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Aurora over Jokulsarlon, Sweden

Northern Lights

Go where nature's fireworks fill the skies with pulsating colour

Northern Lights Holidays

The elusive otherworldly glow of the aurora borealis – commonly known as the Northern Lights – is described by some as the greatest light show on Earth. The best place to see the Northern Lights dancing in the sky is at 65 degrees north latitude and above, so the snowy wilds of European Lapland make an excellent viewing spot. In Iceland or northern Finland, Norway and Sweden it’s possible to see the heavens ablaze with swirly, smoky light from late September to early April. 

The mesmerising light is formed from fast-moving, electrically charged solar particles driven towards the Poles by the Earth’s magnetic field. When they collide with atmospheric gases, they create colourful curtains of light, like nocturnal rainbows, that seem to dance in the sky.

But you can't take them for granted - you'll have the most chance of seeing them on Northern Lights holidays in December, January and February, when the hours of darkness are longest. And for the clearest views, avoid dates when there's a full moon. So, if you’re desperate to experience one of nature’s most spectacular sights, get in touch with our expert team today and start planning your Northern Lights adventure.

Our travellers rate our Northern Lights holidays as

 4.8 / 5 based on 93 reviews

Our Best Northern Lights Holidays

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Top tips when booking a Northern Lights Holidays

1. Head to Arctic Scandinavia: It's the best place to view the Northern Lights. While it's impossible to guarantee a sighting, heading out under a cloudless sky as far from sources of light as possible will maximise your chances, which is why Exodus Northern Lights holidays take you to the more remote locations – a big advantage over quick city breaks. Join us in a frozen wilderness for your best chance to witness the greatest light show on Earth; we have trips in Finland, Norway and Sweden, as well as Greenland. 

2. Photographing them can be tricky: If all you have is a small point-and-shoot camera, the best photos you'll get will be the dark of the night sky with an extremely faint green glow on the horizon. For that National Geographic-esque shot to boast about when you return from your Northern Lights holiday, you'll need a good-quality digital SLR, preferably with a wide-angle lens. And a sturdy tripod and a remote shutter release are essential due to the long exposure time required.  

3). Pick a Northern Lights holiday with plenty of daytime activities: From a mixed-activity week in the Finnish wilderness of Oulanka National Park, to trips that focus exclusively on dogsledding or snowshoeing, we've a whole range of options.

 

How long are your Northern Lights holidays?

Our Northern Lights holidays range from four to eight days, offering you a wide range of options. Our four days in Finland encompass one night in a wilderness cabin, allowing you to get up-close and personal with nature or, if you’re seeking a longer trip, our eight days in Lapland give you the chance to learn about the Sami culture as well as trying your hand at dogsledding and snowshoeing.

Are your Northern Lights holidays guided?

Yes, all our trips come with the services of one of our expert leaders included. Not only will they show you the best place to see the Northern Lights, but they’ll be able to give you a unique insight into the local culture, educating you on the region’s history, tradition and customs as well as pointing out some of the spectacular wildlife and best spots for that perfect photograph.

Book your Northern Lights trip today!

At Exodus, we pride ourselves on delivering unforgettable trips that create memories to last a lifetime, and our Northern Lights holidays certainly offer that. It’s truly a sight not to be missed, so why don’t you speak to one of our friendly team and start planning your amazing adventure today.

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You’re in safe hands

At Exodus, every single one of us is passionate about travel and adventure. Together, our staff and tour leaders have visited more than 171 countries, and we come from a range of backgrounds as diverse archaeology and mountain rescue. We have the hands-on experience to help when you need it, and from the moment you pick up the phone to the moment you land, we’re here to take the hassle out of your holiday. We’ll meet you at the airport, get you safely from place to place, and provide you with the right kit to tackle your chosen adventure.

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