Where to go Stargazing

Discover the world’s best stargazing spots, where constellations and the Milky Way light up the night sky.

Amanda
Amanda
Latin America Specialist
Published on
15 Nov 2024
Updated on
24 Apr 2025
Milky Way Stargazing Canva Pro

Introduction


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.

Stargazing holidays offer an unforgettable adventure, where the mysteries of the universe unfold right before your eyes. Imagine lying beneath a sky ablaze with countless stars, planets, and galaxies, in some of the world’s most awe-inspiring landscapes. These experiences are about more than just looking up—they’re about discovering the magic of our universe, connecting with ancient stories and cultural traditions, and feeling the thrill of witnessing shooting stars or the Milky Way stretching across the heavens. Whether you’re atop the salt flats of Bolivia, deep in the deserts of Namibia, or on a remote island in the Maldives, stargazing trips promise breath taking nights you’ll never forget.

Stargazing in the Mountains Canva Pro
Stargazing in the Mountains
Stargazing at Dusk Canva Pro
Stargazing at Dusk

What are the perfect conditions to appreciate the night sky? To truly appreciate the night sky, several conditions must be met. Beyond the obvious, moonless or near-moonless nights, clear skies, and distance from urban light pollution, there are additional factors to consider.

The best stargazing experience is achieved with a powerful telescope, ideally in a location with low humidity and cool temperatures, as cold air is less turbulent. Winter is often favoured for this reason and offers clearer views of the night sky. Altitude also plays a crucial role; the higher you are, the less atmosphere there is to interfere with the light from the stars.

For those seeking the best stargazing spots, Amanda, our Latin America expert, shares her top experiences, while Ruth, our Africa and Indian Ocean specialist, highlights her favourite destinations for an unforgettable night under the stars.

SV Stargazing Explorandes
Guided stargazing

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.


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!

Stargazing at Salar de Uyuni Canva Pro
Stargazing at Salar de Uyuni
Resort nayara alto atacama san pedro de atacama
Resort nayara, Atacama desert

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

Cusco City During Evening Canva Pro
Cusco City During Evening
Cusco Planetarium sightseeing

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.

Sacred Valley Peru Canva Pro
Sacred Valley, Peru
Woman with telescope watching stars Canva Pro
Woman with telescope watching stars

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.

Salt Lake Salar De Uyuni Canva Pro
Salt Lake Salar De Uyuni
Early evening Salt Falts Bolivia
Stargazing at Salar de Uyuni

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.

Maldives night sky
Night sky, Maldives
Overwater observatory maldives anantara
Overwater observatory, Anantara, Maldives

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

Dead Vlei Sossusvlei Namibia
Dead Vlei, Sossusvlei, Namibia
Desert Lodge Namibia
Desert Lodge, Namibia

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.

Mokoro on the Okavango Delta Canva Pro
Mokoro on the Okavango Delta
Bots Khwai Private Reserve Sky Beds Teagan Cunniffe51
Botswana Skybeds

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.

Saruni Basecamp Saruni Leopard Hill outdoor dining
Saruni Basecamp Saruni Leopard Hill, outdoor dining
Baines Baobabs in Botswana under a star trail Canva Pro
Baines Baobabs in Botswana under a star trail

Stargazing holidays take you on a journey that blends natural wonder with cultural discovery and a touch of luxury. From the surreal reflections of the Uyuni salt flats to the celestial wonders of the Atacama Desert, each destination offers a unique experience under the stars. Whether you’re immersing yourself in Andean cosmology in Peru or sleeping under Africa’s vast sky at a luxury safari lodge, these adventures invite you to see the world—and the universe—in a whole new light. Wherever you choose to gaze at the stars, you’re bound to be captivated by the timeless beauty of the cosmos and create memories that last a lifetime.

Summary


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.

Shirley Newman

What can I say….my son and myself had the most wonderful time in Kenya thanks to the first-class itinerary that Ben and Louise put together for us. We spoke with Ben many times to ensure he ‘got it right’. This was our 2nd visit to Kenya, and it certainly lived up to our expectations and memories. We stayed in four locations, firstly at the wonderful El Karama Lodge, Laikipia Wildlife Conservancy, where we even had a visit from Ruth from Far and Wild! Then, for a return visit, to Saruni Samburu, which is absolutely stunning and still one of our favourite places in the world. Next came Basecamp Mara Camp, where we saw our first Cheetah, the only animal we didn’t see on our first visit. After that, onto the wonderful Leopards Hill in the Naiboisho Conservancy, what a way to spend the last four days of this trip. Here we finally spent many hours with a beautiful leopard. Throughout our time in Kenya, we saw many lions, giraffes, elephants, ostriches, hyenas, cheetahs, and leopards, to name just a few. Nothing was too much trouble for all the staff; we cannot have been looked after any better. Since our return again Ben phoned to see how it went in addition to emails. I would highly recommend Far and Wild; they are so knowledgeable and have personally visited the lodges and areas. We are already planning another visit, and we cannot wait.

16 Aug 2025
Elizabeth Spells

I have just returned from the most amazing trip to Tanzania, booked with Far & Wild. Everything went so smoothly from the first time I spoke with them. The planning was great, the itinerary was perfect for us, and the lodges were amazing. We spent 10 nights with an amazing guide, travelling through Northern Tanzania and even got to see the migration, which was a lifetime ambition of mine. This wasn't our first safari, so we were nervous as to how it would compare, but it was spot on. We're particularly grateful that she suggested a private 'bush lunch' in the Ngorongoro Crater as the public picnic spot was very busy! I will certainly be using them again to book our next trip....we're thinking of a relaxing beach stay next time to get over the excitement of safari!

17 Sept 2025
Orla Rhodes

Just back from another amazing F&W organised trip to Namibia with the family (8 adults). Having been there before, Alistair tailored our trip to include our favourite locations and added a new one for us, Okonjima Plains camp, which we loved.The quality of accommodation and guiding, activities, food and drinks was exceptional throughout. Although not inexpensive I felt it was good value for the level of luxury we had. Kwessi Dunes, Shipwreck lodge, Ongava, Okonjima with pit stops Windhoek (city tour recommended ), Swakopmund (Sandwich Harbour and Walvis Bay tour) and Grootberg lodge (best sundowner drive )

31 Jul 2024
Arnhild Schia

We had a wonderful trip to São Tomé and Príncipe - a small island nation in the Gulf of Guinea with paradise (almost empty) beaches and jungle forest. It was all well organised by Far and Wild and we stayed at Omali lodge at Sao Tome, then on Roca Sundy, and Sunday Praia at Principe - a great combination of different types of resorts/hotels. Omali is close to Sao Tome town with its colonial buildings, markets, hustle and bustle. Roca Sunday gives an old plantation experience and Sundy Praia a luxury beach experience. Very friendly (from time to time a bit slow) service, great fresh food, specifically if you like fish/seafood, vegetables and fruits (almost all sourced locally). Nice temperature between 23 and 30 degrees Celsius, nice swimming conditions. We really recommend this for those who want to experience a pristine destination with few other tourists and friendly and welcoming people. The islands also feel (and I believe are) very safe. At Principe, there are no dangerous animals, snakes or whatever, and it was great to be able to hike in the jungle without being very conscious of where to put your hands and feet. Go before everyone else does!

3 Jul 2024
Henri Papenfus

Back home again, basking in the joys of a superb safari. Every aspect you arranged for us, including linking up with Mack Air and Wild Horizons locally to transport us. The choice of camps, Camp Hwange in Zimbabwe and Muchenenje Safari Lodge in Botswana, was spot on and exactly what we had hoped for - ideally situated, comfortable, in good surroundings, and with excellent wildlife on the doorstep and throughout the wider country. The service staff in each looked after us very well, catering was excellent, and the game guides were professional, knowledgeable and helpful. The weather was, as usual for that part of the world, also good at the time of our visit. Blue skies and stunning sunsets. Warm but not too hot during the day, although quite cold at sunrise when viewing game. The viewing started. You made us happy, and we recommend you to similar safari enthusiasts with confidence.

28 Jun 2024
AC

Far and Wild went above and beyond to make sure my trip to Zambia was special. I would definitely recommend them and their services to anyone wanting to travel to Africa.

5 Jun 2024
Tiny

Lovely holiday at the amazing Almanara on Galu beach, a beach like no other. Far and Wild excelled themselves from beginning to end of our holiday in beautiful Kenya.... What a country!,

5 Jun 2024
Stodge

Wow! These guys are amazing. Can’t recommend them highly enough. Friendly AND efficient! Sorted out our trip (last minute and lots of different family member needs, sorry!) in record time and everything worked like clockwork. Trip of a lifetime to the Masai Mara. Will be back (and use F&W again!)!

5 Jun 2024
Fiona C

It was a dreamy holiday on the Kenyan Coast - Far and Wild, their efficiency and professionalism allowed us to relax and be the happiest family alive !! We cannot fault them, their care and understanding of what we wanted from a holiday ensured we had the most memorable trip. We will be booking with them again for sure!

5 Jun 2024

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Amanda

Travel Expert