Experience nature's most spectacular light show. Expert-guided astronomy vacations to witness the mesmerizing Aurora Borealis dancing across Arctic skies.
Plan Your Aurora AdventurePrime locations for Aurora Borealis viewing across the Arctic Circle
Tromsø, Lofoten Islands, North Cape
Norway's Arctic regions offer some of the world's most reliable Northern Lights viewing. Tromsø, known as the "Gateway to the Arctic," sits directly under the auroral oval. Check current time and sunrise/sunset in Norway.
Reykjavik, Thingvellir, Jökulsárlón
Iceland's unique position on the edge of the Arctic Circle provides stunning aurora displays against dramatic volcanic landscapes, glaciers, and geothermal hot springs. View Iceland's current time and daylight hours.
Lapland, Rovaniemi, Ivalo
Finnish Lapland offers a magical aurora experience with the added charm of snowy forests, reindeer, and the possibility of seeing the lights from glass igloos. Check Finland's time and sunrise/sunset schedule.
Abisko, Kiruna, Swedish Lapland
Abisko National Park is famous for its "blue hole" - a microclimate that provides exceptionally clear skies, making it one of the best aurora viewing spots on Earth. View Sweden's current time and daylight information.
Yukon, Yellowknife, Churchill
Canada's northern territories offer pristine wilderness viewing with Yellowknife claiming to have the most aurora sightings in the world due to its location under the auroral oval. Check Canada's time zones and sunrise/sunset times.
Fairbanks, Denali, Nome
Alaska's Interior, particularly around Fairbanks, sits directly beneath the auroral oval, offering spectacular displays with the added adventure of America's Last Frontier. View USA time zones and Alaska daylight hours.
Timing is everything for optimal aurora viewing
The Northern Lights are most active during the winter months when nights are longest and darkest. Solar activity follows an 11-year cycle, with peak aurora activity occurring during solar maximum periods. According to NASA's solar cycle predictions, we're currently in an active period offering excellent viewing opportunities.
September to March offers the longest, darkest nights. December through February provides maximum darkness but colder temperatures.
Peak aurora activity occurs between 9 PM and 2 AM local time. Plan to stay out for 3-4 hours for the best chance of viewing.
New moon or crescent moon phases provide the darkest skies. However, auroras can still be visible during full moons if activity is strong.
Monitor the NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center for aurora forecasts and geomagnetic storm alerts 24-48 hours in advance.
Maximize your chances of witnessing the aurora
Book at least 3-5 nights in your destination. Weather and solar activity are unpredictable, so multiple nights significantly increase your chances of clear skies and aurora displays.
Travel at least 30-40 km outside cities for optimal darkness. Many tour operators offer transportation to remote viewing locations with minimal light interference.
Arctic temperatures can drop to -30°C (-22°F). Wear thermal base layers, insulated mid-layers, waterproof outer shells, winter boots, and hand/toe warmers for comfort during long viewing sessions.
Bring a DSLR or mirrorless camera with manual settings, wide-angle lens (14-24mm), sturdy tripod, and extra batteries (cold drains them quickly). Practice settings before your trip.
Apps like "My Aurora Forecast" or "Aurora Alerts" provide real-time notifications and KP index readings to help you know when aurora activity is highest in your location.
Local guides know the best spots, monitor forecasts, and provide transportation to locations with clear skies. Many offer photography instruction and hot beverages during viewing.
Tools and information for planning your aurora adventure
Official source for aurora forecasts, geomagnetic storm warnings, and solar activity monitoring.
Visit NOAA Space WeatherComprehensive scientific information about auroras, including causes, solar cycles, and viewing tips.
Explore NASA ResourcesReal-time aurora activity predictions specific to Norwegian viewing locations with detailed KP index data.
Check Norway ForecastsCloud cover predictions combined with aurora forecasts specifically for Iceland's viewing conditions.
View Iceland AuroraScientific aurora research, forecasting tools, and educational resources from leading aurora researchers.
UAF Aurora Forecast