If you’re looking for a truly magical vacation experience, it’s hard to beat seeing the Northern Lights. These incredible natural phenomena are caused by particles from the sun colliding with the Earth’s atmosphere, producing an ethereal display of colors and shapes in the night sky.
But where can you go to see them? Here are some of the best destinations for Northern Lights viewing.
1. Iceland
Iceland is one of the most popular destinations for Northern Lights viewing, and for good reason. The country’s location near the Arctic Circle makes it an ideal spot to see the lights, and its rugged natural beauty only adds to the experience. Reykjavik is a great base for exploring Iceland’s many geothermal wonders during the day, then settling in for a night of Aurora watching.
2. Norway
Norway is another top destination for Northern Lights seekers, with several cities and towns offering guided tours and other experiences specifically designed around viewing them. Tromso is particularly popular, as it’s located in a prime spot within the Aurora Oval (a region where auroras are most likely to occur).
3. Finland
Finland is home to some of Europe’s last remaining wilderness areas, which means there are plenty of opportunities for unobstructed views of the Northern Lights. The town of Rovaniemi is one option that offers not only Aurora tours but also reindeer rides and visits with Santa Claus (who apparently likes to vacation in Lapland during his off-season).
4. Canada
Canada may not be as well-known as some other destinations on this list when it comes to Northern Lights viewing, but there are still plenty of places where you can catch them if you know where to look. Yellowknife in northern Canada is often touted as one of the best spots thanks to its clear skies and minimal light pollution.
5. Alaska
Finally, we have Alaska, which is another popular destination for Aurora chasers. Fairbanks is one of the top spots within the state for Northern Lights viewing, with tours departing regularly from the city.
No matter which destination you choose, remember that seeing the Northern Lights is never a guarantee. Weather conditions and solar activity can all impact your chances of catching a glimpse of this natural wonder. But with a little luck and some careful planning, you just might be able to witness one of the world’s most incredible sights.