Visiting Norway to view the Northern Lights will be one of the most memorable experiences of your life. The Norwegian Arctic area is often regarded as one among the world’s most spectacular locations for seeing the northern lights. One of the most frequent misunderstandings about Norway is that you can view the northern lights from everywhere in the country. As you will learn as you continue reading, this is not exactly how things operate.
Although it is nearing 78° N, it is really above the Arctic Circle, which is where the Northern Lights are most frequent. As a result, if you do see the Northern Lights, they will almost certainly be in the southern sky. Some individuals even make the journey from Asia to see these spectacular displays of light!
For many years previous to the worldwide travel disruption of 2020-21, the number of people traveling from this area of the globe had been increasing.
There are certain locations in the southern hemisphere where you may view the aurora borealis, particularly during the darkest days of winter. In general, Norway has so much to offer that even if you never see the Northern Lights, you are sure to have an amazing experience. Tromso and the Lofoten Islands are the finest locations in Norway to view the Northern Lights.
The most essential thing to note right away is that there is absolutely no assurance that you will see the northern lights in Norway, no matter where you go. However, it is true that there are a number of things you may do to improve your odds.
The fundamental conditions are straightforward: complete darkness and a clear sky. Due to the midnight sun, the summer months in northern Norway are automatically ruled out due to the fact that there is light throughout the season, day and night.
Despite the fact that the Northern Lights are visible all year, they are only seen at night. Because the Norwegian summer is bright and the sun does not set in the northern regions of the country until late in the evening, the Aurora will not be seen. You should also avoid visiting in the middle of the winter, when the region’s weather is at its worst. The finest periods to see the aurora borealis are usually considered to be September-October and February-March.
Tromso
As you get closer to Tromso, you may see the Northern Lights. The city of Tromso, located at 69° N, in the heart of the aurora zone, is a favorite winter destination for Europeans looking for a weekend getaway where they may get a glimpse of the Aurora Borealis.
However, while they may sometimes be seen from the town, it is preferable to go outside of the city to obtain the greatest view because of the considerable light pollution it produces. Many of the local Northern Lights chases take place in the Lyngsalpene mountain range.
Lofoten Islands
Imagine the flashing lights reflected in the water if you believe the northern lights are lovely up in the sky. Go to the Lofoten Islands if you want to see it. Due to clear sky, long nights, and appropriate weather, the months of October, February, and March are considered the finest months to see northern lights on the Lofoten Islands. This serene island is known for its steep mountains and charming fishing towns, and it’s a favorite stop on coastal cruises.
Svalbard
Svalbard, located in the Arctic Ocean far north, is one of the finest locations on the planet to see the northern lights.
Svalbard, the polar bear’s home, is the most well-known polar bear-watching destination in Europe. Svalbard is the epitome of chilly and otherworldly beauty. Outside of Troms, this isolated archipelago is one of the best places to see the northern lights. A visit here is one to remember, since it is located halfway between mainland Norway and the North Pole.
Alta
Alta, which is extremely far north but yet accessible, is becoming a favorite northern lights destination, with a number of lodges devoted to the cause.
Varanger
It is situated in far northern Norway, beneath the auroral oval, and is known as the Varanger area. It will take a long trip to get to this area of the nation, but since it is so far off the main route, you will be rewarded with minimal light pollution and spectacular views of the northern lights above you. Base yourself in one of the tiny villages along the Barentshavet and spend your days exploring the Varangerhalvya Nasjonalpark in between evenings spent chasing the Northern Lights.
North Cape
The North Cape, which is situated in the municipality of Nordkapp and is the northernmost point in Europe that can be reached by driving, is the northernmost point in the world that can be reached by car. Despite the difficulty in getting here, this is one of the most unusual and off-the-beaten-path locations to see the lights.
In the event that you have access to a vehicle, going out on your own to look for the Northern Lights is a possibility. It is recommended that you embark on a trip with a knowledgeable guide, who will not only increase your chances of seeing the Aurora Borealis, but he will also know where to take you to ensure that you have the best possible experience.
Tips
Study photography techniques since photographing the northern lights is not the simplest thing to do while in the wilderness. Getting as far away from cities and their light pollution as possible can increase your chances of witnessing the Northern Lights. If there are clouds in the sky, you won’t be able to see much. So check the weather for clouds.
Maintain an optimistic frame of mind. When it comes to finding the right lighting, sometimes you just need a little bit of luck, so keep your hopes up and your camera at the ready.
You will not be required to carry any heavy-duty equipment. The majority of excursions, such as a snowmobile safari, will supply you with all of the necessary equipment. You will, however, need to prepare for the winter months.
Time Of Trip
When should you arrange a vacation to view the northern lights, how long should you allow yourself?
If you want to view the northern lights, we suggest that you stay at least 4-5 days, but the more time you have the better. Within the Arctic Circle, 10-12 days is considered to be the optimal length of time to spend there.
This will give you enough time to really explore the inlets, fjords, and islands of the northern, as well as enough time to catch a clear night if the weather turns unpredictable. You’ll also want to set aside some time to go on some unusual snow-related activities.
In the Arctic, you may see some of the largest marine creatures on the planet, and seeing an orca surfacing above the iron-grey seas off Tromso and Svalbard is a sight you will never forget for the rest of your life.
Seeing the aurora borealis is one of the most amazing sights on the planet, and it should definitely be on everyone’s bucket list.
