Self Driving Sunset Tour with Dinner and Stargazing in Tenerife

Planning an evening in Tenerife that combines scenic beauty, cultural flavor, and awe-inspiring stargazing? This Self-Driving Sunset Tour with Dinner and Stargazing offers an intimate way to explore the island’s natural wonders at your own pace. With a perfect blend of local cuisine, breathtaking views, and guided astronomy, it promises a memorable night away from the crowds.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its flexible, self-paced approach—you drive your own vehicle, giving you control over your experience without the constraints of a large group. Add in the stunning sunset views, a hearty Canarian dinner, and the chance to view the universe through telescopes, and you have a well-rounded, value-for-money adventure.

One potential consideration: the experience heavily depends on weather conditions, especially for stargazing. Cloud cover or poor visibility could dampen the night sky spectacle, but the tour offers a flexible cancellation policy if the weather doesn’t cooperate.

This tour is ideal for travelers who appreciate personalized experiences, scenic drives, and culture. It suits those staying in more remote parts of Tenerife or anyone seeking a relaxed, yet captivating, evening activity.

Key Points

• Flexible self-driving experience allows you to explore Tenerife at your own pace.
• Authentic Canarian dinner provides a taste of local cuisine in a genuine setting.
• Stunning sunset views above the sea of clouds and lava fields create unforgettable photo opportunities.
• Expert-guided stargazing with telescopes and scientific explanations make the night sky accessible to all.
• Included warm coats ensure comfort during the chilly mountain evening.
• Good value for money considering the combination of food, scenic views, and guided astronomy.

An Overview of the Experience

This Tenerife sunset and stargazing tour offers a refreshing alternative to traditional group trips. For about four hours, you’ll have the freedom to drive your own vehicle from a meeting point in Chío, up into the mountains near Pico Viejo, where the true magic begins. The tour is designed for those who want a private, personalized experience without the hassle of organized coach groups.

At its core, this experience combines three main highlights: a Canarian dinner, the spectacle of the sunset, and the stunning night sky. The tour is praised for its knowledgeable guides like Craig and Kieran, who provide engaging commentary on the universe, Tenerife’s geography, and local lore.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Barrio Los Menores (Canarian Restaurant)

The tour kicks off with a 15-minute drive to a traditional Canarian restaurant in Barrio Los Menores. Here, you’ll indulge in a three-course Canarian meal, with options such as local meats, fresh vegetables, and regional desserts. Reviewers consistently mention the rustic, hearty quality of the food—simple but delicious, offering an authentic taste of Tenerife.

Although some found the meal to be average or slightly overcooked, it’s appreciated for its local flavor and the opportunity to relax before heading into the mountains. Drinks are included, often enjoyed alongside lively conversation, with some praising the warm, friendly atmosphere.

Stop 2: Mirador de las Narices del Teide (Star-Gazing and Astronomy)

Next, you’ll drive approximately two hours up to the Mirador de las Narices del Teide at the base of Pico Viejo. This is the star of the show—a carefully chosen spot for optimal stargazing and astronomy lessons. Here, telescopes are set up for guided viewing, and guides like Kieran explain celestial phenomena with a mix of science and mythology.

Reviewers universally raved about the knowledgeable guides, with one noting that they made the night sky “simple and beautiful,” even for those unfamiliar with astronomy. The telescopes reveal incredible details—craters on the moon, planets, and distant stars—and guides explain these sights in an engaging way.

Be aware that cold temperatures are common at this altitude, especially at night, so the provided warm coats are a thoughtful touch. Several reviewers highlight the good visibility of stars, which makes the effort worthwhile. However, a few mentioned that clouds or poor weather could limit stargazing, underscoring the importance of weather conditions for this part of the experience.

Stop 3: Mirador de los Poleos (Sunset and Lava Fields)

The final stop involves a 45-minute drive to the Mirador de los Poleos, where you witness the sunset above the sea of clouds. The view is breathtaking, with lava fields and the rugged landscape of Tenerife, shaped by recent volcanic activity, providing a dramatic backdrop.

Guests often describe this as a romantic, awe-inspiring moment—watching the sky turn fiery hues above the volcanic landscape. Many appreciate the glass of cava or juice that accompanies the sunset, making the moment feel even more special.

Why This Tour Works

This experience is more than just sightseeing; it’s about personal discovery and enjoying Tenerife’s natural beauty without the constraints of large groups or rigid schedules. The flexibility of self-driving means you can linger at vistas or skip parts if you wish, making it genuinely tailored to your pace.

The inclusion of a Canarian meal adds cultural depth, supporting local businesses and giving you a taste of regional cuisine. The guided stargazing with telescopes and explanations is a highlight, especially for those curious about the universe or seeking an unusual night activity.

The value for money is clear—at around $77, you’re getting a combination of scenic drives, a hearty dinner, and expert astronomy, all in a well-organized package. Reviewers frequently mention that this tour offers excellent value, especially considering the personalized nature of the experience.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: Approx. 4 hours, making it a perfect evening activity that doesn’t take up your whole night.
• Price: $77.23 per person, which includes dinner, telescopes, and warm coats.
• Meeting Point: Asador el Teide in Chío, with the end location at Mirador de las Narices del Teide.
• Weather Dependence: The night sky experience is weather-sensitive. Cloud cover may limit stargazing; the tour offers a full refund or alternative date if canceled.
• Group Size: Up to 55 travelers, but the self-driving format creates a more intimate setting.
• Booking: Book around 22 days in advance on average, so plan ahead to secure your spot.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

Many travelers highlight the knowledgeable guides like Craig and Kieran, who aren’t just passionate but also talented at sharing their expertise. One reviewer noted that even in poor weather, the guides knew how to make the sunset worthwhile, and others appreciated the good communication and timeliness of the organization.

The dinner is often described as rustic but hearty, with some reviewers mentioning the local flavors and the chance to try genuine Canarian dishes. Drinks are included, which adds to the relaxed, convivial atmosphere.

The star gazing is frequently praised for its clarity and the guides’ ability to simplify complex celestial concepts, making astronomy accessible and fun. The provided warm coats are a hit, especially in the mountain’s cold night air.

Final Thoughts

This Tenerife sunset and stargazing tour offers a unique blend of scenic beauty, cultural authenticity, and educational richness. Its self-driving format means travelers enjoy a private, flexible experience—perfect for those who prefer exploring at their own pace.

The combination of a hearty Canarian dinner, spectacular sunset views, and guided astronomy makes for a well-rounded, memorable evening. It’s excellent value for money and ideal for couples, families, or groups eager to see Tenerife’s landscapes and stars without the hassle of large tours.

While weather can influence the stargazing portion, the overall experience remains highly rated, with many praising the guides’ expertise and the stunning scenery. If you’re looking for an evening that combines natural wonders with cultural charm, this tour is a strong contender.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the experience is suitable for families, couples, and solo travelers. The main requirement is comfort with driving your own vehicle and being prepared for some mountain coolness.

Do I need to bring my own equipment for stargazing?
No, the telescopes are provided and guided by knowledgeable staff. They also supply warm coats to keep comfortable during the night.

What if the weather isn’t clear for stargazing?
If clouds or poor visibility prevent star viewing, the tour offers a full refund or the option to reschedule. The guides will inform you of the weather forecast beforehand.

How long is the dinner?
The dinner takes about 50 minutes, giving you enough time to enjoy the local cuisine and drinks before heading to the sunset and stargazing spots.

Can I drive myself or do I have to follow a guide bus?
This tour is designed for self-driving, so you will be behind the wheel. It’s perfect if you want privacy and flexibility.

What should I wear?
Bring warm clothing—especially coats or jackets—as mountain temperatures drop significantly at night. The tour provides coats, but layering is advisable.

Is this a good value for the price?
Absolutely. The price includes a full evening of scenic driving, a Canarian meal, expert-guided stargazing, and warm coats—making it a very comprehensive and memorable experience for the cost.

This Self Driving Sunset Tour with Dinner and Stargazing in Tenerife strikes a lovely balance between adventure, culture, and awe-inspiring natural beauty. It’s a great way to see Tenerife’s landscapes, taste local flavors, and enjoy a magical night under the stars—all on your own terms.