For first-time aurora chasing trips in Finland, Rovaniemi is a convenient starting point. If you want to capture lake reflections, snow-capped mountains, or river valleys, head further north into Lapland. The aurora viewing season in northern Finland generally runs from late August to early April. For trips departing in late 2026, it's recommended to stay at least three nights in the same location to allow for cloudy days.
1️⃣ 🌉 Rovaniemi | Walking to the Arctic Garden for Aurora Chasing
The Arctic Garden, located outside the Arktikum Museum, is a riverside park near the city center with expansive northern skies. If staying in the city, you can walk there after dinner to watch the sunrise.
· Transportation | From Helsinki, you can take a domestic flight or book a Santa Claus Express night train on Finnish Railways VR.
· Viewing Location | Search for "Arctic Garden" and walk to the riverside path away from streetlights. No museum ticket is required for the outdoor park.
2️⃣ 🎿 Levi | Ski during the day, visit Lake Immeljärvi at night
Lake Immeljärvi offers expansive views, making it ideal for combining skiing and aurora chasing in one day. Staying in the center of Levi village allows you to check cloud cover before deciding whether to go out.
· Transportation | Take a shuttle bus or taxi from Kittilä Airport to Levi.
· Viewing Location | Check the "Aurora Map" on Visit Levi and choose marked walking routes. Some areas around the lake are private land; please stay on public trails and along the shore.
3️⃣ 🏔️ Saariselkä | Enjoy expansive mountain views from Kaunispää
The Kaunispää highlands have fewer trees and offer unobstructed views, perfect for capturing the snow-covered landscape and distant hills in aurora photos. Strong winds are common at the summit; check road conditions and return arrangements beforehand.
· Transportation | From Ivalo Airport, check shuttle bus schedules by flight or book a taxi to Saariselkä.
· Before heading out | Check live footage of Kaunispää from Lapland North. In case of strong winds or low visibility, wait in an open area with a safe walking path outside the village.
4️⃣ 🧊 Inari | Photograph the aurora borealis and the lake surface at Lake Inari
Lake Inari has an open surface. When it's not frozen and the water is calm, you have a chance to photograph the aurora reflections. After winter sets in, you can use the snow and the lake surface as a foreground from the shore.
· Transportation | From Ivalo Airport, travel to Inari via Ivalo town. Check Matkahuolto bus schedules by date or book your accommodation for transfer.
· Viewing location | Choose a legally accessible lakeshore near the village. If you plan to participate in an ice tour, you can book a guide familiar with the local ice conditions.
5️⃣ ⛰️ Kilpisjärvi | Aurora Foreground with Mount Saana
Located in northwestern Finland, Kilpisjärvi is far from major cities. The lakeside offers stunning views of the Saana mountain silhouette against the night sky. To get a good view of the mountain, head to the lake during the day to plan your shot; this will make finding a good spot easier at night.
· Transportation | You can take a bus from Kittilä Airport or book a pick-up service in advance. The journey is long, so check your departure and return bus schedules before booking accommodation.
· Viewing Location | Find an open spot on the lakeshore that is safely accessible from within the village; no need to hike in the dark.
6️⃣ 🌲 Utsjoki | Waiting for the Northern Night Sky in the Tenojoki Valley
Utsjoki is located in the northernmost part of Finland. The Tenojoki River has a wide valley along its banks, perfect for capturing the valley and the winter night sky in the same frame.
· Transportation | You can travel north from Ivalo Airport via Inari. Check long-distance bus schedules by date or book a transfer with your accommodation.
· Viewing Locations | Inquire with your accommodation about nearby viewing spots within walking distance, or book a local tour. Stay on shore at night, avoiding river ice and unlit shoulders.
📌 Check Two Forecasts Before Chasing the Aurora
· Check cloud cover first, then aurora activity. Check the Finnish Meteorological Institute's (FMI) "Regional Aurora Forecast" and compare it to hourly cloud cover at your destination. Thick clouds may obscure the aurora even with strong activity.
· Allow extra time from evening until around midnight. The aurora can appear at any time after dark. Pack a windproof, warm jacket, ski boots, and spare batteries. For first-time aurora chasers, stay in Rovaniemi. For those wanting to travel further north, consider Ivalo → Saariselkä/Inari, allowing flexibility depending on transportation and weather.
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