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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
Credit: Munir Rani
Credit: Bit Cloud

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.

30%

There is a 30% chance of seeing the aurora overhead in the Tromsø area (forecast for 6 November 2025 at 5:26pm UTC)

Kp 2.33

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 -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.

Density 3.29 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 524.8 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 gibbous

Sunrise 8:35am

Sunset 2:20pm

Rain

7°C Feels like 4°C

High: 7°C
Low: 5°C

Chance of precipitation 100%
Cloud cover 100%
Westerly winds 8 km/h gusts of 9 km/h
Rain 14 mm

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: Aurora Hunt Eco Tour with Wandering Owl

4.8 (2034)

5 - 8 hours From £146.26

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 Special offer

Silent Whale Watching by hybrid-electric boat

4.6 (802)

7 - 9 hours From £137.87

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 Likely to sell out

Reindeer Sledding Experience and Sami Culture Tour from Tromso

4.7 (473)

4 hours From £153.19

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

Tromsø: Northern Lights Adventure with Free Photos

4.7 (57)

6 - 8 hours From £107.00

Witness the enchanting Northern Lights on this unforgettable adventure in Tromsø, Northern Norway. Guided by a local expert, you'll explore the Arctic landscapes while chasing the aurora borealis. Enjoy the warmth of provided thermal suits and indulge in a light snack as you gather around a fire, soaking in the magical atmosphere. A professional photographer will be on hand to capture your moments, ensuring you leave with stunning keepsakes of this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Chase the Northern Lights in the stunning Arctic landscapes of Tromsø. Guided by a knowledgeable local expert for the best viewing spots. Stay warm in provided thermal suits and enjoy a light snack. Capture memories with a professional photographer during the adventure.
Free cancellation Likely to sell out

Husky Sledding Self-Drive Adventure in Tromso

4.9 (673)

4 hours From £257.88

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 Likely to sell out

Sami Culture and Short Reindeer Sledding from Tromso

4.7 (553)

4 hours From £137.79

Visit a reindeer camp outside of Tromsø on this 4 hour tour that introduces you to a little Sami culture. You'll have a chance to feed a herd of 300 reindeer, take a 10-15-minute reindeer sled ride, and then gather inside a Sami tent for a hot meal and to hear stories about Sami culture around the campfire. A guide also performs a joik, traditional Sami folk song.