Discover the Best Months to Witness Spectacular Northern Lights in Lapland

Contents
Experience the Magic of Northern Lights in Lapland
Have you ever witnessed the breathtaking beauty of northern lights? If not, then head to Lapland – a wondrous winter wonderland known for its alluring natural beauty and stunning aurora borealis or northern lights.
About 70% of the area of Lapland lies beyond the Arctic Circle, which means it is one of the best places to see northern lights. Here, you can observe a myriad of colors dancing in the sky from green and pink to blue and yellow.
Best Months to See Northern Lights in Lapland
The best months to see northern lights in Lapland are from October to March. During this period, nights are longer, and the sky is generally clearer. However, the prime time for witnessing northern lights is from December to February due to the maximum darkness of the night hours.
October and November are also great for northern lights hunting, but the main obstacle is the cloud cover. The months of September and March offer more daylight, making the experience more adventurous and unique.
Where to See Northern Lights in Lapland
In Lapland, you can see the northern lights from almost anywhere. However, it is recommended to go outside the city areas to minimize artificial light’s effect and increase your chances of viewing the lights.
Your accommodation’s location also plays a vital role in viewing northern lights. Opt for accommodations with rooftop terraces or glass ceilings to admire the magical sky views from the warmth of your room. Some of the ideal spots to see northern lights in Lapland include Luosto, Saariselkä, Pyhä-Luosto National Park, Inari, Kilpisjärvi, and Levi.
How to See Northern Lights in Lapland
The best way to experience the magic of northern lights is by joining one of the many guided tours offered in Lapland. These tours are organized by experienced guides who take you to isolated areas for optimal aurora borealis viewing. They are also experts in cameras and can help you capture the perfect shot of the lights.
You can choose exciting tour packages such as snowshoeing, dogsledding, snowmobiling, or reindeer sleigh rides, combined with northern lights viewing. These tours are generally four hours long and can be easily booked through your hotel or tour operator.
What to Pack for Northern Lights Tour
Being well-prepared for the northern lights tour can enhance your experience significantly. Here is a checklist of essentials that you should pack:
- Thermal Clothing: It can get extremely cold in Lapland, so pack warm thermal clothing such as thermal socks, gloves, hat, and pants.
- Camera and Batteries: A good camera is essential for capturing the perfect shot of the northern lights. Don’t forget to pack extra batteries as they tend to drain fast in the cold.
- Hand and Feet Warmers: Carry hand and feet warmers to keep your extremities warm and comfortable.
- Portable Charger: Bring a portable charger to keep your phone and camera batteries charged throughout the tour.
- Headlamp: A headlamp can come in handy during the tour as it’s quite dark, and you might need to walk around.
Conclusion
Lapland is one of the most popular destinations for seeing northern lights, and for a good reason. With its stunning natural beauty, secluded locations, and diverse tour options, Lapland offers a spectacular and unforgettable experience. So, make sure to plan your trip during the best months to see northern lights in Lapland for a memorable vacation.