Mallorca activists call for crackdown on tourist buggy excursions

Environmental campaigners in Mallorca are demanding stricter controls on tourist buggy excursions around Cala Millor and Sa Coma, claiming the growing activity is damaging rural roads, countryside trails and environmentally sensitive areas along the island’s east coast.

The criticism comes from the activist group Illes en Resistència, which has publicly denounced the rapid increase in organised buggy tours operating in popular tourist zones. The excursions, marketed as adventure experiences for visitors, frequently take tourists through dirt roads, rural tracks and scenic coastal routes that campaigners say are not designed to handle heavy recreational traffic.

Activists warn of environmental damage

According to the group, the repeated use of off-road vehicles is accelerating soil erosion and deteriorating traditional rural paths used by local residents, farmers and cyclists. Activists also argue the tours create excessive noise pollution in otherwise quiet countryside areas. In a strongly worded social media post, Illes en Resistència stated: “They’re destroying the lanes, we have to stop this, NOW!”

The organisation believes current regulations are insufficient and is calling on local authorities to impose tighter restrictions or outright bans on buggy excursions in sensitive zones.

Many of the tours are promoted heavily online and attract tourists looking for adrenaline-based activities during their holidays in Mallorca. Prices for excursions can reach around €79 per person depending on the duration and route.

Growing debate across Mallorca

The controversy surrounding quads and buggy tours has been growing across the island in recent years as Mallorca faces increasing tensions between tourism activity and environmental protection.

Several municipalities, including Alcudia, Manacor and Capdepera, have already introduced or discussed measures aimed at limiting off-road vehicle access in protected or rural areas. Some local councils have also imposed fines on drivers caught entering restricted land or natural spaces.

The latest criticism comes only days after environmental groups also raised concerns over social media influencers promoting hidden coves and remote natural spots to tourists, which campaigners say is contributing to overcrowding and environmental degradation.

As summer approaches and visitor numbers continue rising, pressure is expected to grow on local authorities to decide how far tourism activities should be allowed to expand into Mallorca’s natural landscapes.