Northern Lights – All you need to know

The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, is a natural light display in the Earth’s sky. Predominantly seen in the high-latitude regions (around the Arctic and Antarctic). This spectacular phenomenon is caused by the collision of charged particles from the sun with atoms in the Earth’s atmosphere. The result is a spectacular display of colors that can range from pale green to deep red and purple.

The Northern Lights are visible in the northern hemisphere. Primarily in countries such as Norway, Iceland, Finland, Sweden, Canada, and Alaska. The best time to see the Northern Lights is during the winter months. When the nights are longest and the skies are darkest. The lights are most active during solar maximum. Which occurs approximately every 11 years, but can also be seen during solar minimum. The next solar maximum is predicted to occur in 2025.

Best places to see Northern Lights

Tromso, Norway

One of the best places to see the Northern Lights is in Norway. Specifically in the area of Tromso, known as the “Capital of the Arctic”. Tromso is located 200 miles north of the Arctic Circle, making it one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. The city offers a variety of tour options, including dog sledding, reindeer sledding, and snowmobiling tours that take visitors out into the wilderness to see the lights.

Vatnajökull National Park, Iceland

Another great place to see the Northern Lights is in Iceland. The country is known for its unique landscapes and natural wonders. The lights can be seen from many locations in Iceland, but the best place to see them is in the Vatnajökull National Park. It is the largest national park in Europe. The park offers a variety of tour options, including ice cave tours and snowmobiling tours that take visitors out into the wilderness to see the lights.

Rovaniemi, Finland

Finland is another great place to see the Northern Lights. The country is known for its vast expanses of wilderness and its many national parks, which are perfect for viewing the lights. The best place to see the Northern Lights in Finland is in the Rovaniemi. It is located on the Arctic Circle. The city offers a variety of tour options, including reindeer sledding and snowmobiling tours that take visitors out into the wilderness to see the lights.

Canada

For those looking for a more unique Northern Lights experience, a trip to Canada’s Yukon territory is a must. In addition to seeing the Northern Lights, visitors can also catch a glimpse of the Midnight Sun during the summer months. The best place to see the Northern Lights in the Yukon is in Whitehorse. It is located on the Arctic Circle. The city offers a variety of tour options, including dog sledding and snowmobiling tours that take visitors out into the wilderness to see the lights.

Alaska

Alaska also offers great opportunities to see the Northern Lights. Specifically in Fairbanks, which is located just 200 miles south of the Arctic Circle. The city offers a variety of tour options, including dogsledding, snowmobiling, and even hot air balloon rides that take visitors out into the wilderness to see the lights.

Things to remember

It is important to note that while these destinations are known for having high chances of seeing the Northern Lights, it’s not a guarantee. The Northern Lights’ appearance depends on solar activity and weather conditions. Clear, dark skies with little light pollution are the best for seeing the Northern Lights. It is also important to dress warmly, as the Northern Lights are best viewed in the winter months and temperatures can drop below freezing.