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The Best Spots for Stargazing in South Africa


Photo taken by Frederick Brownell

While doing some browsing on the web I came across a great blog on the South African Tourism website. If you’re looking to learn more about this awesome country, and potentially plan a visit this is a great resource for making the most of your time there. After reading a recent post by Suzanne Rose I decided what I definitely want to do if I visit South Africa, stargaze. I never realized until now how underrated stargazing is. It’s a great activity to do with your family, friends, or significant other. Grab a blanket, some snacks, and a bottle of wine and lay under the stars of the South African sky for hours. The top 6 stargazing spots in this country are:

  • South African Largest Telescope (SALT)- Western Cape

  • Karoo National Park- Western Cape

  • The Waterberg- Limpopo

  • Tswalu Kalahari Private Game Reserve- Northern Cape

  • Mountain Passes of the Eastern Cape Highlands

  • Madikwe Game Reserve Lodges- North West Province

Each of these offers each visitor something different and special. SALT is considered one of the world’s best stargazing locations due to the cold and pollution-free air. The Waterberg has natural hot springs, the Tswalu Kalahari Private Game Reserve offers two luxury camps and is privately owned, and the Madikwe Game Reserve Lodge has 20 luxury lodges for you to stay at.

This is a different and creative way to see South Africa. What comes to mind when I think about a trip to this country is somewhat stereotypical; going on a safari or taking a river cruise. Stargazing is something that never would’ve popped into my mind if I hadn’t stumbled upon South African Tourism’s blog. It gives you the opportunity to take in the natural beauty of this noteworthy travel spot on your own or whoever you’re with. Rose does a great job at providing readers with an outlet for having a more authentic experience and travel like a true South African.

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