Northern Lights Holidays

This winter and next are predicted to be the best aurora seasons in many years and with nearly 30 years of experience in arranging holidays to view the northern lights, we have put together a collection of dedicated itineraries created specially for those with a keen interest in viewing the aurora including the virtually cloud-free sky at Aurora Sky Station in Swedish Lapland, Hotel Ranga in south Iceland and Tromso in northern Norway.

SWEDEN | ICELAND | FINLAND | NORWAY

Where can I see the northern lights? / When is the best time to see the northern lights?

The northern lights are typically seen between the months of September and April in the skies above the Arctic and sub-Arctic regions, making Iceland, Sweden, Finland and Norway ideal locations. As such there are possibilities of witnessing the aurora borealis on any of our Nordic holidays during the winter months when the prevailing conditions are right - preferably under a clear, cloudless sky and away from artificial light. Displays can vary in intensity and duration, shape and form having no regulation, with each display totally unique. This natural phenomenon is both unpredictable and extraordinary!

Our Northern Lights Holidays

As well as providing excellent locations for viewing the northern lights, our collection of aurora itineraries offer a range of different and unique experiences, so pick the one that suits you best.

SWEDEN		ICELAND		FINLAND		NORWAY

Also Consider... You can also combine your search for the aurora with an extended holiday exploring Canada with our new itineraries based in the Yukon and Alberta let our team tailor-make a holiday for you. more» Or perhaps join an adventure cruise along Greenland's east coast and into Scoresby Sund. more» And don't forget, even if you've limited time in Iceland, you can book northern lights excursions to fit in with your stay, more »

Can't decide? Ask our experienced and knowledgable team

Call us or email travel@discover-the-world.co.uk.

About the Northern Lights

Mystery and wonder shroud the northern lights, otherwise known as the aurora borealis. Mesmerizing, stunning, other-worldly are just a few words used to describe the experience of watching this spectacular phenomenon. When conditions are favourable this fantastical display lights up the Arctic and sub-Arctic regions, leaving all who catch a glimpse of this magical wonder, memories that will last forever.

What are the northern lights?
The aurora borealis, or northern lights, appears when solar wind particles collide with air molecules in the earth’s atmosphere, transferring their energy into light. Displays can vary in intensity – from a glowing curtain of greenish yellow lights, dancing in the distance to a spectacular, multi-coloured fusion stretching across the sky – but whatever one you’re lucky enough to have, will no doubt make you want to see more.

However, it must be remembered that sightings of the northern lights can never be guaranteed, even when the conditions seem just right - a clear cloudless night is essential and for the most intense sightings, it is important to be away from any sources of artificial light, such as street lighting. Sightings not only vary in intensity but in duration too, from just minutes to sometimes hours.

Best time to see northern lights
Usually during the darkest period which is between November and February, although they can be seen as early as late August and as late as mid April. The strongest lights normally occur during October and November and February and March and between 9pm and 1am. However, the phases of the moon also have an affect. The Northern lights are a natural phenomena and sightings cannot be guaranteed, but to maximise the chances of seeing them, it is best to be away from towns and areas with light pollution. It is often mentioned that full moon should be avoided due to higher light concentration, however it is one of the most magical experiences to see the full moon together with the northern lights dancing across the sky. During a new moon the sky is slightly darker, but it is very much a matter of personal opinion, which of these sightings is the best.

2012-2013 - Solar Maximum
We are now in the period which is described by some scientists as Solar Maximum (or Solar Max). This means that sunspot activity is at its height. The sunspots produce solar flares which when they hit the earth’s atmosphere, create the northern and southern lights. The Solar Maximum happens about every 11 years.
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Northern Lights Photography Tips
1) A sturdy and preferably heavy tripod is essential since exposure time exceeds 10 - 20 seconds. you cannot achieve the best results hand-holding your camera.
2) Bring the fastest wide angle lens you own, f2.8 is good enough, f2.4 is better and f1.4 is best
3) Use a good digital camera or film camera with at least 400 asa film.
4) Wear warm clothes and boots as you can spend several hours standing still in cold weather. It is better to be overdressed.

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