Northern Lights watching tips & advice

“Firstly, avoid light pollution: Much like the stars, the Aurora can only be properly witnessed once you escape the sodium glare of the city lights, making remote locations crucial for Aurora hunting. Secondly, keep mobile: Cloud cover is the enemy of Aurora hunters, so keep on the move to reach clearer skies. Thirdly, use local knowledge: Local guides know the best spots to see some truly incredible displays! Lastly, be patient: Like any natural phenomenon the Aurora are unpredictable and prone to appear after you’ve given up and gone to bed. So be willing to wait up, it’ll be worth it! It’s important to remember that the Northern Lights are a natural occurrence with so many factors and variables affecting their appearance in our skies. This means that although we can maximise your chances, by using local guides, heading to remote locations away from light pollution and embarking on activities that take you away from localise cloud cover, there can never be any guarantees you will witness a display during your holiday. Of course, this is what makes it so spectacular if you do see them!”

“The Northern Lights are visible between late August and early April, and each month brings its own reason to travel. Scientifically, autumn and spring have increased chances of geomagnetic activity thanks to the autumnal and spring equinoxes, which in simple terms means more Northern Lights displays, making the months of September, October and March a great time for an Aurora break. Alternatively, the winter months of November to February are a great time to travel for the classic Northern Lights snow experience and the opportunity to try thrilling activities such as dog sledding, reindeer sleigh rides and snowmobiling!”

Lapland and Iceland enjoy low crime rates, and public transport is safe and efficient. One of the main hazards can be driving – especially during winter, when it is a legal requirement to use snow tyres, preferably with studs. Check the laws for the country you intend to drive in. Engine heaters are also recommended. Black ice is a particular danger when the temperature is just below freezing. Look out for wildlife – collisions with deer are common, and accidents caused by moose can result in serious injury, and even death. Snowmobiles may only be driven by those with a driving licence. Generally in these regions, drink/drive laws are extremely strict and heavily enforced. Drinking is therefore not advised, especially in icy conditions. Be aware that in winter, weather conditions can change very suddenly, particularly in mountainous regions.