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.

Longyearbyen

Home / Svalbard / Longyearbyen

Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure in one of the most remote and breathtaking places on Earth? Longyearbyen, the most northerly settlement in the world with a population over 1,000 people, is a spectacular destination that offers an extraordinary chance to witness the awe-inspiring northern lights. Nestled in the heart of the Svalbard archipelago, this charming town is surrounded by stunning mountains and vast arctic landscapes, making it the perfect base for your northern lights expedition.

Positioned well above the Arctic Circle, The Northern Lights season in Svalbard runs from late September until mid-March and the best time to view the auroras is typically between 6pm and midnight, while there is also a good period between 4am and 8am. For optimal viewing conditions, consider visiting during the Polar Night (from late November to mid-February), when the region experiences 24 hours of darkness, enhancing the visibility of the lights. In December and January, it’s even possible to see the Northern Lights around the clock – even in the middle of the day.

How are my chances of seeing the aurora today?

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

2%

There is a 2% chance of seeing the aurora overhead in the Longyearbyen area (forecast for 11 July 2026 at 2:03am UTC)

Kp 3.00

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 39 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 Longyearbyen

Rain

9°C Feels like 8°C

High
10°C
Low
7°C

  • Chance of precipitation 100%

  • Cloud cover 100%

  • Southerly winds 5 km/h gusts of 8 km/h

  • Rain 6 mm

Book an amazing adventure in Longyearbyen

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

  • Free cancellation

    Svalbard Icebreaker Cruise and Arctic Floating Adventure

    No reviews

    7 hours From £347.25

    Explore the magnificent fjords of Svalbard on a thrilling 6-hour cruise aboard the icebreaker M/S Arktis. Experience the unique Arctic floating program where you can safely float in the Arctic Ocean, equipped with a survival flotation suit. Enjoy a warm vegetarian soup for lunch while taking in breathtaking views of Isfjorden and the chance to spot seals, seabirds, and possibly even whales or polar bears. With expert guides onboard sharing insights about the Arctic environment, this trip offers an unforgettable connection to nature in one of the world's most exotic locations. - 6-hour cruise from Longyearbyen with hotel pick-up included - Optional Arctic floating experience with all necessary equipment provided - Warm vegetarian soup served during the journey - Opportunities to observe Arctic wildlife and stunning landscapes

  • Free cancellation Private tour

    Svalbard Discover the Mining Settlement of Pyramiden

    4.5 (2)

    8 hours From £863.78

    What makes this tour unique is that it's catered to photographers and adventurers in that your private guide is more than just a tour guide – they’re a certified photographer and able to, apart from just showing you the sights, help you compose the perfect photograph in terms of composition, aperture, what lense to use and so forth. Add to that your certified photographer Photo Exploring guide will be together with you the whole day.

  • Free cancellation Private tour

    Explore the Legendary Town of Longyearbyen

    5.0 (1)

    3 hours From £212.69

    You’ll be picked up at your hotel by a local, experienced guide that will show you not only this fascinating town, but some of their favorite photography motifs as well. On this relaxing walking tour you’ll get intimate knowledge of off-the-beaten-path vistas and wind up with an unparalleled experience offered by no other services - in that ours is not just a tour of the city, but a tour based on photography. From late October to mid-February, Longyearbyen is wrapped in the magic of the polar night. Though the sun doesn’t rise, the soft blue twilight and snow-covered landscape create an unforgettable setting—perfect for capturing the northern lights and the unique Arctic atmosphere. During this period of time expect crisp, cold weather, typically between -13°C and -25°C (9°F to -13°F). The chill is part of the adventure—and with the right warm layers and sturdy winter boots, you’ll be comfortable and fully able to enjoy the serene beauty of the Arctic

  • Free cancellation Special offer

    Longyearbyen：Global Seed Vault In-depth Tour 2h

    No reviews

    2 hours From £131.95

    Begin your adventure with a pickup from your hotel in Longyearbyen. Hop aboard a modern taxi and set off on a journey through the rugged terrain of the Svalbard archipelago. As you wind through streets lined with iconic, brightly colored wooden houses, discover the unique charm of the world’s northernmost permanent settlement. The undisputed highlight is the Svalbard Global Seed Vault. While the interior remains off-limits to protect its precious cargo, the bus stops at a prime vantage point 150 meters away. Here, witness the striking architecture embedded deep into the mountain—a biological "backup" for civilization guarding millions of seeds. Unlike other tours, we will stop here for half an hour, giving you ample time to take photos. The journey concludes at a final stop at the world-famous “Watch out for Polar Bears” sign for that quintessential, bucket-list Arctic photo.

  • Free cancellation Private tour

    From Longyearbyen photo tour: Mysterious Barentsburg

    No reviews

    10 hours From £863.78

    What makes this tour unique is that it's catered to photographers and adventurers in that your private guide is more than just a tour guide – they’re a certified photographer and able to, apart from just showing you the sights, help you compose the perfect photograph in terms of composition, aperture, what lense to use and so forth. Add to that your certified photographer Photo Exploring guide will be together with you the whole day.

  • Private tour

    Svalbard Summer Micro Cruise Private 8 Day Tour

    No reviews

    8 days From £13021.81

    We are a micro cruising company. With only 12 guests on board our departures, we have the ability to go where other larger ships do not. This small presence is sustainable and limits disturbance to wildlife and the environment.

Places to check out around Longyearbyen

Explore more nearby Longyearbyen

  • Barentsburg, Svalbard og Jan Mayen

    Credit: Chris-Håvard Berge

    Barentsburg

    78°3'59"N, 14°12'59"E

    Aurora probability in Barentsburg: 2%

    The Russian mining village of Barentsburg offers a unique glimpse into Arctic life, with its Soviet-era architecture and rich history set against the spectacular backdrop of Isfjorden.

  • Tundra, Ny-Ålesund, Svalbard

    Credit: patano

    Ny-Ålesund

    78°54'59"N, 11°55'59"E

    Aurora probability in Ny-Ålesund: 1%

    Ny-Ålesund, the world’s northernmost permanent settlement, is a research hub surrounded by stunning Arctic landscapes, attracting scientists and adventurers with its unique environment and historical significance.

  • Soviet monument, Pyramiden Spitsbergen Svalbard

    Credit: Sebastian Bjune

    Pyramiden

    78°40'59"N, 16°23'59"E

    Aurora probability in Pyramiden: 1%

    Pyramiden one of the worlds most famous ghost towns, offers a haunting glimpse into the past with its abandoned Soviet-era buildings and striking surroundings, attracting adventurous travellers eager to explore its unique history.

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