What is an Aurora Borealis?
Magnificent colors flood the sky, green, pink, blue, red or yellow hues appear in the polar sky. The visual effects create an enchanting and magical moment for the lucky ones who manage to see one. The aurora borealis occurs in the polar regions close to the magnetic poles.
These poles act like magnets which attract solar particles which collide with the upper layer of the atmosphere composed of nitrogen and oxygen, which creates the conflagration of the solar particles.
When and how to see the aurora borealis?
You can see the aurora borealis between September and March between 6 p.m. and 1 a.m. The winter months offer magnificent polar nights but watch out for snowstorms and clouds that can spoil the show.
As you will have understood, you need a night with a clear and clear sky, far from large cities to avoid light pollution, and you need dry weather. And there, all the conditions will be met to contemplate this magnificent spectacle.
The Northern Lights ignite Alaska
For nearly two hundred days a year, Alaska offers the magnificent Northern Lights. But beware, not everywhere! Fairbanks is a recommended city to admire this light show as it is just at distance between the North Pole and the magnetic fields.
Canada is an incredible place to contemplate the polar auroras. You will have to go north of the 60th parallel on the Yukon side, Whitehorse.
The city of Yellowknife is ideal with its perfect brightness. Circuits are proposed to go in search of this exceptional spectacle. Wood Buffalo Park is also famous for its good location.
Where to stay in Yellowknife?
Just land in Reykjavik, the Icelandic capital to easily find companies that will allow you to make an excursion and get away from all the lights of the city.
But if you have the opportunity to move a little, opt for the northeast towards Lake Myvatn. Above the glaciers and volcanoes, you will see them sparkle with a thousand lights!
A colorful night in Finnish Lapland
In the north of Finland, the northern lights reflect on the snowy landscapes and offer a sumptuous light sweep. The Ivalo region offers magnificent observation spots. Even in Helsinki, in the south of Finland, it is possible to see them for about twenty nights.
Admire an Aurora Borealis in Sweden
It is possible to travel to Swedish Lapland to see the Aurora Borealis. To put the odds on your side, we advise you to take a chairlift to the Aurora Sky Station in Abisko National Park, 900m above the sea.
It is the driest and brightest point in the whole country. It is possible to see nearly 200 aurora borealis per year on this spot!
Where to stay in Abisko National Park?
In the north of Norway, from the Lofoten islands to the North Cape, you will have an ideal place for observation. The city of Tromso is also a popular starting point since nature safaris are organized there and you can admire the spectacle.
Where to stay in Tromso? See our accommodation selection
A destination less famous for a special getaway to discover the northern lights but just as spectacular because the Russian spots are the wildest. The city of Murmansk, in the middle of the tundra is a good destination to see the lights dancing in the sky.