One of the most magical and unforgettable experiences in Finland is witnessing the northern lights as they dance across the Arctic sky. But seeing this natural phenomenon can feel a bit like chasing a dream. With the right planning and a little bit of luck, however, you can improve your chances of catching this awe-inspiring light show. Here’s how to maximize your chances of seeing the aurora borealis on your next trip to Finland.
When to Travel: Timing Is Key
The aurora borealis is a winter phenomenon, so the best time to travel to Finland for the northern lights is from late September to April, with October to March offering the highest likelihood. During these months, the long, dark nights of the Arctic provide the perfect backdrop for the lights to appear.While the northern lights can occasionally be visible as early as late August or as late as April, it’s the darker winter months when your chances are highest. December to February are ideal, with extended hours of darkness and frequent clear skies, though it can be cold, so pack accordingly!
Where to Travel: Head North
While it’s possible to catch the aurora borealis in southern Finland, your best chances lie in Lapland, the northernmost region of the country. The further north you go, the better your chances. Here are some top destinations to consider:
- Rovaniemi: The capital of Finnish Lapland, located just on the edge of the Arctic Circle. While it’s a popular tourist hub with plenty of things to do, it’s not the best spot for clear skies because of light pollution from the town.
- Saariselkä & Inari: Located farther north, these towns offer better chances for clear skies and darker surroundings. Inari is especially remote, providing excellent aurora viewing conditions.
- Kilpisjärvi: If you want to be as far north as possible, Kilpisjärvi is a small village near the borders of Sweden and Norway, famous for its pristine wilderness and great chances for aurora sightings.
- Ylläs & Levi: These two popular destinations, located near each other and serviced by the same airport, offer excellent opportunities for seeing the northern lights. Both locations have well-developed tourist services, plenty of activities like skiing and snowmobiling, and stunning natural surroundings.
Wherever you go in Lapland, try to venture outside of towns to avoid light pollution. The less artificial light around you, the clearer and more vibrant the northern lights will appear.
Where to Stay: Cabins, Glass Igloos, or Hotels?
The type of accommodation you choose can also play a big role in maximizing your aurora-watching experience. Finland has some unique options for this.
- Glass Igloos: One of the most iconic ways to watch the northern lights in Finland is by staying in a glass igloo. These cozy structures with transparent roofs allow you to lie in bed and watch the aurora dance above you. Places like the Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort , Ylläs Artic Skylight Lodge and Levi Igloos offer this incredible experience.
- Cabins: For those who prefer a more traditional Finnish experience, staying in a remote cabin can also be a great option. Many cabins are nestled in nature, far from city lights, offering the perfect environment for aurora spotting. And there’s something undeniably Finnish about staying in a log cabin, enjoying the peace and quiet of the forest or by a lake, and warming up in the sauna after a chilly evening outdoors.
- Hotels: If you prefer staying in a hotel, many accommodations in Lapland are designed with aurora viewing in mind. Some hotels even offer an aurora wake-up service, so you won’t miss the show if it happens while you’re sleeping.
How to Track the Aurora Borealis Online
Aurora sightings are never guaranteed, but thanks to modern technology, you can increase your odds by tracking aurora activity. Here are some tools and websites that can help you monitor the chances of seeing the northern lights during your trip:
- Aurora Service (aurora-service.eu): Provides live aurora forecasts and real-time updates on solar activity that causes the northern lights. You can also sign up for alerts.
- SpaceWeatherLive.com: This site tracks solar wind and aurora conditions worldwide, offering reliable predictions of aurora visibility.
- Aurora Alerts (AuroraAlert.fi): A mobile app designed for Finnish travelers. It sends real-time notifications when the northern lights are visible in your area.
- Met Finland Weather App: Finland’s own weather service also provides cloud coverage updates, helping you find clear skies—a crucial factor when it comes to seeing the aurora.
While checking forecasts and staying updated with alerts will help, it’s important to remember that the aurora can be unpredictable, so patience and a flexible schedule are key.
What If You Don’t See the Aurora Borealis?
Despite your best efforts, it’s possible that the northern lights might elude you on your trip. But don’t worry—Lapland offers a wealth of magical experiences that will make your visit unforgettable, whether or not you see the aurora.
- Sauna and Ice Swimming: Embrace Finland’s famous sauna culture, and if you’re feeling adventurous, try ice swimming! Nothing compares to the invigorating thrill of a cold dip followed by a warm sauna.
- Husky and Reindeer Safaris: Experience the wilderness of Lapland with a husky or reindeer sled ride. It’s an exhilarating way to explore the snowy landscapes while learning about traditional Finnish culture.
- Snowshoeing and Skiing: For the active traveler, Lapland’s pristine nature offers excellent opportunities for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. Both activities are deeply rooted in Finnish culture and allow you to immerse yourself in the quiet beauty of the snow-covered forests.
- Visit Santa Claus Village: If you’re traveling with children, Rovaniemi’s Santa Claus Village is a must-visit. The official home of Santa Claus, it’s open year-round and offers magical experiences for visitors of all ages.
Even if the northern lights don’t make an appearance, your time in Lapland will be filled with unforgettable adventures that make the trip more than worthwhile.
Conclusion
Traveling to Finland in search of the aurora borealis is a dream for many, and by planning wisely, you can maximize your chances of witnessing this extraordinary phenomenon. But remember, even if the lights don’t appear, the magic of Lapland and the experience of being in Finland will leave you with lasting memories. Whether you’re enjoying the peaceful beauty of the snowy landscapes, warming up in a sauna, or savoring a night under the stars, your trip will be one to remember.