Where else to see the northern lights: a list of locations

People are willing to travel to the other side of the world to see the northern lights. Finland, Sweden, Iceland, and several other countries have hotel complexes and tourist routes in places where this incredibly beautiful natural phenomenon is most often seen. OBOZREVATEL has compiled a list of locations where you can take a photo against the backdrop of a colorful sky at the moment.

As a reminder, due to the rapid spread of the Omicron strain, most countries in the world are gradually tightening quarantine conditions. The latest information on this is available on the portal of the Consular Service of Ukraine.

Kaulvavedal (Iceland)

There is a small settlement in the very north of Iceland. In summer, tourists rarely come here, but in winter there is no shortage of them. The fact is that it is here that you can most often see the northern lights in the sky. There are even special excursions to this place for those who want to get a better look at the colorful flashes in the sky.

Another feature of this resort is its location. It is surrounded by the Vatnajökull National Park and the glacier of the same name. Here you can go snowmobiling, visit petting zoos and farms, and take a walk among the diverse nature.

Abisku (Sweden)

The tiny village of Abisku stands on the shores of the 70-kilometer-long Lake Tornetresk. There are no large villas or multi-story hotels here. A few guesthouses host foreigners who come here in search of the northern lights.

The settlement is located 200 kilometers from the Arctic Circle and has special climatic conditions. Even if the whole region is covered with snow and wind, there is always a good hike here. This allows tourists to enjoy the colors that cover the sky for as long as possible. They are not even put off by the fact that most of the time in this part of Sweden it is night.

Ivalo and Inari (Finland)

If you go anywhere for the northern lights, it's definitely Finland. The local climatic and natural conditions contribute to the fact that the sky is filled with yellow and green colors almost all winter long. The best place to stop is one of the two tourist villages – Ivalo or Inari.

In cities, due to air pollution, the natural phenomenon is less visible. That's why local guides offer tourists to go on night trips through the forests. They take foreigners by car, stopping at large glades. Of course, no one gives any guarantees that you will be lucky. But just for the chance to see such beauty, it's worth paying for a tour.

Kirkenes (Norway)

In the village of Kirkenes, you are unlikely to find entertainment centers, baths, swimming pools, and large stores. People come here for the pristine nature and incredible views. Tourists are offered to go snowmobiling, see bears and deer, walk around dog farms, and, of course, admire the northern lights.

There are practically no cafes and restaurants in the resort. But in local guest houses, the owners are happy to cook national cuisine for tourists. This adds even more color to the trip.

Yellowknife (Canada)

Canada boasts one of the lowest levels of air pollution in the world. This, as well as a very good location, allows you to observe the northern lights here almost all year round. People go to Yellowknife from August to April to see this beauty.

By the way, there are also many spa and wellness centers where you can take a break from the fast pace of life.