Comino Island Overwhelmed by Mass Tourism and Rat Infestation

valletta - Comino Island faces challenges with mass tourism, rat infestation, and environmental concerns due to influencer promotions.

Comino Island Struggles with Mass Tourism and Rat Infestation

An idyllic island, Comino, known for its blue sea and white beaches, is now facing issues with mass tourism fueled by social media influencers. The surge in visitors has led to a rat infestation on the island.

Island's Background and Tourism Boom

Comino, named after the cumin herb growing on the island, was previously popular as a movie filming location. However, the rise of social media platforms like Tiktok and Instagram showcasing its beauty has attracted a large number of tourists.

Environmental Impact and Rat Infestation

The overcrowding of tourists on the beaches, numerous beach bars, and food stalls have resulted in food leftovers, leading to a rat infestation. The rats not only consume the excess food but also harm the local wildlife.

Government Measures and Environmental Activists

Government officials, including Maltese Vice Premier Ian Borg, are planning to reduce the number of day-trippers, limit eateries and excursion boats, and improve public facilities like toilets. However, environmental activists believe more drastic actions are needed, such as the removal of beach bars and strict food transportation regulations.

Environmental groups like Moviment Graffitti have been vocal about the need for better protection of Comino, criticizing the government's lack of enforcement despite the island being part of the Natura 2000 network.