Travelers from the UK visiting Majorca next week may encounter significant travel disruptions due to extensive road restrictions imposed by the Balearic island during the upcoming solar eclipse event.
Majorca is among the few locations in Europe set to experience a total solar eclipse on Wednesday, with the moon completely obscuring the sun’s light, in contrast to the approximately 90% coverage expected in most parts of the UK.
The Balearic government has outlined a series of measures to be implemented on Wednesday, impacting most types of vehicles. These restrictions are anticipated to be active from 3pm to 9pm, with the possibility of some lasting longer depending on the situation.
In case of traffic congestion and safety issues, road closures may commence earlier. Controls will initiate at 8am on Wednesday in Platja de Palma and on Tuesday in Santa Ponça.
All motor vehicles are subject to these measures, with no general exceptions for motorcycles or mopeds. The restrictions aim to manage traffic flow on critical roads and access points to prevent congestion, maintain clear emergency routes, and enable swift emergency response during the eclipse.
Additionally, suppliers of goods will be prohibited from entering restricted areas during the road closures. In Platja de Palma, companies carrying out essential work must register as employees of the relevant establishment to access the area.
The government advises planning travel in advance, minimizing unnecessary trips, and ensuring safe eclipse viewing for both residents and tourists. It also urges the public to refrain from parking on roadsides, obstructing emergency routes, or engaging in activities like lighting fires or barbecues that pose wildfire hazards.
During the eclipse on August 12, 2026, the moon will begin to obscure the sun at 7:38 p.m., culminating in a brief period of darkness between 8:30 p.m. and 8:34 p.m. The total eclipse will be most prolonged in Mallorca, lasting about a minute and a half, and shortest in Formentera, with less than 30 seconds of the complete eclipse.
