Stargazing in Gran Canaria

Discover the best spots for night sky photography on this UNESCO Starlight Tourist Destination

UNESCO Starlight Destination Astrophotography Guide Exact Locations

Table of Contents

1. Top Stargazing Locations 2. Photography Equipment & Settings 3. Professional Tours & Resources
4. Practical Visitor Information 5. Budget & Booking Guide 6. Plan Your Adventure

Gran Canaria stands as one of Europe's premier stargazing destinations, officially recognized as a UNESCO Starlight Tourist Destination. Thanks to Spain's pioneering "Sky Law" that protects dark skies from light pollution, this remarkable island offers some of the clearest night skies in the world.

Whether you're a seasoned astrophotographer or someone taking their first steps into night sky photography, Gran Canaria provides the perfect canvas for capturing the cosmos. From easily accessible mountain peaks to remote reservoirs, this complete guide reveals the island's best-kept stargazing secrets.

What you'll discover: Exact GPS coordinates for the best spots, professional photography settings, equipment recommendations, guided tour options, and insider tips for capturing stunning night sky images.

Additional Resources

Top Stargazing Locations

Pico de las Nieves

#1 Recommended
27°57'43''N, 15°34'18''W
1,949 meters elevation
Easy car access via GC-130

The crown jewel of Gran Canaria stargazing...

Perfect for:

  • • Beginners and families
  • • Accessible stargazing with parking
  • • Food van and restroom facilities

Roque Nublo

Iconic Views
3.1km hiking trail
1,813 meters elevation
151m elevation gain

The iconic volcanic monolith provides dramatic silhouettes...

Perfect for:

  • • Experienced photographers
  • • Iconic landscape compositions
  • • Adventure seekers

Southwest Reservoirs

Hidden Gems
4 reservoir locations
Flat parking areas
Camping permitted

Discover Presa de Las Niñas, Presa del Mulato, Presa de Soria, and Presa de Chira. These locations offer water reflections for unique compositions.

Perfect for:

  • • Multi-night photography sessions
  • • Water reflection compositions
  • • Advanced photographers

Tasartico Observatory

Professional
Guguy Observatory
Via GC-204 (remote)
Minimal light pollution

Home to the Guguy Interpretation Centre...

Perfect for:

  • • Serious astrophotographers
  • • Deep sky photography
  • • Observatory visits

Photography Equipment & Camera Settings

Essential Equipment

Camera & Lenses

  • • DSLR or mirrorless with manual controls
  • • Wide-angle lens: 14-24mm (full frame)
  • • Maximum aperture: f/2.8 or faster
  • • High ISO performance essential

Support & Accessories

  • • Sturdy carbon fiber tripod
  • • Remote shutter release
  • • Extra batteries (cold drains power)
  • • Red light headlamp

Weather Protection

  • • Windproof jacket (essential)
  • • Warm layers (mountains reach 0°C)
  • • Lens cleaning kit
  • • Weather protection for gear

Camera Settings Guide

Milky Way Photography

f/2.8
Aperture
ISO 3200
Sensitivity
15-25s
Exposure

Star Trails

f/5.6
Aperture
ISO 800
Sensitivity
4-5min
Multiple

Pro Tips for Gran Canaria

  • • Use 'Donkey's Belly' clouds (April-August) to block light pollution
  • • Focus manually on bright stars
  • • Shoot in RAW format for maximum editing flexibility
  • • Check weather: Trade winds provide stable conditions

Photography Resources

Professional Tours & Local Resources

AstroGC

Professional Workshops

€50-80 5 hours
  • " data-es=" Telescopios personalizados de 16"" data-de=" 16-Zoll-Spezialteleskope" data-fr=" Télescopes personnalisés de 16"" data-it=" Telescopi personalizzati da 16"">16" custom telescopes
  • Hotel pickup included
  • Photography guidance
  • Equipment provided
Book AstroGC Tour

AstroEduca

30 Years Experience

€60-90 4-6 hours
  • Multiple observatories
  • Educational focus
  • Family-friendly
  • Laser constellation guides
Book AstroEduca Tour

Stars By Night (Fuerteventura)

Gastronomy + Stars

€70-100 6 hours
  • Traditional Canarian meal
  • Stargazing experience
  • Cultural storytelling
  • Professional telescopes
Book Stars By Night Tour

Practical Visitor Information

Safety & Preparation

Important Safety Tips

  • • Mountains can reach 0°C even in summer
  • • Always inform someone of your plans
  • • Carry emergency supplies and water
  • • Check weather conditions before departure

What to Wear

  • • Layered clothing system
  • • Windproof outer jacket
  • • Sturdy, warm footwear
  • • Hat and gloves for winter visits

Transportation & Access

Car Rental (Recommended)

Weekly Rate €70-100

Essential for accessing remote stargazing locations

Parking Information

  • Free parking at most locations
  • Paved roads to major spots
  • Some gravel sections at remote areas

Ready to Capture the Cosmos?

Gran Canaria's dark skies are waiting for you. Book your stargazing adventure and discover why this UNESCO Starlight destination is perfect for astrophotography.