Top Things to Do in Rovaniemi (Besides the Northern Lights) 2
What Are the Northern Lights & When to See Them in Finland?
🧠 What Exactly Are the Northern Lights?
At a basic level, the Northern Lights happen when charged particles from the sun collide with gases in Earth’s atmosphere. These collisions release energy in the form of colorful light. The most common color is green, but under the right conditions, you may also see shades of purple, red, or even blue.
🗺️ Why Finland Is a Great Place to See Them
Finland, especially Lapland in the north, lies right beneath the auroral oval — the zone where the lights are most often visible.
Cities like Rovaniemi, Saariselkä, Luosto, and Utsjoki are prime locations, with clear skies and low light pollution.
☁️ What Affects Visibility?
Cloud Cover: The clearer the sky, the better your chances
Light Pollution: Avoid city lights — that’s why we take you to remote areas
Solar Activity: The sun must send out strong solar winds (our team tracks this for you)
Even when forecasts are low, the lights can surprise you — which is why having experienced guides helps.
📸 Can I Photograph the Northern Lights?
Yes, but it’s tricky without the right equipment.
That’s why every Arctic Skyquest tour includes professional photography — so you can just enjoy the view while we capture perfect shots of you and the aurora.
❄️ Final Tips
Dress warmly (layers, thermal socks, gloves, etc.)
Book early — the best dates fill up fast
Look north and stay patient — the lights come when you least expect them