Top spots for witnessing lunar and solar eclipses.

Just a heads-up: a solar eclipse occurs when the moon obscures the sun, casting a shadow on Earth. Conversely, a lunar eclipse takes place when Earth blocks sunlight from reaching the moon. These events typically occur in pairs, about two weeks apart, in either sequence.

Then there's the total eclipse: a stunning alignment of the Earth, moon, and sun, plunging either the sun or moon into profound darkness. This breathtaking spectacle, happening roughly every two and a half years, creates the magnificent ring-of-fire effect known as the umbra.

When's the best time to book for the eclipse?

The total solar eclipse in April 2024 is projected to attract over four million visitors to the US, generating significant global media attention and igniting excitement for the upcoming eclipses in 2025 and 2026. With their paths already mapped out, booking in advance is essential for securing affordable flights and accommodations.

Yearly solar eclipse observable from South America.

Date: October 2nd, 2024

Reservations start: Immediately

Remote locations in Argentina and Chile, including the stunning Easter Island, are ideal for viewing. However, they require long-distance travel and can be costly. Make your reservations as early as possible.

A total lunar eclipse can be seen across the Pacific, the Americas, Western Europe, and Western Africa.

Date: March 14th, 2025

Reservation period: December 2023 to January 2024

Your travel choices span a vast area, connecting coastlines on both sides of the Atlantic. This provides ample time to arrange flights and accommodations, whether you’re traveling internationally or domestically.

A total solar eclipse will be visible in Greenland, Iceland, Spain, Russia, and parts of Portugal.

Date: August 12th, 2026

Booking period: Now until mid-2025

Europe's first solar eclipse in 27 years is generating significant excitement. With a wide range of locations (including cruises) to choose from, be sure to secure your plans without delay.

Top 5 locations to witness the Annual Solar Eclipse on October 2nd, 2024.

The last eclipse of 2024 is a significant event, with South America being the prime location for viewing. The ring of fire is anticipated to last up to 7 minutes and 25 seconds in some regions—about two and a half minutes longer than the October 2023 eclipse over the US. This makes it a worthy travel experience.

Cochrane, Chile

Beginning at 6:59 PM local time and reaching its peak at 7:01 PM (when it will obscure 94.3% of the sun), the 2024 solar eclipse will cast a shadow over the small town of Cochrane. There are few places better suited for witnessing this spectacle.

Nestled at the edge of Chile's northern icefields, Cochrane is a natural gem located near the Baker River. With plenty of activities, accommodations, and breathtaking scenery, this Gaucho town is a must-see destination.

Easter Island, Chile

A bucket list experience meets a bucket list destination. Relax and enjoy the solar phenomenon beneath a world-famous moai statue. It kicks off at 12:23 PM, with the ring of fire appearing at 2:04 PM. The next solar eclipse won’t grace Easter Island for another 300 years—don’t miss out!

Perito Moreno National Park, Argentina

Nestled in Argentina’s Santa Cruz province along the mountainous Chilean border, Perito Moreno National Park is a vast and untamed wilderness. It also lies along the eclipse path, enhancing its already breathtaking landscapes with an ethereal quality.

Venture into the wild for the eclipse's 3:59 PM commencement and prepare for the 5:21 PM peak, when the ring of fire will shine for over six minutes. The local weather can be unpredictable, but conditions are generally driest in the east.

Puerto Deseado, Argentina

East of Argentina, where it meets the Atlantic, lies the charming fishing village of Puerto Deseado along the Deseado estuary. Encircled by reserves, it boasts a rich and distinctive biodiversity that makes it stand out even in Patagonia.

On October 2nd, the skies here are likely to be clearer than in many inland areas. The eclipse will begin at 4:06 PM, appearing low in the sky at about 20 degrees above Argentina's northwest coast. The ring of fire will enchant viewers at 5:27 PM, lasting approximately three and a half minutes.

Puerto San Julián, Argentina

Located about 200 miles south along the Atlantic Coast, Puerto San Julián is a small town nestled in a natural harbor. It was here that Ferdinand Magellan wintered during his first circumnavigation of the globe in 1520, referring to the local inhabitants as Patagonians.

This location serves as a flexible eclipse viewing spot. Well-maintained roads allow you to select your vantage point, whether you prefer a central view or one at the edge. The partial eclipse starts at 4:03 PM, with the ring of fire appearing at 5:24 PM and lasting a full five minutes and 12 seconds.

Top 5 locations to witness the Total Lunar Eclipse on March 14th, 2025

This extensive event will stretch across North, Central, and South America, even crossing the Pacific Ocean to reach the western edges of Europe and Africa. From the US to Ireland, and Mexico to Morocco, your options for witnessing the lunar eclipse in 2025 are as expansive as the moon itself. Here are our five favorites.

Casablanca, Morocco

Morocco’s most renowned city is also its most contemporary. A bustling port draped in white, Casablanca features a skyline dominated by the towering 700-foot minaret of the Hassan II Mosque. This architectural marvel rises dramatically against the ocean, providing a stunning backdrop for eclipse viewing.

The partial eclipse will commence at 5:10 AM, with the moon positioned just 19° above the western horizon. A little over an hour later, at 6:26 AM, the total eclipse begins, causing the moon to vanish in a rare and spectacular moonset.

New York City, New York

If you're planning to stay up all night for the eclipse, choose a location that matches your energy. Visiting the Big Apple to witness this natural phenomenon may seem unexpected, but it allows for a night full of excitement.

On March 13th, head to Williamsburg for dinner and drinks. As midnight approaches, stroll to the waterfront for unobstructed views of the sky (weather permitting). The total eclipse will begin at 2:26 AM, turning the moon a striking blood red and lasting just over an hour.

Honolulu, Hawaii

With warm breezes, perfect waves, and humpback whales within sight, it's easy to see why March is peak season in Honolulu. But the excitement doesn't have to stop when the sun sets.

The skies above O‘ahu are likely to be clear in March—ideal for viewing the lunar eclipse. Stay in the city and join an eclipse celebration on Waikiki Beach, or venture inland on the Makapu‘u Lighthouse Trail for an unbeatable vantage point.

Lisbon, Portugal

The seven hills of Lisbon form the heart of the city, nourished by the Rio Tejo. Each hill boasts its own distinct character, shaped by centuries of history, making it an ideal spot for eclipse watching.

March is a shoulder season, meaning lower prices and mild temperatures. Spend your days exploring or seeking shade in the Alto and Alfama neighborhoods. As night falls, make your way to the beautifully developed waterfront to enjoy the lunar spectacle.

Montréal, Quebec, Canada

While March may still be cold in Montréal, it’s not too chilly to spend a few hours at night watching the eclipse. With winter giving way to spring, there's a good chance for crisp, clear skies.

Recognized as one of North America's most walkable cities, wandering through Montréal feels like a journey through the streets of Paris. Explore the Basilique Notre-Dame, stroll through Parc du Mont-Royal, and indulge in pastries and excellent coffee—essential for staying alert during the nighttime event.

Top 5 locations to view the Total Solar Eclipse on August 12th, 2026

The last total solar eclipse in Europe occurred on August 11, 1999, creating a buzz for the next one. However, some locations have been waiting even longer; Iceland, for instance, hasn’t experienced totality since 1954, and its capital hasn’t seen it since 1433.

Reykjavik, Iceland

Taking a road trip into Iceland’s interior may make you feel like you’ve landed on the moon. For a quick escape back to civilization, Reykjavik is always available.

Iceland will be the nearest location to the maximum eclipse just outside Breiðafjörður Bay, but Reykjavik offers easier access. At 5:48 PM, the city will be plunged into darkness for just over a minute during totality.

If you’re fortunate, you might tick off another astrotourism experience. Late August heralds the beginning of aurora season; the Northern Lights are a sight you won’t want to miss.

Snæfellsjökull National Park, Iceland

For a truly otherworldly experience, journey to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and its breathtaking Snæfellsjökull National Park. A prime location for watching the Northern Lights, expect crowds (though there’s ample space to enjoy the view).

With bubbling volcanoes, grumbling puffins, and glistening black rocks, the eclipse perfectly complements this stunning landscape. This is the longest duration of totality available anywhere, lasting a remarkable two minutes and ten seconds.

Scoresby Sund, Greenland

To the west of Iceland, massive Greenland also falls within the path of the 2026 total solar eclipse. Scoresby Sund, located on its east coast above the Arctic Circle, boasts the largest fjord system in the world, stretching approximately 220 miles inland.

What could be more spectacular than experiencing totality while drifting on a boat in one of its many iceberg-laden bays? The eclipse will reach its peak at 4:33 PM and will last just under two minutes.

Palma de Mallorca, Spain

Mallorca is a classic summer hotspot and will be bustling on eclipse day. There are ample spots to secure the perfect view, whether you prefer a beach, a mountain, or a cliffside bar.

The skies are expected to be brilliantly blue and cloudless. For the clearest view, head to the peaks of the Serra de Tramuntana. The eclipse reaches its peak at 8:31 PM, with the sun just 2.5° above the horizon, transitioning into a striking crescent before vanishing at 8:50 PM.

A Coruña, Spain

Located in Galicia’s northwestern corner, the port city of A Coruña contrasts sharply with Mallorca. Often missed by tourists, it serves as a vibrant cultural and commercial center, opening the door to one of Spain’s most enchanting regions.

A Coruña will experience the most significant solar eclipse in Spain, beginning at 8:27 PM, positioned 12° above the horizon. For the best views, head to the Torre de Hércules, the Roman lighthouse believed to be the oldest in the world, offering uninterrupted sightlines.