Northern Lights – Your guide to Tromsø, Norway

The Northern Lights, also known as Aurora Borealis, mesmerize audiences with their magical dance across the Arctic skies. Nestled in the northern reaches of Norway, Tromsø stands out as one of Earth’s prime locations to witness this awe-inspiring phenomenon. But what exactly are the Northern Lights, and what makes Tromsø such a hotspot for aurora enthusiasts?

What Are Northern Lights?

Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon characterized by colorful displays of light in the Earth’s sky, predominantly observed in regions near the Arctic Circle. These mesmerizing light shows occur when charged particles from the sun collide with gases in the Earth’s atmosphere, typically around 60 to 200 miles above the Earth’s surface.

When these charged particles interact with gases such as oxygen and nitrogen, they emit light of varying colors, including shades of green, pink, purple, and occasionally red or blue. The specific colors produced depend on the type of gas particles involved in the collision and the altitude at which the collisions occur.

Where Can You See Them?

Northern Lights can be seen in regions close to the Arctic Circle, primarily in countries located in the northern hemisphere. Some of the best places to see the Northern Lights include:

1. Tromsø, Norway, offers prime Aurora viewing from late September to early April.
2. Iceland: peak viewing is October to March.
3. Sweden: peak viewing is from September to March.
4. Finland: Lapland, Rovaniemi and Levi are best from late September to early April.
5. Canada‘s best from late August to early April.
6. Alaska‘s peak is late August to mid-April.
7. Russia‘s peak is September to March.
8. In Greenland, peak viewing is from September to April.

Keep in mind, Aurora sightings depend on solar activity, weather, and darkness of the night sky. It’s always a good idea to check local Aurora forecasts and plan your visit accordingly for the best chance of witnessing this spectacular natural phenomenon.

Tromsø: A Gateway to Auroral Bliss

In this article, we will focus on experiencing the northern lights in Tromsø. This city located in northern Norway, nestled within the auroral oval, offers prime conditions for Northern Lights viewing with minimal light pollution. Accessible by air, Tromsø provides diverse options for Aurora experiences, from guided wilderness tours to boat excursions. With a viewing season spanning late September to early April, visitors have ample opportunities to witness the celestial spectacle against Arctic landscapes. Modern amenities and cultural activities enhance the Aurora watching experience, making Tromsø an ideal destination for travelers seeking the magic of the Northern Lights.

• Getting to Tromsø?
  
  For international travellers, the most common route is to fly into Tromsø Airport from major European hubs such as Frankfurt, Oslo, Stockholm, Copenhagen, Amsterdam, or Helsinki. Airlines like Norwegian, SAS, Wideroe, and Finnair offer international flights to Tromsø.
  
  From Frankfurt, you can get an economy SAS flight to Tromsø with only 10,000 EuroBonus points, at the time of writing.
  
  
• Where do I stay?
  
  Hotel options with points include the Radisson Blu Hotel Tromsø. Other than that you have a bunch of AirBnBs, or hostels available that you can book as per your convenience. Note: The prices during the winter times are very expensive so it’s recommended to book the trip well in advance.

How do I make sure I see the northern lights?

You can’t ensure seeing the Northern Lights, but you can maximize your chances with these proactive steps:

1. Visit during peak season: late September to early April.
2. Stay for multiple nights: 3-4 days should be enough if you plan it right.
3. Monitor Aurora Forecasts: Keep an eye on Aurora forecasts and space weather predictions leading up to your trip. Websites like the Norwegian Meteorological Institute and space weather forecasting services provide updates on auroral activity levels and cloud cover, helping you plan your viewing sessions accordingly.
4. Book a northern lights tour: If it’s your first time, it’s better to book a tour and leave the chase to the professionals. They have contacts with different companies looking for Aurora activities and they communicate with each other so that everyone benefits.
5. Be Patient and Flexible: Seeing the Northern Lights requires patience and luck. Be prepared to spend several hours outdoors in cold temperatures, and don’t be discouraged if the Aurora doesn’t appear right away. Stay flexible and be willing to adjust your schedule based on weather conditions and auroral activity forecasts.

Book a Tour, you said?

Tromsø offers diverse Aurora tours: bus ride chase, cruise, or mini bus tours for optimal Northern Lights viewing. All of them are equally good at finding the aurora activities. In our case, the mini bus tour provided the best deal for the buck.

Here are some links for the above mentioned tours: Bus tour, Cruise Tour, Mini Bus Tour. Keep in mind that these tours are generally expensive (typically 90 – 130€ per person), but if you’re going there for the first time, it’s better to book multiple tours to maximize your chances of seeing the aurora. Tip: There are some tours that also provide a free (or 50% off) second chance if you don’t see the Northern Lights in the first go. Consider booking them!

Dos and Don’ts for Aurora Chasers

If you’re embarking on a Northern Lights adventure in Tromsø, here are some essential dos and don’ts to ensure a memorable and responsible experience:

Do:

1. Check the Forecast: Keep an eye on aurora forecasts to maximize your chances of seeing the Northern Lights during periods of high activity.
2. Dress Warmly: Tromsø’s winters are cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Layer up with insulated clothing, hats, gloves, and sturdy boots to stay warm while chasing the aurora.
3. Stay Patient: Nature operates on its own schedule. Be prepared to wait for the Northern Lights to make their appearance, as they can be unpredictable.

Don’t:

1. Expect Guarantees: While Tromsø offers excellent opportunities for aurora viewing, sightings are never guaranteed. Manage your expectations and embrace the experience, regardless of whether you see the lights.
2. Disrupt the Environment: Respect the natural surroundings and wildlife. Avoid littering, disturbing wildlife, or venturing off designated paths during your aurora expedition.
3. Use Flash Photography: Flash photography can disrupt the experience for others and diminish the natural beauty of the Northern Lights. Instead, opt for long-exposure shots to capture the aurora’s mesmerizing dance.

Here’s another picture of our own beautiful experience 🙂

In conclusion, Tromsø stands as a beacon for aurora enthusiasts. It offers unparalleled opportunities for witness the northern lights in all their splendor. Its prime location within the auroral oval provides unforgettable setting for experiencing nature’s most enchanting light show. So bundle up, keep your eyes on the sky, and prepare to be dazzled by the magic of the Northern Lights in Tromsø.