Bucket List: Prioritize The Northern Lights for Winter ‘25-’26
If you've ever had the Northern Lights on your bucket list, now’s the time to book it. And here’s why –
Every 11 years, the sun reaches solar maximum, which is the period of the greatest solar activity (more sunspots, stronger solar flares, etc.) – creating those jaw-dropping aurora displays you've only seen in pictures. Scientists predict this could be the most intense solar maximum in decades, with regions like the northern US and the United Kingdom potentially also getting a glimpse of the magic.
This is your chance to share the unpredictable, fleeting magic of the Northern Lights with your loved ones, inspiring celestial wonder & spectacular memories for years to come. Here's my breakdown of the best destinations to see the Northern Lights.
Best places to see the Northern Lights
The Northern Lights are visible from many destinations, so it's important to choose the one that's right for your style, pace, and budget.
The Nordics: Norway, Sweden, and Iceland are well known for their prime viewing. Plus, they offer dog sledding, ice fishing, and other authentic arctic experiences.
Faroe Islands: Located between Iceland and Norway, these islands are a great fit for travelers looking to get off the beaten path. Book a room at Hotel Føroyar for the best Northern Lights viewing.
Fairbanks, Alaska: No passport? No problem. Directly under the "Aurora Oval," Fairbanks is known for excellent aurora borealis viewing.
Northern Canada: You can technically see the Northern Lights in most of Canada, but to avoid coastal fog, head to the Northwest Territories.
Spotlight: Tromsø, Norway
Tromsø delivers Northern Lights with a side of local culture. This Arctic city sits in the sweet spot above the Arctic Circle where coastal weather patterns create clearer skies than you'll find inland. Enlist an indigenous guide—or Sámi—to add historic and cultural perspective with their centuries-old storytelling.
Spotlight: Eleven Deplar Farm
This award-winning lodge is set on the remote Troll Peninsula of Northern Iceland. You’ll find stylish rooms, upscale dining, and even a spa, but the best part is soaking in the geothermal pool while the Northern Lights glow overhead.
Cruises promise Northern Lights Viewing
Three cruise lines actually offer a Northern Lights Promise. Hurtigruten, Havila Voyages, and HX all sail ships directly through the aurora zone. And even if the aurora doesn’t show, you get a do-over—either a free cruise (Hurtigruten and Havila) or travel credit (HX) for another sailing. It’s a rare travel guarantee that takes the risk out of chasing one of nature’s most unpredictable shows.
Traveler Tips: Maximize Your Chances
Many of our tour partners offer guarantees, taking you out night after night until you see the auroras. However, it's important to remember that the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon and can never be fully guaranteed. Here is how you can maximize your chances:
Timing: Travel between September and early April, and plan around new moons and equinoxes. Plus, the best aurora usually appears within an hour or two of midnight.
Location: Choose destinations to minimize light pollution. The farther from city glare, the better. Connect with me to book some of my favorite remote hotels.
Chase smarter: Use the Space Weather Prediction Center's Aurora Forecast tool to be in the right place at the right time.
