Where to go Stargazing

Introduction

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Stargazing is one of the most magical ways to connect with the natural world while on holiday, offering a chance to escape the rush of daily life and marvel at the vastness of the universe. Whether you're lying on a beach in the tropics or perched on a mountaintop in the wilderness, the act of looking up at a glittering night sky is both humbling and awe-inspiring. For many, it becomes a highlight of their travels, blending a sense of adventure with a peaceful moment of reflection. With the right conditions, stargazing transforms from a simple pastime into a breathtaking experience that stays with you long after your journey ends.

Finding the perfect location for stargazing can turn an ordinary night into an extraordinary experience. While the basics—clear, moonless skies and a spot far from urban light pollution—are essential, the most breathtaking stargazing spots meet a few additional criteria.

Warm-weather locations with low humidity often provide excellent conditions, as dry air creates crisp, unobstructed views of the cosmos. High-altitude spots are especially ideal, where thinner atmospheres minimise interference and allow the brilliance of the night sky to shine through. Pair these settings with a powerful telescope, and you have the recipe for an unforgettable evening under the stars.

Our Latin America and Africa travel experts Amanda and Ruth have uncovered some of the world’s most incredible stargazing locations. From the arid deserts of Latin America to the serene landscapes of Africa and the Indian Ocean, they share destinations where the night sky becomes a highlight of your holiday.

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Atacama Desert, Chile

The Atacama Desert, renowned as the driest nonpolar region on earth, offers an arid yet breathtaking landscape, making it one of the premier destinations for stargazing. Clear skies provide an unparalleled window to the universe, showcasing an extraordinary display of celestial lights and formations.

A top choice for stargazing accommodation is Nayara Alto Atacama, a luxury lodge situated approximately 3km from the town of San Pedro de Atacama. Free from artificial light pollution, the lodge offers stunning views of the glittering stars and constellations visible to the naked eye. The lodge's stargazing viewpoint, Ckepi (meaning 'eye' in the Kunza language), features a powerful professional telescope, housed in an open-air observatory atop a small hill. Guests can enjoy this experience from comfortable swivel chairs with cosy blankets.

An expert guide accompanies guests, illuminating the wonders of the night sky by highlighting moon craters, constellations, and nebulae unique to the Southern Hemisphere.

For those staying at other hotels, stargazing excursions can be arranged at alternative locations. These tours can focus on scientific exploration or combine it with Andean cosmology, offering insights into ancient myths and legends. Our Chile Adventure trip features Nayara Alto Atacama and is definitely suitable for couples and friends, not just honeymooners!

Cusco, Peru

Cusco Planetarium is situated in the hills above the city, nestled in a eucalyptus forest amid endemic vegetation. This family-run establishment was created to reaffirm the bond between the universe, our dreams, and our inner selves. The scientific director, Prof. Erwin Salazar, has over 40 years of experience observing the southern sky and has delivered more than 300 conferences worldwide.

Visitors to the planetarium will gain a deep understanding of the night sky and Southern Hemisphere constellations, learning about the distinctions between Incan and Western constellations and the Andean people's relationship with the cosmos. A unique feature of this experience is the presentation on Incan astronomy, highlighting how the Incas were the only known civilization to name the “negative constellations,” or the spaces between the stars.

The Incas revered natural elements, with astronomy playing a vital role in their culture. Similar to how Machu Picchu is aligned with the sun, Cusco was designed using star patterns. Incan symbols and constellations, such as Urcuchillay (the llama) and Mach’acuay (the serpent), were integral to their civilization and remain significant in understanding their astronomical legacy.

We can include a visit to Cusco Planetarium in any tour to Peru such as our Machu Picchu, Inca History and Amazon Rainforest experience.

See Machu Picchu, Inca History and Amazon Rainforest trip

Sacred Valley, Peru

Visit the small town of Huycho in the Sacred Valley of the Incas for an evening immersed in the wonders of the night sky. Far from urban light pollution, this pristine location offers spectacular views of the stars. This guided adventure into the infinite sea of stars transforms a great trip into a once-in-a-lifetime experience, providing a unique opportunity to connect with the essence of local culture and enjoy a stunning nightscape.

Here, you'll rediscover the night sky, with stars and constellations unveiling their ancient myths. The Andean people, expert astronomers, had a profound connection with the stars, understanding the world through natural cycles and deep cosmovision.

Through a telescope, exclusive celestial wonders will be revealed, showcasing remarkable parallels between star life and your own. As the adventure culminates, you'll capture the cosmic magic with an astrophotography souvenir, a lasting reminder of your connection to the universe. This experience not only enriches your visit but also deepens your appreciation of the ancient Andean connection to the cosmos.

This stargazing experience in Huycho is close to two of our favourite hotels in the Sacred Valley, Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba and Andenia Boutique. There is also the option for the guide to visit your hotel, depending on its location.

Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia

The otherworldly landscape of the Salar de Uyuni salt flats in Southern Bolivia offers a remarkable destination for stargazing. With clean air, expansive night skies, and visually stunning surroundings of ethereal white beauty, this is a surreal experience. During the wet season (December to May), the thin layer of water on the white salty surface creates a mirror reflection of the night sky. You can see the sky mirrored at your feet, making it appear as if you are floating in open space.

As part of our Salar de Uyuni experience aboard the luxury Airstream Campervans, we offer an enchanting stargazing experience. Step out from your cosy base into the chilly altiplano evening with a blanket and hot water bottle, as your guide navigates the night sky. The Milky Way, the Magellanic Clouds (distant dwarf galaxies), star clusters, and planets such as Saturn and Jupiter are commonly visible. With a bit of luck, you might even spot shooting stars.

Additionally, you will learn about the Andean cosmovision while enjoying a hot drink under the endless skies. This experience combines the awe of stargazing with the comfort of luxury, providing an unforgettable night under the stars.

Anantara, Maldives

Away from the light pollution of Male, this remote island paradise offers some of the best stargazing experiences in the Maldives. Guests can venture out to the overwater observatory (the first in the Maldives!) for an amazing journey through the constellations, guided by the rich knowledge of their SKY Guru.

From tracing the Milky Way to spotting distant planets, the nightly stargazing sessions reveal the true splendour of the night sky in this corner of the Indian Ocean. It's a humbling and awe-inspiring experience that leaves visitors with a newfound appreciation for the beauty of the cosmos.

Sossusvlei, Namibia

For an exceptional stargazing experience in Namibia, head to Desert Lodge. Guests are treated to a sophisticated on-site observatory, complete with a state-of-the-art Celestron CPC 1100 GPS (XLT) computerised telescope, subject to the availability of the resident astronomer.

But the real highlight is the large stargazing skylight above your bed. Situated on the edge of an International Dark Sky Reserve, the lodge offers phenomenal stargazing opportunities, far from the glow of city lights. Gaze up at the Milky Way in awe-inspiring detail as you reconnect with the timeless beauty of the cosmos in one of Africa's most breathtaking wilderness settings.

See Sossusvlei Desert Lodge

Khwai Private Reserve, Botswana

If you’re looking for a truly extraordinary way to immerse yourself in the African bush then you need look no further than the incredible Skybeds lodge in the Khwai Private Reserve, Botswana. Each "room" is a luxurious three-story raised platform, offering panoramic views of the wildlife-rich plains of Khwai. Rustic yet stylish, each Skybed features a first floor with a flushing toilet and a dressing area, while the crowning glory is the top floor, where you’ll spend a once-in-a-lifetime night under the African Sky. Don’t worry though, you’ll be in complete comfort with large double bed and super cosy duvet!

With the canopy of stars above, you may be tempted to forget the action unfolding below. But don’t get too distracted! The Skybeds overlook a bustling waterhole, where you’ll also get to see up close, the action that unfolds as the night draws in. While guests often feedback that you don’t get much sleep, we can assure you that this will be one of the most thrilling and unforgettable safari experiences you'll ever have.

Naibosho Conservancy, Kenya

At Saruni Leopard Hill, stargazing from the comfort of your luxury tent is an unforgettable experience....with the click of a button, your ‘tent’ roof disappears and the night sky appears (don’t worry though, you’re still protected with a mozzy net)

The lodge's serene environment and high-altitude location provide perfect conditions for stargazing. With virtually no artificial light to obstruct your view, you’ll be able to witness constellations like the Southern Cross, Orion, and the elusive Magellanic Clouds. If you’re lucky, you may even spot the occasional meteor streaking across the sky.

In short, Saruni Leopard Hill offers more than just a luxury safari experience—it offers a chance to connect with the cosmos in a truly unique way. So, if you’ve ever dreamed of gazing at the stars from the heart of Africa, this is the place for you! Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or a first-time stargazer, the night skies of Samburu will leave you in awe.

Summary

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Stargazing adds a magical touch to any holiday, turning your getaway into an unforgettable journey beneath the stars. From the crystal-clear skies of the Atacama Desert to the mirrored reflections of Bolivia's salt flats, these experiences go beyond the ordinary, offering moments of wonder and connection with the cosmos. Imagine relaxing at a luxury lodge in Namibia, drifting off to sleep under Kenya’s vast starlit skies, or learning about ancient Andean constellations in Peru. Wherever you travel, stargazing transforms your holiday into a cosmic adventure, blending relaxation, exploration, and the awe-inspiring beauty of the night sky.