The season has barely started but already aurora hunters in Norway have been treated to some spectacular northern lights in the night sky. With the news that we’re at the peak of the sun activity cycle spreading fast, many travelers are planning a trip to Scandinavia this winter with the hope of seeing the aurora for themselves.
Of course, there’s no guarantee of seeing the northern lights no matter where or when you go, or what the tour guides promise you. However, making smart travel planning decisions can significantly increase your chances.
These include the time of year (mid-September to early November and February to early April are generally considered the peak times) and also the location.
Northern Norway is an attractive location as much of it lies immediately below the aurora oval, which means you can see the lights even when the aurora forecast is relatively weak.
The basic requirements for a successful northern lights hunt are simple. You need total darkness and a clear sky. Some factors to consider here are that some coastal areas are prone to thick cloud cover, while built-up areas can leak a lot of ambient light even if you get away from the city.
It’s also important to consider your vacation as a whole. A northern lights sighting may be the goal, but plan other fun activities into the daytime and you’ll turn a good trip into a great one. If you’re unlucky and the lights don't come out to play, you’ll at least leave Northern Norway with some good memories.
So, while it’s absolutely a good idea to get as far north as possible, you should also choose a destination with plenty of other things to do especially during the day. That’s exactly why Tromsø and Alta are the two places you’ll find recommended more than any other.
The biggest city in Northern Norway tops the list of northern lights destinations for many reasons. Many tour operators compete for your business, with some promising to drive guests for several hours to find clear skies.
For a DIY approach, take the local bus to the northern side of Tromsø island or up to the small lake Prestvannet at the top of the island.
However, the real reason to choose Tromsø is to guarantee an enjoyable break regardless of your success in the evenings. Highlights on a visit to Tromsø include the polar museum, the Polaria aquarium, the family-friendly science center, and the iconic Arctic Cathedral.
Take the Fjellheisen cable car up to the mountain that overlooks the city to gain a fantastic perspective on the city and its surroundings. When bathed in the deep indigo light of the ‘blue hour’, the view seems truly surreal. Just be sure to wrap up warm, as the wind up there can be bone-chilling.
The major alternative to Tromsø in the high north is
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