Polestar SELF-DRIVE Sunset Stars Tour in Teide National Park

The Polestar SELF-DRIVE Sunset Stars Tour in Teide National Park offers a unique way to enjoy the dramatic natural beauty of Tenerife’s most famous landscape. Priced at $41.50 per person and lasting roughly 2 hours and 30 minutes, this tour stands out because it combines personal freedom with expert-led star identification, all without the hassle of large bus groups. You meet at the Mirador de los Poleos, an impressive west-facing lookout that offers sweeping views of La Gomera and La Palma islands, setting the perfect scene for a sunset toast.

After catching the sunset over the volcanic landscape, the tour guides you to a lookout point where telescopes are set up, and the sky reveals the Milky Way, planets, and constellations. A key benefit is the self-drive aspect, giving you the freedom to explore independently while still enjoying guided insights. An important consideration is that dinner is not included, so be sure to have a meal beforehand. This tour is especially suited for those who appreciate scenic views combined with star gazing, and who want a more flexible experience compared to traditional bus excursions.

Key Points

• Self-drive format allows for independence while benefiting from expert guidance
• Includes a glass of sparkling cava or non-alcoholic drink to toast the sunset
• Telescope access offers close-up views of stars, planets, and the Milky Way
• Stops at iconic viewpoints like Mirador de los Poleos and MouRead more, with rich volcanic histories
• Weather-dependent experience; clear skies are essential for optimal star viewing
• Recommended warm clothing due to high-altitude chill and potential cold temperatures at night

Meet at Mirador de los Poleos for a Sunset Viewing and Sparkling Cava

This tour begins at Mirador de los Poleos, a west-facing vantage point overlooking the islands of La Gomera and La Palma. It’s situated on the lava field of Boca Cranjero, known for being the site of the first recorded volcanic eruption in the area. Here, travelers watch the sunset, often witnessing the mount Teide’s dramatic red hues as the sun dips below the horizon.

The guide provides expert tips on photography, making this an ideal spot for capturing memorable sunset images. As the light fades, a glass of Spanish sparkling wine (cava) is served, creating a relaxed atmosphere and a toast to the stunning views. This stop offers one of the most picturesque moments of the tour and is praised for its photographic potential.

Exploring Mount Chinyero and the Lava Fields

Following sunset, the tour continues up into Teide National Park, passing by Mount Chinyero, known as the site of the park’s last eruption in 1909. The journey takes you through the volcanic landscape, offering insight into Tenerife’s fiery geological past. The guided commentary explains the history and significance of the area, adding educational value to the experience.

The drive to the lookout point at MouRead more provides panoramic vistas of the park’s rugged terrain. This section appeals to those interested in geology and volcanic history, with the landscape offering excellent photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate the raw power of nature.

Stargazing with Telescopes in Teide National Park

The climax of the tour is at a dedicated stargazing point, where telescopes are set up for viewing the night sky. Guided by knowledgeable staff, you can observe planets, constellations, and the Milky Way in extraordinary detail. Reviews highlight the clarity of the skies—a perfect backdrop for astronomy enthusiasts and casual stargazers alike.

The telescopes are described as great quality, and the guides are praised for their instructive explanations and friendly attitude. The Milky Way is often visible so clearly that some reviews mention it as a highlight of the experience. The setting allows for uninterrupted stargazing, away from light pollution, thanks to the dark skies of Tenerife.

The Guides: Experts with a Personal Touch

Guides such as Phil, Steve, and Pete earn praise for being knowledgeable, approachable, and humorous. They share detailed insights about stars, planets, and lunar features, making the sky accessible even to novices. Their friendly manner and willingness to chat enrich the experience, creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere for all participants.

Several reviews mention the guides’ instructive style, noting how they help identify constellations and explain celestial phenomena. Their enthusiasm and expertise make a big difference, transforming a simple star-gazing session into an engaging learning experience.

Practical Tips and Considerations for Participants

Participants are advised to dress warmly, as temperatures drop significantly at high altitude and during nighttime. The tour’s 2 hours and 30 minutes duration allows enough time for both sunset and star viewing, but cloudy weather can affect visibility. The experience is weather-dependent, so a clear night is essential for optimal star gazing.

The tour is accessible to most travelers, and service animals are allowed. It accommodates up to 45 travelers, balancing a cozy group atmosphere with enough space for everyone. Since it’s a self-drive experience, travelers must have a valid driver’s license, and the tour provides expert guidance to ensure a safe, enjoyable journey.

The Value of a Self-Drive Experience in Tenerife’s Night Sky

The self-drive format is one of the tour’s unique features, offering greater flexibility compared to traditional bus tours. Travelers have the freedom to explore at their own pace, with the guides providing expert advice rather than leading a large group. This allows for more personalized photography and a quieter, more intimate connection with the landscape.

Despite some opinions that the $40 fee might seem high for just following a van, reviews emphasize that the knowledge, telescopes, and the astrophotography opportunity elevate the experience beyond just star-gazing. The ability to capture stunning images of the Milky Way under the guidance of professionals adds significant value.

The Experience’s Strengths and Limitations

Strengths of this tour include expert guides, high-quality telescopes, and the combination of sunset and star viewing in a dark skies environment. The scenic stops and educational commentary enrich the experience, making it suitable for both casual visitors and amateur astronomers.

A notable limitation is the weather dependency—cloud cover or poor conditions can prevent star visibility. Also, since dinner is not included, participants should plan accordingly. The self-drive aspect might not appeal to everyone, especially those preferring guided transportation, but it does offer more independence.

Who Will Appreciate This Sunset and Star-Gazing Tour?

This self-drive tour will appeal most to adventurous travelers who enjoy scenic drives and want a personalized experience under Tenerife’s dark skies. It suits photographers, astronomy enthusiasts, and nature lovers eager to combine stunning sunsets with unforgettable star views. The informative guides and quality telescopes ensure both education and entertainment.

Participants who appreciate flexibility and are prepared for cold temperatures will find this tour particularly rewarding. It’s less suitable for those seeking a more guided, less independent experience or travelers who prefer dinner included.

The Meeting Point: Mirador de los Poleos

The adventure begins at Mirador de los Poleos, a west-facing lookout perched on the lava fields of Boca Cranjero. This historic site offers sweeping views of Tenerife’s volcanic landscape and is famous for hosting Cristopher Columbus’ observations of the first recorded eruption in the area. Here, travelers enjoy a spectacular sunset, often marked by vivid red hues painting the sky as the sun dips below Mount Teide.

This location is praised for its photographic potential, with panoramic vistas ideal for capturing the transition from daylight to night. The guide’s tips help maximize your photography, making this stop a highlight for both casual photographers and serious shutterbugs.

The Sunset Experience with Cava

As the sunset unfolds, participants have the chance to toast with a glass of cava, Spain’s sparkling wine. The relaxed atmosphere at this vantage point encourages conversation and appreciation of the natural surroundings. The spectacle of Mount Teide changing colors offers excellent photo opportunities and sets the perfect mood for the evening ahead.

The guides provide insightful commentary about the landscape and volcanic history while guests soak in the breathtaking views. This moment captures the essence of the tour—combining scenic beauty, education, and a bit of celebration.

Journeying into Teide National Park’s Volcanoes

After sunset, the tour drives through volcanic terrain, passing landmarks like Mount Chinyero, the site of Tenerife’s last eruption in 1909. This drive offers views of raw lava flows and rugged landscape, with explanations about the geological history of the area.

Travelers often comment on the impressive scenery and the informative commentary from guides about the volcanoes’ activity and their role in shaping Tenerife’s landscape. The drive adds an educational layer to the experience, making it more than just a star-gazing trip.

The Cant-miss Stargazing Spot and Telescope Views

The final part of the tour takes place at a dedicated dark sky viewing point. Here, telescopes are set up to reveal planets, stars, and the Milky Way in stunning detail. The clarity of the Tenerife night sky is praised for allowing remarkably vivid views, which many say surpass typical stargazing experiences.

Guides like Phil, Steve, and Pete lead the star identification, sharing knowledgeable insights in a friendly manner. They help guests spot constellations and planets, making the sky accessible and fascinating, especially under the dark skies of Teide.

Practical Advice for a Successful Night Sky Experience

Weather plays a crucial role; clear skies are essential for the best star views. Since the experience is weather-dependent, participants should dress warmly, as temperatures can drop sharply at night. The tour’s duration allows sufficient time to enjoy both sunset and star gazing, but delays or cancellations can occur if weather conditions are poor.

The self-drive format means travelers need a valid driver’s license, but they gain more control over their schedule and pace. The guides provide valuable instruction to make the most of the telescopic views, especially for those new to astronomy.

The Unique Appeal of the Self-Drive Format

Unlike bus-based star tours, this self-drive experience offers independent exploration with guided support. Travelers enjoy more privacy and the chance to capture images without rushed schedules. The guides’ expert advice adds significant value, especially for astrophotographers aiming to snap stunning images of the Milky Way or planets.

While some may find the extra €40 fee for following the van unnecessary, reviews emphasize that the knowledge, telescopes, and flexibility justify the cost. The personalized experience is what we love about this tour from more traditional star-gazing excursions.

Strengths and Potential Weaknesses

The strengths lie in professional guides, excellent telescopes, and the combination of sunset and star viewing in a dark sky environment. The educational element and high-quality equipment make it appealing for both novices and astronomy enthusiasts.

A limitation is the weather dependency, which can prevent star visibility and alter the experience. Also, the absence of dinner means participants need to plan meals separately. The self-drive approach might not suit everyone, particularly those preferring guided transportation and less independence.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour benefits adventurers and photographers who value personal freedom and want an interactive experience under Tenerife’s dark skies. It’s ideal for nature lovers eager for a combination of scenic sunset views and celestial wonders. Everyone should take warm clothing, as it gets quite cold at altitude once the sun sets.

Those interested in learning about volcanic geology or capturing astrophotography will find strong value here. However, travelers seeking a more guided or meal-included experience might prefer other options.

The Polestar SELF-DRIVE Sunset Stars Tour stands out for its flexibility, educational value, and stunning scenery. The expert guides, quality telescopes, and spectacular sunset views make it a memorable choice for travelers wanting to combine natural beauty with nighttime astronomy.

While weather conditions can influence the experience, when skies are clear, the dark skies of Tenerife provide an extraordinary backdrop for star gazing. The self-drive format offers more control and privacy, making it suitable for those comfortable with driving and eager for a personalized adventure.

This tour is especially recommended for photographers, geology buffs, and star lovers who want a more independent yet guided experience that captures Tenerife’s volcanic and celestial wonders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Since the tour involves driving and high-altitude conditions, it is best suited for adults or older children comfortable with the cold and the drive.

Do I need my own car?
Yes, as it is a self-drive experience, participants need a valid driver’s license and their own vehicle to participate.

What should I wear on the tour?
Participants should dress warmly, especially warm clothing and layers, because temperatures drop at night in the park.

Is dinner included in the tour?
No, dinner is not included, so plan to have a meal beforehand.

What happens if the weather is cloudy?
The experience is weather-dependent. If skies are too cloudy for star gazing, the tour offers a different date or full refund.

Can service animals participate?
Yes, service animals are allowed on the tour.

How many people can join this tour?
The maximum group size is 45 travelers, ensuring a comfortable yet lively experience.

What sets this tour apart from other star-gazing options?
The self-drive format gives more independence, while the expert guides and professional telescopes ensure a high-quality viewing experience with ample educational insight.