Mount Teide Observatory: Tickets and Tours

The Mount Teide Observatory in Tenerife is the largest solar observatory in the world. It’s one of the best places to observe the sky, thanks to the island’s latitude and altitude.

During your visit, you’ll learn about astrophysics and astronomy, as well as the history and science behind ground-breaking solar system discoveries. Your Mount Teide Observatory tickets also give you access to the powerful onsite telescopes, letting you view the sun and the stars up close.

Continue reading our guide for useful information on the Mount Teide Observatory, one of the most thriling attractions in Tenerife.

How much do Mount Teide Observatory tickets cost?

The only way to visit the observatory is on a guided tour. These take place either in the daytime or during the late afternoon and evening. Note that children under the age of eight are not permitted on these visits.

Daytime Mount Teide Observatory entry

A daytime visit to the observatory is the cheapest way to enjoy the experience. This Mount Teide Observatory ticket does not include transport, just the attraction entrance and a guided tour.

• Adult (17+ years): €21
• Child (8-16 years): Free

Afternoon visit and star gazing tour

The Mount Teide Observatory rate for these visits covers a guided afternoon tour plus evening star gazing. Pickups from key resorts in the north and south of the island are also included.

• Adult (14+ years): €95
• Child (8-13 years): €57

Who is eligible for discounts?

The Mount Teide Observatory entrance fee is discounted for Canary Islands residents – the price is reduced to €12.60. ID may be required so remember to take this with you – if you forget you could be charged the full admission rate.

Should I book my tickets in advance?

It’s best to arrange your Mount Teide Observatory tickets well in advance of your intended visit date. Since the only way to experience the observatory is on a guided tour, there are limited places available, and timeslots can sell out.

Another advantage of booking ahead is that you can compare prices online. You can do this on TourScanner to find the cheapest deals.

What are the most popular Mount Teide Observatory tours?

Daytime Mount Teide Observatory tours

The most popular Mount Teide Observatory guided tours take place in the daytime. You’ll visit the observatory in a small group setting, with plenty of personal attention from the guide. These trips last around 1.5 hours and don’t include transport.

You will have the opportunity to learn about astrophysics, before looking at the sun through two different telescopes. Your guide will ensure that you make the most of your experience with both historical and technical insights throughout.

Afternoon Mount Teide Observatory tours with evening star gazing

These guided excursions depart in the late afternoon, so you’ll get to see the sunset over Teide National Park. The tours are longer than the daytime visits, giving you a more thorough observatory experience. They tend to last around 8 hours with transport usually included.

You will spend the afternoon at the observatory, followed by an evening star gazing session using powerful telescopes. It’s a romantic evening out and can be combined with dinner for an extra special touch.

Are there any combined tickets or tours including the Mount Teide Observatory and other attractions?

Buying a combination ticket will allow you to pack in as much sightseeing as possible in a short space of time. It’s a great way to save money too, as you won’t need to purchase separate entrance tickets or tour guides.

• Mount Teide Observatory tickets plus La Orotava and La Laguna tour: Admire the solar system from the observatory then explore the pretty town of La Orotava and the historic streets of San Cristóbal de la Laguna.

What will I see there?

The Observatory

The Mount Teide Observatory has been in operation since 1964 and was founded by pioneering astronomer Piazzi Smyth. He came to Tenerife searching for high-mountain skies which would be the ideal location for a solar observatory.

Researchers are hard at work here all the time, contributing to scientific discovery on a daily basis. During your visit, you’ll feel like a true scientist as you learn about the telescopes and solar projects currently in operation at the observatory.

Solar observations

First up on your tour is a workshop on astrophysics at the visitor center. Here, you’ll find out more about the solar system, distant galaxies and our place in the universe. This is included in the Mount Teide Observatory tickets price.

The highlight of your visit will be observing sunspots and solar flares through the two telescopes in the observatory.

There will also be a chance to look inside a nocturnal telescope to help you understand how all the science works. Enjoy a history input from your guide about how telescopes have developed over the centuries.

Star gazing

If you’ve purchased afternoon Mount Teide Observatory tickets, you’ll be treated to sunset over the national park as well as some night sky viewing.

This is one of the best places in the world to star gaze, and seeing the celestial skies twinkling above is a truly magical experience. You’ll get to see the stars up close by using the high-tech telescopes which will be at your disposal.

How to get there?

It’s easy to enjoy a Mount Teide Observatory visit, wherever you are staying on the island. The site is located in the heart of the national park, on the flanks of the Mount Teide volcano. Some Mount Teide Observatory tours include round-trip transport, while for others, you’ll need to make your own way there.

If you have a car and are staying in the south of the island, the best route is via Arona and Vilaflor. The 47-kilometer drive is one of the prettiest on the island – the trip takes a couple of hours. You’ll need to arrive at the observatory entry gate half an hour before your guided tour time slot.

Since you’re in the national park, it makes sense to combine your visit with a ride on the Teide Cable Car. The views from the top of the volcano are staggering.

What are the opening times?

Tours of the Mount Teide Observatory are generally scheduled for 10 AM, 12:30 PM or 3 PM. You can only visit on a guided excursion and should book your tickets before arriving.

Is it wheelchair friendly?

Part of the tour at the Mount Teide Observatory involves walking up stairs and moving around on rocky ground outside. Therefore, this visit is unfortunately not recommended for people with mobility problems.

When is the best time to visit the Mount Teide Observatory?

The best time to visit the Mount Teide Observatory is during the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant, and there are fewer tourists. Check the observatory's event calendar for specific astronomical events or stargazing opportunities.

Which other attractions can be visited in Tenerife?

• Casa de los Balcones

Travel tips

• Plan your visit ahead and check the opening hours and availability of guided tours. Some activities may require advance booking.
• Bring warm clothing, even in summer as temperatures can change throughout the day.
• Consider spending a day in Tenerife before visiting the observatory to acclimate and reduce the risk of altitude sickness if you're not used to high altitudes.