The Ultimate Guide to Experiencing Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) in Finland

Witnessing the breathtaking northern lights (Aurora Borealis) is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that every travel enthusiast must have, and Finland is one of the best places to see them. Finland, located in the northernmost part of Europe, is one of the few places where you can witness the phenomenon for up to 200 nights a year. The country is home to many prime locations for witnessing the northern lights, including Rovaniemi, Kakslauttanen, and Inari. In this guide, we will take a closer look at why Finland is an excellent destination for seeing the northern lights, the best time to spot them, and where to go to witness this spectacular natural phenomenon.

Why Finland?

Finland is a prime destination for witnessing the northern lights mainly due to its high latitude, which positions it directly underneath the Auroral Oval, a region where the northern lights are most visible. The country’s location also places it far away from major sources of light pollution, which is a crucial factor when it comes to seeing the aurora borealis. Visitors to Finland have plenty of options when choosing a location to view the northern lights, as hotels and tour operators in different parts of the country offer northern lights experiences. Here are some of the best places to see the northern lights in Finland:

Rovaniemi

Located in the Arctic Circle, Rovaniemi is probably one of the best places to see the northern lights in Finland. The city has a Northern Lights Film Festival and provides tourists with a Northern Lights package that includes accommodation and a guided tour. The city is also home to the Arctic SnowHotel, where visitors can sleep in an igloo and watch the northern lights.

Kakslauttanen

Around 250 kilometers north of the Arctic Circle, Kakslauttanen is a prime location for seeing the northern lights. The resort is well-known for its glass igloos that provide 360-degree views of the starry sky, so you can enjoy the northern lights, even from your bed. The resort also offers ski slopes, sleigh rides, and other winter activities.

Inari

Inari is situated far north of the Arctic Circle, and as a result, it is one of the driest places in Finland where the northern lights appear. Inari is also known for its Sámi indigenous culture, offering visitors the chance to learn about local traditions and lifestyles. Visitors can stay in the wilderness cabins or glass igloos, where they can enjoy the magnificent spectacle of the northern lights.

When to Go

The northern lights can be observed in Finland for more than 200 nights a year, but the best time to see them is between September and March when nights are longer and darker, and the temperature is cold enough to avoid any cloud cover. During this period, visitors have a higher chance of seeing the northern lights, with peak activity between 9 pm and 2 am. However, visitors should always check the aurora forecast to know the best time to see the lights as sometimes, there may not be any activity. It’s also worth noting that although the lights can sometimes be seen as early as August and as late as April, the chances of seeing them are lower during these months.

What to Wear

If you’re planning to visit Finland during the northern lights season, you need to be prepared for the cold climate. Temperatures in Finland during the winter can reach as low as -30°C, so it’s essential to pack enough layers to keep warm. Proper clothing such as thermal underwear, a down jacket, warm boots, hats, and gloves are a must. Sufficient clothing is vital to avoid getting hypothermia, so pack well to ensure comfort during the northern lights show.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a bucket-list travel experience, witnessing the northern lights in Finland should be at the top of your list. With a combination of great locations and the best time of the year to see the northern lights, Finland should be your first choice for this magical natural phenomenon. Plan your trip properly, pack enough warm clothing, and be prepared to be awed by nature’s stunning display. We hope this guide helps you plan your trip to Finland to witness the northern lights (Aurora Borealis).

The Insider’s Guide to Rovaniemi, Finland

Finland’s northernmost city, Rovaniemi, is known for its incredible natural beauty and magical winter wonderland. While the Northern Lights are the primary attraction, there’s much more to experience in Rovaniemi. This insider’s guide will take you beyond the usual tourist spots and introduce you to some of the city’s hidden gems.

Local Attractions

Most tourists head straight for the Santa Claus Village, but locals know that there’s more to Rovaniemi than just Christmas. For a unique outdoor experience, head to the Ounasvaara hill and enjoy spectacular views of the city and surrounding forests from atop the ski jump tower. Another hidden gem is the Arktikum Museum, which provides insight into the history and culture of Finnish Lapland.

Dining Spots

Rovaniemi is known for its reindeer meat, which is used in various traditional dishes. Try some of the local specialties like reindeer stew or smoked reindeer. Be sure to visit Ravintola Nili, a charming restaurant that serves the freshest Arctic ingredients, including fish caught from the nearby rivers.

Cultural Experiences

The locals take their culture seriously and celebrate their traditions with great pride. One such celebration is the Rovaniemi Summer Festival, which features live music, performances, and local cuisine. The city is also home to the Arctic Design Shop, featuring modern Finnish design and handicrafts.

Local History

Rovaniemi has had its fair share of misfortune, including being burnt to the ground in World War II, but it has rebounded from those tragedies with remarkable resiliency. The Arktikum Museum also provides fascinating insight into the history of the Sami people, natives of Lapland.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Looking for something unique? Why not take part in a husky safari through the snowy wilderness or visit the Ranua Wildlife Park, where you’ll see up close the diverse animals from the northern regions. Or, head out to the frozen Kemijoki River and try your hand at ice fishing. No matter what you choose, Rovaniemi’s natural wonders will leave you awe-struck.

Now that you’ve explored Rovaniemi like a local, it’s time to chase that dazzling Northern Lights display!