Watch the night sky: Stargazing in Atacama, Chile
What's the story
The Atacama Desert in Chile is renowned for its exceptionally clear night skies.
Situated at a high altitude, its dry air and minimal light pollution create perfect conditions for stargazing.
Every night, visitors from across the globe gather here to witness the stunning celestial displays that the desert sky provides.
This unique setting offers an unparalleled stargazing experience.
Getting there
Planning your stargazing adventure
To experience Atacama's stargazing, travelers often fly into Calama's airport and drive to San Pedro de Atacama.
This town acts as a base for exploring the desert's celestial wonders.
Several observatories there offer guided tours, simplifying the planning of a memorable night under the stars.
This makes it easy for visitors to enjoy an unparalleled stargazing adventure.
When to go
Choosing the best time to visit
To enjoy Atacama's stargazing at its best, visit during the Southern Hemisphere's winter, from June to September.
These months offer the clearest skies and host numerous celestial events.
The desert nights, however, can be quite cold. It is essential for visitors to bring warm clothing to stay comfortable while observing the stars.
This period ensures an optimal balance between clear skies and celestial activity.
Guided tours
Exploring with experts
Several observatories around San Pedro de Atacama offer nightly tours led by knowledgeable astronomers.
These tours often include a lecture on astronomy and a chance to observe distant galaxies, nebulae, and planets through powerful telescopes.
It's a unique opportunity to learn about the universe from experts in one of the best locations on Earth for astronomical observation.
Guided tours
Joining a guided stargazing tour
In San Pedro de Atacama, several observatories offer guided stargazing tours.
These tours come equipped with telescopes and are led by expert astronomers who help visitors interpret the night sky.
Participants get a unique opportunity to view planets, galaxies, and nebulae up close.
Due to their popularity, it is advisable to book these tours well in advance.
Desert nights
Venturing beyond observatories
For those seeking solitude, driving into the desert away from light pollution offers a magnificent stargazing backdrop.
The Milky Way stretches vividly across the sky, with shooting stars frequently visible.
Before venturing into remote areas at night, ensure you have accurate directions and necessary supplies.
This experience allows for personal connection with the cosmos under one of the clearest night skies on Earth.
Daytime discoveries
Exploring beyond stargazing
Nights in the Atacama are for stargazing, while days explore its wonders.
Visit Valle de la Luna for moon-like landscapes and Tatio Geysers for hot springs.
These sites offer a contrast to nighttime skies, highlighting Atacama's diverse beauty.
This blend of celestial and natural exploration provides a unique journey through one of Earth's remarkable landscapes.
It marries clear skies with breathtaking surroundings.