Nature Astronomy, Published online: 14 August 2026; doi:10.1038/s41550-026-02944-0 Astro-tourism programmes have emerged across the world as a form of scientific engagement. The Carnarvon Astro Guides initiative in the Karoo, South Africa, is one of them, aiming to connect the large-scale astronomical infrastructure (including the SKA) to local socio-economic development.