The aurora borealis, or northern lights, appears when solar wind particles collide with air molecules in the earth’s atmosphere, transferring their energy into light. Displays can vary in intensity – from a glowing curtain of greenish yellow lights, dancing in the distance to a spectacular, multi-coloured fusion stretching across the sky – but whatever one you’re lucky enough to have, will no doubt make you want to see more.
However, it must be remembered that sightings of the northern lights can never be guaranteed, even when the conditions seem just right - a clear cloudless night is essential and for the most intense sightings, it is important to be away from any sources of artificial light, such as street lighting. But don’t despair if, for example, you’ve only planned a stay in Iceland’s capital as they have been known to light up the Reykjavik skyline on more than a few occasions! Sightings not only vary in intensity but in duration too, from just minutes to sometimes hours.
When is the best time to see the Northern Lights?
Usually
during the darkest period which is between November and February, although they can be seen as early as late August and as late as mid April. However, the phases of the moon also have an affect. If you have a full moon then it can greatly detract from the spectacle, whereas around the time of the new moon, if sightings are possible then they should be at their best. The 2008/9 Winter Dates of the New Moons are: Dec 27, Jan 29, Feb 25, Mar 26.
Although the northern lights can at times be seen as far south as the UK, you really need to travel north and visiting such places as Iceland, Greenland, Canada and Lapland during the darkest months of November to March, you’ll have some of the best opportunities possible. Potentially, nature’s own light show can be seen whilst on any of our winter holidays, some of which even have northern lights excursions. Visit the gateway pages below for our winter destinations.
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| Iceland Winter holidays |
| What a great place for a winter weekend and surprisingly good value. With our flexible arrangements you can go for three or more nights... |
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| Swedish Lapland |
| Fly direct to Swedish Lapland and choose from a selection of winter adventures and stay at the world famous ICEHOTEL. Alternatively travel via Stockholm and enjoy a fantastic city break. |
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| Finnish Lapland |
| Have a sensational weekend away in a cosy log cabin or be daring and opt for an igloo! Choose from a selection of impressive 'ice' hotels and country retreats. Excellent chances of viewing the northern lights. |
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| Norwegian Lapland |
| Visit the North Cape in Finnmark, Europe's most northerly point and stay in the awesome Alta Igloo Hotel. Optional activities and great opportunities to see the northern lights. |
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| New Year Holidays in the Arctic |
| Celebrate New Year in the warmth and magical atmosphere of Reykjavik, Iceland or in the pristine wilderness of Swedish or Norwegian Lapland... |
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Northern Light Excursions
- Sami Experience – whilst on this wonderful break in Swedish Lapland, an optional husky sledge excursion from Kiruna adds to adventure when in search of the northern lights.
- Musk Ox & Glaciers, Greenland – In a stunning fjord in west Greenland, on our Musk Ox and Glaciers tour there are ideal conditions for brilliant displays of the northern lights.
- Northern Lights Mystery – a special 3-4 hour excursion for those staying in Reykjavik, where you are whisked out of town to a special vantage point.
- Northern Lights by Superjeep – travel out of Reykjavik in a customised 4WD superjeep, on this 3-4 hour excursion.
- Northern Lights by Snowmobile – Stay at the famous Icehotel® in Swedish Lapland and take off for an exciting excursion through a snow clad forest and across a frozen lake. Wilderness snack and hot drinks included. And don’t forget, this Icehotel has Aurora Cabins with skylights for northern lights viewing from your bed!
- Kakslauttanen Holiday village – in the heart of Finnish Lapland with a choice of accommodation including glass igloos, where you’ll feel like you are sleeping under the stars!
Please note if booking a special excursion to view the northern lights, we recommend you do this on your first available evening - should the conditions not be right, other opportunities may then arise during your stay.
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Iceland
For other holidays featuring a stay at the Icehotel®, Sweden please 
