South Africa is a stargazing paradise. There’s nothing quite like being able to look up into the night sky and see the constellations seemingly within arm’s reach. The writer of Psalm 8 states, “Your moon and your stars, mounted like jewels in their settings,” and this is such an apt description.
From the rugged coastlines of the Western Cape to the vast open spaces of the Karoo, South Africa offers a range of spectacular stargazing spots that are sure to inspire and fill with awe. Whether you’re an amateur astronomer or just a lover of the night sky, as we are, here are some of the best places to go stargazing in South Africa.
1. Stargazing in Sutherland
The Karoo is by far the best place for stargazing, so deciding on Sutherland, in the Northern Cape, as the home of the South African Astronomical Observatory was an obvious choice. The town is also situated at a high altitude (1 800 m above sea level) which means that the air is thin and clear, providing excellent viewing conditions.
Equipped with some of the most powerful telescopes on the planet and located in a region with virtually no light pollution, the Observatory offers star lovers an opportunity to peep into distant galaxies, as well as look more closely at Orion the Hunter, and his famous belt, the Southern Cross, or Crux, and the first stars we see at night, Sirius and Canopus.
Day and night tours are offered to visitors, and these include a guided tour of the South African Large Telescope (SALT), the second-largest optical telescope in the world. You can visit the Observatory in the heat of summer and the frozen heart of winter and be treated to an out-of-this-world experience!
If you are travelling in a small group, why not stay at the Artist Cottage? If you’re interested in a slightly larger holiday home, book at the Oupoort Eco and Guest Farm. It’s completely off the grid and perfect for stargazing too!
2. Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park
This vast park on the South Africa/Botswana border is not only home to incredible wildlife but also has some of the darkest skies in the country. The stargazing conditions in this spot are truly exceptional. So much so that it registers a Sky Quality Meter score of 21.9, with the highest possible score being 22. With no artificial lights for kilometres around, you’ll be able to see stars, planets, and galaxies in incredible detail. So grab a blanket and a thermos of hot cocoa, and prepare to be amazed by the wonders of the cosmos.
Accommodation is available within the Park, with one option being an unfenced tented camp.
3. Prince Albert
We went on our first stargazing course in Prince Albert. In those days, Hans and Tilanie Daehne, an amazing couple who knew everything space related, took us out into the veld on a cold winter’s night and introduced us to our galaxy. We will never forget the wonderful time we had and the sherry that kept us warm when the temperature dropped. Seeing Saturn through a telescope, with its beautiful rings, and the Jewel Box, an open cluster in the constellation Crux, was simply amazing and an unforgettable experience.
Sadly, Astro Tours is no longer in operation as the couple has retired, but the town remains a perfect place for stargazing.
Accommodation is easily available in Prince Albert.
4. Kruger National Park
This iconic park in the northeast of the country is not just a wildlife wonderland but also has some great stargazing opportunities. Its remote location and low levels of light pollution make it an ideal spot to observe the stars.
The areas located further north in the reserve are known for their exceptional stargazing conditions. One location favoured by stargazers is Kruger’s Punda Maria Camp, on the northern fringes of the reserve. From here, you can observe the Milky Way, Centaurus, and a host of other celestial wonders.
5. Drakensberg Mountains
If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and spend a night under the stars, the Drakensberg Mountains offer a perfect respite. With little to no light pollution and clear skies, you can enjoy an uninterrupted view of the night sky and revel in the beauty of the Milky Way above.
You can take your pick of Southern, Central, or Northern Berg. But if you’re up for a bit of adventure, a hike to the top of the Amphitheatre is the way to go. Climb up the chain ladder right to the top. Bring along a tent, some cosy blankets, and some sustenance, and spend the night basking under the night sky. With its secluded location and awe-inspiring views, a night atop the Amphitheatre offers a truly unforgettable experience. Remember to check the weather forecast before you set out.
6. Hogsback
Hogsback is a quirky little town located in the Amatole Mountains of the Eastern Cape, South Africa. Known for its stunning natural beauty, tranquil forests, and scenic waterfalls, this idyllic town is a popular holiday destination for nature lovers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts.
Apart from its stunning natural scenery, Hogsback is also renowned for its excellent stargazing conditions. Visitors to Hogsback can gaze up at the stars and constellations with clarity and perhaps even catch a glimpse of Canis Major in the summer and Scorpius in the winter.
Hogsback is home to a variety of accommodation options, including cosy guesthouses, quaint cottages, and rustic camping sites, making it an ideal destination for both budget and luxury travellers. Apart from stargazing, visitors to Hogsback can enjoy a range of activities such as hiking, mountain biking, birdwatching, and exploring the town’s many art galleries and craft shops.
7. Golden Gate Highlands National Park
Located in the Free State province near the Lesotho border, the Golden Gate Highlands National Park spans over 340 square kilometres and features magnificent sandstone cliffs, rolling hills, and sweeping valleys. As Plato once said, “Astronomy compels the soul to look upwards and leads us from this world to another.” And what better place to connect with the universe than under the brilliance of the South African night sky? The Golden Gate National Park’s remote location and minimal light pollution make it a prime location for stargazing.
Various accommodation options are available.
8. Cederberg
The Cederberg is a mountainous area located in the Western Cape province of South Africa, about two and a half hours north of Cape Town. The region is known for its rugged landscapes, unique rock formations, and ancient San rock art.
As a holiday destination, the Cederberg is perfect for those seeking outdoor adventure and relaxation in a stunning natural setting. Visitors can hike through the beautiful wilderness, swim in crystal-clear rock pools, and enjoy breathtaking views of the mountains.
One of the highlights of the Cederberg is its incredible stargazing opportunities. Due to its remote location and minimal light pollution, the area boasts some of the clearest and most dazzling night skies in South Africa. Visitors can observe an array of constellations. There are also several stargazing tours and experiences available, including night hikes and telescope viewing sessions at the nearby privately owned observatory.
A wonderful variety of accommodation exists.
A Sky Full Of Stars…
The stars and planets have been a source of wonder and inspiration to humans for millennia, and viewing them in the clear South African night sky is an experience not to be missed.
