Aurora Borealis in Sweden: 7 Best Spots for Light Chasers
Sweden aurora borealis, also known as the Northern Lights, is a mesmerising natural phenomenon that draws countless visitors to the country’s northernmost regions. This celestial spectacle paints the night sky with vibrant hues of green, purple, and pink, creating an unforgettable experience for those lucky enough to witness it. As an avid aurora chaser and Swedish travel enthusiast, I’m thrilled to share with you the seven best spots to view this magical light show in Sweden.
1. Abisko National Park
Nestled in the heart of Swedish Lapland, Abisko National Park is widely regarded as one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. Its location within the aurora zone and its unique microclimate, which often results in clear skies, make it an ideal spot for aurora viewing. The Aurora Sky Station, perched atop Mount Nuolja, offers an unparalleled vantage point for observing the dancing lights.
For those seeking a truly immersive experience, consider staying at the nearby Abisko Mountain Station. Here, you can join guided tours, learn about the science behind the aurora, and even try your hand at photographing the Northern Lights in Sweden. The dedicated staff and exceptional facilities make it an excellent base for your aurora-hunting adventure.
2. Jokkmokk
Jokkmokk, a small town situated just north of the Arctic Circle, offers a unique blend of Sami culture and prime aurora viewing opportunities. The town’s location, away from major light pollution sources, provides excellent conditions for spotting the Northern Lights. Visit the Ájtte Swedish Mountain and Sami Museum to learn about the indigenous Sami people and their connection to the aurora borealis.
For an unforgettable experience, book a stay at one of the nearby wilderness lodges. These cosy retreats offer the perfect setting to watch the night sky come alive with the ethereal dance of the aurora borealis.
3. Kiruna
As Sweden’s northernmost city, Kiruna serves as an excellent base for aurora chasers. The city’s Arctic location ensures long, dark nights during the winter months, increasing your chances of spotting the elusive lights. Take a guided Northern Lights tour or venture out on your own to nearby lakes and forests for unobstructed views of the sky.
While in Kiruna, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the famous ICEHOTEL. This unique accommodation, rebuilt each winter from ice and snow, offers a magical setting for viewing the aurora. Imagine watching the Northern Lights dance across the sky while surrounded by intricate ice sculptures and snow-covered landscapes.
4. Jukkasjärvi
Located just outside Kiruna, the small village of Jukkasjärvi is home to the original ICEHOTEL and offers excellent aurora viewing opportunities. The vast, open landscapes surrounding the village provide ideal conditions for spotting the Northern Lights. Join a local guide for a snowmobile or dog sledding tour into the wilderness, where you can chase the aurora far from any light pollution.
For a truly unique experience, book a night in one of the ICEHOTEL’s art suites. These individually designed rooms, crafted entirely from ice and snow, offer a one-of-a-kind setting for your aurora adventure. As you lie back on your ice bed, wrapped in warm reindeer furs, you might just catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights through your window.
5. Porjus
The tiny village of Porjus, located in the municipality of Jokkmokk, is a hidden gem for aurora enthusiasts. Its remote location and sparse population mean minimal light pollution, creating ideal conditions for viewing the Northern Lights. The nearby Stora Sjöfallet National Park offers stunning landscapes and pristine wilderness, perfect for combining aurora chasing with daytime adventures.
Consider staying at one of the local guesthouses or wilderness camps for an authentic Swedish Lapland experience. Many of these accommodations offer aurora wake-up calls, ensuring you don’t miss a moment of the celestial show.
6. Tärendö
Tärendö, a small village in Swedish Lapland, is rapidly gaining recognition as an excellent spot for aurora viewing. Its location within the aurora zone and its dark, clear skies make it a favourite among photographers and Northern Lights enthusiasts. The village’s proximity to the Tärendö River adds an extra element of beauty to your aurora-watching experience, with the possibility of capturing stunning reflections of the lights in the water.
Local accommodation options, such as Aurora Safari Camp, offer unique stays in lavvu tents, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature while waiting for the Northern Lights to appear. The camp’s expert guides can help you capture the perfect aurora photograph and share insights into the local culture and nature.
7. Luleå Archipelago
For a different perspective on the Northern Lights, head to the Luleå Archipelago in the Gulf of Bothnia. This cluster of over 1,300 islands offers a unique coastal setting for aurora viewing. During winter, the sea freezes over, creating vast ice fields that serve as a stunning foreground for the dancing lights above.
Take a guided snowmobile tour across the frozen sea or stay in a secluded cabin on one of the islands for an unforgettable aurora experience. The contrast between the icy landscapes and the vibrant colours of the Northern Lights creates truly magical scenes.
As you plan your Swedish aurora adventure, remember that witnessing the Northern Lights is never guaranteed. However, by choosing these prime locations and allowing yourself ample time, you significantly increase your chances of experiencing this awe-inspiring natural phenomenon. Chasing the Northern Lights in Sweden is not just about the lights themselves; it’s about immersing yourself in the breathtaking Arctic landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and the thrill of the hunt.
Whether you’re huddled around a campfire in Abisko, gazing up at the sky from an ice bed in Jukkasjärvi, or speeding across the frozen sea in the Luleå Archipelago, the quest for the aurora borealis in Sweden promises unforgettable memories and a deep connection with the wonders of the natural world.
As you embark on your Northern Lights adventure, don’t forget to explore the other must-visit places in Sweden. From the vibrant cities of Stockholm and Gothenburg to the picturesque islands of the archipelago, Sweden offers a wealth of experiences beyond the aurora borealis. So pack your warmest clothes, charge your camera batteries, and prepare for an adventure of a lifetime in the land of the Midnight Sun and the Dancing Lights.
FAQ
When is the best time to see the Northern Lights in Sweden?
The best time to see the Northern Lights in Sweden is typically from late September to early April. During these months, the nights are longer and darker, providing optimal conditions for aurora viewing. However, the peak season is often considered to be from December to February, when the nights are at their longest.
What causes the Aurora Borealis?
The Aurora Borealis is caused by collisions between electrically charged particles from the sun that enter the Earth’s atmosphere. These particles are directed towards the poles by the Earth’s magnetic field, which is why the Northern Lights are typically visible in high-latitude regions like northern Sweden.
What should I pack for a Northern Lights trip to Sweden?
For a Northern Lights trip to Sweden, pack warm, layered clothing including thermal underwear, fleece layers, a down jacket, warm pants, and insulated boots. Don’t forget a hat, gloves, and warm socks. A camera with manual settings and a tripod is essential for capturing the aurora. Hand and foot warmers, a headlamp with a red light option, and a thermos for hot drinks are also recommended.