Witness nature’s greatest light show: The magic of Northern Lights holidays

Whether a seasoned traveller or just starting out on new adventures, Northern Lights holidays offer an awe-inspiring display of nature’s greatest light show. From the traditional aurora borealis to stunning night sky displays, there is something magical waiting for everyone in this captivating region of the world.

For anyone wondering just how they can get started with experiencing this natural wonder, planning a trip to the area requires some careful consideration – so here’s the ultimate guide to help.

What are the Northern Lights?

The Northern Lights, also known as the aurora borealis, are a natural phenomenon that occurs when electrically charged particles from the sun interact with the Earth’s atmosphere.

The result is an ever-changing light show of swirling colours and patterns that paint the night sky in hues of green, yellow, pink and blue. Depending on where one views them from, this cosmic display can be faint or vivid, and can even appear as a rapidly moving curtain of light across the sky.

How to enjoy the ultimate Northern Lights holiday

So, just how can one make the best of magical holidays to the Northern Lights in Finland or one of the nearby regions?

• Pick a place

The first thing to do when planning a Northern Lights holiday is decide where to go. While the aurora borealis can be seen in many countries, some places are known for their particularly strong and frequent displays. The most popular places to view the Northern Lights are typically located in Finland, Norway, Iceland, Greenland and Alaska.

• Choose a time of year

The time of year will have a big impact on the likelihood of seeing the Northern Lights. The best time to see them is during winter when there are long hours of darkness and clear skies. Depending on where one goes, peak viewing times can vary from late August to early April.

• Choose an activity

Once the destination and time of year for the trip are decided, it’s time to start thinking about activities. Northern Lights holidays can involve further activities ranging from visiting museums and galleries to dining in award-winning restaurants, and even taking part in some of the many outdoor activities on offer, such as snowmobiling, dog sledding, or skiing.

• Find unique accommodation

It’s time to find some unique accommodation – and there is a whole host of choices available. Why not opt for a traditional log cabin or a luxury eco-lodge? For those who prefer something more modern, there are plenty of hotels and resorts that offer all the amenities needed for a Northern Lights holiday.

Alternatively, this could be a chance to really soak in the natural beauty of the area. There are plenty of camping and glamping options available in some of the most breathtaking settings, or visitors could go for an authentic, unforgettable experience with an igloo stay.

• Prepare for the trip

Once the dream Northern Lights holiday is booked, getting ready for the trip is next. If staying in a cold climate, it’s important to make sure to pack plenty of warm clothing and boots. It also makes sense to be aware of the potential hazards of being outdoors in the dark – so it’s worth bringing along a torch and getting to know the area before venturing out at night unguided.

• Capture the moment

Those lucky enough to witness the Northern Lights mustn’t forget to take pictures! Whether it’s with a smartphone or DSLR camera, capturing this incredible sight will be a moment to treasure forever. People using smartphone cameras should make sure to have the flash switched off and set the exposure manually, as auto settings can sometimes overexpose the shot.

• Be patient

Holidayers should be prepared for long hours of waiting, as it may not always be possible to witness the Northern Lights on a first night in the location. It is important to be patient and bring along some warm clothes and snacks to keep comfortable until the show starts.

Conclusion

Witnessing the Northern Lights is truly an unforgettable experience, and with a little bit of planning and preparation, it could be one of life’s most memorable holidays ever. So why wait? 

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