The Best Spots to Stargaze Around the World
Last week’s Perseid meteor shower was a reminder of why I love to travel and look up at the night sky. There’s something humbling, magical, and grounding about stargazing. Whether you’re curled up in your own backyard or standing in a faraway desert, the stars connect us to something bigger than ourselves.
The best part? You don’t need a trunk full of equipment or an expensive telescope to enjoy it. A little preparation goes a long way, and the memories will last forever.
What You’ll Need (Surprisingly Little!)
One of the reasons I love stargazing is that it’s so simple. Here are the basics:
Something comfy – A blanket on the ground or a folding chair if you don’t want to crane your neck.
Warm layers – Even in the desert, nights can be cold.
A red-light flashlight – Regular flashlights ruin your night vision; red light helps you see without washing out the stars.
Optional gear – Binoculars or a small telescope if you’d like, but your eyes are already a perfect tool.
Tips for Beginner Stargazing Photography (with one extra stargazing hack!)
If you’re hoping to capture a piece of the night sky, here are a few beginner-friendly tips (yes—even with your cell phone!):
Steady your camera – A tripod is ideal, but even resting your phone on a rock or backpack helps.
Use Night Mode – Most newer phones have it and it helps pull in extra light.
Tap to adjust exposure – Hold your finger on the darkest part of the sky and slide up/down for brightness.
Stay still – The longer the exposure, the more important it is to keep steady.
Play with foregrounds – Trees, mountains, or even your silhouette can make the stars pop in photos.
Check the moon phase before you go – A full moon is beautiful, but its brightness can wash out the stars. For the clearest skies and best Milky Way views, aim for a new moon or at least a week on either side of it.
Top 5 Stargazing Spots Around the World
Mauna Kea, Hawaii (USA)
Towering above the clouds, this dormant volcano on the Big Island is world-famous among astronomers. The high altitude and clear air mean a dazzling view of the stars—though bundle up, it gets cold!Atacama Desert, Chile
With 300+ clear nights a year and virtually no light pollution, the Atacama is one of the best places in the world to see the Milky Way in jaw-dropping detail.Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, New Zealand
The Southern Hemisphere’s first Dark Sky Reserve. That means it’s been officially recognized by the International Dark-Sky Association as a place with exceptionally dark, protected skies where light pollution is minimized. Here you’ll see the Southern Cross and Magellanic Clouds in their full glory.NamibRand Nature Reserve, Namibia
Africa’s first official dark sky reserve, where the desert’s stillness makes the stars feel almost alive. The sweeping landscapes paired with a glittering sky are unforgettable.Jasper National Park, Canada
A Dark Sky Preserve in the Canadian Rockies, where October brings an annual Dark Sky Festival full of science talks, stargazing parties, and cultural celebrations.
Wait, What’s a Dark Sky Reserve?
Great question! A Dark Sky Reserve is a protected area where light pollution is kept to an absolute minimum. That means fewer city lights to wash out the view and a chance to see the night sky much as our ancestors did, brimming with detail, texture, and mystery. These reserves are certified by the International Dark-Sky Association and are some of the very best places in the world to stargaze.
Helpful Stargazing Apps
Even the pros use apps to navigate the skies. A few worth downloading before your next trip:
SkyView – Point your phone at the sky and see constellations, planets, and satellites labeled in real time.
Stellarium – Basically a pocket-sized planetarium, with tons of detail.
Star Walk 2 – Beginner-friendly, beautiful, and easy to use.
Final Thoughts
Stargazing is one of those travel experiences that doesn’t require a ticket, a tour, or even much gear. It’s about slowing down, looking up, and remembering our place in this vast universe. Whether you’re chasing the next meteor shower from your backyard or planning a trip to one of the world’s certified Dark Sky Reserves, the stars will be waiting.
🌙 Pro tip: If stargazing is on your travel bucket list, check the moon calendar before you book. Planning around a new moon can completely transform what you see.
So, next time you pack your bag, maybe slip in a blanket, a thermos of something warm, and just a little extra curiosity. The sky will take care of the rest.
🌙 Ready to plan your own stargazing adventure? From the deserts of Namibia to the volcanoes of Hawaii, I’d love to help you find the perfect place to look up and get lost in the stars. If you decide to partner with Wayward Wings Travel, we’ll make sure your journey is every bit as magical as the night sky.
Yours in flight,
Tianna
