Health & Safety
Health
Gran Canaria has a good healthcare system (part of the Spanish Sistema Nacional de Salud). No special vaccinations required—standard vaccinations (tetanus, diphtheria) should be up to date. The EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) from your health insurance is accepted in public health centers. Nevertheless, travel health insurance (from 10€/trip) is recommended, especially for hiking and water sports.
Sun & Heat
The UV radiation on Gran Canaria is intense—stronger than in Germany, even with clouds and wind. The most common health issues for tourists:
- Sunburn: Apply sunscreen SPF 50+, even with clouds. Avoid midday sun (12–4 PM). Wear a hat and sunglasses.
- Heatstroke: For summer hikes: at least 1.5 liters of water per person, light clothing, breaks in the shade.
- Calima: During Sahara dust storms (Calima), temperatures can rise above 40°C. On these days: avoid physical exertion, drink plenty, stay indoors.
In the Water
- Currents: Some beaches (especially in the north and unprotected bays) have strong currents. Pay attention to flags: Red = swimming prohibited, Yellow = caution, Green = safe.
- Sea urchins: Common on rocky coastal sections. Water shoes (aqua shoes) are a good investment.
- Jellyfish: Rare, but possible—especially with onshore winds.
Safety
Gran Canaria is very safe. Violent crime against tourists is extremely rare. The most common issues:
- Pickpocketing: In tourist centers (Playa del Inglés, Las Canteras promenade) and markets. Keep valuables close to your body, don't leave anything unattended on the beach.
- Car break-ins: Don't leave anything visible in rental cars—neither at the beach nor at viewpoints. Use the trunk.
Emergency number: 112 (police, fire department, ambulance—works even without a SIM card).
| Risk | Assessment | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Crime | Low | Pickpocketing in tourist zones |
| Road traffic | Medium | Mountain roads are winding, pay attention to roundabouts |
| Sun/Heat | Medium–High | Sun protection is mandatory, UV index often 8–11 |
| Sea | Medium | Currents at unprotected beaches |
| Natural hazards | Low | Flash floods in barrancos after rain, rare Calima |
Achtung
The sun on Gran Canaria is deceptive: the wind on the beach makes you unaware of the heat, but the UV radiation is brutal (UV index regularly 8–11). Reapply sunscreen SPF 50+ every 2 hours, even with clouds. Most tourist doctor visits on the island are due to sunburn!
