Where to Fill Water and Dispose of Waste in Tenerife (Camper Edition)

Vanlife in Tenerife offers you freedom, nature and unforgettable sunsets.
But it also comes with a responsibility: taking care of your water and waste properly.

If you’re planning to explore the island by campervan, you’ll need to know:

• Where to fill up fresh water
• Where (and how) to dispose of grey and black water
• Which tools and apps can help you stay clean and eco-friendly

This guide will help you keep your trip smooth, simple and sustainable — so the only thing you leave behind are tyre tracks.

Why It’s Important to Manage Water and Waste Properly

It might not be the most glamorous part of vanlife, but water management is essential for an enjoyable and responsible road trip.

Environmental respect

Tenerife is full of protected areas — national parks, marine reserves, natural pools and forests. Dumping waste or washing with chemicals in these places is not only disrespectful, it’s illegal.

Avoiding fines and complaints

• Dumping grey or black water in public spaces can lead to fines of €300 or more.
• Locals and councils are increasingly watchful of campers — showing good habits keeps vanlife welcome on the island.

Set the right example

The more van travellers act responsibly, the better the experience for everyone.
Clean, respectful travel means more tolerance from locals and access to amazing wild spots.

Being a good vanlifer is part of the adventure — and it’s easier than you think.

Where to Fill Fresh Water in Tenerife

Getting clean water on the road is simple if you know where to look. Here are the best options:

1. Recreational areas (Áreas Recreativas)

Many picnic zones in forests or parks have free water taps available — especially:

• Las Lajas (Teide area)
• La Caldera (La Orotava)
• Aguamansa (Anaga area)

These areas are usually well-maintained and perfect for a stop to refill your bottles and tank.

2. Petrol stations (with permission)

Some petrol stations, particularly in rural zones, have outdoor taps.
Tip: Buy something inside or fill up the van and politely ask to use the water.

3. Campsites and camper areas

If you book a night or pay a small fee, most campsites allow you to:

• Refill your water
• Use toilets or showers
• Access electric plug points

4. Use the right apps

Apps like Park4Night, CamperContact and iOverlander allow users to share:

• Locations of water refill points
• Whether it’s drinkable
• Accessibility for larger vans
• Whether it’s free or paid

Where to Dispose of Grey and Black Water in Tenerife

Grey water (from your sink or shower) and black water (from your toilet) must be disposed of correctly — no exceptions.

What not to do:

• Never dump water in nature, on dirt roads or in the sea.
• Don’t pour grey water into standard street drains — they go to the ocean.
• Avoid creating puddles in public car parks or urban areas.

Tenerife is watching — improper disposal can lead to heavy fines and complaints from locals.

So where can you do it?

1. Campsites with grey/black water facilities

Several campsites on the island offer chemical disposal units and grey water drains. A few popular ones include:

• Camping Nauta (Costa del Silencio – South)
• Camping Punta del Hidalgo (North)
• Camping Montaña Roja (El Médano – South)

Most require payment or an overnight stay
Facilities usually include water refill, showers and electricity

 2. Selected petrol stations

Some larger service stations (especially those that welcome lorries) offer:

• Drive-over grey water drains
• Outdoor chemical toilets
• Taps with hose connections

Not always clearly marked — best to check via Park4Night or ask inside

Camper-specific areas

A few public or semi-public camper areas on the island allow you to dispose of waste for free or a small fee. These are sometimes managed by the town council (ayuntamiento) or private operators.

Always double-check current status via the CamperContact or iOverlander community.

Map of Campervan-Friendly Water and Waste Points in Tenerife

Here’s a sample list of popular zones, based on traveller feedback and app listings:

Extra Tips for Camper Hygiene and Sustainability

How much water should you carry?

• Solo traveller: 15–20 litres per day
• Couple: 25–30 litres per day
• Carry collapsible water containers for flexibility

Save water with smart habits

• Use spray bottles or rinse basins to reduce waste
• Wash dishes with minimal detergent
• Shower with sea water + final freshwater rinse (biodegradable soap only)

Stay clean, stay green

• Use eco-friendly cleaning products
• Keep a separate bin for recyclables
• Don’t leave grey water “just because it’s clean” — it still affects ecosystems

Final Thoughts: A Responsible Trip Is a Better Trip

Travelling by campervan gives you freedom — but freedom comes with responsibility.
Tenerife welcomes vanlifers who respect the environment and the local way of life.

With the right tools, apps and mindset, managing your water and waste is simple — and makes your trip smoother, safer and more sustainable.

Choose AJJ Vans for your adventure, and discover Tenerife with comfort, care and a clear conscience.