Table of Contents
Introduction
The magical, multicolored dance of the northern lights is an experience like no other. Of all the places in the world to witness this astronomical phenomenon, few can compare to Norway. Situated directly under the Aurora Oval in the far north, this Scandinavian country offers prime aurora chasing conditions. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your own Northern Lights odyssey in Norway.
Best places to see the Northern Lights in Norway
Tromsø
Known as the “Gateway to the Arctic”, the city of Tromsø is positioned right in the heart of the aurora zone. Its scenic location on an island in northern Norway makes it one of the world’s best places to see the lights.
Lofoten Islands
The dramatic peaks of the Lofoten archipelago, framed by fjords and fishing villages, provide an out-of-this-world backdrop for aurora displays. Base yourself in a traditional rorbu cabin along the shore.
Svalbard
Situated between mainland Norway and the North Pole, the remote Svalbard islands offer 24-hour darkness in winter – perfect conditions for seeing the celestial show.
Bergen
Surprisingly, Norway’s second largest city sees northern lights more often than you might expect. The mountains around Bergen funnel auroral activity southward.
Narvik
The long winter nights and position on the edge of the Arctic Circle make this coastal port town prime viewing territory. The modern Narvik Northern Lights Observatory here offers special tours.
When is the best time to see the Northern Lights in Norway
Winter months
In Norway, the northern lights season runs from late September through mid-April. The lights require darkness to be visible, so the long winter nights here provide great viewing opportunities.
Peak activity
Statistically, the month of March sees a spike in northern lights activity. But really any dark, clear night throughout the winter has potential.
Aurora forecasts and apps
Checking a forecast can help maximize sightings. Apps like Aurora Notify and websites like Space Weather watch solar activity and issue alerts when the conditions are right.
How to increase your chances of seeing the Northern Lights
Escape light pollution
To see the northern lights, get away from city lights and any other light sources. The further north you go, the less light pollution there will be.
Check aurora forecasts
Monitoring solar activity and geomagnetic forecasts will tell you when the probability of witnessing the lights is highest.
Be patient and allow time
The aurora is a natural phenomenon that can’t be scheduled. Allow several nights to increase your chances.
Don’t give up after one night
If the lights don’t appear on your first night of watching, keep trying. Persistence is key for aurora chasers.
Tips for photographing and filming the Northern Lights
Use a tripod
A sturdy tripod is essential for capturing the lights without blur, along with a remote shutter or timer to prevent camera shake.
Use manual camera settings
Switch to manual mode and adjust ISO, shutter speed, and aperture to allow enough light based on conditions.
Experiment with compositions
Compose shots using the foreground and surroundings to add interest to your images.
Include foreground interest
Have something like mountains, trees or structures in the foreground to add scale and perspective.
Things to do while Northern Lights hunting in Norway
Stay in a glass igloo
Some hotels in Norway offer unique glass igloos with transparent ceilings, allowing you to watch for the lights from your bed.
Go on a northern lights cruise
Seeing the auroras from an Arctic cruise ship or private boat tour is an incredible experience. Tours depart from cities like Tromsø.
Join a northern lights tour
Local guides lead tours taking you to prime viewing spots, provide gear, and offer photography tips. Group tours can be fun too.
Relax in a hot tub
What could be better than soaking in warmth while watching the dancing lights above in the cold night? Many hotels have outdoor hot tubs.
Snowshoe under the lights
For the truly adventurous, snowshoeing or cross-country skiing under the northern lights is unforgettable.
Plan your Northern Lights trip to Norway
Best airports
Major gateway cities with international airports include Oslo, Bergen, Trondheim and Tromsø. Connect to northern destinations from there.
Getting around
Use internal flights or Norway’s efficient rail system to reach aurora viewing areas. Rental cars and tours are other good options.
Where to stay
Base yourself in a city like Tromsø or stay in remote areas like Lofoten and Svalbard for optimal night sky viewing.
What to pack
Dress in very warm, wind/waterproof winter layers. Bring gear like headlamps, tripods, warm boots, and gloves.
Conclusion
A winter journey to Norway reward you with one of nature’s greatest wonders – the magical northern lights. With the right timing and location, your chances of experiencing the aurora borealis are excellent. Just remember to be prepared, patient and persistent. A northern lights odyssey in Norway is sure to exceed your wildest expectations and become the trip of a lifetime.
FAQs
FAQ 1: What causes the northern lights?
The northern lights are caused by solar wind collisions with gases in Earth’s atmosphere, which emit different colored light. Green is the most common, but reds, blues, and purples also occur.
FAQ 2: Where else can you see the northern lights?
Other prime northern lights destinations include Iceland, Canada, Alaska, Finland, Sweden and Greenland. However Norway is considered one of the very best places in the world.
FAQ 3: Do I need a visa to visit Norway?
Citizens of the EU, US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand do not need a visa for stays under 90 days. Other nationalities should check Norway’s visa requirements.
FAQ 4: How cold does it get in Norway in winter?
Average temperatures in northern Norway range from the -20s °C/0s °F to freezing in midwinter. However crisp, dry air makes it feel less extreme than the numbers suggest. Dress warmly in layers.
FAQ 5: What is the best way to track the northern lights?
Apps like Aurora Notify and websites like Space Weather provide real-time alerts and forecasts so you can know when solar activity is favorable for seeing the lights.