Aurora or Northern Lights are nature’s most spectacular light show. If you have seen, then you just need to recall your memories to remember that it’s so magical and rare phenomenon. These spectacular light shows are visible at the highest latitudes of the planet where the sun, magnetism and atmosphere collide to paint the sky in magnificent rings or curtains of light.
This Natural Phenomenon occurs about 100 km to 300 km above Earth’s sea level at the highest latitude of Arctic Region. It is nature’s one of the most spectacular phenomena. The collisions produce colors of neon green, red, pink, as well as purple. It’s a tourist delight to view this spectacular light phenomenon. However, you need certain conditions to be fulfilled such as clear skies, auroral zones, and darkness.
Here, I have listed 10 Best Places to See Aurora – The Northern Lights. So if you are a die heart traveler, you just cannot afford to miss out this spectacular natural phenomenon – The Northern Lights or Aurora.
The ideal time of viewing this phenomenon is from late November to March within the Northern Zone which includes latitudes from 65 to 72 degrees. They are created by the collision of solar particles with atmospheric gasses. So next time you plan your holidays never forget to have a look at this wonderful Natural phenomenon of Northern Lights.
Table of Contents
10 Best Places to See Aurora – Northern Lights
1. Alaska: Northern Lights in the U.S.
Alaska in the U.S. is one of the spectacular places to view Northern Lights. There are ample reasons for going to Alaska for seeing Aurora. One and foremost, Alaska falls in the “zone” which means you are sure of viewing the spectacular light show. However, you have to take certain precautions if you want to make your tour to Alaska a lifetime experience. First and Foremost you have to move away from regions of city lights into vast wilderness regions of Denali and the Yukon Territory.
2. Denmark – Norwegian Sea Islands
This Denmark owned province is one of the best to view Aurora. It is located North of Scotland between the Norwegian Sea and the North Atlantic. It is mostly known for Viking folklore. Visitors have to visit locations within Faroe Island archipelago for seeing Northern Lights or Aurora. Here the difference of altitudes and gasses create various colors, however, green is still the most common aurora.
3. Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, Canada
Canada’s Northwest Territories town Yellowknife offers an exceptional opportunity of viewing Northern Lights, Aurora Borealis. It’s clear skies make your chances all the more likely with a spectacular show of Northern Lights. It is located in the auroral zone and far enough from the nearest mountains to offer you an unobstructed view of Aurora Borealis.
4. Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik is one of the most popular places to see Northern Lights. It is also an affordable and accessible place to see Northern Lights Spectacular Light Show. There are plenty of things to do in Iceland. The best time to visit Reykjavik is from late September to early April. Flights are available from London, Edinburgh, and Birmingham. Accommodation can be quite expensive in Reykjavik.
5. Scotland
In Scotland, you will find different locations for watching this amazing Lights. Some of its noteworthy locations include Isle of Skye, Northern Highlands, and Aberdeen. Here the sky showcases aurora of different shades of green. Plus you can explore different locations in North Scotland for Northern Lights.
6. Greenland: Experience Great Auroras
Except Summer’s Midnight Sun, Greenland offers great Auroras all year round. It offers great viewing opportunities for Northern Lights with its optimal viewing areas such as south and east Greenland. Some of its best viewing locations include Kulusuk and Ammassalik.
7. Finland
One absolutely great reason why Finland is famous for is none other than the Northern Lights – Aurora Borealis. Here you get to experience a spectacular showcase of green and purple Aurora Borealis particularly in the Northern Finland, example Luosto, Nellim, etc.
8. Scotland – Beautiful Green Patterns and Blue Holes
There are plenty of spots in Scotland that enable you to view the beautiful Lights – Aurora. Some of the best viewing locations include Abisko, Kiruna, and Swedish Lapland. The unique micro-climate of these places makes them an ideal viewing spot for Northern Lights. Their dark winter nights are ideal for sky watching. “The blue hole of Abisko” retains the patch that remains clear regardless of surrounding weather pattern. Here you will find green aurora color as a most common pattern in these spots of Scotland.
9. Russia – View the Spectacular Arctic Lights
The Northern Russia is ideal for viewing Aurora – the Northern Lights. Some of the best places for viewing Aurora Borealis in Russia include Siberia, Kola Peninsula, and Murmansk. These places are close to the Northern Lights Zone. However, you have to handle the below freezing temperatures of a typical Siberian winter.
10. Norway: Observe Polar Lights and Polar Nights
Most of the towns of Norway fall within the Northern Lights Zone. The best Viewing locations include Finnmark, Alta, Tromso, and Svalbard. They exhibit green Northern Lights which is so amazing and spectacular. You can plan your travel with Fodor’s Norway Travel Guide.
Where you have seen Aurora or Northern Lights, please share by commenting below.
