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Northern lights | Hotspots to Hunt for the Fascinating Aurora Borealis

It is a spectacular and fairytale-like natural phenomenon that once in a while provides a great spectacle. We are, of course, talking about Aurora Borealis, better known as the Northern Lights. The red, green glow, swirling streaks of fog and magical hues enchant anyone who gets the chance to see the Northern Lights for themselves. To lend you a hand, we've collected the best spots for spotting the Northern Lights for you. These are the four best Northern Lights hotspots!

How are the Northern Lights created?

The Northern Lights get their beautiful colors because electrically charged particles, emitted by the sun, enter our atmosphere and collide with air particles. The resulting gases are the cause of the different colours. The Northern Lights are actually a combination of many billions molecules that collide with each other.

When is the best time to see the Northern Lights?

You have to be lucky, the northern lights don't show at fixed times and can sometimes be unpredictable. But if you still want to try your luck, it's good to know that the best time to see the Northern Lights is between September and April, especially between 18 PM and 00 AM. The best moment is often between 01:00 and 22:00.

Where can you see the Northern Lights?

However, that's not to say you can't see the Northern Lights in other months. The Northern Lights are actually there all year round, not just in the fall and winter. You increase your chance considerably by traveling further north on our globe. That is why we have listed the favorite hotspots of the northern lights for you. Below is a selection of the best places for seeing Northern Lights, in these places he regularly shows his enchanting face.

Also read: World wise: The safest and most dangerous countries in Europe

1. Northern Lights in Lofoten, Norway

Lofoten Viewpoint, Norway
Lofoten Viewpoint, Norway

Want the perfect view of the Northern Lights, also known as aurora borealis? Then it is best to travel to hotspot Lofoten in the north of somewhere between September and April Norway† By boat you take a trip along Tromsø and Svolvaer and you can enjoy the many mighty fjords in Norway. With the wintry mountains in the background, you eventually arrive in Lofoten, an archipelago in the far north of Arctic Norway.

Northern Lights in Lofoten, Norway
Northern Lights in Lofoten, Norway

In between there is plenty of opportunity to spot orcas, for example, or to take a sailing trip along the beautiful islands off the rugged coast of Norway. In the end, of course, it's all about the Northern Lights. Every evening you can go out with an expert to look for the unique natural phenomenon. The brighter the night, the more likely the Northern Lights are. The best conditions are a clear sky, a temperature around freezing and a dark night. For example, a full moon can take away a lot of light from the northern lights.

2. Northern Lights in Churchill, Canada

northern lights churchill canada
Northern Lights. Churchill, Canada

A completely different place, but no less spectacular: Canada! Here it is best to travel to the town of Churchill. Our advice: stick to it for a few days to make a small tour in stunning Canada. Especially in winter times, this country is a nice gift to unpack slowly. So Churchill! Here the conditions are often the best for hunting the mysterious Aurora Borealis. Churchill is located on Hudson Bay and is known for its polar bears that prowl here in winter times. The Northern Lights are especially visible around the month of March. During the day you can take a dog sled ride or a 'snowshoe hike'. The Eskimo Museum here is also definitely worth a visit. In the evening it is time to dress warmly and go out into the cold, hoping for a play of the aurora.

3. Northern Lights in Skógar, Iceland

Northern Lights in Skógar, Iceland
Northern Lights in Skógar, Iceland

Also in Iceland you have a good chance of spotting the Northern Lights. So pack your camera and head to Reykjavík! From the capital you travel to the south of this special island. Close to the North Pole, Iceland is, of course, known for its cold and snowy landscapes. On the way to Skógar you pass the volcano Eyjafjallajokull, which erupted in 2010. Arriving at Skógar, marvel at the beautiful surroundings and get ready to go out in the evening. Skógar is a real hotspot for northern lights hunters. The best time to travel here is somewhere between November and February. The special light with its wide variety of colors and brilliance regularly transforms the dark sky in the south of Iceland into a fascinating light show.

Also read: 10 fun things to do in Iceland | Make the most of your trip!

4. Aurora Borealis in Finland Lapland

Aurora Borealis, Lapland, Finland
Northern Lights, Lapland, Finland

Why not just go to the fairytale-like Lapland that in the surprising Finland is? Book a trip in the months of February, March, September or October and there is a good chance that you will bump into Aurora Borealis! Of course, a trip to Lapland in itself is quite an experience. Lapland is often combined with neighboring countries and we understand why! A tour through Scandinavia is not complete without a snowmobile or reindeer safari. They are of course unique diversions on your trip to the cold Lapland, which is located in the far north of Finland. Or what about ice fishing? Ultimately, of course, nothing beats seeing one of Mother Nature's pearls. Statistically, do you want the best chance of catching the Northern Lights? Then travel to the town of Kilpisjarvi. This town is known for seeing the aurora regularly here.

Also read: 5x beautiful national parks in Finland & travel by train!

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1 comment

  • When is the best time to see the Northern Lights?
    You have to be lucky, the Northern Lights do not show at set times and can sometimes be unpredictable. But if you still want to try your luck, it's good to know that the best time to see the Northern Lights is between September and April, especially between 18 pmm and 00 amm The best time is usually between 01:00 and 22:00.

    That describes it for ICELAND. It is not understood which is the best time, if after 6:00 pm or after 01:00 am

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