The Travel Savvy Wanderer

Imagine traveling to Norway and experiencing the memorable sight of the Northern Lights! You will be such a lucky traveler! So, if you are planning for your trip in 2024, I suggest you check Norway. It is one of the places in the world where the sight of the aurora can be magically experienced. In this post, we will give you some tips to enjoy this wonderful travel destination and capture tons of pictures of the Northern Lights!

Northern Lights – Why should you travel to Norway?

What are the Northern Lights?

In 2024, experts say we may see even more auroras in regions they’re not normally spotted. That’s because the sun is reaching the peak (called the “solar maximum”) of its roughly 11-year cycle, in which solar activity will be greatest. But this maximum has even more excitement around it than usual because the last one in 2014 was the weakest in a century, says Mark Miesch, a research scientist at NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center in Boulder, Colorado. [National Geographic, December 2023]

Firstly, it is important to understand what are the Northern Lights. Well, there is a scientific explanation for that. But, they are commonly seen as beautiful dancing waves that nature travelers often dream of watching, at least once in their life!

The Northern Lights, also known as Aurora Borealis, are a natural light display in the Earth’s sky, predominantly seen in the high-latitude regions around the Arctic and Antarctic.

Where can you see the Northern Lights?

• The UK
• Ireland
• Alaska
• Canada
• Norway
• Iceland
• Greenland
• Finland

The Northern Lights tourism industry is on the rise. But, what is the best place to see the Northern Lights? Norway is one such place and that’s why we have dedicated this post to any traveler planning to visit Norway next year to see these magical lights.

Now, those of you interested in the scientific explanation of what causes the Northern Lights can check out this video from CBC News.

Why travel to Norway?

Although auroras are never guaranteed, Norway is one of the best places to see them …Cruise ships also sail along the Norwegian coastline, offering even darker viewing conditions… [National Geographic, December 2023]

Norway is a beautiful country located in the northern part of Europe. It is famous for its beautiful natural scenery and the magical Northern Lights. Besides, it is one of the best places to witness this natural beauty.

You should visit Norway around mid-September to early April for the best chances to see the Northern Lights. You can visit Tromsø if you are planning to travel to Norway during those months. See map below.

Moreover, there are a lot of things to do in Tromsø. But if you are going specifically for the Northern Lights, which I’m presuming would be the case! You may check some guide tours.

Now if you are visiting Tromsø, Norway, you may also check out the following highlights while you are there:

• The Polar Museum (ticket fee around $10)
• The Artic-Alpine Botanic Garden
• Tromsø southern beach
• Prestvannet (hiking area)

You can also check out things to do around Tromsø on Tripadvisor – https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g190475-Activities-Tromso_Troms_Northern_Norway.html

Check out this video from Alister Chapman to get an idea of what is waiting for you if you are traveling to Norway in 2024.

8 Tips to Enjoy the Northern Lights in Norway

Are you planning a trip to Norway to see the Northern Lights? Here are some very simple tips to help you make the most of your experience.

1. Choose the Right Time of Year to Enjoy the Northern Lights

“To witness this phenomenon, one should seek a dark, light pollution-free location with an unobstructed northern horizon, preferably from an elevated spot like a hill.”

[BBC Science Focus, 2023]

The best time to see the Northern Lights in Norway is during the winter months, from late September to early April. During this time, the nights are long, and the skies are dark. This provides the perfect conditions for the auroras to appear. My advice would be to go in October, as September may be slightly early.

2. Find a Good Viewing Spot

“A couple of kilometres from Tromsø city centre is the beautiful lake of Prestvannet…“This nature reserve with no artificial illumination is an evocative spot to see the northern lights in peaceful surroundings a 20-minute walk from the city centre”.”

[Visit Norway, 2023]

When you are in Norway, it’s essential to find a place with minimal light pollution and a clear view of the northern horizon. Some popular spots for Northern Lights viewing in Norway include Tromsø, Lofoten, and the North Cape.

3. Dress Warmly while Watching the Northern Lights

“Norway is a good place to visit, but only if you’re far enough North. If you want a good chance of seeing the northern lights, you’ll want to go at least as far north as Bodø, and heading all the way up to Tromsø or Alta would give you even better chances.”

 [Heart My Backpack, 2023]

Norwegian winters are very cold, especially in the northern regions where the Northern Lights are most commonly seen. Make sure to dress in warm layers, including thermal underwear, a good winter jacket, gloves, a hat, and waterproof boots.

4. Stay Up Late

“On a Northern Lights tour, experienced guides with comprehensive local knowledge will lead the way. They take you far away from the city and the light pollution to increase your chances of a successful chase.”

 [Norwegian Travel, 2023]

The Northern Lights are usually most visible between 9 PM and 1 AM, so be prepared to stay up late and be patient. It’s worth the wait to see the breathtaking display of colors dancing across the night sky.

5. Check the Weather Forecast

“SolarHam gives a reliable three-day geomagnetic forecast used by aurora hunters, while the Aurora Forecast app shows you the position of the auroral oval around the Arctic Circle and also indicates the probability of seeing them where you are…A great resource unique to this part of Scandinavia is Yr from the Norwegian Meteorological Institute, which will help with finding a cloud-free corridor in this part of the world. Also useful is the Norway Lights app, which gives a prediction using data on both the Northern Lights’ activity and cloud cover.”

[Travel + Leisure, 2022]

It’s essential to keep an eye on the weather forecast while you’re in Norway. Clear skies are crucial for Northern Lights visibility, so plan your Northern Lights hunts on nights with the least cloud cover.

6. Consider a Guided Tour

“As for the best time of night to see the Aurora in Norway, it varies depending on many factors but usually, there’s a higher activity between 10:00 pm – 02:00 am.”

[Capture the Atlas, 2023]

If you’re unsure about where to go or how to maximize your chances of seeing the auroras, consider booking a guided tour. Moreover, experienced guides can take you to the best viewing spots and provide valuable insights into the natural phenomenon.

7. Take Lots of Photos of the Northern Lights

“In addition to using a wide-angle lens and stabilisation, it helps to have a low-light capable lens, with an aperture or F-stop of 4.0 or lower. This means you won’t have to whack the ISO up too high, as this will add noise to your image. Each camera is different, so do some night sky test shots before you travel. Shoot in RAW for extra detail.”

[National Geographic, 2023]

Seeing the Northern Lights is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many people, so make sure to capture the magical moments with plenty of photographs. Remember to adjust your camera settings for low-light conditions to get the best possible shots.

8. Embrace the Experience

“Norway is a captivating stunning natural beauty that seamlessly incorporates modern, traditional and adventure in everything. In short, what you get in Norway is something unique and unforgettable. From majestic fjords and soaring mountains to cultural hubs like Oslo and Bergen, this Nordic beauty of a country offers every visitor a chance to have an unforgettable holiday.”

[timestravel, 2023]

Lastly, remember to cherish the experience of seeing the Northern Lights. Take a moment to disconnect from the digital world, appreciate the natural beauty around you, and create lasting memories of this incredible journey. So, keep your phone away unless you are using it to take pictures.

8 Tips for Solo Travelers

Furthermore, if you’re traveling solo to see the Northern Lights in Norway, here are some straightforward tips to help make your experience as enjoyable and safe as possible.

1. Inform Someone About Your Plans

Before you set off on your Northern Lights adventure, make sure to inform a friend, family member, or your accommodation staff about your plans. This way, someone knows where you are in case of any unforeseen circumstances.

2. Choose Safe Accommodation

When traveling solo, it’s essential to choose safe and secure accommodation. Look for well-reviewed hotels, hostels, or guesthouses with good security measures in place.

3. Stay Informed About Weather Conditions

Keep yourself updated on the weather conditions during your stay, especially on nights when you plan to go Northern Lights hunting. Clear skies are crucial for spotting the auroras, so plan your outings accordingly.

4. Join Guided Tours to Better Experience the Northern Lights

Consider joining guided Northern Lights tours, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area. Experienced guides can not only lead you to the best viewing spots but also provide valuable safety tips.

5. Observe Safety Precautions

Whether you’re out exploring or waiting for the Northern Lights, remember to observe safety precautions at all times. This includes dressing warmly, planning your routes, and being cautious of your surroundings.

6. Connect with Fellow Travelers

If you’re comfortable, consider connecting with fellow travelers or locals. Engaging with others can add a sense of community and may provide extra safety and enjoyment during your solo journey.

7. Capture the Moment Safely

When taking photographs, especially if you’re alone, be mindful of your surroundings. Find well-lit areas and inform someone if you plan on venturing out late at night for photography.

8. Embrace the Solo Experience

Lastly, embrace the unique experience of witnessing the Northern Lights solo. Take the time to appreciate the beauty of nature and the sense of adventure that comes with solo travel.

Conclusion

So, we can say that traveling to Norway to witness the magical Northern Lights is an experience like no other! Norway offers a truly magical adventure for any traveler. By following the tips provided in this post and embracing the unique experience, you can make the most of your Northern Lights adventure in Norway. Safe Travels!