Lapland’s Aurora Hotspots: 5 Must-Visit Locations for Northern Lights

The Northern Lights are natural light displays in the sky, typically visible in Northern Finland. They are caused by solar particles colliding with Earth's magnetic field and atmosphere. This creates vibrant colors like green, pink, and purple.

In Lapland, the chances of seeing the Northern Lights are generally over 50% on clear nights during the Aurora season. Seeing the Northern Lights is like witnessing nature’s own magical light show - a breathtaking experience!

• Why choose it? Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park is one of the best spots in Finland to see the Northern Lights. Far from urban light pollution, this peaceful and nature-rich area offers stunning open views!

• Route: Start your journey at the Yllästunturi Nature Center, easily accessible by driving from Kittilä town.

• Car rental: Europcar Kittilä or Levi

• Why choose it? The Saariselkä area offers many open spaces, and the well-maintained roads make traveling easy.

• Route: Drive to the peak of Kaunispää, accessible by car, and enjoy clear panoramic views. Nearby, you’ll find what is said to be Finland’s most beautiful vehicle rest area.

• Car rental: Europcar Ivalo

• Why choose it? Ruka is a popular destination for Northern Lights viewing. From Ruka’s peak (about 500 meters above sea level), enjoy panoramic sky views, and the area’s ski lifts or hiking trails provide easy access to great viewing spots. A top car-accessible location is also Juhannuskallio, a protected nature area near Ruka’s slopes.

• Route: Drive to the Ruka Ski Resort area, where parking is available, and follow the clear trail to the peak. The Juhannuskallio trail starts near the Ruka Peak Chalet.

• Car rental: Europcar Kuusamo

• Why choose it? By the shores of Lake Inari, Finland's third-largest lake, you can enjoy the Northern Lights in various lakeside locations.

• Route: Drive to Inari village and continue to the starting point of the Juutua Trail. Several scenic spots are nearby.

• Car rental: Europcar Ivalo

• Why choose it? The closest location to a major city, ideal if you don’t want to drive far.

• Route: Drive to the Ounasvaara ski area parking lot and take a short walk to an open area. Alternatively, about 25 km north of the city, you’ll find a hiking area with rest stops, perfect for a day trip. The hiking trails are well-maintained.

• Car rental: Europcar Rovaniemi

With these locations, you can experience the best Northern Lights views while traveling by car. Remember to respect nature and no-go zones/private properties (like farming & fields), stop only at safe designated parking/rest areas, and check the Aurora forecast before your trip!