Northern Lights

 The Northern Lights—also known as the Aurora Borealis—are a magical natural phenomenon that you can often see in Finland, especially in Lapland, the northernmost region of the country. Here’s a quick overview about them in the Finnish context:

What Are the Northern Lights?

They are caused by charged particles from the sun colliding with Earth’s magnetic field and atmosphere. These collisions create light displays in the sky, typically in shades of green, but also sometimes purple, pink, or red.

Where to See Them in Finland 

The best spots are all above the Arctic Circle, where you can see them around 200 nights a year!

• Rovaniemi – The "official" home of Santa Claus and a good base for aurora tours.

• Saariselkä – A quiet village surrounded by wilderness.

• Luosto – Small resort town with an Aurora Alert system.

• Kilpisjärvi – Remote and excellent for photography.

• Utsjoki – Northernmost municipality, excellent dark skies.

  When to Go;

  • Best Season: Late September to early April

  • Peak Viewing Months: October to March

  • You need clear, dark skies and preferably a new moon for optimal viewing.

    Tips for Seeing the Lights

    • Get away from city lights—go to a remote area.

    • Use apps or websites that forecast aurora activity (e.g., Aurora Alert, My Aurora Forecast).

    • Dress warmly—it gets extremely cold!

    • Be patient and stay out for a few hours if needed.

      Bonus: Arctic Experiences

      While you're hunting for the aurora, you can also enjoy:

    • Husky sledding 

    • Snowmobiling 

    • Ice fishing 

    • Staying in a glass igloo or ice hotel 

    • Want help planning a Northern Lights trip to Finland? I can help build an itinerary too!