Solar Eclipse of 12 August 2026: A Spectacle We Will Also Be Able to Enjoy from Gran Canaria
Published in Living in Gran Canaria, News
Not every day do we have the opportunity to look up at the sky and witness a truly special astronomical phenomenon. Next 12 August 2026 will be one of those dates worth marking in the calendar.
On that day, a total solar eclipse will take place, one of the most significant astronomical events of recent years. Although totality will only be visible from certain parts of mainland Spain, Gran Canaria will also experience a striking partial solar eclipse.
You can read the NASA article here.
If the skies are clear, it will be a wonderful excuse to end the day by admiring a spectacle that nature offers only on very rare occasions.
What Will We See from Gran Canaria?
While the Sun will disappear completely for a few minutes in parts of northern Spain, in Gran Canaria we will enjoy a partial solar eclipse of considerable magnitude.
The phenomenon will begin at 6:42 pm. Maximum coverage will occur at 7:36 pm, when the Moon will cover approximately 67% of the Sun’s disc. Finally, the eclipse will end at 8:24 pm, just as the Sun is very close to the horizon.
To enjoy the best views, it is advisable to find an elevated location with an unobstructed western horizon. Some of the island’s best viewpoints for observing the eclipse include:
If the sky is clear, the gradual reduction in daylight will give the landscape a very different appearance from usual, creating an experience that is difficult to forget.
Is It Safe to Observe a Solar Eclipse?
Yes, provided it is done correctly.
It is important to remember that you should never look directly at the Sun without proper eye protection, even if most of it appears to be covered.
To enjoy the eclipse safely:
- Use only certified eclipse glasses (ISO 12312-2).
- Do not use sunglasses, X-ray films, smoked glass, or other homemade methods.
- Do not observe the Sun through binoculars, telescopes, or cameras without dedicated solar filters.
By following these simple precautions, you will be able to enjoy the eclipse safely and with complete peace of mind.
Has It Been a Long Time Since We Last Saw an Eclipse from the Canary Islands?
Not exactly.
In recent years, we have also been able to observe several partial solar eclipses from the archipelago:
However, the eclipse on 12 August 2026 will be particularly remarkable because it will cover a much larger portion of the Sun and will form part of a series of historic eclipses that will continue in 2027 and 2028.
A Different Way to Enjoy Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria always offers reasons to look up at the sky, out to the sea, or towards the mountains. The eclipse on 12 August will provide yet another opportunity to experience the island from a different perspective and witness an event that does not occur very often.
At Cardenas Real Estate, we enjoy sharing experiences like this because they are part of the lifestyle of southern Gran Canaria. If you are considering buying a home or a second residence on the island, we will be delighted to help you find the perfect place to enjoy moments like this.
