural scenery of volcanic origin as well as important forests of Canary Island pine. What’s more, it offers the option to legally stay the night in your motor home in the designated sites.

One of the most popular sites is the El Pilar recreation area. You’ll find a comfortable camping area and public bathrooms where you can wash and shower. It also provides tables that are ideal for eating lunch or dinner.

Another option we suggest is the campsite at San Antonio del Monte. Its prices are very competitive and there, you can avail of hot water, a connection to electricity and some incredible views.

If you prefer, opt for some of the island’s areas specifically designated for parking motor homes. These aren’t campsites, but it’s not a problem to spend the night there. Some of the most popular sites are the public carpark at Tazacorte or the parking spots at the Puerto Naos beach.

As you can see, there is an abundance of routes for motor homes you can discover on the archipelago. Follow these tips to stay cool and find plenty of great places to sleep.

We hope you enjoy the Canary Islands as much as we do!