Archive of the viewing guide for the total solar eclipse of 12 August 2026
This page describes the total solar eclipse of 12 August 2026, which has already happened. We keep it online, at its original address, because the durations and viewing notes are still a useful record of what that eclipse looked like from each place.
For the next one, see the locations for the eclipse of 2 August 2027 and the 2027 map.
The total solar eclipse of August 12, 2026 was visible across northern and central Spain. The path of totality — where the sun is completely blocked — stretches from Galicia in the northwest, across Asturias, León, Burgos, Soria, Zaragoza, and out to the Balearic Islands. The eclipse happened in the early evening, around 20:27 to 20:35 local time, with the sun low on the horizon.
Not all the locations below were within the path of totality. We included some destinations just outside the path because they are popular with visitors and saw a deep partial eclipse. Each location is clearly marked.
The centerline crosses the island. Best weather odds in Spain (~75% clear). The sun will be very low (~2.5°), so coastal or elevated viewpoints are essential.
Explore Mallorca → Total Eclipse — ~1m 10s Balearic IslandsWithin the path of totality. Less crowded than Mallorca, with Monte Toro and coastal viewpoints. UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with pristine beaches.
Explore Menorca →Often recommended as the best overall location: good totality duration, the highest clear-sky probability on mainland Spain, and excellent transport connections.
Explore Zaragoza → Total Eclipse — 1m 05s CantabriaDramatic scenery from Picos de Europa to the coast. Cloud risk is higher than inland, but mountain viewpoints can rise above low clouds.
Explore Cantabria → Edge of Path — 57s Castilla y LeónJust barely inside the southern edge of the path. Brief totality, but the Roman aqueduct and Alcázar make it one of the most photogenic viewing spots in Spain.
Explore Segovia →These popular destinations are outside the path of totality but will see a dramatic deep partial eclipse. They make excellent bases for a broader Spain trip, with easy access to totality locations.
Just south of the path. Spain's capital offers the best transport to totality locations: Segovia (30min), Guadalajara (35min). An excellent base city for any eclipse trip.
Explore Madrid → Partial Eclipse — 99.5% Castilla y LeónBeautiful university city just south of the path. Drive north to Zamora or León for totality. The golden sandstone architecture is stunning at sunset.
Explore Salamanca → NE Corner Only — Guadalajara 1m 07s Castilla-La ManchaOnly the northeast (Guadalajara, northern Cuenca) sees totality. The famous windmills of Consuegra and Toledo are outside the path. Clear skies and Don Quixote heritage.
Explore La Mancha → Partial Eclipse — ~98% ExtremaduraWell outside the path, but Mérida's Roman ruins and Cáceres' medieval quarter make it worth visiting. Combine with a trip north for eclipse day.
Explore Extremadura →When selecting your viewing spot, consider these key factors: