If you are wondering where to see the stars in Morocco, this post may help you. We give you general indications and show you specific places where you can do this activity, as spectacular for the beauty of what is observed as for the atmosphere of disconnection that goes with it. Take good note and enjoy one of the best skies in the world.
In any case, you should know that Morocco is a good place for astronomical tourism, since it has very extensive places where light pollution is almost nonexistent. In addition, its climatology is characterized by the scarcity of clouds, so you will most likely enjoy a clear sky during your trip.
Sahara desert, ‘astronomical paradise
There is no doubt that the best place to see the stars in Morocco is the Sahara desert: because of the very low population density and the zero probability of rainfall. In addition, large areas of this desert lack natural elevations of the terrain, except for some dunes, facilitating the vision of the entire celestial vault.
The only element that can work against you is a sandstorm that forms unexpectedly or an uncomfortable haze in the air. However, this is a rare phenomenon.
Of the innumerable corners of the Sahara in Morocco, the one that is most famous is Merzouga . This locality has the experience, professionals and infrastructure to receive visitors, and in its vicinity there are several desert camps where you can enjoy a full astronomical experience.
But you may be interested in other less touristically exploited corners. For example, the dunes of Ouzina, where the only Starlight-certified site is located : the riad Ouzina. Let’s remember that these certifications recognize the optimal natural conditions for stargazing.
And although it does not have this certification, another place very visited by stargazing lovers is M’Hamid, much further south, in the Draa Valley, where the quietness adds a plus of charm to stargazing.
Agafay, a desert more at hand and well endowed
All the desert sites listed above are located south of the Atlas Mountains. However, there is another interesting option for those who have less time and are looking for a quality astronomical experience from Marrakech: the Agafay desert. This desert, of rocky and lunar aspect, is a common excursion from this city, as we indicated in this other post.
And here you will find Berber campsites or ecolodges which are used not only for accommodation, but also for activities such as stargazing. In addition, the proximity of Marrakech favors the availability of expert astronomy instructors, capable of organizing this type of activities with telescopes and other equipment.
Giant telescopes and astronomical societies
While astronomical observation in the desert is a unique experience, fans of this activity can also enjoy other proposals in the city or in other natural environments.
For example, another good place to see the stars in Morocco is the Oukaimeden Observatory, located in this town in the Middle Atlas Mountains. There is the TRAPPIST-NORTE, a spectacular robotic reflecting telescope in a facility that, although used for research, is also open to public outreach and, therefore, to external visits. To do so, it is necessary to contact the observatory itself.
Finally, a more convenient option for urbanites is the Atlas Golf in Marrakech. Although this name refers to its main activity, the golf course, it is a sports and leisure complex where there is also a cultural center that has a small but interesting astronomical observatory available to users, which has the possibility to enjoy a wide range of activities.elescope 600 mm T600 – Valmeca.
