An aurora borealis is a stunning natural phenomenon that occurs in the polar regions of our planet. It is a luminous spectacle in the night sky, where you can see beautiful colored lights dancing on the horizon. There are many ways to learn to plan a trip to the northern lights to see this magical spectacle of nature.
In this article we are going to teach you some of the best tips for planning a trip to the northern lights that you should keep in mind.
How the northern lights are formed
To understand how an aurora borealis occurs, we must first keep in mind that the Earth is surrounded by a magnetic field. This magnetic field protects our planet from charged particles emanating from the Sun, known as solar wind. However, some of these particles manage to enter the Earth's atmosphere along the polar regions.
When these particles collide with atoms and Molecules in the upper atmosphere, especially oxygen and nitrogen, release energy in the form of light. These collisions generate the characteristic colors of the northern lights, which are usually green, pink, violet and blue. The variation in colors depends on the type of gas present in the atmosphere and the altitude at which the collisions occur.
This is why it's a phenomenon that depends heavily on nature. Even if you travel during the most common season, no one can guarantee that you'll be able to see it. You can also learn more about how The Earth's magnetic field generates the aurora borealis.
When to see
The northern lights can be seen between September and April, but it is important to keep the following in mind:
- March and October. This is the busiest month of the year and the weather is on our side. Snowfall and storms are less intense or just beginning, so the barriers to viewing the show are significantly reduced.
- February and September. It is a very good month with quite intense activity and good weather.
- November, December and January. There is a little less activity than other months and the weather causes some discomfort due to snowfall. The cold was also very intense.
- April. It is possible to see them this month, but as it is the last month of the season, activity is low and with the arrival of spring and the sun, sightings are greatly reduced.
So, what month is best to see the Northern Lights in Norway? March and October are the best months to see the Northern Lights, as the activity is intense and the cold is more tolerable. To see the bright Northern Lights, you must cross the Arctic Circle, so point your compass and map notes north. For more details on the history of this phenomenon, you can research when there was a Northern Lights in Spain.
Trip to the Northern Lights
Here are the best cities to see the Northern Lights:
- Tomso. This is the preferred destination to see the Northern Lights. Tromso is one of the largest cities in northern Norway; young and modern, but without losing the natural charm that prevails throughout the country. If you have time, you can go fishing, whale watching and visit small towns in Finland.
- Svalbard Islands. Fjords, glaciers, mountains, polar bears and the wonderful northern lights. This is the only place in the world where you can see the dance of the Northern Lights during the day, as there is no sunlight during winter at this time on Earth. The largest seed vault in the world is located here, known as the end of the world vault.
- North Cape. This is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. This place is the northernmost point of Europe and its territory is divided between Norway and Finland.
- Lofoten Islands. Famous for its cod fishing and typical fishing huts, Lofoten has preserved its wild nature and is an ideal setting for viewing the Northern Lights.
How to see the northern lights in Norway?
Despite being one of Norway's low-cost airlines, the quality of their service is excellent and flying with them is truly a very pleasant experience. After arriving in the capital of Norway (Oslo) we can travel to any of the places already mentioned by:
- Air. This is the most recommended and cheapest way to find local flights from Oslo with SAS and Norwegian Air. By booking in advance you can find flights from €60 round trip.
- Land. There are roads that cross the entire country, but it is not recommended. Firstly because it may take several days to reach northern Norway and secondly because of the weather. The weather in winter is very unstable and the roads are suddenly closed. Driving in such conditions requires great driving skills.
- Water. It can be reached by cruise ship or boat from the city of Bergen, but it can be very expensive and time is also a factor. The ship operates like a cruise ship and stops at some of the top spots where you can see the Northern Lights.
How much does it cost?
Norway is expensive, but don't be scared, there are always ways to save money when traveling and this Scandinavian country is no exception. There is a budget for all budgets and the amount you spend depends entirely on your tastes and possibilities.
The simplest tours start at €90 per person and include only one tour or walk to look for the Northern Lights.
From this price range we jump to 150 – 190 euros per person for a slightly more detailed tour that includes a trip to see the Aurora, special warm clothing to be able to move around and enjoy extreme temperatures, special footwear, bonfire, chocolates, cookies, or Sandwich, photography tripod and/or camera.
There are also all-inclusive tours that give you the opportunity to experience the Arctic. These packages offer accommodation with glass ceilings, photography walks, northern lights safari, warm clothing, photographs, guides and other details for about €300 per night.
From this base, prices continue to rise and the activities and accommodations offered vary. Here are some important questions to consider regarding Northern Lights viewing prices and tour groups:
- The northern lights are free. Heaven charges nothing for this spectacle. However, you have to get out of town and get as far away from the city lights as possible to appreciate them, which is why many people choose to pay to join the tours mentioned above.
- Prices may vary depending on the time of year and especially the location. For example, a trip to Svalwald may cost 3 times more than Tromso, but the experience is completely different.
- There is no guarantee that you will see the Northern Lights. Even if they tell you otherwise: the thing is simple, the northern lights are a product of nature and no one can control them except nature.
- Regarding the specialized cold weather equipment included in the tour. In some places, like Svalbard, equipment is essential because your life, the integrity and the health of your limbs depend on it.
I hope that with this information you can learn more about how to plan a trip to the northern lights and what aspects you should take into account.