Introduction to Northern Lights Chasing

Embark on a quest for the most beautiful lights in the sky!

Watching the northern lights is both a magical and deeply moving experience. This rare natural phenomenon, with its dancing green, pink, or violet waves across the night sky, draws thousands of travelers each winter in search of awe and wonder. The Northern Lights Chase is the adventure of setting out to find these celestial lights, often in remote northern regions, guided by local experts who know the best locations and ideal conditions.
Whether you're a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply curious to experience something extraordinary, this activity is accessible to all and offers one of the most fascinating experiences our planet has to offer.

Origins and Fascination of the Northern Lights

The northern lights, or aurora borealis, are the result of interactions between solar particles and the Earth's atmosphere, most commonly seen near the poles. For centuries, they have inspired legends, mythological tales, and scientific exploration.

Once considered mystical omens by northern civilizations, auroras are now a universal source of wonder. The rising popularity of winter travel in Scandinavia, Iceland, and Canada has turned aurora hunting into a true outdoor activity—often combined with other adventures like snowshoe hikes, dog sledding, or Nordic hot baths.

Different Types of Northern Lights Chase

There are many ways to experience the magic of the northern lights, depending on your sense of adventure, comfort preferences, and trip length:

Minibus or 4x4 Chase

The most popular option. Led by an experienced guide, you travel in a small group to areas with clear skies, far from light pollution. Guides monitor weather forecasts and solar activity in real time to give you the best chance of success.

Snowshoe or Walking Chase

Perfect for the more active traveler, some tours include a moonlit winter walk through the snow, often followed by time around a campfire. An ideal way to immerse yourself in nature.

Combined with a Nordic Activity

Some experiences combine aurora chasing with a typical northern activity—such as snowmobiling, dog sledding, or cross-country skiing. A great way to enjoy a more intense and varied adventure.

Overnight in Camp or Remote Lodge

For a more contemplative experience, you can spend the night in aurora-friendly accommodations—glass domes, wooden cabins, igloos, or heated lodges with panoramic sky views.

Essential Equipment for Northern Lights Chasing

While the activity is accessible, it takes place in cold and often extreme environments. Here's what you'll need:

• Thermal clothing: Layering is essential (technical base layers, fleece, down jacket, windproof parka).
• Winter boots: Waterproof, warm, and comfortable for long hours outdoors.
• Hat, gloves, neck warmer: To protect yourself from biting cold.
• Camera with tripod: To capture the lights (some guides offer equipment or photography tips).
• Headlamp (with red light): To move around without affecting night vision.

Top Destinations to See the Northern Lights

Tromsø, Norway
Often called the capital of the northern lights, Tromsø offers clear skies from September to April, passionate guides, and stunning landscapes between fjords and mountains.

Reykjavik & Surroundings, Iceland
Iceland offers a mix of volcanoes, glaciers, and auroras, with tours available from the capital or deep in the wilderness.

Finnish Lapland
Rovaniemi, Luosto, and Inari are perfect places to spot the auroras while also discovering Sami culture and the snowy beauty of the far north.

Abisko, Sweden
Thanks to its dry microclimate, Abisko is one of the most reliable aurora destinations in the world, with over 200 clear nights per year.

Yukon & Northwest Territories, Canada
In Canada's vast wilderness, you can experience intense, isolated auroras—often accompanied by total silence and untouched snowy landscapes.

Aurora Borealis Glossary

• Polar Aurora: General term for auroras in both hemispheres (borealis in the north, australis in the south).
• Kp Index: A scale from 0 to 9 measuring geomagnetic activity and the likelihood of seeing auroras.
• Auroral Arc: The initial phase of an aurora, appearing as a glowing band across the sky.
• Auroral Crown: A rarer, more spectacular form of aurora that appears to radiate from directly overhead.
• Excited Photons: Light-emitting particles that release energy after being disturbed by electromagnetic forces.

The Benefits of Chasing the Northern Lights

• Total Disconnection: Far from screens and cities, you reconnect with what truly matters.
• Connection with Nature: A deep bond with the elements, the seasons, and the rhythms of the sky.
• Awe and Emotion: Witnessing an aurora often brings tears, laughter, and a sense of humility in the face of nature’s beauty.
• Shared Moments: A powerful human adventure, whether as a couple, with family, or among friends.

Tips for Getting Started

• Be patient: Sightings are never guaranteed. Nature decides!
• Choose a local guide: They know the region and where to go—even with clouds.
• Check the forecasts: Look for clear skies and good solar activity (Kp ≥ 3 recommended).
• Dress for the cold: You might wait for hours in freezing conditions.
• Keep an open mind: Even without auroras, the experience is still magical.

An Unforgettable Adventure with Manawa

Chasing the northern lights is far more than a nighttime outing—it’s a journey into the universe, a sensory and emotional adventure that lets you witness the mysteries of the sky. On Manawa, you’ll find expertly guided experiences in the best locations to see this rare phenomenon. Whether you're ticking off a bucket list dream or gifting someone a magical moment, embark on your own quest for the lights of the North... and let the magic happen.

Book your Northern Lights Chase on Manawa!