Epic northern lights photos from Finland

The Northern Lights are one of the world's most captivating natural spectacles, regularly drawing adventurers from around the globe to Finland to experience this breathtaking phenomenon up close. The majestic light show, caused by the interaction of solar particles with the Earth's magnetic field, has mesmerised people for centuries. Watching the magical lights dance across the night sky has become a top bucket list item for many.

In this article, we've gathered some of the most stunning northern lights photos from Finland, captured by talented photographers in our online community. Immerse yourself in the spirit of these enchanting images and let them inspire your own Northern Lights adventure!

While often only associated with the deepest winter months, the best times to see auroras in Finland range from August to early April, when solar activity across the country is the highest, offering up to 200 nights of potential sightings each year. The further north you go, the darker the skies and the greater your chances of witnessing northern lights. Finnish Lapland is a particularly popular destination for aurora hunters, but with a bit of luck and patience, you might also spot them in other regions, even as far south as the Helsinki region.

One of the most important tips for witnessing the northern lights is dark and cloudless skies, as snow or rain significantly reduces your chances of seeing auroras. Depending on the season and region, the northern lights are usually best visible around midnight and a few hours before and after that. However, the magical show might sometimes also start randomly during the night, so be prepared for a spontaneous adventure.

You can enhance your chances by following local space weather conditions and monitoring auroral activity using resources like the Finnish Meteorological Institute's space weather reports or various northern lights apps that notify you when the chances of seeing auroras are rising.

When heading out for an aurora adventure, choose an open location with unobstructed views, far from town lights and buildings that could create distracting light pollution. Keep your eyes to the north, as the northern lights often sweep across the sky from east to west. Especially during the colder months, make sure to bundle up in warm clothes so you can stay out longer and maximise your chances of catching the breathtaking light show.

Across Finland, you can find unique places that make northern lights spotting an unforgettable experience. Sleep under the northern lights in a glass cabin and enjoy the magical light show from the comfort and warmth of your bed. Alternatively, join guided northern lights tours to hunt auroras on snowshoes, during a picnic, on ice, or while enjoying a relaxing steam in a sauna. The sky's the limit!