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

If you’re looking for a truly memorable way to experience Tenerife’s natural beauty, the VIP Teide Sunset & Stars tour offers a combination of scenic landscapes, authentic Canarian food, and some of the best stargazing in the world. Hosted by Mamio Verde Adventures, this 7-hour journey is designed to bring you from the charming streets of Puerto de la Cruz into the heart of Teide National Park, where sunset views and starry skies become an unforgettable spectacle.

What I love about this experience are the thoughtful stops that balance scenic beauty with cultural richness. You’ll enjoy a typical Canarian meal at a local guachinche, which means authentic flavors in a cozy setting. Then, you’ll witness a breathtaking sunset from Mirador El Retamar, arguably the best viewpoint on the island, with panoramic vistas over the Orotava Valley. The highlight for many is the stargazing session on Mount Teide, where the clear night sky puts on a show that’s hard to beat — especially if the weather cooperates.

A potential consideration is the weather dependency — since the tour is canceled in case of rain or poor conditions, those planning for a particular night should be flexible. Also, keep in mind that lunch and pick-up are included, but hotel transfers are not, so you’ll need to organize your own stay or transport to the starting point. Overall, for those eager to combine scenic views, local cuisine, and spectacular night skies, this tour is a delightful choice.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Authentic Canarian Food: You’ll savor a traditional lunch at a well-regarded guachinche, complete with local wines and flavors.
• Best Sunset in Tenerife: The sunset from Mirador El Retamar at 2,100 meters offers sweeping views and a chance to see the changing colors over the valley.
• World-Class Stargazing: Mount Teide’s high altitude and clear skies offer some of the best stargazing conditions in the world — perfect for spotting constellations.
• Well-Organized Stops: The itinerary includes scenic viewpoints such as Mirador de La Bermeja, Mines of San José, and Roque Cinchado, offering plenty of photo opportunities and local insights.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Several reviews praise guides like Manolo for their friendliness, local knowledge, and engaging commentary, adding depth to the experience.
• Small Group Atmosphere: Limited to 8 participants, it’s a more intimate and personalized experience, allowing for better interaction and flexibility.

Starting in Puerto de la Cruz

Your adventure kicks off at Mamio Verde Adventures La Paz, where you’ll be picked up (or meet up if organizing independently). The small group limit means you’re more likely to get personalized attention, which many reviewers appreciate. The tour usually starts in the morning or early afternoon, so confirm the exact time when booking.

Scenic Journey to the Heart of Teide

The drive itself is a highlight, with several scenic stops along the way. The first is a 15-minute transfer to Guachinche El Cubano, where a delicious Canarian meal awaits. Known for its hearty local dishes and regional wine, this is a genuine taste of Tenerife’s culinary traditions. One reviewer called it “excellent,” noting that the guide’s humor and friendliness made it especially enjoyable.

Exploring Tenerife’s Landscapes

After lunch, the tour continues with visits to diverse scenic points. Mirador de La Bermeja offers views over lush landscapes, perfect for photos. The Mines of San José provide a glimpse into the island’s history, and Roque Cinchado, a striking rock formation, offers another stunning backdrop for photos and reflection. These stops aren’t just sightseeing; they are well-placed to help you appreciate Tenerife’s volcanic landscapes and natural beauty.

Sunset at Mirador El Retamar

The highlight of the day, without question, is the sunset from Mirador El Retamar. Sitting at 2,100 meters, you’ll witness the sky change colors over the Orotava Valley, a view many describe as magical. The atmosphere is peaceful, and the scenery is astonishing — a perfect moment to pause and savor Tenerife’s natural grandeur.

Scenic Drive to El Portillo Visitor Center

Next, a scenic drive takes you to the El Portillo Visitor Center, where you can stretch your legs, take photos, and enjoy the unique landscape. This is also a good spot to appreciate the vastness of the national park before heading to the final part of the tour.

Nightfall and Stargazing

As night falls, you arrive at Mount Teide for the star show. The high altitude and clear skies make for an incredible spectacle. Reviewers like Gary and Sophie describe this part as “the best star gazing” they’ve ever experienced, with some even mentioning spotting constellations in detail. Guides like Manolo add context and help you identify celestial objects, enhancing the awe of the night sky.

Return and Reflection

The tour wraps up with a comfortable drive back to Puerto de la Cruz by around 10 pm (9 pm in winter). Many guests comment on how the day balanced scenic beauty, cultural flavor, and natural wonder — making it a well-rounded outing.

Who is This Tour Best For?

If you love authentic experiences—local cuisine, genuine landscapes, and starry nights—this tour hits the spot. It’s particularly suited for travelers who don’t mind a bit of a drive, appreciate small-group settings, and want to avoid overly commercialized tours. The mix of scenery, food, and stargazing makes it a fantastic choice for those seeking a comprehensive, relaxing, yet awe-inspiring day in Tenerife.

This experience is also ideal for those who enjoy guided insights—many reviews highlight the guides’ friendliness and knowledge as a key part of the enjoyment. Keep in mind that the tour’s success hinges on good weather; cloudy or rainy nights will prevent star gazing, so flexibility is advisable.

Considering that your day includes transportation, a Canarian meal, and a starry night experience, the cost offers pretty good value. The small group size ensures a more intimate experience, with personal attention from guides, which many travelers find worthwhile. However, note that hotel pickup and drop-off aren’t included, so plan your transportation accordingly.

Timing-wise, the tour fits well into most travel plans, leaving enough time for scenic stops and a relaxed pace. If you’re visiting Tenerife for a short stay, this is a condensed way to see the island’s highlights and enjoy its legendary night sky.

The VIP Teide Sunset & Stars tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of Tenerife’s natural beauty, culture, and celestial wonder. Guides like Manolo and others earn glowing reviews for their friendliness and knowledge, making the experience feel personal rather than generic. The combination of a Canarian lunch, panoramic sunset, and stargazing makes this a memorable outing for curious travelers.

While weather can influence the quality of the star viewing, the scenic stops and cultural moments alone are worth the trip. If you’re after a chance to see Tenerife from its highest points, enjoy local food, and end your day under a blanket of stars, this tour fits the bill perfectly.

Is pickup from my hotel included?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You need to arrange your own transportation to the starting point at Mamio Verde Adventures La Paz.

What should I bring for the star gazing?
Bring your passport or ID, a jacket for the cool mountain air, and comfortable shoes. A flashlight might also come in handy, though most guides will provide guidance.

What if the weather is cloudy or rainy?
The tour will be canceled if weather conditions are poor. Cloudy skies mean no star gazing, but you might still enjoy the scenic stops and sunset.

How long is the whole experience?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, with an estimated return around 10 pm (or 9 pm in winter). Confirm the exact starting time when booking.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
Yes, but consider the length and the mountain altitude. The slow pace and scenic stops are family-friendly, but young children should be able to handle the walk and cool evening temperatures.

Can I book this tour last-minute?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later. Just be aware that availability might be limited during peak seasons.

Are there vegetarian or special dietary options?
The included meal is a typical Canarian dish, so check with the provider if you have dietary restrictions. Many local dishes are customizable upon request.

What makes the guides stand out?
Guests frequently mention guides like Manolo for their friendliness, local knowledge, and ability to make everyone feel comfortable and engaged.

How crowded does it get at the viewpoints?
Sunset views can be popular, especially in good weather, but the small group size and multiple scenic stops help avoid large crowds.

Is there an age limit?
There’s no strict age limit, but consider the physical demands of walking at high altitude and the cool mountain evenings.

In essence, this VIP Teide Sunset & Stars tour offers a thoughtfully curated slice of Tenerife’s natural splendor, cultural flavor, and celestial spectacle. It’s perfect for travelers who want an authentic, relaxed, and memorable experience, packed with stunning views and genuine local hospitality.