Photo Credit: Kakkslauttanen Arctic Resort
On many a travel wish-list you'll find a clear night sky and view of the Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, the spectacular natural light show of brilliant colours that play across the Arctic sky.
And that is most definitely a part of my bucket list to experience one day, preferably from a glass igloo in Finland's Kakkslauttanen Arctic Resort.
Unfortunately, wherever you go to view the lights, it's not like you can simply turn up and will definitely see them, it depends a lot on the weather circumstances of the day, such as cloud cover and light pollution, as to whether or not the night sky will be filled with colour. I know several travellers who have ventured to Sweden, Finland and Alaska specifically to witness this natural wonder, and have come home with their dreams dashed as it wasn't visible for the entirety of their stay.
And that is most definitely a part of my bucket list to experience one day, preferably from a glass igloo in Finland's Kakkslauttanen Arctic Resort.
Unfortunately, wherever you go to view the lights, it's not like you can simply turn up and will definitely see them, it depends a lot on the weather circumstances of the day, such as cloud cover and light pollution, as to whether or not the night sky will be filled with colour. I know several travellers who have ventured to Sweden, Finland and Alaska specifically to witness this natural wonder, and have come home with their dreams dashed as it wasn't visible for the entirety of their stay.
Aurora Borealis viewed in Norway, 28th October 2006. Photo Credit: Rafal Konieczny
What Are the Northern Lights?
The nighttime light show is all thanks to solar particles which collide with atmospheric solar gases, thus creating the spectacular washes of colour that dance across the sky.
When and Where Should I GO?
From late November to March in the Arctic is the prime viewing period for the northern lights. Ideal viewing conditions are crisp, cold, clear, and cloudless skies with little light pollution so that you can see the show in its full glory. And good God, make sure your camera is charged!
The best countries to view the lights include:
The best countries to view the lights include:
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For me? A glass igloo at Kakkslautten Arctic Resort in Finland is where I hope to view the lights one day. Check out the other Arctic activities you can partake in at the resort when not staring skyward. For an Australian who has to go high up into the mountains in a particularly cold winter if I'm ever going to see snow, this all looks very, very fun.
Amazing, no? Hopefully, one day, I'll see you there!
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