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.

Levi

Home / Finland / Levi

Levi, located in the heart of Finnish Lapland, is one of the top destinations in Finland to see the Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis. This popular winter resort is famous for its pristine ski slopes, cozy villages and stunning Arctic landscapes. However, the real highlight is witnessing the spectacular Northern Lights dancing across Levi’s clear, dark skies.

Thanks to Levi’s remote location, far from city lights, visitors can enjoy some of the best conditions in Finland for viewing the Aurora. The best time to see the Northern Lights in Levi is from September to March, when the nights are longest and the skies are clearest. Plan your trip to Levi, Finland for an unforgettable Northern Lights experience and enjoy a range of winter activities such as skiing, snowmobiling and dog sledding.

How are my chances of seeing the aurora today?

Many factors contribute to your likelihood of viewing the aurora in Levi. 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

There is a 1% chance of seeing the aurora overhead in the Levi area (forecast for 27 July 2026 at 2:52pm UTC)

Kp 1.33

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 13 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 4 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 3:12am

Sunset 11:41pm

Weather Forecast for Levi

Rain

18°C Feels like 17°C

High: 19°C
Low: 12°C

Chance of precipitation 100%
Cloud cover 87%
Southerly winds 4 km/h gusts of 11 km/h
Rain 3 mm

Book an amazing adventure in Levi

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

Free cancellation

Self-driving Husky Tour 5km in Levi

5.0 (2)

2 hours 30 minutes From £155.79

Meet the happy Huskies in Lapland and learn to mush a team of huskies on your own! Before the we embark on a quiet but exhilirating tour into the woods, your guide will give you a little insight the life of huskies and driving instructions.
Free cancellation

Ice Fishing on a Frozen Lake in Levi

4.7 (13)

3 hours From £91.38

How to catch fish when it’s hiding under a one-meter layer of ice? You will learn that and much more, as we take you ice fishing on a frozen lake amidst beautiful winter scenery. This experience starts at our meeting point in Levi to get all the equipment for ice fishing. After, we travel around 20 minutes to reach the ice-covered lake. Then it is all about fishing! We walk on top of the lake on a thick layer of ice and find the best spots for the day. The main activity is of course ice fishing itself, but the frozen lake offers also an ideal setting for landscape and wildlife photos. We will also set up a campfire and enjoy some hot drinks and snacks – and if there is big enough catch, we can fry the fish too!
Free cancellation Private tour

Private ATV/ UTV Adventure with Campfire

5.0 (1)

3 hours From £286.34

Feel the crisp autumn air and witness the stunning colors of Lapland’s fall wilderness on this thrilling ATV adventure! Ride through winding forest trails, across rugged terrain, and past breathtaking Arctic landscapes, where golden birch trees and deep red tundra create a magical atmosphere. This action-packed safari offers the perfect mix of adrenaline and nature, with opportunities to spot local wildlife preparing for the winter season. Your guide will provide a detailed safety briefing and ensure you're equipped with all necessary gear. Whether you're a seasoned rider or trying an ATV for the first time, the route is tailored to your experience level, guaranteeing a safe yet exhilarating ride through Lapland’s untouched wilderness. Midway through the journey, we’ll take a break at a scenic campfire spot, where you’ll warm up with a traditional Arctic BBQ. Enjoy grilled sausages and warm drinks while soaking in the peaceful fall surroundings and the fresh, earthy scent of autumn.
Free cancellation

Half-Day Backcountry Skiing Tour in Levi with Photography Guide

5.0 (7)

3 - 4 hours From £100.09

Back-country skiing is both a fascinating sport and an age-old, environmentally friendly way of getting around in Arctic conditions. On our back-country skiing adventure, we use specialist skis that represent the newest innovation in Finnish wilderness exploration. These skis enable us to move away from known tracks and head directly into the deeper snow. The tour is guided by a professional photography guide who will share his knowledge in landscape and nature photography, so you can get the photos you desire. Expect some unforgettable landscapes and opportunities for photography! If we get lucky, we might also encounter some wildlife. During this journey in nature, we will find a place for us to build a fire and prepare some light snacks on the open fire.
Free cancellation

Husky Safari from Levi 2 KM or 5 KM with Husky Sledge Ride

4.2 (35)

2 hours From £147.08

On a husky tour, you’ll visit a local husky farm where friendly, excited dogs are ready to meet you. You’ll learn about their life, training, and care, and have the chance to pet and take photos with them. Then, you’ll ride through snowy landscapes in a sled pulled by the huskies — either as a passenger or even trying out driving, depending on the tour. Along the way, you’ll stop to enjoy the views, warm up with hot drinks, and hear stories from the guide. It’s a fun and unforgettable way to experience Lapland’s nature and traditions.
Free cancellation Private tour

Private: Snowmobile Safari from Riverside Lodge - 3h

5.0 (11)

3 hours From £190.60

Skip the crowds and discover the wild beauty of Lapland on your own terms with this Private Snowmobile Safari. Starting by a pickup from your accommodation, we will take you to our secluded riverside Hideout at Levi to prepare you for the thrilling safari. Ride through the frozen lakes and rivers, snowy forests and pristine wilderness with your personal local guide. Want to go fast? Great. In private group we can customize the speed for your preferences. Stop for a photoshoot? No problem, this is your experience! After the ride, warm up at our cozy private hideout with hot drinks by the fire - and if your up for it, take a quick dip in the ice hole like a true Finn! Duration of the tour: total 3 hours, with approximately 2 hours of riding time. All drivers must have valid drivers license. Minimum age of participant is 13 years. Pricing is on shared Snowmobile. Want to ride solo? Just tell us in advance (+65 EUR/person)! This can be paid on site.

Places to check out around Levi

Asia

Asian Restaurant
Coffee House

Coffee Shop
Colorado Bar & Grill

BBQ Joint
Ensilumenlatu

Ski Trail
Etelärinne

Ski Trail
Hullu Poro Areena

Night Club
Hullu Poron Kammi

Scandinavian Restaurant
Immeljärvi

Lake
Itärinteet

Ski Resort and Area
Kätkänranta Saunabaari

Sauna
Lapinkylä

Farm
Levi Bowling

Bowling Alley
Levi Ski Resort

Ski Resort and Area
Levi Spa Water World

Water Park
Levijärvi

Lake
Levin Etelärinteet

Ski Resort and Area
Levin Huippu

Mountain
Levin Rinteet

Ski Resort and Area
Levitunturi

Mountain
Niliporo restaurant, cafe & grill

Restaurant
Panimo & Pub

Brewery
Pannukakkutalo

Creperie
Panorama Sauna

Sauna
Pihvipirtti

Steakhouse
Pub Hölmölä

Pub
Ravintola Ämmilä

Scandinavian Restaurant
Ravintola Horizont

Apres Ski Bar
Ravintola Riihi

Restaurant
Ristorante Renna

Italian Restaurant
Tuikku

Apres Ski Bar

Explore more nearby Levi

Credit: Markus Wagner

Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park

67°47'59"N, 24°52'59"E

Aurora probability in Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park: 1%

Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park, located in Finnish Lapland, is known for stunning landscapes featuring rolling hills, pristine forests and crystal-clear lakes, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts seeking hiking, skiing and wildlife viewing experiences.
Credit: Adam Viski

Sirkka

67°47'59"N, 24°52'59"E

Aurora probability in Sirkka: 1%

Sirkka, is a popular destination for winter sports in Finnish Lapland, offering excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities alongside beautiful scenery and excellent conditions for viewing the Northern Lights.
Credit: Yves Scheuber

Ylläs

67°40'59"N, 24°52'0"E

Aurora probability in Ylläs: 1%

Ylläs, a popular ski resort in Finnish Lapland is a must visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure in the Arctic wilderness. It is renowned for its extensive ski slopes set in stunningly beautiful surroundings, as well as opportunities for snowshoeing, cross country skiing and witnessing the mesmerizing Northern Lights.