The 7 best destinations to see the Northern Lights early

If you're wondering where and when to see the Northern Lights , you're not alone: ​​astrotourism is a rapidly growing travel trend, and more and more people are choosing to chase dark, starry skies. The aurora remains at the top of everyone's bucket list, but seeing them depends on more than just the destination; several factors come into play, especially timing. Contrary to popular belief, however, winter months aren't the only ones guaranteed to offer this spectacular spectacle.

Especially in a period when the probability of witnessing incredible auroras is very high (in October 2024 NASA announced that the Sun had reached “solar maximum,” the peak of activity in its 11-year cycle), there’s no need to wait until December…you just need to know where to go.

These are the 7 best destinations to see the Northern Lights early !

Tromsø, Norway

Imagine the Northern Lights, and you're imagining Norway. Or rather, Norway is the destination that offers exactly what you're looking for: a spectacular dose of dancing lights. Starting in September , the northern part of the country becomes the perfect natural stage for admiring the aurora. Statistically, in fact, the highest levels of activity are recorded in spring (March/April) and autumn (September/October) .

The destination to consider is Tromsø , considered one of the best places to see the Northern Lights . Located above the Arctic Circle, the city boasts latitudes that guarantee a high probability of sightings even in autumn. Here, after a night spent chasing the auroras, enjoy a coffee in one of the city's cafés or a visit to the Polar Museum .

Lofoten Islands, Norway

Norway is a magnet for the Northern Lights, and Tromsø isn't the only destination where the season starts early. The Lofoten Islands are also a unique destination, thanks in large part to the combination of the aurora with spectacular natural scenery, including mountains and fjords . Located in the Arctic Circle, between 67 and 68 degrees north latitude, the Lofoten Islands are located within the so-called "auroral oval," the band of latitudes around the Earth where the Northern Lights are most likely to be visible. As a result, they can be seen here for a full eight months of the year , starting as early as the end of August!

Furthermore, the Lofoten Islands are perfect for those who want to experience the aurora by combining the experience with active days of kayaking in the fjords, hiking to the peaks, or simply walking through postcard-perfect landscapes bathed in the golden light of the low sun on the horizon.

Abisko, Sweden

The magical lights of the Northern Lights appear idyllically during the polar nights of Abisko , one of Sweden's top destinations for viewing them, starting in September. Within Abisko National Park or in the surrounding Kiruna Mountains, you'll have a very high chance of seeing them dancing green above you.

The secret lies in the famous "Blue Hole," an atmospheric phenomenon that keeps the skies clearer than the surrounding areas, thus increasing the chances of seeing the northern lights. If you're lucky, you'll see them take on colors ranging from purple, blue, yellow, or even red! Stargazing enthusiasts can also ascend to the Aurora Sky Station , an observation platform connected by a panoramic chairlift, which offers a privileged vantage point far from any light pollution.

Rovaniemi, Finland

The magic in Rovaniemi , known as the official home of Santa Claus, begins in mid-August. Here, the first Northern Lights can be seen as early as August 8th and 10th and can be admired until April 25th. Choosing this destination means experiencing a journey that combines the thrill of the Northern Lights with a fairytale atmosphere.

It's not the only destination in Finland where you can admire the aurora: if you're looking for a lesser-known spot immersed in pristine nature, we recommend visiting Saariselkä . The unmissable experience? Staying in the famous glass igloos , which allow you to watch the aurora from the comfort of your bed!

Westfjords, Iceland

In Iceland , the Northern Lights appear early. This spectacle can be witnessed as early as late August , thanks to the return of darkness after months of continuous sunshine. To admire them in all their splendor, we recommend traveling to the Westfjords : remote, pristine, and immersed in such total darkness that they offer perfect conditions for spotting the dancing lights.

For those who want to maximize their chances, the northern region, around Akureyri and Lake Mývatn , offers clear skies and less light pollution. This is because the fjords, with their steep walls, block out the lights of the small villages.

Kangerlussuaq, Greenland

Among the most accessible Arctic destinations (there are direct flights from Copenhagen) and among the destinations where the Northern Lights season begins early is Kangerlussuaq , Greenland . Located just above the Arctic Circle, the city is considered the country's Northern Lights capital, where they begin to appear from the end of September.

Far from the coast, it enjoys over 300 clear nights a year , with an extremely high probability of sightings. Kangerlussuaq's charm also lies in its unique landscapes: fjords, glaciers, and Arctic tundra create the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable trip. Adventure lovers can combine aurora watching with excursions to the Russell Glacier or Arctic safaris to spot musk oxen and reindeer.

Yellowknife, Canada

Finally, if you want to see the Northern Lights early, we recommend traveling to Yellowknife , Canada . Here, the aurora is known by a unique name chosen by the Dene Native Americans, who live in Canada's Northwest Territories: ya'ke ngas , meaning "shaking sky." The phenomenon is visible as early as late August, and according to the region's tourist board, spending three nights in this area gives you a 98% chance of seeing them appear in the sky.

To fully experience this unique experience, we recommend admiring the aurora from dedicated observatories like the Aurora Village . Several heated teepee tents are available for visitors, but must be booked in advance, allowing you to enjoy the show in complete comfort even on the coldest nights.

Yellowknife is also a great base for those who love adventure : from canoe trips to trekking in the boreal forests, to spotting local wildlife.