Sunset and Stars at Teide National Park

Visiting Tenerife offers an exceptional chance to witness both a breathtaking sunset and a captivating starry sky in one evening. The Sunset and Stars at Teide National Park tour, priced at $69.77 per person, lasts about 4 hours 30 minutes and includes private transportation from your accommodation in the south of Tenerife. This tour is especially suitable for those who want to relax and enjoy the scenery without the hassle of organizing transport or equipment. It features a visit to Los Poleos viewpoint to admire the sunset, followed by a star-gazing session with telescopes and expert explanations.

While the tour offers many highlights, it’s worth noting that cold weather is common during the evening, so warm clothing is highly recommended. Plus, the tour’s group size averages around 20 travelers, making it a comfortable experience, though some reviews mention that the sunset area can become crowded. This experience suits travelers eager to combine natural beauty with a bit of astronomy, especially those who appreciate guided insights and high-quality equipment.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: Priced at $69.77 per person for approximately 4 hours 30 minutes.
• All-Inclusive Transport: Private pickup and air-conditioned vehicle transportation remove the hassle of self-driving.
• Sunset Experience: View the sunset from Los Poleos viewpoint, enjoy a glass of cava, and soak in stunning views of La Palma, La Gomera, and El Hierro.
• Star Gazing with Telescopes: Use telescopes and tripods to explore the night sky, including galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters like the Pleiades.
• Expert Guidance: Guides explain constellation patterns, how to find Polaris, and share Greek mythology related to stars.
• Photos and Memories: Astrophotography sessions capture images of guests under the starry sky, downloadable after the tour.

Pick-up and Transportation from Southern Tenerife

The adventure begins with a hotel pickup in the south of Tenerife, where a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle transports guests to the scenic viewpoints. The private transfer ensures a relaxed start, avoiding the need to rent a car or navigate unfamiliar roads.

The tour typically departs from centrally located pick-up points near accommodations, making it easy for travelers to join without extra hassle. The group size is limited to 20 travelers maximum, balancing intimacy with the opportunity to meet others sharing the experience.

Sunset Stop at Los Poleos Viewpoint with Cava Toast

The first highlight is a stop at Los Poleos viewpoint, where the sunset over the Atlantic provides an unforgettable spectacle. During this time, guests enjoy a glass of cava, Spanish sparkling wine, complemented by scenic views of nearby islands La Palma, La Gomera, and El Hierro.

The sunset experience is described as beautiful, with some reviews emphasizing the importance of dressing warmly due to the chill in the mountain air. The guides ensure everyone gets a good view and plenty of photo opportunities, making it a perfect time to relax and appreciate the natural beauty of Tenerife’s landscape.

Moving into the Teide National Park for Stargazing

After sunset, the tour vehicle moves to a second viewpoint deeper within Teide National Park. Here, the focus shifts from the sunset to the night sky. The telescopes and tripods provided allow for close-up views of celestial objects, with a 12-inch Dobsonian telescope enhancing the experience.

Depending on the time of year, guests can expect to observe:
– The Moon, particularly before the full moon phase
– Galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters, such as the Pleiades (Seven Sisters) in Taurus during winter
– Bright planets like Venus and Mercury, and sometimes Saturn

Guides lead the group through a laser-guided explanation of constellations, star names, and Greek mythology. They also show how to locate the North Star (Polaris) and the Andromeda galaxy, providing a well-rounded introduction to astronomy.

Guides and Their Approach to Astronomy

The tour features knowledgeable guides who are passionate about sharing their expertise. Guides like Daniele, Steve, and Alessandro are praised for their clear explanations, making complex topics accessible for all levels. They also assist with astrophotography techniques, capturing high-quality images of guests under the starry sky.

Guests consistently comment on the guides’ friendly manner and willingness to answer questions, creating a relaxed, educational atmosphere. The rearrangement of tours in case of weather issues showcases the guides’ commitment to providing a successful experience.

Equipment and Astronomy Highlights

The telescopes used are top-notch, allowing for detailed observation of celestial objects. The laser pointers help identify constellations and important stars, making the night sky easier to navigate. This setup offers a more interactive experience than simply viewing the sky unaided.

The astrophotography segment enables guests to take home a personalized photo of themselves beneath the stars, which can be downloaded from the tour’s Facebook page. While high-resolution images are not included, the souvenir still offers a meaningful memory of the evening.

Practical Tips for the Tour

Participants are advised to dress warmly because mountain evenings tend to be cold and windy. The tour generally operates in good weather, but poor weather conditions can lead to cancellations with a full refund or rescheduling.

The tour is mostly suitable for most travelers, with children older than 6-7 years able to participate. However, some reviews note that standing for extended periods may be a concern for those with limited mobility or very young children. The tour operator emphasizes safety and comfort, but outdoor conditions mean there are no facilities at the viewing spots.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Others

One notable feature is the combination of sunset viewing and stargazing in one evening, providing a comprehensive natural experience. The inclusion of private transport means no worries about navigating or parking, while the expert guides and quality telescopes ensure high engagement and learning.

The small group size allows for a more personalized experience, with some reviews highlighting the passion and knowledge of the guides. The astrophotography element adds a unique touch, giving guests a lasting memory of their night under the stars.

Limitations and Considerations

Some reviews mention crowded sunset viewpoints and long waiting times due to traffic or road closures, especially during peak seasons. Participants should be prepared for cold weather and standing for long periods. Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall experience remains highly rated for its scenic beauty and educational value.

The tour is not inclusive of dinner, so guests should plan accordingly if they prefer a meal afterward. Also, weather conditions are beyond the operator’s control, so flexibility is necessary.

Sunset and Stars at Teide National Park: A Practical Choice

This tour offers a well-organized, educational, and beautiful evening combining Tenerife’s spectacular sunset with a stargazing session suitable for all levels of interest. The private transport, quality telescopes, and knowledgeable guides make it a top choice for those seeking a comprehensive natural experience in Tenerife.

While it is priced slightly higher than some other options, the value is reflected in the personalized service, high-quality equipment, and memorable moments. Travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures, learning about astronomy, or simply soaking up scenic views will find this tour particularly rewarding.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the Sunset and Stars tour?
The tour costs $69.77 per person, including transport, telescopes, and a drink during sunset.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 4 hours 30 minutes, starting with sunset viewing and ending with star gazing.

Where does the tour pick up from?
The tour departs from pick-up points near accommodations in the south of Tenerife.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children older than 6-7 years can participate, with booster seats available for younger children.

What should I bring for the star gazing?
Dress warmly due to the mountain evening chill; no specific gear is required as telescopes and tripods are provided.

What celestial objects will I see?
Depending on the time of year, expect to see the Moon, galaxies, nebulae, star clusters like the Pleiades, and planets such as Venus and Mercury.

Is there food included in the tour?
No, dinner is not included; guests are encouraged to eat beforehand or plan for after the tour.

What happens in case of poor weather?
The tour can be canceled due to poor weather, in which case a full refund or rescheduling is offered.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 20 travelers, ensuring a comfortable and engaging experience.

Can I take photos during the star gazing?
Yes, astrophotography is encouraged, and high-quality images are downloadable afterward.

Are the telescopes used suitable for detailed viewing?
Absolutely, a 12-inch Dobsonian telescope is used to provide clear, close-up views of celestial objects.