Northern Lights from Tromsø

Planning to chase the Northern Lights in Norway?

Norway is renowned for being one of the prime locations on Earth to witness the breathtaking Northern Lights. Situated within the Arctic Circle, its northern regions boast minimal light pollution and optimal conditions for experiencing this celestial phenomenon in all its glory. From the charming city of Tromsø to the remote wilderness of the Lofoten Islands, Norway offers diverse and stunning backdrops for capturing the dancing auroras against the night sky.

Beyond its natural wonders, Norway enchants visitors with its warm hospitality and myriad of Arctic adventures. Whether you're sledding with huskies across snow-blanketed landscapes or indulging in traditional Sami cuisine under the shimmering lights, Norway's allure extends far beyond the celestial spectacle above.

In Norway, chasing the Northern Lights is not just an activity — it's an unforgettable journey into the heart of one of Earth's most captivating landscapes.
 

Northern Lights

The Northern Lights, also known as Aurora borealis, is one of the most magic displays in the night sky. This spectacular show is a natural phenomenon that occurs in the polar regions near the Arctic Circle.

The Northern Lights are caused by the interaction between the Earth's magnetic field and charged particles from the sun. When the sun releases a large amount of energy in the form of solar flares or coronal mass ejections, it can send a stream of charged particles, mainly electrons and protons, towards the Earth.

As these charged particles approach the Earth, they are deflected by the planet's magnetic field. However, some particles manage to enter the Earth's atmosphere near the magnetic poles, where the magnetic field is weaker. When these charged particles collide with atoms and molecules in the atmosphere, they transfer energy to them, causing the atoms and molecules to become excited.

When the excited atoms and molecules return to their normal state, they release the excess energy in the form of light. This light is what creates the beautiful colors of the Northern Lights. The specific colors produced depend on the type of gas in the atmosphere and the altitude at which the collisions occur. Common colors include green, red, blue, and purple.

The Northern Lights are breathtaking displays of colorful lights that dance across the night sky.

The best places to see the Northern Lights (or Aurora Borealis) are usually high-latitude regions such as Alaska, Canada, Greenland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Russia. They are most frequently observed during the winter months when the nights are longer and darker. However, they can occur at any time of the year, provided the conditions are right.

To witness this magical moment you need to go somewhere dark, with no light pollution, clear skies and no precipitation, which is not always easy!

That's why joining this small tour gives you an amazing opportunity to increase your chance of seeing the dazzling northern lights. Search for the Northern Lights with your experienced guides who will find the best spots for you. Get an honest assessment of the likelihood of spotting the lights from your guide for that evening.

Tromsø

One of the best places in the world to witness the captivating phenomenon of the Aurora Borealis!!

Tromsø is a city located in northern Norway, above the Arctic Circle. It is known for its stunning natural beauty and its prime location for observing the Northern Lights. Tromsø is often referred to as the "Gateway to the Arctic" due to its strategic location in the Arctic region.

Despite its high latitude, Tromsø benefits from the warm Gulf Stream, which helps moderate its climate compared to other places at similar latitudes. However, it still experiences long, dark winters with polar nights when the sun does not rise above the horizon, and conversely, long summer days when the sun remains above the horizon for weeks.

One of the main attractions of Tromsø is the opportunity to witness the Northern Lights. Due to its location within the Aurora Oval, Tromsø offers excellent chances to see this spectacular natural phenomenon. Many tour operators in Tromsø offer Northern Lights tours, which take visitors to dark and secluded areas outside the city to maximize the chances of observing the lights.

Aside from the Northern Lights, Tromsø has much to offer. The city itself is vibrant and culturally rich, with a thriving arts and music scene. It is home to several museums, including the Tromsø Museum, which focuses on the natural and cultural history of the region. The Arctic Cathedral, a striking architectural landmark, is another popular tourist attraction in Tromsø.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of activities to enjoy in and around Tromsø. The surrounding fjords and mountains offer opportunities for hiking, skiing, dog sledding, and whale watching. Tromsø also serves as a base for expeditions to the remote and rugged Svalbard archipelago.

Overall, Tromsø is a fantastic destination for those seeking a combination of natural wonders, cultural experiences, and the chance to witness the captivating Northern Lights.

From Tromsø: Guided Northern Lights Photo Chase

Discover the magic of the Northern Lights on an evening Small Goup Tour from Tromsø. The Northern Lights are a truly awe-inspiring natural phenomenon that has fascinated and captivated people throughout history.

Depart from Tromsø (Norway) in a comfortable minibus equipped with everything you need, including free Wi-Fi, and hunt for the dancing lights of the Aurora Borealis. Relax in the comfortable minibus on your way to wherever meteorologists have predicted the lights will be at their best. To get stunning views of the sky, head for areas with good solar activity and clear skies.

Enjoy a heated tent with a toilet. The windscreen camera allows you to follow the night sky on a TV screen, witnessing the Northern Lights illuminating the darkness from the comfort of your seat.

Keep warm with a thermal suit, and enjoy hot drinks and hot meal. Ensure you get great pictures on your tour with camera help from your guide. Your guide will assist you with the camera settings and use of a tripod for the best pictures.

Before picking you up from the meeting place in a comfortable vehicle, your guide will carefully analyze the weather forecast in order to take you to the areas where the clearest sky is expected that night. Board the bus and relax on a drive through the wilderness.

Be prepared, stay patient, and keep your eyes on the night sky for this extraordinary display of nature's beauty!