Malta’s Ranger Unit, a local organisation dedicated to safeguarding Malta’s environment, is giving you the full guide to camping regulations in Malta.

And it starts off quite easily: always make sure that it’s legal to camp.

This means it cannot be done on private land without permit from the landowner or national parks with legislation to prohibit camping. If you’re unsure where you can or can’t camp in a particular area, you can get in touch with the Malta Ranger Unit for clarification of the environmental laws in place, by calling or messaging on 79378118.

Now, let’s go through some of the do’s and don’ts.

Avoid pitching the tent on protected plants, find a flat area and don’t remove any vegetation (SL. 549.44)

Do not attach ropes in protected trees such as pine (SL 549.123).

If you plan to stay for several days, it’s encouraged to move the tent just a few metres every third night to not impact the ground vegetation negatively.

Keep any litter contained at all times, not just cleaning before you leave (SL.549.40). Try to reduce the amount of waste you bring by repacking in reusable containers. Dispose of waste at home! If you could bring it there, you can bring it home.

If you plan to do a camp fire, have a look at the rangers’ guide for ‘BBQs and campfires’ here.

Next up, restrictions.

The local councils mentioned in the following list have laws in place to regulate camping. If not mentioned below, as far as MRU is aware, camping is allowed on public land, however, if there are any other councils who claim to have byelaws which are not listed here, they’re encouraged to get in touch with MRU.

For Natura 2000, if it’s a commercial event or more than 20 people, one would need to obtain a permit from ERA – Environment & Resources Authority.

Have a look at the Malta Ranger Unit’s map for Natura2000 sites here.

Marsaskala: Camping prohibited (permits not approved)

Marsaxlokk: Permit required

Mellieħa: Permit required and ONLY in the camp zones of Aħrax

You obtain your permit by applying here.

Campers are advised to apply a few days before to ensure the permit is done in time.

While the Malta Ranger Unit encourages people to enjoy Malta’s natural environment, it reminded the public to always take care of the area, and never leave a trace after completing a camping trip.

Image credit: Pierre Farrugia