Polestar SELF-DRIVE Sunset Stars Tour in Teide National Park

This Polestar Self-Drive Sunset Stars Tour in Tenerife offers a unique take on star-gazing and sunset viewing. Unlike traditional bus excursions, this experience lets you drive your own vehicle, giving a sense of freedom and flexibility as you explore the breathtaking landscapes of Teide National Park. It’s a carefully curated journey that combines the magic of a sunset with the wonder of observing the stars, all guided by friendly experts who know exactly where to point your telescope.

What we love most is the blend of independence and expert guidance. You can enjoy the sunset at your own pace, sip on sparkling wine, and then settle in for a beautifully orchestrated stargazing session complete with telescopes, constellation insights, and stunning views of the Milky Way. One thing to keep in mind: this is an experience that emphasizes the beauty of nature under dark skies, but the self-drive aspect might not suit everyone, especially if you prefer a more structured tour with transportation included. This tour appeals most to those who enjoy a more personal, flexible adventure and are eager to learn about Tenerife’s night sky in a relaxed setting.

Key Points

• Flexible Self-Drive Format: Enjoy the freedom to explore the scenic route at your own pace.
• Expert Guidance: Guides like Phil, Steve, and Pete are praised for their friendliness and deep knowledge of astronomy.
• Stunning Views & Photography: The sunset spot offers incredible photo opportunities, with advice on capturing the perfect shot.
• Quality Equipment & Wine: Telescopes are high-quality, and the included sparkling wine adds a celebratory touch.
• Rich in Local History: Stops like Mirador de los Poleos connect you with Tenerife’s volcanic past.
• Limited Food Options: The tour doesn’t include dinner, so plan accordingly if you’re hungry beforehand.

Exploring the Itinerary: From Sunset to Starry Skies

The journey begins at Mirador de los Poleos, a west-facing lookout perched above the lava fields of Boca Chanjero. This spot is packed with historical significance, as it’s on the lava flow of Mount Chinyero—the last recorded eruption in 1909. Here, you’ll get your first glimpse of the stunning sunset over the islands of La Gomera and La Palma. Expect a spectacular display as the sun dips below the horizon, igniting the sky in shades of red and orange. Many travelers have described this as a “memorable” sunset, perfect for photography and soaking in the landscape.

You’ll enjoy a glass of cava (Spanish sparkling wine) to toast the view, which enhances the sense of occasion. Reviewers like Aliya mention, “Don’t forget to dress up warm! It’s freezing up there,” reminding us that even Tenerife’s warm reputation doesn’t extend to high altitudes at sunset. The cool air and crispness make layered clothing a smart choice.

Next, the tour continues with a scenic drive past Mount Chinyero and into Teide National Park. Our guides, such as Phil and Steve, are praised for their friendly banter and expert knowledge about the area’s volcanic history. The drive itself is part of the experience, offering panoramic vistas and the chance to learn about Tenerife’s geological evolution.

The final stop is at an elevated lookout point, where the real star of the show begins. The guides set up telescopes, allowing you to observe planets, the Moon, and deep-sky objects like the Milky Way. Reviewers like Carmen describe this as “the true gem of the trip,” noting how clear the Milky Way appears—something that’s rarely possible without superb dark skies.

What to Expect During the Star-Gazing

Once the sun has set, the sky opens up in all its glory. The guides provide insightful commentary on constellations, planets, and celestial phenomena. For amateur astronomers and casual stargazers alike, this is a chance to see the Milky Way with impressive clarity—reviewers like Sylwia mention having “never seen the Milky Way so clearly.”

The telescopes are a highlight, with many reviewers noting their quality and the guides’ ability to explain what you’re seeing. It’s not just about looking through a lens; it’s about understanding what’s in front of you and appreciating the universe’s vastness.

The guides often share photography tips, encouraging guests to capture the moment, which adds a fun, interactive element. You’ll also get a chance to ask questions about stars, planets, and other celestial bodies, making it a very engaging experience.

The Self-Drive Element: Freedom or Limitation?

One of the unique features of this tour is the self-drive format, which has received mixed reviews. Some travelers love the independence—reviewer TJ_M states, “The self-drive aspect leaves you on the outside looking in,” feeling that it wasn’t worth the extra €40 per person. They felt they could have enjoyed most aspects just by following the guide’s vehicle.

However, others appreciate the flexibility, especially if they are confident drivers and want to explore at their own pace. The guides emphasize that their goal is to provide more than just star-watching; they aim to offer a memorable experience with expert advice, telescopes, and the best viewpoints. For those who prefer a fully guided bus tour, this might not be the best fit, but for confident drivers wanting a more personal adventure, it’s ideal.

Value for Money and Overall Experience

Pricing is set at $41.50 per person, which many reviewers agree offers good value given the quality of the guides, equipment, and the included sparkling wine. It’s a small price for an experience that combines beautiful scenery, expert astronomy insights, and memorable moments.

The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, making it a manageable evening activity. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy a relaxed pace, good conversation, and a chance to learn from professionals who are passionate about the night sky.

Notably, the tour doesn’t include dinner, so plan to eat beforehand or bring snacks if you’re hungry. The experience’s focus is on the sunset and star-gazing, not on culinary offerings.

The Guide’s Role: Knowledge, Humor, and Accessibility

From reviews, guides like Phil, Steve, and Pete are praised for their approachable, humorous, and highly knowledgeable manner. Carmen appreciates the “incredible knowledge” and instructive explanations, which help make the star-gazing more meaningful. Their friendly banter and willingness to share insights seem to elevate the experience beyond just looking at stars.

Some reviewers point out the importance of dressing warmly—“Take warm clothing,” is a common tip from those who’ve been there. The temperature drops quickly after sunset, so layers are essential.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who:

• Are confident with driving and prefer a flexible, self-guided approach.
• Want to enjoy a sunset and star-gazing combo without the rush.
• Appreciate expert commentary on astronomy and Tenerife’s volcanic history.
• Love photography and want tips to capture the perfect shot.
• Enjoy a relaxed, intimate atmosphere with small groups (maximum 45 travelers).

It might be less suitable for those who:

• Prefer an all-inclusive, guided transportation tour.
• Are not comfortable driving in unfamiliar areas or at night.
• Want a dinner or food-inclusive experience.
• Are seeking a very structured schedule or guided transportation.

The Sum Up: A Night Sky Experience with a Personal Touch

The Polestar SELF-DRIVE Sunset Stars Tour in Tenerife offers a compelling blend of adventure, education, and natural beauty. Its flexible format and high-quality guides make it stand out for those who want more control over their experience while still benefiting from expert insights. The stunning sunsets, combined with clear views of the Milky Way, make for a memorable night out that will appeal especially to those who love photography, astronomy, or simply soaking in breathtaking vistas.

The inclusion of sparkling cava and the chance to use telescopes adds a celebratory feel, making it more than just a sightseeing trip. Although the self-drive element isn’t for everyone, it’s a real plus for confident explorers who desire a sense of independence alongside professional guidance. This tour is best suited for curious, independent travelers who value authenticity and a personal touch over a big-group bus experience.

In short, if you’re eager to see Tenerife’s skies from a dark-sky location, appreciate a relaxed pace, and enjoy learning from friendly experts, this experience is a fantastic choice. It’s a memorable way to connect with nature, history, and the universe—all under one spectacular sunset.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but given the cool temperatures at night and the focus on stargazing, it’s best for older kids or teenagers who can handle the cold and stay patient during the observations.

Do I need to bring my own telescope?
No, the tour provides high-quality telescopes for all guests, along with guidance on how to use them.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layers, as it can get quite cold after sunset. Good shoes and warm clothing are recommended, especially if you plan to stay for a while.

Can I cancel the tour if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. If the weather is unsuitable for star-gazing, the tour might be rescheduled or fully refunded.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, from sunset viewing to star-gazing.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Mirador de los Poleos and ends at Mirador de Samara, both in Tenerife, with the star-gazing point decided on site based on weather conditions.

Is alcohol included?
Yes, a glass of cava (Spanish sparkling wine) or a non-alcoholic drink is included to toast the sunset.

What makes this tour different from other star-gazing experiences?
The self-drive format offers independence, combined with expert guidance, high-quality telescopes, and the chance to explore Tenerife’s volcanic landscape at your own pace—perfect for adventurous travelers who want a personalized experience.