Insider's Guide to Eclipse Travel

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Advisor - Heather Sandusky

Travel Advisor

Heather Sandusky

A cruise ship at sea with a total solar eclipse in the sky during day

Image courtesy of Holland America

Chasing a total solar eclipse is as much a bucket-list moment as it is an opportunity to explore far-flung destinations. The next few years offer some of the best opportunities to witness this celestial show in all corners of the world. Wander Andalusian hill towns, get lost in the Medinas of Morocco, or drive through Australia’s Outback for land-based viewing. For a different perspective, set sail to watch the skies darken off Iceland’s coast, in the Moroccan waters, or along Egypt’s Nile River.

Eclipse travel combines once-in-a-lifetime wonder with cultural adventures to talk about for years to come. Read on to discover when to see the next total solar eclipses, along with where to stay and what to do.

Need to know

A rooftop terrace with tables and chairs, city in the background, and the sun setting on the horizon

Image courtesy of Hotel Ercilla de Bilbao, Autograph Collection

Planning eclipse travel takes more than marking the date. Book well ahead to avoid sell-outs, watch weather patterns, and plan around crowds. Check time zones so you’re aligned for those fleeting minutes of totality. On the day of, arrive early and set up chairs, water, snacks, and shade to make the long wait not only comfortable, but as memorable as the eclipse itself.

Advance planning: Cruise lines, guided tours, and hotels begin selling years out. Some hotels may require a minimum stay. Plan as far in advance as possible.

Ideal length of stay: While the solar eclipse lasts a matter of minutes, plan to visit one place for at least three to four days. Combine regions or do a destination deep dive with a trip of one week or more. Eclipse cruises are sailings from a few days up to one month at sea.

Transportation: Book car rentals, train tickets, or guided tours well in advance. Expect heavier traffic and arrive early to secure parking. Use public transport to avoid road congestion. Yacht and catamaran charters can provide an exclusive eclipse viewing event.

What to wear: It’s essential to wear ISO-certified eclipse glasses or solar viewers to look directly at the sun. Pack for the local climate and time of day with comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes, with extra layers for altitudes, breezy spots, and winter settings. Be sure to also keep in mind that the air can cool by around 10 degrees during totality. 

Positioning: Positioning is everything for maximum length of totality. Difference in altitude could reduce horizon haze but might mean windy mountain conditions. More remote locations may offer better visibility but lack infrastructure and resources. Study maps to avoid valleys, forests, or urban skylines that could obscure viewpoints.

Weather: Mother Nature is anything but predictable. Research historical weather data and cloud cover to help choose the best location. Look at the time of day to avoid early morning coastal fog or mountain top cloud cover. Track forecasted weather and leading up to the event, and be flexible on the day of to reposition for clearer skies.

2026 Eclipse: Spain, Balearic Islands & Iceland

wildflower dotted landscape with green mountains and the sun setting behind them

Date: August 12, 2026

Time: The eclipse will peak around 5:45 pm in Iceland, and just before sunset around 8:30 pm across Spain and the Balearic Islands.

The 2026 total solar eclipse sweeps across Europe, from Iceland’s volcanic plains and glaciers to Spain’s Mediterranean coast. Many cruises are sold out, as are hotels in the path of totality. Opt for hotels outside of the totality track, but be prepared to drive or arrange transport to viewing points. There are also some cruises still available, but availability is limited.

Spain

A medium sized modern cruise ship sailing in blue ocean waters during day

Image courtesy of Explora Journeys

Towns along Galicia’s rugged coast, villages in Castile and León, and vineyards across La Rioja will offer a variety of viewpoints. Bigger cities like Madrid or Barcelona offer a larger range of hotel and transportation options. Cruises will be positioned off the coast for optimal viewing.

Where to see the eclipse

  • La Coruña (A Coruña): Stroll the seaside promenade to the Roman-era Tower of Hercules lighthouse, relax on crescent-shaped beaches, and savor Galician seafood.

  • Zaragoza: Explore the grand Basílica del Pilar along the Ebro River, wander through Moorish architecture at the Aljafería Palace, and sample Aragonese cuisine.

  • Gijón: A lively Asturian port city where golden beaches meet Roman baths, a historic fishing quarter, and vibrant cultural festivals.

  • Aras de los Olmos: A protected area near Valencia home to an astronomical observatory, mountain village, and easy access to hiking trails.

  • Segovia: Famous for its towering Roman aqueduct, Alcázar castle, and winding lanes that open onto town squares.

  • Burgos: Home to a UNESCO-listed Gothic cathedral, this Castilian city offers medieval monasteries and riverside walks.

Where to stay

URSO Hotel & Spa (Madrid): Situated in central Madrid, this refined hotel combines elegant rooms, a rooftop terrace, and a full-service spa.

  • Fora Reserve perks include a $100 food and beverage or spa credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Hotel Ercilla de Bilbao, Autograph Collection (Bilbao): A chic city stay in the bustling city center, this contemporary hotel offers stylish rooms and a panoramic rooftop bar.

  • Fora’s Marriott LUMINOUS partner perks include a welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Almanac Barcelona (Barcelona): A refined design hotel offering elegant rooms, a rooftop terrace and pool, and an on-site restaurant highlighting seasonal Catalan flavors.

  • Fora Reserve perks include a $125 food and beverage credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Cruising the eclipse

Royal Caribbean (Liberty of the Seas, August 7–16): Roundtrip from Southampton, with stops across Northern Spain, and solar eclipse viewing off the coast of La Coruña.

  • Fora Perks include a specialty dining experience for balcony cabins and above, plus a spa treatment for Junior Suites and above on select sailings.

Cunard Cruises (Queen Anne, August 9–16): Sophisticated, classic cruising from Southampton, with stops in France and Spain, and a seatime eclipse after leaving La Coruña.

  • Fora Perks include up to $600 Onboard Credit per stateroom on select sailings.

Explora Journeys (Explora III, August 10–17): Yacht-inspired journey from Lisbon to Southampton, with the eclipse visible while departing the port of La Coruña.

  • Fora Perks include a EUR 300 Journey Experience Credit per stateroom on select voyages. Virtuoso Voyages Hosted Benefits also available on select sailings.

The Balearic Islands

A wooden thatched roof balcony with outdoor furniture overlooking an oceanside resort as the sun sets on the horizon

Image courtesy of Six Senses Ibiza

Off Spain’s eastern coast, the Balearic Islands offer turquoise coves, breezy seaside resorts, rustic villages, and Mediterranean flavors. Mallorca serves as an ideal hub near the center of the eclipse path, with Ibiza just off to the side of the track. Menorca and Formentera rest along the edge of totality.

Where to see the eclipse

  • Mallorca: Coastal villages like Deià, Sant Elm, and Sóller offer sunset views with seaside cafés, lively markets, and rugged cliffs to provide stunning vantage points.

  • Ibiza: Watch the sun sink behind the iconic Es Vedrà rock formation from Cala d’Hort, or follow cliffside paths above Cala Vadella’s sheltered bay for serene vistas.

  • Menorca: Sunset views at Cap d’Artrutx are famous on the island, while Pont d’en Gil’s dramatic natural rock bridge offers a unique foreground.

  • Formentera: Cala Saona’s calm, shallow waters create an intimate sunset setting, while the 18th century Torre de La Gavina offers a secluded, clifftop atmosphere.

Where to stay

Finca Serena Mallorca (Mallorca): A serene adults-only retreat set among olive groves and vineyards blending rustic charm with modern luxury.

  • Fora Reserve perks include a $100 food and beverage credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Can Bordoy Grand House Hotel GL Preferred Hotel (Mallorca): An intimate, garden-framed retreat in Palma’s historic center, featuring spacious suites and courtyard pool.

  • Fora’s Preferred Platinum partner perks include a $100 hotel credit, welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Six Senses Ibiza (Ibiza): A wellness-focused escape on the serene northern coast combining sleek suites, beachfront caves, farm-to-table dining, and a holistic spa.

  • Fora’s IHG Destined partner perks include a $100 hotel credit, welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Cruising the eclipse

Princess Cruises (Enchanted Princess, August 4–18): Classic cruising, roundtrip from Civitavecchia (Rome) across the Med and Adriatic, with the eclipse occurring near Mallorca.

  • Fora Perks include up to $100 shipboard credit per stateroom on select sailings.

Princess Cruises (Sun Princess): Several 7-, 14-, and 21-night Mediterranean cruise options available, with this modern ship positioning itself off the Balearic Islands for the sunset eclipse.

  • Fora Perks include up to $100 shipboard credit per stateroom on select sailings.

Virgin Voyages (Scarlet Lady, August 10–22): Adults-only sailing from Barcelona to Civitavecchia (Rome), with the solar eclipse viewing off the shores of Ibiza.

  • Fora Perks include up to $400 Sailor Loot per stateroom.

Iceland

A small expedition ship in icy turquoise waters with snow capped mountains in the background during day

Image courtesy of Rui Seabra and Lindblad Expeditins

Iceland’s westernmost fjords, volcanic plains, and fishing villages will offer dramatic backdrops. The weather can shift rapidly, with sun, wind, clouds, and rain all possible in a single day. The eclipse’s centerline will largely miss the mainland, so cruises will offer the best vantage points.

Where to see the eclipse

  • Reykjavík: Stroll through colorful streets, waterfront promenades, and stop at the iconic Hallgrímskirkja church. 

  • Snæfellsnes Peninsula: Explore the glacier-capped Snæfellsjökull National Park, the black sands of Djúpalónssandur, or the fishing town of Ólafsvík.

  • Westfjords: Experience dramatic scenery around Ísafjörður, spot puffins at Látrabjarg, and hike to Straumnes Lighthouse in one of Iceland’s most remote regions.

  • Reykjanes Peninsula: A volcanic landscape where fishing villages like Garður and Sandgerði set the scene along the rugged coastline.

Where to stay

The Reykjavik EDITION (Reykjavík): A sleek, design-forward hotel in the heart of Reykjavík offering panoramic city and bay views from the rooftop terrace and bar.

  • Fora’s Marriott STARS partner perks include a $100 hotel credit, welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.

The Retreat at Blue Lagoon Iceland (Grindavík): Adjacent to the famous geothermal lagoon, this exclusive property offers direct access to mineral-rich waters and spa experiences.

ION Adventure Hotel, Nesjavellir, a Member of Design Hotels (Nesjavellir): Set amid lava fields and rugged highlands, this modern boutique hotel is just outside Reykjavík.

Cruising the eclipse

Virgin Voyages (Valiant Lady, August 5–20): Adults-only voyage roundtrip from Portsmouth to Dublin, Glasgow, and Reykjavik, with the eclipse observed at sea near Iceland.

  • Fora Perks include up to $400 Sailor Loot per stateroom.

National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions (NG Endurance, August 5–16): A small-ship expedition roundtrip from Reykjavík for remote exploration and eclipse viewing in Greenland.

  • Fora Perks include up to $200 onboard credit per stateroom.

Azamara (Azamara Journey, August 8–26): Venturing from Reykjavík to Montreal, the eclipse will be seen at sea between Iceland and Greenland, with ports of call in both.

  • Fora Perks include up to $200 shipboard credit per stateroom on select voyages. Virtuoso Voyages Hosted Benefits also available on select sailings.

2027 Eclipse: Egypt, Morocco & Southern Spain

footprints in rolling desert sand dunes during day

Date: August 2, 2027

Time: Egypt’s midday eclipse timing peaks around 1 pm. Expect the eclipse to peak in Morocco’s late morning, around 9:45 am, and around 10:45 am in Southern Spain.

Dubbed the “eclipse of the century,” the 2027 path will be paired with hot temperatures and large crowds. The south of Egypt offers the best chance of clear skies above ancient temples and desert landscapes. Morocco will provide natural and historic medina backdrops, while Spain will offer coastal towns and Moorish architecture. River and ocean cruises, guided tours, and hotels are on sale now, or in the coming months, making it the perfect time to start planning.

Egypt

resort pool with palm trees along a river during day

Image courtesy of Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Aswan

Egypt’s arid climate and the eclipse’s midday timing are setting the stage for unobstructed viewing potential. Luxor will experience over six minutes of totality, the longest on land in 36 years and the longest until 2114. While Cairo serves as Egypt’s primary entry point, the city will only see partial totality, so plan a multi-city itinerary to witness the full solar eclipse.

Where to see the eclipse

  • Luxor: Wander ancient sites like the Temple of Karnak and the Valley of the Kings with sweeping horizons for totality.

  • Aswan: Explore Nubian heritage, palm-dotted islands, and views from the High Dam or Philae Temple for striking backdrops to the eclipse.

  • Red Sea resorts: Turquoise waters, coral reefs, and desert landscapes of Marsa Shagra, Marsa Nakari, and Wadi Lahami offer prime seaside locations.

  • Siwa Oasis: A remote desert jewel where palm groves, natural springs, and mud-brick villages meet traditional Berber culture.

Where to stay

Sofitel Winter Palace Luxor (Luxor): Set along the Nile’s banks, this retreat blends vibrant gardens and poolside charm near Luxor’s iconic historical sites.

  • Fora’s Accor Preferred partner perks include a $100 property credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Al Moudira Hotel (Luxor): An intimate boutique retreat with Andalusian-inspired courtyards, charming suites, and personalized service.

  • Fora’s Relais & Châteaux partner perks include breakfast daily. 

Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Aswan (Aswan): A storied Victorian palace on the banks of the Nile, blending historic grandeur with modern elegance.

  • Fora’s Accor Preferred partner perks include a $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Cruising the eclipse

Abercrombie & Kent (Sun Boat IV, an A&K Sanctuary, July 31–August 7): Weeklong Nile River cruise on this luxe 38-cabin vessel with top deck cabanas to view the eclipse from.

Holland America (Oosterdam): Choose from two Mediterranean itineraries, 14 or 28 days, each stopping in Greece, Italy, and Tunisia, with eclipse viewing off the coast of Egypt.

  • Fora Perks include a $100 shipboard credit per stateroom on select sailings.

Seabourn (Seabourn Ovation): Ultra-luxury small ship with four 14- to 37-day itineraries to choose from, calling in Tunisia, Italy, and Malta, with the eclipse viewed off the Egyptian coast.

  • Virtuoso Voyages Hosted Benefits also available on select sailings.

Morocco

large modern white and red cruise ship at sea during day

Image courtesy of Virgin Voyages

Northern Morocco offers rugged peaks, verdant valleys, and bustling medinas as striking backdrops for the celestial event. From the coastal city of Tangier, to the “Blue City” of Chefchaouen, it’s easy to combine the eclipse with an immersive Moroccan experience. Stay outside the eclipse’s path in Casablanca, Rabat, or Fes for big city energy, scenic vistas, and cultural landmarks.

Where to see the eclipse

  • Tangier: Wander the Grand Socco plaza, historic Kasbah, and whitewashed lanes with views stretching across the Strait of Gibraltar toward Spain.

  • Chefchaouen: Known as the “Blue City,” its steep, cobbled streets are lined with vividly painted buildings framed by the Rif Mountains.

  • Tetouan: This gateway city offers colorful souks, a UNESCO-listed Andalusian-style medina, and easy access to Mediterranean beaches.

  • Ouezzane: A historic town set amid rolling hills, renowned for its olive groves, traditional markets, and spiritual heritage.

Where to stay

Fairmont Tazi Palace Tangier (Tangier): On a hillside overlooking the city, this historic palace exudes timeless charm with shaded courtyards, elegant rooms, and tranquil spa.

  • Fora’s Accor Preferred partner perks include a $100 property credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Riad Fès (Fes): An opulent riad in the Medina showcasing intricate Moroccan craftsmanship, tranquil courtyards, and rooftop terrace with sweeping city views.

  • Fora Perks include a $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Four Seasons Hotel Casablanca (Casablanca): A contemporary oceanfront retreat steps from the Corniche, with airy rooms, a spa, and dining that highlights Atlantic flavors.

  • When you book Four Seasons with Fora, you’ll enjoy exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner benefits.

Cruising the eclipse

Holland America Line (Nieuw Statendam, July 10–August 7): Roundtrip from Rotterdam, explore Denmark, the UK, Spain, and Portugal, with eclipse viewing off the coast of Gibraltar.

  • Fora Perks include a $100 shipboard credit per stateroom on select sailings.

Celebrity Cruises (Celebrity Xcel, July 31–August 7): Modern luxury ship sailing roundtrip from Barcelona to ports in Spain and Morocco, with eclipse viewing at sea near Tangier.

  • Fora Perks include up to $200 onboard credit per stateroom on select sailings.

Virgin Voyages (Resilient Lady, July 28–August): Roundtrip from Barcelona, with stops across Spain, Madeira, and the eclipse occurring while docked in Tangier.

  • Fora Perks include up to $400 Sailor Loot per stateroom.

Southern Spain

pool with grey sun loungers and white umbrellas with a cityscape in the background during day

Image courtesy of Nobu Hotel Marbella

Along the coast, Marbella, Cádiz, and Málaga will see up to five minutes of totality. Consider staying outside the eclipse path in historical cities like Sevilla or Granada. Cruises settling in just off the coast also make for a great mixture of relaxing vacation and eclipse excitement.

Where to see the eclipse

  • Marbella: Wander the stylish old town’s whitewashed streets, relax on golden beaches, and explore the yacht-filled marina.

  • Málaga: Visit the Alcazaba fortress, Picasso Museum, and bustling markets. Stroll along the beaches or sip cocktails on rooftop terraces with sweeping city and harbor views.

  • Cádiz: Explore the cobblestone streets of the old town, from the golden-domed Catedral de Cádiz to Plaza de las Flores and the waterfront Paseo de Canalejas.

  • Tarifa: Known as the windsurfing and kiteboarding capital of Europe, Tarifa combines rugged beaches with a historic old town.

  • Gibraltar: This British Overseas Territory on Spain’s southern coast offers views across the Strait of Gibraltar, historic fortifications, and Barbary macaques roaming freely.

Where to stay

Marbella Club Hotel Golf Resort & Spa (Marbella): A storied beachfront retreat blending Andalusian heritage with refined luxury, a world-class spa, and an exclusive golf course.

  • Fora Perks include a $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Nobu Hotel Marbella (Marbella): A stylish, adults-oriented escape centered on dining and nightlife, with sleek suites and access to a private beach club.

  • Fora Perks include a $100 food and beverage credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Palacio Solecio (Málaga): Set in a restored 18th-century palace in the heart of old town, this boutique stay combines Andalusian elegance with modern comfort.

  • Fora Reserve perks include a $50-$100 food and beverage credit, welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Cruising the eclipse

Atlas Ocean Voyages (World Traveller, July 27–August 4): Luxe-adventure style sailing from Barcelona to Lisbon, with eclipse viewing at sea near the Strait of Gibraltar.

  • Fora Perks include a $400 shipboard credit per stateroom.

Princess Cruises (Enchanted Princess, July 24–August 7): Observing the eclipse off the coast of Spain, this roundtrip voyage from Civitavecchia (Rome) stops across Italy and Spain.

  • Fora Perks include up to $100 shipboard credit per stateroom on select sailings.

Celebrity Cruises (Celebrity Ascent, July 26–August 6): Southern Mediterranean viewing at sea, roundtrip from Rome (Civitavecchia), with stops in Sardinia, Sicily, and Spain.

  • Fora Perks include up to $200 onboard credit per stateroom on select sailings.

2028 Eclipse: Australia & New Zealand

A remote lodge on a peninsula next to a lake with snow capped and green mountains around during day with clouds

Image courtesy of Blanket Bay

Date: July 22, 2028

Time: Arcing across Australia, peak eclipse timing ranges from 10:45 am in the Kimberly to 2 pm in Sydney. Peak totality across New Zealand’s areas will be around 4:15 pm.

Late July marks winter in the Southern Hemisphere. In Australia, Sydney offers a rare city backdrop, while remote Outback areas deliver the best viewing potential. New Zealand’s cities and mountains make for easy access but have a higher chance of cloud cover. Expect crisp air, snowy mountains, and temperatures that can drop below freezing at night. Tour and cruise offerings are just starting to be put together, making it a prime time to begin planning.

Australia

A rooftop terrace lined with white chairs overlooking harbor and cityscape during day

Image courtesy of InterContinental Sydney

Remote areas across the Outback provide wide horizons and clearer skies, but offer fewer accommodations. The Kimberly region of Western Australia offers the best weather prospects and length of totality, along with parts of the Northern Territory and Queensland. Sydney is unmatched for accessibility and a prime party atmosphere, but expect a greater risk of clouds.

Where to see the eclipse

  • Sydney: Explore the iconic Opera House and Harbour Bridge, stroll along Bondi and Manly beaches, or dive into lively neighborhoods such as Surry Hills for its dining scene and Darlinghurst for buzzing nightlife.

  • New South Wales: Bourke offers historic pubs, local museums, and an Outback escape along the Darling River, while Dubbo is home to river walks and regional art galleries.

  • The Kimberley (Western Australia): Kununurra, Wyndham, and Lake Argyle are gateways to wide horizons and ancient rock formations in Purnululu National Park.

  • Northern Territory: Tennant Creek combines outback charm with historical sites, while the Devils Marbles provide striking granite formations.

  • Queensland: Thargomindah and Bedourie offer a mix of Outback desert, small-town hospitality, and a sense of isolation.

Where to stay

Four Seasons Hotel Sydney: This harborside classic offers prime views of the Opera House with sleek rooms, a vibrant lobby bar, and an outdoor pool.

  • When you book Four Seasons with Fora, you’ll enjoy exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner benefits.

Shangri-La Sydney: Perched high above The Rocks, known for its dramatic floor-to-ceiling harbour views and one of the best sky-facing restaurants in the city. 

  • Fora’s Shangri-La partner perks include a $50-$100 hotel credit, welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.

InterContinental Sydney: Set in a restored heritage building by Circular Quay, this refined hotel blends historic architecture with modern interiors and harbor views.

  • Fora’s IHG Destined partner perks include a $100 hotel credit, welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.

New Zealand

White sofa on glass walled balcony overlooking a lake and green mountains during day

Image courtesy of Rosewood Matakauri

The eclipse will unfold against alpine peaks, glacial lakes, and cities like Queenstown and Dunedin. Winter months also mean it’s a good time to go skiing, explore glaciers like Franz Josef, or visit one of the area’s many spas. Despite the colder weather, large-scale festivals and community gatherings are being planned across the South Island.

Where to see the eclipse

  • Queenstown: Wander the lakefront, browse boutiques and cafés downtown, and take the Skyline Gondola up Bob’s Peak for views of the mountains and Lake Wakatipu.

  • Central Otago: From Ranfurly’s art deco charm to Alexandra’s riverside walks and Roxburgh’s historic orchards, the area blends outdoor adventure with local culture.

  • Fiordland National Park: Cruise Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound, fjords that combine alpine peaks and water-based exploration for a uniquely immersive eclipse perspective.

  • Dunedin: Explore Victorian and Edwardian architecture, and take in sweeping harbor views that set the stage for an unforgettable eclipse experience.

Where to stay

Sofitel Queenstown Hotel & Spa (Queenstown): Set on the edge of Lake Wakatipu combining contemporary elegance, spacious rooms, and a lakeside spa.

  • Fora’s Accor Preferred partner perks include a $100 property credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Rosewood Matakauri (Queenstown): This luxury retreat offers a secluded lakeside setting framed by the Remarkables mountains with floor-to-ceiling windows and private decks.

  • Fora’s Rosewood Elite partner perks include a welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Blanket Bay (Glenorchy): A classic New Zealand lodge perched along Lake Wakatipu’s shores, Blanket Bay blends rustic charm, five-star service, and guided alpine excursions.

  • Fora Perks include a $100 food & beverage credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.

History and culture

ancient temple columns with hieroglyphs during day

For millennia, eclipses have stirred awe and stories across cultures. Rituals and beliefs born of these moments still echo where the next great ones will unfold. In Iceland, Viking-era sagas tied to Norse cosmic balance endure. Spain’s archaeological sites carry Roman and medieval views of eclipses as omens. Egypt’s temples are etched with hieroglyphs showing eclipses as signs of divine order. Morocco’s traditions speak of pausing or making noise to honor the moment. In Australia, Aboriginal communities link them to ancestral beings. In New Zealand, Māori narratives frame the sun and moon as kin, holding the balance of the natural world.

Cultural celebrations and special events

  • Iceland Eclipse Festival (August 12-15, 2026; Hellissandur, Iceland):  A four-day celebration blending music, fire ceremonies, workshops, stargazing, and science talks.

  • Dunedin eclipse events (July 22, 2028; Dunedin, New Zealand): Led by the Dunedin Astronomical Society, expect eclipse-day programming and public science talks.

  • Australia eclipse celebrations (July 2028; nationwide): Outback towns and coastal villages are developing programming around Indigenous storytelling and astronomy.

If not eclipse travel…

stars and constellations in the sky above a rocky mountain desert landscape at night

From desert plateaus to polar frontiers, these destinations are great celestial alternatives to pair stargazing with beautiful landscapes.

Atacama Desert, Chile: Crystal-clear skies, cutting-edge observatories, and dramatic desert scenery, all complemented by boutique lodges.

Namibia: Towering dunes and remote camps set the stage for extraordinary stargazing over vast, untamed terrain.

Arizona and Utah, USA: Dark-sky reserves and sculpted red rock canyons create unforgettable backdrops for glowing sunsets and star-filled night skies

Alaska (Fairbanks and Denali): Glacier valleys, rugged peaks, and aurora borealis displays offer a mix of wilderness adventure and cosmic wonder.

Hawai‘i (Big Island): Otherworldly lava flows, rare sand beaches, and Mauna Kea’s observatories make this island a striking blend of astronomy and tropical beauty.

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