Solar Eclipse 2026: guide and best places to see it by hire car

On 12 August 2026, Spain will experience an event that won’t be repeated for decades: the first total solar eclipse over the mainland in more than a century. Although it will also be visible in other parts of the world, such as Iceland or Greenland, Spain will be the place to see it with the best guarantees. 

At Wiber we want you to be the protagonist of this "moment of brilliant darkness".

As the eclipse will take place at sunset (with the sun very low, between 2° and 10° above the horizon), mobility is your best ally. Having a car gives you the freedom to search for the "perfect horizon".

A building, a mountain or even coastal haze can ruin the moment. So, if you’re looking for car hire to see the eclipse in Spain—or specifically to hire a car in Valencia, Mallorca or Ibiza to enjoy the 2026 solar eclipse (privileged destinations)—this guide is for you.

At Wiber, we share everything you need to know to experience the eclipse with freedom, technology and zero friction.

🕒 Key times for the 2026 total solar eclipse in Spain (12 August 2026)

It will begin at 19:30, but it will only become total within a 300 km-wide band. 

Where to see the 2026 solar eclipse in Spain? 

📍 Path and timetable of the 12 August 2026 solar eclipse in Spain

Spain’s National Geographic Institute has provided an interactive eclipse viewer:
https://visualizadores.ign.es/eclipses/2026

You’ll have very little margin, so if the horizon isn’t clear, there won’t be a second chance. According to the National Geographic Institute:

• The eclipse will be total across much of the eastern strip and the Balearic Islands
• In other areas such as Málaga, Alicante or Seville it will be partial (98–99%)
• It will take place at sunset
• Totality in the Balearics will last around 1 minute and 30 seconds
• For a clear view, it’s highly recommended to choose a spot with a very open western horizon (where the sun will set). 

Here are the best hotspots for each of our destinations:

1. Palma de Mallorca: the Mediterranean epicentre for seeing the solar eclipse

Mallorca is, without a doubt, the most privileged location. Totality will last approximately 1 minute and 36 seconds.

• Sa Foradada (Deià): The most iconic and Instagrammable spot. You’ll see the sun framed through the famous “hole” over the sea.
• Torre del Verger (Banyalbufar): A historic watchtower with clear views to the west. Ideal for photographers.
• Bellver Castle: If you’d rather stay in Palma, its height helps you clear the city’s buildings.
• Puig de Randa: The “balcony of Mallorca”. From here, you’ll see the moon’s shadow sweep across the whole island.

2. Valencia and Castellón: the sun over the Albufera or 

In Valencia, the eclipse will be total, but the sun will be very low and it sets behind the mountains. You’ll need to seek altitude or an unobstructed horizon.

• Albufera Natural Park (Gola de Puchol): Head for the eastern side of the lagoon to watch the eclipsed sun set over the water. Magical!
• Pico del Remedio (Chelva): About an hour from our Valencia office. You’ll be above the coastal haze.
• Sierra de Irta (Alcossebre) and Peñíscola: Close to Valencia, one of the wildest coastal areas with excellent visibility.

3. Ibiza: magic facing Es Vedrà

Ibiza will be plunged into total darkness just before its famous sunset.

• Cala d'Hort: Seeing the solar corona alongside the silhouette of Es Vedrà will be the ultimate experience.
• Cala Comte: Famous for its sunsets, with 100% visibility of totality.

4. Alicante, Málaga and Seville: the twilight show

Although technically outside the band of totality (98–99% darkness), the light will turn silvery and strange.

• Alicante - Santa Bárbara Castle: Head to the highest point to stop the city blocking the low sun.
• Málaga - Gibralfaro Viewpoint: The best view of the bay under the eclipse’s effect.
• Seville - Aljarafe: As it’s an elevated area to the west of the city, you’ll have a cleaner horizon.

Why choose Wiber for the "Eclipse of the Century"?

The biggest risk that day isn’t the clouds—it’s the queues. Massive traffic is expected towards the hotspots. If you lose an hour at a traditional car-hire desk, you could miss the eclipse. 

1. Wikey Smart Car: the car opens with your phone. You arrive at the airport car park, locate your car and head straight to the viewpoint. No desk, no waiting. Smarter.
2. Wikey Smart Box: keys in 2 minutes. If you prefer a physical key, our automated machines deliver it in seconds. Easier.
3. All Inclusive rate: zero stress. Fully comprehensive cover with no excess. So your only job is to look up (with certified eclipse glasses!). Better.

💡 Expert tip: Book your car months in advance. For August 2026, demand in Mallorca and Valencia is expected to be the highest on record. Ready for the darkness?