Aurora Lights Countries – Where to Experience the Northern Lights

Are you wondering which countries to visit to witness the spectacular Aurora Lights ? The Northern Lights or Aurora Borealis is a natural light display that is created when electrically charged particles from the sun collide with particles in the Earth’s atmosphere. This phenomenon can be seen in countries that are closer to the magnetic pole of the Earth. It has become one of the most popular tourist attractions in recent years, and people travel from all over the world to witness this stunning natural phenomenon. In this post, we will explore the countries where you can experience the Aurora Lights.

Norway

Norway is one of the top countries to see the Aurora Lights. Northern Norway sees the lights almost every night from late September to early April. The best places to see the Northern Lights in Norway are Tromso, Alta, and the Lofoten Islands. Tromso is one of the best places where you can witness the Aurora Lights as it is located in the middle of the northern lights oval. Tromso also offers various activities such as dog sledding, snowmobiling, and night-time reindeer sled rides, making it a complete experience.

Iceland

Iceland is another country that offers an excellent chance to witness the Aurora Lights. It is located close to the Arctic Circle, making it one of the best places to see the Northern Lights. Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, offers views of the lights from the city centre on clear nights. However, the best places to see the Aurora Lights in Iceland are away from the town and city lights. Some of the best locations are Thingvellir National Park, Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, and Vik.

Finland

Finland is another fantastic destination to experience the Aurora Lights. The northern part of Finland is well known for its views of the Northern Lights. Lapland is a region in Finland that is located near the Arctic Circle, making it an excellent destination to witness the Aurora Borealis. Rovaniemi is the capital of Lapland and is famous for the Santa Claus Village. You can also go on snowmobile safaris or reindeer rides while waiting to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights.

Canada

Canada is another country where you can experience the Aurora Lights. The aurora can be seen from late August to early April, with the best viewing between December and February. The best places to see the Northern Lights in Canada are the Yukon, Northwest Territories and Nunavut. The small town of Yellowknife in the Northwest Territories is one of the best places to witness the Aurora Lights. You can also enjoy dog-sledding, snowshoeing, and ice fishing while waiting for the Northern Lights to appear.

Sweden

Sweden is another country that is known for its Northern Lights. The best time to visit Sweden for the Aurora Borealis is between October and March. Abisko National Park is the best place to see the Northern Lights in Sweden as it has clear skies and almost no light pollution. Apart from witnessing the Northern Lights, you can also enjoy winter sports and snowmobiling in Sweden.

Greenland

Greenland is one of the most remote places on Earth and offers an incredible experience of the Aurora Borealis. One of the best locations to see the Northern Lights in Greenland is the East coast, especially around Scoresby Sund. It also offers a unique and remote experience, with dog-sledding and snowmobiling opportunities.

Russia

The Northern Lights can also be seen in Russia. Murmansk is a city in Russia, located near the Arctic Circle, and is known for its Northern Lights. Apart from witnessing the Aurora Borealis, you can also explore the city of Murmansk and its surrounding area, enjoying winter sports and other activities.

Conclusion

The Aurora Lights is a natural phenomenon that is worth experiencing. These are just a few of the top countries where you can witness the Northern Lights. To increase your chances of seeing the Aurora Borealis, it is best to visit during the winter months, which have the longest nights. It is also recommended to stay away from big cities and light pollution, which can reduce your chances of seeing the Northern Lights. Wherever you choose to go, witnessing the Aurora Lights will be an unforgettable experience!

Insider’s Guide to Tromsø, Norway – Where to Experience the Northern Lights

If you are looking for a magical winter wonderland vacation, Tromsø in Norway should be at the top of your bucket list. This fascinating city is known for its Northern Lights, but there’s more to Tromsø than meets the eye. As a local, I have uncovered plenty of treasures that are not on the typical tourist trail. Here is my insider’s guide to Tromsø, Norway.

Local Attractions

Though some of Tromsø’s highlights attract many tourists, there are still hidden gems that only locals know. One of these undiscovered treasures is Prestvannet Lake. Only a short walk from the city center, this breathtaking lake offers a unique perspective of Tromsø’s famous Arctic Cathedral and surrounding mountains. Additionally, the lake is home to an array of birds, including several species of ducks, and is perfect for ice-skating in winter.

Dining Spots

One of the best ways to explore a new city’s culture is through its food. In Tromsø, local cuisine consists of seafood and game dishes that have been perfected over centuries. Head to Fiskekompaniet Restaurant, a vibrant restaurant located directly by the harbor, and indulge in their Arctic experience menu – a modern interpretation of traditional Northern Norwegian cuisine.

For a more low-key meal, visit Riso Matgleder cafe, located in a quiet neighborhood near the harbor. Riso is decorated in a charming, cozy style, with a lush winter garden and a view of the fjord. They serve the best traditional Norwegian waffles in town, along with locally sourced coffee.

Cultural Experiences

Tromsø’s cultural scene is vibrant and diverse, with an array of festivals, traditions, and customs to be explored. Tromsø International Film Festival (TIFF) takes place annually in January and is the most extensive Norwegian film festival outside of Oslo. The week-long event showcases a range of movies from all over the globe.

Aurora Spirit Distillery is a unique, family-owned distillery that makes Norwegian spirits by utilizing the pure water from the fjords. You can visit the distillery and take a guided tour, which includes sampling their gin and whisky.

Local History

Tromsø’s rich history dates back to the Viking age. One fascinating story is that of ‘The Arctic Navigator,’ Roald Amundsen, who used Tromsø as a base for his polar expeditions. Amundsen, famously known for being the first person to reach the South Pole in 1911, also flew over the North Poles in a dirigible balloon from Spitsbergen to Alaska. The Polar Museum provides an in-depth depiction of Tromsø’s history, including stories of the city’s polar explorers and expeditions.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Take a cable car to the top of Mount Storsteinen for panoramic views of Tromsø and the surrounding mountains. On your way down, ensure to stop off and have a taste of the reindeer hot dogs from the Fjellheisen Cafe. If you’re feeling brave, try dog-sledding or reindeer sledding with one of the many tour companies in Tromsø.

In conclusion, Tromsø, Norway, is a place where nature and culture blend seamlessly. The myriad of local experiences it offers, from hidden gems to off-the-beaten-path experiences, ought to be on everyone’s bucket list. Book your trip, expect the unexpected, and fall in love with Tromsø, Norway!