The Science Behind It

Charged particles from the sun travel toward Earth on the solar wind. The Earth’s magnetic field directs them towards the Polar Regions, where they collide with electrons in nitrogen and oxygen atoms, producing stunning colours in the sky—vivid greens, purples, and reds that dance across the night.

When Can You See the Aurora Borealis?

On dark, cloudless nights, the Northern Lights swirl and shimmer in the sky. The Aurora Borealis shines brightest near the Earth’s magnetic poles, particularly within the Arctic Circle. The best time to see them is from September to March, when nights are longest and skies are darkest.

Solar activity plays a crucial role, with the most dazzling displays occurring during peak solar cycles. For the best chance of seeing the Northern Lights, head to remote locations away from city lights, particularly during periods of high geomagnetic activity.

What Does ‘Aurora Borealis’ Mean?

The term Aurora Borealis was first used in 1621 by French astronomer and philosopher Pierre Gassendi. He named the phenomenon after ‘Aurora,’ the Roman goddess of dawn, who was believed to bring the first light of day, and ‘Boreas,’ the Greek name for the north wind. This poetic combination reflects both the radiant colours of the sky and its association with northern latitudes.

Where Can You See the Northern Lights?

You can see the Northern Lights in the polar region, which encircles the Earth north of the Arctic Circle. Many parts of Scandinavia fall within ‘The Aurora Belt.’

Our short breaks in Tromsø are ideal for Northern Lights hunting. This vibrant city has long been a centre for research into this incredible natural phenomenon. Other great destinations include Finland, Sweden, and Iceland, each offering a magical winter escape.

When Is the Best Time to take a Northern Lights Holiday:

The equinox periods at the end of September and in March are excellent for Northern Lights activity. However, dark winter nights from October onwards also provide ideal viewing conditions.

If you’d like to combine winter sports with your Northern Lights adventure, consider travelling from February onwards, when the days begin to lengthen. This is a fantastic time to experience Magnetic North while keeping an eye out for the Aurora Borealis.

Can You Guarantee I Will See Them?

Unfortunately, no one can guarantee a sighting. Many factors, including weather conditions and cloud cover, influence visibility. However, we’ll do our best to maximise your chances.

Our expert guides are highly skilled at tracking the best conditions, ensuring you’re in the right place at the right time. If you don’t see the Northern Lights on your first excursion, we can arrange an additional tour while you’re abroad.

Is This Experience Suitable for a Winter Honeymoon?

Absolutely! A Northern Lights honeymoon is a romantic and unforgettable experience. We can customise your honeymoon package to include a stay in a snow hotel, plus a variety of accommodation and activity options. For a unique wedding gift idea, we can arrange bookable experiences for your gift list—making your honeymoon even more special.

How Do I Photograph the Northern Lights?

Your guide is an expert in photographing the Northern Lights and will help you capture stunning memories. However, here are a few top tips:

Equipment:

Use a DSLR or mirrorless camera, a wide-angle f/2.8 lens, a tripod, and a remote shutter for stability.

⚙️ Settings:

ISO: 800–3200
Shutter Speed: 5–15 sec
Aperture: f/2.8 or lower
Focus: Manual, set to infinity (∞)

A Northern Lights holiday offers more than just a chance to witness one of nature’s most breathtaking phenomena—it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Arctic. Whether you’re seeking a romantic Northern Lights honeymoon or an unforgettable adventure, destinations like Tromsø and Finland provide the perfect backdrop for this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Ready to plan your own Northern Lights holiday? Let us help you create the perfect Arctic adventure. Explore our tailored itineraries and start your journey today—your unforgettable Northern Lights experience awaits!