An influencer has been heavily criticised and caused a backlash after posting a video on TikTok showing himself and a group of friends illegally entering the Cueva de los 7 Lagos in Lanzarote.
This underground cave system is strictly off-limits to the public due to its dangerous conditions.
In the footage, the group are seen entering the caves via a steep, unstable ramp, before navigating narrow rock passages, some of which require crawling or squeezing through very tight spaces.
The video ends with the group jumping into one of the underground lakes to have a swim, ‘delighted’ with their achievement.
Access to the cave is heavily restricted to only allow authorised personnel because of the risk of accidents, rockfalls, and difficult terrain, and anyone caught entering without permission can face hefty fines.
Authorities and environmental groups are worried that videos like this could lead others to try the same illegal visits. With tourism already high in Lanzarote, officials warn that encouraging people to go to protected areas puts both visitors and the environment in danger.