Roald Amundsensplass : Tromsø : Seek The Aurora

Tromsø

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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.

Credit: Tobias Bjørkli
Credit: Tobias Bjørkli
Credit: Tobias Bjørkli
Credit: Tobias Bjørkli
Credit: Tobias Bjørkli
Credit: Ekam Juneja

How are my chances of seeing the aurora today?

16%

There is a 16% chance of seeing the aurora overhead in the Tromsø area (forecast for 2 August 2025 at 11:02pm 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.

Bz 6 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 0.30 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 494.5 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.

Clouds

12°C Feels like 12°C

High: 25°C
Low: 12°C

Precipitation: 0%
Cloud cover: 26%
Wind: 4 km/h

Moon

Waxing gibbous

Sun rises at: 2:37am
Sun sets at: 11:02pm

Book an amazing adventure in Tromsø

Free cancellation

Husky Sledding Self-Drive Adventure in Tromso

4.9 (673)

4 hours From £252.21

You will be driving your own sled and team of dogs in pairs, an experienced guide will lead your tour on the trail (group size is 20 guests maximum) - Drive your own team of huskies, in pairs you will share control of a dog sled and team of 5-6 Alaskan Huskies - Training is provided on how to control your sled and an experienced guide will lead your tour on the trail - 70-80 minutes of dog sledding in the Arctic wilderness - Afterwards, enjoy cake and a warm drink in the Lavvu - All necessary equipment to keep you safe and warm is provided. Minimum age 7 years Join us for the experience of a lifetime, mushing your own team of dogs across the Arctic wilderness. Meet our kennel of 130 beautiful Alaskan Huskies. These are the running dogs of the Arctic, born and bred with a passion to pull. You will have plenty of opportunities to swap between driver and passenger throughout the trip, as well as a chance to cuddle the dogs once back at the kennel.
Free cancellation

Silent Whale Watching

4.6 (776)

8 - 9 hours From £149.82

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

Tromsø: Aurora Hunt with Citizen Science with Wandering Owl

4.8 (1954)

5 - 8 hours From £184.45

Come with us for your Aurora hunt for an amazing and ethical experience underneath the Aurora Borealis. Leave the light pollution in Tromsø behind and travel into the Arctic wilderness. During this tour, our small team of Aurora guides check the forecasts & use local knowledge to decide on the best place to chase the Northern Lights. When we find the best spot, we will dress in warm thermal suits and boots, make a cosy campfire, and enjoy a homemade meal. You'll be shown how to use your camera, photograph the Aurora, and our guides will take photos of you, available for free in web-sized resolution after the tour. During our time together in the wilderness, we will collect data for a citizen science project and help protect the Arctic nature through responsible tourism. Enjoy our hot chocolate before being returned to Tromsø island to your hotel. Though there is never a guarantee of seeing this phenomenon, our experienced team will do their best every night of the season.
Free cancellation

Fjord Adventure Tour in Tromsø with Wildlife and Lunch

5.0 (24)

4 - 5 hours From £104.65

Explore the stunning fjords of Tromsø on a guided minibus expedition that takes you through steep mountains and frozen lakes. This tour offers multiple stops to appreciate the breathtaking nature and spot local wildlife, including sea eagles, reindeer, moose, and otters. A professional photographer will accompany you, providing tips on capturing the Arctic landscape's beauty and insights into the local flora and fauna. Conclude your adventure with a seaside lunch, perfect for reflecting on the day's experiences. - Guided tour through Tromsø's breathtaking fjords - Spot diverse wildlife including sea eagles and reindeer - Photography tips from a professional to enhance your skills - Enjoy a seaside lunch to wrap up your memorable day
Free cancellation

Northern Lights Minibus Chase

4.8 (1041)

7 - 10 hours From £180.69

Tromsø’s Premier Aurora Experience Dive into the Arctic’s magic with Tromsø's leading Northern Lights tour. Why are we different? Aurora Portrait Mastery: More than just a sighting – we craft perfect Aurora portraits. A cherished keepsake with loved ones set against the mesmerizing Northern Lights. ⭐ Proven Excellence: Boasting nearly 2,000 'Excellent' TripAdvisor reviews and a place in its Hall of Fame. Trusted by over 45,000 guests since 2012. 90% Success Rate: Witness the Northern Lights dance with confidence, thanks to our unmatched hit rate. Ultimate Arctic Comfort: Focus on the auroras in our top-tier winter gear, designed for warmth and comfort. Experience the Arctic with Tromsø’s Aurora masters. Memories await; make them monumental with us. Secure your once-in-a-lifetime slot today. Tour conducted by us, or our premium partners that have identical tours.
Free cancellation

Reindeer Sledding and Feeding with Sami Culture in Tromso.

4.6 (184)

4 - 5 hours From £165.25

You will get the opportunity to know the Sami culture and join a pleasant Reindeer Sledding in beautiful North Norwegian nature. Saami are the indigenous people of the North and our Sami guide would like you to get to know his culture better, both past, present and future, through tasting some typical Sami food, seeing Sami artifacts and hearing stories and traditional Sami singing. * If conditions change we keep the right to amend the duration of the sled-ride. * All animals used for these services are trained for the activity, however, the behavior of animals can be unpredictable and therefore it is essential that all participants follow all given instructions for their safety, and the safety of others. *Each reindeer and sled are bound together in a long row with the lead reindeer in the front. * Sleds are shared, 2 participants on one sled. *Reindeer Sledding is subject to snow and if weather conditions don't allow us to run the sled-ride we will offer you a partial refund.