The Teide Observatory (Observatorio del Teide) is ideal for those who would also like to discover one of Tenerife’s most remarkable scientific attractions. This experience is not a traditional excursion, but an insight into the world of an internationally significant observatory, where the island’s exceptional skies become a valuable resource for scientific research.
The Teide Observatory is one of the world’s most important observatories and, alongside Chile and Hawaii, is regarded as one of the leading locations for astronomy. Its high-altitude setting, clean air and exceptionally favourable viewing conditions make this part of Tenerife an ideal location for observing the sky and the Sun.
During the visit, you can gain a closer understanding of how researchers work in such a unique environment. International scientific teams study the Sun and various phenomena of the universe here, while the volcanic landscape of Teide provides a spectacular backdrop to the experience.
One of the observatory’s most prominent instruments is GREGOR, Europe’s largest solar telescope. This 1.5-metre (4.9-foot) telescope is used for detailed observations of the Sun’s surface and atmosphere, demonstrating the scale of the international scientific research carried out in Tenerife’s high-altitude observatory zone.
It is important to know that this programme is not an evening stargazing experience, but a daytime visit to the observatory. It is therefore recommended for those who are interested not only in the spectacular panoramic views, but also in understanding why Tenerife is considered one of the world’s leading scientific locations.
The Teide Observatory is a short, informative and unique programme: an ideal choice for those who would like to experience more than Tenerife’s beaches, volcanic landscapes and traditional excursions, and are looking for a rarer, more intellectually engaging and memorable experience.
WHERE AND WHEN?
Izaña, Teide National Park
Every day of the week
(the exact start times vary by day)
You’ll find the available start times in the booking section, making it easy to choose the one that best fits your plans for the day.
The programme starts on the date and at the exact time stated in the booking.
PARKING
PARKING (Google Maps) (the observatory's internal car park, free of charge)
LOCATION (on foot)
MEETING POINT (Google Maps)
Check-in is at the guard booth next to the barrier
PROGRAMME TYPE
Indoor and outdoor
PREGNANCY
The programme can be visited during pregnancy.
/as the location is situated at an altitude of approx. 2,390 metres (7,840 feet) - where oxygen levels are lower -, consulting a doctor before participating is recommended/
ACCESSIBLE
/wheelchair or pushchair/
No
PETS
Pets are not allowed on the programme.
ORDER OF ARRIVAL
The order of arrival is not important.
TOILETS
Available.
IMPORTANT! In accordance with local regulations, toilet paper must be placed in the bins provided in the toilets.
SMOKING
Smoking is prohibited throughout Teide National Park.
HOW DOES THE PROGRAMME WORK?
(example of a morning time slot)
09:40 (9:40 AM): arrival by car, passing through the barrier, parking
09:45 (9:45 AM): guest welcome and check-in at the guard booth
10:00 (10 AM): walk up to the central area (approx. 350 metres / 1,148 ft)
10:15 (10:15 AM): spoken introduction to the observatory and the telescopes
10:45 (10:45 AM): indoor audiovisual presentation
11:15 (11:15 AM): solar observation through 2-3 outdoor telescopes
11:30 (11:30 AM): introduction to the Carlos Sánchez Telescope
11:45 (11:45 AM): walk back to the car park (approx. 350 metres / 1,148 ft)
12:00 (12 noon): end of the programme
DIFFICULTY LEVEL
Low - the programme is easy to complete
AVAILABLE LANGUAGES
Guided tour language: Spanish, English, German, French
Staff: Spanish, English
Participation in the programme requires knowledge of one of the available languages.
DETAILS REQUIRED FOR BOOKING
From the person making the booking:
• name as shown on official documents
• email address
• phone number
• billing address
RECOMMENDED BOOKING PERIOD
2 months - 14 days in advance
BOOKING DEADLINE
7 days in advance
RECOMMENDED BOOKING PERIOD
2 months - 14 days in advance
BOOKING DEADLINE
7 days in advance
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
• children aged 0-7 may not participate in the activity
• children aged 8-17 may only participate in the activity when accompanied by an adult
• participation in the activity is only permitted on the exact date and at the exact time specified in the booking
• the starting time depends on the selected day
• arrival 30 minutes before the activity starts is recommended
• participation in the activity requires language skills
• taking photos and recording videos during the activity is permitted
• souvenirs can also be purchased at the venue
• smoking is prohibited throughout Teide National Park
• leaving the designated trails during the activity is prohibited
• collecting, taking away or keeping stones as souvenirs within Teide National Park is strictly prohibited and may result in a fine
• consuming food anywhere on the observatory premises is prohibited
• in accordance with local regulations, toilet paper must be placed in the waste bin provided in the restroom
• in extreme weather conditions, the activity may be modified or cancelled (details: FAQ)
HEALTH INFORMATION
• difficulty level: low - the activity is easy to complete
• the activity is not wheelchair accessible
• pregnant women may participate in the activity
• participation should be carefully considered in case of rheumatic or musculoskeletal conditions
• due to the high altitude above sea level (2,390 metres (7,840 feet)), headaches, dizziness, shortness of breath or feeling unwell may occur in very rare cases; if this happens, the guide must be informed immediately and, if necessary, you must descend to a lower altitude
HOW SHOULD YOU PREPARE?
• layered, comfortable clothing
• closed, stable, flat-soled, comfortable and non-slip footwear
• headwear (a cap or hat that cannot be blown off by the wind)
• high-quality, polarised sunglasses
• sunscreen (due to the strong UV radiation)
• mineral water (min. 1 litre / approx. 34 US fl oz per person)
IN WINTER
+ layered, comfortable, warm clothing
+ two pairs of socks
+ warm headwear, scarf and gloves
PARKING | the Teide Observatory’s internal car park (free of charge)
MEETING POINT
en 
Teide National Park | Izaña
1.5 hours
4.6 (2.0 K)
