- Gintaré Turskyté
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Tromsø, nestled in the heart of the Arctic Circle, is one of the world’s best places to witness the northern lights. From mid-September to the end of March, the city offers a chance to see this stunning natural phenomenon. However, keep in mind that the aurora is unpredictable. To catch the lights, three conditions must align: darkness, clear skies, and high solar activity. For the best chances, plan a stay of 5-7 days and book tours well in advance.
Northern Lights Spots Without a Car
Prestvannet
This peaceful lake, just a 20-minute walk from Tromsø city center, is a fantastic spot for aurora viewing. Surrounded by snow-covered trees, it offers a tranquil escape right on the island.
Fjellheisen
Take the cable car up the mountain for a panoramic view of Tromsø and its surroundings. On clear nights, you might see the northern lights dancing above the city. For a more secluded experience, hike to Fløya, a nearby peak, to escape artificial light.
Vardentoppen
Located on Tromsø island, Vardentoppen is a hilltop that provides a 360-degree view of the night sky. Follow the ski tracks and veer off the main path to find a quieter spot with minimal light pollution.
Aurora Husky Visit
For a unique experience, join our Aurora Husky Visit. Spend time with our friendly huskies, enjoy a warm dinner by the bonfire, and roast marshmallows under the Arctic sky. Located just 20 kilometers from Tromsø, our center offers minimal light pollution and a cozy atmosphere for aurora viewing. For an extended adventure, book Aurora Camp and Dog Sledding – stay overnight in a traditional lavvo and wake up to a morning of dog sledding.
Join an Aurora Chasing Tour
If the skies over Tromsø are cloudy, an aurora chasing tour can take you to clearer areas. Our partner, Polar Adventures, offers intimate Minibus Aurora Chases. With expert guides monitoring the weather, these tours increase your chances of seeing the lights.
For Those With a Car
Having a car allows for more flexibility, but Arctic driving requires caution. Always check the weather and road conditions, and wear warm clothing for the wait under the stars. Here are some top spots near Tromsø:
Ersfjordbotn
A 30-minute drive from Tromsø, this fjord is one of Norway’s most photographed locations. The surrounding mountains and open sky make it a perfect aurora-viewing spot.
Kattfjordeidet
Ten minutes from Ersfjordbotn, this valley offers stunning mountain views and zero light pollution. It’s a quiet, scenic spot to wait for the northern lights.
Grøtfjord
An hour’s drive takes you to Grøtfjord, a beach with expansive views of the ocean and sky. The journey itself is scenic, making the trip worthwhile even before the aurora appears.
Sommarøy
About an hour from Tromsø, Sommarøy is a picturesque destination with open beaches perfect for aurora viewing. Sandvika beach, in particular, provides a wide, unobstructed view of the night sky.
Direction Kilpisjärvi, Finland
If Tromsø’s skies are cloudy, heading inland toward Finland can be a good option. The drive to Kilpisjärvi, through the Lyngen Alps, often leads to clearer skies. Be prepared for colder temperatures and winding roads, and always prioritize safety.
A Final Note
The northern lights are a breathtaking experience, and the effort to see them is well worth it. Even if the aurora remains elusive, Tromsø offers plenty of activities to make your trip memorable. Check our website for more ideas, and happy aurora chasing!
