The Tenerife Island Council Collaborates with Starlight and the UN to Encourage Astrotourism on the Island

Tenerife Tourism has expressed its endorsement for the manual on developing astrotourism offerings produced by the Starlight Foundation in collaboration with UN Tourism. This guide will serve as a benchmark for destinations worldwide that are keen on venturing into this form of tourism which integrates elements such as nature, culture, and cuisine with the celestial sphere.
The Vice President and Tourism Councillor of the Island Council, Lope Afonso, emphasises that astrotourism is “an emerging product that complements the array of activities available on the island, thereby making Tenerife a distinctive and sustainable global destination.
Moreover, the island boasts optimal conditions for stargazing, owing to its climatic conditions and geographical positioning.”
Afonso further mentions that “this initiative not only enhances the island’s tourist portfolio but also fosters education and consciousness regarding the significance of preserving our nocturnal skies. We are expanding our tourist offerings, advocating sustainable and eco-friendly tourism.”
According to the Tourism CEO, Dimple Melwani, “being part of the Starlight network of tourist spots alongside the Teide National Park, and having the Cumbres de Tenerife designated as a Starlight Reserve, signifies an emblem of quality for the island and a dedication to safeguarding the night sky. Through Tourism, our involvement in the global guide by the Starlight Foundation and UN Tourism underscores our dedication to broadening the tourism spectrum by providing genuine and exceptional experiences, particularly centred on responsible and sustainable tourism.”
The head of the Starlight Foundation, Antonia Varela, clarifies that “this support holds significance for us as the Foundation originated in the Canary Islands, making it an initiative born here but intended for the entire world. We are spreading a novel model of responsible, sustainable, and inventive tourism, generating not only tourism but also employment opportunities.”
The manual will encourage the development of offerings and experiences tailored to each region and visitor interests, pioneering new creations that blend natural, cultural, historical, ethnographic, culinary, and heritage components, synthesising them with the heavens.