Astrotourism: Celebrity travel hot spots for stargazing

See the three best places in the world to chase the stars

Miami

UPDATED JUNE 9, 2024 2:54 PM EDTJUN 9, 2024, 2:54 PM EDT

You’re out in the middle of nowhere, in the heart of the wilderness, surrounded by nothing but darkness. But when you look up, the sky is alive with twinkling stars, planets, and maybe even the occasional shooting star. That is what astrotourism is all about—an exhilarating trend in which people ditch the city lights and head to remote destinations to soak in the beauty of the night sky.

With all the hustle and bustle of everyday life, we often forget how relaxing the stars can be. However, astrotourism is reshaping this perspective. And there are some heavenly spots on this planet that are absolute gold mines for stargazers. Places where the Milky Way stretches across the sky like a luminous river and constellations you never even knew existed are revealed. These destinations aren’t just about stargazing either; they offer complete experiences, from guided night sky tours to cozy stargazing campsites.

It’s all about slowing down, looking up, and being in awe of the wonders of the universe right above our heads. Here are the top three destinations to travel to so you can chase the stars.

Atacama Desert, Chile

Imagine standing in the middle of the Atacama Desert as the sun sets, painting the sky with vibrant hues of orange and pink. As darkness descends, the first stars begin to twinkle, gradually revealing the Milky Way stretching across the horizon. Guided by expert astronomers, embark on a journey through the cosmos, tracing the constellations and learning about the planets, stars, and galaxies that comprise the night sky.

“From the moment our guests arrive they will be immersed in the captivating beauty of the desert and into the heart of the local and ancestral culture of the Atacameños” - Ana Carla - Sales Manager from Nayara Alto Atacama Hotel

Wrapped in the silence of the desert, under a sea of stars, you feel a profound sense of awe and wonder at the vastness of the universe. The weather in this region is typically dry, with clear skies allowing for breathtaking stargazing opportunities.

Antonio Banderas, Gabriel Byrne, and Juliette Binoche spent a month in the Atacama Desert shooting the movie ‘The 33.’

Natural Bridges National Monument, Utah

Nestled in southeastern Utah, Natural Bridges National Monument offers visitors rock formations and celestial wonders. In 2007, it was recognized as the world’s first International Dark Sky Park, offering endless stargazing opportunities amidst the desert’s rugged splendor. By day, explore numerous hiking trails in the park’s stunning landscape, then settle in for an unforgettable night of stargazing. With minimal light pollution, it’s an ideal spot to observe the cosmos in all its glory.

Another excellent location for those seeking further celestial adventures is the neighboring Bryce Canyon National Park, which hosts an annual Night Sky Astronomy Festival. Bryce, renowned for its low light pollution, is among the world’s best places for stargazing.

Accommodations cater to various preferences, from the comfortable Goulding’s Lodge in nearby Blanding to the rustic camping experience at Kane Gulch Ranger Station Campground and luxury hotels like Amangiri, where stars like Lady Gaga, Ariana Grande and Brad Pitt have stayed.

Thingvellir National Park, Iceland

Iceland’s pristine natural landscapes and remote locations make it a haven for stargazers seeking unparalleled celestial vistas. Away from the glow of urban centers, Iceland offers some of the darkest skies in the world, ideal for observing the wonders of the cosmos. And that is what Victoria and David Beckham did while traveling here.

One of the best stargazing spots in Iceland is Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its geological and historical significance. Visitors can marvel at the night sky surrounded by dramatic rift valleys and crystalline lakes, creating a truly enchanting experience. Also, the Westfjords region, with its rugged coastline and sparse population, provides excellent stargazing opportunities, offering unobstructed views of the heavens above.

Iceland’s most sought-after celestial phenomena is the Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights. From late August to mid-April, when the nights are long and dark, the skies come alive with vibrant displays of green, purple, and pink hues dancing across the horizon. Remote locations such as the Snaefellsnes Peninsula and the remote village of Vik offer ideal conditions for viewing this breathtaking spectacle.

For those seeking a more structured stargazing experience, several ground operators in Iceland offer guided Northern Lights tours and astronomy excursions. These experiences often include knowledgeable guides who provide insights into the science and mythology behind the celestial displays.

Accommodations in Iceland range from cozy guest houses to luxury hotels. Many of these offer amenities such as outdoor hot tubs or geothermal pools, which are perfect for relaxing under the stars after a night of stargazing. A great way to visit this country is by road, so a self-drive trip is definitely an option.

Just recently Lele Pons and Guaynaa are two of our favorite celebrity couples that traveled to this magical spot .

Natalia Ordonez Durand, a contributor writer and Female Founder at BP Journey, introduced HOLA! to this inspiring list of women. For those seeking a career in travel and adventure, visit bpjourney.com .