Best Time and Place to See the Northern Lights in Lapland

Lapland: Where and When to See the Northern Lights?
Northern Lights – the Most Magical Experience in Lapland

Among all activities in Lapland, Northern Lights hunting is simply unmissable. These luminous veils dancing across the Arctic sky are one of the most powerful experiences you can live.

The magic is even stronger when you experience it in small groups, away from the crowds and artificial lights.

👉 But to have the best chance to see them, you need to know where to go and when to travel.

The good news: Finnish Lapland, especially its far northern regions like Muotkatunturi Wilderness Area, is one of the best places in the world to witness the aurora borealis.

In this guide, you’ll discover:

• the best seasons to see the Northern Lights,
• the top locations to maximize your chances,
• and how to prepare for your own aurora adventure.

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Best Time to See the Northern Lights in Lapland

You can observe the Northern Lights in Lapland from late August to mid-April, when nights are dark enough to reveal the celestial show.

Late Summer – August & September

• nights return after the Midnight Sun,
• mild temperatures and relatively stable weather,
• stunning nature with the Arctic autumn Ruska,
• auroras reflecting in unfrozen lakes, creating the unique “double aurora” effect.

Winter – October to April

The peak aurora season runs from September to March.

• December & January: polar night with 20+ hours of darkness and magical pink and purple skies.
• February & March: clearer skies, longer nights, more stable weather.

👉 March is often considered the best month: long nights, softer temperatures (-10°C to -2°C), fewer clouds, and still high solar activity.

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Where to See the Northern Lights in Lapland

For the best chances, travel far north, beyond the Arctic Circle.

Top location: Muotkatunturi Wilderness Area & Muotkan Ruoktu.

• virtually no light pollution,
• located within the aurora oval (prime aurora zone),
• up to 235 nights per year with visible Northern Lights.

Here, the night sky is truly black, and the auroras appear intense, colorful, and visible to the naked eye – a breathtaking sight.

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How to Travel During Northern Lights Hunts

• Skiing or snowshoeing – perfect for short trips right from your cabin.
• Snowmobile safaris – cover long distances quickly, escape clouds and light, stop on frozen lakes for 360° views.
• Snowmobile sled rides – relax and focus fully on the sky.

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Why You Need a Local Guide

Hunting the aurora without a guide is like looking for a needle in a haystack.

👉 With Kinga, our local Lapland guide, you’re in expert hands. She knows the best hidden spots in Muotkatunturi and adapts each outing to the weather and sky conditions.

• she increases your chances of success,
• shares practical photography tips,
• ensures safety in the Arctic wilderness,
• and creates a warm, intimate group experience.

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Bonus Tips – What to Bring

• a red-light headlamp (to protect night vision),
• a thermos with something warm,
• very warm clothing,
• a good camera or high-quality smartphone.

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Northern Lights in Lapland – Magic Beyond Mass Tourism

Aurora hunting in Muotkatunturi Wilderness Area is much more than sky-watching. It’s a deep immersion in Arctic silence and untouched landscapes, far from mass tourism.

👉 Ready to experience one of the most unforgettable thrills of your life under Lapland’s dancing skies?