Published 5th Jun. 2025
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Calling all night owls – the late shift just got a whole lot more interesting. Dubbed ‘Noctourism’, this new nocturnal travel trend is all about exploring destinations beyond their cocktail bars and casinos. From stargazing in Spain to night hikes in the Costa Rican jungle, there’s a whole world to discover after the lights go out. Torches at the ready? Let’s hope you’re not afraid of the dark...
Thanks to light pollution in urban areas, the starry night sky is a hidden spectacle for most of us. But not in Tenerife’s Teide National Park. Perched on the 12,198ft tall Mount Teide, the highest peak in Spain, this rocky landscape is far-flung from any star-stifling city lights. Cast your eyes skyward at night and ogle at complex constellations (pointed out by a savvy astronomer guide, of course).
Image by Getty Images.
Discover Costa Rica’s secret side and meet Sarapiqui’s nocturnal residents. Led by an experienced naturalist guide, hike through the tropical lowland rainforest after nightfall for a true noctourism adventure. Spot sloths, red-eyed tree frogs, eyelash vipers, kinkajous and tarantulas (eek) while listening out for atmospheric owl hoots and the occasional mysterious rustle...
Image by Getty Images.
By day, Botswana’s safaris are superb. But by night? They’re spellbinding. Follow your 4x4’s lights through the Okavango Delta and spot the blue-tinted reflective eyes of genets, civets, hyenas and even the elusive leopard. Don’t worry, your expert local guide will know the difference between species’ eyeshine and sounds, so you can sit back, wrap up and enjoy the show.
Image by Olivier Romano.
Snorkelling through clouds of bioluminescent plankton is a Noctourism experience plucked straight from space. Come nightfall, wade into the warm waters on Cambodia’s Koh Rong island and watch the depths sparkle like starlight with every movement. The best time to see this natural phenomenon is during moonless nights, so check the lunar calendar before you go to ensure you catch the most dazzling display.
Image by Getty Images.
Step back in time and see the ancient city of Petra as it once would have been – illuminated by candlelight. Free from daytime crowds and heat, begin by strolling through the narrow Siq, its sandstone walls awash with an orange glow. The iconic Treasury awaits at the end, complete with traditional Bedouin music and comfy cushions to rest on.
Image by Getty Images.
Written by Evie Buller | Header Image by Brice Portolano/hanslucas.com/Fotolia.
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