Northern Lights in Lapland
Aurora Hunting
Northern Lights Hunting, Lapland Overview
Thanks to its location above the Arctic Circle, Lapland offers some of the best chances to see the Northern lights, with visibility on clear nights from September to April. Popular locations for Northern Light or Aurora hunting include Rovaniemi, Levi, Saariselkä, Ylläs, and Inari, where minimal light pollution allows for spectacular displays. Guided tours can be booked online or through local operators, or through hotel.
While the lights can sometimes be seen from accommodations or even towns, guided tours increase the chances of finding the best viewing spots, often taking travelers deep into the wilderness. These tours come with options ranging from Aurora bus and minivan tours to snowmobile, reindeer, or husky sled excursions. For a more immersive experience, some tours include snowshoeing, photography guidance, or a traditional Finnish campfire with hot drinks and snacks. Many accommodations, such as glass igloos and Aurora cabins, provide a comfortable way to watch the Northern Lights from bed. Weather conditions and solar activity affect visibility, so staying for at least a few nights increases the chances of seeing the lights.
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Tips for Effectively Seeing the Northern Lights in Lapland
Choose a Dark Location – Avoid city lights by heading to remote areas, national parks, or designated Northern Lights viewing spots. The best locations include Levi, Saariselkä, Ylläs, Inari, and Rovaniemi's surrounding areas.
Check the Weather and Aurora Forecast – Clear skies are essential for a good view. Use weather apps to find locations with minimal cloud cover. Track solar activity using Aurora forecast apps or websites, which predict the likelihood of a strong display.
Stay for Several Nights – The Northern Lights are unpredictable. Increase your chances by staying at least 3 to 5 nights in Lapland, giving you multiple opportunities to catch them on a clear night.
Be Patient and Stay Outside – The lights can appear at any time but are most active between 9 PM and 2 AM. Dress warmly, as you may need to wait outdoors for extended periods.
Join a Guided Tour – Local guides know the best spots and have access to real-time data on Aurora activity. Some tours include snowmobiles, reindeer sleds, or photography assistance, making the experience even more memorable.
Stay in Aurora Accommodations – Glass igloos, Aurora cabins, and remote lodges offer panoramic views from your bed, so you don’t have to venture far to see the lights.
Avoid Full Moon Nights – A bright full moon can reduce visibility. Try to plan your visit around new moon phases for the darkest skies.
Bring a Camera with Manual Settings – The Northern Lights can be faint to the naked eye but appear stronger in photos. Use a tripod, long exposure settings, and a wide-aperture lens for the best shots.
Keep Expectations Realistic – The lights vary in intensity, from faint green glows to vibrant, dancing displays. While some nights offer spectacular views, others might be subtle, so enjoy the experience of being in Lapland regardless.
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