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.

Holidays to see the northern lights

We have put together three specialist itineraries created for those with a keen interest in viewing this spectacular phenonemon. These are based at two locations with a reputation for very good displays of the aurora borealis, including Abisko Mountain Station in Swedish Lapland, regarded as one of the best observatories in the world. 

TOP RECOMMENDATIONS

Northern Lights and the Icehotel, Swedish Lapland
3/4 nights
This tantalising short break offers superb chances of witnessing the northern lights from Abisko Mountain Station, regarded as one of the best places in the world to observe this natural phenomena, due to its clear air and virtually cloud-free sky. Located in the heart of Swedish Lapland deep within the Arctic Circle you also spend 2 nights at the magnificent ICEHOTEL. 

Aurora Nights, Iceland 
3 nights
Based at a wonderful rural location in Iceland's South West under vast open skies it isn’t surprising that Hotel Ranga is blessed with some truly amazing displays of the northern lights during the months of September to March. On this independent short break learn about this amazing phenomenon and hopefully witness it for yourself.

Northern Lights Special, Iceland
3 nights
On this escorted short break in Iceland’s south the odds of a sighting are good with the help of a fantastic rural location and some scientific know how. Departure dates have been specially chosen to coincide with the new moon as this offers the best chance of the brightest aurora borealis.

In addition to our specialist northern lights holidays, it is possible to witness the aurora on any of our itineraries to Iceland, Greenland and Lapland during the winter months, including tailor made holidays. Therefore you can combine aurora hunting with a relaxing winter escape or a adventure filled weekend away.

Other favourite picks:
Aurora Retreat, Iceland »
Northern Highlights, Iceland »
Log Cabins and Igloos, Finnish Lapland »
Log Cabins and Spa Hotel, Finnish Lapland »
The Icehotel Break, Swedish Lapland »
Husky Adventure, Swedish Lapland »

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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.

Where is the best place to view the northern lights?

Although the northern lights can at times be seen as far south as the UK, you really need to travel north and visit such places as Iceland, Lapland, Canada and Greenland during the darkest months of November to March for the best opportunities possible. Potentially though, nature’s own light show can be seen in October and March. Two locations considered some of the best in the world to view the northern lights include the virtually cloud-free sky at Abisko Mountain Station, situated within the Abisko National Park in Swedish Lapland, and Hotel Ranga in south Iceland.

When is the best time to see the 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. However, the phases of the moon also have an affect. If you have a full moon then it can greatly detract from the spectacle, whereas around the time of the new moon, if sightings are possible then they should be at their best.

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.