A number of countries offer visitors the chance of viewing the northern lights, but no country quite comes close to the spectacles so frequently seen in Finland and Iceland.
“A celestial lava lamp”
Described by veteran travel writer Nigel Tisdall as a celestial lava lamp, the northern lights – or aurora borealis – are one of the world’s most awe-inspiring natural phenomena, drawing crowds of people every year to the north of the globe who come with the hope of catching a glimpse of the magical display for themselves.
And, while a number of countries boast impressive stages for viewing the northern lights, nowhere quite matches the combination of clear skies and warm hospitality experienced in the Nordic countries, in particular Finland and Iceland.
What’s more, with so many other activities on offer, from whale watching to husky safaris, as well as an outstanding array of family-friendly accommodation and local restaurants, watching the northern lights in Finland or Iceland will come to form the centrepiece in what will undoubtedly be an all-round unforgettable trip.
Northern lights in Finland
Finland
Located right in the heart of what is known as the “Aurora Zone”, Finland offers some of the best conditions for viewing the northern lights, particularly in north Lapland, where you will find almost completely unobstructed darkness, great vantage points and clear skies. The country has been receiving visitors for decades and subsequently offers great infrastructure, as well as a perfect mix between wild areas and populated cities. Tours that centre around the northern lights include the Northern Lights Snowmobile Safari and the Northern Lights Forest Trek while there are a range of other family activities and attractions that extend beyond the light spectacle, such as Reindeer Camp, Call of the Wild Husky Safari and the Sami Museum.
While it is possible to see the northern lights up to 200 nights a year, Finland can get busy between certain dates, so it’s a good idea to book well in advance to guarantee accommodation and a place on the various tours for you and all the family. Get the Family Traveller Holidays exclusive deal and secure your Lapland adventure to see the northern lights and more.
What’s included?
Flights from Gatwick on 2nd Feb 2020
4 nights
3* Davvi Arctic Lodge
Full Board
Also includes: Return airport transfers, 18kg luggage per person, Northern Lights Snowmobile Safari, Reindeer Camp, Call of the Wild Husky Safari, Northern Lights Forest Trek, Snowshoe induction, loan of thermal suits and boots.
From £3899 per family (based on 2 adults, 2 children under 12).
Other dates and airports available at a supplement.
Northern lights in Iceland
Iceland
While Game of Thrones may have brought Iceland renewed public interest in recent years, it has long been a popular destination for those wanting to catch sight of the ballet of light dancing across the night sky, offering perfect conditions for enjoying the northern lights. On top of the regular aurora spectacle, glaciers, volcanoes, and friendly inhabitants carrying countless stories of fantastical happenings make Iceland the ideal destination for families.
Located close to the Arctic Circle, Iceland experiences exceptionally long nights in the winter, providing plenty of time to see the northern lights, yet its volatile weather conditions mean you may not always be in the best location to see them. Booking a tour is one of the best ways of maximising your chances of seeing them. Family Traveller Holidays offers an exclusive deal that will provide families with flights, hotel stay and a Northern Lights tour with expert guides over a three-night stay.
What’s included?
Flights from Gatwick on 16th December 2019
3 nights
4* Reykjavik Centrum Hotel
Room Only
Includes: Return airport transfers, 2 x 23kg luggage, Classic Northern Lights Tour with pick up and drop off.
From £1,339 per family (based on 2 adults, 2 children under 12)
Other dates and airports available at a supplement.