UN Tourism and Fundación Starlight present the international guide for the development of astrotourism at FITUR 2026

UN Tourism and Fundación Starlight officially presented A Guide for the Development of Astrotourism during FITUR 2026, a landmark international reference document that provides practical guidance for the design, development, and management of astrotourism products in destinations worldwide.

The launch took place on January 23 at the FITUR TechY – Sustainability space, located in Pavilion 12 at IFEMA, in a session that brought together institutional representatives, tourism destinations, and specialized organizations linked to sustainable development, tourism innovation, and the protection of the night sky.

A global roadmap for astrotourism

Developed jointly by UN Tourism and its Affiliate Member Fundación Starlight, the guide aims to support destinations in the creation of well-structured, responsible astrotourism experiences aligned with the principles of sustainability, conservation of natural and cultural heritage, and economic diversification of territories.

The publication addresses key aspects such as strategic planning for astrotourism, night sky quality management, community engagement, interpretation of astronomical heritage, and the development of innovative tourism products linked to astronomy, archaeoastronomy, paleontology, and outdoor experiences.

Roundtable with international destinations and experts

The presentation included a roundtable discussion highlighting the role of UN Tourism Affiliate Members and technical partners in promoting astrotourism at an international scale. The debate was moderated by Antonia Varela, Director of Fundación Starlight, and featured representatives from destinations already integrating star tourism into their development strategies:

Dimple Melwani, CEO of Turismo de Tenerife

Raúl Paz Noriega, Deputy Secretary for Sustainable Tourism Development, Ministry of Tourism of Yucatán

Raquel Rebollo Morera, Minister of Tourism of La Palma (SODEPAL)

Apolónia Rodrigues, President of the Dark Sky® Association and Coordinator of Cumeada, Best Tourism Village 2021

During the session, participants shared practical experiences, governance models, and examples of how the night sky can become a distinctive tourism resource—one that generates value and aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals.

The sky as a driver of sustainable development

According to Antonia Varela, “this guide represents a decisive step toward consolidating astrotourism as a real tool for sustainable development. It is not only about stargazing, but about protecting the night sky, generating knowledge, strengthening territorial identity, and creating economic opportunities for local communities.”

The Director of Fundación Starlight also emphasized that the document “offers destinations a clear and adaptable methodology, based on accumulated experience in numerous certified territories and on the international collaboration promoted by UN Tourism.”

With this publication, UN Tourism and Fundación Starlight reaffirm their commitment to an innovative and responsible tourism model connected to science, culture, and nature, positioning astrotourism as one of the most promising strategic lines for destinations in the 21st century.

UN Tourism publication link:
https://www.e-unwto.org/doi/10.18111/9789284427154

The full video of the FITUR presentation of A Guide for the Development of Astrotourism is now available.