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Costa Rica is a favorite destination for travelers because of its agreeable climate, spectacular scenery, and friendly people. This small Central American country is a mecca for bird enthusiasts. What few realize is that it is also a superb destination for amateur astronomers seeking views of the southern sky’s many splendors. Imagine viewing the Magellanic Clouds, the Southern Cross, the Eta Carinae Nebula, and countless other deep-sky wonders in tropical comfort from a dark-sky site. Now you can!

Sky & Telescope magazine and TravelQuest International have teamed up to provide this remarkable observing opportunity. After extensive research and in-person scouting by S&T editors, we have selected a site that offers a uniquely superb combination of first-rate sky conditions and amenities. At 10^o north latitude, our Costa Rican site is 15^o farther south than the Florida Keys and 10^o more southerly than the Big Island of Hawaii — which means that horizon-hugging southern targets will be 10^o to 15^o higher in the sky than from those locales. And you don’t have to endure a long, grueling flight or tiresome jet lag to get there — Costa Rica is just a 2 1/2-hour flight from Miami and is situated in the central time zone.

Our observing site is a coastal location in the most arid part of the country, far from any light pollution. In addition, we have timed our tour to coincide with the new Moon and the driest part of the dry season to ensure the greatest number of clear, dark nights. Tour participants will be treated to an unobstructed southern horizon and a grassy, dust-free observing area only yards from our accommodations, where North American standard 120-volt, 60-Hz AC power is available.

A perfect climate, perfect sky, perfect accommodations, and easy access. What more could you desire for a southern-sky destination? Join us and discover the wonders of Costa Rica and the southern sky!