Where in Finland is Best for Northern Lights?

As you prepare for your Finnish adventure, you're likely wondering where to go to witness the breathtaking spectacle of the Northern Lights. Lapland, in northern Finland, is the holy grail for aurora enthusiasts, but don't assume it's the only spot to see this natural phenomenon. From the Arctic wilderness to the tranquil lakes of Lakeland, Finland offers a diverse range of destinations to increase your chances of witnessing the Northern Lights. In this post, we'll guide you through the best places to see the aurora borealis in Finland, so you can plan your trip and make the most of your time under the starry skies.

Key Takeaways:

• Lapland is the best region in Finland to see the Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, due to its location near the Arctic Circle and low light pollution.

• The Autumn and Winter months (September to April) offer the best opportunities to witness the Northern Lights in Finland, as the nights are darker and clearer.

• Some popular destinations for Finland Northern Lights sightings include Rovaniemi, Oulu, and Saariselka, which offer a range of activities and accommodations for visitors.

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Best Northern Lights Spots in Southern Finland

Where in Finland is best for Northern Lights? Astonishingly, Southern Finland offers some fantastic opportunities to witness the Northern Lights, despite being farther from the Arctic Circle. While the lights may not be as frequent or intense as in Lapland, you can still experience the magic of this natural phenomenon.

Helsinki and its surroundings

Finnish capital Helsinki and its surroundings are not typically associated with the Northern Lights, but you can still spot them on clear nights. Head to the city's outskirts, such as the Vuosaari Harbour, which offers minimal light pollution and a chance to see the lights dancing above the sea.

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Nuuksio National Park

With its lush forests and numerous lakes, Nuuksio National Park is an ideal spot to escape the city lights and increase your chances of seeing the Northern Lights. The park's dark skies and minimal artificial lighting make it an perfect location for stargazing and aurora spotting.

Park yourself at one of the many campsites or hiking trails in Nuuksio, and keep your eyes peeled for the sudden bursts of color that signal the start of the Northern Lights display. Be sure to dress warmly, as it can get chilly while waiting for and viewing the lights. And don't worry if you're not an experienced aurora hunter – the park's staff often organize guided Northern Lights tours during peak season.

Exploring the Northern Lights in Lapland

Lapland, located in the northernmost part of Finland, is a winter wonderland that offers a unique opportunity to witness the breathtaking display of the Northern Lights. As you venture into this Arctic region, you'll be surrounded by snow-covered landscapes, frozen lakes, and the mystical glow of the aurora borealis.

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Rovaniemi: The Official Hometown of Santa Claus

Claustrophobic or not, you'll feel the magic of Christmas and Rovaniemi Northern Lights adventure in the official hometown of Santa Claus. Located at the Arctic Circle, this charming town offers a range of Northern Lights tours, from snowmobile safaris to reindeer farm visits. Make sure to book your tour in advance, as the peak season can get quite busy!

Oulu: A City of Northern Lights and Winter Activities

Santafying your winter wonderland experience, Oulu is a city that offers a perfect blend of Northern Lights sightings and exciting winter activities. From skiing and snowboarding to ice fishing and dog sledding, you'll find plenty of ways to keep yourself entertained during the day.

Northern Lights enthusiasts, rejoice! Oulu is situated near the Arctic Circle, making it an ideal location for viewing the aurora borealis. Take a guided tour or head out on your own to find a spot away from the city lights. Just remember to dress warmly, as the temperatures can drop below -20°C! And if you're lucky, you might even spot the spectacular display of the Northern Lights reflecting off the frozen Gulf of Bothnia. Experience the true Northern Lights Oulu adventure.

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Off the Beaten Path: Alternative Northern Lights Destinations

Your search for the Northern Lights doesn't have to stop at the popular destinations. Venture off the beaten path to discover some hidden gems that offer an unforgettable experience.

Kemi: A Coastal Town with a Snow Castle

With its picturesque snow-covered landscapes and frozen sea, Kemi is a charming coastal town that's perfect for a Northern Lights adventure. Every winter, Kemi builds a magnificent Snow Castle, complete with snow walls, towers, and even a snow chapel. Imagine witnessing the Northern Lights dance above this winter wonderland – it's an experience you won't soon forget!

Sodankylä: A Remote Village with Minimal Light Pollution

Minimal light pollution and maximum Northern Lights action – that's what Sodankylä promises. Located in Finnish Lapland, this remote village offers some of the darkest skies in the country, making it an ideal spot to witness the aurora borealis in all its glory.

Guided Tours and Excursions

To make the most of your Northern Lights experience in Finland, consider joining a guided tour. The local guides know the best spots to catch a glimpse of the dancing lights and can provide fascinating insights into the phenomenon. Let them lead you on an adventure under the starlit sky.

Lights, camera, action! Sodankylä is a photographer's paradise, with its vast, open landscapes and minimal artificial lighting. Be prepared for subzero temperatures, but the reward is well worth it – the Northern Lights displays here are often more vivid and intense than in more populated areas. Just remember to dress warmly and stay safe, as the roads can be slippery and the wilderness can be unforgiving. Find out more: Are Northern Lights better in Norway or Finland?

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Northern Lights Online Tools: Chasing Aurora Like a Pro

The most useful Northern Lights online tools for a successful Aurora hunt. Are you about to hunt the Northern Lights on your own? Then you will find these resources helpful. If you are trying to see Aurora for the first time we recommend signing up for the Northern Lights Online Course where is explained step-by-step all you need to know to see the Northern Lights in an easy way.

1. Northern Lights essential online tools designed for beginners to help you see Aurora like the handy Aurora Mobile App and Northern Lights Online Course will help you to understand how Aurora works and to monitor real-time activity.

2. The Northern Lights Forecast for 3 days and long-term Aurora forecast for up to 27 days ahead can be found here: Geophysical Institute Forecast, NOAA Aurora Forecast, Spaceweatherlive Forecast or in the Northern Lights App.

3. Find the best Aurora spots with the light pollution map and cloud cover prediction.

4. Northern Lights activity in real-time: Real-time Aurora activity (worldwide magnetometers), Solar Wind activity, Sun's activity, Aurora live Boreal webcams list or Aurora App.

5. Additional resources to know when it will be dark enough Darkness graph & Map and how much the moon will illuminate the sky Moon Phase + Moonrise & Moonset.

6. If you decide to go with professional Aurora hunters here you can find the top-rated Aurora Tours.

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To wrap up

With this in mind, you're now equipped to begin on a Northern Lights adventure in Finland like a pro! You've got the scoop on the best spots to chase the aurora borealis, from Lapland's snowy wilderness to the picturesque lakes of Eastern Finland. So, grab your camera, bundle up, and get ready to witness nature's light show in all its glory. Note, the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, so be prepared for the unexpected – but with a little luck and these insider tips, you'll be dancing under the stars in no time!

FAQ

Q: What is the best time of year to see the Northern Lights in Finland?

A: The best month to see the Northern Lights in Finland is from late August to early April, when the nights are dark enough to view the spectacle. However, the peak season for Northern Lights sightings is from December to March, when the nights are longest and darkest. During this time, the aurora borealis is typically most active around the equinoxes in March and September.

Q: Which regions in Finland offer the best opportunities to see the Northern Lights?

A: Lapland in northern Finland is the best region to see the Northern Lights, also known as the aurora borealis. The region's location near the Arctic Circle and low light pollution make it an ideal spot for viewing the phenomenon. Specifically, the areas around Rovaniemi, Inari and Oulu offer excellent opportunities to see the Northern Lights. Additionally, the eastern part of Finnish Lapland, including the regions of Kuusamo and Kainuu, are also known for their high probability of clear sightings.

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Q: Are there any specific locations or activities that can increase my chances of seeing the Northern Lights in Finland?

A: Yes, there are several locations and activities that can increase your chances of seeing the Northern Lights in Finland. Consider visiting national parks like Oulangan, which offer minimal light pollution and are known for their excellent Northern Lights displays. You can also take part in guided Northern Lights tours or safaris, which often include activities like snowshoeing, dog sledding, or skiing under the stars. Additionally, many hotels and resorts in Lapland offer Northern Lights wake-up calls and viewing packages, which can help you make the most of your experience.