Discover the World’s Most Stunning Aurora Viewing Destinations
1. Iceland
Iceland is renowned as the “land of the aurora,” a top destination for aurora enthusiasts. The country offers numerous spots for photographing the northern lights and enjoying the romantic beauty of the night sky. Reykjavik, the capital, is the most accessible location for aurora viewing. For more spectacular aurora experiences, consider joining local tours that provide opportunities to witness the dazzling lights in various shapes and colors. Notable spots include the town of Akureyri, Lake Mývatn, the Landmannalaugar volcanic region, and Reynisfjara Beach. According to many travelers, the best time to visit Iceland for aurora viewing is from September to March when winter provides clear, dry skies and optimal conditions for observing the northern lights.
2. Norway
If you find yourself traveling to Norway, make sure to visit the town of Alta for aurora viewing. Known as the “Aurora Borealis Town,” Alta experiences frequent auroras from September to April. It is also home to the world’s first northern lights observatory. Alta is located at the southern end of the Altareva River, featuring peaceful natural scenery with small villages, forests, and long roads. The town’s winter snow attracts many visitors, and the auroras here often appear as green or purple-red bands in the night sky. Choose a village with a clear view to enhance your aurora experience. Remember to bring a camera to capture these breathtaking moments.
3. Finland
Finland is another must-visit destination for aurora enthusiasts. The northern lights can be seen around 100 times a year in this country. From October to March, Rovaniemi is the ideal location for observing the auroras. This charming town is one of Europe’s top spots for aurora viewing and attracts many winter visitors. Each aurora display in Rovaniemi lasts about 3 minutes, but sometimes they can persist for hours. The chances of photographing the auroras depend on luck, but with patience, you can fully enjoy this stunning natural phenomenon. Scientists believe that the region’s climate and conditions are favorable for aurora viewing, with a dark sky that makes the colorful lights stand out. Winter in Rovaniemi also offers opportunities for activities such as skiing.
4. Greenland
Greenland is another breathtaking location for viewing the auroras, with extremely low light pollution. From September to early April is the best time to visit Greenland to witness the spectacular light displays. The auroras in Greenland can be seen up to 300 nights a year, making it a popular destination for aurora tours. The eastern and southern parts of Greenland are particularly advantageous for night-time aurora viewing. Besides enjoying the auroras, visitors can explore other beautiful sights such as the Qaleraliq Glacier and snow-covered mountains. Experiencing the pristine snowy landscapes by day and the dazzling auroras by night is truly extraordinary.
5. Sweden
To view the auroras in Sweden, head to the village of Abisko in the Lapland province of Kiruna, in northern Sweden. Its proximity to the Arctic Circle makes it an ideal location for aurora observation. At night, you will witness the magical display of colorful lights in the sky. Key spots for aurora viewing include Lake Torneträsk and Bear Mountain. Visit during the winter months from October to December to increase your chances of seeing the auroras, as low temperatures and reduced light pollution enhance the visibility and beauty of the auroras.
Each of these aurora viewing destinations offers a unique experience with climates and terrains suited for witnessing this extraordinary natural phenomenon. Most of these locations are ideal for winter visits, so plan your trip accordingly to fully enjoy the beauty of the auroras.
