Aurora Borealis

Chasing the Northern Lights: An Unforgettable Adventure

The aurora borealis, also known as the Northern Lights, is a breathtaking natural phenomenon that paints the night sky with vibrant hues of green, pink, purple, and red. Witnessing this celestial dance is a bucket-list experience for many, and with careful planning, you can increase your chances of catching this ethereal spectacle.

Where to Go:

  • Alaska (USA): Fairbanks and Anchorage offer prime viewing opportunities from September to April.
  • Canada: Yellowknife in the Northwest Territories is renowned as the “Aurora Capital” due to its clear skies and high aurora activity.
  • Iceland: Reykjavik and surrounding areas are popular choices, with tours available for optimal viewing conditions.
  • Norway: Tromsø and the Lofoten Islands offer stunning landscapes alongside the chance to see the Northern Lights.
  • Finland: Lapland’s wilderness provides a magical backdrop for experiencing the aurora.

Tips for Catching the Aurora:

  • Timing is Key: The best time to see the Northern Lights is during the winter months (September-April) when nights are long and dark.

  • Check the Aurora Forecast: Websites and apps like Aurora Forecast and SpaceWeatherLive provide predictions based on solar activity.

  • Escape Light Pollution: Find a location away from city lights for optimal viewing.

Activities Beyond the Lights:

  • Dog Sledding: Embrace the Arctic spirit with an exhilarating dog sledding adventure through snowy landscapes.

  • Snowmobiling: Explore frozen lakes and forests on a thrilling snowmobile tour.

  • Ice Fishing: Try your luck at catching fish beneath the ice, a unique Arctic experience.

  • Northern Lights Photography: Capture the magic of the aurora with a camera equipped for low-light photography.

Where to Eat and Stay:

  • Iceland: Enjoy fresh seafood and traditional Icelandic dishes at restaurants like Fiskfélagið or Dill in Reykjavik. Cozy guesthouses and boutique hotels abound.

  • Norway: Sample reindeer stew and other Norwegian delicacies at restaurants like Mathallen in Oslo or Fjellstua Restaurant in Tromsø. Consider staying in charming wooden cabins or Arctic-themed hotels.

  • Alaska: Indulge in Alaskan salmon and wild game at restaurants like Pike’s Landing in Anchorage or The Pump House in Fairbanks. Choose from lodges, resorts, or cozy B&Bs for your stay.

Other Things to Know:

  • Dress Warmly: Temperatures can drop significantly, so pack layers of warm clothing, including hats, gloves, and scarves.
  • Respect Nature: Leave no trace behind and avoid disturbing wildlife.

Chasing the Northern Lights is an adventure that will leave you with unforgettable memories. With careful planning and a touch of luck, you’ll be rewarded with this awe-inspiring natural spectacle.