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How to See the Aurora Borealis

Mother Nature’s most dazzling light display, the aurora borealis, or northern lights, is a breathtaking sight coveted by travelers and astronomy enthusiasts alike. This mesmerizing natural phenomenon occurs in far northern latitudes, offering vivid displays of color and light in the night sky, primarily during the colder months. Whether you dream of witnessing this spectacle from Europe’s Nordic regions or North America’s coldest corners, our guide covers prime locations, best times to visit, tips to enhance your viewing experience, and exciting tour options. Dive into our resourceful guide and discover the best places to add to your northern lights bucket list.

Where to see the northern lights in Europe

Europe offers a multitude of prime locations to witness the northern lights, each providing its own unique experience. Alongside vast wilderness and dramatic landscapes, these settings allow for an unforgettable viewing experience. Norway, Sweden, and Iceland stand out as top choices for aurora seekers, with organized tours frequently available.

Northern regions benefit from long nights in the winter months between late September and late March, providing more opportunities for aurora sightings. Consider visiting these countries not only for their night skies but also for the vibrant cultures and enchanting wintry activities they offer.

Norway

Norway’s stunning landscapes make it one of the most sought-after destinations for aurora hunters. Tromsø, known as the “Gateway to the Arctic,” is a favorite choice due to its accessibility and plethora of guided tours that increase your chance of seeing the lights. Additionally, the scenic Lofoten Islands present a picturesque backdrop for the colorful displays.

The country’s blend of rich Sami culture and jaw-dropping fjords guarantees an enriched travel experience. Don your thermals, explore the breathtaking northern terrain by day, and prepare for an awe-inspiring sky show under the Arctic night.

Sweden

Sweden’s Lapland is a winter wonderland that captivates travelers with snowy landscapes and, of course, the northern lights. Abisko National Park is famed for its blue hole—a patch of sky reportedly free of clouds, increasing the odds of spotting the aurora. Accommodation options are diverse, with cozy lodges and the unique Icehotel adding to the adventure.

Opt for a guided snowmobile or dog-sled tour to further immerse yourself in the Swedish wilderness as you chase the auroras. The blend of outdoor activity and celestial wonder promises a fulfilling experience for adventurous spirits.

Iceland

Iceland offers a unique opportunity to observe the northern lights away from the light pollution of major urban areas. The Þingvellir National Park, revered for its natural beauty and cultural significance, tops the list for aurora sightings. Additionally, the volcanic landscape of the Reykjanes Peninsula provides an enchanting setting for your aurora adventure.

With Reykjavik as your base, you can quickly access prime viewing locations on guided tours. Remember to indulge in Iceland’s iconic geothermal pools; soak under the stars before you venture out for a night of aurora chasing.

Hurtigruten Coastal Express

The Hurtigruten Coastal Express offers a unique maritime experience for those eager to hunt the northern lights. This renowned cruise ventures along Norway’s rugged coastline, providing travelers with optimal chances to witness the auroras from the comfort of a ship deck.

Consider a winter voyage when the longest nights allow for extended viewing opportunities. This mode of travel not only ensures a celestial spectacle but also provides the chance to explore Norway’s coastal communities and natural wonders.

The Northern Lights Company

The Northern Lights Company specializes in curated experiences that maximize your chances of witnessing the northern lights. With profound local knowledge, they facilitate trips replete with expert guidance through mesmerizing Arctic landscapes.

From dog sledding to intimate cabin retreats, each experience is crafted to deepen your appreciation of the natural world, often combined with cultural insights from indigenous guides. Whether exploring expansive fjords or remote wilderness, let the company guide you in your quest for the illusive auroras.

Visit Tromsø

Tromsø, often referred to as the “Paris of the North,” is a top tourist destination for those yearning to witness the northern lights firsthand. Boasting a vibrant cultural scene nestled among raw natural beauty, the city is a perfect launch point for aurora excursions.

The city’s compact size allows for easy access to nearby wilderness areas, perfect for night-time aurora spy expeditions. Be it by snowmobile, kayak, or dog sled, Tromsø offers a variety of exhilarating ways to seek out the lights.

Lights over Lapland

As an industry leader in aurora-focused tourism, Lights over Lapland offers thoroughly planned photo tours and multi-day experiences, enabling guests to immerse themselves in Swedish Lapland’s stunning wilderness.

These tours often include educational components, teaching tourists aurora photography techniques to capture that perfect, ethereal shot of the vivid sky. The expert guides ensure every moment of your expedition is rooted in both excitement and comfort.

Guide to Iceland

Guide to Iceland is renowned for comprehensive and customizable tours that highlight the best aurora viewing sites across Iceland. Their tours cater to various preferences with options for private excursions, group tours, or self-guided itineraries for independent travelers.

Explore the stunning Icelandic landscapes, from thundering waterfalls to volcanic craters, and let the enthralling northern lights serve as the highlight of your adventure under the dark Arctic sky.

Viator northern lights night tour from Reykjavik

The Viator Northern Lights Night Tour offers an accessible introduction to aurora watching for those based in Reykjavik. Designed for convenience, these tours provide transportation and knowledgeable guides adept at reading aurora signals to ensure a successful hunt.

With flexible booking options and a strong success rate, Viator’s excursions accommodate both first-time viewers and seasoned northern lights chasers, promising an unforgettable evening beneath the Icelandic stars.

Arctic Adventures

Arctic Adventures offers an array of dynamic tours through the wild terrains of Northern Europe, geared towards showcasing Iceland’s northern lights. Their itineraries balance adventure with awe, spanning activities from volcanic hikes to relaxing geothermal baths.

Designed for thrill-seekers and serene explorers alike, Arctic Adventures ensures an enriching journey under the luminous sky, culminating in nights spent gazing up at the radiant Arctic phenomenon.

Where to see the northern lights in North America

For many, North America offers an accessible gateway to the aurora pleasures of the north. With great distances, varied landscapes, and harsh, cold climates, this region promises another set of spectacular light shows. From Alaska’s expansive wilderness to Canada’s solitary Yukon and ethereal Hudson Bay, opportunities abound.

Understand the logistics and enter with an open mind to fully relish the northern lights splendor that can be experienced far from the comfort of home yet close enough to implore future visits.

Alaska Tours

Alaska, known for its rugged beauty, offers spectacular views of the aurora. Tours in locations like Fairbanks and Anchorage organize dedicated aurora outings, often providing visitors with heated cabins or domes to watch the sky in comfort.

These tours embrace the surrounding natural beauty and unique wildlife, creating a holistic journey. Whether you’re braving the cold on a dog sled or cozying up by a fire, Alaska promises an immersive experience in one of the most stunning places on earth.

Aurora Borealis Yukon

Yukon, Canada, roars to life in winter with blazing skies hosting the northern lights. Renowned for its remote, untouched beauty, Yukon invites visitors to appreciate both its land and skies in tandem.

Tours often emphasize a blend of cultural immersion with aurora viewing, inviting guests to learn about the indigenous peoples and settle into nature’s quietude while majestic lights play overhead.

Churchill Arctic Adventures

Churchill, often dubbed as the “polar bear capital of the world,” offers unforgettable northern lights experiences. The remoteness and pristine environment set the perfect stage for unparalleled aurora displays.

Beyond the lights, explore the rich wildlife and unique culture indigenous to the Churchill area. From polar bear sightings to embarking on tundra excursions, there’s no shortage of stark beauty in this Arctic haven.

Can I see the northern lights from my home?

While witnessing the northern lights from home may be a stretch for many, those living at high latitudes in countries like Canada, Alaska, or Norway might be fortunate enough to catch this mesmerizing phenomenon from their own backyard.

Ensure clear, dark skies free from city light pollution to maximize visibility. Keeping an eye on northern lights forecasts can aid in predicting activity levels, allowing for spontaneous nocturnal adventures.

When to see the northern lights

The best time to observe the northern lights typically spans from late September to late March, when the Arctic regions experience long, dark nights. Peak periods often occur around equinoctial months of September and March, when geomagetic disturbances tend to enhance auroras.

Patience, appropriate winter gear, and a bit of luck can go a long way in these months. Try to plan trips outside of full moon phases to avoid excessive light pollution, increasing the chances of vibrant displays.

Northern lights forecasts

Online resources and apps today offer real-time northern lights forecasts, monitoring solar wind activities to estimate aurora visibility. Popular tools like AuroraWatch, University of Alaska’s Geophysical Institute, or Spaceweather provide regular updates and alerts.

Monitoring these forecasts allows enthusiasts ample time to prepare for impromptu outings. Sign up for alerts to increase the chances of witnessing a stunning aurora show when conditions are favorable.

Get the Space.com Newsletter

Stay informed with Space.com’s comprehensive newsletter, delivering updates on celestial phenomena like the northern lights, among various other space-related news. This valuable resource keeps enthusiasts and casual followers abreast of the latest aurora alerts and cosmic events.

The newsletter enriches your knowledge, ensuring you never miss out on fascinating occurrences happening in the skies above. Subscribe to ensure you’re always in the loop regarding prime aurora viewing opportunities.

What are your top tips for seeing the northern lights?

Timing is everything when it comes to northern lights chasing. Prioritize late fall to early spring and seek the darkest locations away from urban centers to maximize your chance of seeing the lights.

Dress warmly with multiple layers to withstand icy temperatures and patiently wait for the auroras to grace you with their presence. Always keep an eye on local forecasts and consider joining guided tours for expert insights and efficient travel.

What is your favorite aurora fact?

The splendid colors of auroras, ranging from green to rare reds and blues, result from different gases in Earth’s atmosphere reacting to solar particles. For example, oxygen contributes to green and red colors, whereas nitrogen accounts for purples and blues.

These extraordinary colors have mesmerized people for centuries, often inspiring myths and legends among indigenous groups the world over, demonstrating the profound impact of the auroras on human culture and imagination.

Final thoughts

Region	Top Tour Providers	Best Time To See Auroras
Europe	Hurtigruten Coastal Express, The Northern Lights Company, Lights over Lapland	Late September – Late March
Iceland	Guide to Iceland, Viator Northern Lights Night Tour, Arctic Adventures	Late September – Late March
North America	Alaska Tours, Aurora Borealis Yukon, Churchill Arctic Adventures	Late September – Late March

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