Kenya will on Sunday host its first-ever dedicated astro-tourism experience in Samburu County, coinciding with a rare total lunar eclipse, popularly known as the “blood moon.”
The event, set to take place at the Sopa Lodge in Samburu National Reserve, marks a major step in diversifying the country’s tourism offering and will coincide with a lunar eclipse expected to begin at 8:30 p.m. and last 82 minutes.
With minimal light pollution, clear equatorial skies, and dramatic landscapes, Samburu offers one of the darkest and most pristine night skies in Africa, ideal for viewing constellations, meteor showers, and the Milky Way.
Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano will lead international visitors and local participants in the event, which seeks to position Kenya as a premier destination for astronomy enthusiasts and adventure travellers.
The new tourism product will feature guided night-sky tours, astrophotography expeditions, starlit camp experiences, and educational workshops.
It will also integrate the indigenous astronomical knowledge of Samburu communities, giving visitors a cultural perspective on the stars.
“Astro-tourism is an emerging niche market that combines stargazing, astronomy education and the experience of pristine night skies. With minimal light pollution, clear equatorial skies, and unique landscapes, Samburu presents an unparalleled opportunity to showcase Kenya’s celestial wonders,” a press release by the Kenya Tourism Board reads.
Astro-tourism is anticipated to create new jobs for local guides, hospitality workers, and artisans, while supporting community-led projects that preserve cultural heritage, promote environmental conservation, and stimulate investment in infrastructure.
Other locations where visitors can witness the blood moon on Sunday include the Waterfront in Karen, Nairobi, The Landing in Nanyuki, Ileret Campus of the Turkana Basin Institute; and Fort Place Grill in Kabete, Kiambu County.
