12 Best Places to See the Aurora Borealis: The Northern Lights

Aurora Borealis

Best Places to See the Aurora Borealis: A Journey Under the Northern Lights

The Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights, is one of nature’s most spectacular phenomena. This otherworldly light show, caused by the interaction between solar winds and the Earth’s magnetic field, has captivated humans for centuries. The dancing ribbons of green, purple, and red light shimmer across the night sky, creating an unforgettable experience for those lucky enough to witness it. But where should you go to maximize your chances of seeing this celestial wonder?

In this article, we’ll explore the best places around the world to view the Northern Lights, from well-known hotspots in Scandinavia to lesser-known destinations that offer a unique glimpse of this natural marvel.

1. Tromsø, Norway

Tromsø, located above the Arctic Circle in Norway, is often referred to as the “Gateway to the Arctic.” With its location at 69 degrees north latitude, it offers one of the most reliable spots for seeing the Northern Lights. Tromsø is not only renowned for its aurora displays but also for its cultural vibrancy and winter activities.

You can go dog sledding, snowshoeing, or take a fjord cruise, all while keeping an eye on the night sky. Tromsø’s infrastructure makes it easy for travelers, with many Northern Lights tours available that include knowledgeable guides, ensuring you’re taken to the best spots for viewing. If you’re lucky, you may even witness the aurora while staying warm inside the city limits.

2. Abisko, Sweden

Nestled in Swedish Lapland, Abisko is considered one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights, thanks to its unique microclimate. The small village lies in a valley surrounded by mountains, which helps create clear skies even when surrounding areas are cloudy. This is key for aurora viewing, as the phenomenon requires dark, cloudless nights for optimal visibility.

The Aurora Sky Station, located atop Mount Nuolja, offers one of the best platforms for viewing the Northern Lights in the region. Abisko also offers other winter attractions, like the Icehotel in nearby Jukkasjärvi and the opportunity to explore the natural beauty of Lapland through cross-country skiing and snowmobiling.

3. Reykjavik, Iceland

Iceland has gained a reputation as one of the most scenic countries on Earth, and it’s also an excellent location to view the Northern Lights. Reykjavik, the country’s capital, is a popular base for travelers looking to see the aurora borealis, thanks to its proximity to dark-sky locations just outside the city.

Iceland’s geothermal hot springs, waterfalls, and volcanic landscapes provide a dramatic backdrop for the lights. Imagine soaking in a warm lagoon under a sky lit up by vibrant green and purple lights. Additionally, a short drive from the city brings you to Thingvellir National Park or the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, both prime spots for aurora watching away from city lights.

4. Fairbanks, Alaska, USA

Fairbanks, located deep in the interior of Alaska, is one of the best places in North America to witness the Northern Lights. The city sits directly under the auroral oval, which increases the chances of seeing a vivid light display. In Fairbanks, the aurora season runs from late August to mid-April, offering a long window for travelers to visit.

One of the best ways to enjoy the Northern Lights in Fairbanks is to visit Chena Hot Springs, located about an hour’s drive from the city. Soaking in the hot springs while watching the sky light up is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Fairbanks also offers aurora-viewing lodges and guided tours that take you away from the city lights into remote wilderness areas for optimal viewing conditions.

5. Yellowknife, Canada

Yellowknife, the capital of Canada’s Northwest Territories, is often considered the “Aurora Capital of North America.” Located directly under the auroral oval, it boasts clear skies, little light pollution, and long winter nights, making it an ideal location for aurora viewing. The town even has an “Aurora Village” that offers purpose-built viewing facilities for tourists.

In Yellowknife, the aurora borealis is visible on most nights during the winter months, and you can combine your trip with other winter activities like ice fishing, snowshoeing, and learning about the indigenous Dene culture. The city’s location on the shores of Great Slave Lake also provides stunning frozen landscapes to enhance your viewing experience.

6. Rovaniemi, Finland

Rovaniemi, the capital of Finnish Lapland, is the official home of Santa Claus and a magical destination to witness the Northern Lights. The city sits just a few kilometers south of the Arctic Circle, and during the aurora season, visitors can expect frequent sightings of the lights on clear nights.

Rovaniemi offers more than just aurora borealis opportunities. Visitors can explore the Santa Claus Village, meet reindeer, or stay in a glass igloo, allowing you to enjoy the Northern Lights from the comfort of your bed. The Kemi SnowCastle and nearby Ranua Wildlife Park are also popular winter attractions that can be combined with an aurora chase.

7. Svalbard, Norway

For a truly Arctic adventure, head to Svalbard, a remote archipelago halfway between mainland Norway and the North Pole. The islands experience a long polar night from mid-November to January, meaning the sun doesn’t rise above the horizon for several weeks, creating prime conditions for aurora viewing.

In addition to the Northern Lights, Svalbard offers incredible wildlife experiences, including the chance to see polar bears, Arctic foxes, and reindeer in their natural habitat. The remote, pristine environment makes it one of the most unique places to witness the aurora borealis, but be prepared for the cold and pack accordingly.

8. Kangerlussuaq, Greenland

Greenland, known for its rugged wilderness and stunning landscapes, is also a great place to see the Northern Lights. Kangerlussuaq, a small settlement located near the Arctic Circle, is one of the best spots for aurora viewing due to its clear skies and low light pollution. The Northern Lights are visible in Greenland from September to April, and Kangerlussuaq offers a stable, dry climate that increases your chances of seeing them.

Aside from the aurora borealis, Greenland offers breathtaking fjords, glaciers, and opportunities for dog sledding, making it an adventurous destination for nature lovers. A trip here combines the allure of the Northern Lights with the stark beauty of the Arctic landscape.

9. Murmansk, Russia

Murmansk, located in the far northwest of Russia, is the largest city north of the Arctic Circle and an off-the-beaten-path destination for Northern Lights enthusiasts. While it may not have the tourism infrastructure of some of the other destinations on this list, Murmansk offers the opportunity to see the aurora without the crowds.

Murmansk’s location ensures regular aurora displays during the winter months, and you can combine your visit with a trip to the Kola Peninsula, a wild and remote region known for its pristine natural beauty. The area also offers a glimpse into the life of the indigenous Sami people and their traditional way of living in the Arctic.

10. Isle of Skye, Scotland

While Scotland might not be the first place that comes to mind for Northern Lights viewing, the Isle of Skye in the Scottish Highlands offers occasional sightings of the aurora borealis, known locally as the “Mirrie Dancers.” The best time to see the lights here is during the winter months, when clear, dark skies prevail.

The Isle of Skye is known for its dramatic landscapes, including rugged cliffs, sea stacks, and ancient castles, all of which provide a picturesque setting for watching the Northern Lights. While the aurora isn’t as consistent here as in locations closer to the Arctic Circle, the experience of seeing it in this hauntingly beautiful landscape is worth the effort.

11. Þingvellir National Park, Iceland

Iceland makes another appearance on this list because it offers several excellent viewing spots for the aurora borealis. Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located about 40 minutes from Reykjavik and offers some of the best opportunities to see the Northern Lights in a natural, historical setting.

Þingvellir is a place of geological and cultural significance, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. Viewing the aurora borealis here, with the park’s rugged cliffs and crystal-clear lakes as a backdrop, is an awe-inspiring experience. It’s also an ideal location for photography, as the park is far enough from the city lights to allow for dark, starry skies.

12. Kiruna, Sweden

Located in Swedish Lapland, Kiruna is another fantastic destination for aurora viewing. Kiruna is Sweden’s northernmost town and lies within the auroral oval, offering high chances of seeing the Northern Lights between September and April. The town is also home to the world-famous Icehotel, which is rebuilt every winter entirely from ice and snow.

In Kiruna, you can take a snowmobile safari, visit the nearby Abisko National Park, or go on a guided Northern Lights tour for a better chance at spotting the lights. The combination of Kiruna’s unique Arctic experiences and its prime aurora viewing conditions make it a must-visit for anyone seeking the Northern Lights.

The Northern Lights are one of the most mesmerizing natural phenomena, and witnessing them is a bucket-list experience for many travelers. Whether you choose to visit the Arctic regions of Scandinavia, North America, or remote parts of Russia and Greenland, each destination offers its own unique charm and opportunities for adventure. Remember, the key to seeing the aurora borealis is patience and flexibility. With the right location and timing.