Ever wanted to witness the magical Northern Lights dancing across the night sky? Then pack your bags, you're going to Finland. This Nordic country is one of the best places on Earth to spot the Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights. With sparse light pollution and prime location in the Arctic and sub-Arctic circles, Finland offers ideal conditions to view this spectacular natural phenomenon.
Did you know that over 80% of tourists miss the Northern Lights due to the lack of Aurora knowledge? Don't let that be you! The right time and the right place are the key. Northern Lights Online Course and Aurora mobile app designed for beginners will significantly increase your chances.
Designed For Beginners
Designed For Beginners
In the northernmost parts of Finland, the Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights, illuminate the night sky from late August through early April.
Before going out for your first Aurora hunt take Northern Lights Online Course where you will learn all you need to know to successfully hunt for the Northern Lights. This course is designed for beginners so you don't need to worry about not knowing much yet.
Three of the best places to witness this spectacular sight are:
Inari is a village in Lapland surrounded by lakes and forests. It's home to the Sami people, indigenous reindeer herders, and a perfect spot for Aurora hunting. Head to the shores of Lake Menesjärvi for the best views.
Utsjoki is Finland’s northernmost municipality, located along the scenic Teno River. With little light pollution, you'll have a front row seat to the Aurora show. For the most dazzling display, venture out of town to the Tenojoki Riverbank.
Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus, is ideal for Aurora viewing. Take a nighttime snowshoe or cross country ski tour through the snow-covered pine forests. Or go dog sledding - the silence will make the colors of the Aurora even more magical!
The Northern Lights are most visible between 6 pm to 3 am when the sky is darkest. Check the Aurora forecast for the best viewing chances. Pack warm clothes, a flashlight, tripod, and camera to capture the Aurora in all its glory.
Finland’s pristine natural setting and winter wonderland landscape make it a perfect destination for any Aurora enthusiast. So start planning your adventure under the Northern Lights!
Seeing the Aurora Borealis is a magical experience, and Finland is one of the best places on Earth to witness the Northern Lights in all their glory. The best time to spot the Aurora Borealis in Finland is between late August and early April.
Inari
In the far north of Finnish Lapland, Inari is a prime spot for aurora viewing. Its remote location away from city lights offers pitch-black skies and the best chances to see the Northern Lights. The area around Lake Inari is ideal, with spots like the Juutuanjoki River Valley and the village of Nellim.
Utsjoki
At the northernmost tip of Finland, the municipality of Utsjoki provides a frontier feel and more opportunities to glimpse the aurora. Head to the wilderness around the Teno River, the village of Nuorgam, or the Norwegian border. With little light pollution, Utsjoki’s skies ignite with the northern lights.
Rovaniemi
Although closer to civilization, Rovaniemi still offers good opportunities to view the Northern Lights, especially at spots like Ounasjoki River, Pilke Science Center, and Napapiiri. Take a sleigh ride through snow-covered forests or join a guided aurora tour. Rovaniemi sees the northern lights from August to April, with the best visibility between 10 pm and 3 am when the sky is darkest.
The most common Northern Lights questions are: When is the best time to see the northern lights in Finland? Anytime between late August and early April, especially around the equinoxes. Where are the best places to see the Aurora Borealis in Finland? Head to the northern reaches of Lapland, especially Inari, Utsjoki and Rovaniemi. Can I see the northern lights every night? No, the Aurora Borealis is often unpredictable and requires clear, dark skies to be visible. Check the Aurora forecasts for the best chances.
Have some questions about seeing the Aurora Borealis in Finland? Here are some of the most common FAQs to help you prepare for this stunning natural phenomenon.
When is the best time to see the Aurora Borealis in Finland? The Aurora Borealis is most visible in Finland between September and March. The long, dark nights mean the sky is dark for most of the day, increasing your chances of spotting the lights. The Aurora Borealis is often most active around midnight.
Where are the top places to view the Aurora Borealis in Finland? Some of the best locations in Finland to spot the Aurora Borealis include:
Inari: Located in Lapland, far from city lights with pristine, unpolluted skies.
Utsjoki: The northernmost municipality in Finland, offering remote wilderness and Sami culture.
Rovaniemi: The official hometown of Santa Claus is located right on the Arctic Circle, a prime viewing spot.
Do I need any special equipment? To view the Aurora Borealis, you'll want to dress very warmly, in thermal undergarments, insulated pants, coat, hat, gloves and boots. You may want to bring a flashlight with a red light to preserve your night vision. A camera on a tripod can help capture photos, but the lights are often visible to the naked eye. Binoculars are not usually needed and can actually make the lights appear duller.
With the right place and time, a little preparation, and a sense of adventure, you'll be gazing in awe at the spectacular Aurora Borealis lighting up the night sky in no time. The dazzling display of colors and movement is a once in a lifetime experience you'll never forget.
What can you expect to see? Aurora can be seen in various shapes and every show is unique. Find out more what you can be looking forward to see.
Now you have all the info you need to plan an epic trip to see the Northern Lights in Finland. Whether you choose the quiet wilderness of Inari, the remote Sami villages of Utsjoki, or the bustling tourist hub of Rovaniemi as your base, you really can't go wrong. Bundle up, look north, and be prepared for a jaw-dropping display of color dancing across the night sky. The Aurora Borealis is one of nature's greatest wonders, and seeing it in person in the pristine Finnish Lapland is an experience you'll never forget. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your adventure and get ready to be wowed by the magic of the Northern Lights. The trip of a lifetime awaits!
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