Starlight, star bright: The rise of astrotourism is drawing travellers to the dark skies of Africa
The stars have been our guides for centuries, shaping calendars, inspiring myths, and lighting the way for travellers. Today, they’re sparking a new kind of journey: astrotourism.
Adventurers are increasingly escaping urban lights to venture to the world’s darkest skies to witness the wonders of the cosmos.
Thanks to growing interest, astrotourism has evolved from a niche pursuit to one of the most exciting travel experiences, connecting travellers with the universe via astrotours, bespoke accommodation and unique celestial experiences.
The rise of International Dark-Sky Places (IDSPs) - destinations certified for their exceptional starry nights - has also made it easier for us to stargaze with minimal light pollution.
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“Dark sky tourism continues to grow in popularity year-on-year, with new International Dark Sky Places (IDSPs) being certified all the time,” explains Megan Eaves of DarkSky London.
“In 2023, we saw 20 new IDSPs designated worldwide. The diversity of these locations ensures the protection of nocturnal environments.”
The growing pull of astrotourism
Astrotourism is booming, reshaping how and why we travel. Increasing interest in celestial events and easier access to dark sky destinations have made stargazing holidays more appealing.
Rare phenomena like the upcoming 2027 solar eclipse are already driving demand, with travellers eager to secure front-row seats to the cosmos.
“Demand for ‘astrotourism’ travel has been growing year on year, with our 2027 astronomical-focused trips’ capacity more than trebled compared to 2024,” says Kevin Currie, director of New Scientist Discovery Tours.
Currie explains that travellers are drawn to iconic events such as “the longest eclipse in our lifetime, taking place on 2 August 2027,” as well as astronomy-themed tours to destinations like Chile, the Canaries, and Uzbekistan.
This heightened interest has also sparked new booking behaviours. “Our live 2026 and 2027 eclipse experiences are already over 75 per cent sold,” Currie adds.
Tour providers are expanding their offerings to meet the growing demand, introducing more specialised itineraries to ensure travellers can experience these awe-inspiring celestial events.
Head to African countries for dream dark-sky trips
Africa’s vast, open landscapes and minimal light pollution offer a stargazing experience few places can match.
In regions like Kenya and Namibia, the night sky lights up with a dazzling array of stars and planets that urban dwellers rarely see, from faint nebulae to the Southern Cross constellation.
Namibia’s NamibRand Nature Reserve, Africa’s only official International Dark-Sky Reserve, is internationally recognised for its pristine night skies. This UNESCO World Heritage site preserves the nocturnal environment and unique wildlife of the Namib Desert, making it a top destination for astrotourism.
Both South Africa’s Kruger National Park and the Drakensberg Mountains offer exceptional stargazing opportunities alongside their famous natural attractions.
The Drakensberg, a UNESCO World Heritage site, combines dramatic mountain landscapes with night skies perfect for spotting constellations. Meanwhile, Kruger’s remote campsites allow visitors to experience unpolluted views of the cosmos, far from city lights.
Botswana’s Central Kalahari Game Reserve, the largest and most remote reserve in southern Africa, is another standout destination. During the dry season (May to October), the clear, crisp skies over this untouched wilderness create ideal conditions for stargazing.
Africa’s diverse offerings make it a stargazer’s dream, with destinations combining unparalleled cosmos views and unique cultural and natural experiences. Here’s where to start.
Namibia is the gold standard for stargazing in Africa
Namibia’s dry climate and vast desert landscapes make it one of the best places on Earth to observe the night sky.
andBeyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge provides an unparalleled gateway to this celestial spectacle.
Perched on the edge of the NamibRand Nature Reserve, the lodge features a state-of-the-art observatory with a powerful Celestron CPC 1100 GPS telescope. Each evening, visitors can join a resident astronomer to explore the Milky Way's constellations, galaxies, and vast expanse.
The lodge’s design further enhances the dark sky experience: each suite has a large skylight directly above the bed, allowing guests to stargaze in total privacy.
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What makes the NamibRand Nature Reserve particularly unique is its dual role in preserving the desert’s unique wildlife and pristine night skies. With the nearest town over 140 kilometres away, the reserve’s dedication to reducing light pollution has earned it the prestigious ‘Gold Tier Dark Sky Parks’ status.
A 'Gold Tier' designation signifies a sanctuary where the night sky remains virtually untouched by light pollution or artificial illumination, resulting in some of the darkest and most pristine skies ever recorded.
Stargaze in the Waterberg Mountains of South Africa
The multi-award-winning Leobo Lodge in the Waterberg Mountains offers a stargazing experience that blends cutting-edge astronomy with luxurious and uniquely designed accommodations.
The lodge’s private observatory has advanced telescopes, allowing guests to observe planets, constellations, and meteor showers in extraordinary detail.
Leobo Lodge’s remote location also ensures that its skies remain clear and free from light pollution, while its personalised approach to hospitality creates an intimate connection to the night sky.
Sleep under the stars in Kenya
Kenya’s astrotourism offerings are as diverse as its landscapes.
Basecamp Samburu is a standout stargazing destination in the El Karama Conservancy. Jerry Mutisya, CEO of Saruni Basecamp, the safari group that offers this lodge, highlights the magic of Samburu’s skies:
“Our landscapes are amongst the best in the world for lovers of the Milky Way. In Samburu, where there is almost no light pollution, guests can take an evening laser-guided tour of the constellations hosted by our Samburu guides.”
Basecamp Samburu also offers a rare and immersive experience: Open-air starbeds perched atop volcanic rock.
These unique sleeping platforms provide an uninterrupted view of the night sky, allowing visitors to connect with the universe in complete solitude.
Mutisya calls it a “life-changing experience” - and it’s hard to disagree. Few places combine stargazing with such a profound sense of place.
Meanwhile, in Kenya’s Chyulu Hills, the private Ol Donyo Lodge offers a similarly captivating dark sky experience.
Guests are invited to sleep under the stars in eco-luxury suites surrounded by Kenya’s untamed wilderness. With no artificial light for miles, the lodge’s night skies are breathtakingly clear, providing an unfiltered view of the cosmos.
Our celestial fascination is driving a global movement
Astrotourism allows African countries to expand their tourism offerings while showcasing one of their most untapped treasures - the night sky. Investing in dark sky preservation attracts stargazing enthusiasts and appeals to travellers looking for eco-conscious and immersive experiences.
South Africa has already set an example by combining stargazing with its world-famous safaris, creating a unique experience: Watching the Big Five by day and the Milky Way by night adds a 'wow factor' that few destinations can match.
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Similarly, aligning stargazing activities with key celestial events, like meteor showers or eclipses, can draw visitors during quieter seasons, spreading economic benefits year-round.
By integrating stargazing into existing attractions, countries can offer something truly unique. From laser-guided constellation tours to cultural storytelling under the stars, the possibilities are as vast as the skies.
Astrotourism isn’t just a trend - it’s an opportunity to celebrate Africa’s extraordinary natural heritage while inspiring a new generation of travellers to look up and reconnect with the universe.
