The best places to enjoy the night sky
Tenerife is much more than beaches and volcanic landscapes. The Canary Island is internationally recognized as one of the best places on the planet for stargazing. Its privileged location, the altitude of its mountains, and the low light pollution turn the skies of Tenerife into a true night spectacle. Not surprisingly, the skies of the Canary Islands are certified by the Starlight Foundation, which guarantees their astronomical quality.
If you stay at the Hotel AF Valle de Orotava in Puerto de la Cruz, you will be in a strategic spot to explore the most magical places to observe constellations, planets, and the Milky Way. In this article, we’ll show you where to see the stars in Tenerife and how to enjoy a unique experience under the island’s night sky.
Why is Tenerife a paradise for stargazing?
The Canary archipelago is one of the most valued destinations in the world for astrotourism. In the case of Tenerife, several factors combine to create an ideal setting:
- Skies certified by the Starlight Foundation: guaranteeing exceptional observation conditions.
- Altitude: Mount Teide, at more than 3,700 meters, rises above the clouds, offering clear and clean skies.
- Low light pollution: much of the territory is protected to preserve the purity of the night sky.
- Stable climate: Tenerife enjoys more than 3,000 hours of sunshine a year and a high percentage of clear nights.
Thanks to all this, more and more travelers come to the island in search of astronomy-related experiences.
The best places to see stars in Tenerife
Teide National Park
Teide National Park is undoubtedly the most famous place for astronomical observation. Located at more than 2,000 meters above sea level, it offers unique conditions for stargazing.
From its viewpoints, you can clearly see the Milky Way, meteor showers such as the Perseids, or even planets visible to the naked eye. In addition, numerous companies organize night astronomical tours that combine walks through the park with guided explanations and the use of professional telescopes.
La Fortaleza Viewpoint
This viewpoint, also within the National Park, is less crowded than other spots and offers a quieter experience. Surrounded by spectacular volcanic landscapes, it is perfect for those seeking silence and the immensity of the sky without large crowds.
Teide Observatory (Izaña)
Located in the Izaña area, at about 2,400 meters above sea level, lies one of the world’s most important astronomical research centers. The Teide Observatory offers guided tours where visitors can learn about the scientific work carried out there and take part in solar and nighttime observation activities.
Viewpoints of Northern Tenerife
In the northern part of the island, closer to the Hotel AF Valle de Orotava, there are also perfect spots to gaze at the sky:
- La Corona Viewpoint (Los Realejos): known for its spectacular views of the Orotava Valley and the sea. At night, it is an excellent place to see the stars.
- San Pedro Viewpoint (La Guancha): combines nature, hiking, and wide-open views of the night sky.
Both viewpoints allow you to enjoy an astronomical experience without being too far from Puerto de la Cruz.
Less illuminated coastal areas
Although altitude favors observation, it is also possible to enjoy starry nights along the coast. Dark beaches such as El Bollullo or Los Patos in the north provide an intimate setting to watch the sky reflected over the ocean.
Tips for enjoying stargazing in Tenerife
To make the most of your astronomical experience, keep these recommendations in mind:
- Dress warmly: at higher altitudes, temperatures drop significantly at night, even in summer.
- Choose nights without a full moon: the brightness of the moon can reduce the visibility of stars.
- Use astronomy apps: apps like Sky Map or Stellarium help identify constellations and planets.
- Bring a red-light flashlight: it illuminates without dazzling or losing night vision adaptation.
- Book tours in advance: demand is high, especially during peak season.
Organized astronomical experiences in Tenerife
Astrotourism has become a booming activity on the island. There are several options for those who want a guided experience:
- Night tours in Teide: include transportation, expert guides, and telescope observation.
- Night photography: workshops to learn how to capture the starry sky with a camera.
- Astronomical events: on specific dates, special activities are organized, such as meteor showers or theme nights in the National Park.
These experiences are ideal for families, couples, or astronomy lovers who want to take home unforgettable memories of Tenerife.
Your ideal starting point: Hotel AF Valle de Orotava in Puerto de la Cruz
If you are looking for a comfortable and central accommodation to discover the starry skies of the island, Hotel AF Valle de Orotava is your best choice.
- Its location in Puerto de la Cruz places you close to the main viewpoints in the north and only one hour from Teide National Park.
- It offers modern, cozy rooms and a terrace with views of Mount Teide and the Atlantic Ocean, perfect to start stargazing without leaving the hotel.
- After a night of astrotourism, you can relax with all the services and comforts the hotel provides.
Book your stay at Hotel AF Valle de Orotava and enjoy a unique experience under the cleanest and starriest sky in Europe.
Tenerife is a true sanctuary for astronomy lovers. From the imposing Teide to the northern viewpoints and the quiet coastal beaches, every corner of the island offers an unforgettable night show.
Hotel AF Valle de Orotava is the perfect place to stay while exploring the best sites for stargazing in Tenerife. Get ready to be amazed by a sky that, night after night, connects travelers with the immensity of the universe.
