Northern Lights in Norway: Best Places to See Them
The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis , are one of nature’s most mesmerizing phenomena. Norway, with its pristine Arctic landscapes and long, dark winters, is one of the best places in the world to witness this celestial spectacle. If you’re planning a trip to see the Northern Lights, here’s a guide to the best locations, optimal viewing conditions, and practical tips for an unforgettable experience.
1. When to See the Northern Lights
The Northern Lights are visible in Norway from late September to early April, during the dark winter months. The best time to view them is between 9 PM and 2 AM , though they can appear anytime after sunset if conditions are right.
- Peak Season: December to February offers the longest nights and highest chances of clear skies.
- Solar Activity: The intensity of the lights depends on solar activity, which varies throughout the season. Check aurora forecasts (e.g., via apps or websites like Aurora Service Europe ) for real-time updates.
2. Best Places to See the Northern Lights in Norway
a. Tromsø
Known as the “Gateway to the Arctic,” Tromsø is one of the most popular destinations for Northern Lights hunting. Located within the Arctic Circle, it offers excellent infrastructure, including guided tours, cozy accommodations, and vibrant cultural experiences.
- Why Visit?
- High probability of aurora sightings due to its northern location.
- Wide range of activities, such as dog sledding, snowmobiling, and fjord cruises.
- Accessible by plane from Oslo or other major cities.
- Top Viewing Spots:
- Tromsø Wilderness Centre: Offers remote locations away from city lights.
- Fjellheisen Cable Car: Provides panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and skies.
b. Lofoten Islands
The Lofoten Islands combine dramatic landscapes with opportunities to see the Northern Lights. This archipelago is famous for its jagged peaks, picturesque fishing villages, and serene beaches.
- Why Visit?
- Unique combination of natural beauty and aurora displays.
- Less crowded than Tromsø, offering a more intimate experience.
- Top Viewing Spots:
- Reine and Å: Stunning coastal villages with minimal light pollution.
- Utakleiv Beach: A magical spot to watch the lights dance over the ocean.
c. Alta
Nicknamed the “Town of the Northern Lights,” Alta is renowned for its clear skies and high frequency of auroral activity. It’s also home to the Northern Lights Cathedral , a modern architectural marvel inspired by the phenomenon.
- Why Visit?
- Consistently ranked as one of the best places for aurora visibility.
- Excellent facilities for winter sports and outdoor adventures.
- Top Viewing Spots:
- Sorrisniva Igloo Hotel: Stay in an ice hotel and enjoy guided aurora hunts.
- Alta Valley: Remote areas with unobstructed views of the sky.
d. Svalbard
For a truly unique experience, head to Svalbard , an Arctic archipelago located halfway between mainland Norway and the North Pole. Here, you can witness the Northern Lights even during the day during the polar night (mid-November to mid-January).
- Why Visit?
- Extreme northern location ensures exceptional aurora visibility.
- Opportunity to see polar bears and explore glaciers.
- Top Viewing Spots:
- Longyearbyen: The main settlement, surrounded by untouched wilderness.
- Platåberget Mountain: Offers elevated views of the auroras.
e. Kirkenes
Located near the Russian border, Kirkenes is another fantastic destination for Northern Lights enthusiasts. It’s known for its remote wilderness and authentic Sami culture.
- Why Visit?
- Few tourists, ensuring a peaceful and immersive experience.
- Unique activities like king crab safaris and reindeer sledding.
- Top Viewing Spots:
- Snowhotel Kirkenes: Stay in a snow-built hotel and join guided aurora tours.
- Bøkfjorden Fjord: A secluded area perfect for stargazing and aurora watching.
f. Senja
Norway’s second-largest island, Senja , offers breathtaking scenery and quiet spots to observe the Northern Lights. Its rugged coastline and towering mountains create a stunning backdrop for the auroras.
- Why Visit?
- Off-the-beaten-path destination with fewer crowds.
- Scenic drives along the “National Tourist Route.”
- Top Viewing Spots:
- Husøy Village: A charming fishing village surrounded by water.
- Segla Mountain: Hike to the summit for unparalleled views of the lights.
3. Tips for Seeing the Northern Lights
a. Choose a Clear Night
Cloud cover is the biggest obstacle to seeing the auroras. Check weather forecasts and aim for nights with clear skies.
b. Escape Light Pollution
Head away from towns and cities to rural areas where artificial lighting won’t interfere with your view.
c. Dress Warmly
Winter temperatures in Norway can drop well below freezing. Wear thermal layers, insulated boots, gloves, and a hat to stay comfortable during long waits outdoors.
d. Be Patient
The Northern Lights are unpredictable. You may need to wait several hours or visit multiple nights to catch a good display.
e. Join a Guided Tour
If you’re unsure about navigating the terrain or finding optimal viewing spots, consider booking a guided Northern Lights tour. Many operators offer transportation, photography assistance, and expert knowledge.
f. Bring a Camera
Capture the moment with a DSLR camera set to manual mode. Use a tripod, wide-angle lens, and long exposure settings (e.g., 10–20 seconds) to photograph the lights.
4. Activities Beyond Aurora Hunting
While chasing the Northern Lights, take advantage of Norway’s other winter attractions:
- Dog Sledding: Experience the thrill of mushing through snowy landscapes.
- Snowmobiling: Explore vast Arctic terrains at high speeds.
- Ice Fishing: Try your hand at catching fish through frozen lakes.
- Cultural Experiences: Learn about Sami traditions, including reindeer herding and joiking (traditional singing).
