Why Finland is Your Top Destination for the Northern Lights

Contrary to popular belief, winter isn't prime viewing season for the Northern Lights. December to February turns Finland into a winter wonderland, which means plenty of snow, but also cloud cover from which it falls. This blocks the skies and obstructs views of the aurora borealis.

March stands out as a real gem, with clearer skies and less cloud cover for a dazzling view of the colorful lights. Autumn, especially in September and October, also offers an enchanting experience.

The vibrant fall foliage provides a striking backdrop for the Northern Lights' display of color. Green and yellow are the most visible colors dancing in the night sky when witnessing the aurora, but during heightened solar activity, you can even spot rare hues like pink and purple. September and October are considered the peak months for this phenomenon.

Rovaniemi

Rovaniemi is the capital of Finnish Lapland and offers a luxurious glimpse into the friendly Arctic experience. Situated in the Arctic Circle, it's an ideal base for hunting the Northern Lights. Its rich cultural heritage as the official hometown of Santa Claus extends into pristine nature, with hiking trails perfect for witnessing vibrant autumn foliage or a glistening winter wonderland.

Travel by husky sled in winter, relax in glass-roofed accommodations, or indulge in locally sourced cuisine that has earned Rovaniemi its reputation as the culinary capital of the North. You can quickly find why the destination is a great place to start your search for the Northern Lights, and even experience traditional Finnish saunas.

Kittilä

Nestled in the heart of Finnish Lapland, Kittilä offers a luxurious and authentic Arctic experience. This friendly municipality, located over 100 miles north of the Arctic Circle, boasts one of Finland's premier ski resorts. Imagine carving through powdery slopes by day and retreating to a cozy glass-roofed abode by night, the Northern Lights dancing overhead.

Beyond the ski trails, Kittilä invites you to immerse yourself in the great outdoors. Embark on a husky safari, gliding through pristine wilderness pulled by these majestic creatures; explore the nearby Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park, a breathtaking expanse of untamed beauty; or delve into the rich cultural tapestry woven by local artists whose works adorn galleries throughout the town.

Ivalo

Ivalo is an uncompromising escape into nature's rawest form. This unassuming village nestles deep in Finland's Lapland region within the Arctic Circle. Here, you'll find a remote paradise where disconnecting from the busy world comes naturally. Rather than luxury resorts, Ivalo offers rugged authenticity and untamed wilderness.

Simple pleasures like reindeer encounters, lakeside saunas, and stargazing unobscured by light pollution provide an immersion into the slower pace of life. Cozy cabins provide a base for exploration by husky sled, snowmobile, or guided trek. During the spring and autumn months, the village becomes a prime viewpoint for the Northern Lights, enveloping you in sublime silence or the rare hum associated with the dancing colors.

Experience Finland's Ruska

The autumn months in Finland bring with them a breathtaking natural spectacle known as ruska, when the leaves take on vibrant hues. As the forests transform into a combination of crimson, gold, and amber, you'll have the perfect daytime discovery to match the marvelous shifting colors of the Northern Lights come evening. Explore the great outdoors on a hiking trail, immersing yourself in the crunch of fallen leaves underfoot and the crisp, earthy aromas of fall.

Train with the Huskies

A husky experience is a quintessentially Finnish exploit. In autumn, before the snows arrive, you can participate in husky training sessions. While the dogs need snow to pull sleds, in the fall, you can ride alongside the team of adventurous and spirited animals as they sprint through the wilderness to prepare for the upcoming sledding season. It's an exhilarating way to connect with nature and Finland's rich husky culture.

Visit the Reindeer Farms

A trip to Finland is often associated with an up-close encounter with reindeer, and you can visit a traditional reindeer farm any time of year to learn about the pivotal role these gentle creatures play in Sámi culture. Rather than sledding, autumn offers a chance to feed the reindeer by hand and even join them on a leisurely woodland stroll for a truly unique bonding experience.

Enjoy the Lakes Before They Freeze

Finland's landscape is dotted with countless pristine lakes, and autumn presents a fleeting window to experience them before the winter freeze. Embrace the beauty of nature by gliding across glass-like waters in a canoe or kayak, surrounded by the fiery hues of the changing foliage. It's a serene escape from daily life, a chance to find inner peace amidst nature's tranquil beauty, and another demonstration of why Fins are often considered among the happiest people in the world.

Finland is the ultimate destination for an unforgettable Northern Lights experience, but the majestic landscape and culture offer much more than just a vessel through which to view the shifting colors.

From husky sledding and reindeer encounters to hiking amidst breathtaking fall foliage, Finland promises a feast for your senses. You can find more ideas on ways to enjoy your time with our Finland vacations and tours before speaking with a destination specialist who can help customize every detail of your trip.