Published on December 7, 2025
Every winter, the Northern lights, also known as auroras, draw tourists from all corners of the planet. Thanks to technological advances and better planning, 2025 will be the easiest year to try and chase the lights, as there will be new, better locations to see the lights from. Regardless of whether you want to see the lights from a luxury set-up or a more tough and rugged climent, we have all the information you will need to find the best locations to chase the lights in 2025.

Tromsø, Norway: A Gateway to the Aurora

Tromsø, often regarded as the northern capital of Norway, remains a prime destination for aurora seekers. The city is accessible via Tromsø Airport, which connects to international flights. Travelers can easily venture out of the city to escape light pollution. For a more immersive experience, consider boat safaris or fjord cruises that offer panoramic views of the lights. The Fjellheisen cable car to Storsteinen provides a bird’s-eye view of the city and surrounding mountains, ideal for witnessing the aurora in all its glory.

Alta, Norway: Perfect for Clear Skies

Advertisement
Further along Norway’s Arctic coastline lies Alta, renowned for its dry Arctic climate, which enhances the chances of clear skies. Alta is home to historic aurora observatories, providing unparalleled opportunities for aurora chasers. The area’s open landscapes create perfect conditions for sweeping aurora bands over frozen lakes and valleys. Alta is easily accessible via Alta Airport, with regular connections from Tromsø and Oslo, making it a convenient stop for those chasing the lights.

Abisko, Sweden: A Photographer’s Dream

Abisko, located in Swedish Lapland, is a small village famous for its consistently clear skies, a crucial factor for optimal aurora viewing. The Aurora Sky Station, perched above Lake Torneträsk, offers an elevated vantage point for spectacular views of the northern lights. Visitors can reach Abisko by car or train from Kiruna. The surrounding landscape, including the Lapporten massif and reflective waters, creates a stunning backdrop for the auroras, making it a photographer’s paradise.

Reykjavik & Iceland: A Volcanic Wonderland

Iceland is not only known for its striking landscapes but also for its accessibility. Reykjavik, the capital, serves as a central hub for aurora chasers, with numerous dark spots nearby. Travelers can head to Öskjuhlíð hill or Perlan for a clear view of the northern lights without leaving the city. For a more isolated experience, venture to Thingvellir National Park or Iceland’s coastal peninsulas, where volcanic scenery and open horizons provide a dramatic backdrop for aurora displays. The country’s well-developed road network and numerous guided tours make Iceland an excellent choice for aurora enthusiasts.

Fairbanks, Alaska: Directly Under the Auroral Oval

Fairbanks, Alaska, lies almost directly beneath the auroral oval, making it a top destination for aurora viewing. Known for its long winter nights and frequent auroral activity, Fairbanks offers both in-town aurora displays and the chance to venture into darker, more remote areas for better viewing. Visitors can join guided tours that take them to perfect vantage points, including heated viewing domes and lodges. Fairbanks International Airport connects to major US cities, making it an accessible location for travelers.

Yellowknife, Canada: The Aurora Capital of the North

Advertisement
Yellowknife in Canada’s Northwest Territories is renowned for its stable winter weather and low light pollution, creating optimal conditions for aurora sightings. Situated on the southern shores of Great Slave Lake, Yellowknife offers incredible views of the lights, often over smooth ice formations. Tour operators provide transportation to purpose-built viewing areas along the Ingraham Trail, offering a comfortable setting to watch the aurora. The reliable aurora displays and strong photographic opportunities make Yellowknife a popular choice for travelers seeking an all-in-one aurora experience.

Kangerlussuaq, Greenland: Arctic Wilderness

For those seeking an authentic Arctic adventure, Kangerlussuaq in Greenland provides an unforgettable experience. This remote town offers long, clear nights and minimal light pollution, ideal for aurora watching. From Kangerlussuaq, visitors can head towards the ice cap and fjords, where the northern lights are framed by stark glacial landscapes. Greenland’s accessibility via scheduled flights and its raw, untouched beauty make it a unique destination for aurora chasers looking to combine their trip with glacier excursions or Inuit cultural experiences.

Scotland: A Rare but Majestic Experience

While Scotland may not be as reliable as some other destinations for aurora viewing, its remote northern regions offer some of the most picturesque backdrops for the lights. The Cairngorms, Highlands, and islands like the Shetlands and Outer Hebrides are prime spots when geomagnetic conditions align. The aurora displays here are less frequent but can be spectacular when they occur, especially when seen over moors, lochs, and coastal cliffs. Local dark-sky initiatives, combined with stargazing weekends, create a perfect setting for this rare spectacle.

Tips for Aurora Chasing in 2025

• Timing: The best time to chase the auroras is from mid-September to early April. Peak viewing occurs during the winter months when the nights are longest.
• Weather: While aurora forecasts can predict solar activity, clear skies are essential. Always check weather conditions and cloud cover before heading out.
• Stay Away from Light Pollution: For the best chance to see the auroras, choose accommodations away from city lights. Many destinations offer remote lodges or guided tours that take you to dark-sky locations.
• Guided Tours: Many destinations, including Tromsø and Fairbanks, offer expert guides who can increase your chances of witnessing the aurora in all its beauty. They also offer photography tips to help you capture the perfect shot.

Conclusion

Aurora hotspots around the world make 2025 the year to experience the majesty of the Northern Lights. Travelers have Arctic landscapes of Greenland and Norway, and the volcanically themed Iceland and Alaska, to consider for their trips. With enough care to consider the local conditions, plan the activities as guided experiences and the likelihood of seeing the lights in all their glory over the destination is greatly improved. First timers and seasoned aurora chasing veterans will appreciate the excellent options for viewing this natural wonder in all its glory.

Advertisement
Tags: aurora chasing, Iceland, northern lights, Tromsø

I want to receive travel news and trade event updates from Travel And Tour World. I have read Travel And Tour World's Privacy Notice .
Sunday, December 7, 2025
Sunday, December 7, 2025
Sunday, December 7, 2025
Sunday, December 7, 2025
Sunday, December 7, 2025
Saturday, December 6, 2025
Saturday, December 6, 2025
Saturday, December 6, 2025

source