North West - Stargazing

Stargazing is a popular outdoor activity, offering a chance to see the night skies of South Africa as you’ve never experienced them before. There are many excellent spots to enjoy endless hours gazing into the starry universe above, as you learn more about stars, planets and astronomy. For inquiring minds searching for knowledge and a bit of magic, this is one of the most rewarding and fascinating adventure activities on offer, giving you a chance to learn more about the universe we live in and the huge cosmos that we are a part of. Some of the top destinations for astronomy include the following:

Gauteng

In Gauteng, you can join fellow stargazers on astro tours that take you across mountain, bush and desert, armed with large portable telescopes as you capture awe-inspiring planetary wonders - discover a world of starry landscapes in the night skies of Johannesburg and surrounds. Professional astronomers are on hand to give talks and entertain groups with information and tales relating to the stars and planets of our universe. With its wide open spaces and beautiful bushveld areas, gazing upon the stars and discovering the secrets that the galaxy holds is perfect in Gauteng.

West Coast

Along the Cape’s West Coast, you will be able to enjoy some of the finest star tours in the province. Tours start at sunset, giving you ample time to watch the sun go down and wait for a blanket of stars to appear. Experienced professional astronomers will explain more about the stars in relation to planets, and with small groups of ten (the maximum), you can be sure of a personalised and intimate experience. With the breathtaking mountains around Cederberg and surrounds, the night air is fragrant with the scent of pine and fruit trees, adding an extra dimension to the celestial show you can enjoy in the skies above.

Garden Route

There are some excellent Garden Route tours to enjoy gazing upon the stars. Sutherland and the Karoo regions offer one of the best spots, with beautiful scenery and spectacular stars in one of the most magnificent areas in the province, making this one of the best places for astronomy in South Africa.