Guided visit of the Observatory

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Description
History & Heritage
Visitor Tips

Guided visit of the Observatory

Guided Visit of the Teide Observatory
Our guided visit will allow you to get to know the observatory and the daily activity of the researchers who work there.

The Canary Islands is one of the three best spots in the world to observe the sky, along with Chile and Hawaii. The Teide Observatory is the largest solar observatory in the world and it contains many solar and nocturnal telescopes owned by various European countries.

If you would like to make your own way to the Izaña Observatory for your guided visit, you must arrive at least 20 minutes before the tour is scheduled to start. Visits are carried out on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 12:00 h and 14:00 h in Spanish. English visits are carried out on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 12:00 h. German visits are held on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 14:00 h.

The Teide Observatory is located at an altitude of 2,390 m, in the area of Izaña. The entrance of the observatory is located at Km. 37 of the TF-24 highway.

Pick up points for the 12:00 visit in Spanish and English on Wednesdays:

08:35 h. Riu Arecas
08:45 h. Isla Bonita
09:00 h. Bouganville
09:10 h. Tropical Playa
09:15 h. Best Tenerife
09:30 h. Princesa Dácil
10:50 h. Cable car

Pick up points for the 14:00 visit in Spanish and German on Wednesdays:

10:35 h. Riu Arecas
10:45 h. Isla Bonita
11:00 h. Bouganville
11:10 h. Tropical Playa
11:15 h. Best Tenerife
11:30 h. Princesa Dácil
12:50 h. Cable car

Observatory for Educational Centres
If you represent a group of students of an educational centre in the Canary Islands and you wish to visit the Teide Observatory, please fill out the following questionnaire and we will contact you as soon as possible. Visits are available between April and October.

Highlights

Guided Visit of the Teide Observatory
You must be at the entrance to the Observatory at least 20 minutes before the visit begins. If you do not arrive on time and the visit has already started you will not be able to enter the Observatory and you can visit on another day.

What's included

Guided visit of the Observatory
A Guide
Transportation available on Wednesdays from Costa adeje and Los Cristianos

What's not included

Transportation on Mondays and Fridays from the southern part of the island
Transportation from northern part of the island

Additional Information
Purchase of this service, or filling out the reservation form in the case of students in the province of Tenerife, implies that you have read and accepted all the points described in this section.

RECOMMENDATIONS AND WARNINGS FOR VISITORS

We appreciate your interest in visiting the Teide Observatory and we hope that you enjoy your visit.

The Teide Observatory is not responsible for the difficulties or discomfort caused by not following these recommendations.

The arranged visits will only be carried out when the weather and the operation of the telescopes permit. Due to adverse weather conditions, especially during winter, which may affect the safety of the roads leading to the Observatory (snow, ice, falling rocks) visits may be unexpectedly cancelled.

Before visiting us

Health and altitude

The TO is located at an altitude of approximately 2,400 meters above sea level, an altitude at which oxygen diminishes. Groups will move about within the TO on gravel paths. For this reason it is not recommended that people with general physical problems (anaemia, cardio-pathologies, respiratory problems, etc.). If you are not sure if you should visit, consult your doctor.

The TO is not responsible for any health problems that can be caused by the altitude or by not following these recommendations and notices.

The TO does not have medical assistance within its facilities.

Keep in mind that the closest hospital is approximately one and a half hours away by car.

If you show symptoms of dizziness, nausea, shortness of breath, ringing in your ears or plugged ears or headache during your visit, please let your guide know immediately.

Recommended equipment

Be careful to protect yourself from the sun. It’s recommended that you use hats, sunglasses and sunscreen.
Due to the low levels of humidity that are common in the TO, come prepared with sufficient liquid (water or juices) to prevent dehydration.
Bring comfortable clothes and adequate footwear (avoid sandals).
Bring some warm clothes in case the weather changes abruptly and to enter the interior of the telescopes.

Transportation and punctuality for visits that do not include pick-ups

We ask that you be very punctual. Keep in mind that the Observatory is located at an altitude of 2,400 m and that to reach it you must travel on high mountain roads. Therefore, please make sure that you calculate well he time needed to reach the Observatory.

PLEASE ARRIVE AT LEAST 20 MINUTES BEFORE the scheduled time of the visit at the TO’s gate. When you arrive you will be instructed where to go.

If you arrive late, the visit will be cut short (but it will never be extended) by the same amount of time, and can even be cancelled if the delay is considerable and it causes problems for later scheduled visits.

During the visit

What should I do when I arrive?

When you arrive at the TO, centre personnel will be waiting for you at the access gate to let you know what to do with the car or bus. Please always follow the instructions you receive.

Please do not forget to bring identification (DNI or passport) and a print out of your reservation to confirm access. If you are unable to present identification and/or the reservation, the TO/IAC does not guarantee your visit.

Warnings during the visit

The TO asks you to closely follow the following rules for your visit, for security reasons, proper operation and care of the environment:

- Due to time and limits the organization of the visit, the time to use the rest room is before the visit starts. Please leave them the way you find them!

Please be respectfu

l of the surroundings as the TO is located in a National Park. It is prohibited to:

-Smoke or drink

-Throw away rubbish except where indicated

-Leave the established paths

For your own security, please remain with your assigned group at all times and follow the instructions given by the guide at all times.
In case you are given suits or safety equipment in the facilities area, they should be used and cared for.
It is absolutely prohibited to leave the safety area and touch anything inside the buildings.

Activities

Researchers

History & Heritage

Discover the story behind one of the world's most important astronomical observatories.

Teide Observatory: Exploring the Universe from Tenerife

Perched at approximately 2,390 metres above sea level on the slopes of Mount Teide, the Teide Observatory is one of Europe's most important astronomical research centres.

Located in Izaña, the observatory forms part of the Instituto de Astrofísica de Canarias (IAC) and has played a significant role in advancing our understanding of the Sun and the wider universe.

Why Tenerife?

The Canary Islands are recognised as one of the world's leading locations for astronomical observation, alongside Chile and Hawaii.

Tenerife offers several exceptional natural advantages for astronomy: high altitude, relatively stable atmospheric conditions, low levels of light pollution and many clear nights throughout the year.

At Izaña, the observatory frequently sits above the cloud layer, providing researchers with favourable conditions for observing the sky.

A History of Scientific Discovery

Modern astronomical research at Izaña began developing in the 1960s, with the Teide Observatory officially inaugurated in 1985.

Since then, the observatory has become an internationally recognised scientific facility, hosting telescopes and research instruments operated by institutions from several European countries.

It is particularly renowned for solar astronomy, with specialised telescopes designed to study the Sun's surface, magnetic activity and behaviour.

The observatory also contributes to research involving other celestial objects and astronomical phenomena.

From Ancient Skywatchers to Modern Astronomy

Long before modern telescopes arrived in Tenerife, the island's Indigenous Guanche population observed the skies and developed cultural traditions connected to the natural environment.

Today, Tenerife continues that relationship with the heavens through world-class astronomical research.

A visit to the observatory offers an opportunity to discover how scientists explore the universe, understand the technology behind modern telescopes and appreciate why this volcanic island has become an important centre for astronomy.

Did you know? The Teide Observatory is particularly important for solar research, while the Roque de los Muchachos Observatory on neighbouring La Palma is internationally renowned for its night-time astronomical observations.

Visitor Tips

Everything you need to know before visiting the Teide Observatory.

Before Your Visit

The Teide Observatory is located at approximately 2,390 metres above sea level, where temperatures and weather conditions can be very different from those at the coast.

A little preparation will help you enjoy your visit comfortably and safely.

Arrival and Punctuality

Please arrive at least 20 minutes before your scheduled visit.

The observatory is located at kilometre 37 of the TF-24 highway in the Izaña area.

Allow plenty of time for your journey, particularly if travelling from the south of Tenerife.

Mountain roads can be winding, and weather conditions may affect travel times.

Late arrivals may not be admitted once the guided visit has begun.

What to Bring

Warm clothing: Temperatures can be considerably cooler than at sea level, even during summer.
Comfortable footwear: Wear suitable closed-toe shoes, as parts of the visit involve walking on gravel paths.
Sun protection: Bring sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat. UV exposure can be strong at high altitude.
Drinking water: The dry mountain environment can increase the risk of dehydration.
Identification: Bring your passport or another accepted form of identification.
Booking confirmation: Keep a digital or printed copy of your reservation available.

Health and Altitude

At approximately 2,400 metres, the air contains less oxygen per breath than at sea level.

Visitors may experience the effects of altitude, particularly those with certain heart, respiratory or other medical conditions.

If you have concerns about your health or suitability for visiting a high-altitude location, consult your healthcare professional before booking.

Important: There are no on-site medical facilities at the observatory, and the nearest hospital is a considerable distance away.

If you experience dizziness, nausea, breathing difficulties or headaches during your visit, inform your guide immediately.

Weather Conditions

Observatory visits depend on suitable weather and operational conditions.

During winter, snow, ice and other hazardous mountain conditions can occasionally affect access roads.

Visits may be cancelled or rescheduled if conditions make access unsafe or interfere with observatory operations.

Check your booking information and any updates from the tour operator before travelling.

During Your Visit

The observatory is an active scientific research facility. Visitors must follow the instructions of their assigned guide.

Please respect the following rules:

Stay with your group throughout the guided tour.
Do not enter restricted areas or touch scientific equipment.
Remain on designated paths.
Do not smoke or consume alcohol during the visit.
Dispose of rubbish responsibly.
Follow all safety instructions issued by observatory personnel.
Use the toilet facilities before the guided visit begins, where possible.

Respecting the Environment

The observatory is situated within Tenerife's protected high-altitude landscape.

Help preserve this remarkable environment by respecting local wildlife, vegetation and designated walking routes.

Our Recommendation

Plan to arrive early, bring a warm jacket and take a moment to appreciate the extraordinary volcanic scenery surrounding Izaña.

The journey to the observatory is an experience in itself, offering spectacular views across Tenerife's mountainous landscape.

Guided visit of the Observatory

From $

Our guided visit will allow you to get to know the observatory and the daily activity of the researchers who work there.
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Booking info

Guided visit of the Observatory

Activities

History & Heritage

Teide Observatory: Exploring the Universe from Tenerife

Why Tenerife?

A History of Scientific Discovery

From Ancient Skywatchers to Modern Astronomy

Visitor Tips

Before Your Visit

Arrival and Punctuality

What to Bring

Health and Altitude

Weather Conditions

During Your Visit

Respecting the Environment

Our Recommendation

Aqualand

Teide – Icod – Garachico – Masca

Teide By Night

Teide National Park Excursion

Submarine safaris excursion

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