WHERE TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS IN 2024/2025
The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are a stunning natural light display that occurs in the Earth's polar regions. They happen when charged particles from the Sun collide with gases in the Earth's atmosphere, creating colorful bands or curtains of light in the sky. These lights can appear in different colors like green, pink, purple, and blue, forming a beautiful dance across the night sky and creating a truly magical experience for those fortunate enough to witness it.
To elevate your Northern Lights adventure to new heights, we've meticulously prepared this comprehensive guide for you:
WHAT TO PACK
Before you set off on your adventure, here's a quick guide on what to pack for your Northern Lights expedition:
Warm Clothing: Dress in layers, including thermal undergarments, an insulated jacket, wool socks, gloves, and a hat to stay cozy in subzero temperatures.
Winter Boots: Opt for waterproof, insulated boots with good traction to navigate icy terrain comfortably.
Camera with Tripod: Capture the mesmerizing auroras with a DSLR camera or a smartphone with manual settings. Don't forget to bring a sturdy tripod for stable long-exposure shots.
Portable Charger: Keep your electronic devices powered up with a portable charger, especially in cold weather conditions that can drain battery life faster.
Headlamp or Flashlight: Navigate dark Arctic nights with ease with a headlamp or a flashlight and maintain your night vision while setting up for aurora photography.
Hand Warmers: Keep your hands warm during extended outdoor viewing sessions with disposable hand warmers.
Snacks and Hot Drinks: Pack energy-boosting snacks and a thermos of hot cocoa or tea to keep warm during Northern Lights outings.
Aurora Forecast App: Download a reliable aurora forecast app to track geomagnetic activity and maximize your chances of witnessing the auroras. Consider My Aurora Forecast & Alerts for accurate and up-to-date information on aurora activity.
Now that you're prepared for your Northern Lights adventure, let's explore some of the best destinations to experience this magical phenomenon:
1. TROMSØ, NORWAY
This city in northern Norway is often regarded as one of the best places to see the Northern Lights due to its clear skies and minimal light pollution.
Best Time to Go: Late September to early April, with peak viewing in December and January.
Airport: Tromsø Airport (TOS)
Accommodation Tip: Stay in a traditional Norwegian cabin for an authentic Arctic experience. Consider options like Tromsø Ice Domes or the Lyngen Lodge for a cozy retreat.
Activity Tip: Explore the Arctic wilderness on a husky sled ride or set out on a whale-watching tour during the day. At night, chase the auroras on a guided Northern Lights excursion or explore spots on your own like Prestvannet Lake or Fjellheisen Cable Car.
2. FAIRBANKS, ALASKA, USA
Fairbanks offers excellent opportunities to witness the Aurora, especially during the winter months when the nights are long and dark.
Best Time to Go: September to mid-April, with optimal viewing from late September to late March.
Airport: Fairbanks International Airport (FAI)
Accommodation Tip: Choose from a range of lodges and cabins offering Northern Lights wake-up calls, such as the Aurora Borealis Lodge or the Borealis Basecamp with its unique glass-roofed igloos.
Activity Tip: Dive into Alaskan wilderness activities like snowmobiling, ice fishing, or a visit to the Chena Hot Springs during the day. At night, head out on a guided tour to prime Northern Lights viewing locations like Cleary Summit or Murphy Dome.
3. ABISKO, SWEDEN
Abisko National Park is known for its clear skies and is one of the most reliable places in the world to see the Aurora Borealis.
Best Time to Go: September to March, with peak viewing in December and January.
Airport: Kiruna Airport (KRN)
Accommodation Tip: Stay at the STF Abisko Turiststation for easy access to prime Northern Lights viewing spots. Alternatively, opt for the Abisko Mountain Lodge for a cozy retreat tucked away in the Swedish wilderness.
Activity Tip: Take a chairlift up Mount Nuolja for a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape and Northern Lights. Join a guided photography tour to capture the auroras in all their glory, or set off on a nighttime snowshoeing adventure under the starry Arctic sky.
4. REYKJAVIK, ICELAND
With its stunning landscapes and relatively low light pollution, Reykjavik is another great destination for experiencing the Northern Lights.
Best Time to Go: September to mid-April, with increased activity during the winter months.
Airport: KeflavÃk International Airport (KEF)
Accommodation Tip: Stay in the heart of Reykjavik for easy access to Northern Lights tours and city attractions. Consider boutique hotels like the Icelandair Hotel Reykjavik Marina or the elegant Canopy by Hilton Reykjavik City Centre.
Activity Tip: Head out on a Northern Lights hunt from Reykjavik, either on a guided bus tour or a boat excursion from the Old Harbour. Combine your aurora experience with a visit to the iconic Golden Circle attractions or a relaxing soak in the Blue Lagoon.
5. YELLOWKNIFE, CANADA
Located in the Northwest Territories, Yellowknife is a popular destination for Northern Lights enthusiasts.
Best Time to Go: Late August to early April, with peak viewing in December and January. Airport: Yellowknife Airport (YZF)
Accommodation Tip: Choose from a range of cozy lodges and cabins offering Northern Lights packages, such as the Aurora Village or the Blachford Lake Lodge with its remote wilderness setting.
Activity Tip: Explore the untouched wilderness surrounding Yellowknife with activities like snowshoeing, or ice fishing. At night, set off on a guided tour to prime Northern Lights viewing spots like Prelude Lake or the Ingraham Trail.
6. LAPLAND, FINLAND
With its untouched wilderness and immaculate conditions, Lapland is another great destination for experiencing the Northern Lights.
Best Time to Go: September to March, with peak viewing in December and January.
Airport: Rovaniemi Airport (RVN)
Accommodation Tip: Experience the magic of Lapland by staying in a traditional Finnish log cabin or a glass-roofed igloo such as Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort or Arctic TreeHouse Hotel, offering unparalleled views of the Northern Lights from the comfort of your bed.
Activity Tip: Experience a reindeer sleigh ride through the snowy forests of Lapland or go on a snowmobile safari to remote Northern Lights viewing spots. Visit the Santa Claus Village for a festive experience, complete with husky rides and a meeting with the man himself.
7. GREENLAND
With its remote and unspoiled landscapes, Greenland is a breathtaking place to witness the Northern Lights.
Best Time to Go: September to March, with peak viewing in December and January.
Airport: Kangerlussuaq Airport (SFJ) or Nuuk Airport (GOH)
Accommodation Tip: Stay in Nuuk, the capital city, for a blend of modern amenities and access to Northern Lights tours. Consider options like Hotel Hans Egede or the Inuk Hostels for budget-friendly stays.
Activity Tip: Explore Greenland's stunning landscapes during the day with activities like glacier hiking, dog sledding, or whale watching. At night, step outside the city lights for optimal Northern Lights viewing opportunities, or take a guided tour to maximize your chances of witnessing the auroras.
EXPERIENCE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS
Picture this: the Northern Lights putting on a jaw-dropping show, splashing the night sky with vibrant colors and leaving everyone mesmerized. Get ready for an epic adventure to see this celestial wonder, and let the enchantment of the Aurora Borealis blow your mind with the incredible beauty of our world.