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
between 10:00 (10:00 AM) and 17:00 (5:00 PM)
(the exact start times vary by 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 site is located at approx. 2,400 metres (7,874 ft) above sea level - where oxygen levels are lower -, medical advice is recommended before taking part/
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.
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 (10:00 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
WHAT SHOULD YOU BRING?
• layered, comfortable, warm clothing
• closed, comfortable, non-slip footwear (entry is not permitted in open shoes)
• head covering (cap or hat - something the wind will not blow off your head)
• quality sunglasses (preferably polarised)
• sunscreen (if you are prone to sunburn)
• mineral water (min. 1 litre / approx. 34 US fl oz per person)
INFORMATION
• the programme is not night-time stargazing, but a daytime observatory visit
• children aged 0-7 cannot take part in the programme
• arrival is recommended 20-30 minutes before the start
• photography and video recording are allowed during the programme
• eating is not permitted anywhere on the observatory grounds
• leaving the marked paths is prohibited
• in line with local regulations, toilet paper must be placed in the waste bin provided in the toilets
• an identity card or passport is required for every participant
• souvenirs can also be purchased on site
• in extreme weather conditions, the programme may be modified or cancelled (details: FAQ)
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.
TICKET TYPES
Only one ticket type is available for this programme.
Tickets are accepted in both digital and printed format.
DETAILS REQUIRED FOR BOOKING
(from the person making the booking)
• name as shown on official documents
• email address
• phone number
• billing address
• preferred language
LATEST BOOKING
2 days in advance
USEFUL INFORMATION
• participation in the programme requires knowledge of one of the available languages
• you can only take part in the programme on the date and at the exact time stated in the booking
• an identity card or passport is required for every participant
• arrival is recommended 20-30 minutes before the start
• layered, comfortable, warm clothing
• closed, comfortable, non-slip footwear (entry is not permitted in open shoes)
• head covering (cap or hat - something the wind will not blow off your head)
• quality sunglasses (preferably polarised)
• sunscreen (due to the strong UV radiation)
• mineral water (min. 1 litre / approx. 34 US fl oz per person)
• eating is not permitted anywhere on the observatory grounds
• in line with local regulations, toilet paper must be placed in the waste bin provided in the toilets
• leaving the marked paths is prohibited
• in extreme weather conditions, the programme may be modified or cancelled (details: FAQ)
PARKING | the Teide Observatory’s internal car park (free of charge)
MEETING POINT
TICKET TYPES
Only one ticket type is available for this programme.
Tickets are accepted in both digital and printed format.
PRICES
| Adult (17-) | Child (8-16) | Child (0-7) |
| ADMISSION TICKET | €21 | FREE | NO |
CANCELLATION POLICY
1/ At least 48 hours (2 days) before the programme starts, the booking can be changed or cancelled free of charge. In this case, you can choose from the following options:
a) the booking can be moved to another available time
b) the amount paid can be partly or fully used towards booking another programme
c) you can request a voucher, which can be used for programmes in the FINESTPASS™ offer for 5 years from the date of issue
d) 100% of the amount paid will be refunded
2/ If the booking is cancelled within 48 hours (2 days) before the programme starts, the amount paid is non-refundable.
3/ If the provider cancels the programme (for example due to adverse weather conditions, technical reasons, or any other circumstance affecting the provider's operation), you can choose from the following options:
a) the booking can be moved to another available time free of charge
b) the amount paid can be partly or fully used towards booking another programme
c) you can request a voucher, which can be used for programmes in the FINESTPASS™ offer for 5 years from the date of issue
d) 100% of the amount paid will be refunded
4/ If you do not show up for the programme, or if the provider can no longer ensure your participation due to your late arrival, the booking will automatically be considered used. In this case, the opportunity to participate is lost, and the amount paid is non-refundable.
✔︎ For bookings made with a deposit payment, the 4 points above also apply.
In practice, this means: if you cancel the booking within 48 hours before the programme starts, or do not show up for any reason, you will not only lose the deposit. In this case, the remaining balance must also be paid.
Further details:
FAQ
en 
Teide National Park | Izaña
1.5 hours
4.6 (2.0 K)
