Best Places to See the Northern Lights
The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, is a magical natural light display primarily visible in the northern hemisphere, showcasing shades of green, blue, and occasionally red.
What Causes the Northern Lights?
The phenomenon occurs when electrically charged particles from the sun are propelled towards Earth by the solar wind. When these particles collide with the gases in the Earth’s outer atmosphere, such as oxygen and nitrogen, they produce vivid light displays. Collisions with oxygen at high altitudes create red auras, nitrogen at lower altitudes generates blue light, and when particles interact at higher altitudes, they can produce stunning purples and violets. Mixed colors can sometimes appear as pink and white.
A Fairy-Tale Experience
Seeing the Northern Lights had always been a dream of mine. In April 2023, during my trip to Swedish Lapland, I was fortunate to witness this amazing spectacle twice. Above the frozen Lule River in Luleå, I saw vibrant green streaks spreading across the night sky, creating a truly unforgettable experience.
Plan Your Own Adventure
We are currently in a solar cycle that promises to offer some of the most spectacular auroras ever. This means you have a good chance of seeing the Northern Lights until around 2027. Here are eight of the best places to view this natural wonder:
Alaska: With its minimal light pollution and vast wilderness, Alaska is a fantastic place to see the Northern Lights, especially in Fairbanks and Denali National Park. Additional activities include visiting Anchorage, Fairbanks, and Juneau, relaxing in hot springs, and exploring fjords. The best time to visit is from mid-August to the end of April.
Yukon: Northern Canada, particularly the remote Northwest Territories, offers excellent viewing opportunities. In March, a colleague saw a breathtaking aurora display in Yukon. Other activities include visiting Whitehorse, exploring gold mining towns, hiking in Kluane National Park, and visiting Takhini Hot Springs. The best time to travel is from late August to mid-April.
Finnish Lapland: This region boasts minimal light pollution and offers up to 200 nights of aurora visibility each year. You can stay in luxurious accommodations like Aurora Glamping or glass cabins in Northern Lights Village Saariselka or Levi. Activities include visiting Santa Claus in Rovaniemi, husky safaris, and snowmobile rides. The best travel time is from early September to late March.
Iceland: Reykjavik and the surrounding areas, such as Snæfelsness Peninsula and Thingvellir National Park, are great for viewing the Northern Lights. Other activities include snowkiting, ice fishing, hiking in the Landmannalaugar valley, and driving the Golden Circle route. The best time to visit is from early September to late April.
Greenland: Mostly within the Arctic Circle, Greenland, particularly Kangerlussuaq, is ideal for witnessing the Northern Lights. Activities include meeting the Inuit and visiting the Russel Glacier. The best time to visit is from September to early April.
Swedish Lapland: In addition to Luleå, other great spots include Kiruna and Abisko National Park. Activities range from ice skating, ice stepping, ice fishing, and ice bathing, to snowmobile and husky tours. The best time to visit is from early December to early April.
Norway: Alta, Tromsø, and the Svalbard archipelago are excellent for viewing the Northern Lights. Enjoy activities like spotting polar bears, exploring on a fatbike, meeting the Sami people, and joining the Huritgruten fjord cruise. The best travel time is from mid-August to the end of April.
Scotland: The Isle of Skye, Shetland, Orkney, and Caithness offer fantastic stargazing and aurora viewing opportunities. Activities include visiting the Stone of Stennes, exploring Skara Brae, and experiencing Scotland’s unique cultural heritage. The best time to visit is from early October to late March.
Plan your trip soon and look forward to an unforgettable experience under the Northern Lights!