The path of totality
The shadow crosses the Atlantic into southern Spain, then continues through Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya and Egypt before reaching Saudi Arabia, Yemen and Somalia. A much larger surrounding region sees a partial eclipse.
Greatest eclipse occurs near 25.5° north, 33.2° east in Egypt. The central duration there is about 6 minutes 23 seconds, with the Sun exceptionally high in the sky.
Leading destination regions
- Luxor and the Nile Valley for very long totality and a high Sun.
- Southern Spain for European transport links and shorter totality.
- Morocco for a balance of access, landscapes and strong duration.
- The Red Sea coast and western Saudi Arabia for long totality and generally dry summer conditions.
Heat, logistics and capacity
Many of the clearest regions are extremely hot in August. Plan shade, water, medication and reliable transport before choosing a site.
Verify that hotels and events lie inside the path and ask for exact coordinates. A venue advertised as near the eclipse may still be outside totality.
How to choose between destinations
- Compare historical cloudiness, dust and haze, not only totality duration.
- Check immigration, road and site-access requirements early.
- Prefer a base with several reachable microclimates.
- Use local calculations for the exact observing point before booking.
Scientific references
References used for eclipse dates, safety guidance and local calculations.