Chasing Aurora Borealis: Best Places to Experience the Northern Lights

Chasing Aurora Borealis: Best Places to Experience the Northern Lights (Image: Canva)

There are no other natural marvels that will attract the human mind as much as the Aurora Borealis or the Northern Lights do. These are the green, purple, and pink intertwined ribbons fluttering on the polar night skies that leave an unforgettable impression. Although sightseeing is at the mercy of the sun and the weather, there are always certain locations that give a good opportunity to observe the brightest light show presented by nature.

Tromso, Norway
Tromso, dubbed the Gateway to the Arctic, is one of the most convenient and reliable destinations to watch the Northern Lights. It is situated north of the Arctic Circle and has long polar nights, clear skies, and well-developed tourism infrastructure.

Abisko, Sweden
In Swedish Lapland, the small village of Abisko is known to have almost ideal viewing conditions. The region boasts the effect known as the Blue Hole, whereby local microclimates ensure that the skies are clearer than in other areas.

Rovaniemi, Finland
From glass igloos to current lodges, accommodation is meant to be as much of a viewing experience as you can get out of your bed. Finnish Lapland is one of the regions with the longest seasons of the Northern Lights, which lasts from September to April and is therefore a good destination among tourists.

Reykjavik and Beyond, Iceland
The rocks of volcanoes, glaciers and waterfalls in Iceland make the scenery of this country interesting to view the aurora. Although the city itself has views of the lights, taking a trip out into darker spaces such as the Thingvellir National Park or the Snaefellsnes Peninsula increases the likelihood.

Fairbanks, Alaska, USA
One of the best places to see the aurora, other than in Europe, is Fairbanks. The relative dryness of its climate and its inland position result in clear nights. August to April is the peak season, and special lodges can be used where the wake-up call is activated once the aurora is visible.

Yellowknife, Canada
Yellowknife is the capital of the Northwest Territories, which is known as the Aurora Capital of Canada. The low light pollution and flat terrain of the area make viewing conditions perfect. Aurora activity can be seen on most clear nights, and Yellowknife is one of the best places to see it in North America.

Svalbard, Norway
A more adventurous option is the remote Svalbard archipelago, where one stands a chance of witnessing the infrequent daytime aurora. Being much further north, the region has long polar nights, and the aurora is visible even in the middle of the day.