
Northern Lights in Rovaniemi Lapland
Nature’s show of a lifetime
Also known as Aurora Borealis, the magical Northern Lights can be witnessed in Rovaniemi from late August until early April.
Once you see the spellbinding dance of the auroras, you’ll cherish it forever. There are many ways to catch the breath-taking moment, but it requires some luck as well.




How to see the Aurora Borealis?
How to see the Aurora Borealis?
Auroras show up in darkness. Catching the amazing phenomenon requires clear and dark sky and a viewing spot not affected by light pollution, like streetlights and neon signs.
In Rovaniemi, you don’t have to walk far from the city centre to find a good spot. Just step outside, gaze at the sky in the dark, and let the wonders of the Arctic Circle stagger you. But remember, even with perfect conditions, the auroras might not show – in this case, nature doesn’t give us guarantees.

Practical Tips for Northern Lights spotting
Practical Tips for Northern Lights spotting
- The Northern Lights commonly appear between 10 PM and 2 AM, but can at times be seen as soon as 7 PM. A show might last from only a couple of minutes to several hours.
- Dress warm and comfortable clothes – waiting for the Auroras to show up can take a while.
- Get away from light pollution – witnessing the Northern Lights requires proper darkness.
- If you see moon or stars at the sky, it is a great starting point – Auroras appear properly under a clear, cloudless sky.
- Let yourself enjoy – it may be a once in a lifetime experience!

Explore magical moments with local guide
Explore magical moments with local guide
Find the best spots with local guides. For a more complete aurora viewing experience, we warmly recommend joining one of the numerous Northern Lights tours in Rovaniemi.
Aurora hunts are available on snowmobiles, husky sleds, snowshoes, and in reindeer sleighs, just to name a few.

Hunting the Auroras
Hunting the Auroras
Expert local guides maximize your chances of seeing the auroras by taking you to special viewing spots while explaining the science and myths behind the phenomenon.
Dedicated guide will hunt the auroras to maximize the possibility to see the Northern Lights.
Explore more about Northern Lights

Northern Lights
Experience the magic of the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) in Rovaniemi. Find out viewing spots, times and more here.

10 Northern Lights activities
Aurora Borealis are visible from late August until end of March or beginning of April

Northern Lights tours

Seasons
Lapland, Finland is full of breathtaking phenomena and nature elements. The best time of travelling to Rovaniemi depends on what you are after – the constantly changing seasons all have their own characteristic light, temperature, natural phenomena and ideal activities.
Northern Lights Tours

Northern Lights Hunt Including Snacks on Campfire from Rovaniemi
Discover the magic of the Finnish wilderness on this 3-hour Northern Lights hunt from Rovaniemi. Travel deep into the Finnish…

Rovaniemi Northern Lights Photography Small-Group Tour
Experience the magic of Lapland and photograph the amazing Northern Lights!

Northern Lights Wilderness Tour with Professional Camera
Take your best chance to see the Northern Lights from Rovaniemi in small groups! With your personal guide and a minivan, you will explore the nature of Lapland and hunt the magic of the Aurora Borealis. Get ready for an unforgettable Arctic night!

Northern Lights Alert Login Key for Rovaniemi Area
Real-Time northern lights alerts to your phone

Auroras – Northern Lights Trip (photographing tour)
Lapland Welcome legendary evening trip for searching Aurora Borealis – the Northern Lights at the best possible spot. 21.8.-21.4.

Aurora Pro (short photography expedition)
Live an unforgettable once in a lifetime experience with our Aurora Hunting Expedition
Explore more Tips for your Rovaniemi holiday

Nature trails in Rovaniemi
Rovaniemi area is a versatile playground for day hikers. Explore the rugged wilderness, climb a fell, and wander in the relaxing sounds of nature

10 Romantic Winter Tips

Sustainable Travel Finland companies
The local companies and Visit Rovaniemi are taking part in the Sustainable Travel Finland (STF) program

8 Bucketlist souvenirs from Rovaniemi
Shopping in Rovaniemi