Northern Lights during the congress weekend?

Tromsø is located right in the middle of the aurora oval – the area where your chances of seeing the Northern Lights are among the best in the world. We often catch the first glimpses as early as late August, so there is a good chance of experiencing the Northern Lights during the congress weekend, provided the weather cooperates and aurora activity is present.

Autumn is a favourite season for many locals. The landscape is still green and lush, the autumn colours are starting to appear, and you can enjoy the magical Northern Lights in much milder temperatures than in the middle of winter.

The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, and no one can guarantee they will appear. Both weather conditions and solar activity need to align, and the weather in Northern Norway can change quickly. Joining an organised Northern Lights tour with a local guide can increase your chances of having a great experience. Guides closely monitor weather forecasts and aurora activity, and will drive to wherever conditions are best – sometimes all the way to Finland.

If you would like to join an organised tour, we recommend booking online through Visit Tromsø-Region website, or at the Tourist Information office in Storgata 83. That way, you can be sure you are travelling with a reputable operator. Read more about the Northern Lights and find bookable tours here: https://www.visittromso.no/northern-lights

If you prefer to go on your own, there are several great spots close to the city centre. The top of Fjellheisen offers spectacular views (be sure to bring a headlamp if you plan to hike the Sherpa Steps), while Telegrafbukta and Prestvannet are popular locations with little light pollution and good chances of spotting the green dance across the sky.