The Northern Lights, known as Aurora Borealis, is a cosmic phenomenon that has fascinated humans for centuries. Due to the impact of charged particles released by the sun on Earth’s atmosphere, these otherworldly displays of color shimmer and undulate across the night sky.
Where your chances are better: The aurora can be fickle, but some places around the world do offer a greater chance of experiencing the ethereal sight. With solar activity expected to peak in 2025, now is a good time to plan a visit to one of these prime aurora-viewing destinations.
Optimal chances will have to be during the dark winter months, roughly always late September through late March, and away from city lights. Late night to early morning local time is usually peak viewing time. Another key ingredient for a successful viewing: clear skies and strong solar activity.
Here are five of the top spots to witness the Northern Lights:
Tromsø, Norway:
Frequently called the “Gateway to the Arctic,” Tromsø lies below the auroral oval in Northern Norway. Its high latitude combined with relatively mild coastal temperatures, thanks to the Gulf Stream, makes it an easily accessible and comfortable destination for aurora hunters. The city itself is vibrant, with plenty of pubs, restaurants and things to do during the day like dog sledding, meeting reindeer and snowmobiling.
Numerous tour operators in Tromsø offer guided aurora chases that take you into the nearby wilderness, where light pollution is low. It is a magical place to see the Northern Lights with the dramatic backdrop of fjords and snow-capped mountains.
Swedish Lapland:
Lapland, in fact, is the area located in the northernmost part of Sweden, a vast and sparsely populated region of pristine wilderness, frozen lakes and snow-covered forests. Arctic towns such as Abisko and Kiruna are famous for their clear skies and minimal light pollution, making them prime spots for aurora-watching opportunities.
They are particularly known for its “Blue Hole” in Abisko National Park, which is a colorful patch in the sky that tends to remain clear when the surrounding areas may be cloudy. There are some really unique places to stay, like the ICEHOTEL in Jukkasjärvi and a number of wilderness lodges, that are perfect for unforgettable trips combined with solid aurora-watching potential. Husky sledding, snowshoeing, and Sami cultural experiences further enhance the allure of this Arctic wonderland.
Reykjavik, Iceland:
Iceland is a popular destination for the aurora because of its easy access, stunning terrain, and active auroras. Positioned just south of the Arctic Circle, the whole country has opportunities to view the Northern Lights, most notably during the long winter nights. Although the capital city of Reykjavik suffers some light pollution, getting out into the surrounding countryside increases viewing opportunities dramatically.
Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its geological marvels, serves as a dramatic stage for the lights. The black sand beaches around Vík and the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon offer striking foregrounds for photographers. There are also lots of geothermal pools to soak under the dancing lights, transforming your visit into an unforgettable sensory experience.
Rovaniemi, Finnish Lapland:
Rovaniemi, situated directly on the Arctic Circle, is the official hometown of Santa Claus, especially magical throughout the winter months. Beyond the merry atmosphere, Lapland in Finland boasts expansive wilderness areas with low light pollution, making it ideal for aurora-spotting. Many resorts and wilderness cabins suit aurora chasers, with specialized viewing tours and facilities.
Reindeer sleigh rides, ice fishing and snowmobile safaris through the snowy landscapes are just some of the activities that round out the aurora-watching experience. Rovaniemi is a unique and charming destination for tourists and lone travelers alike thanks to the perfect mix of culture and beauty.
Ilulissat, Greenland:
Ilulissat, in Greenland, is an excellent choice for an awe-inspiring, remote, aurora experience. Located on the country’s western coast, the town is backed by some of the planet’s most beautiful scenery, including the Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage site dotted with giant icebergs. Darkness, unpolluted by light, and average weather (low rain, low wind) help bring the Northern Lights into the open.
The surreal and unforgettable dance of the aurora in the skies above dramatic ice teems. Days are filled with dog sledding, ice cave explorations and boat trips among the icebergs for a complete Arctic experience. Greenland — Still in dark territories, the untainted nature of Greenland offers you a serene space to witness Aurora Borealis.
During peak aurora season, visiting any of these destinations provides a great chance to see the mesmerizing dance of the Northern Lights. Don’t forget to check the aurora forecast, dress in warm layers, and stay patient – the extraordinary experience of seeing this otherworldly display is well worth the wait.
And with solar activity expected to peak in late 2025, the upcoming winter season is set to be an incredible time to chase the Aurora Borealis and experience memories that will last a lifetime.
