Best time to visit Canary Islands

Stargazing in Canary Islands

The clear night sky and amazing stars and meteor showers attract many visitors to the Canaries

Best time: March | August

Stargazing
Stargazing
Stargazing

The Canary Islands are perfect for stargazing. The constant trade winds protect the islands from big cloud formations. Thus, most of the time the sky above the Canary Islands is clear. There are even laws protecting it from pollution by controlling light, the atmosphere, radio waves, and even flights. All this together makes it the clearest sky in Europe.

Here you can find world-class astronomic observatories with massive solar telescopes open to the public. The largest telescopes in Europe can be found on Tenerife and La Palma. At the highest peak of La Palma, at 2,396 metres above sea level, you can find one of the best places in the world for stargazing.

Roque de los Muchachos is an incredible spot to enjoy the beauty of the sky. The scene opening to you at night will amaze with its glory and beauty. Skies full of stars glimmering above create an unforgettable atmosphere.

Roque de los Muchachos Observatory has a giant re​flecting telescope, which is perfect for both night and day star watching. The nearby hills and mountains are also suitable for stargazing.

Several companies organize night stargazing tours to the most spectacular viewing spots. Most of these tours will give you a lot of new information about stars as well. Some offer night photography workshops and can help you take stunning pictures. There is no difference whether you are standing on the highest peak or on the coast, either way, you can feel very close to the sky and stars. Just bring some warm clothes and enjoy the magic of the night.

In March you can witness the beginning of meteor shower season in Canaria. If you want to see the largest amount of shooting stars, the first two weeks of August is the best time to come. There is a special calendar for such phenomena. Just prepare your trip beforehand and you can enjoy the truly incredible night sky of the Canaries.

Practical info

When is the best time to visit the Canary Islands for stargazing?

Stargazing in the Canary Islands is best between March and August. This is the meteor shower season, and several shooting stars can be seen during the first weeks of August. To enjoy these unique celestial events, many tourists prepare their trips to the Canary Islands well in advance and follow a dedicated stargazing calendar. Show more

Where are the best spots for stargazing in the Canary Islands?

The highest telescopes in Europe can be found on the Canary Islands, particularly Tenerife and La Palma. The Roque de los Muchachos Observatory on La Palma is an outstanding location for stargazers. Many night stargazing tours are available to take tourists to the most scenic spots with local hills and mountains. Show more

What measures are taken in the Canary Islands to protect the night sky?

Laws are in place to protect the night sky in the Canary Islands from pollution, which covers everything from electricity to radio signals and even airplane flights. These provisions maintain the sky’s pristine transparency and darkness, making it Europe’s clearest sky. Science tourism and education are promoted by several professional observatories that take full advantage of such a unique natural resource. Show more

What can tourists expect from a stargazing tour in the Canary Islands?

Expert guides with extensive knowledge of celestial bodies will lead stargazing tours in the Canary Islands. Photography workshops at night are offered by specific tour companies to capture the beauty of the night sky. Warm clothes are recommended, and tourists are encouraged to prepare themselves for an unforgettable experience that will create memories that last a lifetime. Show more

Are there any unique celestial events that occur in the Canary Islands?

The Canary Islands have several unique celestial events that cater to a broad audience. During early August, tourists can observe the Perseids meteor shower. The Canary Islands also host the Event Horizon Telescope that has several telescopes, and it captured the first picture of a black hole, revealing new horizons and scientific advancements that continue to draw visitors from around the world. Show more

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Last updated: by Eleonora Provozin