The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, are one of nature’s most magical displays. This stunning phenomenon lights up the night sky with shimmering hues of green, purple, and even red. If witnessing this celestial ballet is on your bucket list, you’ll need to head to the best places in the world for a chance to see it.
From Iceland to New Zealand, here are the eight best destinations to experience the Northern Lights in all their glory.
1. Iceland – The Land of Fire, Ice, and Aurora Magic
Iceland is a dream destination for anyone seeking the Northern Lights. With its remote landscapes, geothermal hot springs, and wide-open skies, Iceland offers incredible viewing opportunities from September to April. Reykjavik, the capital, is a great starting point, but for the best experience, head to Thingvellir National Park, Kirkjufell Mountain, or Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon.
Why Iceland?
- Minimal light pollution in rural areas
- Geothermal hot springs for a warm, scenic experience
- A variety of breathtaking landscapes as a backdrop for the Northern Lights
Hot tip: Rent a car and chase the Northern Lights in the countryside for an unforgettable adventure!
2. Yellowknife, Canada – The Aurora Capital of North America
Nestled in Canada’s Northwest Territories, Yellowknife is one of the world’s top destinations for Northern Lights chasers. With over 240 clear nights per year, this city is a prime location for catching a dazzling light show from mid-August to April.
Why Yellowknife?
- One of the most active Aurora hotspots in the world
- Extremely high chance of clear skies
- Various tour options, including Indigenous cultural experiences
For the best views, head to Aurora Village, a cozy retreat with heated seats where you can comfortably enjoy the lights.
When to visit: From mid-August to late April. Early August through early May in Churchill and Wood Buffalo.
3. Tromsø, Norway – The Gateway to the Arctic
Tromsø, located in the heart of the Arctic Circle, is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights in Norway. From September to April, the city offers some of the most intense Aurora Borealis displays in the world.
Why Tromsø?
- Stunning fjords and snow-covered landscapes enhance the experience
- Exciting activities like dog sledding, whale watching, and reindeer encounters
- Easily accessible, with direct flights from major European cities
To maximize your Northern Lights experience, take a guided Aurora tour deep into the Arctic wilderness.
When to visit: Mid-September to late March
4. Northern Sweden – A Winter Wonderland for Aurora Hunters
Sweden’s Arctic region, particularly Abisko National Park, is one of the most reliable places to witness the Northern Lights. This remote and pristine location has some of the clearest skies in Europe, increasing your chances of seeing the phenomenon.
Why Northern Sweden?
- Abisko’s famous “Blue Hole” provides clear skies even when surrounding areas are cloudy
- The Aurora Sky Station offers an unparalleled viewing experience
- Cozy accommodations like ice hotels and glass-roofed igloos
Abisko is a must-visit destination for those serious about catching the Aurora Borealis in all its glory.
When to visit: Mid-September to late March
5. Lapland, Finland – A Fairytale Destination for the Northern Lights
Lapland, Finland, is a magical place where the Northern Lights dance above snow-covered forests and frozen lakes. The Aurora season here runs from September to March, with some areas offering a nearly 90% chance of witnessing the lights on a clear night.
Why Lapland?
- Unique accommodation options like glass igloos and treehouses
- Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi for a festive touch
- Activities like husky safaris and snowmobiling under the Aurora
Staying in a glass igloo hotel is one of the most unforgettable ways to experience the Northern Lights in Finland.
6. Fairbanks, Alaska – America’s Aurora Hotspot
If you’re looking for an accessible U.S. destination to see the Northern Lights, Fairbanks, Alaska, is your best bet. The city’s location under the Aurora Oval makes it an ideal place for frequent and vivid Aurora displays from August to April.
Why Fairbanks?
- High probability of Aurora activity
- Unique experiences like Chena Hot Springs and ice fishing
- Indigenous cultural insights through guided tours
For a once-in-a-lifetime experience, relax in the Chena Hot Springs while the Northern Lights dance above you.
When to visit: From late August through mid-April.
7. Greenland – The Remote Aurora Paradise
Greenland offers one of the most untouched and surreal settings for seeing the Northern Lights. With minimal light pollution and vast Arctic landscapes, this destination is perfect for those looking for a unique Aurora experience.
Why Greenland?
- Incredible solitude and unspoiled natural beauty
- Best viewing spots include Kangerlussuaq and Nuuk
- A combination of the Aurora Borealis and icy landscapes creates an unforgettable sight
Since Greenland is far from major cities, it provides some of the darkest skies and brightest Northern Lights in the world.
When to visit: Mid-August to late April in the south, and late August to mid-April in Nuuk.
8. New Zealand – A Southern Hemisphere Surprise
While the Northern Lights are famous, the Southern Lights, or Aurora Australis, offer just as stunning a display. New Zealand is one of the best places to witness this rare phenomenon, especially in the country’s southernmost regions.
Why New Zealand?
- Unlike the Northern Lights, the Southern Lights can be seen year-round
- Beautiful landscapes, including mountains, lakes, and coastal cliffs
- Best spots include Stewart Island, The Catlins, and Lake Tekapo
For the ultimate Aurora Australis experience, visit Stewart Island, where there’s little artificial light to interfere with the view.
When to visit: All year, although the best time to go is near the equinoxes.
Final Thoughts
The Northern Lights are a once-in-a-lifetime spectacle that everyone should witness at least once. Whether you choose the icy fjords of Norway, the hot springs of Iceland, or the wilderness of Alaska, these destinations offer breathtaking backdrops for nature’s most dazzling light show.
When planning your trip, remember these essential tips:
- Visit during peak Aurora seasons (usually September-April)
- Check weather conditions and solar activity forecasts
- Choose locations with minimal light pollution
- Bring warm clothing and a good camera for capturing the magic
No matter where you go, seeing the Northern Lights will leave you in awe. So, grab your travel gear and start planning your next adventure!
Have you ever seen the Northern Lights? Share your experience in the comments below!
Oh my, one of my dream is to see this in person! This is so beautiful!
This is really useful to know. I’ve been wanting to go see them for years. it’s good you can see them in so many places.
Northenrn Lights are a wonder of nature and this article lists all the vital places where we can witness it . I am sure Lapland and Kirkjufell mountain are the two front runners when it comes to witnessing Northern Lights
I have always wanted to see the Northern Lights. I’d love to see them in person in the near future one day. I just know it’d be magical.
I’ve seen the northern lights once as a child but I would love to see them again and take pictures!