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.

Yellowknife

Home / Canada / Yellowknife

Yellowknife, the capital of Canada’s Northwest Territories, is renowned for its breathtaking display of the Northern Lights. Nestled on the shores of Great Slave Lake, this vibrant city offers a unique blend of culture, adventure and stunning natural beauty.

Yellowknife is located directly under the auroral oval, making it one of the best places in the world to witness the Northern Lights, particularly from late August to mid-April. The region’s cold climate often results in clear nights, enhancing your chances of seeing this spectacular phenomenon.

Visiting Yellowknife to see the Northern Lights is truly a bucket-list experience, combining the magic of the aurora with the warmth of local hospitality. Yellowknife is home to Aurora Village. Are you ready to plan your adventure under the stars?

Credit: Ken Cheung
Credit: Ken Cheung
Credit: kwan fung
Credit: kwan fung
Credit: Ian Keefe
Credit: Sydney Haws
Credit: Luke Moore

How are my chances of seeing the aurora today?

Many factors contribute to your likelihood of viewing the aurora in Yellowknife. 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 6% chance of seeing the aurora overhead in the Yellowknife area (forecast for 27 July 2026 at 12:50pm UTC)

Kp 2.00

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 14 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 1 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 88%

Sunrise 4:46am

Sunset 10:41pm

Moonrise 11:05pm

Moonset 12:18am

Weather Forecast for Yellowknife

Rain

12°C Feels like 11°C

High: 17°C
Low: 10°C

Chance of precipitation 31%
Cloud cover 100%
Southerly winds 4 km/h gusts of 5 km/h

Book an amazing adventure in Yellowknife

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

4D3N Aurora Package (Chateau/Explorer Stay)Taiwan Mandarin Guide

4.4 (22)

4 days From £538.74

Note: This tour is not primarily conducted in English but is suitable for English-speaking tourists who are flexible with language. Stay at the top-rated Explorer Hotel or Chateau Nova. Our Aurora Lodge offers a spacious and cozy indoor area where you can comfortably wait for the Aurora without facing the cold or crowded vehicles. Package includes: ️24-hour airport pickup ️A city tour featuring must-see landmarks such as Pilots Monument, the Visitor Centre (where you can receive a certificate and a small knife), Ndilo, and Old Town. ️✅During the winter, enjoy the Ice Road, and in March, experience the Ice Castle. ️Free Aurora photos delivered via a drive link, allowing you to cherish the memories of your trip forever. ️Warm and cozy Aurora Lodge viewing, plus Aurora hunting. ️Experienced drivers and guides, with commercial vehicles equipped with $2 million in insurance, ensuring a safe and worry-free journey.
Free cancellation

Yellowknife: Aurora Chasing + Aurora Lodge

4.7 (130)

4 hours From £74.28

The best of both worlds, Aurora Chasing and Aurora Lodge! This is the Aurora Tour that allow you to have the cake and eat it too! On a cold and clear night, guests will spend more time in a spacious and warm Lodge near Madeline Lake and wait for the aurora show to begin. While waiting, there will be a display of various furs and animal products, guests will also have access to board games, cards, majong, arcades, foosball, and basket ball shooter. Light snacks and hot beverages are also provided. View the aurora in comfort, go to proper washrooms without freezing your butts off in comfort. On a night with roaming cloud, Guests will spend more time driving to clearer location to have better chance to see the Aurora. If the location of the Aurora Chasing is near the lodge, guests may use the lodge to rest and recuperate. Professional photographer will take guests photos and provide original digital photos to all guests at no additional charge.
Free cancellation Private tour

24 Seat Charter Bus Group Travel in Yellowknife North Canada

No reviews

3 - 10 hours From £326.84

Customized Itineraries-allowing flexibility to suit your group needs Comfortable and well maintained busses-Busses fully equipped for year round comfort Experienced Professional-drivers are well trained to navigate the challenging conditions of Yellowknife and the North Ideal for Groups and Events-we offer convenience and reliability for all types of trips Easy booking
Free cancellation

Northern Lights Tour Yellowknife

4.8 (399)

4 hours From £53.93

Wonderful and Amazing experience while going through the famous Ingraham trail to view the Northern Lights in our bus. There are lakes with breathtakingly beautiful landscapes on this trail for you to See Experience & Enjoy this wonderful Northern Lights tour with a tour guide who will click pictures for you. This type of tour is an amazing style of tour that increases your chances to see the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) with spectacular backgrounds and landscapes in your pictures at various lakes with amazing Northern Lights. This is the only Northern Lights tour in Yellowknife where you get "Your" free Pictures and complimentary snack. This tour is cost-effective and provides Pictures, Snacks, Pick & Drop. Important Info: This is a Nature tour. During winter months, Please make sure to dress warm or rent winter clothing from any Tour Operator in Yellowknife.
Free cancellation

Yellowknife Aurora Hunting Tours by Bus

5.0 (50)

4 - 5 hours From £52.84

Our expert guides are not only knowledgeable but also passionate about sharing their love for the Northern Lights with you. They know the best spots for viewing and will go above and beyond to ensure you have a memorable experience. We also prioritize comfort and convenience by picking you up directly from your hotel, so you can relax and enjoy the journey without any hassle. Additionally, our small group sizes allow for a more intimate and immersive experience, ensuring that you get the most out of your aurora hunting adventure. Finally, safety is our top priority. Our guides are trained in wilderness first aid and are equipped to handle any situation that may arise, giving you peace of mind as you embark on this incredible journey.
Free cancellation Likely to sell out

Yellowknife: Cameron Falls Hike + Shore Lunch 5hrs

4.7 (27)

4 - 5 hours From £87.16

A short hike of about 1.5 hour through the pristine Cameron Falls Trail to see the waterfall at its source. A chance to see various birds and fauna, including the all wonderful Chaga fungi. After the hike, guests will visit a luxurious lodge by Madeline Lake, and enjoy a great BBQ at a spectacular lakeside setting. After lunch, guests can relax around the lake by swimming or kayaking. Life jackets is available for all adults, but no life guard will be on duty. The entire tour has AC transportation from hotel to hotel, tour pick up around 11:00am and tour will end around 4:00pm.