The Northern Lights, also famous as Aurora Borealis, is a beautiful natural phenomenon globally. These lights can be seen in the sky above the Arctic and Antarctic Circles and mountainous areas. The air particles can create a light show thanks to the magnetic field. The lights swirl in different colors, depending on the type of gas particles they are colliding with. These lights are usually green but can also be red, yellow, or blue. Nature lights result from a complex magnetic process, and scientists are still not entirely sure how they work. The perfect time to observe these lights is during the solar maximum when more sunspots are on our star’s surface. They are a natural wonder that you can only see in the northern or southern sky. You need to be lucky to see this Phenomenon because they are unpredictable and cannot predict when they will appear. But where and when can you see this natural wonder? Here are some of the best locations to observe this natural in-awe Phenomenon at its best.
Finland
The Northern Lights are seen on average 200 nights a year in Finnish Lapland, and there are several destinations along the Arctic Circle offering spectacular views of the Aurora Borealis. The right time to see the Northern Lights in Finland is between September and March, when it is dark enough to be visible. The small village of Saariselkä sits on a hill 260 meters above sea level, giving visitors an unobstructed view of the sky. You can also observe them from your bed in one of Finland’s famous glass igloos.
Reykjavik, Iceland
Northern Lights can be seen in Reykjavik, Iceland, between September and April. The Aurora Borealis is visible for about seven months of a year here as it lies close to the Arctic Circle. And you will be happy to know that there are no hills or mountains in sight. You can also enjoy whale watching while you’re here, as Reykjavik is a major stopping point for the whales on their migration routes. It also has the most beautiful waterfalls in the world.
Canada
Northern lights are considered the most beautiful in Canada. You can see them in all parts of Canada during the winter as long as there is clear weather and no light pollution from cities or towns. You need to go out into the wilderness for that. The right time to observe them is between September to October and March – April. You can observe this natural wonder in Yukon, Northwest Territories, Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario, and Quebec. Canada is a large country, and the aurora borealis can be seen in different parts of Canada at different times.
Alaska
The perfect location to observe the Northern Lights, according to many Alaskans, is around Fairbanks. This area has very dark skies with little light pollution. The Northern Lights can be seen here from September to April. Alaska is a big place, and you will need to get away from the coastal cities for the best viewing. The region is extremely cold and snowy in winter. One of the best places to see this natural wonder is Denali National Park, approximately an hour’s drive from Fairbanks.
Svalbard Islands, Norway
The Svalbard Islands sit north of mainland Europe and are one of the best places to see the Northern Lights. The island is surrounded by water and very little light pollution, making it perfect for viewing this natural wonder. A good thing about Svalbard is that you can take a day trip from Norway, making getting there easy. If you want to visit the region in winter, make sure to bring your heavy coat! With CouponGot coupons and travel deals, you can save on your travel cost and essentials.
Tromso
Tromso sits in the north of Norway and is known as the Northern Lights city. The city has a lot of dark skies, which makes it perfect for viewing this natural wonder. Tromso has recently been voted the best place in the world to see the Northern Lights. If you’re looking to visit Tromso, make sure to check out the city’s tourism website for visiting locations. You can observe these phenomenal lights from September to March, but the best time for viewing is February.
Abisko National Park, Sweden
Located in northern Sweden near the Norwegian border, Abisko National Park has been named one of the top places on Earth to see the Northern Lights due to its clear skies and wide-open landscape. Sweden is the perfect place to stay if you’re looking for a more authentic outdoor experience in the northern-most regions of Scandinavia. The right time to visit this area is between December and March. The travel cost is also less compared to other countries. And if you avail of travel coupons and deals, you can save a lot on your travel expenses.
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Tromso, Norway
If you’re looking for a Northern Lights destination with all of the comforts of home, Tromso is the place for you. This Norwegian city is located within the Arctic Circle and offers many activities and attractions to keep you busy during your stay. The perfect time to visit for Northern Lights viewing is September to March. Norway is also one of the most expensive countries to visit in Europe, so be sure to use any coupons and deals when planning your trip.
Churchill, Manitoba
Churchill is located in the subarctic and is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights. The town has only 900 people, so there is little light pollution. There are also plenty of tour operators who can take you out into the wilderness to view this natural wonder. The city is also known as the world’s polar bear capital, so plenty of tours are available to view these majestic creatures.
Yellowknife, Northwest Territories
The city is located near the Arctic Circle and has only 20,000 people. The Aurora Village provides guided viewing excursions to see this natural wonder in all its glory. This city also has a lot of history and culture, so make sure you allow plenty of time to explore. It is also popular for visiting other natural wonders like Wood Buffalo National Park, home to one of the world’s largest herds of wood bison.
Russia
Most people think they have to go all the way to Scandinavia to see the Northern Lights, but Russia is a great place too. The best places are near Murmansk, above the Arctic Circle. There are many tours available from Moscow, or you can take a trip on the Trans-Siberian Railway. The railway is most famous for its length and travels through the Ural Mountains and crosses over Asia.
Copenhagen
The Northern Lights are often visible from Scandinavia, especially Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Denmark. Copenhagen is a great place to start your voyage of discovery because it’s well connected to other northern destinations by train and plane. The city is also lovely, with a charming old town and lively nightlife. So visiting this place will give you the best of both worlds.
The Bottom Line
The Northern Light is an amazing natural phenomenon in the Aurora Borealis (Northern Hemisphere) or Aurora Australis (Southern hemisphere). The lights are produced when highly charged electrons and protons from the sun collide with atoms in Earth’s atmosphere. The colors of the light depending on what type of gas is causing the light emission. The right time to see Northern Lights is typical during winter when it’s dark all night long, but there are some things you can do to increase your chances of seeing them. Go to a place with little pollution and check the aurora forecast to see if the conditions are right. The best places to view the Northern Lights are Alaska, Canada, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, and Finland. However, you can see them from other locations as well.