Aurora Chasing Guide: Iceland vs. Norway vs. Canada

Seeing the Northern Lights is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but choosing the right destination can make all the difference. Iceland, Norway, and Canada are among the top locations for aurora hunting. Here’s a guide to help you decide where to go and when to visit for the best chances of witnessing this natural spectacle.

1. Iceland – Land of Fire, Ice, and Auroras

Best Time: September to April
Top Locations:
- Thingvellir National Park – A short drive from Reykjavik, with minimal light pollution.
- Vik & Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon – Dramatic landscapes enhance the experience.
- Snaefellsnes Peninsula – Offers stunning coastal views under the Northern Lights.
Why Choose Iceland?
- Easy access with direct flights from many cities.
- Otherworldly landscapes, including glaciers, volcanoes, and waterfalls.
- Plenty of geothermal hot springs to warm up after a night of aurora hunting.

2. Norway – Arctic Beauty and Fjords

Best Time: Late September to March
Top Locations:
- Tromsø – Known as the “Gateway to the Arctic,” one of the best places in the world for Northern Lights.
- Lofoten Islands – Offers stunning fjord landscapes and colorful fishing villages.
- Alta – Home to the Northern Lights Cathedral, with high chances of aurora sightings.
Why Choose Norway?
- Strong aurora activity due to its location within the Auroral Oval.
- Scenic fjords and mountains provide a breathtaking backdrop.
- Opportunities for winter activities like dog sledding and reindeer safaris.

3. Canada – Vast Wilderness and Remote Skies

Best Time: Late August to April
Top Locations:
- Yellowknife, Northwest Territories – One of the most reliable locations for aurora viewing.
- Whitehorse, Yukon – Offers clear skies and guided aurora tours.
- Churchill, Manitoba – Famous for polar bears and Northern Lights.
Why Choose Canada?
- Large areas of wilderness mean minimal light pollution.
- Longer viewing season compared to Iceland and Norway.
- Rich Indigenous culture and winter adventure activities.

Which Destination is Best for You?

For easy access & dramatic landscapes → Iceland
For stunning fjords & Arctic experiences → Norway
For remote wilderness & reliable aurora sightings → Canada

Regardless of the destination, checking aurora forecasts, choosing dark locations, and dressing warmly will enhance your Northern Lights experience.