Solar Eclipse of August 12, 2026 in the Algarve: Times and Best Places to See

On August 12, 2026, the Algarve will have the opportunity to witness one of the most impressive astronomical phenomena in recent years: a very deep partial solar eclipse.

Although the eclipse will be total in a band that crosses Greenland, Iceland, northern Spain and a small area of northeastern Portugal, in the Algarve the Sun will not be completely hidden. Still, a large part of the solar disk will be covered by the Moon, making this an exceptional event.

What time will the solar eclipse be in the Algarve?

The phenomenon occurs during the afternoon and early evening of Wednesday, August 12. In Faro, the scheduled times are:

• Start: approximately 18:42
• Maximum of the eclipse: approximately 19:38
• End: approximately 20:27

The eclipse will last approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes. At maximum moment, the predicted magnitude for Faro is around 0.935.

Will the eclipse be total in the Algarve?

No. This is an important distinction. The eclipse of August 12, 2026 is a global total solar eclipse, but will be observed as a partial eclipse in the Algarve.

The band of totality crosses northern Spain and only a small area of northeastern Portugal. In the Algarve, the Moon will cover much of the Sun, but not completely.

What will it be possible to see in the Algarve?

As the Moon advances over the solar disk, the Sun will be progressively reduced to a small luminous zone. The ambient light may become less intense and take on a different tone than usual.

There is also one detail that makes the Algarve particularly interesting: the eclipse takes place close to sunset. An open horizon to the west may allow you to observe and photograph an unusual scene, with the Sun deeply eclipsed very low over the horizon.

Best places in the Algarve to see the eclipse

The best location will be one with a clear western horizon, little obstruction and good visibility. Among the most interesting places are:

1. Cabo de São Vicente, Sagres — probably one of the most impressive locations due to the completely open horizon over the Atlantic.
2. Ponta da Piedade, Lagos — high cliffs and wide views over the ocean.
3. Praia da Rocha, Portimão — extensive coastline and several high points.
4. Costa Vicentina Beaches — excellent west-facing horizons and less light pollution.
5. Falésia Beach — a good option for those between Vilamoura and Albufeira.
6. Vilamoura and Quarteira — affordable options for those in the Central Algarve.

Anyone who wants to photograph the phenomenon should arrive early. It is expected that some of the best-known viewpoints and coastal areas will be in high demand.

Is it safe to look directly at the eclipse?

No. In the Algarve there will not be totality, so it will never be safe to look directly at the Sun without adequate protection.

Eclipse glasses that comply with the international standard ISO 12312-2 must be used. Ordinary sunglasses, even very dark ones, do not offer enough protection.

You should also not observe the Sun through cameras, binoculars or telescopes without specific solar filters installed on the front of the equipment.

Can time impede observation?

Yes. Clouds or fog near the horizon can partially or completely hide the phenomenon. As the eclipse occurs with the Sun relatively low, the weather forecast for the afternoon of August 12th will be decisive.

Check the weather on the day and choose a location with a clear western horizon. The Algarve365 application allows you to monitor the weather and explore places, beaches and points of interest in the region.

Is it worth seeing the eclipse in the Algarve?

Yes. Although there will be no total eclipse in the Algarve, it will be an extremely expressive partial eclipse and will take place at a particularly photogenic time of the day.

Save the date: August 12, 2026, from 6:40 pm. Choose a location with an open view to the west, bring certified sun protection and arrive early.