Explore the 5 Best Places to See the Northern Lights in 2024

The northern lights, also known as the aurora borealis, are one of our planet’s most ethereal natural wonders. This astrological phenomenon is characterized by streaks of green-, purple-, and blue-colored light in the night sky. Visible most predominately around Earth’s geomagnetic poles, the aurora borealis is not actually caused by any occurrence on our planet. Instead, it is caused by activity on the surface of the sun! To be more specific, solar storms — or wind — on the sun release huge clouds of electrically charged particles. This creates light that is visible all the way back on Earth. This process is responsible for creating the eye-catching nighttime colors that so many people seek out each year.

Having said that, let’s explore the top five best places to see the northern lights in 2024. From remote islands to secluded towns, read on to discover the most breathtaking destinations with the highest chances of spotting this mesmerizing polar light show!

1. Tromsø, Norway

One of the best places to see the northern lights in 2024 is Tromsø, Norway. Also known as the “Gateway to the Arctic,” it is considered the best of the best due to its prime location within the “auroral oval.” This region, centered on the geomagnetic pole, is where auroras are most commonly seen. Plus, Tromsø’s dry climate and clear winter skies further elevate the viewing experience of the northern lights year after year!

The best time to visit Norway to see the aurora borealis is anytime between late September and late March. If you have some flexibility, try to make it out to Tromsø during the peak months of October and February. This will maximize your viewing experience and give you the very best chances of seeing these vibrant lights! In addition to this celestial spectacle, visitors to Tromsø can also try their hand at dog sledding or snowmobiling. If you are up for more adventures, there are numerous businesses offering reindeer sleigh rides throughout the winter months, too!

2. Abisko, Sweden

It is well known that Scandinavian countries are revered for their prominent northern light sightings. So, when it comes to Sweden, it comes as no surprise that it’s considered one of the best places to see the northern lights in 2024! To pinpoint the very best location for spotting the aurora borealis, tourists will have to head to the northern city of Abisko. Located within the Arctic Circle, this small village town has gained popularity for its clear skies and minimal light pollution. This makes it one of the most ideal spots to visit if you hope to spot the northern lights. Beyond that phenomenal experience, visitors can also explore Abisko National Park, which is known for its breathtaking hiking trails and legendary scenery!

3. Reykjavík, Iceland

Some might say the gloomy, dark winters in Iceland are a disadvantage, but that is the exact same reason why it is one of the best places to see the northern lights! Reykjavík, the capital of Iceland, is actually one of the most popular destinations in the country for those seeking out this popular bucket list experience. Visitors to Reykjavík, Iceland, can embark on northern lights tours directly from the city. Alternatively, they can adventure into the remote countryside to get an even clearer view of the skies! In addition to that, Iceland also boasts a wide variety of other natural wonders. Some of the most famous include destinations like the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa. Reynisfjara, the iconic black-sand beach located in southern Iceland, is another popular spot for both tourists and locals. There are many exquisite waterfalls scattered throughout the country that you can explore as well!

4. Yellowknife, Canada

If you’re a North American native, don’t fret! There are actually a few places you can visit to see the northern lights that don’t require an international flight! If you hope to see this solar phenomenon sometime this year, Canada should definitely be on your radar. Considered one of the best places to see the northern lights in 2024 is Yellowknife, located in Canada’s Northwest Territories. Though this spectacular light show occurs year-round, peak viewing times are between December and April. This is when the city sees almost nightly displays of the aurora borealis.

Apart from spotting the northern lights, those visiting Yellowknife can also enjoy ice fishing, snowshoeing, or a cozy weekend in one of the many local lakeside cabins! Plus, a trip to this Canadian city is fairly affordable thanks to its northern location, further adding to the overall desirability of this winter vacation destination.

5. Fairbanks, Alaska

The United States is probably not the first place that comes to mind when trying to figure out where to go to see the northern lights, but maybe it should be! Although sightings are possible in some midwestern states, Alaska is the only place in the United States that is truly renowned for excellent aurora borealis viewing opportunities. More specifically, Fairbanks has been singled out as one of the best places to see the northern lights in 2024! Thanks to its notoriously clear skies and interior location, this city offers some of the best views in all of Alaska. But make sure to visit sometime between August and April to maximize your chances of seeing the northern lights! If you go on vacation to Fairbanks around this time, you can also explore other popular winter activities like ice fishing and snowmobiling.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Guitar photographer/Shutterstock.com