GESSILS

AURORA BOREALIS (Northern Lights)

July 1, 2026

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The Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights, is a stunning natural light display that occurs in the polar regions. It is caused by charged particles from the sun colliding with Earth’s magnetic field and atmosphere, creating vibrant ribbons of green, pink, red, and purple light that dance across the night sky. This mesmerizing phenomenon has fascinated humans for centuries and is a must-see spectacle for travelers to northern latitudes like Norway, Sweden, Canada, and Alaska. Some of the best places to witness this spectacular phenomenon include:

Tromso, Norway: Often referred to as ‘The Northern Lights Capital of Norway’, Tromso offers excellent opportunities to see the Northern Lights. Its location within the auroral oval, the area with the highest probability of seeing the lights, makes it an ideal location.

Reykjavik and Icelandic countryside, Iceland: While the city of Reykjavik may have views of the Northern Lights, you’re better off heading into the countryside away from light pollution for clearer views.

Snow-covered cabin and trees by a frozen lake with northern lights and starry night sky

Abisko, Sweden: Located in Swedish Lapland, Abisko is famous for its clear blue skies, making it a great place to see the Northern Lights.

Rovaniemi, Finland: Located in Finnish Lapland, Rovaniemi and its surrounding areas provide stunning views of the Northern Lights. You can also visit Santa’s Village while you’re there!

Fairbanks, Alaska, USA: Alaska offers some of the best viewing opportunities in North America, especially around the Fairbanks area.

Yellowknife, Canada: Located in Canada’s Northwest Territories, Yellowknife is another prime spot in North America to see the aurora borealis.

Greenland: Almost anywhere in Greenland can have excellent views of the Northern Lights due to its location within the auroral zone.

Snow-covered log cabin with glowing windows under northern lights and crescent moon

Kangerlussuaq, Greenland: With over 300 clear nights each year, this is one of the best places in Greenland to view the lights.

Shetland Islands, Scotland: Located at the UK’s northernmost tip, the Shetland Islands can provide a stunning view when aurora activity is at its peak.

Murmansk, Russia:The largest city in the Arctic Circle, Murmansk is one of the best urban locations for viewing the Northern Lights.

While these are some of the most popular places to see the Northern Lights, it’s important to remember that the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon and sightings can never be guaranteed. You should check your local aurora forecast, plan to stay a few nights, and try to visit during peak months (usually September to March) for the best chance of seeing the aurora. Also, consider staying away from city lights to reduce light pollution and get clearer vision.

Abstract northern lights flowing luminous energy waves

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Travel also allows us to see beyond stereotypes and surface differences. When we connect with local people, share meals, listen to stories, or participate in traditions, we realize that many of our feelings—hope, fear, longing, and joy—are universal. These shared emotions help us recognize that, despite our cultural differences, we are all part of the same human family.

By exploring what we have in common, we can see how we’re connected and how we belong. These connections remind us that we are not alone in our feelings and struggles. Embracing our shared humanity fosters understanding, kindness, and a sense of community—building bridges that unite us all.