Chasing Northern Lights in Tromsø

Chasing the Northern Lights can be overwhelming, even in hotspots like Tromsø. It’s not a usual vacation where you simply head to the beach or mountains; it requires a bit more preparation if your goal is to make the most of your aurora-chasing experience.

Three years ago, when we decided to go chasing Northern Lights in Tromsø, Norway, we didn’t know much about what to consider for this trip. We only knew that Tromsø is one of the most popular places to witness the Aurora Borealis, so we decided to go there.

We searched for accommodation in the city (which turned out to be a mistake) because we wanted to be close to shops and restaurants. However, we didn’t realize at the time that the best aurora experience happens far from city lights. Fortunately, we had a rented car and drove out of the city each night to chase the lights. While this was a good experience, it could have been even better if we had chosen accommodation outside the city, away from light pollution. This way, we could have seen the aurora at any time without needing to drive.

When we finally saw the Northern Lights, it was pure joy. It was so beautiful and gave us such a unique feeling that we immediately became passionate about it. Since then, we’ve been eager to learn as much as possible about the Northern Lights and everything related to this beautiful natural phenomenon.

Three years later, we’ve learned some things along the way and thought it would be helpful to create an article on how you can make the most of your own adventure chasing the lights in Tromsø, Norway.

Where to stay?

Let’s begin with accommodation options. Below, I’ll outline the pros and cons of staying in the city compared to the countryside, sharing my personal opinion.

Staying in the city:

The city itself is beautiful, with plenty of things to do, such as visiting the Polar Museum or taking a cable car to Mount Storsteinen for panoramic views. However, if chasing the Northern Lights is your main focus, staying in the city might not be the best option for you. The city lights can significantly reduce the visibility of the aurora, making it appear less vibrant or even invisible to the naked eye.

Advantages:

• Convenience: Proximity to shops, restaurants, and other amenities makes it easy to access everyday needs and services.

Disadvantages:

• Light Pollution: City lights can reduce the visibility of the Northern Lights, it can wash out the colors of the aurora. To fully enjoy the experience, you may need to travel outside the city to areas with darker skies.
• Higher Costs: Accommodation in the city may be more expensive compared to places further from urban centers.

Staying in the countryside:

Having learned from our first trip, we decided to stay about 50 km outside Tromsø during our chasing Northern Lights in Tromsø adventure. This was the best decision. We found a home in an area with very low light pollution. It was magical, we even saw the Northern Lights from our bed.

Advantages:

• Better Aurora Viewing: With little to no light pollution, you have a much clearer view of the Northern Lights. This allows you to enjoy the full beauty of the aurora without interference from artificial lights.
• Natural Surroundings: You’re surrounded by nature, which can enhance your overall experience. Whether it’s snow-covered landscapes, forests, or mountains, the natural setting adds to the magic of chasing lights in Tromsø.
• Immediate Access: You can step outside your accommodation at any time to watch the Northern Lights without the need to drive. This convenience allows you to fully relax and enjoy the moment.

Disadvantages:

The disadvantages of staying outside the city are minimal in my opinion. The only downside might be that you don't have the variety of restaurants and shops as you would in the city, but for us, this wasn’t a problem. We cooked our own meals and didn’t mind driving a bit to do our shopping.

All in all, we would always choose to stay outside the city. It provides the best experience for chasing the Northern Lights.

What to do in Tromsø?

1. Northern Lights Hunting:

One of the main reasons people visit Tromsø is for chasing the Northern Lights in Tromsø, which is an adventure in itself. Northern Lights hunting involves heading out into the dark, away from city lights, to increase your chances of seeing the aurora.

Here are a few ways to experience it:

• Watching from your accommodation: If you're staying outside the city, in a location with little light pollution, you might not need to go far at all. Simply step outside your accommodation and look up. On clear nights, the lights can often be seen right above you. This is why we will always choose to stay outside of the city.
• Self-Driving: If you prefer more flexibility, renting a car and going on your own Northern Lights hunt is another option. This allows you to move at your own pace and choose where to go. Make sure to check the aurora forecast and weather conditions before heading out. The best time to see the lights is usually between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m., but patience is key—sometimes you have to wait a while for them to appear.
• Guided Tours: If you're new to the area or want to ensure the best chances of seeing the lights, booking a guided tour is a great option. Local guides know the best spots and can take you to locations with clear skies and low light pollution. They also share tips on how to photograph the aurora and provide warm gear if needed.

Best time to chase the Northern Lights:

The Northern Lights season in Tromsø generally runs from late August to mid-April. During these months, the long Arctic nights provide excellent conditions for chasing the aurora. The darkest months—November, December, and January—offer the most opportunities for seeing the lights, as these are the months with the longest nights and minimal daylight.

Statistically, the Northern Lights are more intense around the equinoxes in late September and March. This is due to the special alignment of the Earth’s magnetic field with solar winds during these periods, making auroras more frequent and vibrant.

Keep in mind that while the Northern Lights season runs until mid-April, the phenomenon becomes invisible after that due to the midnight sun, which brings 24 hours of daylight during summer.

2. Take the Fjellheisen Cable Car:

Taking a ride on the Tromsø Cable Car is a must-do. It takes you up to Mount Storsteinen, where you can see amazing views of Tromsø and the surrounding area. From the top, you can look out over the city, the fjords, and the mountains. It’s a great way to see the beauty of Tromsø, whether you go during the day, catch the sunset, or even spot the Northern Lights on a clear night.

3. Visit Polaria Aquarium:

Polaria is an interesting place to visit in Tromsø. It’s an Arctic experience center where you can learn about the region's wildlife and environment. At Polaria, you’ll find an aquarium with seals, as well as exhibits on the Arctic ecosystem and films about the Northern Lights and Svalbard. It’s a fun way to spend some time indoors, especially if you have kids with you.

4. Go on a Whale Watching Tour:

Whale watching in Tromsø is an unforgettable experience. From November to January, the fjords around Tromsø are home to orcas, humpback whales, and sometimes even fin whales, which come to feed on herring. If you're lucky, you might witness these majestic creatures up close, making for an awe-inspiring sight. For the best chances, book a tour with an experienced local guide who knows the best locations and times for whale watching.

5. Take a Fjord Tour:

Exploring the fjords around Tromsø is another must-do activity. Fjord tours take you through stunning waterways surrounded by mountains, scenic villages, and Arctic wildlife. Whether you go by boat or even by kayak, the beauty of Tromsø's fjords is breathtaking. Depending on the season, you may spot seals, sea eagles, or even reindeer.

6. Snowmobile Adventure:

If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, a snowmobile tour in Tromsø is a fantastic way to experience the Arctic wilderness. You can ride across frozen lakes, through snowy valleys, and over untouched landscapes. Many snowmobile tours are offered in combination with Northern Lights hunts, allowing you to chase the lights as you zoom across the snow-covered terrain.

Best months to visit Tromsø for Northern Lights

The Northern Lights season in Tromsø spans from October to February, with each month offering unique advantages. Here's a breakdown of what to expect during these key months for aurora viewing:

• October

October marks the start of the Northern Lights season in Tromsø. The nights are getting longer, and the autumn equinox boosts auroral activity. While snow hasn’t fully arrived, crisp air and fewer crowds make it a great time for Northern Lights hunting.

Daylight: 9–11 hours per day, decreasing towards the end of the month.
Weather: Cool, with temperatures ranging from 0°C to 7°C (32°F to 45°F), with occasional rain early in the month.

• November

November brings the first signs of winter, with longer nights and snow-covered landscapes. It's quieter than December, making it a great time for aurora viewing.

Daylight: 4–6 hours per day.
Weather: Temperatures range from -3°C to 3°C (27°F to 37°F), with frequent snowfall.

• December

December offers the best conditions for Northern Lights as the Polar Night sets in, ensuring long hours of darkness. It’s also the most festive month, with Christmas adding to the winter magic.

Daylight: None — Tromsø experiences the Polar Night.
Weather: Cold, with temperatures between -5°C and -1°C (23°F to 30°F).

• January

January continues the Polar Night, providing long, dark nights ideal for aurora viewing. Snow blankets the ground, creating perfect conditions for winter activities.

Daylight: Minimal, about 2 hours towards the end of the month.
Weather: The coldest month, with temperatures between -4°C and -10°C (14°F to 25°F).

• February

February is another excellent month for aurora viewing, with longer nights and plenty of snow. This is a great time to combine winter sports with Northern Lights tours.

Daylight: 4–6 hours per day.
Weather: Cold, with temperatures from -5°C to -1°C (23°F to 30°F).

Best time overall for chasing Northern Lights in Tromsø

In my opinion, the optimal time for chasing Northern Lights in Tromsø for consistent sightings is between late September and early April. During this period, the long nights create perfect conditions to view the aurora, especially around the autumn and spring equinoxes when the aurora is often more intense.

October and early November are quieter, offering fewer crowds, while December and January provide a snowy wonderland and a festive atmosphere.

Winter Activities

For winter sports like dog sledding, snowmobiling, and skiing, December to February is ideal. Snow covers the landscape, and the colder temperatures provide perfect conditions for these activities, though daylight is limited during this time.

What clothes to pack for Tromsø in winter?

When traveling to Tromsø, especially if you’re visiting to see the Northern Lights or to enjoy winter activities, packing the right clothes is crucial.

The weather in Tromsø can be quite cold and variable, with temperatures often dropping below freezing during the winter months, so it’s important to pack warm, layered clothing to stay comfortable and protected. Here’s a simple guide to help you stay warm and comfortable:

The daily average temperature in Tromsø during winter typically ranges from -5°C to 0°C (23°F to 32°F). On the coldest nights, temperatures can drop to -14°C (7°F). The lowest recorded temperature in Tromsø was -20°C (-4°F), in February 1985 and January 1987.

Warm base layers:

Start with a good base layer. These are your first layer of clothes, and they help keep you warm by trapping body heat. Opt for thermal tops and bottoms made of materials like merino wool or synthetic fibers. Merino wool is a great choice because it’s warm, breathable, and moisture-wicking, which helps keep you dry and comfortable. Avoid cotton, as it doesn’t insulate well when wet.

Insulating layer:

On top of your base layers, wear an insulating layer. This could be a fleece jacket or a down sweater. The goal is to provide extra warmth. Choose something that’s lightweight but still effective at keeping heat close to your body.

Warm pants:

For your legs, consider thermal or insulated pants. You might also want to bring waterproof pants if you plan on spending a lot of time in the snow.

Footwear:

Wear sturdy, waterproof boots with good insulation. Make sure they’re also comfortable for walking and have a good grip for icy conditions. You might also want to pack some thermal insoles for added warmth.

Local cuisine and dining

Tromsø offers a unique dining experience with its focus on fresh, local ingredients and traditional Norwegian dishes. Here are some of the local flavors you can enjoy:

• Arctic Char: This is a popular local fish that’s often served grilled or smoked. It has a mild, delicate flavor and is a must-try for seafood lovers.
• Reindeer: Reindeer meat is a traditional Norwegian dish, and you can find it prepared in various ways, such as steaks, stews, or even as a part of a gourmet dish. It’s rich in flavor and commonly enjoyed in Tromsø.
• Lutefisk: This is a traditional Norwegian dish made from dried fish that has been soaked in lye. It’s a unique taste experience and is often served with potatoes and peas.
• Rakfisk: This is a fermented fish dish that’s traditionally eaten with flatbread, sour cream, and onions. It has a strong flavor, so it’s an acquired taste.
• Kjøttkaker: Norwegian meatballs are usually made from a mix of beef and pork and are served with potatoes, gravy, and lingonberry sauce.

Wrapping it up..

Alright, you’re all set! If you’ve read through this guide, you know that Tromsø is an incredible place with lots to offer, from chasing the Northern Lights to enjoying winter adventures and local treats.

If your main goal is chasing Northern Lights in Tromsø and catching those stunning auroras, staying outside the city is your best bet. But don’t worry – whether you choose the city or the countryside, Tromsø has plenty of options to make your trip truly unforgettable.

Have an amazing trip and make some great memories!