When and Where to Go
Discover where and when to witness the sky come alive with dazzling waves of green, purple and red.
Here, you’ll find the best locations and times to see this magical natural show.
TROMSØ, LOFOTEN ISLANDS AND ALTA
Best months: Late September to early April
Peak viewing: December to February
Tromsø - known as the Gateway to the Arctic - offers some of the most reliable aurora sightings, along with cozy Nordic cafés and fjord views.
From Lofoten Islands to Alta, Norway’s long coastline gives travelers multiple viewing options.
- Why it’s great: Mild coastal weather and plenty of aurora tours.
- Travel tip: Visit around the equinoxes (March or September) for enhanced solar activity.
ABISKO NATIONAL PARK
Best months: November to March
Peak viewing: December to February
The Abisko National Park is legendary for its “Blue Hole” - a patch of sky that often stays clear even when surrounding regions are cloudy. This makes Abisko one of the world’s most reliable aurora-viewing locations.
- Why it’s great: Low light pollution and dry Arctic air.
- Don’t miss: A ride up to the Aurora Sky Station for panoramic views.
ROVANIEMI, SAARISELKÄ, KAKSLAUTTANEN
Best months: Late August to early April
Peak viewing: September–March
Finland offers an enchanting aurora experience - from glass igloos in Kakslauttanen to cozy log cabins in Rovaniemi, the home of Santa Claus.
- Why it’s great: Long aurora season and unique accommodation options.
- Local tip: The fall (September–October) has warmer weather and clearer skies.
REYKJAVIK, THINGVELLIR NATIONAL PARK, AND VIK
Best months: September to mid-April
Peak viewing: October to March
Iceland’s wide horizons and dramatic volcanic landscapes make aurora hunting feel cinematic.
From Thingvellir National Park to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, the reflections of the lights in the water are unforgettable.
- Why it’s great: Easy access to dark skies within an hour of Reykjavik.
- Tip: Visit during new moon weeks for darker skies.
FAIRBANKS, DENALI AND ANCHORAGE
Best months: August 21 to April 21
Peak viewing: December to March
Fairbanks, located under the auroral oval, enjoys one of the world’s longest and most active aurora seasons. With heated lodges, aurora wake-up calls, and nearby hot springs, it’s an ideal destination for comfort seekers.
- Why it’s great: Consistent auroral activity and clear, dry winter skies.
- Tip: Visit during March for milder temperatures and high solar activity.
YELLOWKNIFE, WHITEHORSE AND CHURCHILL
Best months: Late August to April
Peak viewing: December to March
Yellowknife in Canada’s Northwest Territories is directly beneath the auroral oval, providing nearly perfect conditions for viewing the lights.
Whitehorse (Yukon) and Churchill (Manitoba) also offer great vantage points - sometimes even with polar bears nearby.
- Why it’s great: Cold, clear nights and minimal light pollution.
- Tip: Dress for extreme cold — temperatures often drop below −30°C!
- Check the forecast:
Use NOAA’s Aurora Forecast or apps like My Aurora Forecast.
- Avoid light pollution:
Even a short drive from the city makes a huge difference.
- Time it right:
The best viewing hours are between 9 PM and 2 AM.
- Capture the moment:
Use a tripod, low aperture (f/2.8), and 10–20 second exposure.
Chasing the Northern Lights is all about the adventure - the peaceful Arctic nights, crisp fresh air, and magical moments that take your breath away.
Whether you’re cozy in a Finnish igloo or gazing at Alaska’s star-filled skies, the Aurora Borealis is an experience you’ll never forget.
Our company is dedicated to giving you the best travel experiences, making every trip exciting, comfortable, and unforgettable.
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