Aurora Borealis in Norway
The Aurora Borealis, better known as the Northern Lights, is a natural phenomenon that occurs when solar particles interact with the atmosphere in the Earth's magnetic field. This releases energy, creating peculiar luminous green streaks across the sky that can be complemented by large expanses full of beautiful pillars of light and even moving shapes in green but depending on the strength also in other colors such as purple or pink. Northern Norway, with deep fjords, steep mountains and especially many quiet places without light pollution, is a popular place to admire the northern lights.
Best time and place
The best time to see the Northern Lights in Norway is from mid-August to early April. Your best chances are during the dark winter months, especially from November through February. Tromsø and the Lofoten are popular destinations for viewing the aurora borealis, as they are far removed from light pollution. The unique landscapes of Svalbard —filled with glaciers, icy coastlines, and mountain ranges—also make for a fantastic place to witness the Northern Lights.
When the sky is clear, you can hunt for the northern lights with local guides after dark: they know the best locations and conditions to see this natural phenomenon. Experience the northern lights from a unique place such as, for example, The Lighthouse on the coast or from an igloo in the wilderness at Sorrisniva, admire the magical fjords or discover the winter landscape by snowmobile or husky sled.
