Seven enchanting locations to witness the mesmerizing auroras

The aurora borealis, or northern lights, are a captivating natural phenomenon that can be best observed in certain locations around the world. These locations combine high magnetic latitude (close to or within the Arctic Circle), low light pollution, and the aurora season typically spanning from fall to early spring (late September to April).

Prime Aurora Viewing Spots

Tromsø, Norway

Situated in the heart of the auroral oval, Tromsø offers frequent aurora activity with good accessibility, tour infrastructure, and a relatively mild coastal climate.

Fairbanks, Alaska, USA

Just below the Arctic Circle, Fairbanks has some of the most consistent aurora nights (over 100 per year) coupled with excellent infrastructure and dark skies.

Greenland

Towns like Ilulissat and Kangerlussuaq in the Arctic Circle offer vast open landscapes and minimal light pollution, providing excellent aurora viewing conditions.

Iceland

Regions like the Westfjords and North Iceland offer dark skies and unique natural backdrops, with accessible spots near Reykjavík such as Thingvellir National Park and Reykjanes Peninsula also popular.

Northern Canada (Yukon & Northwest Territories)

Cities like Whitehorse and Yellowknife are renowned for raw northern beauty and clear, dark skies ideal for auroras.

Aurora Season and Weather

The best time to visit these locations is during the aurora season, which spans from late September to April. Clear weather is essential, and local microclimate knowledge (often provided by tour guides) can help find the clearest skies.

Additional Notes

Aurora visibility depends on solar activity; during strong solar storms, the aurora can be visible at lower latitudes but is best near the poles.
Avoiding light pollution is critical; many top sites are in designated International Dark Sky Places or remote areas.
The best viewing time is generally between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. local time.
Planning to spend several nights in a location increases chances because auroras are unpredictable and weather can obscure viewing.

In summary, accessible prime aurora viewing locations combine high magnetic latitude (inside or near the Arctic Circle), dark skies with minimal light pollution, and peak aurora season (Sept–April). Norway (Tromsø), Alaska (Fairbanks), Greenland, Iceland, and northern Canada stand out as top choices meeting these criteria.

Other popular aurora viewing locations in Norway include the Lofoten Islands, Alta, Nordkapp, and Kirkenes. The best time to view the northern lights in Greenland is from mid-August to late April in the south and late August to mid-April in Nuuk. Mid-August to late April is the best time to visit Yellowknife, Canada for viewing the northern lights. For Churchill and Wood Buffalo, early August to early May is the best time. Late August to early April is the best time to visit Iceland for viewing the northern lights. The autumnal equinox in September is a good time to view the northern lights due to pleasant temperatures in polar latitudes.

For those seeking to witness the aurora australis, or southern lights, Tasmania and New Zealand's southern tips offer the best chances for year-round viewing, with dark skies helping to see any active auroras over the southern horizon. The best time to view the aurora australis near equinoxes.

Antarctica, particularly the coastal areas with minimal light pollution, provides a unique opportunity for observing the aurora australis, the southern counterpart of the northern lights.
Despite not being traditional aurora viewing locations, travelers interested in space-and-astronomy and environmental-science can also witness volcanoes and glaciers while pursuing their stargazing ambitions.
Adopting an eco-conscious lifestyle during this travel experience aids in preserving the fragile environments surrounding these natural wonders, ensuring they remain accessible for future generations.
Further south, photography enthusiasts have the chance to capture the brilliant lights dancing across the skies of Tasmania and New Zealand's southern tips.
For a more diverse travel itinerary that includes both auroras and non-polar destinations, visiting Earth's varied landscapes provides a harmonious blend of adventure, science, and picturesque lifestyle experiences.
By taking into account factors such as solar activity, local microclimates, and best-viewing hours, travelers can maximize their chances of witnessing the captivating auroras in their full glory during their journey.