Gran Canaria: Sunset & Stargazing Tour: PickUp or Self Drive

Experience the Magic of Gran Canaria’s Night Sky

The Gran Canaria Sunset & Stargazing Tour offers an unforgettable way to enjoy the island’s natural beauty and celestial wonders. With options for pick-up in the South or self-driving, this 4 to 6-hour excursion combines scenic mountain drives, breathtaking sunsets, and a guided stargazing session using powerful telescopes. Priced and scheduled flexibly, it suits visitors eager for a night under some of the clearest skies in the world.

This tour is ideal for those who love nature, astronomy, and scenic views. You’ll appreciate the detailed itinerary, expert guides, and the chance to capture a professional astrophotograph. While it involves some walking and driving at high altitude, it offers a comfortable, engaging experience even if you are new to stargazing.

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Key Points

• Flexible options: Pick-up service from the South or self-drive with a lead vehicle
• Stunning sunset views: Enjoy a glass of cava or juice at 1550m above sea level
• Expert-guided stargazing: See planets, galaxies, and star clusters through telescopes
• High-quality photos: Receive a professional night-sky photo as a keepsake
• Dark sky location: Remote site at Llanos de la Pez ensures minimal light pollution
• Elevation considerations: Warm clothing and flat shoes are recommended

Scenic Drive Through Gran Canaria’s Mountain Landscapes

The tour begins with a scenic drive passing through majestic canyons, lush palm oases, and picturesque villages like Arteara and Fataga. Traveling in a comfortable bus or with your own vehicle (if you choose self-drive), this part of the journey showcases Gran Canaria’s diverse terrains.

The first notable stop is at Mirador Astronómico de la Degollada de las Yeguas, which offers spectacular views of what is known as the Grand Canyon of Gran Canaria. Here, visitors can take photos and enjoy the scenery before heading to San Bartolomé de Tirajana, where a quick break allows for snacks or bathroom needs. This part of the drive helps set the stage for the evening’s celestial show.

Sunset Viewing at Mirador de la Becerra

The highlight of the drive is the sunset at Mirador de la Degollada de la Becerra, perched at 1550 meters above sea level. This viewpoint offers spectacular vistas above the clouds, with Pico de las Nieves and Teide visible in the distance.

As the sun dips below the horizon, a glass of cava or juice enhances the experience. The cool, crisp air and panoramic views create a perfect setting for taking memorable photos of the magical sunset cloudscape. This stop is accessible for self-drivers, who meet the group here for the evening.

Remote Stargazing Site at Llanos de la Pez

After sunset, the tour ventures into Llanos de la Pez, a remote location at around 1800 meters elevation. This spot is chosen for its minimal light pollution and crystal-clear skies, making it one of the best places in the Canary Islands for star gazing.

Expert guides lead the group through a guided constellation tour, explaining planets, galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters. Using powerful telescopes, visitors get an up-close view of the universe. The guides also display live deep sky photographs on tablets, providing an immersive experience.

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Astrophotography and Professional Photos

A key feature of this tour is the professional night-sky photography. Using advanced astrophotography techniques, the guides capture a photo of you or your group under the stars. This special keepsake is then provided as a downloadable image, perfect for sharing or framing as a reminder of this celestial night.

It’s worth noting that since the tour takes place at an elevation of around 1800 meters, warm clothing is supplied, and guests are advised to dress warmly due to cooler evening temperatures. Closed-toe shoes are also recommended for comfort and safety.

Detailed Tour Itinerary and Stops

The tour starts with a pick-up in the South (if you select that option) or self-driving to the designated meeting point. The journey includes a 20-minute bus or coach ride to the first viewpoint, Mirador Astronómico de la Degollada de las Yeguas. Here, there’s a short 10-minute photo stop for scenic shots.

Next, a 30-minute drive takes visitors to San Bartolomé de Tirajana, where a 20-minute break allows for quick snacks and bathroom stops. The tour then continues with a 30-minute coach ride to Mirador de la Becerra, where the sunset view is enjoyed for about 40 minutes with refreshments.

Following sunset, the group moves to Llanos de La Pez for a guided 1.5-hour star gazing session. The entire experience concludes with drop-off at three locations: Puerto de Mogán, Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria, and Maspalomas.

Practical Logistics and Group Sizes

The tour is led by English-speaking guides and can accommodate both pick-up guests and those choosing self-drive. The small-group format enhances the personal experience. The tour duration is flexible, lasting 4 to 6 hours, making it suitable for most evening schedules.

Guests should plan to bring warm clothing, a camera for capturing memories, and closed-toe shoes for comfort at high altitude. The tour is not suitable for children under 5, wheelchair users, or people who have recently scuba-dived within 24 hours.

Suitability and Physical Considerations

This experience is designed for those comfortable with some walking and high-altitude conditions. Since the tour occurs at around 1800 meters, it can be quite cold in the evening, so warm clothing is provided. Guests should be prepared for potentially brisk temperatures and dark conditions at night.

The tour’s pace allows for enjoying the scenery, sunset, and star gazing without feeling hurried. The minimal light pollution and powerful telescopes make for a very engaging astronomy experience, even for those new to star gazing.

Comparing the Sunset & Stargazing Tour to Other Experiences

Unlike other entertainment shows or simple night excursions, this tour emphasizes astronomical observation in a natural setting. Its focus on expert-guided astronomy and dark sky locations makes it stand out as a prime option for celestial enthusiasts.

Similar experiences may be available, but this tour’s combination of scenic mountain drives, sunset viewing, and astrophotography offers a comprehensive evening in Gran Canaria. The flexibility of pick-up or self-drive also adds convenience to fit different travel plans.

Final Thoughts on the Gran Canaria Stargazing Experience

This Sunset & Stargazing Tour presents a compelling way to combine nature, scenic landscapes, and the night sky into one memorable experience. The spectacular sunset views, expert-guided astronomy, and professional photo make it especially suitable for those seeking a unique, relaxed evening activity.

While the high-altitude location and cooler temperatures require some preparation, the warm clothing and guiding expertise ensure a comfortable and enriching adventure. The small-group setting fosters a more personal atmosphere, perfect for making the most of the island’s dark skies.

This tour is especially recommended for astronomy lovers and nature enthusiasts who want to enjoy Gran Canaria’s best night sky in comfort and style. Its well-planned stops, scenic drives, and professional astrophotography make it a value-packed addition to any island itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour offers pick-up from the South of the island or the option for self-driving with the group meeting at the designated site.

What is the duration of the tour?
The experience lasts between 4 and 6 hours, depending on the schedule and options chosen.

What should I bring?
Guests should bring warm clothing, a camera, and closed-toe shoes. The tour provides winter coats due to the high elevation.

Can children participate?
The tour is not suitable for children under 5 years or wheelchair users.

Is the tour suitable for those who have recently scuba-dived?
No, guests should not book within 24 hours of scuba diving.

Where does the tour take place?
The main stargazing site is at Llanos de la Pez, at around 1800 meters elevation, ensuring excellent dark sky conditions.

What kind of telescopes are used?
Powerful telescopes are employed to show planets, galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters.

Will I receive a photo of myself under the stars?
Yes, a professional astrophotographer captures a downloadable photo of you or your group.

What are the main stops during the tour?
Stops include Mirador Astronómico de la Degollada de las Yeguas, Mirador de la Becerra, and the dark sky site at Llanos de la Pez.

Is there a language requirement?
The tour is conducted in English, suitable for English-speaking visitors.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby