Find the best places in the world to view the Northern Lights

From the Arctic archipelago of Svalbard to the vast wilderness of Alaska, we help you find the best destinations for seeing the aurora borealis. Browse our guides for locations across Norway, Iceland, Finland, Sweden and Canada — with real-time aurora forecasts, cloud-cover predictions and optimal viewing seasons for each.

Canada

Dark skies and breathtaking wilderness, one of the best places to experience the northern lights in all their glory.

Banff •Churchill •Edmonton •Jasper •Whitehorse •Yellowknife

Faroe Islands

Dramatic landscapes with pristine dark skies, an exceptional place to witness the northern lights with a truly unique setting.

Tórshavn

Finland

Enjoy stunning aurora displays from cozy glass igloos or snowy forests in the magical northern wilderness.

Inari •Levi •Luosto •Rovaniemi

Greenland

The remote wilderness and minimal light pollution offer a breathtaking, serene setting to witness the northern lights in their purest form.

Ilulissat •Kangerlussuaq •Nuuk •Qaqortoq

Iceland

Breathtaking landscapes and long winter nights provide a spectacular backdrop for witnessing the aurora in a truly unforgettable setting.

Akureyri •Reykjavík •Vík

Norway

Stunning fjords and snowy peaks provide a breathtaking backdrop to the northern lights in one of the best locations to witness this natural spectacle.

Alta •Bodø •Lofoten •Tromsø

Shetland

A remote location and dark skies offer opportunities to witness the northern lights over rugged coastlines and peaceful seascapes.

Lerwick

Svalbard

Polar nights in the high arctic offer exceptional chances to witness the northern lights dancing across pristine, icy landscapes.

Longyearbyen

Sweden

Clear winter nights and pristine wilderness create an ideal place to experience the aurora in a magical Arctic setting.

Abisko •Björkliden •Kiruna

USA

Alaska’s vast wilderness and clear, dark skies create perfect conditions for experiencing the northern lights in a breathtaking natural setting.

Anchorage •Fairbanks •Healy

Plan your aurora adventure

Check tonight’s forecast, pick the best month to travel, learn what to pack and how to photograph the aurora. We’ve also got guides on chasing the lights from home and spotting them from lower latitudes when conditions are right.

Aurora Forecast

Stay updated with the latest aurora forecast including Kp-index, Bz, solar wind density and speed, plus a 3-day outlook, aurora map and top viewing locations.

Planning Your Northern Lights Adventure

When to go? What to wear? Things to consider when planning a trip to see the Northern Lights.

Northern Lights Photography

A complete guide to photographing the Northern Lights. Learn the best camera settings, equipment and composition tips for capturing stunning aurora photos.

Best Time Of Year To See The Northern Lights

When is the best time to see the Northern Lights? A month-by-month guide covering aurora season, solar cycles, equinox effects and what to expect throughout the year.

See The Aurora Without Leaving Your Home

Can’t travel to see the Northern Lights? Watch aurora live from home using webcams, livestreams, alert apps and space weather dashboards. A complete guide to remote aurora viewing.

Can You See The Northern Lights From Where You Live?

How far south can the Northern Lights be seen? A guide to aurora visibility by latitude, covering the UK, northern Europe, the US and beyond, including what Kp level you need and historic low-latitude sightings.

Discover the science, stories and sounds of the aurora

Learn how the solar wind creates the aurora, read about the myths and folklore behind the lights, browse a glossary of space weather terms, or put on a playlist while you wait for the sky to turn green.

Science Of The Aurora

Understanding the science behind the Northern Lights. Learn about the solar wind, Earth’s magnetic field and how charged particles create the stunning auroral displays.

Northern Lights Playlist

Pop on your headphones and relax. A curated playlist to accompany your Northern Lights experience.

Northern Lights Myths And Legends

Exploring the myths and legends surrounding the Northern Lights, from Norse Valkyries and Inuit spirits to Sámi beliefs, Finnish folklore and beyond.

Aurora Glossary

A comprehensive glossary of aurora and space weather terms. Understand Kp, Bz, solar wind, CME, substorms and more to improve your Northern Lights viewing.

Alta

Home / Norway / Alta

Alta. The name itself conjures images of snow-dusted landscapes, midnight skies ablaze with the ethereal green of the aurora borealis and the crisp, invigorating air of the Arctic. This charming town nestled in northern Norway is a haven for aurora hunters.

Alta is more than just a place to see the northern lights. It’s a gateway to the Sami culture, with its rich history and traditions. You can visit the Alta Museum and learn about the Sami way of life and even try your hand at snowshoeing or dog sledding.

How are my chances of seeing the aurora today?

Many factors contribute to your likelihood of viewing the aurora in Alta. Geomagnetic activity, cloud cover and the amount of ambient light all play a big part. Check the forecasts for how good the viewing conditions are today.

Aurora Probability and Atmospheric Conditions

16%

There is a 16% chance of seeing the aurora overhead in the Alta area (forecast for 10 July 2026 at 10:46pm UTC)

Kp 2.33

The Kp-index is a scale used to measure geomagnetic activity. It ranges from 0 to 9, with higher values indicating greater geomagnetic activity.

  • 0-2 (Very low) Far north, quite dim, and not very active.
  • 3-5 (Moderate) Can be seen further south, with increased brightness and activity. Chance of good viewing conditions nearer the pole.
  • 6-7 (High) Visible in many northern regions, with vibrant displays.
  • 8-9 (Extreme) Widespread visibility, often seen in areas much further south than usual, with intense and colorful displays.
HPI 26 GW

The Hemispheric Power Index (HPI) is a vital measure used to assess the strength of auroral activity at the poles. It estimates the total auroral energy input, with values above 20 GW indicating an aurora-active state. When the HPI reaches levels of 100 GW or more, it signifies a very significant geomagnetic storm, which can lead to spectacular auroral displays.

Bz -2 nT

Bz refers to the north-south orientation of the magnetic field embedded in the solar wind. It is measured in nanoteslas (nT).

When Bz is negative (southward), it allows solar wind particles to penetrate the Earth’s magnetic field more easily. A strong negative Bz is often associated with increased chances of seeing the Northern Lights.

Conversely, when Bz is positive (northward), the Earth’s magnetic field tends to block the solar wind, resulting in reduced aurora activity.

Bt 5 nT

Bt measures the overall power of the Interplanetary Magnetic Field (IMF) from the Sun; higher numbers (e.g., above 20 nT) mean more energy available for aurora.

Light Levels

Moon

Waning crescent 24%

Sunrise N/A

Sunset N/A

Weather Forecast for Alta

Rain

15°C Feels like 14°C

High
15°C
Low
10°C

  • Chance of precipitation 100%

  • Cloud cover 100%

  • Northerly winds 6 km/h gusts of 8 km/h

  • Rain 6 mm

Book an amazing adventure in Alta

Explore this selection of tours and activities to make the most of your visit to Alta.

  • Free cancellation

    Sleigh ride Under The Northern Lights

    5.0 (19)

    3 hours 30 minutes From £243.45

    Your best chance to see the northern lights in Alta is to be out under the night sky as often as you can. This tour takes you outdoors for a cozy “slow adventure” – a perfect way to spend an evening in good company on a leisurely local northern lights hunt. Your ride will take you through the forest and along the Alta River until you arrive at a wilderness shelter and take a break. A late, light dinner will be served around a fire, protected from the weather by the shelter’s half-wall. Along with conversation and local stories, if the conditions are right you might even have a chance to take a few pictures of the aurora in the sky!

  • Free cancellation

    Northern Lights Minibus Chase Max 16 Person In Group

    4.2 (18)

    4 hours From £157.06

    Small group at Max 15 person in a trip at 4 hours. Clothing is not included. Bonfire with some hot drink and snacks.

  • Free cancellation

    Northern Lights tour with Alta Adventure

    4.5 (129)

    4 hours From £179.05

    We offer a tour for a small group to enjoy togetherness and excitement while hunting for Northern Lights in the beautiful landscapes of the Altafjord. We arrange organized guided tours since 2007 and have the knowledge about how to find the Northern Lights if the conditions are there. On our tours you normally will have 80-90 % chance of seeing this spectacular view. Each tour is different, as we focus on finding the optimal place with the greatest chance of seeing the lights. We therefore sometimes have to drive quite far to find them, while sometimes we find them in the surrounding area. Necessary driving distance decide whether we establish a camp with a fire, or whether we serve hot chocolate and snacks at one of our short stops. While enjoying the great outdoors, we will share with you local stories about Norwegian way of living, local history from the Stone Age, Sami culture, reindeer-herding, 2nd World War and the modern society in Alta. We are normally back just over midnight.

  • Free cancellation Private tour

    Sleigh Ride w/ snacks - Experience Arctic Farm Life

    5.0 (63)

    2 hours 30 minutes From £141.36

    A perfect family exursion! Experience the nature and silence surrounded by snow-clad mountains in the valley of Mathisdalen and come join our family at Omdal farm. The sleigh is drawn by the horse breed known from the Disney movie "Frozen". The sheep you will meet, have the opportunity to be outside all year long, and in the summertime they lives side by side to the reindeer up in the mountains. You will also get a taste of the Sami way of life, when enjoying lokal snacks meal in a traditional Sami tent, called "lavvo". we only take small groups of up to 14 people.

  • Free cancellation

    Sleigh or wagon ride in the arctic Country side

    4.9 (34)

    3 hours From £172.77

    rctic countryside at a slower pace. Flatmoen Gård is the perfect spot to learn more about farm life in Northern Norway, and to connect to nature in a horse-drawn sleigh. Explore the Alta River valley with your friendly local hosts, and then take a break for delightful northern-Norwegian snacks, hot drinks and good conversation. We will even bring you here from Alta city center and back

  • Free cancellation

    Shared Altafjord Norway Day Tour

    No reviews

    4 hours From £194.13

    Embark on an unforgettable journey through the enchanting Alta Fjord, where nature, history, and wildlife come together in a truly immersive experience. Enjoy captivating birdwatching and encounters with diverse wildlife, and if you're lucky, catch a glimpse of playful dolphins along the way. Discover the rich history of the region, from its vibrant past and historic mining legacy to its role during World War II. Leave behind the stresses of everyday life as you embrace the tranquility of nature, the excitement of wildlife encounters, and the beauty of the fjord’s breathtaking scenery. Children under 6 years can maybe join. Must send a direct request to us beforehand. If you are susceptible to seasickness, take seasickness medication 3 hours before the tour starts.

Places to check out around Alta

Explore more nearby Alta

  • Blue wooden cabin surrounded by beautiful purple flowers, Kautokeino, Norway

    Credit: Andrea Maschio

    Kautokeino

    69°0'39"N, 23°2'29"E

    Aurora probability in Kautokeino: 17%

    Kautokeino, a remote town in Norway’s Finnmark region, is a cultural hub for the indigenous Sami people, offering visitors a unique opportunity to experience traditional Sami culture, reindeer herding and the stunning Arctic wilderness.

  • Two reindeer on the roadside going into Hammerfest, Norway

    Credit: Secret Travel Guide

    Hammerfest

    70°39'48"N, 23°40'57"E

    Aurora probability in Hammerfest: 14%

    Hammerfest, one of the northernmost towns in the world, is a charming Arctic destination known for its rich history, vibrant culture and stunning natural beauty, making it a must-visit spot for travelers seeking unique experiences in Norway’s far north.

  • The rugged coastline at Nordkapp, Norway

    Credit: Sayo Oladeji

    Nordkapp

    71°10'15"N, 25°47'2"E

    Aurora probability in Nordkapp: 14%

    Nordkapp, or North Cape, is a dramatic cliffside destination in northern Norway that offers breathtaking views of the Arctic Ocean and the midnight sun, making it a must-visit spot for travelers seeking to experience the raw beauty of the far north.

Other places in Norway

Bodø•​Lofoten•​Tromsø

See also

Home•​Aurora Forecast•​Planning Your Northern Lights Adventure•​Northern Lights Photography•​Science Of The Aurora•​Northern Lights Playlist•​Northern Lights Myths And Legends•​Best Time Of Year To See The Northern Lights•​See The Aurora Without Leaving Your Home•​Can You See The Northern Lights From Where You Live?•​Aurora Glossary