Stargazing is fun and becoming a fast growing hobby for many individuals. It is also popular amongst families who love the outdoors, adventure seekers, eco tourists and environmental educational school groups.

"The Klein Karoo is ideal for stargazing due to its very little light pollution and its wide open spaces," says Rudi Oberholzer, spesialist tour guide and manager at De Denne Country Guesthouse in Volmoed. Rudy is also an amateur astronomer from Oudtshoorn, who presents informal lectures on stargazing at De Denne. He has also trained staff from various other guest houses to inform guests on stargazing.

According to Rudi expensive telescopes are not necessary. "With the help of the latest technology, ordinary people can now also easily discover and explore the cosmos. The wow factor is that anybody can now stargaze! Detailed digital star maps are found on mobile smart phones and computers. Program examples are Stellarium, Starry Backyard, Redshift and Google Night Sky."

Rudy says the clear Karoo sky is perfect for stargazing. "Lie on your back, look up at night and enjoy one the biggest nightlife shows ever held!"

A 5-day Oudtshoorn stargazing forecast is available on Accuweather.

  Rudy Oberholzer
  +27 (0)76 764 2495 (from 08:00 to 17:00)