Where To See The Northern Lights – Tips For Catching Auroras

Tromsø, located in the heart of the Arctic Circle, is often referred to as the “Gateway to the Arctic” and is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. The city’s location, combined with its relatively mild coastal climate, provides excellent conditions for aurora viewing from September to April. Tromsø offers a range of Northern Lights tours, including dog sledding, snowmobiling, and boat cruises, all designed to take you away from city lights for the best viewing experience. Additionally, Tromsø is home to the Northern Lights Observatory and several research centers dedicated to studying the aurora. Visitors can also explore the Arctic Cathedral, the Polar Museum, and the Fjellheisen cable car, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding fjords and mountains. With its combination of natural beauty, scientific interest, and adventure activities, Tromsø provides a comprehensive and exciting Northern Lights experience.

Fairbanks, Alaska, is a premier destination for Northern Lights viewing in North America. Situated under the Aurora Oval, Fairbanks offers some of the most reliable and stunning aurora displays from late August to mid-April. The city’s clear skies and cold, dry climate create perfect conditions for witnessing the lights. Fairbanks is also home to the Geophysical Institute at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, which provides aurora forecasts and research. Visitors can enjoy a range of aurora-focused activities, such as hot springs tours, dog sledding, and viewing from heated aurora domes or cabins. A short drive away, the Chena Hot Springs Resort offers a unique experience to soak in natural hot springs while watching the Northern Lights. Fairbanks also serves as a gateway to exploring Alaska’s wilderness, including Denali National Park and the Arctic Circle. With its accessibility, range of activities, and frequent aurora sightings, Fairbanks is an excellent choice for Northern Lights enthusiasts.

Abisko, located in Swedish Lapland, is renowned for having one of the clearest and most reliable skies for viewing the Northern Lights. The village’s unique microclimate and position within the Aurora Oval make it one of the best places in the world to see the aurora borealis. The Abisko National Park, with its stunning landscapes and the iconic Lapporten (the “Lapland Gate”), provides a beautiful backdrop for aurora viewing. One of the highlights of Abisko is the Aurora Sky Station, situated on Mount Nuolja, which offers unobstructed views of the night sky and Northern Lights from November to March. Visitors can take a chairlift to the station, where they can enjoy guided tours, dinner, and informative displays about the Northern Lights. Additionally, Abisko offers a range of winter activities, including cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and dog sledding. The combination of clear skies, stunning natural beauty, and dedicated aurora facilities makes Abisko a top destination for Northern Lights enthusiasts.

Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, is a popular destination for Northern Lights viewing due to its accessibility and diverse range of activities. From September to April, visitors can witness the aurora borealis from various locations around the city and nearby countryside. Reykjavik itself offers several Northern Lights tours, including bus trips, boat cruises, and even helicopter flights, which take you away from the city’s light pollution for optimal viewing. Additionally, the city’s proximity to natural attractions like Thingvellir National Park, the Golden Circle, and the Blue Lagoon provides opportunities to combine aurora viewing with sightseeing and relaxation. The Blue Lagoon, in particular, offers a unique experience to soak in geothermal waters while watching the Northern Lights. Reykjavik’s vibrant cultural scene, with its museums, restaurants, and nightlife, ensures that there is plenty to do during the day before heading out to chase the lights at night. With its combination of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and aurora viewing opportunities, Reykjavik is a fantastic destination for a Northern Lights adventure.