Ilulissat : Seek The Aurora

Ilulissat

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Ilulissat, located on the western coast of Greenland, is a breathtaking destination known for its stunning natural beauty and the spectacular Northern Lights.

The optimal time for viewing the Northern Lights is from November to March. This is when the skies are often clear, and the nights are longest.

Visiting Ilulissat for the Northern Lights is a magical experience that combines stunning landscapes with the thrill of one of nature’s most beautiful displays. Your adventure here will be filled with unforgettable memories, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler looking to connect with the natural world.

Credit: CHRISTIAN PFEIFER
Credit: CHRISTIAN PFEIFER
Credit: Rod Long
Credit: Aningaaq Rosing Carlsen - Visit Greenland
Credit: 66 north
Credit: David Stanley

How are my chances of seeing the aurora today?

24%

There is a 24% chance of seeing the aurora overhead in the Ilulissat area (forecast for 13 June 2025 at 1:39am UTC)

Kp 5.33

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.

Bz -11 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 auroral activity.

Density 11.88 p/cm³

Solar wind density refers to the number of charged particles in a given volume of the solar wind, typically measured in particles per cubic centimeter (p/cm³).

A typical solar wind density is around 2.76 p/cm³.

The density of the solar wind affects how many particles reach the Earth’s magnetosphere. A higher density means more particles are available to interact with the Earth’s magnetic field. When these charged particles collide with the gases in the Earth’s atmosphere, energy is released in the form of light that we see as the aurora.

Speed 441.9 km/s

Solar wind speed refers to the velocity at which charged particles are ejected from the Sun’s outer atmosphere, known as the corona.

A typical solar wind speed is about 375 km/s. When both speed and density are high, the energy transferred to the Earth’s magnetosphere increases, enhancing the chances of seeing vibrant auroras.

Clear

5°C Feels like 4°C

High: 5°C
Low: -2°C

Precipitation: 0%
Cloud cover: 2%
Wind: 5 km/h

Moon

Waning gibbous

Sun rises at: N/A
Sun sets at: N/A

Book an amazing adventure in Ilulissat

Private tour

Discover Gems of Ilulissat: A Walking Tour

3.7 (3)

2 hours From £188.40

Together with a professional guide, you will visit the most charming places in the city. You will have a chance to explore the city while hearing fascinating facts and legends. In direct translation, Ilulissat is the Kalaallisut word for "Icebergs". The nearby Ilulissat Icefjord is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has made Ilulissat the most popular tourist destination in Greenland. You will be surprised how many stories are hidden in the streets, buildings, and corners of Ilulissat. Your charming guide will tell you what is special and unique about living in this city. Perfect for those who are visiting the city for the first time and want to get the most out of it!
Private tour

A Romantic Journey Through Ilulissat

No reviews

2 hours From £188.40

Indulge in an exclusive tour tailored for couples in Ilulissat, Greenland. Guided by a local expert, explore the city's most beautiful spots, where nature and connection intertwine seamlessly. Discover the best places for a date, capture picturesque moments, and listen to hidden stories that echo through the city's streets. Discover Ilulissat's natural charm. Capture photos in many scenic locations. A great activity for the Valentine’s period. A private tour means a more intimate experience.
Private tour

Christmas Wonders in Ilulissat: Exclusive Walking Tour

No reviews

2 hours From £229.02

The exclusive tour only in the Christmas period! Together with the professional local guide, you will visit the most beautifully decorated places in Ilulissat. You will feel spellbound with a charming atmosphere, which you can feel only this time of the year! What is the story of the Christmas tree? Who was the first to decorate it in the world? What magical things can happen during the Christmas period? Have you heard about Christmas spells? You will hear miraculous Christmas legends about Ilulissat. Ilulissat is one of Greenland’s most iconic destinations, with its dramatic icefjord which sends a constant stream of beautiful icebergs drifting towards the Arctic ocean. Throughout the month of December and for much of January, the sun does not rise above the horizon in Ilulissat, which means that Christmas in Ilulissat is a real Arctic experience.What makes it so popular? What local products must taste at Christmas? Fill your heart with the joy and experience magic of Ilulissat.