FAQs about seeing the Northern Lights
Information for travelers on when and where to see the Aurora Borealis
What’s the best time to view the northern lights?
The best time of year to see the aurora borealis will be during winter, when visibility is best. However, depending on the weather and local conditions, the northern lights can generally be seen between September and March in northerly regions such as Iceland, Norway, Greenland, and Finland.
Can you see the northern lights from Oslo?
While Icelandair flights to Oslo serve as an excellent gateway to northern lights tours, Oslo itself is not the best destination to view this phenomenon. The city lies outside the “aurora belt” proper, and given the relatively large size of the city, light pollution can be a problem. However, Northern Norway is one of the top northern lights destinations in the world, with Tromsø being known as the unofficial “northern lights capital” of Norway.
How can I predict northern lights activity during my trip?
Several apps and weather services provide aurora forecasts that you may find useful when traveling to see the northern lights. Within Iceland, the Icelandic Met Office publishes an aurora forecast that northern lights hunters will find indispensable.
For a more global perspective, the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) also publishes an aurora forecast, giving you a view of the entire polar region covering not just Iceland, but also northern lights activity in Greenland, Norway, and Finland.
The Norwegian Meteorological Institute likewise publishes an aurora forecast that travelers may find useful, available both online and in their app.
What’s the best time of year to visit Greenland?
Icelandair services Nuuk year-round, and Narsarsuaq, Kulusuk and Ilulissat seasonally, meaning that the wild natural landscapes of Greenland are open to exploration any time of year. However, travelers looking to experience the northern lights in Greenland will of course want to plan their trip during the winter months, between September and March. Check our flight schedule for more information.
What countries can you see the northern lights from?
The northern lights can be viewed from many locations within the “aurora belt,” and many Icelandair destinations offer their own unique appeal.
In Norway, Tromsø offers accessible aurora tours and mild weather thanks to the Gulf Stream. Activities like dog sledding and reindeer safaris can enhance your trip, making for a truly memorable northern lights experience.
Likewise, Iceland offers many northern lights viewing options. Aurora are often visible within the capital of Reykjavík, meaning you don’t have to go far afield to view this phenomenon – but more adventurous tours are certainly on offer as well!
For those looking for a real wilderness experience, it is hard to find a more remote northern lights destination than Greenland. The rugged landscapes and pristine skies nearly guarantee unforgettable aurora views!
Finally, while Helsinki proper may not be a top northern lights destination, it acts as a convenient gateway for northern lights tours in Lapland, with minimal light pollution and pristine winter skies.
How should I prepare for my northern lights trip?
The aurora are a natural phenomena and can be hard to predict, but here are a few tips to help you have a great adventure. Wherever you’re going, book your flights to see the northern lights well in advance to give you the most flexibility about when you can travel. Peak season can also mean higher prices for flights and accommodation, so make sure to take that into consideration. Finally, don’t forget to pack lots of layers and wrap up warm as winter is often the best time to see the lights - but also the coldest!
