With light pollution diminishing the visibility of stars for many around the globe, dark-sky destinations are rapidly gaining popularity as travellers seek unspoiled views of the cosmos. These celestial getaways—officially designated as “dark-sky parks” by DarkSky International—offer an unparalleled view of the stars, constellations, and even rare cosmic events. For astro-tourism enthusiasts and stargazers, 2025 presents an opportunity to discover some of the world’s best sites for star-filled experiences, from Saudi Arabia’s ancient landscapes to the desert plateau of Chile and the pristine wilderness of Québec, Canada.
Here’s a look at the most awe-inspiring destinations to watch the night sky come alive.
AlUla, Saudi Arabia: Where Ancient History Meets the Cosmos
AlUla in Saudi Arabia, a mesmerizing desert oasis steeped in over 200,000 years of history, recently made headlines as the first location in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region to achieve a coveted Dark Sky Park status. It is recognized as one of the world’s most exceptional stargazing spots. AlUla is renowned for its sky clarity, atmospheric conditions, and low light pollution, placing it in the top 5% globally for dark-sky quality. This recognition has catapulted the region onto the world stage as a leading destination for astro-tourism in 2025.
AlUla Art: Wadi AlFann sunset (Saudi Arabia)
Why AlUla?
Beyond the star-strewn skies, AlUla offers travellers an immersive experience combining natural beauty with ancient heritage sites, including Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hegra—often referred to as Petra’s sister city. This blend of history and astronomy invites visitors to explore the same skies Bedouins once navigated, guided by constellations and celestial bodies. Expert-led stargazing tours in AlUla provide an informative exploration of star patterns and insights into celestial navigation’s cultural and historical significance in Arabian deserts.
In October 2024, AlUla hosted a rare spectacle: Comet C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS), a once-in-a-lifetime sight that attracted galaxy chasers from around the globe. This landmark event underscored AlUla’s growing status as an astro-tourism hotspot, where “star-bathing” has become the new sunbathing.
For travellers looking to witness similar wonders in 2025, AlUla offers a captivating adventure into the night, underscored by towering rock formations, ancient monuments, and breathtaking open skies.
The Atacama Desert, Chile: A High-Altitude Celestial Haven
South America’s Atacama Desert, perched on a high-altitude plateau along Chile’s Pacific coast, is widely acclaimed as one of the planet’s finest stargazing destinations. Known for its unique combination of minimal humidity, high altitude, and almost no light pollution, Atacama has become a world-renowned hub for astronomy, hosting some of Earth’s most advanced observatories.
Tierra Atacama Exterior and Night Sky.
Why the Atacama?
The Andean mountain range, dotted with volcanic peaks and ethereal salt flats, creates an unmatched backdrop for stargazing. For indigenous Atacameño people, the night sky holds significant spiritual and cultural value, with traditions depicting the Milky Way as “Hatu Mayu,” or the “River of Heaven.” This celestial river and other star patterns have been a navigational and mythological tool for centuries, connecting modern travellers to the ancient people who once gazed upon the same sky.
In 2025, travellers can look forward to staying at the newly renovated Tierra Atacama. This luxury eco-resort, reopening after a comprehensive transformation, offers tailored stargazing tours led by in-house astronomy experts. These tours bring guests face-to-face with some of the clearest night skies in the world.
Whether you’re an astronomy enthusiast or a curious traveller, Atacama’s open skies offer a window to the universe and a chance to explore the cosmos through the lenses of science, culture, and spirituality.
Québec, Canada: Dark Skies in the Heart of North America
For North American stargazers, Québec is emerging as an irresistible destination for dark-sky tourism. This Canadian province is home to several protected dark-sky locations, each offering a distinct experience for viewing the stars. Québec’s dedication to preserving natural darkness has created extraordinary stargazing locations, making it a destination in 2025.
Quebec Parc national du Mont-Megantic.
Why Québec?
The Mont-Mégantic International Dark Sky Reserve, the world’s first designated International Dark Sky Reserve (IDSR), is a shining example of Québec’s commitment to protecting nocturnal environments. Light pollution is almost non-existent here, providing an immersive experience for those yearning for an authentic celestial connection. Further enhancing the province’s appeal, Parc National du Mont-Tremblant received an International Dark Sky Park designation in 2023, highlighting its pristine skies and dedication to conservation.
Visitors can explore Au Diable Vert’s “Observetoiles” in Glen Sutton for an unforgettable blend of nature and technology. This one-of-a-kind, open-air augmented reality planetarium immerses viewers in the cosmos through live narration by expert astronomers, adding an educational layer to the visual spectacle. Meanwhile, Sherbrooke’s Parc du Mont-Bellevue stands as Canada’s first “Urban Night Sky Place,” making dark-sky tourism accessible in a city setting by carefully curbing urban light pollution.
Québec’s diverse offerings allow visitors to enjoy the night sky while learning about the province’s cultural connections to the stars, making it a stellar choice for a memorable stargazing experience in 2025.
Final Thoughts: A Journey Beyond the Stars
As 2025 unfolds, dark-sky tourism is set to continue its rise, attracting travellers to destinations where the night sky takes centre stage. These places—AlUla, the Atacama Desert, and Québec—offer clear views of the cosmos and immersive, culturally enriching experiences that bring people closer to the ancient tradition of stargazing. For those seeking to reconnect with nature truly spectacularly, “star-bathing” may become the new sunbathing, inspiring travellers to witness the cosmos like never before.
Written by: Jill Walsh
