A Beginner’s Guide to Planning an Epic Northern Lights Holiday in Lapland, Finland

A Beginner’s Guide to Planning an Epic Northern Lights Holiday in Lapland, Finland

Have you ever dreamed of witnessing the spectacular Northern Lights in person? Well, pack your bags because Finnish Lapland needs to be at the top of your bucket list. Located in the northernmost part of Finland, Lapland is one of the best places on Earth to spot the Aurora Borealis. As night falls over the snowy Arctic tundra, vibrant greens and reds light up the sky, dancing to their own celestial rhythm. The colors swirl and shimmer, filling you with a sense of wonder and peace as you gaze up at the heavens. The show is nothing short of magical.

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Where Is Lapland Located and Why Visit for the Northern Lights?

1. Where Is Lapland Located and Why Visit for the Northern Lights?

Lapland is located in northern Finland, Europe’s last great wilderness. This magical region stretches across the top of Finland, Norway, Sweden, and parts of northwest Russia. Finnish Lapland occupies about a third of Finland’s total area.

Why is Lapland the best place to see the Aurora Borealis? The further north you go, the better your chances are of seeing the dazzling Northern Lights, and Lapland is situated within the Arctic and sub-Arctic circle. The long, dark winter nights, pristine surroundings, and limited light pollution also make it an ideal location for Aurora spotting.

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In Lapland, the Northern Lights frequently dance across the sky in an array of colors like pale green, pink, violet, and red. Witnessing the Aurora Borealis in person is a truly breathtaking experience. The feeling of standing under the night sky lit up by the colorful, shimmering lights is magical and fills you with a sense of peace and wonder.

The Northern Lights are often very active between 10 pm and 3 am. The best time to see them in Lapland is between late August and early April when the nights are long and dark. Your chances are especially good around the equinoxes in September and March.

Lapland has many excellent places to view the Northern Lights, including Saariselkä, Ivalo, Nellim, Inari, and Luosto. These destinations offer scenic spots with little light pollution, as well as cozy cabins and hotels where you can stay warm while Aurora hunting.

Checking the 3-day and 27-day forecasts from the University of Oulu can help determine the likelihood of spotting the Aurora on any given day. The short-term forecast provides details on the intensity and location of the Lights each night. With the right conditions and a little patience, you’ll be gazing up at one of nature’s greatest wonders in no time.

What's the Best Time to See the Northern Lights in Lapland?

So you've decided to take the trip of a lifetime to see the Aurora Borealis in person. Fantastic choice! Now, the question is: when should you visit Lapland to have the best chance of seeing the Northern Lights?

The Aurora Borealis is most visible between late August and early April in Finnish Lapland. The longer nights during these months mean more opportunities to spot the Northern Lights. The autumn and spring shoulder seasons of September-October and March-April can also be excellent times to visit, with smaller crowds and lower prices.

For the brightest Northern Lights, aim for the equinoxes in March and September. Around these dates, the Aurora is often very active and vibrant. The winter months of December through February are also popular, with nearly polar night conditions allowing you to see the Aurora for most of the night. Just be prepared for very cold temperatures!

Avoid the summer months of June and July - the nearly 24 hours of daylight make the Northern Lights impossible to see.

The Northern Lights are often most visible around midnight, so look to the northern horizon in the hours around midnight for your best chance of an amazing show. Of course, the Aurora is unpredictable, so be on the lookout for activity and get away from light pollution whenever the sky is clear.

Check the local Aurora forecasts and activity before heading out each night. Websites like Aurora Service offer 3-day forecasts and alerts to let you know when activity is expected to increase. With the right timing and a little luck, you'll be gazing up at the spectacular, shimmering lights dancing across the sky in no time. Happy hunting!

Top 5 Places to See the Aurora Borealis in Finnish Lapland

Finnish Lapland is one of the best places on Earth to witness the spectacular Northern Lights. Its location within the Arctic Circle, sparse population, and pristine natural environments make it an ideal destination for Aurora chasing. Here are the top 5 spots to see the lights dance across the sky:

The village of Saariselkä is a popular base for Aurora hunting, with several Aurora cabins and lodges on the outskirts of town. Its location in the middle of boreal forest and away from light pollution offers prime viewing conditions.

Urho Kekkonen National Park is one of the most remote areas in Lapland. Its main attraction is the Aurora town of Menesjärvi, located on a peninsula in a lake and only accessible by boat in the summer or snowmobile in winter. The natural beauty and seclusion make it a peaceful place to observe the Aurora.

The Aurora Village in Ivalo is located right on the banks of Lake Inari and features traditional timber cabins, saunas, and an Aurora alert system. They offer Aurora photography workshops and snowshoeing under the Northern Lights.

Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort in Saariselkä is a world-renowned resort featuring glass igloos for unobstructed views of the night sky and Aurora from the comfort of your bed. They also have an Aurora cabin, restaurant and husky farm onsite.

Planning an epic Northern Lights holiday in Lapland is a magical experience. Witnessing the Aurora Borealis dance across the Arctic sky in person is a stunning natural phenomenon that should be on everyone’s bucket list. With the right location, timing, patience and photography skills, you'll be capturing your own stunning shots of the Northern Lights in no time.

How to Use the Aurora Forecast to Plan Your Trip

To experience the magical Aurora Borealis in person, you need to time your trip right. The Northern Lights are active year-round in Finnish Lapland, but they are often obscured by daylight and more vibrant displays are visible between late August and early April when the nights are longest.

Using the Aurora Forecast

The key to seeing a spectacular light show is using an Aurora forecast to determine the best dates for viewing. Two of the most popular forecasts are provided by the University of Oulu Sodankylä Geophysical Observatory and the Finnish Meteorological Institute. They offer predictions 3 days to 4 weeks in advance so you can plan your trip accordingly.

The forecasts measure geomagnetic activity on a scale from 0 to 9, called the Kp index. A higher Kp index means a higher chance of spotting the lights. Generally, a Kp index of 5 or more often results in visible Northern Lights. Check the forecasts daily in the week leading up to your trip and once you arrive. When the Kp index is 5 or above, head out around 9 or 10 pm to a spot away from city lights. On the other hand even Kp index 2-3 can lead to an unforgettable show.

The lights often start as a faint glow low on the horizon, gradually intensifying and sometimes dancing across much of the sky. Displays can last from a few minutes to several hours. Even if the forecast is high, the lights are unpredictable and not guaranteed, so patience and persistence pay off. Bundle up, bring a thermos of something hot to drink, a flashlight with a red light to preserve your night vision, and a camera to capture the magic.

With the right conditions and a little luck, you'll be dazzled by the Northern Lights shimmering and swirling in the Arctic sky. An epic, unforgettable experience you can only have in Finnish Lapland.

Tips for Photographing the Northern Lights With Your Smartphone

To capture the beauty of the Northern Lights, you don’t need an expensive DSLR camera. Your smartphone can work great for basic shots of the Aurora Borealis. Here are some tips to help you photograph this natural wonder with your phone:

Use Night Mode

Enable night mode on your phone, if available. This will allow the camera to take in more light to properly expose the shot. iPhones and many Android phones like Samsung and Google Pixels offer a dedicated night mode for low-light photos. If your phone lacks a night mode, you can download a third-party camera app that provides one.

Keep the Camera Steady

Since you'll be shooting in low light, it's important to keep the camera as still as possible. Use a tripod or place your phone on a stable surface like a rock or railing. If a tripod isn't possible, try bracing your arms against a solid object to minimize shake. Any movement will result in blurring.

Capture Multiple Shots

The Northern Lights are constantly changing shape and intensity. Take several shots in a row to capture the lights at their brightest and in different formations. You can then review the shots later and pick your favorites. Continuously shooting also increases your chances of getting at least a few good, clear images.

Adjust Exposure and Focus

In your phone's camera app, manually adjust the exposure by swiping up or down on the screen. Make small adjustments until the lights are visible and properly exposed. You may also need to manually focus on the lights, especially if other objects like trees are in the foreground. Tap on the brightest part of the lights on your screen to focus the camera.

Edit Your Shots (Optional)

Apps like Snapseed, VSCO, and Adobe Lightroom offer editing tools to enhance your Northern Lights photos. You can adjust brightness, contrast, color, and more. But editing is optional, as natural looking shots of the colorful lights dancing across the sky will still turn out great!

With some experimenting, you'll be capturing stunning photos of the Aurora Borealis in no time. Then you can share your shots and inspire others to witness nature's dazzling light show in person.

Expert Photography Tips for Capturing the Aurora Borealis with Camera

To capture the stunning beauty of the Aurora Borealis on camera, keep these expert photography tips in mind:

Use a tripod

The Aurora can be dim at times, so using a tripod is essential for stability and capturing details. Place your camera on the tripod and set a long exposure, typically 15-30 seconds. A longer exposure means more light is let into the camera, allowing you to capture fainter Auroras.

Use a wide-angle lens

A wide-angle lens allows you to capture more of the sky and surrounding landscape. The wider the angle, the more of the Aurora you'll capture. A focal length of 24mm or less works well for most Aurora shots. If you only have a smartphone, don’t worry – you can still get great shots. Just make sure to hold the phone as steadily as possible.

Increase your ISO

Higher ISO settings make the camera more sensitive to light which is perfect for low light situations like photographing the Aurora. Start around 800 to 1600 ISO and adjust based on the brightness of the Aurora. Don’t go too high though or your photos will become grainy.

Shoot in RAW image format

RAW image format gives you more flexibility editing your photos. You can adjust settings like exposure, contrast and white balance without diminishing quality. RAW files also contain more data than JPEGs so you have more latitude for corrections and enhancements.

Get foreground interest

Don't just capture the sky, include landscape features in your composition like trees, mountains or lakes. Having a foreground element helps give a sense of scale and makes for a more compelling photo. Position the Aurora behind the landscape feature for the most dramatic effect.

Following these tips will allow you to capture truly stunning photographs of the enchanting Northern Lights. With the right camera settings, a little practice and some patience, you'll be taking Aurora portraits like a pro in no time!

Frequently Asked Questions About the Northern Lights in Lapland

Planning a trip to see the Northern Lights in Lapland, Finland leads to a lot of questions. Here are some of the most frequently asked ones to help you prepare for this bucket list adventure.

When is the best time to see the Northern Lights in Lapland?

The Aurora Borealis is most active during the winter months in Lapland, from late August through early April. The long, dark nights provide the best viewing conditions. The peak months are between December and February when the nights are the longest.

Where are the top places to spot the Northern Lights in Lapland?

Some of the prime locations for catching the show include:

Levi - A popular ski resort town with glass igloos and Aurora cabins for overnight viewing.
Kilpisjärvi - At the western border, secluded with pristine nature.
Muonio - A quiet village along the Muonionjoki River, perfect for snowshoeing and cross country skiing under the lights.
Saariselkä - A hub for winter activities with luxury glass igloos at Northern Lights Village.

How accurate are the Aurora forecasts?

The 3-day forecasts can predict the likelihood of visible Northern Lights with about 60-70% accuracy. They analyze solar wind activity and geomagnetic disturbances. The further out the forecast, the less reliable it becomes. The 27-day forecast is more speculative but can indicate periods of potential activity to monitor. The lights are often most dramatic during the peak of the 11-year solar cycle, but can appear at any time so keep looking up!

Any tips for photographing the Northern Lights?

Use a smartphone, DSLR or mirrorless camera on a tripod. Set to manual mode with high ISO (1600-3200), wide aperture (f/2.8-4), and long exposure (5-30 seconds). A remote shutter release or timer minimizes shake. Capture both the landscape and upwards for the full effect. Bracket your shots at different exposures. Be patient—it can take 100 shots to get a few gems!

The Northern Lights await you in Lapland! With the right place and time, a little luck, and some photography practice, you'll be dazzled by the greatest light show on Earth.

What to Pack for a Northern Lights Holiday in Lapland

Packing for a Northern Lights holiday in Lapland requires balancing gear for cold weather with lighter items for indoor use. Here are some essentials to bring:

Base layers

Base layers, like thermal undergarments and socks, will keep you warm without bulk. Look for wool or synthetics like polypropylene. Pack a few pairs in case one gets wet.

Insulating layers

Bring insulating mid-layers like fleece pants, tops, and jackets. A down jacket is ideal for the coldest nights. Multiple lighter layers will keep you warmer than a single heavy coat.

Outer shell

A waterproof and windproof jacket and snow pants will protect against the elements. Look for breathable materials like Gore-Tex that won’t make you overheat indoors.

Hat, gloves, and scarf

Much of your body heat escapes through your extremities, so pack a warm hat, insulated gloves, and a scarf. Mittens are warmer than gloves. Thermal liners can add extra insulation.

Comfortable walking boots

Bring insulated boots rated for -20°C or below with rugged treads for icy conditions. Pack shoe grips or mini-spikes for extra traction. Also bring comfortable shoes for indoors.

Camera

Don’t forget your camera! A DSLR camera works best for night sky photography but you can also get great shots using a smartphone. Use a tripod to keep it steady and increase the ISO for low light. Play around with shutter speed and aperture to get the results you want.

To capture the dancing lights, use a longer exposure, typically 5 to 30 seconds. Focus on the infinity setting, and shoot in RAW image format. A wide-angle lens captures more of the sky.

Other useful items: flashlight, hand warmers, sleeping bag, map of the area, chargers/portable charger, and any important medicines. Enjoy your adventure in Lapland and happy Northern Lights hunting!

Experiencing the Magic of the Aurora Borealis in Lapland, Finland

Once darkness falls over Lapland, keep your eyes on the night sky—you never know when the show might start! Witnessing the Aurora Borealis in person is a magical experience unlike any other.

The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are caused by charged particles from the sun interacting with the Earth's magnetic field. They appear as colorful, dancing lights in the sky, ranging from pale green and pink to deep crimson and purple. The lights seem to dance and swirl across the sky, a natural phenomenon you have to see to believe.

The best time to view the Aurora Borealis in Lapland is between late August and early April when the nights are the longest. The area within the Arctic Circle, including Lapland, Finland, offers prime viewing opportunities with little light pollution and frequent clear nights. Head to the countryside away from city lights for the best chance of spotting the lights.

Some of the top places to see the Aurora Borealis in Lapland include:

Kilpisjärvi: A small village in the Arm of Finland near the border of Sweden with open wilderness perfect for Aurora viewing.
Inari: A lake district with many secluded cabins and cottages surrounded by nature.
Ivalo: A hub town in Lapland but still dark enough for Aurora spotting. Head to the Ivalo River or Lake Inari.
Urho Kekkonen National Park: A massive park with opportunities for activities by day and Aurora hunting by night.

Checking the Aurora forecast can help determine the likelihood of spotting the lights on a given night. The 3-day forecast predicts the intensity and location of the Aurora, while the 27-day forecast provides the solar wind data to determine the potential strength of geomagnetic storms that could produce bright Auroras.

While a DSLR camera will capture the best photos, you can still get great shots with a smartphone. Use a tripod to keep the camera still, and avoid using flash. Experiment with different exposure times, ISO levels and aperture settings. Capture the landscape in the foreground to give context.

The Northern Lights are a natural wonder that everyone should experience at least once. A trip to Lapland will allow you to tick this off your bucket list in one of the best places on earth to witness the Aurora Borealis.

Conclusion

So there you have it, a beginner's guide to planning an epic Northern Lights adventure in Lapland, Finland. Now that you know the ins and outs of Aurora hunting in this winter wonderland, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, grab your warmest layers, charge your camera batteries and head north. The dazzling Aurora Borealis are waiting to put on a show just for you in the pristine Finnish wilderness. Who knows, you might just experience the Aurora of a lifetime and come home with photos that will make all your friends green with envy! This bucket list experience in Lapland will create memories to last you well beyond the final glimmers of the Northern Lights fading into the starry night sky.

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