travel to lanzarote restrictions

The Canary Islands are open to travelers, but here's what you should know about restrictions, weather, and the best time to visit

• If you're planning to visit the Canary Islands, it's important to stay aware of COVID-19 advisories.
• Keep reading for important details as you prepare to explore the Canary Islands.
• Visit Insider's hub for travel guides, tips, and recommendations.

I travel frequently to the Canary Islands and have done so often during the coronavirus pandemic. 

The rules can be confusing and depend greatly on where you'll be arriving from, so make sure to take note if you plan to travel to the European Union first. It's also a good idea to check with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the US Embassy for updates.

I usually check the requirements on the Canary Islands tourism bureau website , which works with the government to update visitors on the rules and regulations for entering. I highly recommend checking the page regularly to ensure you'll be fully prepared.

Do note these policies are current as of this writing but are subject to change at any time. 

If you're traveling directly from the US to the Canary Islands, be prepared to show the following:

• A health form , which can be filled out online before traveling. Once completed, you'll get a QR code you can either show printed or digitally to be scanned upon arrival.
• A certificate of full vaccination against COVID-19. Travelers arriving from the US to the Canary Islands, or from the US to the Spanish mainland for tourism purposes, must be fully vaccinated . Accompanying persons between 12 and 17 years old are exempt.
• Passengers aged between 12 and 17 must have a negative PCR test taken a maximum of 72 hours before arrival.
• Antigen tests must be taken a maximum of 24 hours before arrival in Spain and NAAT tests (PCR, TMA, LAMP) taken a maximum of 72 hours before arrival in Spain.

If you plan to visit another European hub before heading to the Canary Islands, make sure to check the requirements for entering that particular country from the United States before traveling.

Related stories

And if you're visiting the Canaries via mainland Spain and are above the age of 12, you'll have to show either a certificate of full vaccination against COVID-19, a negative COVID-19 test (antigen tests taken a maximum of 48 hours before arrival, and NAAT tests taken a maximum of 72 hours before arrival), or a certificate of recovery confirming that the holder has recovered from COVID-19, issued at least 11 days after the first positive test.

Other key info to know before traveling to the Canary Islands

The volcanic eruption on la palma.

The island of La Palma experienced a volcanic eruption in September 2021 that spewed hot lava and ash over many businesses and residential homes in the immediate area and also temporarily affected the air quality. As of December 25, 2021, the eruption was declared officially over .

All areas outside Cumbre Vieja are safe to visit, as they were not affected by the lava. Though most places are up and running, make sure to check with local businesses or restaurants you'd like to visit that are near Cumbre Vieja in the following areas: El Paso, Los Llanos de Aridane, Tazacorte, Mazo, and Fuencaliente, which could still be affected by volcanic ash.

What to know about weather and what to pack

No matter which island you visit, the sun can be very strong, so pack sunscreen. 

Though it's typically warm at sea level, bring along layers and warm clothing if you plan to hike in the Canaries or visit the Teide volcano — temperatures can vary up to 30 or 40 degrees Fahrenheit at different elevations on all the islands. It may be 40F and raining on Teide , approximately 12,000 feet above sea level, and 74F and sunny down below.

It's also important to know the Canary Islands are windy, especially in summer but really year-round. Whenever there's high pressure over the Sahara, temps rise and humidity falls, creating trade winds that blow over the islands, often at strong speeds midday. This is why the islands are so apt for surfing.

Different islands and areas of each island can have very different wind speeds. Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, and Fuerteventura are usually the windiest islands .  Tenerife and Gran Canaria , especially the southern areas of these islands are usually slightly warmer, less windy, and much sunnier. Plan your vacation accordingly.

The best times to visit the Canary Islands

The Canary Islands have sunny, warm temps year-round and it rarely rains . Winds are generally high year-round, too. It's slightly warmer in the summer when highs hover around 80 degrees Fahrenheit. December highs are about 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

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Practical Information

Below you will find useful information to enable you to avoid unpleasant surprises and to enjoy your stay in lanzarote to the maximum:, before coming, arriving on the island.

• Necessary documentation: to travel to the Canary Islands, the only documentation you need to carry with you is your National ID document or passport, if you are a citizen of a country in the European Union.
• Brexit: You may need to do extra things before you travel to the UE from the UK. Check UK’s travel advice for the latest information.
• Medical attention : it is advisable to take out travel insurance that includes medical attention. That way you will be free to attend your assigned doctor if the need arises.
• Luggage: with an annual average temperature of 22º and practically 300 days of sunshine, it is advisable to bring comfortable light clothing and a jumper or a jacket for nighttime, in addition to beach clothing and sun cream.
• When to visit: given that the prevailing climate throughout the year in Lanzarote is sunny and without rain, there is no specific tourist season. This means that you can enjoy a vacation at any time of the year. High season is focused on the summer period and other holiday times, such as Christmas and Easter.
• Hiring a car: to hire a car you will need a current driving licence. In the case of using your own vehicle, you will also need to have all your vehicle documentation in order, as well as car insurance.
• Time zone: Lanzarote, like the rest of the islands in the Canary archipelago, uses Greenwich Meridian Time (GMT) throughout the year, except from April to October, when it changes to GMT+1. The Canary Islands are one hour behind the rest of the Iberian peninsula throughout the year.
• Currency: Euro
• Public holidays: Public holidays in the Autonomous Region of the Canaries: 1st January (New Year), 7th January (Epiphany), Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, 1st May (Labour Day), 30th May (Day of the Canaries), 15th August (Ascension Day), 1st November (All Saint’s Day) and 6th December (Day of the Constitution), 8th December (Immaculate Conception) and 25th December (Christmas). Public holiday on the island: 15th September (Nuestra Señora de los Dolores) Local public holidays: Arrecife: Carnival Tuesday and 25th August (San Ginés) San Bartolomé: Carnival Tuesday and 24th June (San Juan) Haría: Carnival Tuesday and 24th June (San Juan) Yaiza: 7th July (San Marcial) and 8th September (Nuestra Sra. de los Remedios) Teguise: Carnival Tuesday and 16th July (Nuestra Sra. del Carmen) Tinajo: Carnival Tuesday y and 16th August (San Roque) Tías: 2nd February (Nuestra Sra. de Calendaría) and Carnival Tuesday
• Accessible tourism: Isla De Los Volcanes Home Help Service  www.sadiv.es
• Calling your home country: Depending on the country, you must dial the following codes before the telephone number:

Germany: +49           Austria: +43 Belgium: +32            Bulgaria: +359 Canada: +1                Denmark: +45 Slovenia: +386         USA: +1 Estonia: +372           Finland: +358 France: +33              Hungary: +36 Ireland: +353           Italy: +39 Latvia: +371              Lithuania: +370 Luxembourg: +352  Norway: +47 Netherlands: +31     Poland: +48 Portugal: +351          United Kingdom: +44 Czech Rep.: +420     Slovakia: +421 Sweden: +46             Switzerland: +41

• Airport: Airport tax: usually your ticket will include airport tax. César Manrique Lanzarote airport: located 6km from the capital, between Arrecife and Puerto del Carmen. It is in the municipality of San Bartolomé and is divided into 2 terminals: T1 is for flights to the peninsula (with daily flights from several airline companies, such as Air Europa, Iberia and EasyJet) and for flights to the rest of the world. T2 is for scheduled inter-island flights (Binter Canarias and Canaryfly).
• Travel agencies: In Lanzarote there is a whole network of receiving agencies through which you can access all the services you will need at your destination, such as transfers, excursions, etc…
• Opening hours The opening hours for leisure and commercial activities, banking and restaurants vary according to the numbers and needs of tourists. The exact information related to each offer can be found in the menu corresponding to the appropriate section of this web portal.
• What should I do if I have a problem in an establishment? If you have a problem with any establishment (restaurant, hotel ,etc.), request the corresponding complaints form to explain the reasons for your complaint and you can be sure this will reach the relevant bodies.
• Transport During your visit to the island you can use the Guaguas bus service, which connects the capital to the different towns, as well as the taxi service. There are also boats and ferries that connect Lanzarote with La Graciosa and with the other islands in the Canary archipelago.
• About traffic regulations The maximum speed limit on highways is 90 km/h and in urban areas it is 60 km/h, unless otherwise indicated. There are traffic regulations that control and penalise not wearing a seatbelt, driving under the influence of alcohol and the use of mobile phones without a hands-free system. If you are involved in a serious accident, call 112. If you are not injured, exchange the necessary details with the other drivers involved in the accident. Car hire agencies must have taken out insurance for the driver and the vehicle, and must also have a number for vehicle breakdown.
• Health Hospital:  you can consult all the information  here . Insurance: if you have private insurance, you must contact your insurance agency to request a transfer card. If you attend any of the public hospitals or clinics, remember that you will need to present your Social Security card. Sun protection: the hottest and sunniest months are July, August and September, with an average of 12 hours of sun per day and daytime temperatures of between 27º and 29º. During these months you should avoid sunbathing at midday and use a high protection sun cream. Medicines: do not forget to bring with you any medication that you need to take. Local pharmacies stock all the main brands of analgesics and other common medications. There are pharmacies in all tourist areas and there is always one on duty.
• Does the island have safe drinking water? Tap water comes from desalination plants and is perfectly drinkable. However, if you do not like the taste of the water, you will find a large variety of bottled water in any shop.

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Lanzarote: Island of Volcanoes and Festivals In Lanzarote we love an open-air festival, whether on our streets or against the backdrop of our magical natural spaces. Here, music is synonymous with shared life and, of course, respect for the environment. There is as big a variety of stages as there are musical tastes: avant-garde trends [...]

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Traveling to the Canary or Balearic islands in Spain? Here’s what to expect

Mar 24, 2022 • 2 min read

Here's what to expect if you're headed to the Canary or Balearic Islands for a holiday © Getty Images/iStockphoto

Just ahead of welcoming visitors flocking to its islands for the Easter break, the Canaries in Spain  are suspending some COVID-19 safety measures.

The rollback means that restaurants, clubs and other businesses in  Gran Canaria , La Palma and Tenerife  can return to normal operating hours and full capacity. 

"We have tools to control the pandemic. But we remain vigilant. If circumstances worsen, we will reactivate them. It's not the end yet," said President Ángel Victor Torres Pérez of the Canaries  in announcing the rollback of requirements. 

Currently, 78.8% of residents of the Canary Islands are vaccinated against coronavirus. 

The move follows Spain's other popular island destination — the Balearics — also rolling back their COVID-19 requirements.

Here are some of the things to consider if you’re headed to one of these popular Easter-break destinations. 

Travel requirements to enter Spain

To enter Spain, you’ll need to fill out the digital Health Control Form . You’ll also need to present a certificate proving full vaccination if traveling from a non-European Union country. Unvaccinated travelers from outside the European Union and Schengen Zone are not allowed to travel to Spain for non-essential reasons. This includes Americans and British tourists.

In addition, if you’re arriving from a country of high risk , you have to have a COVID-19 test before arriving. Antigen tests must be done 48 hours prior to arrival and PCR tests no more than 72 hours prior to arrival. 

Since February 1, Spain also requires your last dose of your primary regime of the vaccine be within the past 270 days. If it is outside that window, you’ll need to present proof of a booster shot taken no less than 14-days prior. 

Read more: Which of the Canary Islands is best for you? 

Masks still required in many indoor places

Though COVID-19 capacity restrictions have rolled back and masks are no longer required outdoors, tuck one in your pocket because masks are still required in indoor public places.

You may also need to show proof of vaccination to enter some establishments. 

La Palma recovering from the volcano

Along with the COVID-19 pandemic, the island of La Palma is recovering from a natural disaster. The volcanic eruption that started September 19 ended on December 25. The tourism website estimates 10% of the island was impacted by the volcano and is currently trying to reconstruct. 

While the island is open and welcoming visitors, it asks that you respect safety instructions as it rebuilds from the damage done by the volcano. 

For more information on COVID-19 and travel, check out  Lonely Planet's Health Hub .

You might also like: The best time to go to Spain The 10 best beaches in Spain 8 incredible national parks in Spain  

This article was first published Jan 26, 2022 and updated Mar 24, 2022.

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Covid Testing Protocol For Tourists

Update 20th october 2022.

As if 0001 hours tomorrow morning, 21st October 2022, there are no Covid related entry requirements to visit Spain or the islands. No vaccination certificates, no covid tests and no locator forms.

If you have or contract covid

Travellers with Covid are asked not to travel. If you contract Covid whilst on the island, the health department asks that you self isolate in your accommodation.

On arrival, all passengers may be subject to a temperature check on arrival which may be done by non contact thermometers or infra red scanners, and they will be observed by medical staff.

Some passengers may be asked to submit to a Covid test.

More reading:

Lanzarote In Numbers

2023 – A Record Year For Tourism

Fred Olsen Express’ 50th Anniversary

Charity Corner – Great Walk For Parkinson’s

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Safety and security

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad .

Terrorism in Spain

Terrorists are likely to try and carry out attacks in Spain.

Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreign nationals. Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.

In January 2023, one person was killed and others injured in a machete attack at 2 churches in Cadiz

Political situation

Demonstrations, political gatherings or marches can take place with little or no warning, particularly in cities. Follow the advice of police and local authorities.

While most demonstrations are peaceful, there is a risk of unrest or violence. If you’re near areas where demonstrations are taking place, be aware of what is happening around you and move away if there are signs of disorder.

Lost or stolen passports

If your passport is lost or stolen, you must renew your passport or apply for an emergency travel document . You cannot use a police report to leave Spain.

Protecting your belongings

Be alert to the risk of street crime. Thieves use distraction techniques and often work in teams. Take care of your passports, money and personal belongings, particularly when collecting or checking in luggage at the airport, and while arranging car hire.

Do not carry all your valuables in one place. Keep a copy of the photo page of your passport somewhere safe.

Make sure your accommodation has adequate security. Keep all doors and windows locked. If you’re concerned about the security of your accommodation, speak to your travel operator or the property owner.

Vehicle crime

‘Highway pirates’ target foreign-registered and hire cars, especially those towing caravans. They may flag you down, claiming there is something wrong with your car or that you have damaged theirs. If you decide to stop to check the condition of a vehicle, stop in a public area with lights, such as a service station. Be wary of anyone offering help.

When driving, be wary of approaches from people posing as plainclothes police in unmarked cars. In all traffic-related matters, police officers will usually be in uniform.

Unmarked police vehicles have a flashing electronic sign on the rear window saying ‘Policía’ or ‘Guardia Civil’. Genuine police will only ask you to show vehicle documents – not to hand over your bag or wallet.

Attacks and sexual assault

Attacks, including sexual assaults, are rare but do occur. In an emergency call 112.

Avoid splitting up from your friends, do not leave drinks unattended and do not go off with people you do not know. Save the location of your accommodation on your maps app, so it’s easy to find. See TravelAware ‘Stick with your mates’ for tips and advice.

See advice on getting help if you are a victim of crime abroad .

British Consulates in Spain (+34 917 146 300 or +44 207 008 5000) can provide local information and support.

Drink spiking and alcohol

Be alert to the possible use of ‘date rape’ and other drugs including GHB and liquid ecstasy.

Buy your own drinks and always keep them in sight to avoid them being spiked. Alcohol and drugs can reduce your vigilance, making you less in control. If you drink, know your limit. Drinks served in bars in Spain are often stronger than those in the UK.

Thieves posing as police officers may ask to see your wallet, claiming they need to see it for identification. Genuine police officers will ask to see ID but will not ask for wallets or purses. All police officers, including those in plain clothes, carry official ID.

Timeshares and holiday clubs

Be cautious if you are planning to buy or sell a timeshare. There are companies who offer false incentives.

Read timeshare fraud advice from Action Fraud .

Laws and cultural differences

Personal id.

You must provide photo ID if asked by a police officer. This includes the Guardia Civil and national, regional and local police forces. The police have the right to hold you at a police station until they have confirmed your identity.

Ignoring direct requests of a police officer can be considered as ‘disobedience’, which is a criminal offence.

Hotels, tourist accommodation and car rental companies have a legal duty to register passport details of tourists who check in or collect a vehicle.

When checking in to your accommodation, wait until hotel staff have registered your passport details, or taken a copy of your passport. Do not leave your passport at reception to collect later.

You may need to show ID when buying goods with credit or debit cards. Some shops will accept your driving licence or a copy of your passport, but some may ask for your passport.

Alcohol laws and bans

It’s illegal to drink alcohol in the street in some areas of Spain. You can get an on-the-spot fine. There are strict controls on drinking and sexual activity in public places, including on beaches.

Alcohol laws in the Balearic Islands

Local laws limit the sale and availability of alcohol in areas of some resorts on the Balearic Islands, including:

• Magaluf (Calvià), Mallorca
• Playa de Palma, Mallorca
• San Antonio (San Antoni de Portmany), Ibiza
• happy hours
• open bars (such as ‘all you can drink in one hour’ offers)
• the sale of alcohol from vending machines
• self-service alcohol dispensers
• organising pub crawls and party boat trips
• ‘off-licence’ sales between 9:30pm and 8am

Hotels and other establishments will evict you if you behave dangerously on balconies. You could also get a fine.

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

Possession of even a small quantity of drugs can lead to arrest and detention. Possession of large quantities will usually result in prosecution and a prison sentence.

Illegal commercial parties in villas and private homes

There have been a number of serious accidents involving people attending illegal commercially promoted parties in villas and private homes on the islands of Ibiza and Mallorca.

Licensed clubs and bars have to meet safety and security standards, including emergency exits and capacity limits, and have trained, licensed security staff. Illegal commercial parties may not meet these standards. Take care of your belongings, make sure you know where emergency exits are and do not take unnecessary risks.

You may get a fine for attending illegal commercially promoted parties.

In some parts of Spain it’s illegal to be in the street wearing only a bikini or swimming shorts. Being bare-chested is also illegal in some areas in Spain. You could be fined if you’re caught wearing swimwear on the seafront promenade or adjacent streets.

For security reasons, some public authorities in Spain do not allow the burka or niqab to be worn in their buildings. If you visit town council buildings wearing a burka or niqab, you may be asked to remove it while inside.

Changing money

Always use official money exchange offices or banks because unofficial money changers may give you counterfeit money. Possession or use of counterfeit money is considered a serious crime in Spain and may lead to prosecution.

Spain is a generally tolerant and progressive place for LGBT+ travellers. There are active LGBT+ communities and social venues, particularly in big cities. Same-sex marriage is legal. Transgender people can register under their preferred sex in public documents such as birth certificates, identity cards and passports without undergoing prior gender reassignment surgery.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers .

Outdoor activities and adventure tourism

Falls from height.

There have been a number of serious accidents, some fatal, involving British nationals falling from height, including from balconies.

Do not take unnecessary risks around balconies or other high places, particularly if you’re under the influence of drink or drugs. If you are staying in a room with a balcony, follow the safety advice at the hotel or apartment, and watch out for friends who may be at risk.

In some regions you may be fined or evicted from your hotel if you are found to be behaving irresponsibly around balconies. Your travel insurance may not cover you for incidents that take place on a balcony or if you were under the influence of drink or drugs when the incident happened.

Festivals, concerts and processions

Many large events and public processions are held in Spain each year. Follow the advice of police and local authorities when attending events.

Take care of your valuables if attending a festival or large concert. See the festival travel checklist for more advice.

Swimming and beaches

Every year, people drown in the sea and in swimming pools in Spain. Always supervise children, even if they can swim or there is a lifeguard present.

Take care when swimming in the sea. Some beaches, especially around Spanish islands, may have strong undercurrents.

Hidden rocks or shallow depths can cause serious injury or death. Do not dive into unknown water and do not swim at beaches where a river runs into the sea.

Many beaches have a flag system. Make sure you understand the system and follow any warnings (a red flag means you must not enter the water). Take extra care and get local knowledge if there are no lifeguards, flags or signs.

If you are walking along unmonitored beaches, be aware that waves can come in further than expected and have strong undertows.

See further tips on ABTA’s swim safe pages and Water Safety on Holiday from the Royal Life Saving Society. 

Follow local advice if jellyfish are present.

Hill walking, skiing and mountain activities

Temperatures in some parts of Spain can change very quickly. Take extra care when planning a hike or walk. Check local weather reports for warnings of extreme heat or cold temperatures.

Altitude sickness may be a risk in some of the higher mountain ranges in Spain, particularly in the regions of Granada, Huesca and Tenerife. See Health .

For advice on safety and weather conditions for skiing or other outdoor activities you can:

• call the Spanish National Tourist Office in London on 020 7317 2028
• see the European Avalanche Warning Services

If an accident happens while mountaineering, canoeing, potholing or climbing, or if you become lost in the mountains and need mountain rescue, call:

• 112 for the emergency services
• 062 for the Civil Guard

The Catalonia region has started billing climbers, skiers and other adventurers whose negligent behaviour causes them to need rescue.

Transport risks

Check with your airline, tour operator or transport company whether there is any planned strike action which might disrupt your journey.

Road travel

You can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in Spain. If you still have a paper driving licence, you may need to update it to a photocard licence . Provisional licences are not valid for driving in Spain.

To drive a car or a motorcycle over 125cc in Spain you must be 18 years of age or above, and at least 16 years old to ride a motorcycle up to 125cc. You must carry a valid driving licence and ID.  

If you are using UK insurance, always carry your certificate with you in case you are stopped. Check that your UK insurance will cover you to drive in Spain, and for how long. This certificate is generally only valid for a stay of less than 3 months.

Check the requirements for driving if you live in Spain .

Driving a British car abroad

You may need a UK sticker to drive your car outside the UK .

Driving regulations

If you are planning to drive in Spain, see information on driving abroad and check the rules of the road in the RAC’s Spain guide . The guide lists driving regulations and other legal requirements you need to be aware of.

Spain has strict drink-driving laws. Police regularly carry out roadside checks for alcohol and drugs. Penalties include fines, loss of licence and a prison sentence.

The police can give you on-the-spot fines for a variety of driving offences including speeding. If you accept the fine and pay within 20 days, it will be reduced by 50%. More information on how to pay is available on the Spanish driving agency website.

Seatbelts are compulsory for all passengers in the front and back seats. Children under 1.35m in height must use an approved child safety seat secured on the back seat. Children are only permitted to travel in the front seat of the car if the rear seats are already occupied by other children or if the vehicle does not have rear seats.

Car hire agencies can provide child seats, so let them know you need one when you reserve the car. Incorrect installation of a child seat or not wearing a seatbelt can be considered a serious offence and met with fines. 

It is illegal to use a mobile phone when driving, even if you have pulled over to the side of the road. You must be completely away from the road. Using an earpiece is also illegal. Only completely hands-free units are allowed.

Low emission zones

Some inner-city areas in Spain have introduced permanent low emission zones (‘Zonas de bajas emisiones’ – ZBE) where Spanish vehicles must meet specific exhaust emission standards and display an air pollution sticker. The stickers are not issued to vehicles with foreign registration plates, but some cities require you to register your vehicle in advance – for example, Barcelona.

The Spanish government’s general information helpline 060 (if calling in Spain) or +34 902 887 060 (if calling from UK) may be able to provide further information.

Only use official registered or licensed taxis, or reputable transport companies you recognise. Licensing regulations differ across Spain and in certain cities pre-booking is required.

Passengers caught using unlicensed taxi services are liable for fines of up to 600 euros. Make sure you book your taxi or airport transfer through a licensed firm.

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards .

Extreme temperatures

Extreme temperatures can affect many areas of Spain over the summer months. Follow the Spanish Meteorological Office (AEMET) and European Meteorological Services for severe weather warnings.

The NHS has information on how to cope in hot weather . You can also follow guidance from the Spanish Ministry of Health (in Spanish).

Check with your travel provider and follow the advice of local authorities.

Wildfires happen often in Spain, including on the islands, during the summer months.

Be aware of your environment when visiting or driving through woodland areas. For information on wildfire risk visit the Spanish Meteorological Office (AEMET) .

Causing a wildfire is a criminal offence in Spain, even if unintentional. Make sure cigarette ends are properly extinguished, do not light barbecues and do not leave empty bottles behind. You can be heavily fined for not following the rules against lighting outdoor barbecues in forest areas. Make sure you know the rules if considering a barbeque.

For information on what to do in the event of a wildfire, visit Civil Protection (website in Spanish). Immediately report any fire you see to the emergency services on 112. In the case of wildfires, the situation can change quickly, so you should stay up to date with official advice.

Flash flooding can cause travel disruption and damage to property and infrastructure. Check weather warnings from Spain’s meteorological office (AEMET) before travel and follow the advice of the local authorities.

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Canary Islands (Spain) Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

There are no notices currently in effect for Canary Islands (Spain).

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Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Consider hepatitis A vaccination for most travelers. It is recommended for travelers who will be doing higher risk activities, such as visiting smaller cities, villages, or rural areas where a traveler might get infected through food or water. It is recommended for travelers who plan on eating street food.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers of all ages traveling to the Canary Islands.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Dogs infected with rabies are not commonly found in the Canary Islands.

If rabies exposures occur while in the Canary Islands, rabies vaccines may only be available in larger suburban/urban medical facilities.

Rabies pre-exposure vaccination considerations include whether travelers 1) will be performing occupational or recreational activities that increase risk for exposure to potentially rabid animals and 2) might have difficulty getting prompt access to safe post-exposure prophylaxis.

Please consult with a healthcare provider to determine whether you should receive pre-exposure vaccination before travel.

For more information, see country rabies status assessments .

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil
• Avoid floodwater

Clinical Guidance

Airborne & droplet.

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in the Canary Islands, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH)
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in the Canary Islands. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in the Canary Islands include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call the Canary Islands’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of the Canary Islands may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in the Canary Islands, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Canary Islands (Spain) for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.

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Spain Travel Restrictions

Traveler's COVID-19 vaccination status

Traveling from the United States to Spain

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required in public spaces, enclosed environments and public transportation.

Spain entry details and exceptions

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Can I travel to Spain from the United States?

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Spain.

Can I travel to Spain if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Spain without restrictions.

Can I travel to Spain without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Spain without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Spain?

Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Spain.

Can I travel to Spain without quarantine?

Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Spain?

Mask usage in Spain is not required in public spaces, enclosed environments and public transportation.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Spain?

Restaurants in Spain are open. Bars in Spain are .

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Travel Guide To Lanzarote

Nature has been a capricious friend to Lanzarote . First it gave the island a benign climate of warm winters and not-too-scorching summers, coupled with fertile soil and secluded, golden beaches; then it drowned swathes of the best farmland in a tide of lava, swallowing up houses, churches and miles of unspoilt shoreline. It may seem odd that somewhere so geologically restless should turn out to be such a relaxing spot. The beauty of the place is such that you don't have to do anything if you don't want to, other than lazing on velvety soft sand at Papagayo beach with a good book. The Canary Islands make a great winter sun destination.

Where to stay in Lanzarote

Thanks to a quiet revolution in Lanzarote 's tourist industry, several small hotels - usually in converted farmhouses, have recently opened away from the main resorts.

WHERE TO STAY IN TIAGUA, LANZAROTE

CASA LA MOLINA This has a bohemian and slightly camp appeal (witness the heart-shaped lollipops placed on your pillow in the evening).

Telephone: 00 34 928 529 266 Website: www.lamolinalanzarote.com Book now

HOTEL CASA DEL EMBAJADOR

The entire resort of Playa Blanca may have sprung up round the old house since the eponymous ambassador left, but the airy feel of the place and the fabulous setting, right on the shore, between two beaches and with stunning views over to Fuerteventura, mean you hardly notice the surrounding bustle.

Telephone: 00 34 928 519 191 Website: www.hotelcasadelembajador.com ) Book now

WHERE TO STAY IN YAIZA, LANZAROTE

CASERIO DE MOZAGA

This was formerly the summer house of an aristocratic Madrid family who have recently turned it into a calm, elegant, rural retreat. The peaceful whitewashed bedrooms, judiciously scattered with antiques, are clustered round a small courtyard, and surrounded by enchanting gardens, well-stocked with native plants and inviting sun beds. £

Telephone: 00 34 928 520 060 Website: caseriodemozaga.com Book now

Where to eat out in Lanzarote

Sophisticated it may not be, but Lanzarotean cuisine at its best is a thing of joy all the same. Traditional dishes veer towards the hearty: sancocho , salted fish and vegetable stew; the misleadingly named potaje de berros . (watercress soup), which is more meat than watercress and not particularly soupy either; and puchero , reminiscent of French cassoulet . Then there's an array of fabulous rabbit and baby goat dishes, marinated with herbs and roasted. For something lighter, stick to seafood. Even the most basic-looking restaurants can be guaranteed to rustle up a plate of perfectly grilled fish.

CASTILLO DE SAN JOSE Smart locals flock to this Manrique-designed gem in an old Pirates of the Caribbean-style fort for grown-up Spanish and Canarian dishes with a sophisticated twist. Don't miss the curiously irresistible starter of dates wrapped in bacon, coated in gofio and fried. Av. Naos, S/N, 35500 Arrecife

RESTAURANTE COSTA AZUL Try an exquisite snack of fresh-grilled pulp (octopus) or fried calamari (squid). The most famous local speciality, though, is humble papas arrugadas, new potatoes cooked in salt water until the skins wrinkle, served with equally famous red and green sauces called mojos . Gofio (roughly ground corn, maize or barley) crops up in many dishes, but is at its most delicious in puddings such as the wonderfully creamy and cinnamon-scented mousse de gofio . The local wines are perfectly drinkable, especially the crisp, dry whites, but they travel badly. Avenida Maritima, 8, 35570 El Golfo

BODEGA EL CHUPADERO The place to sample a glass or several of the local wine, mopped up with hearty portions of cheese, jamon serrano or lentil soup, while gazing out over the world's strangest vineyards. La Geria, 3, 35570

PARQUE NACIONAL DE TIMANFAYA

EL DIABLO Fabulous views, chic Manrique décor, prompt service from snappily dressed waiters and - the unique selling point - your food grilled to perfection over a volcanic vent. Calle de Charco Prieto, S/N, 35560

ACATIFE Positively reeking of history - it was the first eating house in Lanzarote, Acatife serves up robust local food, including roast kid and rabbit stews, in a central location opposite the church. Plaza la Constitución, 1, 35530 Teguise

LA STRELITZIA Imaginative French dining, for when you've had your fill of salty, wrinkled potatoes. Avenida Guanartem, 55, Carretera Principal

LA ERA Traditional Canarian food at its satisfying best, and an extensive list of Spanish and local wines to boot, served up in the deliberately quaint setting of one of the few farmhouses to survive the 1730s eruptions. Its restoration was an early Manrique project. de la Molina, Calle el Barranco, 3, 35570 Yaiza

What to see in Lanzarote

ADMIRE THE GENIUS OF MANRIQUE

The island's most famous, and favoured, son has left a permanent mark on the appearance of his native land. The Jardin de Cactus, just north of Guatiza, is one of his most glorious creations, a magical amphitheatre planted with hundreds of cacti in all their weird and wonderful variety. Spot the hand of Manrique too, in the huge abstract sculpture called the Monumento al Campesino ('peasant'), not far from a museum dedicated to farming. It's also thanks to him that the old gun emplacement at the Mirador del Rio in the north, looking across to tiny Graciosa island, is now a groovy bar, like something out of an early Bond film, and with a view to die for.

FALL IN LOVE WITH LAVA

You're never far from a volcano on Lanzarote , but the most impressive cluster is in the Parque Nacionalo de Timanfaya, scene of the most recent eruptions in the 1730s and 1824. The Fundacion César Manrique, as it is now, looks at first like a typical one-storey whitewashed village house, but there's a surprise: a lower storey slotted into a series of bubbles in the lava. Elsewhere, Manrique turned a half-collapsed volcanic tunnel into the superb Jameos del Agua. With an underground lake, concert hall, bar and part-time nightclub.

HEAD FOR THE BEACH

Even in November the sea is warm enough for a dip, and with average daytime temperatures in the low- to mid-20°Cs, a spot of sunbathing isn't out of the question either. The more sheltered beaches are on the east coast, so its no coincidence that the three main resorts are also there. But you don't have to share your spot of sand with a thousand package-holidaymakers. Just off the coast road between Orzola and Arrieta, there are sheltered inlets with handkerchief-sized beaches, and Arrieta itself has a pleasant curve of off-white sand and an indoor changing area with showers. At the other end of the island are the five gorgeous beaches that make up the Papagayo reserve. You can go for an all-over tan on the furthest (Playa del Puerto Muelas), but whichever you pick, take your own drinks, food and shelter. For sea with a bit more oomph, join the surfing set at Famara beach or just watch them from the comfort of the long, windswept arc of sand.

VISIT A VINEYARD

A rocky plain covered with black volcanic pebbles seems an unlikely spot for Lanzarote's main vineyards, and even less plausible is the idea that it might be even remotely beautiful. But the world is full of surprises. Drive along the scratch of a road through La Geria and be impressed by the geometry of the vines.

WANDER ROUND TEGUISE

Soothing by day, eerily quiet at night, the former capital is a delightful little town of narrow cobbled streets, with a little square dominated by the distinctive white-topped tower of the church of Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe. After dark, the only way you'll know for certain that the place is inhabited is by the babble of cheery voices floating out from behind shuttered windows.

By Sarah James

By Trish Lorenz

By Becky Lucas

WATCH THE SUN GO DOWN INTO THE SEA

For comfort and easy access, head to the tiny fishing village of El Golfo and the terrace of the Restaurante Costa Azul (00 34 928 173 199). Not only is it a great spot for relaxing with a drink and a little dish of something - unbelievably fresh grilled octopus or tender squid. If that's not elemental enough for you, take the corrugated dirt track through Timanfaya (you'll need four-wheel-drive) to the remote Playa de la Madera, a tiny black-sand beach surrounded by stark volcanic scenery.

How to get to Lanzarote

AIRPORT The international airport is Guacimeta, which lies between Arrecife (the capital) and the resort town of Puerto del Carmen. Lanzarote lies about 100km off the north-west coast of Africa.

AIRLINES FROM THE UK British Airways (0844 493 0787; www.ba.com ) flies four times a week from Gatwick to Arrecife. Taxis are fine for short journeys on the island; for anything more adventurous, hire a car. Most of the major companies (Avis, Hertz etc) have offices at the airport.

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• Consular services

Conditions for entry into Spain

​Please read our FAQs  here​

Nationals of third States who travel to Spain for stays of up to 90 days (during any period of 180 days) for tourism, business, family visits, medical treatment, study, non-work internships or volunteer activities with a duration not exceeding 3 months, or for other non-gainful activities, must meet the entry conditions established in the Schengen Borders Code.

Entry requirements​​ 

• Enter via an authorised border-crossing point.
• Present proof of identity and a valid travel document.
• Present the corresponding visa if required, according to nationality.
• Provide evidence of meeting the conditions for the proposed stay and of possessing sufficient financial resources.
• Not be subject to a ban on entering Spain.  

Documents to present at the border​​  

1. Valid passport or travel document : The document must be valid until three months after the planned date of departure from the Schengen territory, and must have been issued during the ten years immediately before the date of entry. 

2. Visa : For certain nationalities, a valid visa is required. This visa will not be necessary if the interested party has a valid residence permit or a valid long-term visa issued by a Schengen State. 

3. Documents accrediting the purpose and conditions of the planned stay : At the request of the competent authorities, the reasons and conditions of the planned stay must be accredited by documentary proof or other means. To this end, the presentation, among others, of the following documents may be required: 

• Return or tourist circuit ticket, in all cases. 
• For professional trips, the invitation from a company or authority to participate in a meeting, or documents that prove the existence of a relationship associated with professional activity, or access cards to a trade fair or congress. 
• For tourist or private visits, the confirmed reservation of an organized trip, or proof of accommodation, or letter of invitation from a private individual (such a letter only proves the availability of accommodation and does not release the traveller from the obligation to meet the other requirements for entry). The proof of accommodation may indicate whether it includes all or part of the traveller's living expenses. 
• For study trips, training programmes, non-work internships or volunteer work with a duration of less than three months, enrolment documentation or proof of admission to an educational establishment or internship contract or proof of admission to a volunteer programme.  
• For travel for other reasons, an invitation, reservation, programme or certificate of participation in related activities, entrance card/ticket, or receipt. 

Accreditation of financial means​​​  

At the request of the competent authorities, the traveller must present proof of having sufficient financial means for the proposed stay or of the ability to legally obtain such means. 

In 2020, the minimum amount required is 90 euros per person per day. In any case, and regardless of the length of stay, the traveller must have at least 810 euros or its equivalent in foreign currency. 

Economic means may be accredited by presenting cash, traveller's cheques, a credit card accompanied by a bank account statement, an up-to-date bank book, or any other resource that accredits the amount available, such as a credit statement regarding the card or bank account. Bank letters or online bank statements will not be accepted.

Entry authorization​​​  

Authorization to enter Spain may be granted to nationals of third States who have the necessary documentation, including, where appropriate, a visa, and sufficient financial means, and who are not subject to an entry ban and do not pose a danger to public order, the internal or external security of the State, or public health.

Denial of entry​ 

The competent authorities will deny entry to nationals of third States who do not meet the entry requirements or who are subject to an entry ban. Entry may also be denied if, in the previous 180 days, the traveller has exhausted the 90-day period for authorized stay in the Schengen area. 

The denial of entry will be notified by means of a reasoned decision, together with information on the procedure for appealing against this decision, in accordance with Spanish regulations. However, filing an appeal does not suspend the effects of the denial of entry.

Citizens of the European Union, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland, and their family members​​ 

Citizens of the Member States of the European Union, and citizens of Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland, may enter Spain with their national identity card or with a valid passport. Minors who travel with an identity document and are not accompanied by a parent will need the authorization of one of their parents. 

Family members who are not nationals of a Member State of the European Union or of Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, or Switzerland may enter with a valid passport. Depending on their nationality, they may need an entry visa, unless they have a valid residence card as the relative of a European Union citizen.

Relevant legislation 

Jet2, TUI, easyJet, Ryanair, BA: The latest travel rules for Spain, Tenerife and Lanzarote

There are different rules to follow depending on whether you are vaccinated or unvaccinated for these travel hotspots

• 07:57, 21 JAN 2022

There are still plenty of coronavirus travel rules to follow when heading abroad, with each country implementing its own set of restrictions and guidelines for tourists.

Before travelling back to England, fully vaccinated passengers must book and pay for a coronavirus test to be taken within the two days after you arrive in England.

If you are not fully vaccinated, you must take a test in the two days before you travel to England. You must then take a PCR test on or before days two and eight after you arrive back in the country.

Read more: Get the latest travel news

You must also complete a passenger locator form in the 48 hours before you arrive in England.

When travelling to Spanish territory, including the Canary Islands of Tenerife and Lanzarote, all passengers must fill in and sign an online Health Control Form . If you do not complete this form electronically, you may submit it in paper format before boarding.

For travel to Spain and the Canary Islands, you must show proof that you have been fully vaccinated at least 14 days prior to arrival.

You may also be subject to additional checks at the point of entry including a temperature check, visual health assessment, or testing on arrival.

Children under the age of 12 years old do not need to show proof of being fully vaccinated on entry to Spain.

Enter your postcode below for the latest coronavirus statistics in your area:

If you are not fully vaccinated, you will not be allowed to enter Spain or the Canary Islands unless you are a citizen of the EU and have an essential reason.

If you meet the requirements for an essential reason, you must show proof of a negative PCR test or a medical certificate certifying that you have recovered from Covid in the last six months prior to travel.

Tests not accepted if you are travelling from the UK to Spain for tourism purposes unless you are travelling with a family member who is an EU citizen.

To travel to the Canary Islands from mainland Spain, you may also need to show a negative coronavirus test depending on the region you are travelling from.

Travellers to the Canary Islands may be required by tourist accommodation providers to show evidence of a negative test. You should check with your travel operator for more information.

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The World Through a Lens

Roaming Through Lanzarote’s Otherworldly Vineyards

The desolate beauty of the winemaking tradition on Lanzarote, the easternmost of the Canary Islands, is evidence of human resilience in the face of adversity.

Sunset over a vineyard near the village of Uga. Credit...

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Photographs and Text by Mónica R. Goya

• Published Aug. 24, 2020 Updated Aug. 29, 2020

At the onset of the coronavirus pandemic, with travel restrictions in place worldwide, we launched a series — The World Through a Lens — in which photojournalists help transport you, virtually, to some of our planet’s most beautiful and intriguing places. This week, Mónica R. Goya shares a collection of images from the Spanish island of Lanzarote.

Situated some 80 miles off the southwest coast of Morocco, Lanzarote — with its stunning coastline, desert-like climate and plethora of volcanoes — is the easternmost of Spain’s Canary Islands. Major volcanic activity between 1730 and 1736, and again in 1824, indelibly altered the island’s landscape and helped pave the way for an improbable sight: a vast expanse of otherworldly vineyards.

In recent years, Spain has devoted more land to vines than any other country in the world . And while the Canary Islands, more broadly, have a longstanding wine tradition — the archipelago’s wines, for example, were mentioned in several of Shakespeare’s plays — nothing could prepare me for the uniqueness of Lanzarote’s vines.

The most remarkable wine area on the island is La Geria, a 13,000-acre protected landscape which lies at the foot of Timanfaya National Park , one of Lanzarote’s main tourist attractions. It was here in Timanfaya that volcanic eruptions buried around a quarter of the island (including La Geria) under a thick layer of lava and ash, creating a breathtakingly barren scene — and eventually leading to a new way of growing vines.

Many of the vines on Lanzarote are planted in inverted conical holes known as hoyos, which are dug by hand to various depths, each one made in search of the fertile soil underneath the ash and lapilli. In a counterintuitive twist, the ash plays an essential role in the vineyards’ success: It protects the ground from erosion, helps retain moisture and regulates soil temperature.

Low semicircular rock walls protect the vines from the merciless winds. Together with the hoyos, they contribute to an inventive growing method that might easily be mistaken for a network of sculptural art.

La Geria is a superb example of humans working hand-in-hand with nature. In a way, the immense — if desolate — beauty of this area is evidence of human resilience in the face of adversity: For hundreds of years, inhabitants here have managed to extract life from volcanic ash on an island often plagued by drought.

But changing weather patterns (including scarcer-than-usual rainfall) and harsh economic realities are persistent threats. The traditional hoyos system can yield about 1,200 pounds of grapes per acre. Other less traditional (and less time intensive) cultivation systems on the island can yield up to 6,000 pounds per acre — by utilizing higher-density growing techniques and some forms of mechanization.

An economist by trade and environmentalist at heart, the winegrower Ascensión Robayna has a strong connection to Lanzarote and a serious commitment to conservation. For years she has tended high-maintenance and low-yielding organic vineyards, adamantly asserting that this unique landscape, and the traditions embedded within it, must be kept alive.

“Growing vines in hoyos means that farmers adapted to the special circumstances of soil and climate, creating the most singular of the agrarian ecosystems,” she said.

There’s an obvious sparkle in Ms. Robayna’s eyes whenever she descends into the lava fissures, called chabocos, where trees and grapevines — especially muscat grapes, among the oldest of varieties — are grown. ( Puro Rofe , a winery founded on the island in 2018, recently released a wine made exclusively from her chaboco-grown grapes.)

In the late 19th century, a pestilent aphid, phylloxera, decimated grapevines throughout mainland Europe. (The wine industry there was salvaged by grafting European vines onto American rootstocks, which were immune to phylloxera.) By contrast, phylloxera never reached Canarian shores. As a result, vines here can be planted on their own roots — a relative rarity in the wine world.

Hundred-year-old vines and unique grape varieties are a common sight across the islands. Malvasia Volcánica is arguably the island’s most well-known grape variety; others include Listán Negro, Diego and Listán Blanco.

Once, while visiting a set of vineyards near Uga, a small village in southern Lanzarote, I followed the winegrower Vicente Torres as he climbed barefoot — the traditional way of working here — up the hillside to inspect his vines. With the lapilli tickling my feet, and while sinking slightly with each step, I found the ascent more arduous than I’d anticipated. Growing anything in this soil, I learned, is hard work.

According to regulatory data, this year’s harvest is expected to be less than half of last year’s, with a forecast of about 2.6 million pounds of grapes.

“The oldest men around here say they don’t recall a year as bad for vineyards as this,” said Pablo Matallana, an oenologist who grew up on neighboring Tenerife but has family roots on Lanzarote. “We have been enduring two years of extreme drought. Some plots have debilitated considerably, and the vigor of the vines has decreased,” he said.

Rayco Fernández, a founding member of the Puro Rofe winery and a distributor praised for having been one of the first to showcase quality Canarian wines, agreed. “The drought is ruining vineyards,” he said, adding that the ash, where there is a thick enough layer of it, has been a lifeline.

But Lanzarote faces other threats, too. Tourism accounts for a significant portion of the island’s gross domestic product. And, despite a relatively low number of confirmed coronavirus infections, this economic sector has largely evaporated.

According to a Covid-19 economic impact study conducted at La Laguna University, Lanzarote’s G.D.P. is projected to drop by 21 percent.

With the number of winegrowers falling, and climate change wreaking havoc, the future of winemaking on Lanzarote appears more challenging than ever.

There’s no doubt, though, that the island holds a kind of mythical sway over its visitors. It’s been almost a year since my last trip to Lanzarote, yet I continue to revisit certain images in my mind: of vines emerging from the majestic hoyos at the foot of Timanfaya — a splendor still to be treasured there, at least for now.

Mónica R. Goya is a London-based journalist and photographer. Her last World Through a Lens essay was about a hut-to-hut hike in the Dolomites . You can follow her work on Instagram .

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram , Twitter and Facebook . And sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to receive expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation.

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Improve your experience with reds, whites and rosé with our tips and recommendations..

Wine can be a source of pleasure and conviviality, but it can also be intimidating. Learn the basics with this guide .

Adopting a more thoughtful approach to wine drinking will make it a deeper and richer experience. Here are four ways to achieve that .

For a glorious decade or two, red wine was lauded as good for the heart. Now, the drink has lost its health halo .

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Carry-on luggage and personal item size limits (2024).

Just like checked bags, carry-on luggage size restrictions can vary by airline.

Carry-on Luggage Sizes by Airline

Key Takeaways

• The carry-on size limit for many airlines is 22 x 14 x 9 inches.
• Most domestic airlines do not have a weight limit for carry-on bags.
• You can typically bring a carry-on bag in addition to a personal item.
• Your personal item should be able to fit neatly under the seat in front of you.

If you're traveling with carry-on luggage and/or a personal item, you'll need to adhere to size restrictions in the same way you do with checked bags . These rules include the dimensions of your carry-on bag and, in some scenarios, even the weight.

What size luggage is a carry-on?

While carry-on luggage sizes can vary by airline, several major carriers go by these dimensions.

Airlines calculate carry-on luggage size measurements using two methods:

• Height by width by depth:  Most – but not all – airlines measure bags by inches or centimeters using this formula: height by width by depth, such as 22 x 14 x 9 inches. (Note: The dimensions listed below, which are given according to that formula, may differ slightly from the way each individual airline formats its size requirements.)
• Linear inches:  A few airlines have linear inch restrictions for carry-on baggage, meaning the airline gives one number for the total of all three dimensions. As long as the combined height, width and depth don't exceed that number, you're in the clear.

Can a 24-inch bag be a carry-on?

Yes, a 24-inch bag can be used as a carry-on suitcase when flying with the following airlines: Frontier, Southwest and Sun Country . However, if you're shopping for new carry-on luggage, it's best to opt for something that meets the requirements for most major airlines (22 x 14 x 9 inches or smaller).

Is there a weight limit for carry-on bags?

Most major domestic airlines do not impose a weight limit on carry-on bags; however, several international airlines have weight restrictions for carry-on luggage and, in some cases, personal items.

Carry-on vs. personal item: What's the difference?

A carry-on bag is typically stored in a plane's overhead bin, while a personal item should fit under the seat in front of you. Most airlines allow economy passengers to bring one carry-on and one personal item – such as an underseat bag – at no extra cost.

Carry-on luggage sizes by airline

Click on the major domestic and international airlines below to see their carry-on luggage size restrictions in inches for economy passengers – and note that any handles and wheels on your bags count toward size limits as well.

Domestic Airlines

Alaska airlines, allegiant air, american airlines, delta air lines, frontier airlines, hawaiian airlines, southwest airlines, spirit airlines, sun country airlines, united airlines, international airlines, all nippon airways, british airways, cathay pacific, klm royal dutch airlines, qatar airways, scandinavian airlines, singapore airlines, turkish airlines, virgin atlantic.

See all Alaska Airlines carry-on policies.

The fee is often around $20 if you pay for your carry-on baggage at the time of booking; it costs a hefty $45 if you add a carry-on bag later – and up to $75 at the gate.

See all Allegiant Air carry-on policies.

The above rules also apply to basic economy tickets.

See all American Airlines carry-on policies.

Note that if you're flying to or from Beijing or Shanghai, there is a 22-pound weight limit for a carry-on; for Singapore, there is a 15-pound limit.

See all Delta Airlines carry-on policies.

There are two instances where the carry-on bag fee is waived:

• You're an elite member of the  FRONTIER Miles rewards program .
• You bought a specialty ticket like the WORKS bundle.

Also note that carry-on bag fees, which typically start at around $30, depend on your destination, and that prices are cheapest if you add baggage when you make your booking. You'll pay more to add it later, especially if you do so at the airport. Sometimes it's actually cheaper to purchase a checked bag instead of a carry-on.

See all Frontier Airlines carry-on policies.

See all Hawaiian Airlines carry-on policies.

If you booked a Blue Basic ticket, you're only permitted to bring a personal item that fits under the seat in front of you. If you bring a carry-on bag, you will have to pay $65 to check it at the gate (or up to $180 if you've already checked two other bags). However, select customers with Blue Basic fares can bring carry-on bags for free. These include:

• Active U.S. military personnel
• Unaccompanied minors
• Customers flying to London

If you purchase a higher-class seat or if you reach Mosaic status on JetBlue's TrueBlue rewards program , you can also bring a carry-on bag for free on a Blue Basic ticket.

See all JetBlue carry-on policies.

See all Southwest Airlines carry-on policies.

Spirit's carry-on bag fees vary between flights, but they tend to start at around $25 to $30 for U.S. domestic flights. If you need to bring carry-on luggage, it's always cheapest to pay for it when you first book your flight. It will cost you more to add a bag afterward – and at least double the initial fee if you do it at the airport.

See all Spirit Airlines carry-on policies.

The Sun Country Airlines fee for a carry-on bag is around $30 if you pay for it when booking, or more if you add it later.

See all Sun Country carry-on policies.

There's one notable exception for carry-on baggage with United: Passengers with a basic economy ticket can only   take one personal item on board – no carry-on bag. This policy applies to travelers flying basic economy domestically or between the U.S. and Canada. If you have a basic economy ticket and are going to Central or South America (including Mexico) or taking trans-Atlantic or trans-Pacific flights, you can bring a full-size carry-on bag.

See all United Airlines carry-on policies.

Aer Lingus' carry-on policy depends on where you're flying. For trans-Atlantic flights, you can bring one carry-on bag within the dimensions above, plus a small personal item for free. If you're flying within Europe on Aer Lingus, the rules are a bit different: You'll have to pay a fee to bring a carry-on with you on board, starting at 5.99 euros. However, you can check that same bag for free.

If you're flying Aer Lingus Regional (a service with smaller planes, flying mostly around Ireland and the U.K.), a smaller carry-on limit applies: 18.5 x 13 x 8 inches, with a weight limit of 15 pounds.

See all Aer Lingus carry-on policies.

All Aeroméxico customers can bring a standard carry-on bag and a personal item on board. Be careful with the weight limit, though: For international flights or basic fare flights within Mexico, these two items combined cannot weigh more than 22 pounds. So, if your carry-on bag weighs 15 pounds, for example, your personal item cannot be more than 7 pounds.

See all Aeroméxico carry-on policies.

While there's no weight limit for carry-on luggage, Air Canada says your carry-on bag should be light enough that it can easily be lifted into the overhead bin. Also note that airport purchases (for example, larger duty-free items) count toward your baggage limit.

See all Air Canada carry-on policies.

Note that both your personal item and carry-on bag (referred to as "hand baggage") combined must not weigh more than 26 pounds if you're traveling economy. The weight limit is 40 pounds for premium economy and other higher-class cabins.

See all Air France carry-on policies.

A variety of personal items (think a handbag and umbrella) are permitted as long as they fit under the seat in front of you; this includes any items purchased at the airport.

See all All Nippon Airways carry-on policies.

If airline staff put a yellow tag on your bag, it should be stored under the seat in front of you.

See all British Airways carry-on policies.

Cathay Pacific has shifted from a weight allowance to a piece allowance, and this policy varies by itinerary. Passengers are generally permitted to bring one carry-on bag plus a small personal item (and assistive devices like a walking stick), but it's best to check your booking carefully to confirm the exact allowance. You're asked to check in any baggage that's too heavy to lift into the overhead compartment.

See all Cathay Pacific carry-on policies.

Since easyJet is a budget airline, standard fares only allow customers to bring one personal item (called a "small cabin bag") aboard for free. Fees for standard carry-on bags are between 5.99 and 32.99 British pounds, depending on your destination and when you add an extra bag to your reservation.

See all easyJet carry-on policies.

The above rules apply to all economy passengers except those traveling from Brazil, whose carry-on luggage can weigh up to 22 pounds. Emirates only allows economy passengers to bring one item on board; whether you bring a carry-on bag for the overhead bin or a personal item to tuck under the seat, this bag must comply with the size limits.

See all Emirates carry-on policies.

Be aware that the 22-pound weight limit applies to both your personal item and carry-on combined. If your flight was booked through Iberia but is operated by Vueling, similar rules apply, but the size limits for your carry-on bags are slightly smaller.

See all Iberia carry-on policies.

If you're traveling on the cheaper Light ticket, you may be asked to check your carry-on bag for no extra cost, if space is limited.

See all KLM Royal Dutch Airlines carry-on policies.

See all Lufthansa carry-on policies.

The above rules apply to LowFare+ customers. Passengers who fly LowFare (comparable to Basic Economy fare) can only bring a personal item (underseat bag) measuring 15 x 11.5 x 7.5 inches.

See all Norwegian carry-on policies.

Qantas 

Economy passengers can opt to bring a nonrigid garment bag measuring 45 x 24 x 4 inches (or 73 linear inches) instead of a standard 22 x 14 x 9-inch carry-on bag. The above rules apply to all economy tickets and vary for higher classes on international and domestic flights with Qantas.

See all Qantas carry-on luggage policies.

Qatar Airways allows passengers to bring multiple personal items provided they fit under the seat in front of you. Unlike with other airlines, laptops and laptop bags do not count as personal items and must fit within your main hand baggage allowance. For tickets issued in Brazil, the carry-on weight limit is 22 pounds.

Be careful: Qatar doesn't accept carry-ons longer than 20 inches, which is shorter than many other airlines.

See all Qatar Airways carry-on policies.

Ryanair is a low-cost carrier, so unless you pay extra, you can only bring one small bag that fits under the seat in front of you, per the personal item guidelines above. To bring a larger carry-on bag, travelers need to purchase Ryanair's Priority & 2 Cabin Bags option, which typically costs between 6 and 32 euros depending on your destination.

See all Ryanair carry-on policies.

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Most (but not all) Scandinavian Airlines fares allow you to bring one traditional carry-on bag, plus a personal item, which SAS calls an "underseat bag." There's one exception: Passengers traveling within Europe on the Go Light fare must pay for a larger carry-on bag. If you booked a Go Light ticket for intercontinental flights, a carry-on bag is included.

See all Scandinavian Airlines carry-on policies.

Singapore Airlines has an unusual method for measuring carry-on bags – the dimensions of the bag must not add up to more than 45 linear inches total. For example, a bag measuring 15 x 15 x 15 inches would be suitable. All passengers can bring one bag of this size, plus a smaller personal item. The personal item, whose dimensions are specified above, does not count toward the 15-pound carry-on limit.

See all Singapore Airlines carry-on policies.

See all Turkish Airlines carry-on policies.

Virgin Atlantic lets every passenger bring a carry-on bag, including children younger than age 2. You can bring a bag weighing no more than 13 pounds for your child, in addition to a collapsible stroller and/or car seat. Each passenger is also allowed to bring a handbag or small backpack, an umbrella, a walking stick and airport purchases. Take note: Laptops do not count as personal items on Virgin Atlantic and should fit into your main carry-on bag. There's no specific size limit on the other personal items, but bags or airport purchases should fit under the seat in front of you.

See all Virgin Atlantic carry-on policies.

Note that the above rules apply to passengers who book a TimeFlex or Premium Fare, as well as anyone traveling with a child under age 2 and/or requiring special assistance at the airport.

See all Vueling carry-on policies.

See all WestJet carry-on policies.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Amanda Norcross is a seasoned traveler who packs just one carry-on bag and a personal item – even when adventuring with her toddler . She used her personal experience and research skills to put together this guide, and notes that even if your carry-on bag meets size restrictions, you may still need to check it at the gate because of limited space in the overhead bin. Luckily, it's still free.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Carry-on Backpacks
• What Is Allowed in a Carry-on?
• What to Pack in a Carry-on Bag
• The Best Travel Insurance Companies

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• Fact Sheets

Fact Sheet: Presidential Proclamation to Suspend and Limit Entry and Joint DHS-DOJ Interim Final Rule to Restrict Asylum During High Encounters at the Southern Border

Today, the Biden-Harris Administration took decisive new action to strengthen border security, announcing a series of measures that restrict asylum eligibility, and significantly increase the consequences for those who enter without authorization across the southern border. These extraordinary steps, which will be in effect during times when high levels of encounters exceed our ability to deliver timely consequences, will make noncitizens who enter across the southern border ineligible for asylum with certain exceptions, raise the standard that is used to screen for certain protection claims, and speed up our ability to quickly remove those who do not qualify for protection.

These actions follow a series of steps that the Administration has taken over the past three years as it prepared for the end of the Title 42 public health Order, and since it was lifted last year, including surging personnel, infrastructure, and technology to the border, issuing the Circumvention of Lawful Pathways Rule, and referring record numbers of noncitizens into expedited removal. Over the past year, we have removed or returned more than three quarters of a million people, more than in any fiscal year since 2010. Despite these efforts, our outdated and broken immigration and asylum system, coupled with a lack of sufficient funding, make it impossible to quickly impose consequences on all noncitizens who cross irregularly and without a legal basis to remain in the United States.

The Administration has repeatedly called on Congress to provide the resources and legal authorities needed to secure our border. The measures announced today will better enable the Department to quickly remove individuals without a legal basis to remain in the United States, strengthening enforcement and change the calculus for those considering crossing our border irregularly. However, they are no substitute for Congressional action. We continue to call on Congress to provide the new tools and resources we have asked for to support the men and women on the frontlines.

President Biden issued a Presidential Proclamation to temporarily suspend the entry of noncitizens across the southern border. The Secretary of Homeland Security and the Attorney General also jointly issued an interim final rule that, consistent with the Proclamation, generally restricts asylum eligibility for those who irregularly enter across the southern border – including the Southwest land and the southern coastal borders. The rule also limits fear screenings to those who manifest a fear or express a desire to file for protection and heightens the screening standard for statutory withholding and claims under the Convention Against Torture. Taken together, these measures will significantly increase the speed and scope of consequences for those who cross our borders irregularly or who attempt to present themselves at Ports of Entry without authorization, allowing the Departments to more quickly remove individuals who do not establish a legal basis to remain in the United States. The restriction on asylum eligibility will be discontinued when encounters fall below certain levels but will come back into effect if encounters rise again.

The rule makes three key changes to current processing under Title 8 immigration authorities during periods of high border encounters:

• First, noncitizens who cross the southern border unlawfully or without authorization will generally be ineligible for asylum, absent exceptionally compelling circumstances and unless they are excepted by the Proclamation.
• Second, noncitizens who cross the southern border and are processed for expedited removal while the limitation is in effect will only be referred for a credible fear screening with an Asylum Officer if they manifest or express a fear of return to their country or country of removal, a fear of persecution or torture, or an intention to apply for asylum.  
• Third, the U.S. will continue to adhere to its international obligations and commitments by screening individuals who manifest a fear as noted above and do not qualify for an exception to the Rule for withholding of removal and Convention Against Torture protections at a reasonable probability of persecution or torture standard – a new, substantially higher standard than is currently applied under the Circumvention of Lawful Pathways rule.  

Like the Proclamation, the rule provides for an end to these enhanced measures following a sustained reduction in southern border encounters. Specifically, these measures are in effect until 14 calendar days after there has been a 7-consecutive-calendar-day average of less than 1,500 encounters between the ports of entry. The measures would again go into effect, or continue, as appropriate, when there has been a 7-consecutive-calendar-day average of 2,500 encounters or more.

During periods of high encounters, the Proclamation will apply across the southern border. Lawful permanent residents, unaccompanied children, victims of a severe form of trafficking, and other noncitizens with a valid visa or other lawful permission to enter the United States are excepted from the Proclamation.

In addition, the suspension and limitation on entry and rule will not apply to noncitizens who use a Secretary-approved process—such as the CBP One mobile app—to enter the United States at a port of entry in a safe and orderly manner or pursue another lawful pathway.

Noncitizens who cross the southern border and who are not excepted from the Proclamation will be ineligible for asylum unless exceptionally compelling circumstances exist, including if the noncitizen demonstrates that they or a member of their family with whom they are traveling:

• faced an acute medical emergency;
• faced an imminent and extreme threat to life or safety, such as an imminent threat of rape, kidnapping, torture, or murder; or
• satisfied the definition of “victim of a severe form of trafficking in persons” currently provided in 8 CFR 214.11.

Consequences

Noncitizens who are subject to the rule’s limitation on asylum eligibility and who manifest or express a fear of return to their country or country of removal, express a fear of persecution or torture or an intention to apply for asylum, but do not establish a reasonable probability of persecution or torture in the country of removal will be promptly removed.

Those ordered removed will be subject to at least a five-year bar to reentry and potential criminal prosecution.

The Proclamation and rule will significantly enhance the security of our border by increasing the Departments’ ability to impose swift consequences for individuals who cross the southern border irregularly and do not establish a legal basis to remain in the United States.  Together, the Proclamation and rule make critical changes to how the Departments operate during times when encounters are at historically high levels—levels that, in the absence of these changes, undermine the government’s ability to process individuals through the expedited removal process. These changes will enable the Departments to quickly return those without a lawful basis to stay in the United States and thereby free up the asylum system for those with legitimate claims.

These extraordinary measures are a stop gap. Even with these measures in place, the Departments continue to lack the authorities and resources needed to adequately support the men and women on the frontlines. The Administration again calls on Congress to take up and pass the bipartisan reforms proposed in the Senate, which provide the new authorities, personnel, and resources that are needed to address the historic global migration that is impacting countries throughout the world, including our own. Until Congress does its part, we will continue to take any actions needed under current law and within existing resources to secure the border.

• Border Security
• Immigration
• Biden-Harris Administration
• Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
• Department of Justice (DOJ)

Euro 2024: How Germany is ramping up security for 'high-risk' England game

More than 300,000 British fans are expected to travel to Germany for the tournament, making it their highest attendance since Euro 2016 in France.

Europe correspondent @SiobhanRobbins

Tuesday 11 June 2024 09:36, UK

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Germany is ramping up security ahead of the start of Euro 2024, with England's tie against Serbia seen by police as high risk.

The heightened security in Gelsenkirchen for England's opening group game on Sunday means fans will be served lower alcohol beer in the stadium and will not be able to drink in the stands.

Policing will be more challenging as UEFA has asked for barriers to be removed and both sides will be seated close together, with two-thirds of tickets going to mixed areas.

"I think it's a very high-risk game because of the history, because of the hooligans both sides have," Chief Inspector Christof Burghardt told Sky News.

"Serbia has many hooligans. The English guys, with alcohol, they are sometimes very aggressive. So it's a great job to do this, to prepare, so that hopefully nothing will happen."

Ahead of the game, we joined officers at a league match in Gelsenkirchen which they used as a test run.

At the gates, fans were randomly checked for weapons and booze.

More on Euro 2024

Scots party in Munich ahead of Euro 2024's opening game against Germany

Scotland's Euro 2024 opener against Germany an opportunity to land shock result - not a free hit, says Chris Sutton

Euro 2024: Tartan Army head to Munich for Scotland v Germany opener

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Inside, police watched over the crowd at the potentially volatile clash, on alert for troublemakers.

Using CCTV to surveil the crowd, they spotted a group of masked ultras gathering in the stands and carefully monitored them.

Read more: Prince Louis offers advice to England squad ahead of Euro 2024

Germany is hoping to avoid a repeat of riots that year which marred the event and resulted in more than 1,500 arrests.

Fans who breach German public order laws have been warned they could be marched to a cashpoint to pay an on-the-spot fine.

British police have been sharing intelligence and will send the largest deployment of officers since 2016.

So-called police spotters will be on hand to help tackle antisocial behaviour and drink-fuelled violence, trying to talk to fans before things get out of hand.

Read more: Man charged with 'voyeurism' at Taylor Swift's show Sunak and Starmer to face questions from Beth Rigby

Many of the worst offenders have been stopped from travelling altogether.

"We currently have approximately 2,000 people on the banning order which basically means they can't travel to tournaments and they can't go into football stadiums," explains Chief Superintendent Colette Rose, from UK Football Policing.

"Over 2,000 troublemakers away from football has made it a much safer place. When you play that out over the last eight to ten years the behaviour of football fans has been far, far better. We have no arrests in Qatar and we had very, very few arrests in the tournaments preceding that."

Policing the Euros is a complex challenge because it's not just about keeping the 2.7 million fans safe in the 10 stadiums where the games are being played, there are also the 12 million in the fan zones to look after.

Germany's interior minister, Nancy Faeser, said everything is being done to ensure the event is safe.

"You can never 100% guarantee security but we are well-prepared and remain very vigilant," she said.

Some 22,000 federal police officers will be on duty every day of the tournament.

Security is being stepped up at borders and train stations with the support of officers from other countries and 16,000 volunteers.

Keep up with all the latest news from the UK and around the world by following Sky News

In Thuringia, where England have their base camp, police have also been doing drills.

In one scenario, riot police practised stopping hooligans armed with flares and weapons on a train.

They admitted the tense global situation makes security more complex.

"In my opinion, the risk is definitely higher," said Police Director Frank Haring. "Because of current political events in Ukraine, in Russia and the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians, terrorist groups could potentially use events like the European Championship for an attack."

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On Friday, police arrested a man at Cologne airport on suspicion of supporting Islamic State. He's being held in custody.

In a separate incident, a police officer was killed and five other people were injured when an alleged Islamist extremist carried out a knife attack in Mannheim at the end of May.

Despite the risk, Germany says it is ready and can protect the millions of football fans coming here.

Related Topics

Why Traveling Around Africa Is Difficult for Africans

I was scrolling on social media when a post caught my eye. Green Ranger Safaris , a travel company I'd never heard of, was organizing a road trip through seven African countries. This trip would start in Nairobi, Kenya, then head down into Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Namibia, and Botswana. The pricing was reasonable, so I paid a deposit, brushing aside concerns about both spending weeks on end with a group of strangers and the slight chance that the trip might have been an excellently worded scam.

A few months later, in August, I was on a truck with those strangers. It was late in the evening, and we swept through the Kalahari Desert in northern Botswana, the sun in the sky a flaming orb, the only visible life on the sand of the desert being the shrubs, the wild horses, and the herds of elephants. Music swirled from the truck's speakers, a mishmash of popular Kenyan songs from the turn of the century and Nigerian megahits. The countries we were traveling to had been chosen mostly because they were all English-speaking and provided visa-free travel to Kenyans, so the border crossings were simple, with clearances for the trucks, stamps for our passports and, in Botswana, disinfectant for our shoes.

Talk among the passengers was already turning toward doing similar trips in other parts of Africa. One suggested starting in Namibia, sweeping down along the coast into South Africa, moving through the megacities there, then traveling to Lesotho and Eswatini before entering Mozambique. Another pitched a West Africa trip. It all sounded exciting. Everything was possible. But then another passenger brought up Niger, where a coup had just led to the country's closure of its borders. What would happen if a person took a West Africa road trip and then there was a coup? Would the passenger have to stay there and never go home? We laughed at the absurdity. But behind the laughter was real heartache. Because the reality is that any African traveler has thought about the difficulty of traveling as an African.

My mother was a traveler, and when she traveled for work, my brothers and I would travel in Kenya with her. Then, when I was older, the expanse of my travel grew larger: First I traveled around Kenya, then around East Africa. Now I have a desire to explore the continent, to explore versions of myself in other countries in Africa, home to some of the most humbling and impressive landscapes and vistas in the world: to the largest freestanding mountain on earth (Kilimanjaro); to the largest hot desert in the world (Sahara); to thundering waterfalls twice as wide and deep as Niagara (Victoria); to sparkling white-sand beaches; to UNESCO-listed nature reserves; to cities whose histories stretch back through millennia; and to award-winning wine regions. But I find myself marooned before the bank of difficulties other African travelers face.

A few months after my Green Ranger trip, I spoke to Anneli Douglas, an academic at the University of Pretoria in South Africa who has studied travel in Africa. She pointed out how much easier it is for Western visitors to get visas for Africa than it is for African travelers to visit their countries. "Sometimes, travelers have to travel long distances to apply for a visa, or there might not even be representation of the destination country in the home country, making it difficult to obtain a visa at all," she says. "Also, for Western countries, the cost to obtain a visa to Africa is much cheaper than what it is for Africans-considering the value of the local currency."

In places like Kenya, African destinations are rarely marketed to would-be travelers. Instead, there is a surfeit of packages offering holiday trips in destinations like Dubai, Bangkok, and Istanbul, because it is not only easier but also often cheaper to organize trips to these places than it is to organize trips within the continent. Even when visas are relatively easily attainable, travel from one African country to another is rife with difficulties. Sam Maundu, a Nairobi-based tour operator who runs Rosolo Safaris , which organizes trips around Africa, had no shortage of factors ready when I asked what these difficulties are: "Language barriers, visa restrictions, expensive flights, African destinations not targeting Africans to visit, long distances to be covered either by road or by flight since there are often no direct flights, security situations in some places, perception that there is nothing to see in other African countries, harassment by border officials."

One of the lingering effects of colonialism on the continent is that interaction between African countries tends to exist along mostly colonial lines: There are the former Portuguese colonies, the former British colonies, the former French colonies. Passport holders from Kenya, which was colonized by Britain, are mostly able to go to former British colonies visa-free or with visa-on-arrival status. This means that for a person planning a trip, it becomes easier to think of traveling to these countries. On our multiple-country road trip, the travelers were mostly holders of Kenyan and Ugandan passports (Uganda, another former British colony), and so the countries that the trucks went to were all-except for Namibia-former vestiges of the British Empire. This shared history meant also that because all these countries have English as an official language, it would be relatively easy for us travelers to communicate with people there.

Samuel Agblorti is a lecturer at the Centre for Mixed Migration and Diaspora Studies of the University of Cape Coast in Ghana. I ask him about about a hypothetical trip from Cameroon to Senegal, across a region where multiple coups have happened in recent years. Safety concerns rising from these events had further entrenched visa restrictions across Africa. "Because our borders aren't very well protected, there is a fear that allowing too many visitors will make it unsafe," Agblorti tells me. But even getting those visitors has been a problem.

In 2016, the African Union announced plans for an AU passport to be rolled out by 2020. This passport would open travel across the continent, as more African citizens wouldn't need visas to travel to other African countries. However, more than seven years later, the passport hasn't been launched, stymied by a mixture of security concerns and protectionist attitudes among African states. (The AU remains silent on when and if the passport will be launched.) Still, Agblorti says such a passport would not necessarily be the panacea that its supporters think it would be as it wouldn't automatically lead to visa-free travel without individual states implementing it. He gave the example of regional blocs such as the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), whose membership comprises 15 West African states whose citizens hold ECOWAS passports. "Even within ECOWAS, there are protocols that member countries are supposed to adhere to, but some of them don't," he says. "You may have a common passport, but if the countries don't make extra commitments, then it doesn't matter."

Thus far, only a handful of African countries have committed to allowing African visitors to visit without a visa: Gambia, Benin, and Seychelles; Rwanda has announced plans to implement this. On a small scale, then, African visitors to these countries will experience the promise of the AU passport-if it does indeed come to fruition.

Most recently, in December 2023, rather than introduce the visa-free status its president had promised , Kenya announced that it would require an electronic travel authorization (ETA) , to increase revenue from visitors seeking to enter Kenya. Visa-free entry was scrapped for all but five other East African countries, and new travel requirements and fees were introduced for countries whose citizens had previously enjoyed visa-free travel into Kenya. To some, the doors of entry-rather than being flung open-were being closed even tighter.

Another issue is how expensive it is to travel in Africa. According to a 2013 World Bank report , airfare within Africa is roughly 50 percent more expensive than airfare in comparable locations worldwide. Flights from one African country to the other tend to be much more expensive than flights from Africa to Europe and Asia, despite logic that the shorter the distance, the cheaper the flight ought to be. This means, in effect, that a traveler from Kampala, Uganda, would find it more affordable, and therefore more attractive, to fly to Dubai than to Maputo, Mozambique, despite the latter being much closer than the UAE.

Tour operator Maundu told me that this makes it difficult for him to suggest to his clients travel packages that involve other African destinations: Often, it means the cost of the round-trip air tickets more than doubles the cost of the entire travel package. And there aren't always reliable road or rail options that offer alternative transport to travelers. Most leisure travelers can't move directly by rail from Kenya to South Africa (there is a luxury train network between Tanzania and South Africa that costs $19,000), while in most other regions of the continent, not only are there no multicountry rail options, but also existing bus networks rely on terrible roads.

The irregularity or non-availability of intra-regional air connections and of internal air transport also constrains access to internal destinations and prevents progress with multicountry tourism packages, Maundu says. Also, tax rates per passenger in Africa are more expensive than they are on other continents: The total tax per passenger is about $64, compared to $30.23 in Europe and $29.65 in the Middle East. This is exacerbated by the lack of a single unified aviation market, whose absence means that fares and tax rates swing with volatility across different parts of the continent.

Rather than negotiate with one central body, airlines operating in Africa deal with individual countries, which each usually have different rates and requirements for entry. In Europe, for instance, the establishment of the European Common Aviation Area (ECAA) in 2006 decreased airfares across Europe by making possible the rise of a fleet of low-cost airlines, and at the same time increased the volume of flights within European airports. In this vein, there have been attempts to establish a single aviation market in Africa. The most recent of these attempts is the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM). Announced in 2018 , the SAATM so far has signed on 34 countries. However, like the AU passport before it, the SAATM has not been implemented, and so it remains nothing but an idea.

In the meantime, African travelers continue to dream. Travel plans continue to be made. Potential destinations continue to be talked about. At the end of our seven-country road trip, as we headed back to Kenya, we spoke again about organizing future trips together, our group of strangers now bonded as friends. Some people discussed taking a trip to Uganda over the next month. Others talked about heading across the Indian Ocean to Mauritius. In Lusaka, Zambia, where the first batch of travelers would leave us to fly back to Nairobi, weepy goodbyes were made. "We are family," one of them said.

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A List of All 62 National Park Pet Restrictions

California’s Yosemite National Park was the first park we visited with our dogs. We knew we’d be limited in what we could experience. Dogs aren’t allowed on any trails in Yosemite. So, we were prepared to let our dogs, Brickle and Digby, gaze out of the windows and walk them in parking areas and campgrounds.

Although less than ideal, this experience started our love of travel with dogs. We are happy to make adjustments to our national park visits so that they can be with us. If we want to see something where pets aren’t allowed, we have the luxury of RV camping nearby so Brickle and Digby can rest while we explore.

It’s easy to feel defensive when you first read pet rules at different national parks. After all, our pets are our family. But when we look at the big picture of preservation, and the safety and security of park residents, it’s easier to accept. We wish all pet parents could see the importance of picking up after their dogs and keeping them on a leash when visiting these national treasures. But the fact is, they do not.

On a trip to Yellowstone, we shockingly witnessed a traveler let his dog off-leash to chase bison. Don’t be that pet parent! Doing your research ahead of time saves disappointment for you and your pets. Find a park you can both enjoy. No matter the specific rules and regulations of each park, always pick up after your dog and keep your dog on a leash that is 6 feet or shorter.

A Note on National Parks and their Pet Restrictions

Because this information changes quickly and often, please double-check with the individual park you choose to confirm that it is up to date. Before visiting, check pet restrictions on each park’s official National Park Service webpage , as regulations vary or change based on environmental conditions and park management updates and decisions.

Acadia National Park | Maine

The beauty of Acadia National Park is simply refreshing. Pets are permitted on roughly 100 miles of hiking trails and 45 miles of carriage roads. This was really great news to us! As we were unable to get reservations, we camped right outside the park’s borders and were able to drive to many trails.

Blackwoods, Seawall, and Schoodic Woods campgrounds permit pets. On Isle au Haut, pets are permitted for day hiking only.

• Most lakes in the park are public water supplies. Pets and people may not swim in them.
• Sand Beach (June 15-Sept 8) and Echo Lake (May 15-Sept 15) are off-limits to pets.
• Public buildings and ranger-led programs are off-limits to pets.

Pets are not allowed at Wild Gardens of Acadia (Sieur de Monts) or Duck Harbor Campground. 

The park trails that are closed to pets include:

• Ladder Trail to Dorr Mountain
• Beech Cliffs Trail
• Perpendicular Trail (Mansell Mountain)
• Jordan Cliffs Trail between Penobscot East Trail and the carriage road

Park trails not recommended for pets include:

• Acadia Mountain
• Flying Mountain
• Giant Slide
• Cadillac Mountain (west face)
• Bubble and Jordan Ponds Path (between the carriage road and The Featherbed Pond)
• Norembega Goat Trail
• Bubbles-Pemetic Trail
• Penobscot Mountain (Spring) Trail
• Upper Beachcroft Trail
• Upper Gorge Trail

Discover Our Full Guide to Acadia National Park RV Camping

Arches National Park | Utah

Arches National Park is a great drive for senior pets with plenty of scenery right outside your car window. Leashed pets may accompany you along established roads, in established campgrounds, or in parking and picnic areas.

Pets are not allowed in the following locations:

• On any hiking trails or anywhere off-trail, even while in a carrier
• At any overlooks
• In the visitor center or any building

Learn more about Arches National Park RV Camping

Badlands National Park | South Dakota

Don’t be bad at Badlands . Pets are only permitted in developed areas, such as campgrounds and picnic areas, and other areas open to motor vehicles, such as gravel and paved roadways, roadway corridors, and parking lots.

Pets are prohibited from the following areas:

• Hiking trails
• Public buildings
• Backcountry areas, including the Badlands Wilderness Area
• Areas with prairie dog colonies

Find Badlands National Park RV Camping Tips

Big Bend National Park | Texas

Seeing Brickle and Digby gaze at the Rio Grande from a parking area was still a great picture-taking opportunity and they enjoyed the drives within the park. We camped outside Big Bend National Park , and our biggest lesson was to have ample water for us and our pets because the quality of water is questionable in most areas surrounding the park.

• On the river
• Into Mexico at the Boquillas Port of Entry

Your pet can only go where your car can go. If you plan to hike or take a river trip, someone must stay behind with the pet, or you will need to make arrangements with a kennel service. There is no kennel service in the park.

Find out more about Big Bend National Park RV Camping.

Biscayne National Park | Florida

Pets are welcome on the grounds surrounding the visitor center and the developed areas of Elliott Key as long as they are on a leash and attended to. Biscayne National Park is home to a diverse array of wildlife. Admire from a distance, and do not disturb the animals!

Pets are not allowed in these areas:

• The visitor center
• On Boca Chita Key, including on boats docked in the harbor

Explore our guide to Biscayne National Park RV Camping.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park | Colorado

On-leash pets may be walked on roads, in campgrounds, and to the overlooks. Pets are also allowed on the Cedar Point Nature Trail, North Rim Chasm View Nature Trail, and Rim Rock Trail inside Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park . You can also bring pets to ranger evening programs in the campground amphitheater, provided they don’t bark.

Pets are not allowed in the following park locations:

• Any other hiking trails
• Cross-country ski trails
• Inner canyon wilderness

From approximately June 1 to August 15, dogs are allowed in campsites, but may not be taken on walks (even on a leash), and may not be carried around the South Rim Campground or on the Rim Rock Trail due to potentially aggressive deer protecting their fawns.

Explore our guide to Black Canyon of the Gunnison RV Camping.

Bryce Canyon National Park | Utah

You can only enjoy the park with your pets while on paved surfaces in Bryce Canyon National Park .

Pets are permitted in these areas:

• Campgrounds
• Parking lots
• Paved roads
• All paved viewpoint areas except Piracy Point
• On the paved trail (section of Rim Trail) between Sunset Point and Sunrise Point
• On the paved Shared Use Path between the park entrance and Inspiration Point

Pets are NOT permitted in these areas:

• At unpaved viewpoints and at the paved Piracy Point viewpoint area
• In public buildings
• On public transportation vehicles

These regulations also apply to pets that are carried. Pets must be on a leash at all times and the leash must be no longer than 6 feet. Pet owners may not leave pet(s) unattended or tied to an object. Pets may not be left in vehicles while their owners hike. Be aware that idling and generator use is not permitted in park parking lots.

Learn more about Bryce Canyon RV Camping.

Canyonlands National Park | Utah

Leashed pets may accompany you along established front-country roads or in parking areas in Canyonlands National Park . They are also allowed in established front-country campgrounds and picnic areas.

• On any hiking trails
• Anywhere off-trail
• In the visitor center or in any building
• In the backcountry (including vehicles on backcountry roads, and on any river trips)

Pets may be transported inside vehicles driving the Shafer Trail to Potash Road at Island in the Sky. When the road to Beef Basin via Cathedral Butte is closed by snow or mud, persons with pets are allowed to cross the Needles district via the Elephant Hill-Devil’s Lane/Bobby’s Hole roads. Pets must be on a leash at all times when not in the vehicle and must remain on the designated road surface only.

Explore our guide to Canyonlands RV Camping.

Capitol Reef National Park | Utah

We LOVE Capitol Reef National Park . We walked Brickle and Digby through the park’s campground, which was an unmatched experience with unmatched scenery. Although we could not get reservations here, we boondocked on public land outside the park and drove in. A welcome part of this was that we got a bit of a cell signal outside the park to work!

Pets are allowed on leash in these areas:

• In the developed areas of the park
• On the trail from the visitor center to the Fruita Campground
• On the Fremont River Trail from the campground to the south end of Hattie’s Field
• In unfenced and/or unlocked orchards (the apples were certainly unexpected treats!)
• In the Chesnut and Doc Inglesby picnic areas, and in campgrounds.
• Within 50 feet of the centerline of roads (paved and dirt) open to public vehicle travel
• In parking areas open to public vehicle travel
• On other hiking trails
• In the backcountry

Carlsbad Caverns National Park | New Mexico

For our trip to Carlsbad Caverns National Park , we let Brickle and Digby enjoy a nap in the RV as we toured the caverns.

Pets are not allowed in the following areas:

• On unpaved park trails on the surface
• During the Bat Flight Program
• In the visitor center

You are also not allowed to leave your pet unattended in vehicles. They must be kenneled. The park concessioner, Carlsbad Caverns Trading Company, operates a kennel service where you may leave your pet in a temperature-controlled environment while you tour the cavern. The kennel is for day use only and no overnight stays. This service is provided on a first-come, first-served basis.

Discover more about Carlsbad Caverns National Park RV Camping.

Channel Islands National Park | California

Pets are not allowed in Channel Islands National Park to protect island wildlife.

According to the park, some of the diseases and parasites that now threaten the fox may have been carried to the islands by animals from the mainland. Although it’s not accessible by RV, this guide can help you learn more about camping in Channel Islands National Park .

Congaree National Park | South Carolina

Congaree National Park welcomes all visitors and their pets! Pets are allowed on all trails, including the boardwalk, and in the campgrounds. Although we enjoyed the diverse scenery of this national park, the heat was an issue for our senior dogs. Bring plenty of water, and if your dog is reactive to other dogs, there are few places to get away on a boardwalk.

Find more information about camping in Congaree.

Crater Lake National Park | Oregon

What a magical place with beautiful water views! Rules for pets at Crater Lake National Park depend on the season. Pets on a leash are allowed on paved roads that are free of significant snow, in parking lots, and up to 50 feet away from these paved, snow-free areas. In the summer and fall, walk your dog along the 1/4-mile paved promenade at Rim Village, where you can get views of the lake. You will see many other travelers with pets here and many pictures being taken!

You can also walk your dog through the campground loops at Mazama Village and along parking lot snowbanks in the winter, so long as you don’t venture more than 50 feet away. This was a treat for Brickle who loves snow!

In the summer and fall, pets are also allowed on several of the park’s hiking trails. These trails are nice walks but do not offer any views of the lake:

• The Godfrey Glen Trail, as long as the trail is free of significant snow
• The Lady of the Woods Trail, as long as the trail is free of significant snow
• Annie Spur Trail, which connects PCT hikers to the Rim Village
• The Grayback Drive, as long as the trail is free of significant snow
• The Pacific Crest Trail (the official PCT, not the “alternate” PCT along the rim of the lake)
• In the winter and spring, pets are allowed only on one park trail which is the Pacific Crest Trail. The Pacific Crest Trail is open year-round to pets, whether it is covered by snow or not.
• On other park trails
• On unplowed roads
• Inside park buildings, including Crater Lake Lodge and the Mazama Village Cabins
• On boat tours (except for service animals)

Use our guide to learn more about Crater Lake RV Camping.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park | Ohio

There are over 110 miles of hiking trails and twenty miles of the multi-use Towpath Trail in Cuyahoga Valley National Park where pets are permitted. This park is different from any other National Park we have visited. Often, we thought we were in residential areas, as the park is so expansive. Make sure to download or pick up a map and don’t get confused like we did!

• Any park building
• On the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad Train
• On the East Rim mountain bike trails
• At Virginia Kendall Hills during sledding activities

Plan your RV camping trip to Cuyahoga Valley with this guide.

Death Valley National Park | California and Nevada

Pets are welcome in developed areas, which is wherever a car can go inside Death Valley National Park . However, the National Park Service is adamant that they do not recommend bringing pets to the park from late spring through early fall, mainly due to heat-related issues.

Pets are not permitted in the following areas:

• On any park trails or in the wilderness
• The boardwalks at Badwater and Salt Creek
• Any paved trails
• In park buildings, such as visitor centers or historic structures
• On Ranger-led tours

Roads suggested by the park that are available to enjoy exploring with your pet:

• 20 Mule Team Canyon
• Devil’s Golf Course Road
• Father Crowley Point spur road to Padre Point
• Furnace Creek Airport Road
• Lake Hill Road
• Mustard Canyon Road
• Titus Canyon Road
• Cottonwood-Marble Access Road

Explore our complete guide to Death Valley RV Camping.

Denali National Park | Alaska

Pets may be walked on the park road, in parking lots, or on campground roads within Denali National Park .

Pets are not permitted in these areas:

• On park trails, with the exception of the Roadside Trail and the Bike Path (must be on a leash)
• Off-trail in the wilderness
• On any of the various buses in Denali

Learn more about camping in Denali National Park.

Dry Tortugas National Park | Florida

Remember that you have to get to Dry Tortugas National Park by boat! Does your pet enjoy the water? How is your pet with high temperatures? Pets are permitted on Garden Key but not inside Fort Jefferson. Pets are not permitted on any other key in the park. The only way to get to the park is by boat or seaplane. The commercial ferry and the seaplane do not allow pets onboard. Visitors arriving by personal boats are welcome to bring pets.

Discover our guide to RV camping near Dry Tortugas.

Everglades National Park | Florida

In Everglades National Park , regulations allow park officials to close areas to pets and service animals if they deem that access would pose a health risk to visitors or wildlife. So, keep an eye on current park alerts leading up to and during your visit.

Generally, pets are permitted in these areas:

• On roadways open to vehicular traffic
• In roadside campgrounds and picnic areas
• On maintained grounds surrounding public facilities and residential areas
• On private boats
• On unpaved roads and trails
• On boardwalk trails
• On the Shark Valley Tram Trail

Use our complete guide to Everglades RV camping to plan your trip.

Gates of the Arctic National Park | Alaska

There are no closed areas for pets in Gates of the Arctic National Park & Preserve . Many visitors employ personal floatation devices for pets when traveling on rivers or lakes, as the water is often very cold and swift. Both communities of Bettles and Anaktuvuk Pass have strict pet leash policies.

That said, it’s important to be very cautious with your pets in this wilderness environment. Their presence can attract wildlife, leading to potentially dangerous and unwanted encounters with defensive wildlife. For your safety, and that of the park’s wildlife and natural resources, pets must be controlled or restrained at all times.

Use our guide to plan your camping trip to Gates of the Arctic.

Gateway Arch National Park | Missouri and Illinois

Pets on a leash are welcome to explore the grounds at Gateway Arch National Park . They can also accompany you as you explore the Riverfront Trail or enjoy a scenic riverboat cruise. This was a great place to walk Brickle and Digby, but there was a lot of traffic, both vehicular and horses. Make sure your dog is not stressed by these factors.

Pets are not allowed inside the Arch, Old Courthouse, Museum of Western Expansion, or any other buildings.

Plan your RV camping trip to visit Gateway Arch.

Glacier Bay National Park | Alaska

In Glacier Bay National Park , pets are allowed on a vessel on the water, on the Bartlett Cove Public Use Dock, on the beach between the Bartlett Cove Public Use Dock and the National Park Service Administrative Dock, and within 100 feet of Bartlett Cove Developed Area park roads or parking areas, unless otherwise posted.

• Anywhere in the backcountry, with the exception of pets that remain on board private vessels on the water

Use our guide to Glacier Bay RV camping to plan your trip.

Glacier National Park | Montana

Pets are allowed in developed areas in Glacier National Park , but they must remain on a leash no longer than 6 feet (or be otherwise restrained, even in permitted areas). This includes in cars while driving park roads, in frontcountry campgrounds, along roads when you are stopped, in parking and picnic areas, and in boats on lakes where motorized watercraft are permitted.

Pets are not permitted on trails, along lakeshores outside of developed locations, in the backcountry, or in any building.

When the bike path between Apgar and West Glacier is free of snow dogs are allowed on leash. When roads are closed to vehicle traffic, they are considered a backcountry trail, and dogs are not allowed. Depending on the time of year, many roads in the park may be closed. But we still had a great time with our senior dogs as they enjoyed the drives and scenery from the overlooks. This was the scenery and smells that, to them, were easily enjoyed from the car.

Discover our complete guide to Glacier National Park RV Camping.

Grand Canyon National Park | Arizona

We chose to camp at Grand Canyon National Park so we all could experience more. Although the campground is small and without many amenities, you have the luxury of taking short hikes that your pet may not be allowed on while they take a nap. Pets are not allowed below the canyon rim. Inner canyon trails are narrow and well-traveled.

Our favorite place to walk our dogs and get some great pictures…carefully…was the paved South Rim trail. Keep in mind that not all travelers like dogs. We found this out quickly here. We also chose to take a hike down into the canyon. One of us stayed with the dogs while the other hiked. Making adjustments is part of traveling with pets, but it can be done!

On the South Rim

Leashed pets are allowed on trails above the rim, in the Mather, Desert View, and Trailer Village campgrounds, and throughout developed areas. Yavapai Lodge is the only in-park lodge that has pet-friendly rooms.

Pets are not permitted below the rim (on inner canyon trails), on park shuttle buses, in-park lodging, with the exception of those staying with their owners in a pet-friendly room or on the North Rim

Leashed pets are only allowed on the bridle trail (greenway) connecting the North Kaibab Trail and the portion of the Arizona Trail north to the park entrance station. At Tuweep, leashed pets are only allowed on established roads and in the campground.

Learn more about Grand Canyon National Park RV Camping.

Grand Teton National Park | Wyoming

Pets are allowed inside Grand Teton National Park , but they must be restrained at all times and are not permitted on hiking trails, inside visitor centers, or other facilities. Pets are prohibited on trails, pathways, and swimming in any park waters. A good rule of thumb is that a pet may go anywhere a car may go: roads and road shoulders, campgrounds and picnic areas, parking lots, etc.

• On any park trails or in the park backcountry
• Public buildings and swimming beaches, except for guide dogs
• Riding in boats on park waters, except for Jackson Lake
• On multi-use pathways

From November 1 through April 30, the park closes portions of Teton Park Road, Antelope Flats, and Moose-Wilson Road to motorized traffic, allowing for public recreation. Leashed dogs are permitted on the Teton Park, Antelope Flats, and Moose-Wilson roads, as well as other park roadways. Dogs are restricted to roads and turnouts – they are not permitted to travel more than 30 feet from roadbeds, or into the park’s backcountry. Owners are required to keep pets on a leash (six-foot maximum length). Mutt Mitt stations are in place at the Taggart Lake Trailhead parking area.

Plan your RV camping trip to Grand Teton National Park.

Great Basin National Park | Nevada

When we are asked what our favorite campsite was in all of our travels, Great Basin National Park comes first to mind. We had no hookups, but camping here allowed the dogs to experience the rushing stream behind us and gaze at the snow-capped mountain peaks in the distance. And gazing up at the stars at night and seeing the bristlecone pines are experiences we will never forget. Since there are not many places where pets are allowed, a drive was in order! We turned on classical music and let the cool air tickle their senses.

We stopped right outside the park near the visitor center at a roadside espresso stand and shared a cinnamon roll with Brickle and Digby. Leashed pets can only be exercised in the campgrounds, in front of the visitor centers, and along roads.

Pets are not permitted in these locations:

• Lehman Caves
• At evening programs
• On trails, except for leashed pets on the Lexington Arch Trail or the trail between Baker and the Great Basin Visitor Center
• In the park’s backcountry

Plan your Great Basin National Park RV Camping trip.

Great Sand Dunes National Park | Colorado

Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is one of only a few national parks that permits pets in most areas. Pets are permitted in the Preserve (including Mosca Pass Trail) and main use areas of the Park (including Piñon Flats Campground, Dunes Overlook Trail, and along the Medano Pass Primitive Road).

• Inside the visitor center and bathrooms
• In the backcountry of the dune field
• Beyond the first high ridge of dunes
• Off of the Dunes Overlook Trail
• North of Castle Creek Picnic Area, except along Medano Pass Primitive Road
• North of Point of No Return, including Sand Ramp Trail
• In any backpacking campsites located inside the national park

Discover our guide to RV camping at Great Sand Dunes.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park | North Carolina and Tennessee

In Great Smoky Mountains National Park , dogs are allowed in campgrounds, picnic areas, and along roads, but must be kept on a leash at all times. Dogs are only allowed on two short walking paths—the Gatlinburg Trail and the Oconaluftee River Trail. The Gatlinburg Trail was a perfect hike for our dogs, and it leads right into the city of Gatlinburg. Streams, creeks, little bridges, and friendly folks will all be found along the way. We did see many bears during our time here, so if your dog is reactive, just keep that in mind.

Learn more about RV camping in the Smoky Mountains.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park | Texas

In Guadalupe Mountains National Park , leashed pets are only permitted in areas accessed by vehicles. This includes established roadsides, parking areas, developed picnic areas, and campgrounds. They may walk on the short Pine Springs Campground connector trail or along the Pinery Trail from the visitor center to the Butterfield Stage Station as long as they are on a leash no longer than six feet and attended at all times. Federal regulations require all pet excrement to be picked up and disposed of in a marked trash receptacle.

Pets are prohibited in these areas:

• All park trails except the Pinery Trail and the Pine Springs Campground connector trail
• The backcountry
• Park buildings
• Public programs

Read our full guide to RV camping in Guadalupe Mountains National Park.

Haleakalā National Park | Hawaii

In Haleakalā National Park , dogs are permitted in parking lots and on roadways and paved pathways only.

Dogs are not permitted on trails or at Hosmer Grove Campground. You may not leave animals unattended at any time. Please do not bring dogs into park buildings.

Learn more about camping in Haleakalā National Park.

Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park | Hawaii

Pets are allowed at all parking areas and surrounding curbs (excluding Hilina Pali Road and Kulanaokuaiki Campground) and on Crater Rim Drive in areas open to vehicles inside Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park . Pets are allowed on Chain of Craters Road down to Puʻu Loa Petroglyphs, at Nāmakanipaio Campground, on Mauna Loa Road, and on Highway 11. You may bring your pet to Kīlauea Military Camp, on paved roads and parking areas; and at the picnic area, up to the park ball field gate, not including the ball field.

Pets are prohibited in all of the undeveloped areas of the park. This includes all designated wilderness and all front-country and backcountry trails.

At the Kahuku Unit

Pets are allowed in developed areas that include the open fields adjacent to the Visitor Contact Station and other park buildings and the area extending to the boundary of the forested areas up to, but not including, Puʻu o Lokuana . Pets are allowed on Old Mamalahoa Highway spur road and on Kahuku Road from Highway 11 to the cross fence gate, including the airstrip by the intersection of Puʻu o Lokuana.

Discover more about camping in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park.

Hot Springs National Park | Arkansas

Hot Springs National Park was so unexpected! And the dogs did not expect the water to be hot in the streams rushing by! With inspiring scenery and endless opportunities to explore, this is a perfect place for travelers with pets. Dogs are welcome on all 26 miles of the Hot Springs National Park trail! Plus, pet waste stations are located on both ends of Bathhouse Row and in the campground. Avoid Federal Buildings and other park buildings when you have your dogs and pets as they aren’t permitted.

Plan your Hot Springs National Park RV Camping trip.

Indiana Dunes National Park | Indiana

In Indiana Dunes National Park , pets are allowed on the Pinhook Upland Trail. So long as they’re on a leash, pets are allowed on beaches year-round with one exception: in the lifeguarded swimming area at West Beach from the Friday of Memorial Day weekend through the Monday of Labor Day Weekend.

• On the Pinhook Bog Trail
• On the equestrian portion of the Glenwood Dunes Trail system.

Read our full guide to Indiana Dunes National Park RV Camping.

Isle Royale National Park | Michigan

Campers insistent on including their pets in their adventures may want to reconsider Isle Royale National Park .

• Dogs, cats, and other pets are not allowed on the island
• Pets on boats within the park boundaries, which extend 4 ½ miles into Lake Superior from the outermost land areas of the park, are not allowed.
• Visitors bringing pets to Isle Royale will be required to leave immediately.

Learn more about visiting Isle Royale National Park.

Joshua Tree National Park | California

We loved Joshua Tree National Park ! Pets are allowed within 100 feet (30.5 m) of roads, picnic areas, and campgrounds. Pets are also permitted on the paved Oasis of Mara and Keys View trails. Be aware of hot sidewalks and pavement that will burn your pet’s feet and walk only during the cooler parts of the day. Unpaved roads offer spectacular scenery and a chance to immerse yourself in the desert landscape with your pet while following park regulations and protecting the park. Anywhere you can drive your vehicle, you can go with your leashed pet. Some unpaved roads require 4-wheel drive and/or high clearance.

Check out our guide to exploring Joshua Tree National Park.

Katmai National Park | Alaska

Due to the fact that most of the park is wilderness and the high concentration of bears, especially around Brooks Camp (in close proximity to visitors) Katmai National Park does not allow pets inside the park.

Discover Katmai National Park with our guide to RV camping .

Kenai Fjords National Park | Alaska

Pets are allowed on the road to Exit Glacier (the Herman Leirer Road) and in the parking lot of the Exit Glacier Nature Center within Kenai Fjords National Park.

• On trails (Exit Glacier area, the Harding Icefield Trail, or in the coastal backcountry)
• Along the coast from the mean high tide line to 1/4 mile inland from 5/30 – 11/1
• All buildings

Learn more about camping in Kenai Fjords.

Kings Canyon National Park | California

Pets are not allowed on all trails inside Kings Canyon National Park , including paved trails (General Sherman Tree Trail, Big Trees Trail, Grant Tree Trail) and others. Pet backpacks and strollers are permitted, but still not on any trails. They are only permitted in areas where pets are allowed on leashes, such as parking lots, paved roads, campgrounds, and picnic areas.

Whether on foot or in a carrier, pets are limited to these four areas. There are just a few locations where pets are permitted in parks outside of your vehicle. They are permitted outside of vehicles in the following locations: parking lots, paved roads, campgrounds, and picnic areas. Owners are responsible for picking up waste. All pets must be on a leash no longer than six feet in length.

Explore our RV camping guide to Kings Canyon National Park.

Kobuk Valley National Park | Alaska

Pets are allowed on leash in Kobuk Valley National Park .

Check out our complete RV camping guide to Kobuk Valley National Park

Lake Clark National Park | Alaska

Leashed pets are permitted in Lake Clark National Park . This is awesome!

Discover Lake Clark National Park with our RV camping guide .

Lassen Volcanic National Park | California

Pets may only go anywhere cars may go which includes roads and road shoulders (not snow-covered), campgrounds, picnic areas, and parking lots inside Lassen Volcanic National Park . Pets are not permitted on any hiking trail, in the park backcountry (including snow-covered roads or trails), in any body of water, or inside visitor centers or other park facilities.

Explore Lassen Volcanic National Park with our comprehensive guide .

Mammoth Cave National Park | Kentucky

Brickle and Digby are not fans of caves, and that’s a good thing because they aren’t allowed inside them at this national park. We camped outside Mammoth Cave National Park and did a brief tour of the caves by ourselves. Inside the park, leashed dogs are allowed on surface trails, and the Woodland Cottages allow dogs. Just keep in mind that these cabins aren’t air-conditioned, so you’ll want to monitor temperatures during the hot months.

Learn more about how to camp at Mammoth Cave National Park in an RV .

Mesa Verde National Park | Colorado

Pets are not allowed on trails, in archeological sites, or in buildings within Mesa Verde National Park . You may walk pets along paved roads, in parking lots, and at the campground. Pets must be leashed at all times when outside a vehicle. Leashed pets are allowed on some of the trails on Wetherill Mesa when it is open in the spring, summer, and fall. Pet-friendly trails are marked and include the 5-mile Long House Loop. Please check signs at trailheads before taking your pet on any trail.

Read our guide to RV camping Mesa Verde National Park.

Mount Rainier National Park | Washington

Pets are permitted at Mount Rainier in parking lots, in campgrounds, on paved roads open to public vehicles, and no more than 6 feet from paved roads. At Mount Rainier, pets are not allowed on trails, in the wilderness and/or off-trail areas, inside buildings, in amphitheaters, or on roads closed for winter. The Pacific Crest Trail is the one exception to this rule. Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are permitted on the Pacific Crest Trail. We had a great time at this National Park, even from the parking lots with plenty of views and picture-taking opportunities.

Explore Mount Rainier with our guide to RV camping.

National Park of American Samoa | American Samoa

Pets are not allowed in public buildings, public transportation vehicles, swimming beaches, or structures within the National Park of American Samoa . They are also not allowed on hiking trails or within park buildings.

Explore our RV camping guide to the National Park of American Samoa.

New River Gorge National Park and Preserve | West Virginia

Great news! Pets are allowed on all trails at New River Gorge National Park and Preserve .

Discover more about New River Gorge National Park and Preserve.

North Cascades National Park | Washington

Dogs and other pets are not allowed within North Cascades National Park except on a leash on the Pacific Crest Trail and within 50 feet of roads. Pets are allowed on a leash within the Ross Lake and Lake Chelan National Recreation Areas. Pets are also allowed on most surrounding national forest lands.

Further explore North Cascades National Park.

Olympic National Park | Washington

Pets are allowed on the Peabody Creek Trail ( Olympic National Park Visitor Center in Port Angeles), the Rialto Beach parking lot to Ellen Creek (1/2 mile), the beaches between the Hoh and Quinault Reservations (Kalaloch area), Madison Falls Trail (Elwha), Spruce Railroad Trail (North shore of Lake Crescent), and the July Creek Loop Trail (North shore of Lake Quinault) Pets are not permitted on any trails not listed above, in public buildings, on interpretive walks, or in the wilderness. Additionally, pets are welcome in drive-in campgrounds and picnic areas as well as paved or dirt roads.

Read more about RV camping in Olympic National Park.

Petrified Forest National Park | Arizona

The Petrified Forest National Park was unlike any destination we have visited. The rangers were dog lovers and welcomed us with open paws. Pets are allowed on any paved road or trail and in all official Wilderness areas in the park. You can’t go wrong at this park! Just bring plenty of water because there is not much shade.

Read more about Petrified Forest National Park.

Pinnacles National Park | California

Pets are allowed in the picnic areas, campgrounds, parking lots, and on paved roads within Pinnacles National Park . Pets are prohibited on all park trails, on the shuttle, or in buildings such as visitor centers or the Bear Gulch Nature Center.

Check out our RV camping guide to Pinnacles National Park.

Redwood National Park | California

Pets are not allowed on any park trails or at ranger-led programs within Redwood National Park . Pets are allowed in developed campgrounds, on beaches, picnic areas, and on roads.

Learn more about RV camping in Redwood National Park.

Rocky Mountain National Park | Colorado

Leashed pets may accompany you along established roads, in parking areas, in established campgrounds, and in picnic areas within Rocky Mountain National Park . Pets are prohibited on all Rocky Mountain National Park trails, tundra, and meadows, and they are not permitted in visitor centers. Notably, there are doggy daycares, vets, and boarding centers nearby.

Learn more about Rocky Mountain National Park.

Saguaro National Park | Arizona

Watch your paws in Saguaro National Park ! Pets are allowed only on roadways, picnic areas (except the Mam-A-Gah picnic area in the Tucson Mountain District-west), and paved trails (Desert Ecology Trail & Desert Discovery Trail). We bought a little cactus in the visitor center that we plan to plant one day!

Learn more about Saguaro National Park RV Camping.

Sequoia National Park | California

In Sequoia National Park , pets are only permitted outside of vehicles in parking lots, paved roads, campgrounds, and picnic areas.

Check out our guide to RV camping Sequoia National Park.

Shenandoah National Park | Virginia

We love Shenandoah National Park . There are so many trails to walk the dogs on, and we camped at the nearby state park, which is dog-friendly. Leashed pets are allowed on most trails, but prohibited on the following trails:

• Fox Hollow Trail (mile 4.6)
• Stony Man Trail (mile 41.7)
• Limberlost Trail (mile 43)
• Post Office Junction to Old Rag Shelter
• Old Rag Ridge Trail
• Old Rag Saddle Trail
• Old Rag Access Trail
• Ridge Access Trail (Old Rag area)
• Dark Hollow Falls Trail (mile 50.7)
• Story of the Forest Trail (mile 51)
• Bearfence Mountain Trail (mile 56.4)
• Frazier Discovery Trail (mile 79.5)

Learn more about Shenandoah National Park RV camping.

Theodore Roosevelt National Park | North Dakota

Can you say prairie dogs? So cute and so plentiful in Theodore Roosevelt National Park . Leashed pets may be walked along roads and road shoulders, sidewalks, parking areas, and in campgrounds and picnic areas. But seeing Brickle and Digby look at the prairie dogs from the car was so memorable. Watching our dogs see new sights and animals never gets old. The sidewalk at the Painted Canyon Visitor Center (I-94, exit 32) is a good place to walk dogs and has fantastic views of the badlands all along the way. Pets are not allowed on trails.

Learn more about RV camping in Theodore Roosevelt National Park.

Virgin Islands National Park | Virgin Islands

Pets are allowed on all of the trails at the Virgin Islands National Park . As the Virgin Islands are located near the Equator, you’ll want to bring plenty of water for both you and your pet if you plan on visiting.

Discover all you need to know about visiting Virgin Islands National Park.

Voyageurs National Park | Minnesota

Pets are allowed at Frontcountry campsites only within Voyageurs National Park . You can hike with pets on the 1.7-mile Recreation Trail, which follows County Road 96 from Hwy 11 to the Rainy Lake Visitor Center.

Pets are allowed in the following locations:

• Immediate visitor center areas and parking lots
• At backcountry campsites located within the Kabetogama Peninsula

Check out our guide to Voyageurs National Park.

White Sands National Park | New Mexico

White Sands National Park is probably one of the most memorable national parks we have visited. It felt like we were on another planet and the smells and sights for the dogs to experience were totally new. Go anywhere outside with your pet in the park as long as they are non-disruptive, on a leash no longer than six feet, and are under physical control at all times. Pets are not allowed in any park buildings.

Check out the complete guide to RV Camping in White Sands National Park.

Wind Cave National Park | South Dakota

Pets are welcome at Wind Cave National Park except for the back-country areas of the park. Pets are allowed in the grassy areas near the visitor center, the Elk Mountain Campground, and both the Prairie Vista Trail and Elk Mountain Campground Trail.

Explore our guide to RV camping in Wind Cave National Park.

Wrangell-St. Elias National Park | Alaska

Within Wrangell-St. Elias National Park , dogs are allowed in the backcountry area of the park and they must be properly controlled at all times. Please note that dogs must be on a leash while in the Kennecott Historic Landmark area and on the immediate grounds around the contact stations, including the Headquarters Visitor Center at Copper Center and the Boreal Forest Trail, the Chitina Ranger Station and the Slana Ranger Station.

It is very important to remember that trapping is popular and legal in Alaska from Fall through Spring (seasons vary by location and species). Unleashed pets can get caught in traps or snares. Maintaining physical control of your pet is advised since it is your responsibility to prevent harm to your pet. That means a leash! Don’t take unnecessary chances.

Check out our guide to Wrangell-St. Elias National Park.

Yellowstone National Park | Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming

Yellowstone National Park is at the top of many lists when it comes to National Parks! If you love animals as much as we do, you are probably excited to visit. But keep in mind that pets may only accompany people in developed areas and must remain within 100 feet of roads, parking areas, and campgrounds.

Pets must be physically controlled at all times and they must be in a car, in a crate, or on a leash no more than six feet long. Pets are not allowed on boardwalks, hiking trails, in the backcountry, or in thermal areas. We were able to camp outside of Yellowstone and drive into the park numerous times to see specific sites that Brickle and Digby were not allowed at.

See what we recommend when visiting Yellowstone National Park in an RV.

Yosemite National Park | California

Yosemite National Park was the first national park that we took our dogs to, and it truly started our obsession with giving them the best life possible. When we saw them gazing up at the snow-peaked mountains and breathing in the fresh air, we were hooked. But pets are not allowed in many places at the park. They are allowed in developed areas, on fully paved roads, sidewalks, and bicycle paths. Pets are not allowed on trails, including the trail to Vernal Fall (however, pets are allowed on the Wawona Meadow Loop), on unplowed roads covered in snow, in undeveloped and wilderness areas, in public buildings, on shuttle buses, in lodging areas and in all walk-in and group campgrounds/campsites, including Camp 4.

Additionally, pets must be restrained on a leash that’s no more than six feet long or otherwise restrained.

Check out our guide to RV camping in Yosemite National Park.

Zion National Park | Utah

Leashed pets may be walked on the Pa’rus Trail. All other trails and wilderness areas are closed to pets. You’ll have to find alternative options when traveling with pets on shuttle buses or in public buildings within Zion National Park . Plus, all pets must be on a leash no longer than six feet. The park has specific warnings about keeping pets out of water due to toxic algae risks, so be advised!

Here’s our guide for RV camping in Zion National Park!

Are National Parks Worth Traveling To With Pets?

You may wonder if traveling with your pet is worth it, given all the rules and regulations of national parks. We truly believe that Brickle and Digby inspire us to travel more, see more, and live more. Without them, travel would be easier sometimes. But seeing the parks through their eyes is a perspective that we would not trade for ease.

Often, public and forested lands outside of National Parks allow pets with fewer restrictions. We have found some of our favorite boondocking campsites this way!

When we have to research the National Parks ahead of time, we find that we learn more about it. Despite all the information we find out, we always ask when entering the park about the rules and regulations for pets. Not only is this respectful to do, but it reminds us that the world is bigger than we are. Their public obligation to keep the National Parks as they are is bigger than all of us. We can all do our part, and our pets can too!

Your Dog Can Become A BARK Ranger!

The Bark Ranger program was introduced by the National Park Service to encourage responsible national park travel with dogs!

BARK stands for:

• B ag your poop
• A lways wear a leash (6-foot max)
• R espect wildlife (give them their space)
• K now where you can go (which trails/areas are pet-friendly)

Dogs participating in the program are sworn in as Bark Rangers, and their owners can purchase a special tag for their pup’s collar. Each participating park has its own tag, so your dog can collect them all!

• Comment (4)

Thank you for the article packed with useful information!

We have a small dog who traveled a lot with us in Europe. In our experience, in open-air places where dogs are not allowed, sometimes it’s fine to carry our dog in a backpack. We’re moving to the US soon. How is it in these national parks do you know/think? Is it perhaps ok to carry our dog while we get on the dog-forbidden trails?

Thanks a lot!

From my experience, the parks that say ‘dogs prohibited on all trails’ don’t make exceptions whether your dog is leashed or carried. That said, I’ve found that many parks have dirt roads or other areas where you can get out and enjoy the sights while bringing your pup along. The visitor’s centers at each individual park will probably be your best resource for their specific rules on whether you can get away with carrying your pup on otherwise dog-forbidden trails though.

Sorry I couldn’t be more helpful!

Can you leave your pets in your rv with the temperatures being perfect? How else can you hike?

This is one of the downsides of visiting parks that are not pet-friendly. In ideal temperatures, it’s safe to leave pets inside a heated or air-conditioned RV. But some parks now offer pet day care services so you have someone to watch you pet while you hit the trails!

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