Best Time to See the Northern Lights in Norway

The Northern Lights in Norway consistently appear at the top of every traveller’s to-do list. Never before has anything quite like this green, pink and violet waves in the sky been seen on Earth. Norway is an excellent place to see this event because of its Arctic areas and clear skies, especially near the north. 

When you plan a tour to watch the Northern Lights, you need to consider when and how to prepare as much as you think about flying. To really enjoy such an incredible trip, knowing when to go, where to visit and how to spend your days is very important. Before you organize your bags and apply for a Norway Visa, read over this guide for a few minutes. We’ll let you in on the best times to be in Iceland and professional tips to help you see the Northern Lights. 

Here are the Best Time to See the Northern Lights in Norway 

1. September to October: A Quiet and Scenic Start 

The season for the Northern Lights starts in late September and during these early days, it’s less cold and less busy. Bright autumn colors fill the scenery and offer the most beautiful view for your aurora sightings. Even if the chances aren’t as high as in deep winter, you’ve got a good shot to see auroras on bright, clear nights. What’s more, you’ll find milder weather, some of the best hikes in the world and a peaceful, uncongested atmosphere in the northern towns. 

2. November to February: Peak Aurora Viewing Season 

Seeing the Northern Lights in Norway is most important during this time. Frequent and bright Aurora shows are most likely to happen on the long, dark winter nights. You might experience subzero temperatures, but that shouldn’t stop you from seeing the stunning sights and it’s a worthy deal. Whether you are in Tromsø, Alta or the Lofoten Islands, you may see the skies full of colorful light. Bundle up and spend the evening out that’s when Norway is especially beautiful. 

3. March to Early April: Clear Skies and Longer Days 

Though spring is on the way, there are still plenty of dark nights to watch the Northern Lights in Europe. At this time of year, March, the air above us tends to be the most clear and cloudless. It’s not as cold as in winter, giving you chances to try snowmobiling, dog sledding and ice fishing in the morning or evening. It’s a wonderful time to enjoy Norway’s Arctic thanks to the mix of ease of travel, favorable weather and multiple activities. 

4. Best Viewing Time of Night: 6 PM to 2 AM 

Catching the Aurora requires you to be there at the right time of the month and night as well. Your best possibility of seeing the Northern Lights is between sunset and 2 AM and often there is peak activity between 10 PM and midnight. Find somewhere away from nighttime city light and don’t rush give your eyes about 20 minutes to adjust to darkness. Check the sky regularly that evening it may take some time, but you might get lucky. 

5. Dress in Warm, Layered Clothing 

Since watching Auroras often means being outside for hours in the cold, it’s important to dress warmly. Dress in warmer thermals, add some middle layers of fleece or down and then cover all with a waterproof jacket. Don’t leave the house without your wool hat, gloves, scarf and boots topped with thick socks. Hand warmers are a fantastic addition to your bag as well. If you aren’t feeling ready, you’ll have a hard time enjoying yourself so being over-prepared is always the safer choice. 

6. Join a Guided Tour for Local Expertise 

The best way to make it more likely you’ll see the Northern Lights is by joining a local guided tour. Most tours are held in cities such as Tromsø and Kirkenes and guides use the latest weather and aurora predictions to plan your tour. They frequently take you far outside the city for the sky to be completely clear. Some tours will give you extra clothing, snacks and helpful tips on photography so you don’t have to worry about much. 

Conclusion 

Watching the Northern Lights in Norway is an experience you’ll never forget and often makes you feel closer to nature. If you time it well, use suitable equipment and have some luck, your journey could be one of the most exciting you’ve ever had. No matter when you visit, Norway allows you to see one of nature’s biggest shows up close. 

If you are an Indian traveller and want to see Norway’s Arctic wonders, getting your Norway Visa from India is the first thing to do. When you prepare wisely and feel amazed, you will end up enjoying the dancing lights above and learn that some dreams are meant to be achieved.