The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are among the most mesmerizing natural phenomena in the world. But while the lights occur high in Earth’s atmosphere all year round, they are not always visible to the human eye. Timing your trip correctly can make the difference between going home with unforgettable memories or missing the spectacle altogether.
This guide explains the best time to see Northern lights, including the time of year, factors that influence visibility, and practical tips to help you plan your aurora adventure.
Best Time to See Northern Lights by Country
Iceland
Season: Late September to mid-April
Best months: February and March, when skies are clearer and temperatures less extreme
Conditions: Iceland’s weather is famously unpredictable. In one night, you may experience rain, snow, and clear skies. To increase your chances, plan a multi-day stay and consider booking guided tours that track forecasts in real time.
Norway
Season: Late September to early April
Best months: February and March
Conditions: Tromsø, known as the “Gateway to the Arctic,” is one of the most dependable places in the world for aurora sightings. From November to January, the polar night means almost 24 hours of darkness, offering many viewing opportunities — although cloudy weather can sometimes reduce visibility.
Finland
Season: Late August to early April
Best months: September, February, and March
Conditions: With up to 200 aurora nights per year, Finnish Lapland is one of the most reliable regions. Rovaniemi, Levi, and Saariselkä are excellent bases, and the chance to watch the aurora from a glass igloo makes Finland especially magical.
5 Ways to Increase Your Chances of Seeing the Northern Lights
- Stay at least 3–4 nights: Aurora activity varies daily, so a longer stay boosts your odds.
- Join a guided tour: Local guides use real-time Northern Lights forecasts and drive to clear-sky areas, giving you much better chances. → Choose the guided tour that suits you best and book now!
- Check forecasts: Use official sites like the Icelandic Meteorological Office, Finnish Meteorological Institute, and Norwegian Meteorological Institute. Check updated forecasts: Space Weather Conditions
- Head away from city lights: Rural areas, national parks, and fjords provide the darkest skies.
- Be prepared for the cold: Dress in layers, wear insulated boots and gloves, and bring hot drinks to stay comfortable during long nights outdoors.
Northern Lights Season Explained
The aurora is visible when skies are dark enough to contrast with the glow. In the Arctic, this means the Northern Lights season runs from late September to early April. During these months, nights are long and conditions are ideal for spotting the aurora borealis.
- The very best months are often October, February, and March. October still has relatively mild weather in some areas, while February and March balance long nights with clearer skies compared to mid-winter.
- The best hours of the night are usually from 9:00 PM until 2:00 AM, though activity can appear earlier in the evening or surprise you closer to dawn.
5 Factors That Influence the Aurora Borealis Visibility
- Solar Activity – The aurora depends on the solar wind. Peaks in the 11-year solar cycle mean more frequent and intense displays. The years 2024–2026 fall within a solar maximum, making them exceptional for travelers.
- Weather & Clouds – Clear skies are essential. Even strong aurora activity will be invisible under heavy clouds. Iceland tends to have fast-changing weather, Finland often enjoys clearer winter skies, and Northern Norway provides a mix.
- Moonlight – A bright full moon can wash out faint auroras but also adds drama to photos by illuminating the landscape. For vivid colors, a new moon is ideal.
- Light Pollution – City lights reduce visibility. Tours usually head to rural locations for darker skies and better contrast.
- Geography – Being under the auroral oval (the zone around the magnetic poles where auroras occur most often) gives countries like Iceland, Finland, and Norway an advantage over lower-latitude destinations.
Is It Possible to See Northern Lights Year-Round?
Technically, the Northern Lights are happening in the atmosphere every day of the year. However, to the human eye, they can only be seen when the sky is dark enough.
- Summer (May–July): Impossible in Arctic regions due to the Midnight Sun, when skies never get fully dark.
- Late August–April: Prime season, with long dark nights and higher chances of clear skies.
- Winter months: Offer the longest nights, though cloud cover can be a challenge.
So while auroras occur all year, in practice you can only see them during the dark winter season.
Northern Lights Forecast Each Month
August – Season begins in Finland and parts of Norway as nights grow darker.
September–October – Early auroras return, weather is milder, and autumn landscapes add beauty.
November–January – The polar night brings almost round-the-clock darkness in northern regions, though frequent clouds are common.
February–March – Peak months, with longer nights, clearer skies, and strong solar activity.
April – The season winds down, but sightings are still possible before daylight takes over.
May–July – Not visible in the Arctic because of constant daylight.
4 Tips for Planning Your Northern Lights Trip
- Be flexible with your schedule: the aurora doesn’t appear on demand. Conditions can change quickly, and patience is part of the experience. Many tours offer a free retry or rescheduled tour if you don’t spot the Northern Lights on your first night, giving you another chance to witness this spectacular show.
- Bring proper photography equipment: tripod, spare batteries, and a fast lens.
- Consider variety: try a bus chase one night, a husky sled ride or reindeer safari another, and maybe a stay in a glass igloo.
- Remember that the chase is part of the adventure — every night under Arctic skies is memorable, with or without the lights.
FAQ - About Best Time to See Northern Lights
What month is best to see the Northern Lights?
The Northern Lights are best viewed between late September and early April, with February and March offering particularly clear skies. Visit our Best Time to See the Northern Lights guide for detailed country-by-country insights.
What month is best to see the Northern Lights in Finland?
From late August to early April, with September, February, and March offering the best balance of darkness and clearer skies.
What are the best months to see the Northern Lights from Norway?
In Norway, the season runs from late September to early April. February and March are considered peak months for clear skies and long nights.
What month is best to see the Northern Lights in Iceland?
From late September to mid-April. Winter nights are long, though weather can be unpredictable.
→ Find out More Information About Northern Lights in Iceland