Partial Solar Eclipse Over Lanzarote on 12 August 2026: Everything You Need to Know
Visitors and residents in Lanzarote are in for a spectacular astronomical event this August. While mainland Spain will experience a rare total solar eclipse in some regions, the eclipse will appear as a deep partial solar eclipse across Lanzarote, with around three-quarters of the Sun covered by the Moon at its peak.
For anyone holidaying on the island, this is a rare opportunity to witness one of nature’s most impressive sights against Lanzarote’s famously clear skies.
Will the Eclipse Be Total in Lanzarote?
No.
Although parts of northern Spain will experience complete darkness during the total eclipse, Lanzarote will see a partial eclipse, with approximately 72–74% of the Sun obscured, depending on where you are on the island. Northern areas will experience slightly greater coverage than the south.
Even as a partial eclipse, it will still be a dramatic sight, especially as the Sun sits low in the western sky during the evening.
Eclipse Times in Lanzarote
Current predictions show the eclipse will occur approximately:
- Starts: 6:56 pm (WEST)
- Maximum eclipse: around 7:52 pm
- Ends: approximately 8:37 pm
As sunset approaches shortly afterwards, the combination of the eclipse and Lanzarote’s evening light should make for an unforgettable experience.
Best Places to Watch in Lanzarote
Because the Sun will be low in the west, choose somewhere with an uninterrupted western horizon.
Some excellent viewing locations include:
- Famara Beach
- El Golfo
- Playa Blanca seafront
- Los Hervideros
- Puerto del Carmen coastline
- Mirador del Río (weather permitting)
- Any west-facing beach or cliff-top viewpoint
Wherever you choose, arrive early as popular viewpoints may become busy.
Protect Your Eyes
One of the most important things to remember is never look directly at the Sun without proper protection.
Only use ISO 12312-2 certified eclipse glasses, specifically designed for solar viewing. Ordinary sunglasses—even very dark ones—are not safe.
Do not look through:
- Cameras
- Binoculars
- Telescopes
- Mobile phone lenses
unless they are fitted with certified solar filters. Looking at the Sun through magnifying optics without protection can cause permanent eye damage.
Why This Eclipse Is So Special
The 12 August 2026 eclipse is part of an exceptional series of eclipses visible from Spain between 2026 and 2028.
For mainland Spain, it will be the first total solar eclipse visible from the country in more than a century, attracting thousands of astronomy enthusiasts from around the world. Although Lanzarote lies outside the path of totality, the island will still enjoy one of the deepest partial eclipses visible in the Canary Islands.
Will the Weather Be Good?
August is one of the driest months in Lanzarote, meaning there is usually an excellent chance of clear skies. While no forecast can be guaranteed this far ahead, the island is widely regarded as one of the best places in Europe for observing celestial events thanks to its frequent sunshine and relatively low cloud cover.
Final Thoughts
If you’re visiting Lanzarote this August, make sure you don’t miss this rare event. Pack a pair of certified eclipse glasses, find a west-facing viewpoint, and enjoy an evening that won’t be repeated for many years.
Whether you’re a keen astronomer or simply looking for a memorable holiday experience, the 12 August 2026 partial solar eclipse in Lanzarote promises to be one of the highlights of the summer.
