How to See Northern Lights in Finnish Lapland
Witnessing the Aurora Borealis dance across the Arctic sky is a dream for many, and Finnish Lapland offers one of the world's most spectacular stages for this natural phenomenon. With its vast, unspoiled wilderness and minimal light pollution, Finland provides an unparalleled opportunity to experience the magic of the Northern Lights.
Understanding the Aurora Borealis in Lapland
The Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights, is a celestial ballet of light caused by collisions between electrically charged particles from the sun that enter the Earth's atmosphere. These collisions produce vibrant green, pink, purple, and red lights that shimmer and move across the night sky.
Finnish Lapland's prime location, situated well above the Arctic Circle, places it directly beneath the auroral oval – the zone where auroras are most frequently seen. This geographical advantage, combined with its long, dark winter nights and often clear, crisp air, makes it an ideal destination for aurora hunting.
Fun Fact:The Finnish word for Northern Lights isrevontulet, which literally translates to "fox fires." Ancient Finnish folklore tells of an Arctic fox sweeping its tail across the snowy fells, sending sparks up into the sky to create the aurora.
When to Go: Timing Your Trip for Optimal Viewing
The Northern Lights season in Finnish Lapland typically runs from late August to early April. However, specific periods often yield the best results:
- Autumn (September & October):While nights aren't as long as in winter, cooler temperatures often bring clearer skies after the summer mists have cleared. The contrast of auroras reflecting on lakes before they freeze over can be particularly stunning.
- Winter (November to March):This is the peak season, offering the longest and darkest nights. However, winter also brings extreme cold and often heavy snowfall, which can obscure the sky. February and March often balance cold, clear nights with increasing daylight hours, making them popular choices.
- Time of Day:Auroras are most active between 9 PM and 2 AM, though they can appear anytime from sunset to sunrise. Patience is key!
While the cold can be intense, it often correlates with clearer, drier air, which is ideal for aurora viewing. Always check long-range weather forecasts and aurora predictions before and during your trip.
Choosing Your Finnish Lapland Base Camp
Finnish Lapland offers numerous excellent locations to base your aurora hunt. The key is to choose a spot away from significant light pollution and with good accessibility to dark sky areas.
- Rovaniemi: The Official Hometown of Santa Claus
As the capital of Lapland,Rovaniemi is easily accessible by plane or train. It offers a wide range of accommodation and activities, making it a great base for families or those seeking more amenities. While the city itself has some light pollution, guided tours can easily take you to pristine dark spots just outside town. Don't miss the chance to visit Santa Claus Village while you're there! - Levi: Skiing and Auroras
Levi is one of Finland's most popular ski resorts, offering a fantastic combination of winter sports and aurora viewing opportunities. The fells surrounding Levi provide elevated, open viewpoints, and many tour operators run aurora safaris from the area. - Saariselkä & Inari: Further North, Darker Skies
These villages in Northern Lapland offer even darker skies due to their more remote locations. Saariselkä is known for its beautiful fells and national park access, while Inari, located by the vast Lake Inari, is a hub for Sámi culture and provides incredible opportunities for aurora photography over frozen lakes. - Kilpisjärvi: The Far North-West
Located in the extreme northwest of Finland, Kilpisjärvi is one of the most reliable places for aurora sightings due to its high latitude and extremely dark skies. It's more remote, but for serious aurora hunters, it’s an exceptional choice.
No matter where you choose, ensure your accommodation offers easy access to areas free from streetlights and urban glow.
Maximizing Your Chances: Practical Tips for Aurora Hunting
While seeing the Northern Lights always involves an element of luck, you can significantly improve your odds with some strategic planning.
1. Get Away from Light Pollution
This is arguably the most crucial tip. Even a small amount of artificial light can diminish the aurora's visibility. Venture out of towns and villages into the wilderness. Many hotels in Lapland are designed with this in mind, often having designated dark spots or offering aurora alerts.
2. Dress for Extreme Cold
Lapland winters are incredibly cold, with temperatures often dropping below -20°C (-4°F) and sometimes even -30°C (-22°F) or lower. Layering is essential: thermal base layers, a warm mid-layer (fleece or wool), and a waterproof, windproof outer layer. Don't forget insulated boots, thick socks, a warm hat, gloves or mittens, and a scarf or balaclava. Hand and foot warmers can also be a lifesaver.
3. Stay Up Late and Be Patient
Auroras are dynamic and unpredictable. They might appear faintly for a few minutes, disappear, and then return with incredible intensity an hour later. Many of the most spectacular displays occur in the late evening or early morning hours. Be prepared for long waits in the cold.
4. Check Forecasts Regularly
Utilize aurora forecast websites and apps that predict geomagnetic activity (Kp-index) and cloud cover. A Kp-index of 3 or higher is generally good for viewing in Lapland, but even a Kp-2 can produce a visible display on a clear, dark night. Clear skies are non-negotiable.
5. Consider a Guided Tour
Local guides have invaluable knowledge of the best viewing spots, understand local weather patterns, and can provide transport to remote areas. Many tours combine aurora hunting with other Lapland experiences like snowmobiling, husky sledding, or reindeer sleigh rides. They often provide warm clothing and hot drinks, making the experience more comfortable.
6. Photography Tips
If you plan to capture the aurora, a tripod is essential for long exposures. A wide-angle lens, a camera with manual settings (high ISO, wide aperture, long shutter speed), and a remote shutter release will greatly improve your chances of getting stunning shots. Practice your night photography settings before you go.
Beyond the Lights: Lapland Winter Experiences
Even if the Northern Lights are elusive, Finnish Lapland offers a wealth of unforgettable winter activities that make the journey worthwhile.
- Husky Safaris:Glide through snow-covered forests pulled by a team of enthusiastic huskies.
- Reindeer Sleigh Rides:Experience a traditional mode of transport, often combined with visits to Sámi reindeer farms.
- Snowmobiling:Explore the vast wilderness on powerful snowmobiles, often reaching remote aurora viewing spots.
- Skiing and Snowboarding:Enjoy pristine slopes and cross-country trails.Levi is a premier destination for downhill skiing, while most areas offer extensive cross-country routes.
- Ice Fishing:Try your hand at a traditional Arctic pastime on a frozen lake.
- Visiting Snow Castles:Immerse yourself in impressive ice architecture, such as the famous Kemin LumiLinna Snow Castle(though located outside Lapland, it's a popular winter attraction).
- Meeting Santa Claus:In Rovaniemi, you can visit Santa Claus Village and meet Santa himself any time of year.
Accommodation Options for an Enhanced Experience
Finnish Lapland offers unique accommodation choices that can enhance your aurora experience:
- Glass Igloos and Aurora Cabins:These offer transparent roofs or large windows, allowing you to watch for the aurora from the warmth and comfort of your bed.
- Traditional Log Cabins:Cozy and authentic, many come with their own saunas, perfect for warming up after a night out.
- Ice Hotels:For a truly unique stay, consider sleeping in a room made entirely of ice and snow.
Seeing the Northern Lights in Finnish Lapland is an extraordinary adventure that combines natural wonder with thrilling Arctic experiences. By planning carefully, embracing the cold, and keeping an eye on the sky, you stand an excellent chance of witnessing one of Earth's most breathtaking spectacles.