Wish upon a star: Stargazing in South America
If you’ve ever wished upon a star, or thought of far-away galaxies, then stargazing in South America is for you!
South America is a stargazing haven, with many parts experiencing crystal-clear skies, high altitudes and zero to low light pollution. The stars have literally aligned to reveal every astronomer and wannabe astronomer’s dream. Our favourite stargazing experiences in South America can be found in Cusco, Peru and San Pedro de Atacama, Chile.
Cusco Planetarium, Peru
Credit: https://info-peru.de/sternenjagd-im-planetarium-cusco/
Located just 15 minutes away from downtown Cusco, the planetarium offers a night-sky tour like no other. Whether you’re an amateur astronomer or just fancy a star-gaze, the Cusco Planetarium is a magical way to spend an evening in Cusco.
The incredible two-hour experience (in both Spanish and English) begins with an interesting and educational presentation and cultural interpretation of Incan astronomy where you’ll learn about the ancient view of the ancient Incan Empire’s view on the universe, and the fascinating Incan relationship with the stars and the sky. You’ll then move into the purpose-built planetarium, where constellations are projected onto the domed roof above. Here you’ll learn all about the southern sky’s constellations and how to recognise them. Finally, rugged up in blankets, you’ll venture outside to view some of the night sky’s treasures through their incredible telescopes. If you’re lucky, you’ll see everything from planets to stars, to galaxies and maybe even a comet (the stars aligned for us and we were lucky enough to see Lovejoy). You’ll be blown away as you see the light of stars that has travelled thousands of years and years just to reach our sight.
From easy online bookings, to shuttle pick-up/drop-off in downtown Cusco and cosy blankets for the outdoor viewing, this family run experience offers a top-notch service. And the incredible staff are knowledgeable and friendly to boot. If you’re trekking the Inca Trail, be sure to do this tour before you go, so that you can recognise the constellations during your hike. And one final tip: Dress warm!
For more information or to book online, visit: http://www.planetariumcusco.com/en/
Atacama Desert Stargazing, Chile
Credit: Jorge Corante
With it’s clear, unpolluted skies and high altitudes, nowhere on Earth offers better stargazing than Northern Chile’s Atacama Desert. So much so that serval top-level observatories have set up base here and astrotourism is quickly becoming a ‘thing’.
This desert oasis offers a multitude of sightseeing tours, but Jorge’s Atacama Desert Stargazing Tours can’t be beat. With more than 15 years of experience, enthusiastic Jorge and his team offer one of the best experiences you’ll have whilst in the Atacama Desert.
Atacama Desert Stargazing offers group or private customised tours which start with a beginner’s crash course in astronomy, followed by stargazing with the naked eye as Jorge points out constellations and other fascinating night sky highlights. Then begins the telescopic fun, as the passionate Jorge adjusts his personal collection of telescopes to showcase the Atacama Desert sky’s best: stars, clusters, nebulas, planets and more.
And it doesn’t end there, with a tasty supper, heaters, blankets and a pick-up service on offer, you’ll feel positively treated by Jorge and his team.
For more information or to book online, visit: www.atacamadesertstargazing.com
