10 Helpful Insights for Chasing the Northern Lights

A winter vacation in the Arctic may not be on the agenda for many people in cold countries like Canada. Beach-front resorts and colorful cocktails are the norm. So, when I decided to explore the Northern Lights in Tromso, Norway, I was unsure what to expect. With a successful chase of the Northern Lights behind me, I can say that the mesmerizing phenomenon known as the Aurora Borealis is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. If you are a first-timer to Tromso or other such Arctic destinations, here are ten essential insights for chasing the Northern Lights.

What are the Northern Lights?

The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, are a fascinating naturally-occurring light show seen mostly in high-latitude places. This magical display happens when particles from the Sun interact with the Earth’s magnetic field, creating beautiful greenish-blue lights in the sky. The lights, which usually appear near the North and South Poles, appear like a natural light dance and are occasionally seen in other areas when the Sun is very active. The colors and movements of the lights depend on how high they are in the sky and what they bump into. For more technical info on the Northern Lights, you can check out this link at Space.com.

Prime Destinations to See the Northern Lights

Popular destinations to see the Northern Lights include Tromso, Norway, Yellowknife, Canada, Fairbanks, Alaska, and other countries near the Arctic Circle, such as Greenland, Iceland, Sweden, and Finland. Clear, dark skies and minimal light pollution are crucial for optimal viewing of the aurora borealis. These areas offer the possibility of witnessing the captivating light display and various activities during the visit. I picked Tromso over Yellow Knife based on the available deals and the prospect of visiting Scandinavia.

Self-Guided or Tour Group?

When planning a trip to see the Northern Lights, one must consider whether to go self-guided or use a tour operator. While self-guided trips offer flexibility, they come with risks, such as treacherous driving and being in unfamiliar, uninhabited areas. On the other hand, tour operators provide expertise and safety but may limit flexibility and incur additional costs. Tour packages are available for smaller (vans) and larger (buses) groups and may offer opportunities to meet and experience the Northern Lights with travelers from all over the globe.

We used two tour companies during our visit: Artic Experience, a small owner-operated one, and a larger one called Chasing Lights.

What to Expect in Terms of Weather

Weather conditions play a significant role in Northern Lights viewing. You should expect exposure to extreme weather for extended periods, with limited or no nearby shelter. Chasing the lights involves moving from one location to another in search of optimal conditions for viewing the Aurora. It is not unusual for a Norwegian tour operator to cross into Finland to catch the lights. Plan for a flexible window that may last 4-10 hours, and dress for the cold. If your tour operators offer optional thermal wear and boots, it would be wise to take it. The extra protection helps.

Food, Water, and Restroom Considerations

You should be prepared with basic food such as granola bars, chocolates, and water supplies as you venture into remote areas where amenities are scarce and restroom facilities are non-existent. Tour operators typically set up campfires to keep warm and provide hot refreshments such as soup, hot chocolate, and ready-to-eat meals. And, if you do need a bio break, you have the whole wilderness to yourself.

The Art of Layered Clothing

Embrace layered clothing that includes base layers, thermal wear, insulated jackets, and waterproof outer layers, ensuring comfort and warmth in the frigid Arctic temperatures. If you live in a cold country, you may already have many components of clothing needed to bundle up and keep warm. The crucial difference between day-to-day living in a cold urban city and chasing the Northern Lights is the extended hours of exposure to frigid climatic conditions. Every piece of winter wear plays a part. If you are wondering what to pack, check out this post, Ultimate Winter Packing Guide for a Norway Getaway.

The Unpredictability of Northern Lights

You should know you could spend much money on a Northern Lights adventure and not see it. The phenomenon depends on various factors, such as weather conditions and solar activity, making it a hit-and-miss experience. As disappointing as it may be, managing expectations and being prepared for the possibility of not seeing the lights is essential. If your budget and time permits, it would make sense to plan for more than one trip out chasing the Aurora.

Photos Outshine the Naked Eye

The Northern Lights, when viewed with the naked eye, may appear less spectacular than through a camera. Cameras capture more light and detail over an extended period, allowing them to enhance the colors and features of the auroras. Cameras can also pick up colors that may not be easily visible to the human eye, especially in low-light conditions. Overall, the enhanced sensitivity and exposure capabilities of cameras contribute to capturing the full beauty and intensity of the Northern Lights that might not be as evident to the naked eye.

While it is possible to take pictures with modern smartphone cameras, videos may not come out well due to the dynamic and faint nature of the lights. Capturing high-quality images requires specialized equipment with a long exposure and a wide lens.

Red, Blue, and Purple Auroras are Rare

The Northern Lights are primarily green due to the prevalence of oxygen at high altitudes. When solar particles collide with oxygen, they produce green and yellowish-green colors, the most commonly observed hues in the Aurora Borealis. We were lucky to catch the Northern Lights on both the evenings we went looking for them. However, the ones we saw were all of the green variety.

Your journey to witness the Northern Lights promises an awe-inspiring adventure that transcends the ordinary. Whether embarking on a self-guided exploration or opting for the expertise of a tour operator, the proper clothing, supplies, and camera gear will ensure your experience is a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with the magic of the universe.