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Experience the Northern Lights in Greenland

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Published: 17/06/2020

Reading time: 9 minutes

When is the best time to see the Northern Lights in Greenland? Why is Greenland the best place to see them?  And what exactly are they anyway? Read on to discover why you should choose Greenland over other places for your Northern Lights experience of a lifetime.

The Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) are the shimmering curtains of predominantly green light that brighten Instagram feeds every northern hemisphere winter.  They are nature’s winter light show that is screened against a backdrop of stars and only available at open-air theatres at certain latitudes. Greenland offers you front-row seats to one of the most magical spectacles you will ever see.

What are the Northern Lights really?        

Our Sun constantly sends out a stream of charged particles in every direction in the form of the Solar Wind. When those charged particles that are directed towards Earth reach the protective magnetic field that surrounds our planet, they spiral in and interact with molecules in the atmosphere – exciting them with a temporary boost of energy. When these molecules drop back down to their normal state, they release this energy in the form of light – the Aurorae.

This process becomes more extreme (and the Northern Lights are much stronger) when the Sun is more active with sunspots, solar flares and even bigger releases of particles called Coronal Mass Ejections.  Although this follows an 11 year activity cycle and the last maximum occurred in 2013, don’t worry!  The Sun is always active and the lights are still very visible and an unbelievable sight even under normal circumstances.

Why are the Northern Lights Green?       

While green is by far the most common color, aurora can also range from red through to purple. The color depends on which molecule in the atmosphere is releasing the extra energy and also its altitude.

Red = Oxygen above 200km

Green = Oxygen between 100km and 200km

Blue = Nitrogen at less than 100km

The reason that green is the most common is because it is at these altitudes that most of the charged particles from the Sun interact with the atmosphere. Also our eyes are most sensitive to light emitted at these color wavelengths.

What is the best time to see the Northern Lights?       

Given their source of origin, the Northern Lights occur all year round.  However, they are easily overpowered by the light from the Sun, and their strength depends on the strength of the interaction between the charged solar particles and the molecules in the Earth’s atmosphere.  

For these reasons, you have the best chance of seeing the lights during the darker, winter months (September through to early-April in the Northern Hemisphere), and when the Sun is very active. Even then, there is still no guarantee they will play across the sky, but packing your winter woolies will give you the best chance to see them.

Another thing to consider is the phase of the Moon.  While a full moon will help illuminate foreground objects for photography, if you just want to experience the Northern Lights and not worry about your camera too much, it is much better to do so without the Moon.  In other words, you want to time your visit to be within a week of the New Moon – preferably the week before if you want to go to bed early-ish. You can easily check for  the date of the Full Moon in Nuuk  (and other places) here.

One final complication is the weather.  Even though it feels like you can reach out and touch them, the Northern Lights usually occur at an altitude of more than 80km – well above any clouds that might be around.  You will need clear or semi-clear nights to be able to see them.

Where can I experience the Northern Lights?       

The Northern Lights actually occur in an “auroral oval” – a ring that takes in the northern-most parts of Canada, Alaska, Russia and Scandinavia, as well as Iceland and Southern Greenland. There is a similar auroral oval formed in the Southern Hemisphere which results in the Aurora Australis.

Note that the auroral oval is a band passing through these countries, so be careful to not go too far north or you will miss it entirely!

Why is Greenland the best place to see the Northern Lights?       

Although there are plenty of different places from which to enjoy the Northern Lights, we think that Greenland is the best.  Here’s why:

1) With its tiny population and small towns, Greenland has minimal light pollution.  This means that you can see the Northern Lights from wherever you are, even if you are downtown in its capital,  Nuuk ! Obviously, you will get a better view if you head out of town slightly, but it doesn’t take much to find a very dark place from which to enjoy the show.

2) With more than 300 clear nights per year,  Kangerlussuaq  offers one of the best chances across the entire Arctic to witness the Northern Lights.

3) If luck is not on your side and for some reason you do not get to see the Northern Lights, Greenland has plenty more to offer during the winter. Some say that winter is actually the best time to visit, when the country’s staggering natural beauty is enhanced by the pristine snow that covers the landscape.  

Depending on where you are in the country, get the most out of your trip by filling your days with dog sledding, snowshoeing, skiing, and snowmobiling. Explore  Guide to Greenland  for the most comprehensive list of  day-tour  and  extended package options  in the country.

Where is the best place in Greenland to see the Northern Lights?        

It is possible to see the Northern Lights from Nanortalik in the South, to Ittoqqortoormiit in the East, and  Ilulissat (and even Uummannaq ) in the North.  It doesn’t really matter where you are in Greenland (except the far north, which is outside of the auroral oval), your Northern Lights experience will be exceptional.  

However, if we had to choose our Top 3 locations, they would be:

If you are coming from Copenhagen, this is where you will first land in Greenland.  With its stable climate (the reason the international airport is located in this small town rather than in the capital) and 300 clear nights per year, it gives you one of the best chances of seeing the Northern Lights, especially if you are short on time.  In fact, a research station to study the polar upper atmosphere (including the Northern Lights) is located only 15km away at Kelly Ville and has been in operation for more than 30 years!

Although the lights are readily visible from within the town, it is always better to  head out on a northern lights tour  to eliminate as much light pollution as possible.  And don’t forget to visit the immense  Greenland Icesheet or the impressive Russell Glacier  while you are in  Kangerlussuaq .

Imagine sitting on a cliff with enormous icebergs below and the sky dancing with light above.  Ilulissat  is the home of the famous UNESCO World Heritage Listed Icefjord where icebergs the size of skyscrapers are not uncommon.  During the winter, it is a surreal landscape in which to view the Northern Lights.

Head out of town on  snowshoes, snowmobile or on a drive  to experience the Aurora Borealis in all their glory, and make the most of your days by exploring this incredibly beautiful area on a  dogsled, snowshoe or snowmobile excursion .

Believe it or not, Greenland’s largest city,  Nuuk , also makes our list of where to see the Northern Lights. And there aren’t too many capital cities with that claim to fame! Explore Greenlandic culture and the world’s second-largest fjord system by day, and see  nature’s light show at night on a tour  to the darkest areas on the outskirts of town or from the fjord. If the sky is glowing over the iconic Sermitsiaq mountain (in particular) it is an incredible view.

Where can I get current information about the Northern Lights?       

One of the best apps for staying up to date with what is happening with the Northern Lights is Northern Light Aurora Forecast  ( iOS / Android ).  

The most important information is:

• the Kp number. Shown under “Short fcst”, this indicates the probability of seeing the Northern Lights. A Kp=3 or higher is a good predictor of the Northern Lights being visible (assuming there are no clouds), but it is still possible to see them with a Kp of 1 or 2. They may also not appear at all, even with a high Kp number – it all depends on the weather in space.   
• The weather and moon. You will not see the Northern Lights if it is cloudy, as they are located several kilometers above the ground. They are also much more difficult to see (or need to be stronger in order to see them) if the moon is near full. In this case, their light is drowned out by the bright light of the moon.
• the location of the Auroral oval. This is found under “Graph” and shows the location and strength of the Northern Lights in image form. 

You will need to be connected to the internet or mobile data to access the current forecast, but you can see what the prediction is for days ahead under “Long fcst” (Note: extended forecasts are paid functions).

A website that offers the same information in a relatively easy to interpret manner is  Aurora Service Europe . 

And don’t forget the weather on Earth!  You aren’t going to see any Northern Lights if it is cloudy!

​Our recommendation is Yr.no from the Norwegian Meteorological Institute and can be accessed as either an app ( iOS  /  Android ) or a website. Most of the main towns of Greenland have their own entry (the weather varies considerably across the enormous island), and the information can be viewed as an immediate summary or as a several-day forecast. 

• Check out our Useful Tools for traveling in Greenland article for more information

What should I pack when planning a Northern Lights trip?       

Given that the best time to see the Northern Lights is during Winter, and that this time of year tends to be pretty cold in Greenland, it is important to pack carefully so that you can fully enjoy your experience.

As always, layers are the key. Especially if you are snowshoeing out to your Northern Lights viewing location. The colder the weather, the more layers you are going to need. If anything, we suggest overdressing because you can always remove layers.

Read our full article on the best clothing to pack for a trip to arctic Greenland , or watch the video version for Winter here.

If you are snowshoeing to your Northern Lights viewing point, you will probably want to take off the mid-layer while moving, but quickly put it back on again as soon as you reach your destination.  

For snowmobiling, many tour operators provide a heavy winter jacket and pants to keep you warm while on the back of the machine – but make sure you double-check with them what is included in each tour.

• A head torch is useful to see where you are going as you head out to your viewing location.  Try to find one with a red LED, as red light affects night vision much less than white light and your eyes won’t take as long to adjust to the darkness
• A thermos with a hot drink.  If you go on one of the many  guided Northern Lights tours , this is often included
• Photography gear.  While it is possible to take basic photos with your phone (make sure you download one of the Northern Lights photography apps beforehand), if you are serious about photographing the Northern Lights, you will need more specialised equipment. 

Plan your Northern Lights trip to Greenland        

Are you ready to see nature’s brilliant light show in one of the most impressive places on Earth? Follow our 4 step plan: 

• Have a look through the  largest collection of Northern Lights tours available in Greenland  here on Guide to Greenland
• Make the hard decision of where you are going to visit in Greenland to see the Northern Lights, but also experience more of its culture and dramatic scenery
• If your tour does not include flights from Denmark or Iceland, check out our  how to get to Greenland page , where you can also book your flights.
• Pack your bags with the above-recommended items, and we’ll see you here soon!

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Northern Lights in Greenland – Ultimate Viewing Guide & Top Tips

Witnessing the Northern Lights in Greenland is spectacular . It offers one of the most awe-inspiring locations to behold the world’s most magnificent light display. The exemplary beauty held in the dramatic backdrops, remote wilderness and colossal icebergs, set a scene so magical, you’ll have to pinch yourself. 

Our detailed guide to the Northern Lights will tell you everything you need to know!

If you are looking to see the Northern Lights for yourself in Greenland don’t forget to check out our East Greenland Expedition Micro Cruise with 12 Guests or Northern Lights Photo Tour.

Understanding the Northern lights

The phenomenon of the Northern Lights has captivated humanity for centuries, attracting modern-day explorers from around the globe to venture into the polar regions, but what are the Northern Lights? 

It was only in the 20th century that the science behind the Northern Lights was proven. Norwegian scientist, Kristian Birkeland was the first to propose his theory that electrically charged particles from the sun reacting with the Earth’s magnetic field and gases in our atmosphere were the cause of the Northern Lights. 

It’s only a very small percentage of particles that leak through to the Earth’s magnetic field that are funnelled downwards to the magnetic north and south poles. This is why locations situated inside the Arctic Circle are the best for viewing the Northern Light.

What causes the different colours in the Northern Lights?

The colours of the northern lights are determined by a number of factors:

• Composition of gases in Earth’s atmosphere
• The altitude where the aurora occurs
• Density of the atmosphere
• Level of energy involved

Every atom or molecule possesses its distinct range of colours that it absorbs and emits, akin to our individual fingerprints!

The prevailing shade is green, resulting from the collision of charged particles with oxygen molecules. Meanwhile, nitrogen molecules produce reds and pink tints, whereas the elusive blues and purples, (more challenging to spot against the nocturnal expanse) emerge through a combination of hydrogen and helium.

The Northern Lights witnessed in Scoresby Sund in East Greenland by Virgil Reglioni on Our Northern Lights Photo Expedition.

Factors affecting the Northern Lights

The visibility of the Northern Lights depends on the following key elements: 

• The magnetic activity of the Earth (how much the Earth’s magnetic field is disturbed at that time) 
• Your geographical location
• Light pollution 
• The weather 

Forecasts showing the magnetic activity can be found on The Geophysical Institute at the University of Alaska , which allows you to view predicted activity in all auroral regions. 

The best conditions for viewing the Nothern Lights are when: 

• Magnetic activity reaches about 4Kp 
• Within the Arctic circle 
• Little to 0% light pollution 
• Clear evenings 

Why Greenland? 

The majority of Greenland is positioned perfectly within the Arctic Circle, making it one of the best locations to witness the Northern Lights. It comes as no surprise that the natural phenomenon holds such significance in Greenland, that it has been interwoven into the traditional beliefs of the Greenlandic Inuit for many generations. 

Greenland is one of the least inhabited countries in the world, therefore light pollution as a whole is minimal, making it all the better to watch the display. But there’s one place that truly stands out – Scroresby Sund. (Our favourite destination) 

We must remember, that while the Northern Lights are undeniably breathtaking, the destination itself plays an equally significant role in the overall experience.

Scoresby Sund is an extraordinary destination, boasting the world’s largest fjord system. Accessible for only a brief period of the year due to its remote location, this region is dictated by the wilderness. The absence of light pollution reveals jaw-dropping backdrops and colossal icebergs, bigger than anywhere else in the world, enhancing the already surreal experience. 

Find out more about our expeditions to Scoresby Sund here .

Myths and legends 

Where do we start when it comes to the numerous myths and legends linked to the Northern Lights?

There’s no denying the spectacular display induces magical properties. Their captivating enchantment has enticed mankind for thousands of years and the northern lights are still amongst the most popular attraction for explorers today. 

Whatever tale you resonate with, one this is for sure – whether good or evil, the Northern Lights signify great importance and power. 

Explore our top 5 myths and legends surrounding the Northern Lights…

1. warriors souls .

The Vikings believed that in each battle taken place on earth, Odin the God of Asgard would personally select the fallen warriors to join him in the sacred afterlife, Valhalla. 

The fallen warriors were guided to the sacred realm by the Valkyries – powerful women riding horses, decorated in armour, brandishing spears and shields. 

Folklore believes that the Northern Lights were the shimmering reflections of the Valkyries armour on their journey to Odin’s realm with the chosen fallen warriors. 

2. Ominous Turn of Events  

In contrast to the tales of heroism and valour, the northern lights phenomena were met with fear by the Sámi people; the indigenous Finno-Ugric inhabitants of northern Scandinavia.

The Sámi believe that the lights represent souls of the past and their presence is regarded as an omen of misfortune. 

A mixture of fear, caution and respect casts rule that one should not converse about the Northern Lights or do anything to attract any attention including singing or whistling. Erring on the side of caution,  the Sámi community choose to remain indoors when the Northern Lights cast their luminous glow across the sky. It’s believed that the lights can take a person and even severe one’s head. 

3. The Fire Fox 

In Finland, it’s believed that the ‘fire foxes’ are responsible for the Northern Lights. ‘Revontulet’ is the Finnish word for the Northern Lights which is translated to ‘fire fox’ – hence the origin of the myth.

The Finnish narrative recounts that the foxes dashed so quickly across the sky, that as their tales brushed past the snowy mountains, snowflakes were scattered across the sky. These snowflakes reflected the moon’s radiant glow, giving rise to the Northern Lights. 

4. Childbirth 

The Eskimo tribes believed that the Northern Lights were the souls of the children lost at childbirth. They also believed that they could use the Aurora to communicate with their dead relatives. 

Icelandic ancestors believed that the Northern Lights had the power to relieve the pain of childbirth as long as the expecting mother did not look directly at the lights. However, if she did it was said the child would be born cross-eyed. 

5. Skull Cosmic Games 

In the north of Greenland, the Inuit community held a belief that the Northern Lights were the spirits of the dead engaging in cosmic games, using a walrus skull. Interestingly, in different local Inuit groups, an alternative interpretation took shape, suggesting that it was the walruses themselves engaging in these cosmic games, using a human skull in their playful activities

Aurora Borealis

The Northern Lights are often referred to as the ‘aurora borealis’, which originated from Italian astronomer, Galileo Galilei in 1619.  Derived from Greek mythology, Aurora was the goddess of dawn and the word “Borealis” comes from the Greek word “boreas,” which means “north wind.” Aurora Borealis simply translates to “northern dawn”. 

However, ancient cave paintings dating back around 30,000 years portray what resembles the northern light, potentially bearing a distinct name in those times.

When is the best time to visit? 

The Northern Lights are present all year round however, the best viewing is in the darkness of the winter season.  

• The winter season is from mid-September to April and the best time to witness the Northern Lights
• The most active Aurora is around the equinoxes in March and September 
• The Northern Lights most commonly appear between 17.00 and 02.00
• The Northern Lights usually only appear for a few minutes. A good display can last up to around 15-30 minutes, however, it’s been known to extend to over 2 hours

Where’s best to watch the Northern Lights in Greenland? 

The majority of Greenland sits within the Arctic Circle, making it a prime location for viewing the Northern Lights. Typically, the Northern Lights are seen clearest from 68 ° – 74 ° N latitude – Greenland is located between 60° and 85°N latitude, making it an ideal location! 

A small ship is the perfect way to explore Greenland… Imagine sitting on deck with a warm cup of cocoa, anchored in a fjord entirely isolated from the rest of the world. Just you, nature and the Northern Lights dancing overhead… 

Discover our Expedition Micro Cruises with 12 Guests to Greenland

Scoresby Sund 

Socresby Sund is one of the most remote destinations you can reach in Greenland. Situated on the east coast, it has one of the largest fjord systems in the world! 

Engulfed by colossal icebergs, dramatic scenery it offers the perfect setting, but this specific location is rare in that it has 0% light pollution, making this likely one the best locations to witness the northern lights. 

Choose our 8-day photo tour for the best chance in seeing the Northern Lights in Scoresby Sund.

Ilulisat is located on the west coast of Greenland and 250km north of the Arctic Circle, offering excellent opportunities to witness the northern lights.  

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004, Ilulisat’s beauty adds to the experience. 

Nuuk is the capital of Greenland and is located south of the Polar Circle. The northern lights are often seen here and sometimes quite significant,  however, the town emits a lot of light pollution from shops, houses and street lighting reducing the overall effect.

Guided Tours vs. Solo Adventures

Planning your expedition can be an overwhelming prospect. The remote, harsh conditions of Greenland are not to be underestimated. Any expedition into these territories demands serious consideration and experience.

Guided tours are the best way to get the most out of your expedition. Witnessing the Northern Lights at their best hinge upon a number of factors and demand time and expertise. 

Our guides at Secret Atlas are experts in their field and regardless of how much research you undertake, nothing beats personal experience. As you embrace the environment, our guides interpret forecasts, ensuring you have the best opportunity to witness the Northern Lights.

Apart from providing invaluable insights, historical context, and practical advice, they’ve got pretty adept at sharing the alluring myths and legends that play a vital part in the mystery.  

Meet the Secret Atlas team 

Photographing the Northern Lights 

Numerous variables come into play when photographing the Northern Lights; it’s a bit of trial and error, even for the pros! 

The shifting canvas of the night sky is ever-changing, meaning so are your camera settings but don’t be put off – the joy lies in experimentation.

We’ve put together some top tips to help you capture the perfect shot.  If you’re interested in taking your photography further, why not check out our dedicated Photo Tours ?

Essential Equipment for Photographing the Northern Lights

• Choose a camera with manual settings options – this must include, the f-stop, shutter speed and ISO. 
• A full-frame camera will produce much higher-quality photos.

2. Batteries

• Batteries drain much quicker in the cold, so ensure to have enough spare to switch out if necessary 
• Keeping your space batteries in a pocket close to your body will extend their life

3. Memory Cards

• Make sure you have enough storage on your memory card – it’s best to bring multiple cards 

4. Camera Lens 

• A wide-angle lens is often preferred as this allows you to capture more of the sky
• A wide-angle lens has a focal length of 35mm or shorter.
• A sturdy tripod is essential to steady when taking photos with a long exposure, as even the smallest amount of movement can spil your picture. 
• Make sure your tripod is the right weight and size to withstand your camera. 

Find out what equipment professional photographer Chase Teron uses to photograph the Arctic here:

The Ultimate Photography Equipment List for Arctic Photography Expeditions

Upcoming Northern Lights Expedition Micro Cruises in Greenland

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Northern Lights in Greenland: Best Places to See the Aurora Lights

• 6 minute read

• July 11, 2023

 Welcome to the dazzling world of the Northern Lights in Greenland, where nature’s most captivating light show unfolds against the Arctic sky. If you’re in search of an enchanting and awe-inspiring experience, look no further than the Aurora Borealis in Greenland. As the dancing ribbons of vibrant colors paint the darkness, prepare to be mesmerized by this celestial spectacle.

In this article, we will guide you through the best places in Greenland to witness the breathtaking Northern Lights. From the scientific phenomenon behind the Aurora Borealis to the optimal time to visit and tips for maximizing your experience, we have all the information you need to embark on a remarkable journey. Get ready to immerse yourself in the ethereal beauty of the Northern Lights in Greenland: the Arctic’s celestial masterpiece.

Explanation of the Scientific Phenomenon Behind the Aurora Borealis

The Aurora Borealis is a dazzling display of light that occurs in the Earth’s polar regions. This captivating natural phenomenon is caused by charged particles from the sun colliding with atoms and molecules in the Earth’s atmosphere.

When these charged particles, mainly electrons and protons, enter the Earth’s magnetic field and collide with atmospheric particles, they emit a luminous glow, creating the dancing ribbons of light we know as the Northern Lights.

How to Take Tours of the Best Northern Lights in Greenland

To witness the Northern Lights in Greenland, it’s recommended to join guided tours that specialize in Aurora hunting. These tours are led by experienced guides who have extensive knowledge of the local conditions and optimal viewing spots.

They will take you to remote locations away from light pollution, increasing your chances of experiencing a truly awe-inspiring display. Several reputable tour operators offer Northern Lights tours in Greenland, ensuring a memorable and magical adventure.

Why Viewing Northern Lights in Greenland

Greenland offers a unique setting for viewing the Northern Lights. With its pristine landscapes, vast icy wilderness, and minimal light pollution, Greenland provides an ideal environment to witness this celestial phenomenon in all its glory.

The unspoiled natural beauty, combined with the dancing lights across the dark Arctic sky, creates an otherworldly experience that will stay with you forever. Greenland’s remoteness and untouched landscapes make it a haven for avid aurora chasers seeking a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

Best Time to Visit Greenland for the Northern Lights

When it comes to witnessing the mesmerizing Northern Lights in Greenland, some months are considered more optimal than others. While the Northern Lights can be unpredictable and nature has its own timetable, there are certain months that offer higher chances of experiencing this celestial phenomenon. The best months to see the Northern Lights in Greenland are typically from December to February.

During these months, Greenland experiences long nights with extended periods of darkness, which provides the ideal backdrop for the Northern Lights to shine brightly. Additionally, the geomagnetic activity tends to be higher during this period, increasing the likelihood of witnessing vibrant displays of the Aurora Borealis.

It’s important to keep in mind that the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, and their occurrence can vary from year to year. Factors such as solar activity and weather conditions also play a role in the visibility of the lights. Therefore, even during the recommended months, it’s essential to be patient and flexible, as the Northern Lights can appear intermittently.

What Month is Best to See Northern Lights?

While the winter months generally offer favorable conditions for viewing the Northern Lights, some months are considered more optimal than others. The period from December to February is often preferred due to the extended darkness and increased geomagnetic activity.

However, it’s worth mentioning that the Northern Lights can be unpredictable, and nature has its own timetable. It’s always advisable to check with local experts or tour operators for the latest updates on the Northern Lights forecast.

List Best Places to See the Aurora Lights in Greenland

• Kangerlussuaq: Located in western Greenland, Kangerlussuaq is renowned for its clear skies and relatively stable weather conditions, making it an excellent spot for Northern Lights sightings.
• Sisimiut: Situated on the west coast of Greenland, Sisimiut offers breathtaking landscapes and a high chance of witnessing the Northern Lights. Its picturesque surroundings make it a popular destination for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.
• Ilulissat: Known for its stunning ice fjord and towering icebergs, Ilulissat provides a unique backdrop for experiencing the Northern Lights. The dancing lights against the icy landscape create a truly magical ambiance.
• Nuuk: Greenland’s capital, Nuuk, is not only a vibrant city but also a gateway to the wonders of the Arctic. With its proximity to the wilderness, it offers fantastic opportunities to catch the mesmerizing display of the Northern Lights.
• Kulusuk: Located on the eastern coast of Greenland, Kulusuk offers an extraordinary Arctic experience. Its remote location, surrounded by majestic mountains and glaciers, provides an ideal setting for witnessing the Aurora Borealis.
• Tasiilaq: Nestled in the Ammassalik Island of Eastern Greenland, Tasiilaq offers breathtaking views of rugged landscapes and icy fjords. Its remote location and minimal light pollution make it an excellent spot for Northern Lights enthusiasts.

Nearby Accommodation Facilities

 When planning your trip to witness the Northern Lights in Greenland, it’s essential to choose nearby accommodation facilities that provide comfort and convenience during your stay. Here are some options near the best Northern Lights viewing spots in Greenland:

• Hotel Arctic (Ilulissat): Located in Ilulissat, Hotel Arctic offers stunning views of the famous Ilulissat Icefjord and is known for its Arctic-inspired architecture. The hotel provides comfortable rooms, excellent amenities, and easy access to Northern Lights viewing areas.
• The Red House (Sisimiut): Situated in Sisimiut, The Red House is a cozy guesthouse that blends traditional Greenlandic architecture with modern comforts. It offers comfortable rooms, a warm and inviting atmosphere, and is conveniently located near prime Northern Lights viewing locations.
• Hotel Hans Egede (Nuuk): As Greenland’s capital, Nuuk offers various accommodation options, including Hotel Hans Egede. This hotel provides comfortable rooms, excellent facilities, and is centrally located, making it a convenient base for exploring Nuuk and its surrounding areas for Northern Lights sightings.
• Hotel Kulusuk (Kulusuk): In the eastern part of Greenland, Hotel Kulusuk is a cozy hotel offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers. It provides comfortable accommodation, warm hospitality, and easy access to nearby locations for Northern Lights experiences.
• Hotel Angmagssalik (Tasiilaq): Located in Tasiilaq, Hotel Angmagssalik offers comfortable rooms with panoramic views of the mountains and fjords. It provides a tranquil and picturesque setting for witnessing the Northern Lights.

These accommodation facilities offer a range of amenities, warm hospitality, and convenient access to the best Northern Lights viewing spots in Greenland. Whether you prefer a hotel, guesthouse, or lodge, these options will ensure a comfortable and memorable stay during your Northern Lights adventure.

Tips for Maximizing Your Northern Lights Experience in Greenland

• Be patient : The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, and they can be elusive. Prepare to spend several nights chasing the lights, as they may appear intermittently.
• Check the forecast : Stay updated on the Northern Lights forecast and weather conditions. Clear skies and increased geomagnetic activity enhance your chances of witnessing a vibrant display.
• Dress warmly : Greenland’s winter temperatures can be harsh, so it’s crucial to dress in layers and wear appropriate cold-weather gear to stay comfortable during your aurora quest.
• Capture the moment : Bring a tripod and a camera with manual settings to capture the beauty of the Northern Lights. Experiment with long exposures and different compositions to create stunning photographs.
• Embrace the silence : While waiting for the Northern Lights, take a moment to immerse yourself in the tranquility of Greenland’s pristine wilderness. The stillness of the surroundings adds to the magical atmosphere.
• Join guided tours : Opt for guided tours led by experienced Aurora hunters who know the best locations for Northern Lights viewing. They can provide valuable insights and increase your chances of witnessing a vibrant display.

Greenland, with its remote and untouched landscapes, offers an unforgettable opportunity to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights. From the ethereal dance of lights in the Arctic sky to the tranquil beauty of its surroundings, Greenland provides an ideal setting for this extraordinary natural spectacle.

Whether you choose to visit Kangerlussuaq, Sisimiut, Ilulissat, Nuuk, Kulusuk, or Tasiilaq, you’re in for an enchanting experience. Embrace the magic, be patient, and let the Northern Lights of Greenland illuminate your soul.

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Northern Lights in Greenland FAQ’S

What causes the northern lights in greenland.

The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, are caused by charged particles from the sun colliding with atoms and molecules in the Earth’s atmosphere. When these charged particles enter the Earth’s magnetic field and collide with atmospheric particles, they emit a luminous glow, creating the dancing ribbons of light we know as the Northern Lights.

Can I see the Northern Lights in Greenland during the summer months?

The summer months in Greenland, especially from May to August, have extended daylight hours with very little darkness. As the Northern Lights require darkness to be visible, the summer months are not the best time to see them in Greenland. However, if you visit Greenland during the shoulder seasons of September or April, you may still have a chance to catch the Northern Lights during the transition between summer and winter.

Are the Northern Lights visible every night in Greenland?

No , the Northern Lights are not visible every night in Greenland. They are a natural phenomenon influenced by various factors such as solar activity, weather conditions, and geomagnetic activity. Even in prime viewing locations, it’s important to note that the Northern Lights can be unpredictable. It’s best to plan for multiple nights of Aurora hunting and consult local experts or tour operators for the most up-to-date information on Northern Lights sightings.

Can I photograph the Northern Lights in Greenland with a smartphone?

While smartphones have advanced camera technology, capturing high-quality Northern Lights photographs can be challenging without the manual settings and stability of a dedicated camera. To capture the beauty of the Northern Lights, it’s recommended to use a camera with manual settings and a tripod for long-exposure shots. However, if you have a smartphone with manual camera controls and a stable tripod, you may still be able to capture some impressive shots of the Northern Lights in Greenland.

Is it possible to witness the Northern Lights from a cruise ship in Greenland?

Yes , it’s possible to witness the Northern Lights from a cruise ship in Greenland, especially during the winter months when many cruises are specifically designed for Northern Lights viewing. Cruising along the coast of Greenland can offer stunning views of the Arctic landscape and the opportunity to witness the Northern Lights dancing above the icy waters. However, it’s important to choose a cruise that offers dedicated Northern Lights excursions and knowledgeable guides to maximize your chances of experiencing this natural phenomenon.

Are there any cultural or mythological beliefs associated with the Northern Lights in Greenland?

Yes , the Northern Lights hold cultural and mythological significance in Greenlandic Inuit culture. The Inuit people have rich folklore and legends surrounding the Aurora Borealis. According to their beliefs, the Northern Lights are the spirits of their ancestors playing a celestial game in the sky. They believe that whistling or making loud noises during the Northern Lights display may attract the attention of the spirits. The Northern Lights are seen as a powerful and awe-inspiring natural phenomenon that connects the Inuit people to their ancestors and the spiritual world.

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• July 10, 2023

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Seeing the northern lights in Greenland

Watching the northern lights swirl around the sky above your head is one of the most spectacular sights of the natural world – and seeing the northern lights is easy in Greenland.

But when should you go, and where is the best place in Greenland to view the aurora borealis?

The truth is, the northern lights can be seen anywhere above the Arctic Circle in winter when the skies are dark, so northern Norway, Sweden and Finland are all good bets.

So, can you see the northern lights in Greenland?

Yes, you certainly can. Thanks to low levels of light pollution, plus a remote location and an incredibly low population density, Greenland is generally regarded as one of the best places on the planet to get a good view of the amazing aurora borealis.

Why is Greenland so good for seeing the northern lights?

The further north you are and the less light pollution there is, the higher your chances of seeing a really spectacular northern lights show.

More than two thirds of Greenland lies above the Arctic Circle and its northern tip is only 500 miles from the North Pole, so the season for viewing the northern lights is pretty long.

Add to that the fact Greenland is the world’s largest island, with a resident population of fewer than 60,000 people, and you’ll see that it’s very easy to get away from the crowds here!

Some 80 percent of the country is covered by the Greenland ice sheet, with hardly any resident population – so no light pollution.

And even Greenland’s largest settlement Nuuk has a population of less than 20,000, so there’s little light pollution even in the larger settlements.

In the north of Greenland is the Kalaallit Nunaat High Arctic Tundra. And tundra weather conditions are often long, cold dark nights – so perfect for sightings of the northern lights.

When is the best time to see the northern lights in Greenland?

The darker the skies, the easier it is to see the lights, so clearly in mid-winter when it is dark for 24 hours a day above the Arctic Circle you have a very good chance of viewing the lights provided the skies are clear. 

But that doesn’t mean you necessarily want to visit in the darkest depths of winter, when temperatures can be far, far below freezing and there is barely any sunlight for sightseeing during the day.

In the north of Greenland the northern lights are visible from early September to late March or even early April, so it has one of the longest viewing seasons of any country in the world.

But the peak time to view the northern lights in Greenland is from November to mid-March.

Generally speaking, the shoulder seasons (late Oct to early December, and again between late February and early April) are the best times to visit if you want to mix some aurora spotting with daytime sightseeing.

Where to see northern lights in Greenland

Most people fly into Greenland from Copenhagen in Denmark and arrive at Kangerlussuaq on the island’s west coast.

There’s a reason that Greenland’s main international airport was built here and that’s because it’s a relatively sheltered spot, with a calm micro-climate and fewer clouds and storms than other parts of the island.

In fact, it has almost 300 clear nights a year, which makes it the best location for seeing the northern lights in Greenland.

It also makes a great base for exploring the nearby Russell Glacier and the long, deep Kangerlussuaq fjord. At 120 miles long, its name aptly means “large” in Greenlandic.

Another excellent place in Greenland where you can see the northern lights is Ilulissat. Perched on the edge of the spectacular Disko Bay, it has stunning views of the lights dancing above the huge icebergs in the fjord.

One of the northernmost UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the Ilulissat Icefjord is home to a massive collection of icebergs that have calved from the Sermeq Kujalleq glacier.

On the east coast the small towns of Tasiilaq and Kulusuk are both good destinations for spotting the northern lights, though you’ll have to fly in to both of these.

And you can even get views of the northern lights from Greenland’s capital, Nuuk, which is served by regular flights from Reykjavik in Iceland.

Despite the city’s lights, you can often see the aurora borealis in the skies above, and Nuuk is small enough that you can simply walk to the edge of the town away from any streets lamps to get a better view.

Northern lights tours in Greenland

And if you want some help with getting the best view of the northern lights, you may want to book one of Nuuk’s polar night excursions. 

Experienced guides will be able to take you to the best viewing spots and give you the lowdown on the lights.

This two-hour northern lights’ tour from Nuuk also includes a hot chocolate and a warm place to wait for the lights to appear – let’s face it, it’s freezing out there!

Alternatively, you could take this   northern lights’ boat tour , which heads out from Nuuk harbour into the fjord in a warm boat to get great views of the aurora borealis away from any light pollution.

But, best of all why not combine viewing the northern lights with dog-sledding?

This six-day trip includes a session meeting the dogs and learning how to drive a sled as well as a northern lights tour, snow-shoeing and a night in the Igloo Lodge. 

Where to stay in Greenland to see the northern lights

Ilulissat is a good place to base yourself for sightings of the northern lights and it’s also home to the world’s most northerly four-star hotel.

The Hotel Arctic looks over the huge icebergs in the UNESCO-protected Icefjord, and you can often see the northern lights from the bedrooms, through large picture windows.

The hotel even has some igloos (May to October) perched on the edge of the cliff overlooking the fjord that you can sleep in. Made of aluminium, these cosy igloos have windows in the roof so you can lie in bed and look at the stars.

And if you fancy staying in a more authentic igloo, Igloo Lodge has six real igloos carved out of snow and ice, in the traditional Inuit style.

You travel out to the igloos from Ilulissat by snowmobile then spend the night in the cosy snow domes.

Inside, sheepskins, super-insulated sleeping bags and candles keep things warm, and there’s a heated wooden hut nearby where dinner is served.

What kit do I need to see the northern lights in Greenland?

The most important thing you’ll need is warm weather clothing. It’s cold in Greenland, and if you’re outside at night tracking down the northern lights, it will be even colder.

Daytime temperatures in Greenland rarely exceed 10°C in summer, and the average daily temperature usually only goes above 0°C in July and August.

In winter, nighttime temperatures can go as low as -50°C! So, come prepared with thermals, fleeces, water- and windproof jackets, gloves, thick socks, boots and a hat.

Other than warm clothing, a good torch is useful and a camera, of course, for capturing the light display.

What causes the northern lights in Greenland?

The northern lights is a natural phenomenon that occurs high up in the earth’s atmosphere.

It’s caused by solar storms on the surface of the sun sending out electrically charged particles which enter the upper atmosphere at very high speeds. 

And the collision of these particles with the atoms and molecules in the earth’s atmosphere causes swirling lights and patterns in the sky. 

The colours of the northern lights are caused by the gases in the earth’s atmosphere. At altitude nitrogen in the night sky causes the purple colour, while the green colours are caused by oxygen.

How did the East Greenland eskimos interpret the mystery of the northern lights?

So that’s the scientific explanation, but the native Greenlanders, correctly called Inuit, have an alternative story about the northern lights.

According to East Greenlanders, what is the legend connected with the northern lights?

The Inuit from East Greenland believe that the northern lights are the spirits of children who died at birth and are now dancing in heaven.

They think that their souls cause the lights to dance and spin around at night.

Other Inuit, such as those from Northern Greenland, believe that the northern lights are the souls of their dead ancestors dancing in the sky.

They call the lights the aurora aksarnirq , and see them as spirits in the sky who carry lights to guide those who are still living on earth.

They also believe that the spirits are playing games, such as football, with a walrus skull. Indeed, the word aksarnirq translates as “ball-player” in English.

Are restrooms readily available during northern lights tours in Greenland?

That depends on the type of tour. If you’re travelling on a private guided tour in a car or a jeep, then there won’t be a toilet on board. 

However, almost all tour guides in Greenland speak English and if you ask, they will be happy to stop off at a gas station or café with a restroom on route.

Indeed, most tours will be planned with at least one restroom stop included.

If you’re on a larger coach tour, then there’a a good chance that the coach will have a restroom on board.

What are the southern lights?

The southern lights are a similar phenomenon to the northern lights, but they occur in the southern hemisphere. Instead of being called the aurora borealis, they are known as the aurora australis.

See also: Greenland vs Iceland Seeing the northern lights in Scandinavia Seeing the northern lights in Finland Seeing the northern lights in Sweden Seeing the northern lights in Norway

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The Best Places to See the Northern Lights in Greenland

Seeing the Northern Lights anywhere in the world is an unforgettable experience. But seeing the Northern Lights in Greenland is something even more extraordinary. This icy, remote country is like nature’s grand stage, showcasing the northern lights in all their glory. Every corner of Greenland offers a unique and unobstructed view of this natural phenomenon.

In this article, we’ll analyze why Greenland is the perfect destination for observing the Northern Lights. We’ll also provide valuable information on when to visit Greenland to experience the auroras , ensuring a 100% chance to see this breathtaking natural spectacle. And above all, we’ll share some spots that will make your already great Northern Lights experience in Greenland absolutely perfect.

Why is Greenland the perfect place to see the Northern Lights?

We could name several things that make Greenland an exceptional place to visit . But when it comes to seeing the Northern Lights, it’s the ideal destination for three main reasons:

1. Remote and Dark Skies: Greenland has vast uninhabited areas and little light pollution. As a result, it offers clear, dark skies, providing an ideal backdrop for the Northern Lights to shine brightly.

2. Magnetic Pole Proximity: Greenland is located near the magnetic pole, increasing the likelihood of frequent auroral displays. In other words, it is a prime spot for catching the lights in all their vibrant glory.

3. Unique Arctic Landscape: The stunning Arctic landscapes of Greenland, from icy fjords to majestic glaciers, add a breathtaking touch to the Northern Lights experience. Greenland’s nature is creating a once-in-a-lifetime moment in a truly exceptional setting.

To sum up, Greenland is one of the few places in the world where you have increased chances of seeing the northern lights and enjoying clear and vibrant views, all while surrounded by the unique beauty of its natural landscapes.

What is the best time to see the Northern Lights in Greenland?

You have great odds to see the Northern Lights in Greenland at any season. But particularly during winter, when the nights are longer, the chances of seeing the Northern Lights increase. The best time of the day to see the Northern Lights in Greenland is during the late evening and into the night. Here’s what you can anticipate:

Seeing the Northern Lights in Greenland during winter (December to February)

This is the most popular time for Northern Lights hunting due to long nights and clear skies. Winter in Greenland offers a high chance of catching the auroras in the Arctic skies.

Seeing the Northern Lights in Greenland during spring (March to May)

While the nights get shorter, there are still good opportunities to see the Northern Lights in the early spring, especially in March.

Seeing the Northern Lights in Greenland during summer (June to August)

Though it never gets completely dark during summer, the northern lights can still be visible on clear nights in Greenland’s northern regions.

Seeing the Northern Lights in Greenland during autumn (September to November)

As the nights lengthen, you can see the Northern Lights at the beginning of autumn. Your best chances are towards November.

The outcome: The best months to see the Northern Lights in Greenland are from December to March during winter. Therefore, be outside and ready for aurora-watching from around 9:00 PM until the early morning hours.

What are the best places to see the Northern Lights in Greenland?

When it comes to hunting the Aurora Borealis in Greenland, certain locations are more popular than others. Here, we offer a comprehensive list of the best places and top spots to witness the breathtaking Northern Lights in all their magnificence.

KANGERLUSSUAQ

Kangerlussuaq is a small town in western Greenland, situated at the end of a long fjord. It has a relatively small population, with around 500 inhabitants. The town’s geography is characterized by vast open landscapes, surrounded by Arctic tundra and mountains.

If you had the power to design the perfect setting for seeing the Northern Lights, you wouldn’t make it much better than Kangerlussuaq. Specifically, this remote town provides the necessary elements for an unforgettable Northern Lights experience: a quiet and distant location, and beautiful Arctic landscapes.

Best spots to see the Northern Lights in Kangerlussuaq

Old Camp: This small hostel offers rooms in wooden cabins just a two minutes drive from Kangerlussuaq airport. It’s also safe from light pollution and provides breathtaking views of the town and the Arctic sky.

Panoramic Viewpoints: Several elevated viewpoints around Kangerlussuaq offer unobstructed panoramas of the Arctic skies, perfect for aurora hunting.

Arctic Circle Trail: If you’re up for an adventure, hiking along the Arctic Circle Trail allows you to witness the auroras in the middle of Greenland’s untouched wilderness.

Ilulissat is the most popular destination for people traveling to Greenland for good reason. It harmonically combines all the incredible aspects of Greenland. It also provides the chance to see the Northern Lights in a unique setting.

The town’s Arctic landscapes, with its icy fjords and dramatic icebergs, provide a dream-like set to experience the auroras. Ilulissat’s unique blend of natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and magical Northern Lights make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Greenland.

Best spots to see the Northern Lights in Ilulissat

Ilulissat Icefjord: This UNESCO World Heritage site offers an incredible vantage point to see the Northern Lights in Greenland shining above the majestic icebergs and glaciers.

Hotel Icefjord Terrace: Situated along the shores of Ilulissat, guests can step outside and get some views of the auroras right from the hotel’s doorstep.

Old Helipad: Located outside the town, the old Helipad offers an open area with less light interference, allowing for excellent opportunities to catch the Northern Lights.

Qaanaaq, or Thule, is a remote town located in northern Greenland. It is situated on the coast of the Arctic Ocean and is the northernmost inhabited place in the world. Qaanaaq has a relatively small population of around 600 people, primarily consisting of the Inughuit people.

Being the northernmost place in the northernmost country in the world, Qaanaaq offers an unparalleled Northern Lights experience in Greenland. Additionally, its extreme latitude and remote location provide optimal conditions for catching the auroras in all their glory. It is undoubtedly one of the best places on Earth to enjoy this breathtaking natural phenomenon.

Best spots to see the Northern Lights in Qaanaaq

Pituffik Peninsula: This former settlement provides a wide-open area with minimal light pollution, allowing clear views of the auroras dancing across the Arctic sky.

Qaanaaq Cemetery Hill: Positioned on a hill, this old cemetery provides elevated views of the Northern Lights amidst the Arctic landscapes.

Qaanaaq Harbor: The harbor area offers a unique setting to catch the Northern Lights reflecting on the waters of the Arctic Ocean.

Nuuk, the capital city of Greenland, is located on the southwestern coast of the country. It is situated on the shores of the Nuuk Fjord, surrounded by icy mountains and landscapes. With around 18,000 inhabitants, Nuuk is the largest city in Greenland and serves as its political and cultural center.

Despite being the biggest city in Greenland, Nuuk is still a paradise for Northern Lights hunters. Wherever you are in Nuuk, you can take a short walk and find yourself in a spot to see the Northern Lights of Greenland. The city’s relatively low light pollution and the stunning natural beauty of its surroundings create a perfect setting to see the lights in the Arctic sky.

Best spots to see the Northern Lights in Nuuk

Quassussuaq (Lille Malene): This hilltop offers a panoramic view of Nuuk and the surrounding landscapes. It also provides an ideal vantage point for watching the Northern Lights in Greenland.

Qeqertarsuatsiaat (Sweet Little Island): Taking a late-night boat trip to this nearby island is a unique experience. It will also allow you to chase the Northern Lights away from city lights.

Qornok: For a bit of adventure, hike to the top of Qornok Hill. It will grant you sweeping views of Nuuk and one of the best locations to see the Northern Lights in Greenland.

How to get to the best places to see the Northern Lights in Greenland?

For getting to the best places to see the Northern Lights in Greenland, you have two options. Firstly, you can join a tour, as excellent Northern Lights tours are available in every town during winter. These tours offer reasonable prices and easy access to some of the best spots for aurora viewing.

Alternatively, you can explore some of those spots on your own . Some prime locations to see the Northern Lights are easily accessible. However, please be careful and avoid venturing to more remote areas at night, since it can be dangerous with all that ice and darkness.

Find the cheapest flights to Greenland here:

In conclusion, Greenland offers the most beautiful setting in the world for Northern Lights viewing. In this article, we’ve explored some of the best places to see the Northern Lights in Greenland that are relatively easy to access. However, you can discover many more if you are willing to do some exploration on your own. All you have to do is escape the city lights and be cautious. By doing so, you can embrace the tranquility of Greenland’s untouched beauty, allowing the Northern Lights to captivate your senses.

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Best Time To Visit Greenland (Gorgeous Glaciers & Northern Lights!)

Explore the best times to visit Greenland for glaciers & Northern Lights. Tips on weather, cultural events, and avoiding crowds for an amazing trip.

Greenland is a unique nordic island full of striking glaciers and natural wonders. This country can get surprisingly warm in the summer and is great for adventurers looking for a new place to explore! Travel can be quite expensive to Greenland due to its remote location, but that should not scare you away from the amazing experience.

The best time to visit Greenland is April, with low crowds and nice spring weather with temperatures reaching 20℉. A flight from Copenhagen will cost about $800. You will find great opportunities to explore nature and the unique culture of Greenland. September is another good time to visit, with temperatures reaching 43℉ and musical festivals across the country.

This hidden gem is not well known to tourists and it can be hard to determine the best time and place to explore Greenland. Follow along with this article to get a sense of the climate, activities, and costs available each month of the year!

When Not To Visit Greenland

As one might expect, winter is incredibly cold in Greenland. Temperatures never get above freezing and sunlight is scarce.

Because of the climate, there is not much to do in early winter, so  you may not enjoy a visit in November and December.

December 21st is the shortest day of the year and some parts of Greenland do not see any sun at all, while others only get a few hours.

This makes i t perfect for Northern Lights viewings  but not an ideal time for other activities.  You will have more options available in late winter and early spring to enjoy everything this place has to offer

Cheapest Month To Visit Greenland

The cheapest month to visit Greenland is February.  Travel to Greenland overall can be pretty expensive, as very few airlines fly there and access between towns is sparse. But few cultural activities are going on in February so prices and tourism are low.

Flights to Greenland will cost about $600 round trip from Copenhagen, but if you are living anywhere else in the world there are no direct flights. A nice hotel in the capital Nuuk will cost about $150, but you can find much more affordable housing by staying in popular hostels!

Best Month To Visit Greenland

If you are looking to visit Greenland with the best combination of prices, weather, and tourism level it is best to travel there during the shoulder seasons.  September is the best month to visit in fall ,  with warm  temperatures reaching 43℉ and fall festivities everywhere.

Visiting Greenland in spring will let you experience the beautiful white snow without the constant frigid temperatures.  April is the best month to visit in spring , as you will find cultural events such as dogsled races and pristine glaciers to explore.

When is the Best Time To Visit Greenland: Monthly Breakdown

January: best time to see the northern lights.

January is the coldest month of the year in Greenland, with peak temperatures reaching just -5℃ or 23℉ .  You will see about 1.5 inches of snowfall throughout the month and not much sunlight. With only 7 hours of sunlight on average, it is a great time to see the northern lights!

This is a pretty cheap time to visit Greenland seeing as it is quite dark and cold.  A flight from Copenhagen to Nuuk will be about  $700 roundtrip.

• Experince Mitaartut aka Greenlandic Halloween
• Watch the Northern Lights

Related Read:   The Best Time to Visit Iceland

February: Cheapest Month To Visit

It is still very frigid in Greenland in February, with the temperature reaching -5℃ or 23℉  at its highest.  There are about 1.7 inches of snow that fall this month. You will find very few crowds and the towns will be peaceful to explore as the sunlight hours increase.

This is the cheapest month to visit Greenland, as a flight from Copenhagen to Nuuk will be about $600 roundtrip .  With a good jacket, you can explore the winter scape of Greenland by exploring the beautiful glaciers and wildlife this time of year!

• Visit the Greenland Ice sheet and Russell Glacier to watch the northern lights
• Go wildlife spotting in Kangerlussuaq

March: Enjoy Spring Cultural Festivals

The temperatures stay very similar to the rest of the year so far, with temperatures peaking at -5℃ or 23℉ .  Spring snow brings about 1.9 inches of snowfall over the month. It is a great time to explore the countryside while still catching the northern lights in all their glory.

Prices begin to increase for Greenland travel as the increased sunlight makes snow adventuring perfect!  A flight from Copenhagen to Nuuk will be about  $700 roundtrip .  You will find several festivals in the capital of Nuuk that are worth visiting this time of year!

• Nuuk Multi Kulti
• Experience the ice/snow sculptures of the Nuuk Snow Festival

April: Arctic Palerfik Dogsled Race

Temperatures begin to increase in Greenland, reaching -1℃ or 20℉  at their peak . With only 1.7 inches of snow falling this month, it is a perfect time to explore the country with mild weather and fewer crowds.

Although April is not the cheapest time to visit Greenland, a flight from Copenhagen to Nuuk will be about $800 roundtrip. However, with the perfect weather and pristine winter landscape, it is an ideal time to visit.

• Watch the Arctic Palerfik dogsled race in Illulissat
• Taste unique Greenlandic beer at Brewery Immiaq

May: Best Time For Outdoor Sporting

Summer is finally upon Greenland with high temperatures above freezing at 3℃ or 30℉ on average .  There is not much precipitation this month, with the country only seeing 1.2 inches of rain and snow on average.

A flight from Copenhagen to Nuuk will be about $900 roundtrip as prices continue to increase as summer approaches. It is the perfect time to catch sight of whales as they venture into cooler waters, and outdoor sporting is at its peak with the warm weather and remaining snow.

• Maaji Nuan (free sporting activities)
• Go whale watching

Related Read:   Best Time to Visit Denmark

June: High Season Begins

The popular season begins in Greenland in June as average temperatures reach 8℃ or 44℉  and the days are long.  There is a good about of rain and snow this month with an average of 2.3 inches of rain falling during the month.

It does begin to get much more expensive to visit in the summer, as a flight from Copenhagen to Nuuk will be about $1,100 roundtrip. You will find 24 hours of sunlight in most parts of the country over the month of the summer solstice, which makes for the perfect time to explore the landscape!

• Greenlands National Day and the longest day of the year on June 21st
• Midnight Sun Marathon in Aasiaat

July: Most Expensive Month To Visit

The weather is perfect in Greenland during July, with temperature peaks reaching 10℃ or 50℉ on average !  You might run into some cloudy weather, as the island country sees roughly 3.2 inches of rain throughout the month.

July is the most expensive month to visit Greenland, with a single flight from Copenhagen to Nuuk will be about $1,300 roundtrip .  You will find various cultural festivals in July and it is a great time to explore the incredible fjords surrounding the major coastal towns.

• Visit the Aasiaat Kulturfestival
• Kayak around a fjord

August: Best Time To Enjoy Arctic Summer

August is the last month of summer in Greenland, as temperatures average to highs of 10℃ or 50℉ .  The most precipitation of the year falls in August, with an average of 3.6 inches of rain measured throughout the month.

Travel to Greenland is still expensive at the end of the summer season. A flight from Copenhagen to Nuuk will be about $1,200 roundtrip. You will be able to find plenty of festivals to enjoy across the country in major cities.

• Colourful Nuuk Marathon
• Disko Arts Festival in Illulissat

September: Nuuk Food Festival

Temperatures begin to cool down as the Northern Hemisphere tilts away from the sun.  Average temperature highs in the country reach  6℃ or 43℉ .  The country sees roughly 3.4 inches of rain throughout the month.

It is still a bit expensive to visit the country, but much more affordable than the summer season. A flight from Copenhagen to Nuuk will be about $900 roundtrip. Between the weather and abundant fall festivals, this is one of the best months to visit Greenland!

• Qooqqut Festival
• Nuuk Food Festival

October: Nordic Cultural Festivals

It is officially cold once again in Greenland in October, as the highest temperatures reach just 1℃ or 34℉ .  On average the country sees about 2.6 inches of snow and the glaciers begin to grow once again.

Prices bottom out for the rest of the year as the tourist season is officially over. A flight from Copenhagen to Nuuk will be only $700 roundtrip. There are several special festivals celebrating nordic culture to enjoy before the sun begins to disappear for the rest of the year!

• Akisuanerit Music Festival
• Nuuk Nordisk Festival

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November: Experience Northern Lights On A Glacier

The weather becomes quite frigid in Greenland this month, with peak temperature only reaching -2℃ or 28℉ .  There are only about 2.8 inches of snowfall during November. This is a pretty moderate time to visit the country!

Prices are cheap in November as there are not many events in action this time of year.  A flight from Copenhagen to Nuuk will be about  $700 roundtrip .  It is a great time to explore traditional Inuit culture to learn how they thrived in the fascinating landscape!

• Visit the Eqi Glacier in Illulissat
• Explore Inuit culture

December: Christmas In The Arctic

It is cold and dark in December, with high temperatures reaching -4℃ or 25℉ .  The winter solstice brings total darkness in parts of the country, which is great for viewing the Northern Lights! It is also a pretty dry month, with Greenland only seeing about 1.2 inches of snow throughout the month.

There are not many activities to partake in this time of year, so your visit will likely be calm, festive, and decorated with nature’s colorful northern lights!

Prices increase slightly for the holiday season in December, with a flight from Copenhagen to Nuuk costing about $800 roundtrip.

• Take an ocean cruise
• Take part in unique Greenlandic Christmas traditions

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When Is The Best Time To Avoid Crowds

October is the best time to visit Greenland to avoid crowds . The temperatures begin to cool as winter sets in, so tourists enjoying the summer sun will have gone already. And since there is not much snow or glaciers to see you will also avoid the winter adventurer crowds.

Greenland is not the most popular travel destination due to the cold weather and remote locations, you will not run into too many crowds year-round .  There will be larger groups in the summer and springtime, but not to the point of having to push your way through the streets!

Can You See The Northern Lights In Greenland?

Greenland is a great pla ce to see the Northern Lights  as in some places they can be seen year round!  Visiting the northern parts in winter will give you days of total darkness and around-the-clock northern lights to view.

In the summertime, you can still see the lights in the evenings, but they will not be as pronounced as in winter.

If you happen to visit during the times of Midnight Sun, you may not see them at all. But you can easily find locations to view the lights throughout most of the year.

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The Best Times to Visit Greenland

When to go, at a glance.

Best Time to See Northern Lights (September to April)

Midnight sun (april-august) and polar night (november-january), wildlife viewing.

• Muskoxen (all year): Western Greenland
• Arctic Fox (all year): All around Greenland
• Walrus (all year):  Western Greenland and Eastern Greenland
• Humpback whales (late August-September): Southern Greenland
• Orcas (August-September): Western Greenland 
• Belugas (August-September): Western Greenland
• Narwhals (July-September): Southern Greenland and Western Greenland, around Disko Island)
• Bowhead Whale (August-September): Northern Greenland and Western Greenland
• Polar Bears (all year, but rare): Northern Greenland
• Minke Whale (May-October): Southern Greenland, and Western Greenland
• Fin Whale (August-September): Southern Greenland and Western Greenland

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• Greenland adventure options (6)
• Greenland land & sea exploration (5)
• Greenland archaeological site visits (4)
• Greenland photography seminars (4)
• Greenland northern lights (4)
• Greenland horseback riding (3)

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The Northern Light in Ilulissat in Greenland

Mads Pihl /Visit Greenland

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The Northern Lights in Greenland

If you are visiting Greenland during the Northern Light season, you definitely have to experience this natural phenomenon.

You can be lucky to discover the Northern Lights in Greenland from early autumn to spring, where the night sky regularly will be illuminated by the northern lights' green glow. This natural phenomenon always causes excitement and wonder among those who have never seen it.

What are the Northern Lights

The Northern Lights, also called aurora borealis, are a natural phenomenon that occurs when solar activity releases a cloud of gas drawn into the earth’s magnetic fields, creating charged particles that collide with oxygen and nitrogen atoms in the upper atmosphere. These cosmic collisions result in growing emissions of swirling, colourful lights visible to the human eye during clear winter nights at far northern latitudes.

When to see the Northern Light

The best period for the northern lights is from September to April when the dark and beautiful polar nights can be experienced.

Where to experience The Northern Light

One can experience the Northern Lights in Greenland , but the further north you travel, the better. Kangerlussuaq and Disko Bay are great places to experience the Northern Lights. Kangerlussuaq's Arctic continental climate is one of the places in Greenland with the most stable weather , and often clear sky, which is a prerequisite for seeing the Northern Lights.

See more about the Northern Lights in the Nordics

Getting there

Find routes to this destination.

Coordinates

• Lattitude: 71.706936
• Longitude: -42.604303

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Northern Lights in Greenland

Experience the best Northern Lights in the world! Go on a Northern Lights tour in Greenland and see the amazing lightshow up close.

Welcome to what may be the best Northern Lights in the world

We have no doubts in Greenland Travel: If you want to watch the Northern Lights, Greenland is one of the best places – only a 4½ hours non-stop flight away from Copenhagen, Denmark.

It is a challenge to explain northern lights to people, who have never seen them. They are not only about the physical experience of standing speechlessly and viewing them up in the sky, but also about a feeling of being overwhelmed by the elusive, extraordinarily beautiful sight.

The light you watch here and now will never come back. It is clearly one of the greatest and prettiest appearances of the polar night.

As they say so poetically at greenland.com:

”In a way, the Northern Lights are part of Greenland’s physical visual identity. With their arctic touch they grab down from space and fill the polar night with myths, magic and clear winter experiences.” 

See the northern lights in the video from Visit Greenland:

The perfect time of year for Northern Lights

The Northern Lights appear all year round, but they are only visible on a dark sky. In Greenland you can best watch them from the end of September to March or April, depending on where in Greenland you are.

In Kangerlussuaq, Sisimiut and Ilulissat, there are guided northern lights tours during the winter. We would almost dare to promise you the sight of northern lights on a winter trip to Greenland.

In recent years, northern lights trips to Greenland have become very popular. You can get on a non-stop flight from Copenhagen, Denmark, to Kangerlussuaq, where the Northern Lights often are there to see.

Arsarnerit – the ones who play with a ball

The Greenlandic expression for Northern Lights is ”Arsarnerit” and means ”the ones who play with a ball”. According to the old Inuit myths, the Northern Lights appear on the sky, when the dead’s souls play ball with a walrus’ cranium. This explanation wouldn’t quite stand a chance today as superstition is getting overruled many places.

The scientific explanation of the Northern Lights is that the sun’s electrically charged particles meet molecules and atoms in the Earth’s atmosphere at a height of about 60 miles. This encounter results in an incredible phenomenon with “curtains” in countless colors flapping across the sky. Yellow, green, red, white – depending on where you are, the curtains will be of different colors. No matter what color, the sight is glamorous.

Most people, as mentioned, do no longer believe in the cranium story. That doesn’t keep people in Greenland from whistling up towards the sky, trying to make the Northern Lights show more vividly. This is another myth going around. The strange thing is that it often works. But watch out for the Northern Lights not to reach out and get you, if you try. Anyways, if you dare, go ahead and try.

In certain other cultures people believe, that children conceived under the Northern Lights will become intelligent. That is why a trip to the Northern Lights is something especially wonderful for visitors from these cultures.

Play with the northern lights

In connection with your trip to Greenland, there are several excursions, on which you can get outside and experience the Northern Lights. The ones keen on data will enjoy such a guided tour, because the guide will tell you many exciting stories. On top of that, the trip is usually spiced up with a hot drink.

There is another way to keep warm underneath the Northern Lights. Play! Playing underneath the Northern Lights is just so much fun! Many watch the light with awe. There is good reason to. It is an unusually beautiful natural phenomenon. Anyway, try to imitate the Northern Lights’ play on the stage of the sky. Lie down on your back and form an angel in the snow. Or take a ride in the snow on your back, a sled or just a plastic bag.

Obviously, not everyone likes it, but something quite so fantastic happens in the moment you let go and play together with nature. And this definitely is playing with nature, not in it. Try it – no matter if you are 5, 30 or 70 years old!

How to photograph the Northern Lights?

The Northern Lights can be difficult to photograph, but at the same time it delivers the opportunity for some of the most breathtaking nature photographes. It takes a good deal of patience and the correct equipment.

Read more about how to take the best Northern Lights pictures.

What is Northern Light?

The Northern Lights are electrically charged particles from the sun that hit our atmosphere. They create a phenomenon of light with changing colors that reveals how far above the surface of the planets those particles meet the atmosphere.

Aurora Borealis

It was the at that time not quite as beloved scientist Galileo Galilei, who in 1619 invented the expression ”Aurora Borealis”. It means something like “The northern dawn”. There is actually an equivalent in the southern hemisphere, called “Aurora Australis” or ”Southern Lights”. They strangely enough move simultaneously. The common term for northern light and southern light is polar lights (Aurora Polaris). Winds from the sun also create polar lights on other planets with a magnetic field, such as Jupiter or Saturn.

The belt of light

Even for Greenlanders it often comes as a surprise, that the Northern Lights can’t be seen in the entire country. In the most densely populated areas in Greenland, Northern Lights are visible. That is why people take for granted, that it can be seen everywhere on the Northern part of the northern hemisphere. But that is actually not true. The longer south you go, the weaker it gets. Finally it totally disappears.

Most Greenland-travelers arrive in Kangerlussuaq, where the Northern Lights really get their entry on the northern belt of light. It can only be seen on dark and clear nights. We recommend that you move away from artificial light in order to enjoy the entire experience, performed by the flapping curtains.

Northern Lights over Ilulissat – Aningaaq Rosing Carlsen – Visit Greenland

Great places to see the northern lights

The Northern Lights can be viewed at a lot of places in Greenland. The great light show is best watched on a dark and clear night sky between September and the beginning of April. Depending on where in Greenland you are, colors will be different and beautiful no matter what.

Kangerlussuaq

One place gets mentioned over and over again, when we talk about Greenland’s best and most accessible Northern Lights destination: The airport settlement Kangerlussuaq with its unique inland location, leeward to mountains and ice with more than 300 clear nights per year, is a delicacy for lovers of the Northern Lights.

There are different opinions about the best spots to watch the Northern Lights. There still is no scientific evidence on where it is best to view them. But in fact, there has been a research station in Kangerlussuaq for decades, with focus on research on exactly that: the ionosphere and the Northern Lights.

Moreover, Kangerlussuaq is easy to get to. Almost all flights from Denmark, and hence Europe, arrive here. It only takes a 4½ hours direct flight and you are right in the middle of a Northern Lights paradise.

Our best sold trips to Greenland are 5-day journeys to Kangerlussuaq during the winter. On these trips, our travelers get to experience the Northern Lights, the Greenland Ice Sheet and dog sledding.

In Kangerlussuaq as well as in Sisimiut you can go on a Northern Lights excursion, where you drive out to the nature, away from artificial lights from houses and street lanterns. Obviously, it is not necessary to leave the the town to watch Northern Lights, but conditions away from artificial street lights make them easier and more beautiful to watch.

Sisimiut is located right north of the polar circle. You can get there by plane from Kangerlussuaq. The flight only takes about 30 minutes. During the winter, many of our travelers combine visiting Kangerlussuaq and Sisimiut on the same trip.

Sisimiut with its more than 5,500 inhabitants is one of the larger towns in Greenland. Here you will find the modern Greenland side by side with the original culture of the Inuit. Sisimiut is very attractive for active travelers. There are many possibilities for winter activities such as dog sledding, snow mobiles and cross-country skiing.

Read more about expereinces in Greenland here. 

In Ilulissat in the Disco Bay there are excellent opportunities for seeing the Northern Lights as well. Ilulissat means icebergs and this name refers to the town’s location as a neighbor to the Ilulissat Icefjord. In that way, you can get to see the Northern Lights dancing above the impressive icebergs.

A number of our very popular trips combine Kangerlussuaq and Ilulissat. On such a trip you can experience the Ice Cap, the Icefjord as well as the Northern Lights at once.

Nuuk is Greenland’s capitol, located south of the polar circle. In Nuuk, the Northern Lights often are very significant, even though Nuuk is Greenland’s most lighted town with its many street lamps. They brighten up the dark, arctic night. But in spite of them, there are many places, where you easily can enjoy the full view of the Northern Lights.

Northern lights Weather forecast

On this American website, you can see where the Northern Lights currently are expected to be seen . The page gets updated every half hour.

Do you want to experience the Northern Lights in Greenland?

It is very easy to get closer to a Greenland trip in order to watch the Northern Lights. You “just” have to decide, when you want to go, pack your suitcase and get on a plane. Obviously, you also should book a trip and pull out your credit card. But this is an easy exercise for most people.

A 5-days stay in Kangerlussuaq is one of our most popular trips to Greenland.

Find more great trips to Greenland here.

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How to Catch the Northern Lights from GREENLAND

If you’re on the hunt for an awe-inspiring experience, then seeing Northern Lights from Greenland should be on your bucket list. With its otherworldly icy landscapes and eco-centric travel options, this is one trip that will stay with you for life.

Greenland is an excellent destination to view the northern lights. It is ideally located in the Arctic Circle, which increases the opportunities to capture a glimpse of the aurora borealis. Greenland is also known for having extremely low light pollution and clear weather conditions which help to improve the aurora viewing experience. The long, dark nights and unique natural surroundings, make Greenland the perfect Arctic wilderness for awe-inspiring memories.

In this article, we explain the ins and outs of planning a vacation to see Northern Lights from Greenland, and other considerations when mapping out a trip to this remote corner of Earth.

How to See Northern Lights from Greenland

Choosing to hunt for the elusive aurora borealis in Greenland is an excellent choice. However, there are a number of different factors which will ultimately affect the visibility of the northern lights. These factors include things like solar activity, light pollution, and time of year.

Important Considerations for Viewing Aurora Borealis Greenland

Solar and geomagnetic activity.

Solar activity plays a very crucial role in ensuring that the auroras are visible. The Earth has a geomagnetic field that protects it from solar radiation, and disturbances in this field from solar activity tend to result in more vibrant aurora displays. Therefore, the more intense the solar activity, the greater potential there is for fantastic light displays. If you’re interested in learning more on this, we explain aurora borealis science in this article .

There are two ways you can plan your Northern Lights Greenland vacation around solar activity and geomagnetic activity, depending on what part of your trip planning and journey you are on. Solar activity moves in 11 year cycles, so if you are in the initial planning stages, you can coincide your trip with the part of the solar cycle in which the greatest solar activity is predicted as this will give you more likelihood of intense aurora displays overall.

Once you are already in Greenland, you can monitor the levels of geomagnetic activity by following the KP index on an app or website, which will help you determine which nights and even time of night to go aurora hunting. For more information, check out our articles on planning a trip around the solar cycles , the best aurora forecast apps and how to read an aurora forecast .

Weather Conditions

Weather conditions play a critical role in ensuring that you can actually view the northern lights from Greenland when they appear. It’s important to make sure that the skies are clear as any form of cloud coverage can easily obstruct your view. Take the time to monitor weather forecasts in the area you plan on staying at and make sure to choose specific nights to stay up late that offer the greatest chances of viewing the elusive lights. The best way to plan for weather is to make sure you spend at least 3-4 nights in your destination, and avoid times of year renowned for dense snow cloud or rain cloud cover.

Darkness and Length of Night

The northern lights exist regardless of the time of day or the time of year. Because of their faint glow, it is impossible to see them during the summer months when the days are longer. Instead, the best time of year to view the auroras is during the winter when the nights last forever, and the skies are truly at their darkest. Check out the calendar further down this article for more information.

Light Pollution

Any form of light whether artificial or natural, can diminish the ability to view the elusive lights. This is why you should not try to hunt for the auroras inside a city. Instead, you want to travel at least an hour outside the city limits to ensure that there is no light pollution coming from the street lights. You will want to be in as remote of a location as possible, to ensure that there is minimal light pollution to obstruct your view.

The best way to plan for this is to base yourself in a remote town or village, rather than a developed city. As well as light pollution from towns and cities, however, you will also need to consider light pollution from the moon. Check the moon cycles, and try to plan your trip for a dark/new moon. Like star gazing, a full moon can cast quite a bit of light into the sky, which can impede the light of the stars; the same principle applies when viewing the northern lights.

Best Time to See the Northern Lights from Greenland

The best time to see Northern Lights from Greenland is September to March.

Calendar for Northern Lights Greenland

September marks the beginning of the northern lights viewing season in Greenland. It is the time of year when the nights start to grow longer, and the days become shorter. As the weather begins to get colder, the chances of capturing a glimpse of the elusive lights increase substantially.

October and November

As September fades into October and November, the nights continue to get longer. In Greenland, the weather conditions throughout October and November are extremely unpredictable. As a result, there is a greater chance of having cloud coverage which can obstruct your view of the northern lights.

December to February

By December, the weather becomes more stable, which improves the odds of capturing a glimpse of the elusive lights. The nights are at their longest, which provides visitors to the country with the greatest opportunities to view the auroras. Keep in mind that the temperature is a lot colder, and at times, can be downright frigid.

March represents the end of the northern lights season in Greenland. It is the time of year when the days begin to get longer, and the nights get shorter. As the temperatures begin to warm up hunting for the elusive lights becomes a more enjoyable experience, but the odds of capturing a glimpse of them decrease with each passing day.

April to August

Avoid travelling to Greenland during the warmer months, April to August, if your intention is to catch the aurora. Located in the Arctic Circle, Greenland like other northern countries experiences the Midnight Sun and extremely long daylight hours. Long and dark nights are essential for viewing the northern lights (like star gazing) so the skies are simply not dark enough to see them during this time of year. If you must travel, choose early April or late August, otherwise your chances are next to nil.

Where to See Northern Lights from Greenland

There are many excellent locations in Greenland for viewing the elusive lights. As a general rule of thumb for any northern lights viewing, you want to head into the Arctic Circle, above 66.5°N latitude.

Best Places for Viewing Aurora Borealis Greenland

You will find that Ilulissat, which is located along the western coast of the country, is an amazing choice for viewing the elusive lights. It is a UNESCO world heritage site that is well known for its ice fjord. It is a magical destination where you can gaze across the water and view the auroras as they shimmer above icebergs floating in the Arctic. The region is also known for having clear skies and extremely low light pollution. There are a wide variety of accommodations available in the town and a number of different excellent tours and excursions that make viewing the northern lights more enjoyable.

Kangerlussuaq

When it comes to the perfect location, nothing beats Kangerlussuaq. The town is located along the edges of the ice sheet and provides visitors with vast open areas that extend to the horizon. The climate year-round is generally dry, which provides excellent viewing conditions. Thanks to its international airport, it is easy to get to Kangerlussuaq in order to view the auroras.

You will find the town of Tasiilaq in eastern Greenland. Tasiilaq is known for offering some of the most stunning views that the country has to offer. The area is surrounded by towering mountains with ice fjords cutting through the countryside in every direction. It provides a truly unforgettable experience for any aurora hunter. Located along the boundary of the Arctic Circle, it is an excellent destination for viewing the elusive lights.

If you’re looking for the perfect destination with snowcapped mountains and modern amenities, then look no further than Nuuk. As the capital city of Greenland, it has the best of both worlds – excellent urban amenities and traditional Greenlandic culture. Unlike other locations throughout the country, Nuuk does have a high level of light pollution, and as a result, it is generally used as a base for Aurora hunting tours.

Planning Tips for Northern Lights Trips in Greenland

If you’re planning on visiting Greenland to view the northern lights, there are a number of factors that you need to take into consideration. Greenland is a remote destination, one of the most remote on Earth, and as such you need to carefully plan your transport and be prepared for harsh climactic conditions.

Getting to Greenland

First and foremost, you need to determine how you’re going to get to Greenland in the cold months (September to March). Of the transport options available, the easiest and most accessible is to catch a flight. While cruises and ferries are available, they are generally operational during the warmer months (April to August), which is the time for avoid for aurora chasing.

One of the easiest ways to get to Greenland is to simply fly into any one of its numerous international airports. Flights into Greenland generally depart from Copenhagen (Denmark) or Reykjavik (Iceland), so expect a layover in these cities, or better yet plan them into your trip. Iceland is also excellent for northern lights viewing, after all. You have your choice of flying into Nuuk or Kangerlussuaq airports. At the time of writing, the major airlines offering access into Greenland are Air Greenland and Icelandair .

Cruise Ships

It’s also possible to visit the country by cruise ship. Keep in mind that cruise ships generally only visit Greenland during the summer months, so if you are planning to view the northern lights your cruising options may be very limited. Nevertheless, a number of cruise lines from Copenhagen, Reykjavík, and other locations in North America as well as Europe make their way to Greenland every single year.

In the event that you choose a location that does not have its own international airport, you can still make use of the Arctic Umiaq ferry service. This service operates along the western coast of the country and connects to many popular destinations. However, just like cruise ships, the ferry may not be available year-round. You can check the schedule and find out more on the Arctic Umiaq website .

Other Considerations

Choose your clothing wisely.

When visiting Greenland to see the aurora, it’s important to make sure that you dress accordingly. As one of the most distant corners of our planet, the climate and weather is unsurpassed. Not only that, but if you are chasing the northern lights, you are also visiting during the coldest time of the year, on one of the coldest countries on Earth. It would be crazy not to carefully plan out what you will wear.

If you have ever lived in a northern location, then you know the importance of layering. Preparing yourself for the frigid temperatures of the Arctic requires starting with a base layer of moisture-wicking materials. This is followed by a middle layer which provides most of the warmth. The outer layer must be waterproof in order to protect you from the elements.

Insulated Jacket

A good insulated jacket can ensure that you are able to spend more time outside and increase the opportunity of capturing a glimpse of those Greenland northern lights. You want a jacket that is specifically designed for cold weather that uses either synthetic insulation or down. It should also have an adjustable hood and must be both water-resistant and windproof. Keep in mind that while looking for the aurora you will spend hours in the dark, bitter cold so a very good quality jacket is essential.

Thermal Underwear

Thermal underwear plays a critical role in keeping you warm when you are in the Arctic. Not only is it important for trapping your body heat and keeping you warm, but it should be made of a synthetic blend that helps to wick away any sweat that forms on your skin.

Just like your jacket, you will need a pair of insulated pants that are both waterproof and windproof. The pants need to protect you from the cold as well as slushy snow. Make sure that they have reinforced knees, ventilation zippers, and an adjustable waistband. Your pants must be waterproof, considering there is a high chance you will want to sit down on the snow at some point while viewing northern lights in Greenland.

Wool or Insulated Hat

You will also need to keep your head warm at all times. Your head is the number one location where heat escapes from the body, so keeping it warm at all times is critical. Make sure that it is insulated and covers your ears entirely.

Gloves or Mittens

In those frigid temperatures, your fingers can become frozen in no time at all. If you have ever played in the snow, then you would know how quickly your fingers get stiff and painful. Choose a pair of gloves or mittens that are both windproof and waterproof, and that include some form of liner that will wick away any moisture from your hands.

Scarf or Neck Gaiter

Scarves play an important role in ensuring your face and neck stay warm throughout the frigid Greenlandic winters. When selecting a scarf or gaiter, make sure to choose something that is moisture-wicking and breathable.

Warm Socks and Waterproof Boots

It’s important to make sure that your feet stay both dry and warm in the snow. Although the temperatures in Greenland are frigid during wintertime, the snow that you walk through will be slushy. This slush can quickly soak into non-waterproof boots and will result in frostbite. Make sure you choose a pair of waterproof, insulated boots and high-quality synthetic socks.

Sunglasses and Sunscreen

It may not be warm during a Greenlandic winter, but that does not prevent the sun’s rays from causing burns and making it difficult to see. In fact, due to the reflection of sunlight off of the snow and ice, the amount of exposure to the sun’s harmful rays increases dramatically make sure to bring a good pair of polarized sunglasses and plenty of sunscreen.

Practice Responsible Tourism

It’s important to remember that Greenland is a remote destination, and it’s crucial to practice responsible tourism when visiting the country. While it is an exciting adventure for you to be chasing northern lights from Greenland, be aware that anywhere you go and stay you are stepping on someone’s home territory. Keep noise including music and voices down at night in quiet areas, and generally be a good neighbor by showing respect for local residents.

Respect the Local Culture and Customs

Take the time to learn about the local traditions, culture, and customs before you ever arrive. This will ensure that you are able to respect the local etiquette and dress accordingly. The way you may act where you are from can be different from the destination you are visiting, and to ensure that there are no cultural misunderstandings, be mindful of how you behave.

Support the Local Economy

Instead of spending time and money with international organizations operating within the country, support the local economy. This means that when choosing accommodations, tour operators, or restaurants, you select businesses that are owned locally. Buy locally-made products and souvenirs to support Greenland’s artisans and businesses.

Minimize Environmental Impact

Always be mindful of how you will impact the environment around you. Minimize your use of single-use plastics and make sure to always dispose of things properly in the trash. When you leave your hotel room, turn off the lights and any electronics that you are not using. When available, also try to use eco-friendly transportation.

Preserve Natural Resources

Respect your natural surroundings. The vast majority of Greenland is natural, untamed wilderness. As a result, you will need to make sure that you respect the wildlife and the ecosystems. Always follow designated paths and clean up after yourself as you go. Despite the temptation to do so, you should refrain from any attempt to feed the wildlife.

Support Conservation Efforts

As you spend your days visiting Greenland, take the time to also support the local conservation efforts. You may even want to volunteer and help out in a local community-based project when you are in town. This will help to improve the sustainability and preservation of Greenland for generations to come.

Engage in Meaningful Interactions

Make sure that you are culturally sensitive to the local communities. Learn about their way of life and the various traditions throughout Greenland. If there are local festivals, join in on the fun and celebrate with the locals, building meaningful interactions and lasting memories.

Be Mindful of Water and Energy Use

Remember, resources are not endless. Greenland has very limited resources when compared to other locations around the world. Be mindful of this and make sure to conserve things like water and energy. When possible reuse your towels and turn off lights when not needed. When resources are limited, make sure to use them responsibly.

Travel in Small Groups

When you go on a northern lights tour, choose a smaller group. Not only does a smaller tour group improve your viewing experience, but also minimizes the impact on local infrastructure and communities, and allows you to get the most authentic experiences imaginable.

Final Thoughts on Seeing Northern Lights from Greenland

This brings us to the end of this guide on catching the Northern Lights from Greenland. The aurora is a special phenomenon, and Greenland presents one of the finest and most advantageous locations in the whole world for sighting them. With its pristine natural landscapes and remoteness from the rest of the world, it is a trip to be remembered forever.

Of course, in order to catch the aurora borealis Greenland, some careful planning is required. The most important is choosing the right time of year. Here is a quick summary of the main points from this article:

Best Time of Year for Aurora Borealis: September to March (especially December to February).

Best Places for Aurora Borealis: Ilulissat and Kangerlussuaq (both are in the Arctic Circle).

Avoid the summer months, April to August, as there is too much daylight hours to view the aurora borealis. For the best viewing experience, darkness is essential. Therefore, seeking a place to stay that is remote and away from sources of light pollution such as cities is an excellent idea.

Lastly, if your travel dates are flexible, plan your holiday for a year with greater solar activity as discussed in this article .

Happy aurora chasing!

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First-timer’s guide to Greenland

Oct 10, 2023 • 6 min read

First time visiting Greenland? You're going to need a boat-load of tips to get your started © Aningaaq R Carlsen / Visit Greenland

Greenland , the world’s largest island, is a country of wild extremes: uninhabitable wilderness at its core, and delightfully warm and charming people living in harmony with it. Climbers come to scale its spectacular sheer rock faces, scientists come to see what the melting ice can tell us of the planet’s future and many visitors come away with a whole new perspective on life.

There’s no question that the must-see attraction for everyone who visits Greenland is ‘big nature,’ from the black peaks that undulate on the horizon, to the great gray-blue ice sheet in the center of the island and the icebergs scattered in the sea around it. Muskox , arctic fox and polar bears roam around, and the northern lights dance in the sky above.

Inhabited since 2,500 BCE, with Viking colonies in the south from the 10th century, Greenland has developed a unique culture and set of beliefs based on its people’s strong relationship with the mountains, ice and sea that surrounds them. It’s impossible not to come away feeling awestruck by what nature can create.

When should I go to Greenland?

Greenland is a huge island with vast seasonal and geographical variations, and its weather can be unstable and unpredictable all year round. Be sure to take out travel insurance in the event of flight cancellations, and keep plans as loose as possible as schedules can change suddenly.

For snow, dog sledding and the northern lights, the best time to visit is from late September to May.

If you are keen to do adventure sports like hiking, climbing or kayaking, the Greenlandic summer is more suitable. This period, from May to September, promises more hours of daylight.

Where should I go in Greenland ?

Getting around Greenland is complicated (see below). The best advice is to choose one region to explore, or two at most, and spend a week there. This allows you to see the key natural sights and animals without feeling rushed, meet local people (who can be reticent), and have the flexibility to adapt if plans change due to bad weather.

As an example, you could choose to stay in the Ilulissat ice fjord region, where there are options for hiking, whale watching, exploring Disko Bay and perhaps the ice cap over the course of a week. If you want to follow the Arctic Circle Trail , again, that’s a one-to-two-week trip. Factor in that you’ll likely need to fly via Denmark or Iceland, potentially adding a night to the trip in either direction. And as mentioned, there may be unexpected events due to the weather.

Is it easy to get in and around Greenland?

In early 2025, an extension to Nuuk airport will allow larger planes to land in Greenland, making it easier to reach from international destinations. Until the new runways open, flights to Greenland go via Reykjavik and Copenhagen into the country’s international airports, Nuuk, Kangerslussuaq and Ilulissat. Kulusuk and Narsarsuaq are also entry points from Reykjavik. 

Greenland is large and largely without roads. To travel between towns, Air Greenland flies to those with runways and runs helicopters to others. From April to December, the Arctic Umiaq Line runs coastal ferries from Qaqortoq in the south to Ilulissat in the north, with stops along the way. The full journey takes 4.5 days. Other ferries and coastal boats run up the west coast and across South Greenland in summer.

Within towns there are buses, taxis and cars, and you can also walk. It is advisable to book far in advance to secure a place (and for the best rates), and to have clear transport plans when you arrive in Greenland.

Top things to do in Greenland

Be awed by nature and humbled by culture. For the nature part, take a boat from Ilulissat, Nuuk or Qaqortoq and spend a day cruising the ice fjords, marveling at immense blue, white and gray icebergs and encountering all kinds of sea life from humpback whales to dolphins. Hike in the mountains surrounding the small town of Narsarsuaq and admire the ice sheet – you can even camp overnight on it at Camp Ice Cap near Kangerlussuaq.

Then immerse yourself in local culture and discover how people in Greenland really live. Experience the warmth of community and the power of history in a kaffemik, a local coffee morning, in Nuuk or Qaqortoq, or book into a wilderness camp and try Greenlandic glamping, with a side of fishing and foraging, for a true back-to-nature immersion in the country’s outdoors-driven lifestyle.

My favorite thing to do in Greenland

Nature watching in Greenland is off-the-chart amazing. You could spend all day cruising between icebergs and comparing their shapes and colors – and then there’s the wildlife. To see a sliver of a whale's back slip out of the water while you’re on a boat on the way to another town is sensational. The day I saw a polar bear climb a remote coastal cliff and disappear over a ridge remains one of the most memorable days of my life. These sights are framed by seas studded with icebergs, clear blue skies, uninhabited land and dark, jagged mountains, creating the most powerful punch of natural drama I’ve ever seen.

How much money do I need?

Greenland is not a cheap destination, but you can do it on a budget. Flight deals can be found outside the main summer season – a tip is to sign up to Air Greenland’s newsletter. As a general guide, a bed in a youth hostel in Nuuk will cost from around £100 per night, while a hotel will be around £200 per night. Luxury wilderness experiences typically cost at least £250 per night.

In terms of domestic transport, it is typically cheaper to take a boat rather than fly or take a helicopter. Booking in advance can also save money, but what you save in money you lose in time.

Greenland’s food is expensive – expect to spend around £25 for an evening meal in a restaurant – because so much of it has to be flown in. Save money by eating as locally as much as possible and cutting back on greens. A locally brewed beer might cost around £8 for a pint, while a coffee costs around £6. Bring a reusable water bottle as all Greenlandic water is drinkable.

Bring lots of layers, no matter the season

As mentioned, Greenland’s weather is highly changeable all year round, so pack with that in mind. Bring woolen layers, hiking boots, gloves, sunscreen, sunglasses and a snood at the very least. Hiking in jeans and city-style trainers is not recommended.

The northern lights can be seen throughout the year

Typically, northern lights season in Greenland runs from September until April, but check with the region you plan to visit to be sure. It’s possible to see the lights all year round, depending on where in Greenland you are, but you need a dark, cloudless night. The midnight sun takes over from June to July in the Arctic Circle region and April to August in more northerly locations, and then you will experience barely any darkness.

Greenlandic is the official language

Greenlanders speak Greenlandic; Danish is also used and many people, particularly in major hubs, speak English.

Staying safe in Greenland

Weather is one of the key risks in the country, so stay aware of the forecast, carry a GPS with you and know how to use a map. Tell someone where you are going before you set off. Wildlife risks can include polar bears and rabid arctic foxes. Calving icebergs can cause tsunamis and be fatal for those on boats. Travel insurance that covers all the activities you might do in Greenland is a must.

Etiquette notes

Note that the word Eskimo is considered an inappropriate term; Inuit is preferred.

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Best Time to Visit Greenland: A Seasonal Travel Guide

Updated: Mar 10

Are you planning a trip to Greenland and wondering about the best time to visit? Greenland is a stunning place to visit. It has something special for every season. You can see amazing icebergs and the beautiful Northern Lights there. It's a perfect destination for travelers.

Let's find out the best times to visit Greenland, discovering what each season has to offer.

Greenland's Seasons: A Year-Round Journey

Greenland's weather changes a lot, from very cold winters to nice summers.

Here's a breakdown of each season:

Winter (December to February):  It's snowy and beautiful. It's great for seeing the Northern Lights and having cozy nights in.

Spring (March to May): During this time, you'll see the ice starting to melt, and the landscape changing to green.

Summer (June to August):  You'll have lots of daylight. It's perfect for hiking, kayaking, and spotting wildlife.

Autumn (September to November):  It's a short but beautiful time. The colorful leaves are stunning, and there are fewer tourists. It's great for seeing the Northern Lights and going on peaceful hikes.

Winter Wonders in Greenland

Winter in Greenland is a dream for those who love snowy adventures. You can go dog sledding and enjoy Northern Lights excursions. Apart from these, there are other activities to enjoy. You can go snowshoeing through the pristine wilderness. You can also try snowmobiling over the vast icy landscapes. Ice fishing in the frozen lakes is another option.

For skiing adventurers, the slopes offer an exhilarating experience. Or imagine just relaxing in an aurora cabin, watching the Northern Lights swirl above you. For a more adventurous day, hike to see enormous icebergs anchored to the frozen ocean floor.

Winter in Greenland is a magical time. It gives you a special look at the region's rugged, serene beauty.

Spring's Thaw: A Time of Transformation

Spring in Greenland marks a period of transformation. As the ice starts melting, the landscapes change. This provides unique opportunities for snowmobiling. You can also watch wildlife, like seals and migratory birds. The formation of icebergs creates spectacular natural phenomena worth witnessing.

The Lively Greenlandic Summer

Summer is the time when Greenland truly comes alive. The midnight sun gives you long days for outdoor adventures. You can hike in lush valleys, kayak among icebergs, and watch whales. Places like Saqqaq and Kiattua Camps offer special experiences. You can enjoy the midnight sun and the serene natural beauty of the region there.

Autumn: A Short but Spectacular Season

Autumn in Greenland, though brief, is a season of stunning beauty. The landscape transforms with vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows. This time of year is ideal for tranquil hikes and catching early glimpses of the Northern Lights. You'll appreciate cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. Moreover, autumn is a great time for foraging as local berries and herbs are ripe for picking. And a bonus? The mosquitoes usually disappear by this season, making outdoor activities more enjoyable.

Autumn in Greenland is serene and vibrant. It's perfect for those who love to witness nature's transformations.

Why Summer is the Ultimate Time for a Greenland Adventure

Summer in Greenland is more than just pleasant weather and long days. This is your chance to experience the Greenlandic lifestyle. You can kayak alongside icebergs and learn about the rich local Inuit culture.

Summer in Greenland is packed with unforgettable adventures. Each day offers new opportunities to explore and make lasting memories.

Each season in Greenland has its own special appeal. Winter offers the Northern Lights, while summer brings vibrant life. Summer stands out for a mix of adventure, nature, and cultural experiences. Places like Kiattua and Saqqaq Camps are especially captivating during this time.

Ready to go? 

Begin planning your Greenland adventure today. Experience the midnight sun. Meet the friendly locals. Explore the wild beauty of this extraordinary destination. Don't miss out on an adventure of a lifetime!

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When Is The Best Time To Visit Greenland?

Editorial Note: Earth Curious contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks!

Greenland also has pretty extreme temperature and sunlight patterns, so you’ll need to understand the climate before booking your trip. So, when is the best time to explore this fascinating place? Well, that depends on the kind of trip you’re looking for.

Table of Contents

Visiting greenland by season, summer in greenland – june to august, winter in greenland – december – april, greenland by month, the takeaway.

Greenland experiences four clear seasons; however, it’s usually summer and winter that attract the most visitors. Greenland’s amount of light and darkness is dictated by season. In summer, Greenland experiences an entire 24 hours of sunshine a day. This miraculous phenomenon is known as the ‘midnight sun.’ In contrast, some parts of Greenland experience no sunshine for several days during winter.

Summer in Greenland is the best time to go if you love exploring the outdoors. It’s an ideal time for sailing, hiking, visiting national parks, and general outdoor fun. Summer is also a brilliant time to spot whales, and visitors have a high chance of spotting finbacks, humpbacks, and minke whales. If you’re extra lucky, you might even spot a narwhal.

While temperatures vary across Greenland due to its vast size, the capital of Nuuk can see temperatures of around 11 degrees during summer. While this still necessitates warm clothing, the daylight means you can happily adventure outside.

Summer Visits are Best for:

• Hiking • Sailing • Mountain trails • Whale watching • Learning about the fascinating Inuit Culture

Greenland’s Icey, Arctic winters also draw many travelers. Winter is perhaps most renowned for the famed Northern Lights , which illuminate the sky with their enchanting patterns after the sun sets. Winter is also fabulous for reveling in snow activities like dogsledding or hopping on a snowmobile. Frozen lakes offer visitors a fantastic skating experience, and if you’re the more adventurous sort, you might delight in some glacier hiking (with an experienced guide, of course.)

If you’re looking for a winter wonderland extravaganza, then Greenland in winter is the place to be.

Winter sees freezing temperatures in the minus 50s, so wear your proper snow gear at this time and wrap up!

Winter visits are Best for:

• Snow activities (like dogsledding) • Spotting the Northern lights (Aurora Borealis) • Glacier hikes

These months host some popular activities and events:

January: The sun’s first rising after a long and dark winter. While there is no set event, many communities will gather and sing songs together as they watch the sun return. The 6th of January also sees Mitaartut celebrations (Greenland’s version of Halloween)

February: Nuuk Snow Festival (which houses some of the best ice sculptures around.)

March: Arctic Circle Race

April: Arctic Palerfik – a long-standing festival where locals bid farewell to winter and the Arctic Sounds music festival.

May: Nuuk Nordic Cultural Festival

June: National Day of Greenland (which sees festivals across towns and settlements)

August: One of the best months to spot whales

September: Greenland Adventure Race

December: Igasa Food Festival (a must for foodies!)

Both summer and winter offer travelers plenty of activities and events. If you dream of spotting the infamous Northern Lights, you’ll need to visit Greenland between the end of September and April. If you love the cold, why not explore this essential Iceland guide or these stunning winter destinations in Europe?

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Discover the Best Time to Visit Greenland: A Guide to the Perfect Months to Explore the Arctic Paradise

Are you looking for an adventure in the frozen North? Look no further than Greenland! This massive island is full of stunning natural beauty, unique culture, and unforgettable experiences. But when is the best time to visit? Let’s explore.

Summer Months:

Greenland’s summer season is from June to August. During this time, the days are long, and the temperatures are milder, making it a popular time to visit. This is the perfect time to explore the rugged terrain, take a hike on a glacier, or even go whale watching.

One of the highlights of summer in Greenland is the Midnight Sun. During this time, the sun never sets, so you can enjoy the stunning beauty of the landscape well into the late-night hours.

• Bold experiences: hike glaciers, whale watching, and Midnight Sun
• Best time to visit: June to August

Winter Months:

Greenland’s winter season runs from September to May. During this time, the island is covered in a blanket of snow, and temperatures can be incredibly cold. However, winter in Greenland does have its perks, like the Northern Lights. This incredible natural phenomenon can be seen from late September to early April.

Winter is also the best time to go dog sledding. You can take a tour with experienced guides who will take you on a thrilling ride through the snowy landscape. Another popular winter activity is ice fishing. You can drill a hole in the ice and try to catch your own dinner.

• Bold experiences: Northern Lights, dog sledding, and ice fishing
• Best time to visit: late September to early April

Shoulder Months:

The shoulder months, from May to June and from August to September, can be a great time to visit Greenland, especially if you want to avoid the crowds. During these months, you can enjoy the beauty of spring or fall in Greenland, and still have the chance to go whale watching or hiking.

• Best time to visit: May to June and August to September

Overall, the best time to visit Greenland really depends on what experience you’re looking for. If you want to bask in the Midnight Sun, then summer is the time for you. If you’re looking for a winter wonderland full of adventure, then winter is the way to go. And if you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy some shoulder season beauty, then May, June, August, or September is your best bet. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey to Greenland!

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The 18 best places to see the northern lights.

Check the aurora borealis off your bucket list.

The Best Places for the Northern Lights

Getty Images

The northern lights, known as the aurora borealis, are a spectacular natural light show visible at certain times of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. They occur when electrically charged particles from the sun collide with gases in the Earth's atmosphere, creating vibrant streaks of blue, green, pink and violet dancing across the night sky. 2024 and 2025 are an excellent time to catch the northern lights: Solar activity will be at a peak, making for a more impressive experience, if you're in the right place.

The best places to see the aurora borealis have little light pollution, clear skies and no precipitation. The lights are only visible at northern latitudes when it's dark outside, so the months from September to April are best for seeing the aurora. There's also a Southern Hemisphere counterpart, the aurora australis; there are fewer easy spots from which to view this phenomenon, but if you're lucky, it can be equally brilliant.

For more information on the northern lights, scroll down to the FAQ section at the bottom of this page. Read on to discover the top destinations where you can see the kaleidoscopic northern and southern lights.

Fairbanks, Alaska

Fairbanks is by far one of the best places in the world to view the northern lights, as it's located directly under the auroral oval. This ring-shaped zone sits around the Earth's geomagnetic North Pole and is generally associated with the most vibrant aurora sightings. Visitors can expect to see the lights on an average of four out of five clear nights during aurora season, which lasts from late August to late April.

You can book a northern lights tour to see the aurora from the springs and tubs at Chena Hot Springs Resort. This excursion includes round-trip transportation to the resort from town, a soak in the hot springs, a visit to the Fairbanks Aurora Ice Museum and an aurora viewing tour; dinner and drinks centered around Alaska produce are an option extra with hot drinks supplied.

There's more to Fairbanks than just the northern lights: If you visit in late summer, consider family-friendly activities like a ride on the Riverboat Discovery or gold panning. For a festive holiday experience in the winter, head around 15 miles out of Fairbanks to visit the Santa Claus House in the city of North Pole. Travelers can also see ice sculptures in February and March at the impressive World Ice Art Championships or take a dog-sledding or snowmobiling tour .

Where to stay: For excellent chances of aurora viewing, book a private igloo at Borealis Basecamp, a top glamping resort located on 100 remote acres of boreal forest about 25 miles from Fairbanks. With activities like dog-sledding on top of aurora viewing, past visitors regularly describe it as a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Tromsø, Norway

Located about 220 miles above the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is one of several top spots to view the northern lights in Norway. At the darkest point of the aurora season – which runs from September to early April – the sun doesn't rise in this northern part of the country, although there is twilight during the day. With this level of darkness, there are more opportunities to see the aurora.

Tromsø itself is a small but lively city, so there's plenty to see and do when you're not looking up at the sky, including a visit to the beautiful Arctic Cathedral. In late January to early February, the city hosts the Northern Lights Festival, a 10-day music and performing arts event featuring a variety of musical genres.

Aurora chasers can view the lights on their own while in town, but to get a better view, it's recommended to head away from the city lights. Arctic Circle Tours is one company offering guided trips, with small groups for a more personal vibe. Alternatively, adventure-seekers can embark on an exhilarating husky trekking expedition in the Arctic wilderness.

Where to stay: For accommodations with harbor views, look no further than the Scandic Ishavshotel – guests love it for its convenient central location in the city, as well as its plus-sized breakfast buffet with plenty of choices.

Luosto and Rovaniemi (Lapland), Finland

Lapland is located within the Arctic Circle in the northernmost part of Finland. The northern lights are most visible here between the end of August and April – and approximately 200 times a year – so there are many opportunities for aurora spotting. Finnish Lapland is also known as home to the Sámi people (the only recognized Indigenous group in the European Union region), some 200,000 reindeer and Santa Claus – who can be visited in the town of Rovaniemi, the region's largest city and a great base for your aurora expedition.

Consider venturing roughly 70 miles north of Rovaniemi to the resort town of Luosto, set among the picturesque and hilly landscape of Pyhä-Luosto National Park. Here, you can also spend a magical evening outdoors under star-filled skies during a reindeer-drawn sleigh ride through the snow-covered forests. Jaakkola Reindeer Farm offers a reindeer sleigh tour to spot the aurora once weekly; it includes a stop to warm up at a bonfire camp with snacks, hot beverages and local fireside stories.

Where to stay: For a bucket list experience, watch the impressive light show from a glass igloo at Santa's Hotel Aurora & Igloos in Luosto. Past visitors love the cozy atmosphere here, boosted by amenities like saunas and log fireplaces. If you're sticking to Rovaniemi, the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel is a stunning choice, with designer cabins perched among the snow-covered taiga forest.

Orkney, Scotland

This group of captivating (and mostly uninhabited) islands, located about 10 miles off Scotland's remote northern coast, is one of the best places to see the northern nights in the U.K. Fall and winter are the best seasons to witness the aurora, also known in local Shetland dialect as the "Mirrie Dancers," with fall bringing the highest proportion of clear nights. A few places to see the spectacular light show include along the coast at Birsay or the Broch of Gurness, an archaeological ruin on a sweeping and dramatic coastline.

In addition to the aurora, Orkney is home to breathtaking coastal landscapes and more sheep than you can count (try some local lamb, if you can). Travelers can also visit the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with several monuments dating back 5,000 years.

Where to stay: During your visit, plan to stay in the historic town of Kirkwall, the capital of the Orkney Islands: The no-fuss Ayre Hotel offers harbor views, and past visitors compliment the hearty meals in the hotel restaurant. Spot the aurora close to town at Inganess Bay and Wideford Hill.

Yellowknife, Canada

Yellowknife, the capital of Canada 's Northwest Territories, dubs itself the "Aurora Capital of the World." Thanks to its position in the middle of the auroral oval, the city puts on one of the world's most awe-inspiring light shows. The period from mid-November to the beginning of April is the recommended time to spot the aurora, but it's also possible to see the aurora during more hospitable weather from late summer to early fall as the lights are visible up to 240 days a year.

Located on the northern shore of Great Slave Lake, Yellowknife boasts winter sports such as ice fishing and cross-country skiing. If you visit in March, plan to attend the monthlong Snowkings' Winter Festival, which features events and activities like a snow-carving competition, a snow castle, live music and more.

For a unique experience, book a tour through Aurora Village to view the lights. The property will pick you up from your hotel and take you to its site, where you can stay warm in a tent while sipping hot beverages. The Aboriginal-owned Aurora Village also offers activities such as dog-sledding or snowshoeing excursions.

Where to stay: Warm up in the fireside lounge at The Explorer Hotel in Yellowknife. Previous visitors note the warm and helpful staff as a strength here.

Jukkasjärvi, Sweden

The optimal time for seeing the illuminated skies in the northern part of Sweden, known as Swedish Lapland, is between early September and late March. The small Swedish village of Jukkasjärvi sits around 125 miles above the Arctic Circle on the Torne River and is an ideal locale for aurora viewing. You'll fly to the nearby Kiruna Airport to get here. With the village's origins dating back to the 17th century, you can still find some of the original homesteads, including an old timber cottage. Today the village boasts 800 residents – and more than 1,000 dogs.

Where to stay: If you're up for a chilly overnight adventure, reserve accommodations at the world's first permanent ice hotel, the aptly named Icehotel 365. Each of its artist-designed suites is sculpted from ice with a unique theme and maintains temperatures around minus 5 degrees Celsius (about 23 degrees Fahrenheit). The rooms also feature beds with reindeer hides and thermal sleeping bags so you can bundle up during the night. While you're at the property, take advantage of the guided "Northern Lights Safari on Snowmobile" or embark on the "Moose Safari on Horseback" atop an Icelandic horse.

Reykjavik, Iceland

October through March is the best time to chase the aurora borealis in Iceland . There are numerous natural parks and attractions throughout the country where you can view the show during the long and dark winter, but the capital city of Reykjavik also offers many options for accommodations, restaurants, tours and other activities for your visit. For optimum aurora viewing in the city away from the light pollution, head to Öskjuhlið. This wooded and hilly area in Reykjavik sits at 200 feet above sea level and has walkways and paths where you can see the nighttime show.

Atop this hill sits Perlan, which houses the only planetarium in the country and a museum featuring exhibits about Iceland. Perlan is also home to the world's first indoor ice cave and glacier exploratorium. During your visit, don't miss the panoramic views of the city from the building's fourth-floor observation deck. From this vantage point, you'll be able to see the Snæfellsjökull glacier; Keilir, a volcanic mountain; and Esja, the mountain of Reykjavik.

Where to stay: While in Reykjavik, splurge on an overnight tour with Buubble Tours. This experience includes breathtaking sightseeing spots and a night spent under the magical northern skies in a transparent bubble at the 5 Million Star Hotel. For longer stays, consider the eco-friendly Eyja Guldsmeden Hotel, with sweeping views of the city – guests love it for its cozy yet chic Scandinavian design.

Southern Iceland

While Reykjavik is a great aurora-viewing spot if you like having amenities close by, consider getting out into Iceland's stunning, otherworldly countryside for a unique backdrop for the northern lights. One unique place to see them is the black sand beach at Reynisfjara (but watch out for the dangerous waves here). Alternatively, head to Jökulsárlón, a glacial lagoon and seal habitat, where the aurora's reflections in the icy water are truly beautiful.

There's no shortage of tours that will stop by these locations and more for possible aurora sightings. Consider a 10- or 13-day tour around the country with Fun Travel, or a four-day option from Arctic Adventures. If you want to do things at your own place, it's also possible to self-drive – just know that road conditions can be icy, particularly in the depths of winter (although Icelandic roads are generally well-maintained).

Where to stay: Hotel Rangá is a formidable option for aurora-spotting. It offers a variety of special amenities, such as aurora wake-up calls, a lookout deck and snowsuits to keep you warm if you're outside viewing the lights. Past visitors praise Rangá for being a comfortable yet luxurious place to relax, be it in the outdoor hot tubs or the cozy and sociable bar.

Kangerlussuaq, Greenland

Greenland may not be the most accessible place to travel for viewing the northern lights, with limited flight options (mostly via Iceland), but those who make it here will be thrilled they did. The tundra of Kalaallit Nunaat – the Greenlandic name for the country – is one of the best places on the globe to see the aurora from September to early April.

For the more adventurous aurora seekers, head to the top of the Greenland Ice Cap for spectacular views of the lights. This impressive glacier covers 80% of the country and is accessible via the tiny town of Kangerlussuaq. Located on a fjord right along the Arctic Circle, the town, often described as a gateway to Greenland, was a former U.S. Air Force base and is now home to Greenland's main airport. The town is known for having clear skies on some 300 nights per year, so chances of a sighting are particularly good here.

Tour company Guide to Greenland offers various tours, from two-hour aurora-viewing trips to a tough but rewarding multi-night dog-sledding expedition across the ice. For a less strenuous experience, companies like Nordic Saga Tours offer cruises through the Arctic landscapes around Kangerlussuaq.

Viking cruise along Norway's coast

Courtesy of Viking

Embrace the winter and set sail for the Arctic Circle to experience the aurora in northern Norway. The 13-day "In Search of the Northern Lights" cruise itinerary with Viking departs from London for the North Sea with stops in ports of call that are top aurora-viewing locales, including Tromsø, Alta and Narvik, plus a stop in Amsterdam en route. The cruise ends in Bergen, Norway.

While on land, take in the natural beauty of the snow-blanketed landscapes and book bucket list excursions like a night spent in an igloo or a reindeer sledding adventure. You can also chase the lights into the wilderness by snowmobile, take a dog sled ride under the stars or view them from a Sámi tent atop the mountain Pæska in Alta. This Viking Ocean Cruises itinerary is offered with departure dates from mid-January to mid-March.

Headlands International Dark Sky Park, Michigan

Regarded as one of the top spots in the U.S. to see the aurora outside Alaska, Headlands International Dark Sky Park sits at the top of Michigan 's lower peninsula, less than 5 miles from Mackinaw City. While the northern lights are less common here due to the relatively southern location, the best time to catch a glimpse of this phenomenon is typically during the spring and fall – and appearances can usually be predicted a couple of days in advance. The park even maintains an online Clear Sky Chart so you can check the weather forecast before you go.

There are also other stargazing opportunities throughout the year at Headlands. During the summer months the Milky Way is visible across the sky, and late summer evenings entertain visitors with meteor showers.

Where to stay: If you're visiting between late April and the end of October, splurge on a stay at Mission Point Resort on Mackinac Island, where the aurora should also be visible. Guests describe this iconic property situated along the shoreline of Lake Huron as positively charming, thanks to its historic nature and manicured grounds. The resort also offers a host of outdoor activities from bike rentals to swimming.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota

Martha Shuff | Courtesy of Voyageurs National Park

Located on the international border between Minnesota and Ontario, Voyageurs National Park is an approximately 218,000-acre labyrinth of boreal forests, lakes and streams. Voyageurs is Minnesota's only national park; it's also unique in that the park's interior is accessible only by boat, unless you visit by snowmobile in winter. As a certified International Dark Sky Park , Voyageurs provides opportunities to view the Milky Way on clear evenings, especially in the summer. Year-round aurora viewing is also possible on evenings with clear dark skies, but chances are better during the winter, when it's dark for longer.

For a guided stargazing tour – including the Milky Way, the constellations and (if you're lucky) the northern lights – book with Voyageurs Outfitters. If you're on your own, park officials note that almost any campsite is a good spot for northern lights viewing and stargazing. You can also check out the boat launch areas around Ash River, Kabetogama Lake and the Rainy Lake Visitor Center for top-notch views.

Where to stay: Those who prefer to sleep in a warm, cozy bed instead of camping under the stars can make reservations at the Cantilever Distillery + Hotel, a boutique Trademark Collection by Wyndham property in the nearby town of Ranier, Minnesota. Visitors report that there's a lot to like here, from the industrial-chic rooms to friendly staff to top-notch cocktails in the active distillery on the premises.

Abisko National Park, Sweden

Given its Arctic location, Sweden is one of the prime spots for aurora viewing in the Northern Hemisphere, with Swedish Lapland at the top of the list. The fall and winter months (from September to March) offer the best opportunities to witness the spectacle, as there is more darkness than light during the days.

If you're up for the Arctic adventure, December is an ideal month to visit Abisko National Park, which some regard as one of the best places on Earth to see the lights dance across the sky. The park's mountainous terrain and clear dark skies offer dramatic front-row seats for viewing the northern lights. The Aurora Sky Station is one of the best vantage points to see the aurora in the park. Join one of the expert presentations to learn about the science behind this fascinating phenomenon.

If you'd prefer to chase the lights with a curated tour, professional photographers and aurora-chasing guides at Visit Abisko lead three- to four-hour tours throughout the fall and winter. If you can, try to join the tours in fall, as this time of year offers a unique opportunity to view the lights both in the sky and reflected in the lakes and rivers, which you won't see in the winter months.

Where to stay: For cozy Nordic vibes, stay at Abisko Mountain Lodge, which also offers activities like ice climbing and snowmobile tours in winter. Guests love the excellent restaurant here, which offers Swedish specialties ranging from salmon to moose.

Nellim, Finland

Courtesy of Wilderness Hotels

Located a stone's throw from the Russian border in Finnish Lapland, this remote Arctic destination is a top-rated locale to view the northern lights due to the lack of light pollution. You'll be seriously out of the way of any built-up areas, as there's not even a paved road into Nellim. The best time to visit is between December and early April. This village is a great place to hunker down in a lodge and relax while enjoying a slice of life in the Finnish wilderness.

Where to stay: The Nellim Wilderness Hotel offers a perfect base with year-round activities, including aurora-chasing tours by car, snowmobile or on snowshoes. You can even take a sleigh ride through the snow to a campsite on Lake Inari to spot the aurora in pristine nature.

Beyond standard rooms, the Wilderness Hotel also offers glass-roofed cabins, as well as classic log cabins and bubble-shaped accommodations for two where guests can watch the dancing lights through the glass roof above your warm, cozy bed. When you're not chasing the lights, enjoy other Arctic activities like a husky safari, ice fishing, snowmobiling or a day in the snow meeting the local reindeer.

Saariselkä and Kakslauttanen, Finland

These two towns are around 150 miles above the Arctic Circle, with a prime location under the auroral oval, allowing as many as 200 opportunities per year to see the northern lights (weather permitting, of course). This area in Finnish Lapland is known for its stunning scenery, Sámi culture, cross-country and downhill skiing, and Urho Kekkonen National Park – one of Finland's largest.

Ski enthusiasts can roll two trips into one by hitting the slopes by day in Saariselkä and aurora spotting by night at Finland's northernmost ski resort. March into early April is the best time to view the aurora, as the Finnish Meteorological Institute notes that the weather is usually clearer at this time of year. But it's possible to see the northern lights at any time during the season from late August to early or mid-April.

Where to stay: Seven miles south of Saariselkä sits the village of Kakslauttanen, where you can book two- or four-person Glass Igloos at the Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort. The new Kelo-Glass Igloos, which sleep up to six, mix the comforts of a log chalet with the visibility of the glass roof; enjoy a private sauna, a fireplace and more. There's also an impressive selection of year-round tours and activities at this resort, including northern lights excursions on snowmobiles or by horse-drawn carriage.

Stewart Island, New Zealand

Courtesy of RealNZ

Although they may be isolated, some far-south destinations offer the chance to see the aurora australis – or southern lights. While you might be able to see them year-round in some locations (just as with the northern lights), certain months are better for aurora viewing in the Southern Hemisphere. Stewart Island is regarded as one of the top spots to see the brilliant display in New Zealand , with 85% of the island encompassed by Rakiura National Park, so there are few people and virtually no light pollution. You can reach Stewart Island by flying in from Invercargill or taking a ferry from Bluff.

New Zealand's winter months – June to August – are the best time to see the southern lights; spring and fall are also not bad times to spot them. The brighter summer months, between December and February, make it more difficult to spot the aurora, but there's still a chance you'll catch a glimpse between midnight and 4 a.m.

Where to stay: Consider reserving a room with at Stewart Island Lodge, an intimate bed-and-breakfast. This beautiful property is just minutes by foot from the village of Oban, and the property will pick you up at the ferry terminal for your stay. Past visitors rave about the spectacular views of Halfmoon Bay and the Foveaux Strait from both the rooms and lodge terrace.

Tasmania sits approximately 150 miles south of mainland Australia. This mountainous island is one of relatively few places on the planet where it's theoretically possible to see the aurora 365 days a year due to its latitude, which allows for full darkness even on summer nights. The capital city of Hobart is the easiest point of entry: It's home to Tasmania's largest airport and serves as a convenient base. The city's burgeoning food and cultural scenes will also give you plenty to see and do.

From here you'll be able to reach several great viewing locations with unobstructed and open views of the sea along the southern and southeast coastlines, like Goat Bluff and Tinderbox Bay. When you're not staring at the night sky, splurge on a once-in-a-lifetime helicopter flight with Tasmanian Air Tours. Depending on your whims, your private pilot can whisk you away to soar over the sea cliffs; stop at a local winery to sample local vintages; or head south to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Port Arthur , Tasmania 's historic and most notorious prison.

Where to stay: Reserve accommodations at The Tasman, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Hobart. The historic luxury property is situated along the lively waterfront area with harbor views. Past guests admired the historic building housing the hotel and loved the heritage rooms featuring gas fireplaces for those cold Tasmanian nights.

Expedition cruise to Antarctica

If you're one of the lucky few people on the planet to travel to the southernmost continent on Earth, it may be pricey, but you'll have an adventure of a lifetime in Antarctica, especially if the aurora illuminates the sky. The southern lights are most visible in the winter months (between March and October), but due to weather conditions, only researchers brave the Antarctic winter – and they mostly stay indoors.

However, all hope is not lost if you seek to view the aurora australis in Antarctica. Late-season expedition cruises to this continent offered in March also bring the opportunity to view the southern lights and enjoy the end of Antarctica's fleeting summer. As the days shorten in length, you may encounter light snow across the extreme landscape and ice starting to form on the water's surface.

When it comes to wildlife viewing, humpback whale sightings are abundant, and you'll still see penguin colonies – including king and gentoo penguins. You can also keep your eyes peeled for elephant seals, leopard seals, wandering albatross and other species of birds. When night falls on clear evenings, look for the light show in the southern sky. Companies that offer March voyages include Swoop Antarctica, Atlas Ocean Voyages, Silversea Cruises , Aurora Expeditions and Hurtigruten Expeditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

There's no one location that's widely accepted as the best place to see the northern lights. However, the strongest light displays are within what's called the "auroral oval": a rough circle around the Earth's magnetic northern pole that tends to occur around 60 to 70 degrees of latitude. The oval's exact size expands and contracts (some more southerly destinations can fall under it when the aurora is particularly strong), but there are certain locations that generally fall within the oval most of the time.

These places include:

• Central and northern Alaska
• Large areas of Yukon, the Northwest Territories and northern Quebec in Canada
• Southern Greenland
• Far northern Norway, Sweden and Finland

Within these areas, it could be argued that Iceland is the best place to see the aurora as it experiences much milder temperatures than some other areas within the oval. But this is subjective, and some travelers may prefer a location like Yellowknife in Canada for a full-on, very cold Arctic experience.

The northern lights are only visible when it's dark out. Since many of the best places to see them are so far north that they experience near-constant daylight in the summer, you'll generally want to schedule a trip between late August and early April. However, within this time period, there's some debate about the best time to catch the lights. For example, the aurora tends to be more active around the September and March equinoxes due to stronger solar winds – but on the other hand, your chances of seeing them may be higher in the depths of winter, since there's longer nights and therefore a longer window in which they might appear.

In more southern locations like Minnesota, it may be possible to see the light show in the summer months, but it's still advisable to go at a time when the nights are longer. It can also be worth trying to schedule your northern lights trip when there's a new moon: While the aurora can shine through moonlight, it may be harder to see if there's a full moon.

Of course, cloudy weather can block the aurora even if you go at the right time of year. So, it may be wise to research the local weather patterns at your chosen destination to find out if there's a month where you can expect clearer skies. In many cases, though, there's a little luck involved.

These two countries can offer excellent views of the northern lights, since both are directly under the typical auroral oval. Yet there are some differences to be aware of.

In Norway, you'll need to head to the north of the country to catch the aurora: While they have been sighted in Oslo , the capital and largest city, it's too far south to be a reliable vantage point. Cities like Tromsø are popular spots, but direct flights there are only possible from some European cities, so North Americans will have to take connecting flights. On the other hand, Iceland is generally easier to reach, with direct flights to its capital, Reykjavik, from a large number of U.S. destinations (particularly from the East Coast) with no further connection required.

Since clear skies are key for seeing the northern lights, weather is another factor to consider. In November, December and March, Reykjavik has statistically slightly more frequent clear skies, while in January and February, Tromsø is a little better, but the difference isn't big: Both places have clear skies only around 25 to 30% of the time in these months. Reykjavik has slightly warmer weather, though, so between that and the ease of access, it has a slight edge over Norway for seeing the northern lights.

Alaska and Iceland are known for stellar aurora light shows, so deciding between them may depend on which destination you find more convenient and more to your tastes. In Alaska , the city of Fairbanks is considered a great spot to catch the northern lights. (They can still be seen elsewhere in the state – for example, in Anchorage, although they're not so common in more southern locations like Juneau). The advantage of Fairbanks is that you won't need a passport , yet there aren't many direct flights from the lower 48 states. Despite being an international destination, Iceland may be more accessible (particularly from the eastern U.S.), thanks to fairly regular flights to Reykjavik from numerous American cities.

Fairbanks does offer statistically better weather for aurora viewing: It has clear skies more often than Reykjavik, particularly in March when the Alaska city experiences them around 45% of the time (compared to about 25% for Reykjavik). But you'll have to be able to tolerate the cold. While temperatures in Reykjavik hover around freezing in midwinter, Fairbanks is a veritable deep freeze, with average highs around 5 degrees Fahrenheit down to lows colder than minus 5 in December.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Timothy Forster , as a Canadian who has traveled from coast to coast in that sprawling country, knows all about travel in the cold northern reaches of the world. Forster used his extensive traveling background along with research expertise to curate this article.

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3 tips to catching northern lights!

Want to maximise your trip chances of catching northern lights here’s 3 tips on how to do just that.

In order to catch a glimpse of the northern lights last winter, I joined a group of photographers on their hunt for the ever fleeting aurora borealis. Want to maximise your chances of seeing the northern lights in Greenland? Here’s 3 tips to consider, learnt from these hunters!

ALWAYS BE ON STANDBY FOR THE NORTHERN LIGHTS!

Unfortunately no-one can order the northern lights to come out and play. However, chances of seeing northern lights in Greenland are very high as the aurora belt spans across the country. Some places in Greenland are better than others though .

But why did I say to ‘be on standby’? Well, let me set the scene: I’m visiting the town of Ilulissat and dining with two friends, Mads and Nuka. These two guys are both excellent photographers (read fanatics) so it only takes a bit of time before northern lights enters the conversation. Mads tells Nuka that he heard that the best time to capture northern lights right was at 5 o’clock in the morning lately.

“Oh no,” I think to myself, “we’re going to have an early start”.

“Or set your alarm on at 2:30 AM tomorrow, and you’ll get a whole full moon that’s red!” responds Nuka in reply. Which is when the voice in my head tells me in panic, “Scratch that – we’re not going to sleep at all!”

Luckily, you can also see the northern lights at reasonable hours of the evening. I’m just saying that soldiers who are fully committed to the cause are prepared to wake up at any time of the night. Also, the great thing about Greenland is that even in the towns, you don’t have to go far to see the northern lights put on a show. Sometimes you can just look out your window…

Unfortunately no-one can order the northern lights to come out and play. However, chances of seeing northern lights in Greenland are very high as the aurora belt spans across the country. Some places in Greenland are better than others though.

Continues further down the page...

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AVOID THE FULL MOON

A little later in the night, Mads and Nuka receive a text from their friend Rino, who asked them if they wanted to go out and shoot photos that evening. That sparked a chain of events, and shortly afterwards, we were in a car discussing where the best place to go was.

We had to find a dark place far from town and artificial lights – so we chose the graveyard at Ilulissat. It was dark enough among the crosses, due to the absence of street lamps. Surprisingly though the night sky was not dark. The crescent-shaped moon was flaming like a torch, reflecting against the snow and lighting up the entire landscape. Due to the brightness of the moon, the chances of seeing northern lights were low.

Yes, moonlight really affects the visibility of stars and northern lights. I doubt that the average person thinks about this but of course it makes sense….and websites such as moonconnection.com will help you to find out if you will have a full moon or a dark moon.

Still, you can be lucky and against the odds the northern lights may appear anyway. Like it did on this night after only ten minutes of no action.

KEEP WARM, REALLY WARM

In the dead of winter in Greenland, you can experience temperatures between 5 – 35 degrees Celcius below. No matter how many layers of clothing you might put on, you’ll probably still feel some numbness in your fingers. I was freezing my pants off.

I asked my friends why they let themselves suffer night after night for photos. Rino replied,

“It is an amazing phenomenon. People come all over the world to see the northern lights. When I take photos of the view and put them on international websites, people go crazy over them.”

That said, it is in your best interest to keep as warm as possible. Like every basic Arctic handbook instructs, layer up and look silly – we all do it. Check out how Yahoo Travel’s Paula Froelich dresses for the arctic on this video .

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Visit Greenland (@visitgreenland)

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By Tanny Por

Tanny Por is Head of International Relations at Visit Greenland with responsibility for international market development, press and PR. She loves building and nurturing ideas and connections that will help to contribute to the sustainable tourism future of Greenland. Her favourite experience of Greenland is one winter in East Greenland where she saw purple northern lights overlooking the icefjord one completely silent evening!

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The Northern Lights are expected to be spectacular. Here's where to get a good view.

Megan Swift is a TribLive reporter covering trending news in Western Pennsylvania. A Murrysville native, she joined the Trib full time in 2023 after serving as editor-in-chief of The Daily Collegian at Penn State. She previously worked as a Jim Borden Scholarship intern at the Trib for three summers. She can be reached at [email protected].

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How to See the Northern Lights in Alaska in 2024

T he National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says solar activity is intensifying and will peak (at a higher level than previously thought) in 2024. This means travelers will have more opportunities to see the northern lights around the world .

If you're considering a trip to Alaska to witness this atmospheric phenomenon, read on to discover the best months to visit as well as a variety of viewing options.

Category Navigation Box Enhancement : Table of Contents - Travel - How to See the Northern Lights in Alaska

The best time to see the northern lights in Alaska

According to the Alaska Travel Industry Association, the best time to see the northern lights is typically from Aug. 21 to April 21 , also known as the Aurora Season. While the aurora can appear at any time of night, 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. are the prime viewing hours.

The winter solstice – which is the shortest day of the year, typically falling between Dec. 20 and 23 – is a particularly good time to be in Alaska for the northern lights. This day affords less daylight and more time to spot the aurora. In parts of Alaska, the amount of daylight during the winter solstice can range from around six hours in Anchorage to less than four further north in Fairbanks. Up in remote Utqiagvik (formerly called Barrow), about 320 miles north of the Arctic Circle, there are roughly 67 days of darkness from Nov. 18 to Jan. 23, resulting in even more opportunities to spot the northern lights.

Of course, 2024 is expected to be a little different. Scientists say solar activity will reach its peak from January to October, expanding the typical time frame for spotting the aurora. Ahead of and during your visit, experts recommend utilizing these forecasting resources:

• Aurora Tracker: Whether you're a beginner or an experienced aurora chaser, you'll appreciate Explore Fairbanks' real-time Aurora Tracker . This online reference shows up-to-the-minute information on the temperature, weather and likelihood of catching the northern lights in Fairbanks. Much of the data comes from one of the world's foremost aurora research centers, the Geophysical Institute at the University of Alaska–Fairbanks. To further assist in your search, you can also download the My Aurora Forecast & Alerts app on your smartphone.
• Aurora Forecast: For other parts of the state, the Geophysical Institute website's Aurora Forecast has daily forecasts of geomagnetic activity up to three days in advance and taken at three-hour intervals. There's also a summation on the webpage of whether the aurora will be active – or not – and where you'll find the best visibility in Alaska.

Where to see the northern lights in Alaska

Below are the top destinations to consider when deciding where to see the northern lights in Alaska.

Fairbanks, known as the Golden Heart of Alaska, sits at 65 degrees north latitude, making it an excellent choice for aurora hunters, especially first-timers. It's easily accessible and offers plenty of accommodations , restaurants and other unique attractions . You can also be outside of Fairbanks within minutes to find excellent northern lights viewing locales.

Your chances of seeing the aurora display are excellent as the city sits where the activity of the polar lights is concentrated – under the ring-shaped zone known as the auroral oval. Local experts say that on clear evenings when the sky is very dark, you should be able to witness the skies light up on an average of four out of five nights in Fairbanks.

Where to stay:

• Aurora Villa : Located on the outskirts of Fairbanks, Aurora Villa offers luxurious guest rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows for viewing the northern lights in a cozy private space. The modern wooden cabin sits on 10 acres surrounded by forested hills, yet it's close enough to the city (less than 15 miles northeast) to explore all that Fairbanks has to offer.
• Pike's Waterfront Lodge : Located along the Chena River in Fairbanks, just minutes from Fairbanks International Airport, this property offers 180 rooms and 28 cabins for aurora-hunting adventurers. As a guest of the lodge, you can request that the front desk alert you when the northern lights appear – no matter the time of day or night. Pike's Waterfront Lodge also offers amenities to keep guests warm while viewing the light show outdoors.

Talkeetna sits about 115 miles north of Anchorage in south-central Alaska, at the base of Denali, the tallest mountain peak in North America. With its old clapboard buildings, log cabins and roadhouse dating back to 1917, this historic town offers a lot of outdoor fun beyond chasing the aurora. Main Street is filled with galleries, shops, restaurants and a brewery. The quirky village, once a former mining town, was the inspiration for the imaginary borough of Cicely in the TV show "Northern Exposure."

If you visit in December, check out the festivities at the monthlong Winterfest. This event features a parade of lights, a tree lighting ceremony and the Taste of Talkeetna food festival, plus entertaining events like the Bachelor Auction and the Wilderness Woman Competition.

When it's time to look up in the sky for the lights, local aurora hunters recommend heading out of town to Christiansen Lake or past the airport on Beaver Road. If you prefer to stay close by, look north into the sky toward Denali from Talkeetna Riverfront Park.

• Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge : Book a Mountain View room for views of Denali and the Alaskan Range. The cozy lodge offers multiple dining venues, including the award-winning Foraker Restaurant.
• Talkeetna Lakeside Cabins : These cabins provide peace and quiet on a private lake just 12 miles from Talkeetna.

Denali National Park

Denali National Park is another spectacular place to view the northern lights in Alaska – not to mention one of the top tourist attractions in the U.S. The National Park Service says almost everywhere within the park is free from city light pollution, so if the conditions are right (meaning that's it's clear and dark enough), you should be able to see the aurora borealis, especially when looking toward the northern horizon.

However, when wintertime rolls around – from September or October through April – it's more difficult to access parts of the park, even though it's open year-round. Keep in mind, too, that the lodges closest to the park are typically closed from mid-September to mid-May.

Where to stay: Located less than 15 miles from the Denali National Park entrance, the Aurora Denali Lodge offers year-round accommodations equipped with queen-sized beds, smart TVs and private bathrooms. Rates at the lodge include a continental breakfast, free Wi-Fi, free parking and complimentary hot drinks. What's more, the property says visitors can expect plenty of wildlife sightings, such as bears, moose, lynxes, owls and snowshoe hares, just outside your door.

Coldfoot Camp

Coldfoot Camp is situated above the Arctic Circle in the Brooks Mountain Range, near the Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve and the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. The remote wilderness destination is ideal for aurora viewing since it sits directly under the auroral oval. It's also the perfect locale for backcountry snowshoeing, wildlife viewing and dog mushing.

Where to stay: The Inn at Coldfoot Camp offers rustic accommodations located in trailers that once housed Alaskan pipeline workers. The rooms include two twin beds and a private bathroom and shower. Guests can dine at the on-site Trucker's Cafe, which offers breakfast and dinner buffets in the summer months and all-day a la carte dining in the winter. When you're ready for a cold one at the end of the day, check out the Frozen Foot Saloon and order an Alaska-brewed beer.

If you prefer camping and have your own gear , you can camp free of charge on the property during the summer months. Coldfoot Camp also hosts a selection of year-round Arctic adventures and excursions, including a trip to the nearby village of Wiseman for aurora viewing.

This remote wilderness retreat has just 13 full-time residents. Wiseman is located in Alaska's Brooks Range, about 15 miles north of Coldfoot Camp, 60 miles north of the Arctic Circle and 270 miles from Fairbanks. The community sits directly under the auroral oval, making it one of the best places in Alaska to view the northern lights. You can expect to see the spectacle in the sky in Wiseman about 250 nights a year, especially between late August and mid-April.

• Arctic Hive : Arctic Hive has the distinction of being the northernmost yoga studio in the U.S. A common fiberglass lodge allows guests to gather for cooking and meals, and meditation, educational gatherings and other activities are hosted in a geodesic dome. Arctic Hive also offers retreats that include northern lights viewing opportunities in February and March.
• Arctic Getaway : This bed-and-breakfast sits between the middle fork of the Koyukuk River and Wiseman Creek, offering three cabins. While here, you can learn what it's like to homestead in Alaska above the Arctic Circle and enjoy outdoor activities like dog sled rides across the vast wilderness, cross-country skiing , pack rafting and flightseeing by bush plane.
• Boreal Lodging : Reachable by vehicle, Boreal Lodging has several rental options, ranging from lodge rooms to larger cabins with living areas and kitchens.

Located in western Alaska overlooking the Norton Sound of the Bering Sea, Nome is the ending point for the more than 1,000-mile, 51-year-old Iditarod Trail Dog Sled Race in March. Once the most populated city in Alaska, Nome had almost 20,000 residents and an average of 1,000 new people arriving daily during the height of the gold rush in 1899. Nome is a little quieter now, with a population of less than 4,000 residents.

Where to stay: Some of the best spots for viewing the aurora are at the end of town, where the 52-room Aurora Inn & Suites is located. The hotel conveniently offers car rentals on-site.

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Situated on the banks of the Arctic Ocean, Utqiagvik is the northernmost city in the U.S. The town, formerly known as Barrow, changed its name in 2016 back to Utqiagvik, its traditional Inupiaq name. Utqiagvik is only accessible by plane: Alaska Airlines and other regional carriers offer service from both Anchorage and Fairbanks.

Where to stay: For accommodations, make reservations at a hotel named for its location – the Top of the World Hotel . The property's comfortable rooms offer views of the Arctic Ocean, and the on-site restaurant, Niggivikput (meaning "our place to eat"), serves traditional local dishes like reindeer soup. While you may be there for aurora hunting, don't miss the excellent wildlife-viewing opportunities: You may see polar bears, caribou, foxes, bearded seals, whales, walruses, migratory birds and the great snowy owl on the tundra.

Borealis Basecamp

One of the best glamping destinations in the U.S. , Borealis Basecamp is a remote 100-acre property that sits within a boreal forest 25 miles north of Fairbanks. The property features 20 individual igloos, resembling those you'd find at Arctic research stations and on polar expeditions, as well as five glass cubes. All accommodations allow guests to gaze up at the aurora and the starry night sky while snuggled up in bed. You'll also enjoy many amenities you'd find in a hotel, including full bathrooms with toiletries and a selection of coffee, hot cocoa and tea.

Choose from a variety of packages that include accommodations and activities like dog-sledding, UTV tours, helicopter sightseeing experiences and more.

Northern lights Alaska cruises

One of the best times to cruise to Alaska is during the aurora season. Aurora season sailings to Alaska are available with the following cruise lines this year.

If you're interested in excursions for aurora viewing, look for a line that offers cruisetours, such as Holland America. These tours offer the best of both worlds, giving you time on land and at sea to view the dancing night sky. Holland America's cruisetours range from overnight stays just 2 miles from Denali National Park at the McKinley Chalet Resort to a domed luxury train ride through Alaska's backcountry on the McKinley Explorer. On a Tundra Wilderness Tour in Denali, look for Alaska's "Big Five": grizzly bears, moose, caribou, Dall sheep and wolves. Just keep in mind that none of the above cruise lines can guarantee you'll see the northern lights during your journey.

The best northern lights tours in Alaska

If you want to experience the aurora borealis by joining a tour group, you'll find a variety of options led by expert guides and granting you easier access to many of the state's remote destinations, often with other activities included. (Just be aware that, on any tour or excursion, there's no way to guarantee that the aurora will be visible.) These are some of the best northern lights tours in Alaska:

Arctic Dog Adventure Co.: Aurora Overnight Tour

Dog-sledding is one of the top winter activities in Alaska, and you can choose to do it by day or night. If you want to experience an Alaska dog-sledding adventure while chasing the aurora, book a once-in-a-lifetime experience with Arctic Dog's Aurora Overnight Tour. Highlights of this two-day, one-night excursion – which starts in Fairbanks – are dog mushing your own sled team and glamping in a heated tent under an aurora-filled sky. Other features of the tour include cold weather gear, a photography lesson and Alaska-inspired meals.

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Alaska Wildlife Guide: Northern Lights & Murphy Dome Tour

Located around 20 miles northwest of the city, Murphy Dome is regarded as one of the best places to watch the northern lights in Fairbanks at nearly 3,000 feet above sea level. This location, once home to Murphy Dome Air Force Station with as many as 250 personnel stationed at the base, now houses a long-range radar station that detects military air threats from overseas.

Alaska Wildlife Guide leads 5.5-hour northern lights tours to Murphy Dome, typically from late August to early April – you can check with the company for day-to-day tour availability. Excursion prices include round-trip transportation from Fairbanks, 360-degree views of the north-facing sky, hot beverages and bottled water – in addition to (hopefully) hours of memorable aurora viewing.

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Alaska Wildlife Guide: Northern Lights & Arctic Circle Tour

This full-day (14-hour) excursion, also offered by Alaska Wildlife Guide, begins in Fairbanks and crosses the Arctic Circle into Alaska's vast and remote wilderness. The tour includes a drive along the more than 800-mile Trans-Alaskan Pipeline and a half-mile walk along the loop at Finger Mountain with views overlooking the Kanuti Flats (depending on the season). Your guide will also stop along the riverbank after crossing the Yukon River Bridge.

During the tour, you'll learn about the history of the pipeline and hear narratives around the other included stops. A snack and warm beverage are included; then, if conditions are just right, you'll have the chance to see the brilliant light show dance across the dark, clear skies before you arrive back in Fairbanks at dawn.

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Alaska Journey Tours: Northern Lights (Aurora) Chasing Tour

Get picked up at your Fairbanks hotel (or meet at the Hyatt Place Fairbanks) for this three-hour northern lights tour in a heated SUV. Guides take photos of tourgoers as well as their own photos of the night sky, which are later shared with the group. Recent travelers praise this tour, and appreciate that the guides are always determined to give them the best northern lights viewing experience.

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Alaska Tours: Bettles Lodge Winter Adventure

Hosted by Alaska Tours, the Bettles Lodge Winter Adventure is available January to March and August to December. This excursion includes two, three or four nights at this wilderness lodge about 35 miles north of the Arctic Circle. During the winter days, enjoy outdoor Arctic sports such as snowshoeing and cross-country skiing or stay warm indoors chatting with other guests at the Aurora Lodge. In the evenings, you can bundle up and head outside at one of the best places in Alaska to see the spectacle in the sky.

Prices include round-trip airfare between Fairbanks and Bettles, accommodations at the lodge, meals, a village tour and complimentary use of the Arctic gear (in season).

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Alaska Photo Treks: Anchorage Aurora Quest

Alaska Photo Treks offers one of the best ways to see the northern lights in Anchorage – and you'll even learn how best to photograph the aurora, which can be a challenge to capture digitally or on film. This experience, the Anchorage Aurora Quest, is available nightly (when conditions are right), typically from mid-August to mid-April. The approximately six-hour guided tour with a professional photographer explains the science behind the northern lights and provides photo tips for budding aurora photographers in a small-group format. Tourgoers are picked up from their hotel by the guide at about 10 p.m. and return around 4 a.m., though that time can vary based on the aurora forecast.

On the Alaska Photo Treks website, you'll find a list of recommended camera equipment to bring. If you're using a smartphone, the tour group suggests downloading an aurora app and bringing a tripod. The company also advises that you'll be outdoors for about two hours, so you need to dress appropriately for the weather. For the best aurora viewing, the guides usually travel between one to three locations within a 70-mile radius of Anchorage. If you're in town for an extended stay, Alaska Photo Treks also offers a four-day pass for even more nocturnal viewing of the auroral activity.

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Alaska Tours: Chena Hot Springs and Northern Lights

Chena Hot Springs Resort is known for its therapeutic waters and aurora-viewing opportunities. If you prefer to head out with a guide rather than on your own, book the Chena Hot Springs and Northern Lights tour with Alaska Tours. This package includes a four- to five-hour Aurora Expedition tour, four nights of accommodations, and access to resort amenities including cross-country skiing and snow machine tours.

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Alaska Wildlife Guide: Northern Lights and Chena Hot Springs

Day trips are also an option for those who'd like to enjoy the resort amenities and a chance at seeing the northern lights from Chena Hot Springs. This tour offered by Alaska Wildlife Guide includes admission to the hot springs and Aurora Ice Museum as well as pickup from local hotels. Recent travelers say the tour guides are top-notch.

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John Hall's Alaska: Alaska's Winter Wonders

For an extended land tour to chase the aurora – and experience Alaska's magical winter wonderland – book this bucket list eight-day adventure with John Hall's Alaska. The company's Alaska's Winter Wonders tour is offered in February and March; it features up to seven nights of northern lights viewing, as well as adventure-filled days with skiing, snowmobiling and snowshoeing. You'll also take an awe-inspiring flightseeing bush plane ride over Denali National Park, which includes a fly-by of the Foraker, Silverthorne, Hunter and Moose's Tooth peaks before landing on the Great Gorge of Ruth Glacier – the deepest in the world.

If that's not enough adventure, test your skills at dog mushing and curling or take an aerial tram ride. Travelers can also check out the local breweries or just sit back, relax and enjoy the spectacular views. Additional highlights include spending two evenings under the dancing night sky in one of the domed igloos at Borealis Basecamp, as well as aurora borealis photography lessons.

All-inclusive pricing covers accommodations, meals, luxury land and small plane transportation, fully guided service, gratuities, and baggage handling – plus a black subzero jacket to keep you warm during your Alaska adventure.

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Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi is an avid travel adventurer who fell in love with Alaska on her first visit to the state many years ago. She's returned several times on land trips and by ship for year-round outdoor adventure and to chase the northern lights in one of the best places on the planet to view them. She writes about the travel and culinary industries for a variety of major publications.

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