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.
-
Credit: stein egil liland
-
Credit: Sergei Merzliakov
-
Credit: Tobias Bjørkli
-
Credit: Steffen Rieck
-
Credit: Barnabas Davoti
-
Credit: Stig-Ove Pettersen
-
Credit: Geoff Puckridge
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
1%
There is a 1% chance of seeing the aurora overhead in the Alta area (forecast for 27 July 2026 at 12:00pm UTC)
Kp 2.00
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 15 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
Waxing gibbous 86%
Sunrise N/A
Sunset N/A
Weather Forecast for Alta
Rain
16°C Feels like 15°C
- High
- 17°C
- Low
- 13°C
-
Chance of precipitation 90%
-
Cloud cover 4%
-
Southerly winds 9 km/h gusts of 10 km/h
Book an amazing adventure in Alta
Explore this selection of tours and activities to make the most of your visit to Alta.
-
Northern Lights tour with Alta Adventure
4.5 (129)
4 hours From £175.19
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.
-
Northern Lights Minibus Chase Max 16 Person In Group
4.2 (18)
4 hours From £160.72
Small group at Max 15 person in a trip at 4 hours. Clothing is not included. Bonfire with some hot drink and snacks.
-
Small Group Northern Lights Hunt in Alta
5.0 (3)
4 hours From £176.71
Venture into the Arctic night for a captivating Northern Lights hunt, where the mesmerizing aurora borealis illuminates the sky. This 4-hour small group tour begins with an insightful presentation on the science and lore behind the Northern Lights. Guided by local experts, you'll explore the best viewing spots based on real-time weather forecasts while enjoying warming beverages and snacks. Experience the thrill of chasing this natural wonder in one of the world's prime locations for aurora sightings, enriched by the stunning wilderness of Alta. - Duration: 4 hours of Northern Lights exploration - Small group for a personalized experience, suitable for ages 8+ - Includes professional guide, lectures, and local history insights - Complimentary snacks, tea/coffee, and rental of camera tripod provided
-
Northern Lights Hunt and visit Arctic Animals
5.0 (2)
4 hours 30 minutes From £200.10
When darkness falls over Northern Norway, something begins that can best be described as part adventure, part science project – and just a little bit of madness: the hunt for the Northern Lights. Because yes – finding the aurora is a small science in itself. It’s not just about luck or pretty boots. The adventure begins with a heartwarming visit to some of Northern Norway’s most charming creatures – llamas, alpacas, woolly pigs, and horses. After that and the sky darkens, the real journey begins. In a small, comfortable group – never more than eight people – we set out on a calm, fun, and slightly mysterious chase. Along the way, we warm up with hot drinks and a selection of Norwegian delicacies – carefully chosen treats that tell the story of local traditions and northern flavors. Sweet and savory bites – perhaps a little chocolate, something smoked, something unexpected – and it will for sure taste even better under the stars.
-
3 Hours Fishing Adventures in Alta Fjord
5.0 (4)
3 hours From £150.84
Join us for an unforgettable fishing adventure in Alta Fjord, where you can reel in species like cod, coalfish, haddock, redfish, and Atlantic halibut. Upon request, we can filet and pack your catch, but you’ll need to take the fish with you after the tour. Experience the thrill of fishing in Northern Norway, savor the reward of catching your own fresh seafood, and enjoy the typically calmer waters of the fjord—though conditions may vary. 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.
-
Small Group Whale Watching by RIB
4.8 (12)
3 hours 30 minutes From £225.01
In winter, whales come to the herring-rich fjords in northern Norway to hunt. This is a unique opportunity to experience the whales up close while exploring the beautiful Fjords of northern Norway. You will get to enjoy the beautiful winter skies, while surrounded by mountains and the fjords wildlife. Once on the boat we will make our way out into the fjords to look for humpback whales and Orcas. We will keep a safe distance and turn off our boat engines to minimize the disturbance to the whales. The whales are just as curious about visitors as we are about them, so they will most likely come and swim around our boat. Please note that while we try our best, we can not guarantee that we will actually see whales on the trip. The season start and end date can be adjusted according to whale migration patterns. We conduct this tour in small groups of maximum 12 participants only to ensure a great and personal experience for all of our guests.
Places to check out around Alta
-
-
Alta River Camping
Campground
-
Alta Strand Camping
Campground
-
Aranya
Thai Restaurant
-
Barila
Bar
-
Bjørnfjell Mountain
Mountain
-
Camp Alta
Campground
-
Du verden
Gastropub
-
Erica Mat Og Vinbar
Pizzeria
-
Hjemmelufttoppen
Mountain
-
Komsa
Mountain
-
-
Peppes Pizza - Alta
Pizzeria
-
Seiland nasjonalpark
National Park
-
Skoddevarre
Mountain
-
Solvang camping
Campground
-
Uno Cafe
Café
-
Wing Wah House
Chinese Restaurant
Explore more nearby Alta
-
Credit: Andrea Maschio
Kautokeino
69°0'39"N, 23°2'29"E
Aurora probability in Kautokeino: 0%
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.
-
Credit: Secret Travel Guide
Hammerfest
70°39'48"N, 23°40'57"E
Aurora probability in Hammerfest: 1%
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.
-
Credit: Sayo Oladeji
Nordkapp
71°10'15"N, 25°47'2"E
Aurora probability in Nordkapp: 1%
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
See also
HomeAurora ForecastPlanning Your Northern Lights AdventureNorthern Lights PhotographyScience Of The AuroraNorthern Lights PlaylistNorthern Lights Myths And LegendsBest Time Of Year To See The Northern LightsSee The Aurora Without Leaving Your HomeCan You See The Northern Lights From Where You Live?Aurora Glossary
