"Northern Lights 101: Planning Your Perfect Aurora Viewing Trip"

The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are a bucket-list phenomenon for many travelers and Mother Nature's Most Spectacular Show. Seeing the sky painted with ribbons of color is an unforgettable experience and even better when shared with friends and family. 

Aha, but where, when and how to see best display you ask?  Rest easy and get ready for an adventure as we share insider tips on planning a trip to increase your chances of catching this natural spectacle with front row seats and making the most of your aurora-chasing adventure.

This guide will unveil the top destinations, optimal times of year, and provide essential tips, including the merits of a cruise for viewing these phenomena and how far in advance you should plan your trip.

Following are some of the best places and times to witness this marvel.  You can combine a Northern lights adventure with another great destination for even more fun. It's all about maximizing your trip routing and experiences. 

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Tromsø, Norway for Northern Lights Viewing

​1. Tromsø, Norway
- Best Time: Late September to late March
- Norway's northern regions offer dark, clear skies ideal for Aurora viewing. Tromsø is particularly famous for its high frequency and intensity of Northern Lights activity.

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Reykjavik, Iceland offers great Northern Lights Viewing

​2. Reykjavik, Iceland
- Best Time: September to April
- Not only can you enjoy the lights, but Reykjavik offers volcanic landscapes and hot springs, enhancing your adventurous spirit.  Insider Tip: ​Book a free stopover in Reykjavik to see the Northern Lights when flying to to/from Europe on Icelandair.

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Ice Alaska Festival in Fairbanks, AK

 
​3. Fairbanks, Alaska, USA
- Best Time: Late August to mid-April
- Positioned under the "Auroral Oval," Fairbanks is a hotspot for light chasers, offering excellent chances and numerous viewing tours. Insider tip: For a great value and an incredible vacation, take the last northbound cruise tour from Vancouver to Anchorage in late August and then the iconic Alaska Railroad up to Denali National Park and onward to Fairbanks to see the Northern Lights for the ultimate Alaska Wilderness Vacation.

Or visit during Fairbank's Ice Alaska festival featuring world championships ice & snow sculpting competition held annually in February and early March.  

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Yellowknife, Canada offers clear skies for viewing Northern Lights

​4. Yellowknife, Canada (located in Northwest Territories, Canada)
- Best Time: Mid-November to April
- Known for its clear skies, Yellowknife provides some of the best Aurora viewing experiences in North America.

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Cruises are a great way to view the Northern Lights

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​5. Cruising Under the Aurora - Northern Lights Cruises
-Best Time - September to April
Consider a cruise to witness the Northern Lights in luxury with friends and family for an incredible shared experience.  Options include luxury and expert led expedition cruises along the Scandanavian, Iceland and Greenland coasts. Cruises offer unique vantage points and the comfort of witnessing the lights dance above while you're enveloped in luxury.  
Insider Tip: Make sure the cruise explicitly promises Northern Lights sightings, as they often provide expert lectures and night watches as part of the experience and best itinerary for maximum viewing.

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Use a travel advisor for best advice and trip planning

​Planning Your Celestial Experience
Use a professional and experienced Travel Agency for best advice, vetted suppliers, trip routing and maximizing experiences.

While the main draw is undoubtedly the Aurora Borealis, the areas where they are visible often offer other incredible experiences, from dog sledding and ice fishing to simply enjoying the serene, snow-covered landscapes.

We suggest booking at least 6-9 months in advance especially if aiming for peak seasons or specific accommodations like glass igloos in Finland or luxury cruises along Scandinavia's coast.

Capturing the Northern Lights requires a blend of careful planning and spontaneity. Prepare well, stay warm, and remain flexible to fully enjoy one of Earth’s most breathtaking natural displays!

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