Best Time to See Northern Lights in Finnish Lapland

There are few natural wonders as magical and unforgettable as the northern lights. Dancing ribbons of green, violet, and red streaking across the Arctic sky—it’s no wonder that people from all over the world travel to Finnish Lapland in hopes of witnessing this celestial phenomenon. But when exactly is the best time to see northern lights in Finland? And how can you plan a trip that gives you the highest chance of seeing them?

At Aavalevi, we provide unique, cozy accommodations in locations perfectly suited for aurora viewing. In this guide, we’ll explain when to travel, what to expect, and how to make your northern lights experience truly unforgettable.

When Is Northern Lights Season in Finnish Lapland?

Many travelers assume that the northern lights only appear in the depths of winter, but the truth is that the aurora season in Lapland starts much earlier. Thanks to the region’s northern latitude and minimal light pollution, the aurora borealis is visible from late August to April—giving visitors a much broader window to plan their trip than most realize.

Late Summer and Autumn (August to October): A Hidden Aurora Season

One of Lapland’s best-kept secrets is the autumn aurora season. As early as late August, the nights become dark enough to reveal auroras, and with no snow on the ground, the dark forest floor creates a perfect contrast that makes the lights appear brighter and more intense.

In September and October, visitors enjoy milder weather, peaceful surroundings, and the stunning fall foliage that blankets the landscape in rich reds, oranges, and golds. This combination of beauty, calm, and great aurora visibility makes early autumn one of the most underrated times to visit.

Best Months to See the Northern Lights in Lapland

Auroras can be seen anytime during the dark season, but some months offer ideal conditions. Here’s a quick overview:

As this shows, autumn and early spring are often overlooked, even though they offer excellent viewing conditions and a more peaceful experience than the peak winter months.

What Time of Night Are the Lights Most Active?

The best chance of seeing the northern lights is typically between 9 PM and 1 AM, though they can appear any time it’s dark. Remote areas with little to no light pollution offer the best visibility.

Many of Aavalevi’s properties are ideally located in quiet, natural surroundings, far from urban light. Some even feature panoramic windows, glass roofs, or outdoor hot tubs, allowing guests to relax while waiting for the sky to come alive.

Tips for the Best Aurora Experience

To make the most of your northern lights adventure, keep these simple tips in mind:

• Stay for multiple nights: A stay of 3–4 nights or more increases your chance of catching the lights.
• Track aurora forecasts: Use apps like “My Aurora Forecast” to follow real-time activity.
• Dress for the Arctic: Even in autumn, nighttime temperatures can be chilly.
• Avoid artificial light: Choose accommodations away from streetlights and buildings.

What Are Northern Lights and How Do They Form?

The northern lights, or aurora borealis, are natural light displays that occur in the Earth’s polar regions. They are created when charged particles from the sun collide with gases in Earth’s upper atmosphere. These collisions produce colorful bursts of light—most commonly green, but sometimes also purple, red, and pink.

This incredible phenomenon happens high above the Earth, between 80 and 300 kilometers in altitude. While the auroras are visible on Earth’s surface, they are actually the result of space weather—making each display a unique blend of science and magic.

The northern lights are best seen near the magnetic poles, which is why Finnish Lapland, located well within the auroral zone, offers such frequent and clear sightings.

Why Finnish Lapland Is a Top Destination for Northern Lights?

Lapland stands out from other aurora destinations for several key reasons:

• High geographic location: Well within the auroral oval, giving excellent viewing potential almost every clear night.
• Low light pollution: Many rural areas offer crystal-clear skies without interference from artificial lights.
• Stable weather in autumn and spring: Compared to deep winter, these seasons often offer clearer skies, increasing chances of visibility.
• Other activities: Beyond auroras, visitors can enjoy hiking, husky safaris, reindeer experiences, and sauna culture, making the trip unforgettable – even on cloudy nights.

Choosing the right place to stay is key – and that’s where Aavalevi makes the difference, with accommodations chosen for both comfort and ideal natural surroundings.

Book Your Northern Lights Getaway with Aavalevi

Whether you’re dreaming of autumn colors beneath glowing skies, a snow-covered winter wonderland, or crisp early spring nights, Lapland offers a breathtaking setting to witness the aurora borealis.

At Aavalevi, we offer handpicked accommodations in Levi and Ylläs, two of the best places in Finnish Lapland to enjoy nature, silence, and unforgettable aurora views. Explore our beautiful properties and book your once-in-a-lifetime experience at Aavalevi.