How to See the Northern Lights in Finland: Best Locations & Tips
Finland is one of the best places in the world to witness the magical Northern Lights in Finland, or Aurora Borealis. With its pristine wilderness, dark skies, and optimal positioning within the Arctic Circle, Finland offers a high chance of spotting this spectacular natural phenomenon. Whether you’re planning a trip to Lapland or hoping to see the auroras from Helsinki, this guide will help you find the best locations, optimal times, and essential tips to maximize your chances of witnessing the Northern Lights.
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Why See the Northern Lights in Finland?
Finland is known for its vast, unpolluted landscapes, making it an ideal destination for viewing the auroras. Here’s why Finland stands out:
High Probability: The Northern Lights appear in Finnish Lapland about 200 nights per year (every other clear night).
Dark Skies: Minimal light pollution ensures excellent visibility.
Unique Viewing Experiences: From glass igloos to wilderness cabins, Finland offers some of the world’s best aurora accommodations.
Winter Wonderland: The Northern Lights pair beautifully with snow-covered landscapes, reindeer safaris, and ice hotels.
Best Time to See the Northern Lights in Finland
The aurora borealis is most visible during the dark winter months, but timing is crucial:
1. Best Months:
September to April – The peak season for Northern Lights in Finland.
December to February – Ideal for combining aurora hunting with winter activities.
March & September Equinoxes – Statistically, auroras are more active during equinoxes due to geomagnetic activity.
2. Best Time of Night:
9 PM to 2 AM – This is when geomagnetic activity is at its highest.
Dark Hours – Avoid moonlit nights for better visibility.
3. Best Weather Conditions:
Clear Skies – Cloudy nights obscure the lights.
Cold, Dry Air – Ideal for sharp, vibrant displays.
Best Locations to See the Northern Lights in Finland
Finland offers many breathtaking spots for aurora hunting. Here are some of the best locations:
1. Rovaniemi – Gateway to Lapland
Why? Easily accessible with an airport, yet far enough from city lights.
Best Spots: Ounasvaara Hill, Arctic SnowHotel, and nearby forests.
Bonus: Visit Santa Claus Village while you’re there!
2. Levi – Best for Luxury Aurora Viewing
Why? A top ski resort with luxury accommodations.
Best Spots: Lake Immeljärvi, Levi Tunturi, and aurora cabins.
Bonus: Enjoy skiing and spa experiences.
3. Saariselkä – Home to Glass Igloos
Why? Offers famous glass igloos at Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort.
Best Spots: Kiilopää Fell, Urho Kekkonen National Park.
Bonus: Combine aurora hunting with a husky safari!
4. Kilpisjärvi – Highest Probability of Northern Lights
Why? Located far north with minimal light pollution.
Best Spots: Saana Fell, frozen lakes.
Bonus: Experience Arctic wilderness in its purest form.
5. Inari – Perfect for Culture & Aurora
Why? Home to indigenous Sámi culture and remote viewing spots.
Best Spots: Lake Inari, Ukonkivi Island.
Bonus: Learn about Sámi traditions at Siida Museum.
6. Utsjoki – The Northernmost Tip of Finland
Why? One of Finland’s darkest and quietest places.
Best Spots: Kevo Strict Nature Reserve, Teno River.
Bonus: You might see the auroras reflected in the river!
7. Pyhä-Luosto National Park – Wilderness & Adventure
Why? A stunning national park with easy access.
Best Spots: Pyhä Fell, Luosto Tunturi.
Bonus: Try snowshoeing under the auroras!
How to Maximize Your Chances of Seeing the Northern Lights
Even in prime locations, aurora sightings are never guaranteed. Here are some expert tips:
1. Check the Aurora Forecast
Websites like Aurora Service and apps like My Aurora Forecast provide real-time aurora predictions.
Look for KP index values of 3 or higher for stronger displays.
2. Choose a Dark Location
Get at least 10-20 km away from city lights.
National parks, lakesides, and fells offer the best visibility.
3. Be Patient & Stay Outside
The auroras can appear suddenly, so be ready to wait.
Bring warm clothing (thermal layers, gloves, hats).
4. Avoid Full Moon Nights
Bright moonlight can reduce the contrast of the auroras.
5. Consider a Guided Tour
Local guides know the best secret spots.
Snowmobile or reindeer sled tours add an unforgettable adventure.
Best Aurora Accommodations in Finland
For a once-in-a-lifetime experience, stay in unique Northern Lights accommodations:
1. Glass Igloos & Domes
Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort (Saariselkä)
Levin Iglut – Golden Crown (Levi)
Arctic SnowHotel & Glass Igloos (Rovaniemi)
2. Aurora Cabins & Wilderness Lodges
Wilderness Hotel Muotka (Saariselkä)
Apukka Resort (Rovaniemi)
Arctic TreeHouse Hotel (Rovaniemi)
3. Budget-Friendly Options
Hostels & cabins near national parks
Camping under the stars (if well-prepared for extreme cold!)
Photographing the Northern Lights in Finland
Want to capture the perfect shot? Here’s how:
1. Use a Tripod
Prevents camera shake for long exposure shots.
2. Adjust Camera Settings
Manual mode: Set ISO (800-3200), aperture (f/2.8 or lower), and shutter speed (5-30 sec).
Focus to infinity for sharp images.
3. Avoid Light Pollution
Move away from artificial lights.
4. Use a Wide-Angle Lens
Captures more of the night sky.
5. Bring Extra Batteries
Cold temperatures drain batteries quickly.
Other Winter Activities to Combine with Aurora Hunting
Make the most of your trip with these winter activities:
Reindeer & Husky Safaris – Ride through snowy forests.
Snowshoeing & Cross-Country Skiing – Explore untouched nature.
Ice Fishing & Ice Hotels – Unique Arctic experiences.
Sauna & Ice Swimming – A true Finnish tradition!
Final Thoughts
Seeing the Northern Lights in Finland is a bucket-list experience. By choosing the right location, timing your visit well, and preparing properly, you’ll maximize your chances of witnessing this breathtaking phenomenon. Whether you stay in a glass igloo, embark on a guided aurora hunt, or explore Lapland’s snowy wilderness, your trip to Finland is sure to be unforgettable.
