Auroras are made from radiation, thereby forming colorful lights in the sky.
From the ground, viewers can see many similar color bands and types of virtual light in the sky.
Scientifically, bright bands are created as interactions between the solar wind power systems and the Earth’s upper atmosphere.
Auroras that occur in the Northern Hemisphere are called the Northern Lights, which usually take place from late August to mid-April. In the Southern Hemisphere, This phenomenon is called the aurora borealis.
The “forums” are usually active for a few hours before disappearing. Each aurora appearance is an art show because the light strip’s color, brightness, and shape change all the time continuously when it’s gentle and elevated.
Here are the 9 best places to see the lights.
Fairbanks, Alaska
Fairbanks is full of winter sports. It’s perfect for active travelers (or spectators)! The official state sport is greyhound; you can also ski or snowboard on famous peaks, including Mount Aurora and Mount Moose, or take a more leisurely approach by helicopter or snowmobile. Fairbanks offers clear blue skies, hours of darkness, and low rainfall for the northern lights, making it an ideal location for a nature show.
Best time to visit: is late August to April.
Canada
Yellowknife in Canada is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights. Located in the traditional Yellowknives Dene First Nation enclave, you can learn about some of the town’s history and grounds from the Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Center or the Aurora Emporium Art Gallery.
Go hiking and skiing when you’re ready to get out and about. In March, you can attend the SnowKing Winter Festival to see the greats build giant snow castles on Great Slave Lake.
Best time to visit: is late August to April
For somewhere truly out of place, the town of Churchill in Manitoba, Canada, is also one of the good places to see the Northern Lights. The only way to get there is by plane or train, as there are no roads leading into Churchill. As a result, it removes the town’s hustle and bustle of city life – a rustic charm.
The peak season for the Northern Lights is from January to March. However, a visit in late November will give you a chance to spot some species of polar bears and beluga whales during the summer months. However, Churchill boasts northern light visibility up to 300 days of the year.
Best time to visit: is late August to April
Ilulissat, Greenland
Ilulissat means “iceberg”, and the iceberg that sank the Titanic may even have been born near It Greenland town. It is a charming, super cold seaside town located on Disko Bay in Greenland, nearly 200 miles north of the Arctic Circle.
It is home to stunning views, the northern lights, and even Sermeq Kujalleq, the fastest-moving glacier in the world. You can take a close-up tour of It glacier by kayak, boat, or foot and witness small glaciers splitting from the giant glacier.
Best time to visit: late September to April
Iceland
Perhaps unsurprisingly, Iceland as a whole offers hopeful viewers an excellent chance to see the northern lights. Better yet, however, Reykjavík, its capital, offers city life and entertainment to explore while you wait for darkness to take over.
You can head to Hlemmur Food Hall to discover Icelandic cuisine and participate in the Icelandic Airwaves international music festival (every November)
On the water, you can see the Northern Lights from town (possibly involving impromptu whale watching). During your self-driving tour, be aware of the possible icy roads! Further, as you get away from the city, it becomes slipperier it can be.
Best time to visit: is September to March.
Tromsø
Walk the 1200 Sherpa steps or take a 4-minute gondola ride up Mount Storsteinen for stunning views of Tromso. You can even tour the surrounding waters in search of orcas, humpback whales, and seals. To chase the Northern Lights, you can choose a van or a bus or if you’re feeling adventurous, try a sled drawn by huskies or reindeer!
Best time to visit: is late August to April
Estonian
Estonia is a small country that many people might overlook at first glance, but those who decide to visit enjoy it. First, Tallinn Old Town offers architecture, parks, and other attractions. Next, head to Tallinna Raekoja Plats, a square just a 15-minute drive from the airport. Tallinn doesn’t guarantee you can see the northern lights, but your best bet is to drive to the north of the peninsula, about 20 minutes from the airport, and see what you can spot from Viimsi, Paljassaare, or Tammneeme.
Best time to visit: late September to April
City of Petersburg, Russian Federation
Petersburg is one of Russia’s most popular cities for a good reason. First, it is hailed as the cultural capital of Russia, on par with Moscow. There’s so much to see and do here with the 7 million tourists annually! They are visible from the city itself. As it gets dark, you can move to Murmansk, Arkhangelsk, or Naryan-Mar for less obscure views.
Best time to visit: is late August to April
Lapland
Lapland is Santa’s home; you can visit Santa’s Village, ride a reindeer sled, ride a sleigh and explore the magical village. In addition, of course, there are lakes and mountains for hiking, skiing, snowboarding, rock climbing, or even tobogganing. When the sky darkens, you can observe the Northern Lights from a sleigh or even your bed, depending on where you live. The best places in Lapland to see the Northern Lights and experience the region include Rovaniemi (the capital), Kemijӓrvi, and Sirkka.
Best time to visit: October to April
Ready to plan your trip to see the northern lights? We have a discount program for you on the It tour. Call us now to receive a 10% discount code.
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