Read this before planning Northern Lights Adventure -Practical Tips

Many travelers, especially those starting their journey from countries far from the Arctic, often overthink their plans and end up negotiating every detail with local tour operators. While that’s understandable, this approach can sometimes lead to overlooking valuable advice from experienced guides, which can make all the difference in seeing the Northern Lights. A recent example? Just yesterday, a friend of ours, who had been talking to us about this trip for the past two years, finally made it to Finland – but through a different travel agency. The result? Without the right guidance, they missed out on seeing the Northern Lights, even though it was visible that very evening from Espoo, near Helsinki.

One common misconception is that you need to travel to the far north to witness the aurora borealis. This year, with strong solar winds and high aurora activity, sightings have been possible even around southern Finland. Since September, we've been lucky to experience the Northern Lights 10 or 11 times right from our home in Espoo. This trend is expected to continue until late March.

So, here’s the bottom line: Don’t over-plan or dismiss expert advice. The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, and spotting them requires a bit of flexibility and patience. Here are a few key tips to help you maximize your chances:

Plan a Guided Tour Night – Even if you're exploring on your own, setting aside at least one night for a guided Northern Lights tour is highly recommended. Local guides know the best spots, check real-time aurora forecasts, and are experienced in positioning for the best views, so you're not left in the dark (literally) if the aurora makes a sudden appearance.
Allocate Sufficient Nights – To increase your chances, we recommend staying in the northern region of Finland or Norway for at least four nights. The aurora borealis depends on solar winds, the Kp index, and, most importantly, clear skies. Having multiple nights gives you a higher probability of catching a sighting.
Avoid Bright Moon Phases – The moon’s brightness can significantly reduce the visibility of the aurora, so try to avoid planning around full moon nights. Check the lunar calendar and aim for nights with minimal moonlight to enhance your viewing experience.
Be Flexible and Stay Informed – The Northern Lights are unpredictable, so checking the weather and Kp index forecast each evening is a must. Staying in touch with local guides or tour operators can help you stay updated on the best times and places to view the aurora.

Here are some remote and dark-sky areas in Finland and Norway that offer fantastic aurora viewing without the interference of city lights:

Finland

Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park – An ideal spot with some of Europe’s darkest skies, featuring serene forest and lake settings.
Lake Inari, Inari – With its secluded islands and boreal forest, this location is perfect for aurora enthusiasts looking for isolation.
Oulanka National Park – This park’s remote landscapes provide excellent Northern Lights viewing, with beautiful lake and forested backdrops.
Kilpisjärvi, Enontekiö – Known for its high-altitude lake and open tundra, Kilpisjärvi offers clear, expansive views.

Kaldoaivi Wilderness Area – Finland’s largest wilderness area, offering vast tundra landscapes near the Finnish-Norwegian border for ideal aurora sightings.

Norway

Dividalen National Park – A hidden gem in Troms, known for its untouched forests and minimal artificial lighting.
Kvænangen, Troms og Finnmark – A lesser-known fjord area offering breathtaking views of the Northern Lights over the water.

Øvre Pasvik National Park – This remote wilderness area near the Russian and Finnish borders is perfect for aurora hunting.
Vesterålen Archipelago – A quieter alternative to the popular Lofoten Islands, with remote spots ideal for unobstructed aurora views.
Karasjok – Located in one of Norway's most isolated areas, Karasjok provides a forested and lake-filled setting with minimal light interference.

So, as you plan your Northern Lights adventure, remember these tips and aim to relax into the journey. It’s worth it to allow a few nights, follow expert guidance, and stay flexible. With the right planning, patience, and a bit of luck, you'll be well on your way to experiencing one of nature’s most spectacular light shows.

Heramb Kulkarni @herambk

Resident of Finland Since 2005

Director @Intiamatkat, Finland