ToursByLocals Blog Posts
Where to travel next to see a total solar eclipse
Apr 08 2024
A solar eclipse is one of those rare and remarkable celestial events that have the power to seemingly pause time and focus our attention like nothing else. As the moon’s shadow passes over the sun, todays’ total eclipse will cast a shadow 180km wide that races up the southern and eastern parts of the US and Canada. Over 31.6 million people live in the path of totality, and countless others have travelled into the path in order to witness what for many is a once in a lifetime event.
People across North America will have different experiences today: you may be in a place blessed with clear skies, and witness the eclipse in all its glory; you may be somewhere that’s clouded over, and see darkening skies, but miss out on the full deal. Or you may just live too far away to witness the spectacle, but have some serious eclipse FOMO and are now determined to see it for yourself. For some, today’s celestial event could just turn you into an eclipse tourist!
If you’re wanting to add “eclipse chaser” to your travel plans, here are some incredible destinations where you can witness the next three total solar eclipses throughout the rest of the decade.
Duration of Eclipse: 2 minutes 18 seconds
Location: The Faroe Islands and Iceland, including Reykjavik
The Experience: Picture yourself standing amidst Iceland's otherworldly landscapes, surrounded by glaciers, waterfalls, and volcanic terrain, as the moon blocks out the sun. The Faroe Islands, with their dramatic cliffs and coastal vistas, offer a similarly stunning backdrop for this cosmic event. Immerse yourself in Icelandic culture, explore geothermal hot springs, and perhaps even witness a late summer aurora borealis while awaiting the eclipse. Just be sure to pack warm clothing and prepare for the unpredictable weather typical of this Nordic island nation.
Location: The path of totality will cross both Morocco and Egypt, providing a unique opportunity to witness the eclipse against the backdrop of North Africa.
Duration of total eclipse: 6 minutes, 18 seconds
The Experience: Combine the allure of an exotic destination with the celestial wonder of an unusually long total solar eclipse in Morocco. From the bustling streets of Marrakech to the tranquil beauty of the Sahara Desert, Morocco offers a diverse range of experiences for eclipse chasers. Head to the desert dunes with a guide for an unobstructed view of the eclipse, or explore the country's rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes on a multi-day tour. Don't forget to sample Moroccan cuisine, shop in colorful souks, and immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of this North African gem.
...Or head to Egypt! Imagine witnessing the celestial dance of the sun and moon against the backdrop of iconic pyramids, temples, and monuments. From the bustling streets of Cairo to the tranquil banks of the Nile River, Egypt offers a mesmerizing setting for eclipse chasers. Consider a Luxor tour that combines eclipse viewing with visits to historical sites such as the Great Sphinx, Luxor Temple, and Abu Simbel. Experience the vibrant culture, sample traditional cuisine, and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Egyptian history while awaiting this cosmic spectacle. Just remember to plan ahead and secure your viewing spot, as Egypt is sure to be a popular destination for eclipse enthusiasts from around the world.
Duration of total eclipse: 5 minutes 10 seconds
Location: The eclipse will pass over the major cities of Sydney, Australia and Dunedin, New Zealand
The Experience: Witnessing the final total solar eclipse of the 2020s involves taking a trip to the southern hemisphere. The eclipse begins in the Indian Ocean, and doesn’t touch land until it reaches the sparsely populated northwest side of Australia. While much of the eclipse crosses remote parts of the continent, it will eventually reach Sydney, which sits smack dab in the middle of the eclipse’s path. If you’re a bigger fan of New Zealand, the shadow moves across to the south island, where the charming city of Dunedin is perfectly positioned to witness the event.
Total solar eclipses are rare and magical events that captivate people around the world. Over the next decade, these four destinations offer prime opportunities to witness this celestial spectacle while immersing yourself in diverse cultures and stunning landscapes. Whether you choose to chase the eclipse across North America, Europe, Africa, or Australia, each location promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe of the wonders of the universe. So pack your bags, prepare your viewing equipment, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey to witness the magic of a total solar eclipse.
Where to travel for solar eclipses in this decade
August 12, 2026: Iceland
Duration of Eclipse: 2 minutes 18 seconds
Location: The Faroe Islands and Iceland, including Reykjavik
The Experience: Picture yourself standing amidst Iceland's otherworldly landscapes, surrounded by glaciers, waterfalls, and volcanic terrain, as the moon blocks out the sun. The Faroe Islands, with their dramatic cliffs and coastal vistas, offer a similarly stunning backdrop for this cosmic event. Immerse yourself in Icelandic culture, explore geothermal hot springs, and perhaps even witness a late summer aurora borealis while awaiting the eclipse. Just be sure to pack warm clothing and prepare for the unpredictable weather typical of this Nordic island nation.
August 2, 2027: Morocco and Egypt
Location: The path of totality will cross both Morocco and Egypt, providing a unique opportunity to witness the eclipse against the backdrop of North Africa.
Duration of total eclipse: 6 minutes, 18 seconds
The Experience: Combine the allure of an exotic destination with the celestial wonder of an unusually long total solar eclipse in Morocco. From the bustling streets of Marrakech to the tranquil beauty of the Sahara Desert, Morocco offers a diverse range of experiences for eclipse chasers. Head to the desert dunes with a guide for an unobstructed view of the eclipse, or explore the country's rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes on a multi-day tour. Don't forget to sample Moroccan cuisine, shop in colorful souks, and immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of this North African gem.
...Or head to Egypt! Imagine witnessing the celestial dance of the sun and moon against the backdrop of iconic pyramids, temples, and monuments. From the bustling streets of Cairo to the tranquil banks of the Nile River, Egypt offers a mesmerizing setting for eclipse chasers. Consider a Luxor tour that combines eclipse viewing with visits to historical sites such as the Great Sphinx, Luxor Temple, and Abu Simbel. Experience the vibrant culture, sample traditional cuisine, and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Egyptian history while awaiting this cosmic spectacle. Just remember to plan ahead and secure your viewing spot, as Egypt is sure to be a popular destination for eclipse enthusiasts from around the world.
July 22, 2028: Australia and New Zealand
Duration of total eclipse: 5 minutes 10 seconds
Location: The eclipse will pass over the major cities of Sydney, Australia and Dunedin, New Zealand
The Experience: Witnessing the final total solar eclipse of the 2020s involves taking a trip to the southern hemisphere. The eclipse begins in the Indian Ocean, and doesn’t touch land until it reaches the sparsely populated northwest side of Australia. While much of the eclipse crosses remote parts of the continent, it will eventually reach Sydney, which sits smack dab in the middle of the eclipse’s path. If you’re a bigger fan of New Zealand, the shadow moves across to the south island, where the charming city of Dunedin is perfectly positioned to witness the event.
Total solar eclipses are rare and magical events that captivate people around the world. Over the next decade, these four destinations offer prime opportunities to witness this celestial spectacle while immersing yourself in diverse cultures and stunning landscapes. Whether you choose to chase the eclipse across North America, Europe, Africa, or Australia, each location promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe of the wonders of the universe. So pack your bags, prepare your viewing equipment, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey to witness the magic of a total solar eclipse.