The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, are one of the most magical and breathtaking natural phenomena in the world. Imagine colorful lights dancing in the sky, creating an unforgettable display. Finland is one of the best places in the world to see this incredible light show, especially because of its clear skies and long, dark winters.
But when is the best time to see the Northern Lights in Finland? And where should you go? In this article, we’ll answer these questions and guide you on how to make the most of your Northern Lights experience. Whether you are planning a trip to Finland or just dreaming of witnessing this incredible display, this guide will help you get the most out of your adventure.
Best Time to See the Northern Lights in Finland
The Northern Lights are most commonly seen during the winter months in Finland, from September to March. During these months, the nights are long and dark, which creates the perfect conditions for viewing the Aurora. However, the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, and their appearance depends on a few factors, such as solar activity and weather conditions.
Peak Season for the Northern Lights
The best months to see the Northern Lights in Finland are October through March. During this period, the nights are the longest, giving you more hours of darkness to catch the lights. The winter months, especially December, January, and February, offer the most chances to see the Aurora because of the extended dark hours and clear skies. These months have long, dark nights, which means you have more time to spot the lights.
Why Winter is Ideal for Aurora Viewing?
Here are some reasons why winter is ideal for aurora viewing:
- Long Nights: Finland experiences very long nights during the winter, especially in the far north, where you can experience several hours of darkness.
- Clear Skies: The winter weather in Finland can be cold but dry, which often leads to clear skies ideal for Northern Lights viewing.
- High Solar Activity: The Northern Lights are caused by solar activity. During the winter months, the geomagnetic conditions that cause the Aurora Borealis are more likely to be active.
Other Good Months to See the Northern Lights
While winter offers the best conditions, you can also see the Northern Lights in autumn and spring, particularly in the far northern parts of Finland.
Autumn (September to November)
The autumn months in Finland, particularly September and October, are also good for viewing the Northern Lights. The weather is still relatively mild compared to the deep winter months, but the nights are long enough to provide a chance to see the Aurora.
Why Visit in Autumn:
The landscape is beautiful with the changing leaves, and the weather is not as cold as in winter, making it more comfortable for outdoor activities. This can be an excellent time for a combination of sightseeing and Aurora watching.
Spring (March)
March is another great month to see the Northern Lights. The days are starting to get longer, but the nights are still long enough to give you a good chance of seeing the Aurora. The weather starts to warm up a bit, and you can enjoy the last of the winter activities.
Why Visit in Spring:
You’ll still have plenty of chances to catch the Northern Lights, and the milder temperatures mean you can enjoy activities like snowshoeing and skiing in comfort.
Where to See the Northern Lights in Finland?
To get the best chance of seeing the Northern Lights, you need to go to the right places. The key is to get as far north as possible, where the skies are darker, and the lights are most visible. Finland’s Lapland region is one of the best places to see the Aurora Borealis.
Rovaniemi
Rovaniemi is the capital of Lapland and is located right on the Arctic Circle. It’s a popular destination for seeing the Northern Lights, and you’ll also find a variety of activities in the area, including husky safaris, snowmobile tours, and visits to Santa Claus Village.
Why Visit Rovaniemi:
The town’s location on the Arctic Circle makes it one of the best places to see the Northern Lights. Plus, it’s easy to get to, with good transport connections from Helsinki and other parts of Finland.
Inari
If you’re looking for a more peaceful and remote experience, Inari is the perfect spot. Located even further north than Rovaniemi, Inari is a small village surrounded by forests and lakes, offering a truly magical experience for Northern Lights enthusiasts.
Why Visit Inari:
Inari is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights in Finland, especially since it is far from city lights. The clear skies in the area make it a prime location for Aurora viewing. You can also enjoy the beautiful surrounding nature, including the Inari Lake and the Siida Museum.
Luosto
Luosto is a small village in Lapland, far from the crowds of the larger cities. This quiet, remote area offers great opportunities for seeing the Northern Lights without the distraction of city lights.
Why Visit Luosto:
The area is known for its clear skies and minimal light pollution, making it one of the best places for an undisturbed Northern Lights experience. You can stay in unique glass igloos or cabins, allowing you to watch the lights from the warmth of your room.
Tips for Seeing the Northern Lights
While seeing the Northern Lights is never guaranteed, there are several tips to help you increase your chances:
Check the Aurora Forecast
Before heading out, always check the Aurora forecast. Different websites provide real-time predictions based on solar activity. These forecasts help you know when the Northern Lights are most likely to appear in your area.
Go to Dark Locations
The key to seeing the Northern Lights is getting away from the city lights. The farther you are from artificial lights, the better your chances of seeing the Aurora. Even in popular tourist areas, try to find a dark spot away from the streetlights.
Look to the North
The Northern Lights are most often visible in the northern part of the sky. Once you’re in a dark spot, look towards the north, and you’ll have the best chance of seeing the lights.
Be Patient and Prepared
The Northern Lights are unpredictable, and sometimes it can take hours of waiting before they appear. Dress warmly, bring a thermos of hot drinks, and be ready to enjoy the show when it happens.
Conclusion
Seeing the Northern Lights in Finland is a magical experience that you will never forget. The best time to see the lights is during the winter months from September to March, with December to February offering the highest chances. If you’re traveling to Finland, head north to places like Rovaniemi, Inari, or Luosto to get the best view of the Northern Lights.
Remember to check the Aurora forecast, find dark spots away from city lights, and be patient. With a little planning and the right conditions, you’ll have the chance to see one of the world’s most beautiful natural wonders.
People Also Ask:
Can I see the Northern Lights in Finland all year round?
No. The best time to see the Northern Lights is during the winter months, from September to March. The lights are more visible when the nights are long and dark.
Is it possible to see the Northern Lights in Helsinki?
While it’s possible to see the Northern Lights in Helsinki, it’s much harder due to the city lights. For the best chance, head to northern Finland, like Rovaniemi, Inari, or Luosto, where the skies are darker.
Do I need special equipment to see the Northern Lights?
No. You don’t need any special equipment to see the Northern Lights with your eyes. However, if you want to photograph the lights, a camera with manual settings is recommended.
Can I see the Northern Lights every night in Finland?
The Northern Lights are not visible every night. Solar activity must be high, and the sky must be clear for the Aurora to appear. Checking the Aurora forecast will help you plan your trip.
