Puerto Cruz: VIP Teide Sunset & Stars, Guachiche Lunch+Cava

If you’re visiting Tenerife and looking for a tour that combines natural beauty, cultural flavor, and a touch of magic at night, the VIP Teide Sunset & Stars tour from Puerto de la Cruz offers just that. Spanning around seven hours, this journey takes you through scenic viewpoints, historical sites, and culminates in a breathtaking sunset followed by an unforgettable stargazing experience from Mount Teide.

What really shines about this tour is its balance of delicious local cuisine, expertly curated stops at iconic viewpoints, and the chance to witness the best night skies in the world—a true highlight for anyone who appreciates both nature and culture. That said, it’s worth noting that the tour isn’t ideal if you’re averse to crowds, as sunset views from Teide can get quite popular.

This experience works best for travelers who want an immersive, well-rounded day out, with a taste of local food, stunning landscapes, and starry skies that promise to wow even seasoned travelers.

Key Points

• Authentic Canarian Cuisine: Enjoy a traditional meal in a local Guachinche, a genuine taste of Tenerife’s culinary charm.
• Spectacular Sunset Views: The sunset from Mirador El Retamar offers panoramic views over the island’s landscape.
• Unmatched Stargazing: Experience some of the clearest, darkest skies ideal for star observation, right from Mount Teide.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Manolo enhance the experience with local insights and friendly service.
• Scenic Stops: Discover iconic viewpoints such as Mirador de La Bermeja and Roque Cinchado, perfect for photos and enjoying nature.
• Limited Group Size: An intimate tour with small groups (up to 8 participants) for a more personal experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Pick-up and Starting Point

The tour begins at Mamio Verde Adventures La Paz, where a friendly guide greets you, setting a relaxed tone for the day. Transportation is via a comfortable van, providing a convenient way to cover the distances between stops while enjoying scenic views along the way.

Canarian Lunch at Guachinche El Cubano

One of the tour’s standout moments is the typical Canarian meal served in a local Guachinche. These eateries are the heart of traditional island cuisine, often family-run and full of local character. Guests have praised the meal’s quality, with some reviewers mentioning the excellent wine selection. As one traveler noted, “the lunch was excellent,” with a warm atmosphere that makes you feel like a local for a while.

Scenic Drives and Viewpoints

The itinerary includes stops at Mirador de La Bermeja, Mines of San José, and Roque Cinchado. These spots are chosen for their spectacular vistas and photographic potential. The narrow, winding roads add to the adventure—some reviews mention challenging roads, but most agree that the scenic payoff makes it worthwhile.

At Mirador de La Bermeja, you’ll enjoy a quick, 10-minute photo stop with sweeping views of the landscape. The Mines of San José offers another excellent viewpoint, with a brief 10-minute stop to soak in the scenery. Roque Cinchado, a famous rock formation, provides a perfect photo opportunity with a 30-minute window to appreciate its unique shape and the surrounding scenery.

Sunset from Mirador El Retamar

The highlight of the day is definitely the sunset at Mirador El Retamar, situated at 2,100 meters altitude. Here, you’re treated to spectacular panoramic views as the sun dips below the horizon. Several reviews mention how crowded this spot can get, but most agree that the view is worth sharing with others. The guide often arranges for a scenic aperitif and can provide insightful commentary about the landscape and sunset phenomena.

Mount Teide Stargazing

After sunset, the tour heads into the Teide National Park for the star gazing experience. You’ll ascend Mount Teide, the highest peak in Spain, renowned for its crystal-clear night skies. The guide will help you identify constellations, planets, and celestial objects—an awe-inspiring moment, especially for astronomy enthusiasts. Some reviews mention that if you choose a night with minimal moonlight, the stars will be even more stunning.

Final Stop at El Portillo Visitor Center

The last scenic stop is at El Portillo Visitor Center, which offers fantastic views and a chance for some final photos. It’s also a good spot to learn more about the park’s geology and natural history, with the added bonus of a relaxed atmosphere before heading back.

Return to Puerto de la Cruz

Expect to return around 9 pm in winter and 10 pm in summer, making it a long but rewarding day. The small group size (limited to 8 participants) ensures you get personalized attention, which guides like Manolo and others have been praised for in reviews.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour covers hotel pickup and drop-off from Puerto de la Cruz, making logistics hassle-free. You’ll enjoy a typical Canarian meal in a cozy Guachinche, along with Cava to toast the sunset and stars. The star gazing itself, a highlight of the trip, is included, but hotel transfers are not—so plan to be staying nearby or arrange your own transport.

Price and Value

While the exact cost isn’t listed here, most reviews suggest that the combination of food, scenic stops, and the star experience offers good value—particularly considering the small group setting and expert guiding. The experience is tailored to those who want a well-rounded day without it feeling rushed or overly commercial.

How the Experience Comes Together

What makes this tour stand out is the attention to detail—from the local cuisine to the carefully chosen viewpoints. Reviews indicate that guides like Manolo go above and beyond, sharing knowledge of the landscape, history, and astronomy. The best part? The stunning starry sky that transforms the night into a living show—something that many travelers find unforgettable.

While weather can sometimes interfere (clouds have been known to obscure the stars), most guests agree that the experience is still worth it. The tour’s flexible cancellation policy (cancel up to 24 hours in advance) offers peace of mind if weather forecasts look uncertain.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a comprehensive, scenic experience of Tenerife’s natural beauty. It’s perfect for food lovers, as the Canarian meal offers authentic flavors, and for those passionate about stargazing—especially if you’re eager to see the night sky away from city lights. The small group setting and knowledgeable guides make it a great choice for adventurers and curious minds alike.

If you prefer a quiet, private experience, or if you’re on a tight schedule, this might not be the best fit. But for those wanting a mix of beautiful landscapes, culture, and starry skies, this tour delivers.

The Sum Up

The Puerto Cruz VIP Teide Sunset & Stars tour offers an engaging blend of natural beauty, local culture, and celestial wonder. It’s a well-rounded experience that appeals to travelers who want to get a genuine taste of Tenerife’s landscapes and traditions while witnessing one of the clearest night skies. The small-group format and knowledgeable guides like Manolo help create a personalized, memorable adventure.

You’ll love the authentic Canarian meal, the spectacular sunset views, and the inspiring stargazing session. The tour’s variety of scenic stops, combined with expert guidance, makes it a worthwhile addition to your Tenerife itinerary. Just remember to bring layers for the evening chill and your passport or ID for the park.

Overall, if you’re looking for a delightful, insightful, and beautiful day out that balances culture, scenery, and night sky magic, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s especially suited for those who want a memorable, intimate experience that combines the best of what Tenerife has to offer.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. Participants are expected to meet at Mamio Verde Adventures La Paz for the start.

What should I bring for the star gazing?
Bring a passport or ID, a jacket for the cooler evening temperatures, and comfortable shoes. Luggage or large bags are not allowed on the tour.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour won’t take place in case of rain or poor weather conditions, as star gazing depends heavily on clear skies.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 7 hours, with start times varying based on availability. Return is scheduled around 9 pm in winter and 10 pm in summer.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it’s suitable for most ages, especially those interested in nature, scenery, and star gazing. Be mindful that some stops involve walking and standing.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Booking is flexible with the “Reserve now & pay later” option.

What makes this tour special compared to other Teide excursions?
This tour combines authentic Canarian food, scenic viewpoints, a spectacular sunset, and the best stargazing experience in the park—all in a small, personalized group setting for a more intimate experience.