22 Destinations to Witness the Northern Lights Without the Crowds
Exploring the Northern Lights is a dream for many.
However, the crowds in popular spots can be overwhelming. Luckily, there are hidden gems where you can enjoy this natural spectacle in peace.
Let’s explore 22 off-the-beaten-path destinations to witness the Northern Lights away from the hustle.
1. Isle of Skye, Scotland
Quiet, rugged beauty awaits you in a place where the Northern Lights paint the sky.
The Isle of Skye, Scotland, offers remote spots to enjoy the aurora without the crowds. Skye’s cliffs, lochs, and dark skies make it the perfect place for this natural spectacle.
Have you ever wondered how solitude changes the aurora experience? Skye’s landscape alone makes it worth a visit.
2. Reykjavik, Iceland
Did you know Reykjavik offers an incredible view of the Northern Lights? While it might seem bustling, there are plenty of quiet spots.
Venture a little outside the city to escape the lights and find a peaceful viewing spot. Where can you go? Think about the nearby Grotta Lighthouse or the open spaces at Perlan. These areas offer prime views without the crowds.
Are you ready to experience Reykjavik’s combination of urban life and natural wonders? It’s this balance that makes Reykjavik a must-visit for aurora enthusiasts looking to avoid the crowds.
3. Tromsø, Norway
Tromsø sits within the Arctic Circle and offers some of the clearest skies for aurora sightings.
Just a short drive out of the city brings you to quiet spots with breathtaking views. Here, you can experience the lights in a setting of untouched wilderness.
Isn’t it fascinating how a little distance can make a big difference in your aurora experience? Tromsø’s combination of nature and adventure is unforgettable.
4. Finnish Lapland, Finland
This part of Finland is famed for its pristine wilderness and clear skies. Finnish Lapland offers a magical backdrop for the Northern Lights, with myriad spots to view them.
Where should you go? Head to Pyhä-Luosto National Park for untouched beauty. It’s one of those places where the silence is profound, and the sky seems endless. You might even spot reindeer wandering nearby.
How about staying in a glass igloo? It’s a way to experience the auroras from the comfort of your bed.
5. Abisko, Sweden
How often do you find a place almost guaranteed to offer aurora sightings? Abisko National Park in Sweden is renowned for its clear skies and frequent Northern Lights. Located in the far north, Abisko offers a pristine environment away from city lights.
It’s a place where the silence is only broken by the occasional whisper of the wind. Watch the lights dance over Lake Torneträsk or from the Aurora Sky Station.
Where else can you pair a hike through snowy trails with such a light show? Abisko is perfect for nature lovers who want to experience the auroras in serenity.
6. Kangerlussuaq, Greenland
Greenland’s Kangerlussuaq is a truly special place for aurora lovers.
Far from the noise of civilization, the lights shine bright against the Arctic backdrop. The solitude here offers an unparalleled viewing experience.
How often do you get to enjoy the Northern Lights in such a remote and peaceful setting? Kangerlussuaq’s pure, wild landscape makes it even more extraordinary.
7. Yellowknife, Canada
When in Canada, Yellowknife is the place to be for Northern Lights lovers. This city lies directly under the auroral oval, offering consistent displays.
Where can you get the best views? The surrounding areas like Great Slave Lake are ideal for witnessing the lights without interference. The city offers guided tours that take you to the most secluded spots.
Isn’t it exciting to combine culture with nature? Yellowknife’s indigenous culture and history add depth to your adventure, making the Northern Lights just one part of a rich, memorable experience.
8. Fairbanks, Alaska
Though Fairbanks is well-known, it still offers unspoiled spots for viewing the Northern Lights. Situated in Alaska, Fairbanks provides a front-row seat to this natural wonder. It’s as though the sky is putting on a show just for you.
The areas surrounding Fairbanks are perfect for those looking for solitude amidst the lights. Ready to explore the Alaskan wilderness? Consider staying at a remote lodge, where you can enjoy the auroras away from city lights.
Fairbanks combines accessibility with the raw beauty of the Alaskan landscape, offering a unique auroral experience.
9. Murmansk, Russia
Did you know that Murmansk, despite being a city, offers opportunities to see the Northern Lights?
Located in the far northwest of Russia, it’s an unexpected gem for aurora watchers. Where can you escape the city lights? Head to the surrounding rural areas. The stark Russian landscape provides a dramatic backdrop for the lights.
Imagine experiencing Russian culture alongside this light show.
10. Nuuk, Greenland
Where can you see the Northern Lights with a touch of coastal beauty? Nuuk, Greenland’s capital, combines urban life with arctic adventure.
The surrounding fjords and mountains provide stunning views of the auroras. It’s a place where the sea and sky meet, creating a unique viewing experience.
Are you yearning for an adventure that extends beyond the lights? Nuuk offers cultural experiences alongside the natural spectacle, making your trip multifaceted and memorable.
11. Lofoten Islands, Norway
For those seeking a more secluded aurora experience, the Lofoten Islands in Norway are a top pick.
With rugged landscapes and minimal light pollution, these islands are perfect for witnessing the Northern Lights.
Want to mix in some local culture? The traditional fishing villages here offer an authentic glimpse into Norwegian life.
12. Yukon, Canada
How about exploring the Canadian wilderness under the Northern Lights? The Yukon offers vast, open spaces ideal for aurora viewing.
The territory is a haven for those looking to escape civilization and be immersed in nature. With minimal light pollution, the skies are clearer and the auroras more vivid.
The Yukon’s history and landscapes provide a perfect backdrop for your aurora adventure. It’s a journey where the past and present meet under a celestial sky.
13. Svalbard, Norway
Did you know Svalbard offers a unique way to experience the Northern Lights during the polar night? This archipelago is situated well within the Arctic Circle.
Where else can you witness the auroras in total darkness at noon? It’s an experience unlike any other, with the stark beauty of the polar landscape enhancing the lights. Svalbard’s remote location and polar conditions make it a perfect destination for aurora lovers. Here, the darkness is profound, making the lights even more spectacular.
14. Kiruna, Sweden
Though Kiruna is a mining town, it offers some of the best Northern Lights views in Sweden.
Where should you head for the best views? The nearby mountains and forests offer ideal spots for viewing the lights in quiet solitude.
Kiruna’s Sami culture offers a backdrop to your visit, making it more than just a light show but a cultural and natural exploration.
15. Alta, Norway
Alta is home to the world’s first Northern Lights observatory, making it a spot for both science lovers and aurora enthusiasts.
While you’re here, take time to visit the observatory and learn about the science behind the lights.
Combine that with Alta’s serene landscapes, and you have the perfect Northern Lights destination.
16. Churchill, Canada
Polar bears and Northern Lights? Yes, please!
Churchill, in northern Manitoba, is a remote location that offers an incredible combination of wildlife and aurora viewing. Explore the tundra and watch the lights dance in the clear, dark sky.
Ready for an adventure that combines wildlife and natural beauty?
17. Saariselkä, Finland
This Finnish resort town is an excellent spot for a Northern Lights experience.
Saariselkä offers both outdoor adventures and a chance to relax. Consider staying in one of the glass-roofed cabins, where you can watch the auroras in comfort. The surrounding wilderness provides plenty of opportunities to escape the crowds.
How about pairing your aurora viewing with a Finnish sauna? It’s a way to warm up and relax after a night of gazing at the sky.
18. Aviemore, Scotland
Where in Scotland can you see the Northern Lights without the usual crowds? Aviemore, nestled in the Cairngorms, offers a peaceful escape for aurora hunters.
The clear skies and open landscapes provide an ideal setting for a peaceful night under the lights. It’s a place where the beauty of the highlands complements the celestial display.
Aviemore’s mix of wilderness and open skies creates a stunning setting for an unforgettable Northern Lights experience.
19. Nellim, Finland
This remote village near the Russian border is a hidden gem for Northern Lights viewing.
The surrounding wilderness is perfect for those seeking solitude. Did you know you can stay in an aurora cabin? These cabins offer panoramic views of the sky, allowing you to witness the lights from the comfort of indoors.
In Nellim, culture and natural beauty create a serene and captivating experience.
20. Thingvellir National Park, Iceland
Thingvellir is not only a UNESCO World Heritage site but also one of the best spots to see the Northern Lights in Iceland.
With its open spaces and stunning geological formations, this park offers a unique backdrop for the auroras.
Want to explore Iceland’s history and nature while watching the lights? Thingvellir has you covered.
21. Kakslauttanen, Finland
Ever dreamt of watching the Northern Lights from a glass igloo? Kakslauttanen offers this unique experience in Finnish Lapland.
What makes it so special? The environment here is perfect for those seeking both comfort and a skyward show. The region’s remote location means less light pollution and more vivid displays.
It’s not just about the lights, it’s about enjoying them in style and comfort.
22. Inari, Finland
Wondering where to experience Finnish culture alongside the Northern Lights? Inari is the heart of Sámi culture and offers pristine views of the auroras.
Where should you go? The frozen Lake Inari is an ideal spot for witnessing the spectacle. The vast openness of the lake provides a perfect setting for the lights.
Inari offers a rich cultural experience, making the aurora watching even more rewarding. It’s a place where tradition and natural beauty coexist in harmony.