Despite competition from alternative accommodation options, hotels in the Canary Islands are set to end 2024 with record-breaking guest numbers, surpassing their 2023 performance. This success comes even as hotel prices have risen by 7%, making the region one of the most expensive destinations for hotel stays in Spain.
According to data from the National Institute of Statistics' Hotel Occupancy Survey, over 10.1 million tourists stayed in hotels across the Canary Islands from January to November 2024.
If the current trend continues, the total for the year is expected to reach 11 million guests, eclipsing the 10.6 million recorded in 2023.
Sustained Growth Throughout the Year
Each month of 2024 saw hotels hosting over 860,000 guests, with six months exceeding 900,000 visitors and August surpassing the one-million mark. Notably, these figures exclude tourists who opted for apartments, holiday lets, campsites, hostels, or rural homes. Once data from these alternative accommodations is included, total lodging figures are expected to significantly exceed 15 million.
November saw the highest number of hotel establishments in operation for the year, with 600 hotels employing 59,469 workers, primarily concentrated in the southern regions of Tenerife and Gran Canaria.
Rising Costs for Holidaymakers
The popularity of Canary Islands hotels has come at a price. In November 2024, the region posted the highest hotel price index in Spain, averaging €178.34 per night compared to the national average of €142.73. Throughout the year, the average daily rate for hotel stays exceeded €110, with notable variations depending on the season.
During November's high season, the average nightly cost for a hotel room reached €145, while in June, the rate was a more modest €112. Compared to November 2023, prices increased by 10%, underlining a steady upward trend. Revenue per available room (RevPAR) also reached a remarkable €130, nearly double pre-pandemic figures.
The Sector’s Continued Dominance
Despite the growing appeal of alternative accommodation, hotels remain the preferred choice for many tourists visiting the Canary Islands. Their dominance is bolstered by consistent growth in guest numbers, rising revenue, and their ability to weather the impact of higher prices.
As the hotel sector closes the year on a high note, it reinforces the Canary Islands reputation as a leading destination, combining strong demand with premium pricing. The record-breaking figures highlight both the enduring appeal of traditional hotels and the continued strength of the islands as a global tourist hotspot.
