The volcanic Canary Islands off the coast of West Africa and the slender South American country of Chile don’t share an obvious amount in common. But dry atmospheres and a lack of light pollution mean they’ve both been lauded as some of the best stargazing locations in the world. There’s nothing we love more than a night under the sky, so we’ve chosen some of our favourite glamping spots for a memorable celestial escape.
Elqui Domos, Atacama Desert, Chile
These ‘geodesic’ domes and stilted wooden cabins sit in a remote valley between Santiago and the Atacama Desert and were the brainchild of local astronomer Esteban Zarate. The camp is surrounded by a rugged, lunar-like landscape that’s perfect for mountain-biking and horse riding by day. By night, the sky takes centre stage: learn about the heavens on a poolside astronomical tour, then fall asleep gazing at the stars through the open roof of your dome or the glass ceiling of your cabin.
Finca de Arrieta, Lazarote, Canary Islands
This cluster of Mongolian yurts and volcanic-stone cottages is set amongst 3 hectares of mango and peach trees, just a short walk from a sandy beach. The entire finca is off-grid: there are wind turbines and solar panels, along with resident hens who provide eggs for breakfast. But you’ll also find comfortable beds, Balinese furniture, hot showers and fully equipped kitchens to keep the glam staunchly in glamping. It’s great for families, and children will love the pool and stargazing from the door of their yurt.
EcoCamp, Patagonia, Chile
During the day, EcoCamp is the perfect base for wildlife-watching trips, fjord kayaking and spectacular hiking among the iconic granite peaks of the Torres del Paine National Park. After dark, retire to your dome with a hot-water bottle and a lamp, and snuggle under warm blankets in a full-size bed while looking up at the stars through the window in the roof.