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Chasing the Northern Lights in Finland: Best Spots and Tips

Chasing the Northern Lights in Finland is a magical experience, and the country offers some of the best spots to witness this incredible natural phenomenon. Here are the top locations and some useful tips to help you make the most of your Northern Lights adventure:

Best Spots to See the Northern Lights in Finland:

  1. Rovaniemi (Lapland):
    • The capital of Lapland, Rovaniemi is located just below the Arctic Circle and is one of the most popular destinations for Northern Lights viewing. The surrounding wilderness offers great opportunities to spot the aurora, especially during winter months.
    • Best Time: September to March.
  2. Levi (Lapland):
    • Levi is a ski resort known for its wide-open skies and dark, pollution-free environment, making it an excellent location for Northern Lights hunting. You can also enjoy other winter activities like skiing and snowboarding.
    • Best Time: October to March.
  3. Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort (Saariselkä):
    • Famous for its glass igloos, Kakslauttanen offers an unforgettable experience of watching the Northern Lights from the comfort of your warm, cozy igloo. It’s located in the far north of Finland, where the auroras are visible frequently.
    • Best Time: September to March.
  4. Inari (Lapland):
    • Inari, located in the northernmost part of Finland, offers a peaceful and remote location to witness the Northern Lights. The area is less touristy, providing a more serene and authentic experience.
    • Best Time: September to March.
  5. Utsjoki (Lapland):
    • Utsjoki is the northernmost village in Finland and offers some of the most spectacular views of the Northern Lights. It’s located above the Arctic Circle, ensuring frequent aurora sightings.
    • Best Time: September to March.
  6. Muonio (Lapland):
    • Situated on the border of Finland and Sweden, Muonio is another excellent location for Northern Lights viewing. The remote location, far from city lights, ensures minimal light pollution.
    • Best Time: September to March.
  7. Saariselkä:
    • Saariselkä offers a unique experience with its vast wilderness, and its location in the far north provides great chances of seeing the Northern Lights. The area also offers plenty of winter activities like husky safaris and snowshoeing.
    • Best Time: October to March.

Tips for Chasing the Northern Lights:

  1. Check the Aurora Forecast:
    • The Northern Lights are not visible every night, so it’s essential to check the aurora forecast before heading out. Websites and apps like Aurora Service or Finnish Meteorological Institute provide real-time aurora predictions.
  2. Go to Dark Locations:
    • To get the best view of the Northern Lights, you need to be away from artificial light sources. The further north you go, the better your chances. Remote areas, such as national parks or wilderness resorts, offer the best visibility.
  3. Time It Right:
    • The best time to see the Northern Lights in Finland is between September and March, with the peak season being from December to February. The lights are most visible between 9 p.m. and 2 a.m.
  4. Stay Warm:
    • Temperatures in northern Finland can drop significantly, especially in winter. Dress in layers, wear thermal clothing, and bring gloves, hats, and warm boots to ensure you stay comfortable while waiting for the aurora.
  5. Be Patient:
    • The Northern Lights can be elusive, so it’s important to be patient. It may take several hours of waiting before they appear, but the experience is well worth it.
  6. Use a Camera with Manual Settings:
    • To capture the Northern Lights, use a camera with manual settings. Set a long exposure time (10-20 seconds), a low ISO (around 800), and a wide aperture (f/2.8 or lower). A tripod is essential to keep the camera steady.
  7. Book a Northern Lights Tour:
    • If you want to increase your chances of seeing the Northern Lights, consider booking a guided tour. Many local operators offer trips to the best viewing spots, and some even provide photography tips.

By visiting these incredible spots and following these tips, you’ll have a great chance of experiencing the awe-inspiring Northern Lights in Finland.