How to spot northern lights in Finland

Prime Viewing Months for Aurora Borealis

The best time to see the Northern Lights in Finland is from late September to early April.

During this period, the long, dark nights provide the perfect backdrop for the auroras to shine.

Fall (September to November):

The start of the aurora season brings fewer tourists, making for a quieter experience. The nights are long, and the temperatures are not as harsh as winter, making outdoor activities more comfortable.

Winter (December to February):

This is the peak season for Northern Lights viewing. The nights are the longest and the snow-covered landscapes provide a magical setting for aurora sightings. However, it is also the coldest period, so dressing warmly is essential. The Auroras in Finland December are particularly stunning due to the festive atmosphere and snowy scenery.

Spring (March to April):

The season extends into early spring, offering another opportunity to see the lights. The weather starts to warm up slightly, and the daylight hours increase, but the nights are still long enough for good viewing. One of the best most to visit Finnish Lapland and spot the Northern lights is therefore March.

Summer:

Due to the nightless nights and bright skies, you can't see Northern lights in summer in Finland.

Clear skies are crucial for viewing the Northern Lights.

Cloud cover can obstruct the view, making it essential to choose a location with minimal light pollution and favorable weather conditions.

Lapland, the northernmost region of Finland, is renowned for its optimal conditions for viewing the Northern Lights. The combination of high latitude, minimal light pollution, and clear skies makes it a top destination for aurora enthusiasts. Here are some of the best spots in Lapland:

Famous for its glass igloos, Kakslauttanen offers a unique way to experience the Northern Lights. Guests can stay in heated glass igloos designed specifically for aurora viewing, allowing them to enjoy the spectacle from the comfort of their beds. This makes Kakslauttanen a prime location for witnessing the Lapland Northern Lights.

However, this is not the accommodation with the best reputation in Finnish Lapland if I'm very honest.

Better to browse other great glass igloo stays in Lapland here.

Located in the wilderness of Lapland, Saariselkä is another prime spot for Northern Lights viewing. The area's remote location ensures minimal light pollution, and the expansive night sky provides a stunning backdrop for the auroras. Saariselkä is perfect for those seeking an immersive experience of the Northern Lights in Lapland.

Ylläs is known for its dedication to preserving the night sky for Northern Lights viewing. One of the best spots is the Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park. Another excellent location is the top of Ylläs fell. Accessible by gondola, the summit offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and the night sky.

This coastal town is famous for its Snow Castle. Kemi’s location by the sea and its clear skies make it an excellent spot for witnessing the Northern Lights in Lapland.

The combination of coastal beauty and the Northern Lights makes Kemi a unique destination.

NOTE: The coastal air and wind makes Kemi also very cold (maybe self-explanatory that it’s cold in North in winter, yet wanted to add this disclaimer. :D)

Located in the far north, Utsjoki is one of Finland's best-kept secrets for aurora hunting.

Its remote location ensures clear skies and minimal light pollution, making it a fantastic place to see and photograph Northern Lights in Finland.

However, the more north you go, the amount of services and amenities also decrease, yet it comes with natural beauty and untouched wilderness.

Getting to these prime Northern Lights locations in Finland is relatively straightforward.

Most visitors fly into Helsinki, the capital, and then take a connecting flight to one of Lapland’s airports, such as Rovaniemi, Ivalo, or Kittilä.

From there, rental cars, buses, and guided tours are available to transport you to your final destination. Many Northern Lights resorts and accommodations offer shuttle services from the nearest airports, making it convenient for travelers.

You can discover all smoothest travel options here: How to travel to Finnish Lapland

By choosing these locations and planning your travel accordingly, you can maximize your chances of witnessing the breathtaking Northern Lights in Finland.

When planning a Northern Lights adventure in Finnish Lapland, selecting the right accommodation is key to enhancing your experience. Here are some top recommendations for accommodations known for their excellent Aurora Borealis views:

Experiencing the Northern Lights in Finnish Lapland is a magical adventure, and guided tours can enhance this experience by offering unique perspectives and local expertise.

Here’s an overview of the various Northern Lights tours available in Finland:

For a thrilling way to explore the Finnish wilderness at night, consider a snowmobiling tour. Snowmobiling tours offer an exciting adventure through the snowy landscapes, often leading to prime Northern Lights viewing spots. These tours provide a dynamic way to cover more ground and witness the Aurora Borealis in its full glory.

For a cultural twist on your Northern Lights adventure, consider a reindeer safari. These safaris offer a traditional Finnish experience, allowing you to travel through the snow-covered landscapes in a reindeer-drawn sleigh. Alongside the opportunity to view the Aurora Borealis, you’ll gain insight into the local Sámi culture and traditions.

Experience the Finnish landscape in a unique and traditional way with husky sledding tours. Guided by a team of enthusiastic huskies, these tours offer a serene yet exhilarating ride through snowy forests and frozen lakes. The combination of the stunning snowy scenery and the chance to see the Northern Lights makes husky sledding a memorable experience.

Staying in a glass igloo designed specifically for Northern Lights viewing combines accommodation with a unique experience.

These igloos are equipped with large glass walls and ceilings that provide panoramic views of the night sky, making them an ideal choice for watching the Aurora Borealis from the comfort of your own space.

Check also: A curated list of best luxury accommodation in Lapland

Experiencing the Aurora Borealis is a breathtaking adventure. To maximize your chances of seeing the Finland Aurora, follow these essential tips:

Dress warmly in layers to stay comfortable in the Arctic temperatures.

Essential items include thermal clothing, a good quality winter jacket, gloves, and a hat.

For capturing the Northern Lights on camera, bring a tripod, a DSLR or mirrorless camera with manual settings, and a wide-angle lens.

Extra batteries are also crucial, as cold temperatures can drain them quickly.

Seek out locations with minimal artificial light. Areas away from city lights offer the best chance for a clear view of the Aurora Finland.

Popular spots include remote wilderness lodges and glass igloos designed for aurora viewing.

Check the Northern Lights Forecast Finland to choose nights with clear skies. Websites like Nordic Visitor provide up-to-date forecasts to help you plan the best nights for viewing.

Guided Tours vs. Solo Exploration: While exploring on your own is possible, guided tours offer valuable advantages.

Guides know the best spots for viewing, provide safety in challenging conditions, and enhance your experience with local knowledge.

Tours often include transportation and equipment, which can be a significant benefit.

The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon and can be unpredictable. Be prepared to spend time outdoors and be patient. Sometimes, waiting for a few hours or multiple nights can increase your chances of seeing the Aurora Borealis.

Flexibility in your plans can make a big difference.

There are a few apps that help you to get notified when there’s a chance to spot northern lights.

Also in many accommodations there is a real person checking in case there are auroras visible and you can ask them to give you a call to your room to get real human perceived aurora alert.

I recommend checking these two sites for checking aurora probability:

https://rwc-finland.fmi.fi/

https://www.ilmatieteenlaitos.fi/revontulet-ja-avaruussaa