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Tromsø

Home / Tromsø

Tromsø, often referred to as the "Gateway to the Arctic," is one of the best places in Norway—and indeed the world—to witness the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). This vibrant city, rich in culture and surrounded by stunning landscapes, offers an incredible experience for travelers seeking the magical dance of the Aurora.

Tromsø lies above the Arctic Circle, providing excellent visibility for the Northern Lights, especially during the winter months. The city is not only a prime Aurora viewing spot but also a cultural hub with museums, festivals, and local cuisine. The best time to see the Northern Lights in Tromsø is from September to April, with peak visibility from December to February when the nights are longest.

A visit to Tromsø for the Northern Lights is an unforgettable experience, blending breathtaking natural phenomena with rich cultural experiences. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a culture enthusiast, Tromsø offers something for everyone looking to explore the Arctic magic.

How are my chances of seeing the aurora today?

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

49%

There is a 49% chance of seeing the aurora overhead in the Tromsø area (forecast for 11 January 2026 at 2:56pm UTC)

Kp 2.67

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 96 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 -9 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 10 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.

Density 3.72 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 centimetre (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 474.9 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.

Moon

Waning crescent 46%

Sunrise N/A

Sunset N/A

Moonrise 2:28am

Moonset 9:02am

Clouds

-10°C Feels like -13°C

High
-6°C
Low
-10°C

  • Chance of precipitation 0%

  • Cloud cover 23%

  • Southerly winds 6 km/h

Book an amazing adventure in Tromsø

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

  • Free cancellation

    Tromsø: Northern Lights Adventure with Expert Guides and Photos

    4.4 (120)

    6 - 8 hours From £68.22

    Experience the Northern Lights on an Unforgettable Adventure in Tromsø, Northern Norway Join a local expert and explore the Arctic landscapes while chasing the magical aurora borealis. Stay warm in our provided thermal suits and enjoy a light snack by the fire as you soak in the enchanting atmosphere. A professional photographer will capture your moments, ensuring you leave with stunning keepsakes of this once-in-a-lifetime experience. These are shared as a complimentary courtesy after the tour. All our large buses come with onboard toilets, making your tour comfortable from start to finish. And if you’re unlucky enough not to see the Northern Lights, you’ll get 50% off your next trip! The meeting point and drop-off locations are conveniently within walking distance of many central Tromsø hotels, making your late-night return easy and stress-free.

  • Free cancellation Likely to sell out

    Reindeer Sledding Experience and Sami Culture Tour from Tromso

    4.7 (506)

    4 hours From £158.43

    Enjoy the Sami experience of reindeer sledding, where you'll enjoy a long sleigh ride (30 mins) pulled by a wild reindeer. Then feed a herd of 300 reindeer at the camp, and gather inside a traditional Sami tent for a hot meal and to listen to stories about Sami culture around the campfire. A Sami guide will also perform a joik, traditional folk song, for you, before return transportation to Tromsø.

  • Free cancellation

    Silent Whale Watching by Hybrid-Electric Boat from Tromsø

    4.6 (963)

    7 - 9 hours From £150.85

    Get a unique perspective on the majestic Humpbacks, Fin, Sperm whales and/or Orca's as they feed in the herring-rich fjords of the Arctic. With purpose made hybrid-electric boats for whale watching, we minimise disturbance to nature and whales. Leaving Tromsø in the morning, we head to where the whales are in time to enjoy the short hours of daylight. On the way you can take in the breathtaking views of frozen landscapes in comfortable, panoramic lounges and 2 decks. We use a hybrid engine to reach the whale’s feeding grounds, and as we near the whales, we switch to a silent electric engine that allows us to get closer without disturbing them. Please note that the duration of the trip depends on the whales’ location. It takes up to 3.5 hours to get to the whales and can therefore range from 8-9 hours. Please note that whale sightings are not guaranteed.

  • Free cancellation Private tour

    Tromsø: Northern Lights by Minibus - Free Photos and Warm Dinner

    4.9 (103)

    6 - 8 hours From £166.69

    Northern Lights in Focus is a small-group journey into the Arctic night, guided by people who live here and know how to read it. We leave the city behind and head into the wilderness, following weather forecasts, local knowledge, and real-time conditions to find the best possible place to experience the Northern Lights. There is no fixed route — every chase is shaped by clouds, light, and the Arctic itself. To keep you warm, insulated winter overalls are provided. During the night, we gather around a small campfire to enjoy a homemade meal, hot drinks, and something sweet. When the aurora appears, your guide — also a photographer — will take portraits of you beneath the lights. These photos are included and shared with you after the tour. Whether the lights are strong or subtle, this is about sharing a real Arctic night together! IMPORTANT – Spanish tour If you choose the Spanish tour, please contact us by email in advance to confirm guide availability.

  • Free cancellation

    Northern Lights Big Bus Chase with Chasing Lights

    4.9 (1589)

    5 - 9 hours From £106.13

    Budget-Friendly Northern Lights Chase – Offers an affordable way to hunt for the Northern Lights while maintaining comfort in a modern, heated bus. Flexibility to Find Clear Skies – Our route adapts based on weather conditions, sometimes taking us inland, along the coast, or even into Finland to maximize the chances of seeing the aurora. Transparency About Challenges – We prioritize finding clear skies over scenic locations due to increased road traffic. Stops may be alongside roads, but our goal is to provide the best possible view of the Northern Lights. Comfort with Realistic Expectations – The bus offers warmth, though it may cool down on particularly cold nights. Guests are encouraged to dress in warm layers for added comfort. Guided by Experts – Knowledgeable guides provide insights and help with photography, ensuring a memorable experience.

  • Free cancellation

    Reindeer Feeding and Sami Culture Including Lunch from Tromso

    4.7 (486)

    4 hours From £102.49

    The reindeer and the Sami have been living and working on this land for centuries and they have only recently invited guests to be part of their daily life. You will visit their camp and have a chance to feed the herd of around 300 wild reindeer who will swarm all around and some will even eat from your hands. You will then be invited for hot drinks around the fire inside a warm candlelit gamme (Traditional Sami Hut) where lunch, bidos, cooked over the open fire will be served (a traditional Sami stew which is often served at Sami weddings and other special occasions). After lunch you will be invited into a lavvu (Sami tent) and gather around the fire to listen to stories about Sami culture and how it is to be a reindeer herder. The Sami guide will also perform a joik (traditional Sami song) for the guests.

Places to check out around Tromsø

Discover Museums, Restaurants, Parks and more…

Explore more nearby Tromsø

  • Colourful wooden buildings by the water on Sommarøy island

    Credit: Stock Birken

    Sommarøy

    69°38'4"N, 18°0'46"E

    Aurora probability in Sommarøy: 48%

    Sommarøy, a picturesque island fishing village, offers stunning white-sand beaches and the magical experience of the midnight sun in summer and northern lights in winter, making it a true Arctic paradise.

  • Aurora Borealis in the sky over the sea and mountains on Kvaløya island

    Credit: Yoann Lechaux

    Kvaløya

    69°36'59"N, 18°32'59"E

    Aurora probability in Kvaløya: 49%

    Kvaløya is an island is a haven for nature lovers, with dramatic mountains, picturesque fishing villages, and excellent opportunities for whale watching and hiking.

  • Northern lights over Husøy

    Credit: Alejandro G

    Husøy

    69°32'20"N, 17°39'33"E

    Aurora probability in Husøy: 48%

    A tiny, charming village on the island of Senja, Husøy is a traditional fishing community with colourful houses clinging to the edge of the sea, offering a glimpse into the authentic Arctic lifestyle.

Other places in Norway

Alta•​Bodø•​Lofoten

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•​About Seek The Aurora