Best Time to see the Northern Lights in Rovaniemi

What is the best time to see the Aurora Borealis in Rovaniemi?

Rovaniemi is one of the best places in the world to see the Aurora Borealis. This natural light show in the sky is an amazing experience, and Rovaniemi (Lapland) is a popular spot to see it.

But when is the best time to visit to make sure you catch the northern lights? We at Northern Lights Rovaniemi will show you the best tips and what you need to know to make your winter holiday amazing!

best season for the northern lights in rovaniemi.

When Can You See the Northern Lights?

In Rovaniemi, the Northern Lights are visible about 200 nights a year, from late August to early April. However, some months are better than others for seeing them clearly. Let’s break it down by season:

Late August to October

  • Best for: Warmer weather and autumn views.
  • Pros:
    • The Northern Lights season starts in late August, when the nights become darker. During autumn, you can enjoy beautiful scenery with colorful trees and lakes that reflect the lights.
  • Cons:
    • It’s not as reliable as later in the year, since the sky needs to be very clear to see the lights.

November to February (Winter)

  • Best for: The best chances to see the lights and winter activities.
  • Pros:
    • These are the most popular months for aurora hunters. The nights are very long, giving you many hours to spot the lights. The snow also makes the landscapes look magical, and you can enjoy winter activities like dog sledding or snowmobiling while waiting for the lights.
  • Cons:
    • It can be extremely cold, with temperatures dropping to -30°C (-22°F). But many tours provide warm shelters to stay cozy while you wait.

March to Early April

  • Best for: Warmer days and clearer skies.
  • Pros:
    • In spring, the days are longer, so you can enjoy more outdoor activities, like skiing or reindeer safaris. Also, the skies tend to be clearer, which makes it easier to see the Northern Lights.
  • Cons:
    • The nights are shorter, so there’s less time to watch the sky. But the lights can still be spectacular during this time.

Best Time of Night to See the Northern Lights

The best time to see the Northern Lights is usually between 9:00 PM and 2:00 AM. During these hours, the sky is at its darkest, making the auroras more visible. Most tours recommend starting your search at around 10:00 PM and staying out for a few hours.

How Weather and Solar Activity Affect the Northern Lights

The Northern Lights happen because of solar activity, so their intensity depends on how much solar energy is reaching the Earth. Before you go out, it’s a good idea to check the aurora forecast online to see your chances. You also need clear skies, so make sure to check the local weather. Cloudy nights make it harder to see the lights.

Where to Go for the Best View

Even though Rovaniemi is a small city, it still has some light pollution that can affect your view of the auroras. The best way to see the lights is to go somewhere outside the city where the sky is darker. Here are some good spots:

  1. Ounasvaara Hill – This hill is close to the city and offers a higher spot to view the lights.
  2. Arctic Circle Hiking Area – About 30 minutes from Rovaniemi, this area has wide, open spaces with very little light pollution.
  3. Guided Tours – Many companies offer guided tours that take you to remote locations. Some tours even offer warm cabins where you can wait comfortably for the auroras. For more information, check out our website at Northern Lights Rovaniemi.

The best time to see the Northern Lights in Rovaniemi depends on your preferences. If you want the best chance to see the lights, November to February is the perfect time. If you prefer milder weather, you can also visit in autumn or spring and still have a good chance. Whenever you go, the Northern Lights in Rovaniemi will be a memory you’ll treasure forever.