The total solar eclipse on August 12, visible from Mallorca, raises alarms over the anticipated collapse of roads and the rise of illegal transport. Municipalities in the Serra de Tramuntana and the southwest coast will be the most problematic areas.
On August 12, at just after eight in the evening, Mallorca will experience a unique astronomical phenomenon: a total solar eclipse that will darken the sky for just over a minute. However, as warned by taxi associations and local residents, the biggest blackout may be in mobility on the island. The combination of thousands of tourists and residents seeking the best viewpoint, along with an already strained road network, anticipates a historic collapse.
The battle for the best viewpoint
The National Geographic Institute places Mallorca as the last point in Spain where totality will be visible, with the Sun just 2 degrees above the horizon. This means that any obstacle — a building, a hill, a pine forest — can ruin the experience. Therefore, areas with a clear view to the west, such as the coast of the Serra de Tramuntana and some stretches of the southwest and southeast, have become the coveted target for thousands of people. Rural hotels like Cas Xorc are already selling packages with 'privileged viewpoints', and Facebook groups are debating whether in such a village the Sun will be hidden by a ridge of pines.
The Govern and the University of the Balearic Islands have organised 'visibility exercises' so that people can check in advance if their chosen viewpoint offers a clear view. A dress rehearsal for what will be the battle for a piece of horizon.
Illegal transport: the eclipse business
While some locals promise not to take their cars out of the garage to avoid the chaos, others are fine-tuning improvised businesses. Taxi associations from Calvià, Marratxí, Puigpunyent, Esporles, Valldemossa, and Deià report an increase in illegal transport: unlicensed cars and VTCs picking up customers on the street, even in minibuses, with ads via WhatsApp. According to Law 4/2014 on Land Transport in the Balearic Islands, fines range from 15,000 to 25,000 euros for serious or very serious infractions. The Formentera Council has already imposed fines of 6,001 euros for unlicensed taxi services.
But demand is such that prices range from 30 to 50 euros per hour, and many find the risk worthwhile. PIMEM-Taxi, the association of freelance taxi drivers, has been denouncing for years that as soon as the season starts, 'pirate taxis' return. The eclipse, with its peak influx, could be the trigger for an unsustainable situation.
Tips to avoid getting stuck
For residents, the recommendation is to plan ahead. If you live in the Serra or on the west coast, it’s best not to take the car between 19:00 and 21:00. Local councils are considering temporary traffic cuts at the most popular viewpoints. Local companies are offering boat trips with guides and approved glasses, an option that avoids traffic jams and guarantees a clear view. However, at prices that are already skyrocketing.
On August 12, Mallorca will have two eclipses: the Sun's and its own mobility model. A word to the wise is sufficient.
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