17 Best Spots for Stargazing Around the World
There’s something deeply magical about looking up on a clear night sky. From the shimmer of the Milky Way pulling across the heavens to the search for distant constellations, stargazing brings you back to how big and how beautiful the cosmos is. The problem is to find that perfect spot, preferably free of light pollution and cloudy skies, to have the best experience.
There are places, from remote deserts to mountaintops, to locations only a short distance from bustling cities, where you can see the universe as it truly is. For aficionados of all things celestial, as well as the casual star-watcher, this guide will lead you across the globe to the best places to view the dazzling night skies.
Atacama Desert, Chile
The Atacama Desert is not just dry; it’s the driest place on Earth. But its arid climate, high altitude and near zero light pollution also make it a mecca for stargazers. Astronomers and tourists come to the desert’s observatories including ALMA and Paranal to admire the crystal clear skies. On moonless nights, the Milky Way is so bright it seems you can touch it. It promises celestial sights you’ll not forget in a hurry.
Mauna Kea, Hawaii, USA
Astronomer’s paradise Mauna Kea in Hawaii towers over the clouds at 13,796 feet. The thin air and little light interference of the summit make for perfect stargazing. Tourists can either come on guided tours to the observatories or just come to the visitor center and enjoy the view. But do remember, the altitude might give you the breath away literally, so don’t head up without acclimatizing yourself first.
Jasper National Park, Canada
One of the darkest skies you’ll ever see is at Jasper National Park in Alberta if you’re in North America. The stargazing here is nothing short of breathtaking, and it’s part of the world’s second largest dark-sky preserve. Every year, the park hosts the Jasper Dark Sky Festival in October, when people of all ages gather to celebrate what’s above.
NamibRand Nature Reserve, Namibia
One of Africa’s most celebrated dark-sky reserves is the NamibRand Nature Reserve. Located deep within Namibia’s desert hinterland, this territory provides an out of this world canvas for gazing at the stars. Imagine yourself laying on a blanket, amongst sand dunes, being surrounded by shooting stars across an ink black sky. It’s a starry dream come true for those who desire adventure and tranquility.
Canary Islands, Tenerife, Spain
While Tenerife is famed for its beaches, its volcanic landscapes and high summit peaks also mean it’s an awesome place to go stargazing. Especially popular are uninterrupted views of the cosmos from Mount Teide, the island’s crown jewel. In fact, many hotels are catering to stargazers, with rooftop telescopes and guided night tours.
Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, New Zealand
Aoraki Mackenzie in New Zealand is a gem for southern hemisphere stargazing. And this reserve is set among the Southern Alps, with some of the planet’s darkest skies. In this destination, tourists come looking to catch sight of the Southern Cross, the Magellanic Clouds and even the fabulous Aurora Australis. Pro tip: it’s chilly even in summer, so bundle up!
Death Valley National Park, California, USA
You wouldn’t think Death Valley would sound like a nice place, but its skies sure are. Located in California and home to some of the most clear, dramatic nightscapes in the country, this desert park is a must if you find yourself in the U.S. in winter — especially if you’re armed with a telescope. Stargazers in particular love the park’s Furnace Creek area.
Galloway Forest Park, Scotland
Galloway Forest Park is a Scottish treasure for night sky lovers, often called the ‘Highlands of the Lowlands’. With very few artificial sources of light, you can pick out constellations, shooting stars, and even planets with your naked eye. It is both cosmic and cultural due to local myths and tales.
Uluru, Australia
Of course, the iconic red rock might be the first to grab your attention during the day, its desert sky will have you looking skyward in wonder. The area is far situated from cities and its skies are pitch black — allowing for unrivaled Milky Way and celestial viewing. Aboriginal stories are often combined with stargazing on many tours.
Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia
During the rainy season, the world’s biggest salt flat, Salar de Uyuni, becomes one giant mirror. The reflection as the sky clear and stars out looks like something out of a sci fi movie – absolutely ethereal and otherworldly. It’s a surreal experience; earth crosses into the sky.
Sagarmatha National Park, Nepal
Sagarmatha National Park is so close to Mount Everest that you can gaze at the stars from its shadows. A crisp, clear high altitude air allows for excellent night skies. What’s more? The Himalayan backdrop is one of the most majestic things you’ll ever see. Gazing at the stars here is the ultimate reward, after a day of trekking.
Kerry International Dark Sky Reserve, Ireland
Better known for its rolling green hills, Ireland has Kerry Dark Sky Reserve that’s a haven to star enthusiasts. This reserve, located on the Iveragh Peninsula, has skies so clear you can see the Milky Way stretching from horizon to horizon. After a cold day of stargazing, it’s easy to warm up at local pubs nearby.
Mont-Mégantic National Park, Canada
Much like Mont-Mégantic in Quebec, this Canadian gem combines natural beauty and astronomical wonder. The ASTROLab, an observatory and museum of stargazing is found within the park. Whether you’re an amateur or an expert, there’s something for everyone here, just don’t forget your French phrasebook!
Cherry Springs State Park, Pennsylvania, USA
For East Coast stargazers, Cherry Springs State Park is a hidden gem. The park, which is known as one of the darkest places in the U.S., often programs astronomy events and programming for visitors. It’s even a popular astrophotography spot, so if you have a camera, come along with it to capture the brilliance of the night.
Big Bend National Park, Texas, USA
Everything’s bigger in Texas, including the night skies. Aside from its vast unspoiled vistas by day, Big Bend National Park is also famous for those it offers at night. Due to the remote location of the park, it’s a perfect spot to stargaze, as you camp under the stars or attend one of the park’s many astronomy events.
The Arctic Circle
Head far north for a celestial double feature: Northern lights and stars. During winter months, night time skies in places like Tromsø, Norway and Lapland, Finland are nothing but incredible. And dress warmly—it’s called the Arctic for a reason!
La Palma, Canary Islands, Spain
La Palma, often called ‘La Isla Bonita’, is an island that’s tailor-made for stargazers. The island has some of Europe’s clearest skies due to strict laws to curb light pollution. Observatories like Roque de los Muchachos are open to visitors, with breathtaking views of galaxies far, far away.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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