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Travellers at the Sydney Opera House in Sydney

Total Solar Eclipse Travel: Dates & Destinations [2026/2028]

Traveller in the Blue Mountains in Australia
Caitlin Spouge

Last Updated 5th August 2026

Travellers at the Sydney Opera House in Sydney

Whether you are totally obsessed with astrology or simply love looking up at a clear night sky, a Total Solar Eclipse is definitely worth travelling for! And we’re super lucky that in the next 2 years, we can experience this phenomenon in some iconic corners of the world. So why not plan a trip inside the solar eclipse path of totality? (We’ll talk about what that means in a bit). You never know, you might already be in one of the special locations. This might just be the best window to see a Total Solar Eclipse in over a decade, so yeah, it’s kinda a big deal. 

What is a Total Solar Eclipse? 

Photograph of a total solar eclipse in which the sun is completely covered by the moon and a glowing halo is around the moon

It’s probably been a little while since you learnt about eclipses, so let’s recap quickly. A total solar eclipse happens when the moon perfectly lines up between the sun and the Earth, casting a pretty epic shadow. For a few minutes, our world is transformed. The moon is blocking the sun, daylight dims and the temperature drops. All you’ll hear is gasps as you look up to see the sun replaced with a glowing halo around a black circle. 

For the best view of the total solar eclipse, you’ve got to plan a trip within the path of totality. We know that sounds like something out of Project Hail Mary, but it really just refers to the narrow band where the Moon’s shadow falls. It’s quite a precise art, because just a few miles out of it, you’ll only catch a partial eclipse. Still pretty cool, but slightly less dramatic.

Space tourism hasn’t quite taken off just yet, but astrotourism is an opportunity to feel the scale of the universe, whilst keeping two feet on the ground. 

When is the 2026 Total Solar Eclipse? 

The next total solar eclipse will happen on Wednesday 12th August 2026. This is the first total solar eclipse visible from Europe since 1999, with some of the best viewing in Iceland, Spain and Portugal. A partial eclipse will also be visible in large parts of Europe, including the UK, as well as in North America and Africa. If you can’t travel this time around, get a taste for the spectacle, and luckily, there’s one next year too! 

Best Places to See the Total Solar Eclipse in 2026 

Iceland

Waterfall in Iceland

Just when you thought Iceland couldn’t get any more beautiful. Watch the eclipse with glaciers and black-sand beaches. The longest duration of totality is just off the coast of Iceland, lasting approximately 2 minutes and 18 seconds. The closer you get to this spot, the longer you can experience the magic. 

The easiest place to see the eclipse in Iceland would be the capital, Reykjavik, expected to last for about a minute at 5:48 pm. Spend the day wandering the colourful streets, learn about Norse mythology, and grab a beer. In the afternoon, either book one of the city's viewing parties, or find a spot where no tall buildings are blocking your view. 

Viewing locations, such as The Westfjords and the Snæfellsjökull Peninsula, combine natural beauty with minimal light pollution, creating an unmatched backdrop in the path of totality. 

The whole of Iceland will experience at least an impressive partial solar eclipse, so you can’t go wrong with a trip there. 

Ibiza, Spain

Group of friends on holiday in Ibiza hugging as they look over the sea and beach

Golden hour + a total solar eclipse? Talk about a photo op! You’ll be directly in the path of totality at sunset, so the sun will slowly disappear as it sits low over the horizon. Eclipses are already very special, but Ibiza’s last total solar eclipse was in 1905 and will not return until 2135. Plus, it coincides perfectly with the Perseid meteor shower that night. Watch stars shoot across the sky from midnight until the early hours of the morning. It doesn’t get more ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ than this.

Spain’s lively island draws in party-goers from across the world, promising long nights of famous DJ sets with dreamy ocean views. Of course, there are plenty of parties to experience the total solar eclipse the Ibiza-way. Beachside bars, boat parties and club crawls are just the start of a trip here. 

By day, shop at vibrant markets, climb medieval stone walls, and swim in hidden coves. Quiet evenings can be just as memorable, and the sunsets here are unmatched (with or without an eclipse). 

When is the 2026 Total Solar Eclipse? 

Okay, so we’re all in agreement we’re travelling to see the total solar eclipse in 2027, right? Astronomers are calling it the event of the century. Mark your calendar for Monday, 2nd August 2027. The path of totality runs from Spain, through Morocco, to Egypt. 

Best Places to See the Total Solar Eclipse in 2027

Luxor, Egypt

Traveller looking out at the pyramids of giza in Egypt

It’s pretty hard to beat this setting. Ancient wonders, stunning scenery, and a chance to experience the eclipse for a whole 6 minutes and 23 seconds. Luxor’s clear blue skies will create optimal viewing, as some of the most iconic attractions in the world temporarily go dark. 

There are endless excuses of why a trip to Luxor is worth it. Whether it’s seeing the Valley of the Kings, sailing in a Felucca down the Nile, or adding in some extra stops to see the Pyramids of Giza - the only remaining ancient wonder of the world. Experience history, surrounded by history! 

Chefchaouen, Morocco

Traveller walking the streets of Chefchaouen in Morocco

Also known as the Blue City, Chefchaouen will be in the total solar eclipse path of totality from around 9:45 am. Viewing spots don’t get more charming than this. Already a bucket list destination, thanks to its striking blue streets and enticing history, the total solar eclipse is merely a great reason to book the trip finally. 

You’ll leave Chefchaouen with more than just aesthetic Instagram stories. Experience Moroccan culture, woven into every experience here. Spend your morning exploring medinas and cafes, before finding an uninterrupted view of the sky. The sun will be well-risen, creating the perfect position to see the total solar eclipse. 

A stop in Chefchaouen is always a must on your Morocco itinerary. With easy access to the Rif Mountains, you’ll witness a completely different side to the Morocco you expect, hiking through forests and chasing waterfalls.

Southern Spain 

Plaza de Toros de La Malagueta in Malaga city in Southern Spain with a view of the ocean

Wondering where you can see the total solar eclipse in Europe? Tarifa, Cadiz and Malaga are the most accessible locations to witness the spectacle. Plus, Southern Spain’s clear sunny skies are perfect for the best view. Beginning at around 10:44 am, enjoy a relaxed morning before the show begins. 

Now you’ve just got to decide which destination to choose. Truth is, you can’t go wrong! Head to Malaga for rich history, a lively arts scene, and golden Mediterranean beaches. Check out Cádiz for authentic cultural spots and sandy beaches next to picturesque castles. Opt for Tarifa for a boho vibe and a consistent wind, perfect for watersports. 

When is the 2028 Total Solar Eclipse? 

If two total solar eclipses in two years weren’t enough, a third total solar eclipse will happen on July 22nd 2028. And it’s called the Great Australian Eclipse! Adventure down under, anyone? 

Best Places to See the Total Solar Eclipse in 2028

Sydney, Australia

Travellers taking a selfie on a sydney harbour cruise on a sunny day with a view of the sydney opera house behind

Few things can make an Aussie crowd fall silent at the exact same moment, but this just might. Sydney will be in the total solar eclipse path of totality for the first time since 1857! Start planning now, because this is going to be a popular one. The moon’s shadow will be cast directly over the one-and-only Sydney Harbour, and the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge will be cast into darkness for approximately 4 minutes. Few things can make an Aussie crowd fall silent at the exact same moment. 

Any backpacker will tell you how Sydney is their absolute favourite city, beloved by its iconic coastal lifestyle and work-life balance that you just can’t resist. Whether you’re travelling for a few weeks or moving here for a Working Holiday, there’s something about Sydney in the sunshine that just makes you never want to leave. 

Why are Total Solar Eclipses So Rare?

Total solar eclipses aren’t as rare as you might think. What is rare is being in the right place to experience one. The shadow that the Moon casts is only ever over a narrow strip of the Earth, and most of that could be the ocean! That’s why it would be incredible to experience a total solar eclipse in Sydney in 2028, after a 171-year wait. 

Solar Eclipse Travel Advice

 

Never look at the sun without certified eclipse glasses

It’s not safe to look at the sun, even with your regular sunglasses, except for the brief moment in which the Moon is completely blocking the Sun. Eclipse glasses or handheld solar viewers must meet the ISO 12312-2 safety standard.

For further safety advice, please do your research and consult official scientific resources, such as this Eclipse Viewing Safety guide provided by NASA.

Plan early 

If you’re travelling to see the total solar eclipse, prime viewing spots will get filled up early. Especially tourist spots like Ibiza and Sydney. Book your accommodation as soon as possible, and pick a spot with a good view of the sun. 

Check the weather

Clear skies are essential to get the best view. Consider destinations with the fewest clouds when deciding where to travel. 

Ready for your adventure?

However you plan to see it, a total solar eclipse is of course worth building your trip around. That moment you share with the crowd, as the sky is cast into darkness, is like nothing else. Even better if you get to discover your new favourite destination at the same time! This is your sign to chat with a travel expert to plan your dream adventure. 

 

Feeling inspired? Contact Us to get planning now!
 

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