South Africa isn’t the first place people think of when it comes to the Southern Lights, also known as the Aurora Australis. These stunning natural light displays are more commonly associated with Antarctica, Tasmania, and the southern tips of New Zealand and Chile.
But under rare and specific conditions, South Africans can catch a glimpse too – if they know where and when to look. Here’s what you need to know about spotting the Southern Lights from South Africa and the best places to try your luck…
Can you really see the Southern Lights in South Africa?
Yes – but only rarely. The Southern Lights are caused by charged solar particles interacting with Earth’s magnetic field. The further south you are, the better your chances. Most of South Africa sits too far north for regular sightings.
However, during periods of intense solar activity, like this week, auroras can stretch farther than usual, occasionally lighting up the southern skies over South Africa. These events are rare and unpredictable, but when they happen, they make for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Top places in South Africa for a chance at seeing the Aurora Australis
While no place in South Africa guarantees a view, the following locations are your best bet due to their southern latitude, clear skies, and low light pollution:
1. Sutherland, Northern Cape
Why it’s good: Sutherland is home to the South African Astronomical Observatory and is famous for its dark skies and dry climate. It’s also one of the coldest and most remote towns in South Africa, giving you dark, crisp skies with minimal interference.
2. Cape Agulhas, Western Cape, South Africa
Why it’s good: This is the southernmost point of Africa, making it the closest you can get to Antarctica without leaving the continent. Wide horizons and ocean views also increase your chances of catching low-hanging auroras.
3. Arniston / Waenhuiskrans, Western Cape, South Africa
Why it’s good: Just east of Cape Agulhas, this coastal village offers unobstructed views over the southern ocean. The little town also has very little light pollution and open skies facing directly south.
4. False Bay and Cape Point, Western Cape, South Africa
Why it’s good: These spots south of Cape Town provide clear, south-facing ocean views and easy access from the city. Higher elevations like Cape Point can give you a wider view of the horizon, improving visibility.
5. Underberg and Sani Pass region, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Why it’s good: High elevation, low light pollution, and wide, open southern horizons make this your top option in the KZN province. You’re also looking out over Lesotho and the southern Drakensberg range, away from major light sources.
Some tips for spotting them
- Follow solar weather reports: Use tools like NOAA’s Aurora Forecast or apps like My Aurora Forecast.
- Find dark sky locations: Get far from city lights – this makes all the difference.
- Use a camera: Sometimes the aurora is too faint for the naked eye but shows up in long-exposure shots.
- Stay patient: You could wait hours and see nothing. Or get lucky in ten minutes. There’s no guarantee.
Have you seen the Southern Lights before?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
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