Get Ready for the 2027 Solar Eclipse Adventure
On August 2, 2027, the world will witness the longest total solar eclipse in 87 years. For travelers and skywatchers alike, this rare celestial event opens the door to once-in-a-lifetime experiences. The best views await in parts of Egypt, Spain, North Africa, and the Arabian Peninsula. Whether you’re drawn to ancient cities, iconic film locations, or stunning deserts, these 10 eclipse-themed journeys blend science with adventure.
1. Stargazing in Siwa Oasis, Egypt
For those seeking silence and stars, the Siwa Oasis offers serenity and sky. This nine-day tour with Astro Trails, from July 27 to August 4, 2027, takes you deep into Egypt’s Western Desert. Witness 5 minutes and 25 seconds of totality near the Libyan border, far from crowds. The trip also includes visits to Cairo’s landmarks, Alexandria’s coast, and the WWII battlefields of El Alamein.
2. Totality in Egypt’s “Lost Golden City”
Skip the busy temples and instead watch the eclipse from Aten, a 3,000-year-old sun-worshipping city built by Pharaoh Akhenaten. Discovered in 2020 and still closed to the general public, this ancient marvel near Luxor offers a rare viewing experience. Led by renowned archaeologist Zahi Hawass, this luxury tour grants access to hidden history — with a perfect view of the solar eclipse.
3. Star Wars Meets the Stars in Tunisia
Blend sci-fi with solar science on an eight-day Tunisian desert journey. Explore medinas, Roman ruins, and “Star Wars” filming spots like Mos Espa and Lars’ homestead. The tour concludes at Chaffar Beach, where 5 minutes and 40 seconds of totality await — framed by golden dunes and cinematic nostalgia.
4. Watch with Macaques in Gibraltar
For something truly different, head to the Rock of Gibraltar. While clouds may be a gamble, standing among wild Barbary macaques at sea level on the eastern side offers 4 minutes and 32 seconds of eclipse magic. There are no formal tours yet, but this iconic British outpost is already prepping for eclipse tourism.
5. Birding and Baboons in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia offers a unique mix of wildlife and wonder. The 10-day “Wings and Wonders” tour with Saudi Birding starts in Jeddah, follows the Red Sea coast, and includes a beachfront eclipse view. Afterwards, spot flamingos, gazelles, kingfishers, and hamadryas baboons in lush wadis and mountain deserts. It’s a rich mix of ecology, astronomy, and heritage.
6. Dive into the Red Sea’s Shadow
Prefer the sea? Egypt’s Red Sea coast offers remote beach resorts and coral-rich waters. Resorts like Marsa Shagra, Marsa Nakari, and Wadi Lahami provide between 5 to 6 minutes of totality, with liveaboard options available for scuba lovers. Whether you’re diving or reclining, you’ll enjoy cosmic views in coastal calm.
7. Chase Shadows and Sustainability
Experience an eclipse aligned with a sustainable journey. This 10-day tour combines visits to the SEKEM biodynamic farm near Cairo with stargazing in Bahariya Oasis. Explore the White and Black Deserts, see ancient tombs, and witness totality for over six minutes in this mindful, eco-aware expedition.
8. Spain to Morocco: Tapas and Totality
Want to experience both Europe and Africa? This 13-day cultural tour crosses southern Spain and northern Morocco. Start in Madrid, explore Seville and Córdoba, then sail to Tangier and discover Chefchaouen’s blue medina. From M’diq on Morocco’s Mediterranean coast, enjoy 4 minutes and 51 seconds of total eclipse in a multi-continental adventure.
9. Snap the Sun in Andalucía
Shutterbugs, rejoice. Backcountry Journeys offers a 10-day astrophotography tour through Spain’s Andalucía region. Shoot iconic sites like La Alhambra at golden hour, then focus your lens on the sun’s corona during totality in a quiet Spanish village. It’s a perfect blend of architecture, light, and lunar wonder.
10. Moroccan Medinas and the Moon’s Shadow
Step into a sensory-rich, 14-day adventure across Morocco’s cultural heartlands. This TravelQuest experience begins in Tangier, includes a pre-eclipse briefing, and captures nearly five minutes of totality near Tétouan. Travel through Chefchaouen, Fes, Rabat, Casablanca, and Marrakech with camel rides, community visits, and Atlas Mountain glamping.
One Eclipse, Countless Possibilities
From ancient cities to remote deserts, the 2027 total solar eclipse offers a unique reason to travel, explore, and wonder. Whether you chase it with archaeologists, dive under its shadow, or photograph it from Spain’s countryside, you’ll be part of a rare cosmic moment shared around the globe.
Stay tuned to Maple Wire for more unforgettable travel ideas and celestial journeys.
