arctic circle trip from fairbanks

Tours & Sightseeing Trips in Fairbanks, Denali & the Arctic Circle.

Touren & sightseeing in fairbanks, zum denali park & polarkreis ., arctic circle day trip (may 15~aug. 20).

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Cancellation & refund policy.

Tour the arctic circle Alaska from Fairbanks.

Your Alaskan Arctic Circle tour day begins right at your Fairbanks hotel (not Airbnb nor private residences), so you don’t need to plan how to get to us and you will save additional taxi costs. Free guest pickup from 7:30am to 8:30am.

Your Arctic Circle day is full of fun, information and knowledge about Alaska.

Have your picture taken on the Arctic Circle and receive a “Cross the Circle-Certificate”!

Please be aware that we cover a total of 400 miles in this 14-hour van expedition.

En-route, enjoy stunning views of interior Alaska, the Trans-Alaska-Pipeline, wildlife, the mighty Yukon River and the high plateau of Finger Mountain.

Along the way there is plenty of opportunity to take pictures view wildlife and relax at rest stops where you can purchase breakfast and dinner. (Meals are not included in tour price).

Please bring snacks and beverages for lunch.

If you are looking for the tour after August 20, please click HERE . 

• 8:00am departure from Fairbanks.
• Trans-Alaska-Pipeline – Get a close up view of the famous pipeline and learn interesting facts about the engineering and building period.
• Breakfast at Hilltop, a rustic truck stop.
• Cross the mighty Yukon River.
• Finger Mountain – A short nature hike in a beautiful high plateau above the tree line.
• Arctic Circle – Have your picture taken at the Arctic Circle and receive your Arctic Circle Certificate.
• Yukon River – Walk right to the edge of Alaska’s most famous river. It will impress you with its majesty and history.
• Dinner at Yukon Camp.
• 10:00pm arrival at your location in Fairbanks.
• Cancellations 30 days prior to the tour date are subject to a 5% banking charge.
• Cancellations within 30 days are non-refundable.

We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect yourself in the event of a medical emergency or flight delay/cancellation. 1st Alaska Tours is NOT refunding inside the 30-day cancellation policy. 

IMPORTANT : A minimum of 2 people is required for online booking. Single travelers and short notice reservations (within 7 days of tour date) always have to contact us for availability at [email protected] or 907-590-5900.

Tour Details-旅行細節

location/Lage/接送地點: Pick up from Fairbanks

Start Time/Startzeit/開始: 8am

Finish Time/Rückkehr zum Hotel/結束: 10pm

price/Preis/售價: $260

QUESTIONS? PLEASE CONTACT US - Fragen? Sprechen Sie uns an.

popular tours

Arctic Circle Northern Lights

• Arctic Circle Air Adventure

Explore the rich culture, dynamic history, and extreme environment of Alaska above 66 degrees north.

• Things to Do in Fairbanks

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To step foot above the Arctic Circle is a certain kind of thrill, but to spend hours above it with a guide, is even more memorable and enriching. This five-hour trip takes travelers far north to experience the history, native culture, and truly remote environment of the Alaskan Arctic.

Land among the sprawling foothills of the Brooks Range.

The tour starts with a one-hour flight out of Fairbanks . Along the way the pilot narrates, pointing out details of the vast land below. There are active mining sites where miners still hunt for gold. There is the mighty Yukon River Valley, a thriving place home to traditional native peoples and hardworking homesteaders. There are even views of Alaska's less-known, but still stunning Brooks Range. After flying well into the Arctic Circle, the tour's small aircraft lands in the small village of Coldfoot.

From here, guests climb aboard a tour van for a three-hour guided trip along the Dalton Highway. Called the "Haul Road" by Alaskans, dusty trucks lug supplies to the North Slope via this essential transit artery. It is a rugged and isolated place, but the surrounding arctic landscape is also serenely scenic. After pulling back into Coldfoot, the trip concludes with a one-hour return flight to Fairbanks.

Arctic Circle Air Adventure guests spend approximately two hours flying (roundtrip) and three hours on the ground above the Arctic Circle. Guests must check in at the tour operator office at least one hour prior to tour departure.

What to Bring

As with most of Alaska, the weather above the Arctic Circle can be unpredictable. Dress in warm layers and take a rain jacket. Bring a camera, binoculars, bug spray, and snacks. Because the trip goes into remote locations, bring essential medications as well.

Special Instructions

Accurate passenger weight is required for aircraft weight and balance. Guests are limited to 5 to 10 pounds of additional luggage per person. Alaska's Arctic is a true wilderness region. Although rare, weather or mechanical factors can result in multi-hour delays. Medical facilities, communication, and transportation infrastructure are limited. Travelers to this region should be of reasonable health and physical condition.

Transfers & Meeting Points

The Arctic Circle Air Adventure departs from the tour operator terminal on the east ramp of the Fairbanks Airport. The tour operator provides return shuttle rides to Fairbanks hotels for a small fee.

Arctic Circle Air Adventure 3820 University Avenue Fairbanks, AK 99709

Here are the rates and operating dates for this product. Remember, we have a lowest price guarantee for nearly everything we sell.

There is no child rate for this service.

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Departure times and locations are listed below. Click on a link for an interactive map.

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Select a departure below to see current availability. If your desired date is sold out (red) we will do our best to find an alternative, but we may not be able to accommodate your request.

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Quick Facts

• Price From $569
• Duration 5 Hours
• Options 7 AM, 1 PM, 7 PM
• Operating Dates Daily from 5/10/2024 to 9/23/2024
• Activity Level Active

What's Included

• Roundtrip flight above the Arctic Circle.
• Guided Dalton Highway driving tour.
• Stops at Coldfoot, Wiseman, and the Koyukuk River.
• Official Arctic Circle Adventure Certificate.

Guest Feedback

"Outstanding! The plane ride was great, and the scenery was unbelievably awesome. There were too many mountains to count and too many pictures to choose from! The subsistence living in Wiseman was impressive."

~Timothy from Illinois~

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• Our Most Requested Tour!

ARCTIC CIRCLE DAY TOUR

Quick Details

• Tags Category: Summer Tours
• Hour Glass Duration: 14 hours

Bus Departure: From 7:00 am (depending on hotel location).  Return is between 7:00pm and 9:00 pm.

Coffee   Inclusions:

• Pick up/drop off from hotels within the city limits of Fairbanks or North Pole. If you are staying at an Air BnB, please contact the office on 907 712 4529 (landline) for the closest pick up location. If you are staying outside the city limits, we can pick you up at Walmart or another hotel location. Please call our office to discuss what options are available.
• Snacks and bottled water
• Certificate for crossing the Arctic Circle

Info Exclusions:

• Lunch (available for purchase at Yukon River Camp)

Join our most requested Arctic Circle tour from Fairbanks!

Enjoy Alaska’s untouched nature and its raw beauty. Step across the Arctic Circle, learn about the Trans Alaska Pipeline, look down upon the Yukon River, take a stroll around Finger Mountain (alpine tundra+++weather dependent) and spot wildlife (no guarantee). Marvel over and absorb the vastness and vistas, known as the Last Frontier.

Travel along the famous and rugged Dalton Highway (well known from the TV Show “Ice Road Truckers”) to the Arctic Circle, where the summer nights are bright and the winter dark.

Our exceptional guides, comfortable transportation, and personalized service will make this all-day adventure a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

• We will provide you with snacks and bottled water. This is unique to our company and what sets us apart from all others.
• Additional stops are available to purchase lunch and dinner along the road (food not included). You may bring your own food and snacks if desired.
• Our travel itinerary is flexible to ensure our guests can take advantage of unique photo opportunities. We incorporate many stops and opportunity for viewing pleasure.
• Make sure to dress weather appropriate and we recommend to wear some sturdy shoes to be able enjoy this trip.

Arctic Circle Tour Highlights:

• Day trip to the Arctic Circle from Fairbanks, Alaska
• Viewing and information about the Trans Alaska Pipeline at the Pipeline viewing point near Fox
• Opportunity to view wildlife such as moose, bears, caribou or wolves along the tour (no guarantee)
• Have your photo taken with your certificate for crossing the Arctic Circle at the world-famous signpost

What to expect

Set off from your departure point in Fairbanks and journey to the Arctic Circle in a climate-controlled van. Traverse the Dalton Highway, keeping your eyes open for wildlife as you cross the Yukon River.

Arrive at your destination, where day and night blend together, and begin to immerse yourself in the indigenous culture. Take a guided walk through the arctic landscape, stop to take photos, and then savor a delightful snack and beverage. Lunch is also available for purchase at Yukon River Camp.

Along the way, make a trip to the Hilltop Restaurant and Marketplace for an opportunity to taste delicious pies, pick up some Alaskan gifts, or simply take a break to relax.

Finally, make your way back to Fairbanks while admiring more views of the mountains and valleys.

• We require a minimum number of 4 people to operate this tour. If minimum numbers are not met you will be advised and offered either a refund or to be rescheduled.
• We will contact you the day before your tour with your exact pickup time once all hotels are known and the pickup schedule is finalized.
• We will make a stop before leaving Fairbanks at a local grocery store to purchase food, drinks and snacks for a picnic lunch, or you can bring your own.
• This tour requires being able to enter and exit our van with limited assistance.  Please contact us if you have any concerns about mobility.

Our office can be reached at +1 907 712 4529 (Landline only, no texts). Our office hours are Monday to Friday from 9 am to 5 pm Alaskan time and Saturday from 9 am to 12 pm during the winter.

Kevin was great. Lots of information on the pipeline, arctic circle, environs. Fabulous to drive the Dalton Road that goes to Prudhoe Bay. AND be at the Arctic Circle. A long day but well worth it!

Among the Top Experiences ever. Kevin was our Tour guide. He was very knowledgeable, helpful and made sure we see Northern Lights on the way back from Arctic Circle. Highly recommended when you are in Fairbanks.

What an amazing trip! Yes, it was a long day, but it was SO worth it. If you want to see Alaska, the pipeline, lots of black spruce, a diverse landscape, and travel the Dalton Highway and cross the mighty Yukon River to the Arctic Circle, this trip is for you! Our tour guide, JJ, was so knowledgeable about the area. She told our group about her experiences living in Alaska, bringing it to life for us. I also recommend ordering lunch and supper from Yukon River Camp for the trip. The food was delicious.Super time!

Really enjoyed our road-trip to the arctic circle! Tony was extremely entertaining and had many stories relating to the trip. He made the very long day go fast. The stop for pie was great. The best blueberry pie I’ve had in a long time. The Yukon river camp was a perfectly timed stop for lunch and the use of the restroom facilities. Some weather conditions made the finger mountain stop quick. Luckily the weather had improved by the time we reached the arctic circle. The certificates are a nice touch and having them officially stamped was a plus. Overall a road-trip that happens once in a lifetime.

We had a great trip up to the Arctic Circle! Tony was super knowledgeable about the land and had great stories to tell throughout the drive. The Dalton Highway is absolutely stunning, we even saw a mama bear and her cubs right before we got up to the Circle! Crossing the Circle was really cool, as was the Yukon River and the camp stop there. We learned a lot about Northern Alaska and I want to come back for a longer trip for sure. I really enjoyed my trip and Tony was a great guide!

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• Hour Glass 5.5 hours
• Tags Summer Tours , Winter Tours

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This tour is for anyone who is interested in the history and highlights of Fairbanks, Alaska. Tour includes a convenient pick up from your hotel (within the city limits) and a local guide to show you the sites around Fairbanks.

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The Table Top Mountain Trail is a wonderful and easy day tour for all age groups. The hike is spectacular and offers beautiful views of Nome Creek valley and Beaver Creek valley.

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Gates of the Arctic Air Adventure

Find Your perfect trip

When will you come?

What do you want to see?

Tour Summary

• Fly north from Fairbanks and wonder at the story of the vast and remote land below ... the traditional peoples that continue to sustain their lifestyles and cultures in the expansive Yuon River valley as they have for thousands of years ... the gold mining activity that continues nearly 100 years after the yello metal first brought newcomers rushing north ... the Trans Alaska Pipeline symbolizing the immense changes brought to Alaska's Arctic by the discovery of oil just over 30 years ago.
• Thrill at the excitement of crossing the Arctic Circle.
• Land 60 miles north of the Arctic Circle at the Brooks Mountain Range community of Coldfoot, the modern day gateway to the Gates of the Arctic National park. Take in a brief orientation and restroom break before continuing on your air journey.
• Experience the rugged and magnificent Brooks Mountain Range. The flight route takes you inside the Gates of the Arctic National Park, the wild and pristine jewel of the national park system.
• Enjoy your return flight to Fairbanks. Receive an official Arctic Circle Adventure Certificate.

The Ultimate Arctic Circle Experience!!

Tour Dates and Rates

June 1, 2024 - August 31, 2024

7:00 PM Departure

Days: Daily

• Arctic Circle
• Undiscovered Arctic

Departs 7:00 pm; returns between 11:30 -12:00 am

*2024 Rate : $709 per person

For information on how to make a reservation, click on the link to our planning  page. 

Arctic Circle Fly Drive Adventure - Northbound

An Overnight Guided Round Trip Journey By Land And Air Into Alaska's Brooks Mountain Range

• ✓ Arctic Circle
• Χ Arctic Ocean
• Χ Polar Bear
• Χ Undiscovered Arctic
• ✓ Yukon River

Arctic Circle Air Adventure

A One Day Guided Round Trip Journey By Air And Land Across The Arctic Circle

• Χ Yukon River

Driving to the Arctic Circle from Fairbanks, Alaska

Driving to the Arctic circle from Fairbanks, Alaska is one of our most adventurous day trips in our lives till now. Something we wanted to check off our list but did not expect it would happen in winter. Alaska, one of our favorite states in the US, is a complete contrast in each season. Winter being the most exciting yet dangerous given the extreme cold temperatures. If you want to get to the top of the world, by car, you are in the right place.

What is the Arctic Circle?

In the literal sense, it is an imaginary circular line around the world. It marks the northernmost point on the earth where the sun does not set during Summer solstice and does not rise during winter Solstice. The region beyond this line is known as the arctic where you can experience at least 24hours of darkness in winter and 24hours of sunlight in summer. There are 8 countries which share the arctic region and the USA is one of them.

Different ways of getting to the Arctic Circle Sign

Alaska has a sign/board at the point of arctic circle beyond which you enter the Arctic region. This is a famous tourist spot in the summer and less in the winter since getting to this point has its own challenges and in the winter it is even more so.

Dalton Highway is the famous single road that leads to the arctic circle which is 80 miles from Fairbanks, Alaska.

There are 2 ways to get to the arctic circle sign.

Take a Tour bus : There are tour companies which organize day trips to the arctic circle sign and even have trips spanning days to go into the arctic region all the way to the Arctic ocean. For trips beyond the sign and till the arctic ocean, it usually includes a flight since there are no drivable roads beyond a point. You can check out various guided tour options here.

Drive to the Arctic circle independently : If you are the more adventurous type, like us, you can rent a special car to drive yourself to the Arctic circle sign. It takes roughly about 6-7 hours. You have to know that it is NOT like a regular road trip whatsoever. You need to take a lot of precautions before you decide to drive. Read more to find out!

Things to know before driving to the Arctic Circle Sign in Winter

So let’s say you decide to drive on your own all the way to the arctic circle and maybe beyond. There are a couple of things you must know, which we didn’t. 

There is only a single road that leads to the Arctic circle – The Dalton highway. It is a rough gravel road built alongside the trans-Alaska oil pipeline in the 1970s. The road winds 414 miles alongside the Arctic National Park till Prudhoe bay, beyond which there is no road. At mile 115 you reach the Arctic circle. This road is mainly used by heavy/huge trucks for oil transportation from the Arctic. The road is wide enough but has blind curves along the way, something to keep in mind.

Renting a car

No Rental company will allow you to take their car up the Dalton Highway since it is dangerous for the car as well as a liability issue for them. You will need to rent a specially equipped car to drive up the road and for good reason.

We rented our car from Arctic Outfitters

It is expensive, but worth it since the car is well equipped and sturdy. It was October, the beginning of winter when we drove to the arctic circle. It was surreal with no traffic except for huge trucks, not a soul in sight except for a huge expanse of snow covered mountains.

Time to drive

It took us roughly 6-7 hours one way to get to the Arctic circle sign. So make sure you start your journey really early to get back before nightfall. In winter, you might have to start as early as 4 AM. You can drive beyond the arctic circle sign till Coldfoot or even beyond if you plan to stay somewhere along the way. We crossed the arctic circle, made friends with some gray jays (birds) and headed back.

Important thing to remember, there will be NO signal before you even enter the Dalton highway, so your mobile is no good. There is absolutely nothing on either side of the highway, so make sure you pack a good amount of food with you. In the winter, we did not meet a single soul for hours together until we stopped at a gas station in Yukon river camp. Make sure you fill up the car full tank before you start, in between going and coming back.

The rental company gave us a map which we used to get to Dalton Highway. The car comes equipped with a satellite mobile, camping gear, in case of emergencies. You also get a satellite radio to communicate with the truckers on the road. You MUST use this to warn them when you are taking a blind curve so that they don’t bump into you and you go falling off the cliff. Don’t be shy, just talk to them on the radio. Everytime we climbed uphill or took a blind curve, we were blaring into the radio. They must have been so annoyed lol.

The drive is out of the world in winter. It’s white everywhere. Snow covered mountains on either side and ice up coniferous trees which later opened up into Arctic Tundra. Pictures do no justice to what we saw. It was nature in its purest form, untouched, raw and real.

Arctic Circle Sign

You will see a sign as you near the Arctic circle. To be honest, it was kind of an anti climax once we reached the spot. The spot has a sign/board, few picnic tables and restrooms. Since it was winter, we were the only ones there. The gray jays seemed too friendly, probably the result of people feeding them in the summer. It was freezing out there, so our main goal was to cross into the arctic, take some pictures beside the sign for bragging rights and head back. 

Nevertheless, the journey till there made it all up.

Can you go beyond the Arctic Circle sign?

You can drive beyond the Arctic Circle sign, up to Deadhorse in Prudhoe Bay, beyond which there is no road. The nearest city to the arctic circle sign is Coldfoot, about 2.5 hours away. This city is mainly a stop over after a whole day of driving. It also offers some touristy activities. Habitation in the cities around the arctic circle consists mainly of workers/truckers in the industry of oil development at Prudhoe Bay oil field. There are tour buses/flights which take you till the arctic ocean. The tour usually spans over 2-3 days.

Thankful to have driven and got back safely on this once in a lifetime adventure, we definitely recommend this activity via a tour bus or on your own (with lots of precautions). Experiencing nature in its raw form gives you a sense of perspective that you can never get surrounded by all the distractions we have in our life today.

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The 18 best places to see the northern lights.

Check the aurora borealis off your bucket list.

The Best Places for the Northern Lights

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The northern lights, known as the aurora borealis, are a spectacular natural light show visible at certain times of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. They occur when electrically charged particles from the sun collide with gases in the Earth's atmosphere, creating vibrant streaks of blue, green, pink and violet dancing across the night sky. 2024 and 2025 are an excellent time to catch the northern lights: Solar activity will be at a peak, making for a more impressive experience, if you're in the right place.

The best places to see the aurora borealis have little light pollution, clear skies and no precipitation. The lights are only visible at northern latitudes when it's dark outside, so the months from September to April are best for seeing the aurora. There's also a Southern Hemisphere counterpart, the aurora australis; there are fewer easy spots from which to view this phenomenon, but if you're lucky, it can be equally brilliant.

For more information on the northern lights, scroll down to the FAQ section at the bottom of this page. Read on to discover the top destinations where you can see the kaleidoscopic northern and southern lights.

Fairbanks, Alaska

Fairbanks is by far one of the best places in the world to view the northern lights, as it's located directly under the auroral oval. This ring-shaped zone sits around the Earth's geomagnetic North Pole and is generally associated with the most vibrant aurora sightings. Visitors can expect to see the lights on an average of four out of five clear nights during aurora season, which lasts from late August to late April.

You can book a northern lights tour to see the aurora from the springs and tubs at Chena Hot Springs Resort. This excursion includes round-trip transportation to the resort from town, a soak in the hot springs, a visit to the Fairbanks Aurora Ice Museum and an aurora viewing tour; dinner and drinks centered around Alaska produce are an option extra with hot drinks supplied.

There's more to Fairbanks than just the northern lights: If you visit in late summer, consider family-friendly activities like a ride on the Riverboat Discovery or gold panning. For a festive holiday experience in the winter, head around 15 miles out of Fairbanks to visit the Santa Claus House in the city of North Pole. Travelers can also see ice sculptures in February and March at the impressive World Ice Art Championships or take a dog-sledding or snowmobiling tour .

Where to stay: For excellent chances of aurora viewing, book a private igloo at Borealis Basecamp, a top glamping resort located on 100 remote acres of boreal forest about 25 miles from Fairbanks. With activities like dog-sledding on top of aurora viewing, past visitors regularly describe it as a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Tromsø, Norway

Located about 220 miles above the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is one of several top spots to view the northern lights in Norway. At the darkest point of the aurora season – which runs from September to early April – the sun doesn't rise in this northern part of the country, although there is twilight during the day. With this level of darkness, there are more opportunities to see the aurora.

Tromsø itself is a small but lively city, so there's plenty to see and do when you're not looking up at the sky, including a visit to the beautiful Arctic Cathedral. In late January to early February, the city hosts the Northern Lights Festival, a 10-day music and performing arts event featuring a variety of musical genres.

Aurora chasers can view the lights on their own while in town, but to get a better view, it's recommended to head away from the city lights. Arctic Circle Tours is one company offering guided trips, with small groups for a more personal vibe. Alternatively, adventure-seekers can embark on an exhilarating husky trekking expedition in the Arctic wilderness.

Where to stay: For accommodations with harbor views, look no further than the Scandic Ishavshotel – guests love it for its convenient central location in the city, as well as its plus-sized breakfast buffet with plenty of choices.

Luosto and Rovaniemi (Lapland), Finland

Lapland is located within the Arctic Circle in the northernmost part of Finland. The northern lights are most visible here between the end of August and April – and approximately 200 times a year – so there are many opportunities for aurora spotting. Finnish Lapland is also known as home to the Sámi people (the only recognized Indigenous group in the European Union region), some 200,000 reindeer and Santa Claus – who can be visited in the town of Rovaniemi, the region's largest city and a great base for your aurora expedition.

Consider venturing roughly 70 miles north of Rovaniemi to the resort town of Luosto, set among the picturesque and hilly landscape of Pyhä-Luosto National Park. Here, you can also spend a magical evening outdoors under star-filled skies during a reindeer-drawn sleigh ride through the snow-covered forests. Jaakkola Reindeer Farm offers a reindeer sleigh tour to spot the aurora once weekly; it includes a stop to warm up at a bonfire camp with snacks, hot beverages and local fireside stories.

Where to stay: For a bucket list experience, watch the impressive light show from a glass igloo at Santa's Hotel Aurora & Igloos in Luosto. Past visitors love the cozy atmosphere here, boosted by amenities like saunas and log fireplaces. If you're sticking to Rovaniemi, the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel is a stunning choice, with designer cabins perched among the snow-covered taiga forest.

Orkney, Scotland

This group of captivating (and mostly uninhabited) islands, located about 10 miles off Scotland's remote northern coast, is one of the best places to see the northern nights in the U.K. Fall and winter are the best seasons to witness the aurora, also known in local Shetland dialect as the "Mirrie Dancers," with fall bringing the highest proportion of clear nights. A few places to see the spectacular light show include along the coast at Birsay or the Broch of Gurness, an archaeological ruin on a sweeping and dramatic coastline.

In addition to the aurora, Orkney is home to breathtaking coastal landscapes and more sheep than you can count (try some local lamb, if you can). Travelers can also visit the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with several monuments dating back 5,000 years.

Where to stay: During your visit, plan to stay in the historic town of Kirkwall, the capital of the Orkney Islands: The no-fuss Ayre Hotel offers harbor views, and past visitors compliment the hearty meals in the hotel restaurant. Spot the aurora close to town at Inganess Bay and Wideford Hill.

Yellowknife, Canada

Yellowknife, the capital of Canada 's Northwest Territories, dubs itself the "Aurora Capital of the World." Thanks to its position in the middle of the auroral oval, the city puts on one of the world's most awe-inspiring light shows. The period from mid-November to the beginning of April is the recommended time to spot the aurora, but it's also possible to see the aurora during more hospitable weather from late summer to early fall as the lights are visible up to 240 days a year.

Located on the northern shore of Great Slave Lake, Yellowknife boasts winter sports such as ice fishing and cross-country skiing. If you visit in March, plan to attend the monthlong Snowkings' Winter Festival, which features events and activities like a snow-carving competition, a snow castle, live music and more.

For a unique experience, book a tour through Aurora Village to view the lights. The property will pick you up from your hotel and take you to its site, where you can stay warm in a tent while sipping hot beverages. The Aboriginal-owned Aurora Village also offers activities such as dog-sledding or snowshoeing excursions.

Where to stay: Warm up in the fireside lounge at The Explorer Hotel in Yellowknife. Previous visitors note the warm and helpful staff as a strength here.

Jukkasjärvi, Sweden

The optimal time for seeing the illuminated skies in the northern part of Sweden, known as Swedish Lapland, is between early September and late March. The small Swedish village of Jukkasjärvi sits around 125 miles above the Arctic Circle on the Torne River and is an ideal locale for aurora viewing. You'll fly to the nearby Kiruna Airport to get here. With the village's origins dating back to the 17th century, you can still find some of the original homesteads, including an old timber cottage. Today the village boasts 800 residents – and more than 1,000 dogs.

Where to stay: If you're up for a chilly overnight adventure, reserve accommodations at the world's first permanent ice hotel, the aptly named Icehotel 365. Each of its artist-designed suites is sculpted from ice with a unique theme and maintains temperatures around minus 5 degrees Celsius (about 23 degrees Fahrenheit). The rooms also feature beds with reindeer hides and thermal sleeping bags so you can bundle up during the night. While you're at the property, take advantage of the guided "Northern Lights Safari on Snowmobile" or embark on the "Moose Safari on Horseback" atop an Icelandic horse.

Reykjavik, Iceland

October through March is the best time to chase the aurora borealis in Iceland . There are numerous natural parks and attractions throughout the country where you can view the show during the long and dark winter, but the capital city of Reykjavik also offers many options for accommodations, restaurants, tours and other activities for your visit. For optimum aurora viewing in the city away from the light pollution, head to Öskjuhlið. This wooded and hilly area in Reykjavik sits at 200 feet above sea level and has walkways and paths where you can see the nighttime show.

Atop this hill sits Perlan, which houses the only planetarium in the country and a museum featuring exhibits about Iceland. Perlan is also home to the world's first indoor ice cave and glacier exploratorium. During your visit, don't miss the panoramic views of the city from the building's fourth-floor observation deck. From this vantage point, you'll be able to see the Snæfellsjökull glacier; Keilir, a volcanic mountain; and Esja, the mountain of Reykjavik.

Where to stay: While in Reykjavik, splurge on an overnight tour with Buubble Tours. This experience includes breathtaking sightseeing spots and a night spent under the magical northern skies in a transparent bubble at the 5 Million Star Hotel. For longer stays, consider the eco-friendly Eyja Guldsmeden Hotel, with sweeping views of the city – guests love it for its cozy yet chic Scandinavian design.

Southern Iceland

While Reykjavik is a great aurora-viewing spot if you like having amenities close by, consider getting out into Iceland's stunning, otherworldly countryside for a unique backdrop for the northern lights. One unique place to see them is the black sand beach at Reynisfjara (but watch out for the dangerous waves here). Alternatively, head to Jökulsárlón, a glacial lagoon and seal habitat, where the aurora's reflections in the icy water are truly beautiful.

There's no shortage of tours that will stop by these locations and more for possible aurora sightings. Consider a 10- or 13-day tour around the country with Fun Travel, or a four-day option from Arctic Adventures. If you want to do things at your own place, it's also possible to self-drive – just know that road conditions can be icy, particularly in the depths of winter (although Icelandic roads are generally well-maintained).

Where to stay: Hotel Rangá is a formidable option for aurora-spotting. It offers a variety of special amenities, such as aurora wake-up calls, a lookout deck and snowsuits to keep you warm if you're outside viewing the lights. Past visitors praise Rangá for being a comfortable yet luxurious place to relax, be it in the outdoor hot tubs or the cozy and sociable bar.

Kangerlussuaq, Greenland

Greenland may not be the most accessible place to travel for viewing the northern lights, with limited flight options (mostly via Iceland), but those who make it here will be thrilled they did. The tundra of Kalaallit Nunaat – the Greenlandic name for the country – is one of the best places on the globe to see the aurora from September to early April.

For the more adventurous aurora seekers, head to the top of the Greenland Ice Cap for spectacular views of the lights. This impressive glacier covers 80% of the country and is accessible via the tiny town of Kangerlussuaq. Located on a fjord right along the Arctic Circle, the town, often described as a gateway to Greenland, was a former U.S. Air Force base and is now home to Greenland's main airport. The town is known for having clear skies on some 300 nights per year, so chances of a sighting are particularly good here.

Tour company Guide to Greenland offers various tours, from two-hour aurora-viewing trips to a tough but rewarding multi-night dog-sledding expedition across the ice. For a less strenuous experience, companies like Nordic Saga Tours offer cruises through the Arctic landscapes around Kangerlussuaq.

Viking cruise along Norway's coast

Courtesy of Viking

Embrace the winter and set sail for the Arctic Circle to experience the aurora in northern Norway. The 13-day "In Search of the Northern Lights" cruise itinerary with Viking departs from London for the North Sea with stops in ports of call that are top aurora-viewing locales, including Tromsø, Alta and Narvik, plus a stop in Amsterdam en route. The cruise ends in Bergen, Norway.

While on land, take in the natural beauty of the snow-blanketed landscapes and book bucket list excursions like a night spent in an igloo or a reindeer sledding adventure. You can also chase the lights into the wilderness by snowmobile, take a dog sled ride under the stars or view them from a Sámi tent atop the mountain Pæska in Alta. This Viking Ocean Cruises itinerary is offered with departure dates from mid-January to mid-March.

Headlands International Dark Sky Park, Michigan

Regarded as one of the top spots in the U.S. to see the aurora outside Alaska, Headlands International Dark Sky Park sits at the top of Michigan 's lower peninsula, less than 5 miles from Mackinaw City. While the northern lights are less common here due to the relatively southern location, the best time to catch a glimpse of this phenomenon is typically during the spring and fall – and appearances can usually be predicted a couple of days in advance. The park even maintains an online Clear Sky Chart so you can check the weather forecast before you go.

There are also other stargazing opportunities throughout the year at Headlands. During the summer months the Milky Way is visible across the sky, and late summer evenings entertain visitors with meteor showers.

Where to stay: If you're visiting between late April and the end of October, splurge on a stay at Mission Point Resort on Mackinac Island, where the aurora should also be visible. Guests describe this iconic property situated along the shoreline of Lake Huron as positively charming, thanks to its historic nature and manicured grounds. The resort also offers a host of outdoor activities from bike rentals to swimming.

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Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota

Martha Shuff | Courtesy of Voyageurs National Park

Located on the international border between Minnesota and Ontario, Voyageurs National Park is an approximately 218,000-acre labyrinth of boreal forests, lakes and streams. Voyageurs is Minnesota's only national park; it's also unique in that the park's interior is accessible only by boat, unless you visit by snowmobile in winter. As a certified International Dark Sky Park , Voyageurs provides opportunities to view the Milky Way on clear evenings, especially in the summer. Year-round aurora viewing is also possible on evenings with clear dark skies, but chances are better during the winter, when it's dark for longer.

For a guided stargazing tour – including the Milky Way, the constellations and (if you're lucky) the northern lights – book with Voyageurs Outfitters. If you're on your own, park officials note that almost any campsite is a good spot for northern lights viewing and stargazing. You can also check out the boat launch areas around Ash River, Kabetogama Lake and the Rainy Lake Visitor Center for top-notch views.

Where to stay: Those who prefer to sleep in a warm, cozy bed instead of camping under the stars can make reservations at the Cantilever Distillery + Hotel, a boutique Trademark Collection by Wyndham property in the nearby town of Ranier, Minnesota. Visitors report that there's a lot to like here, from the industrial-chic rooms to friendly staff to top-notch cocktails in the active distillery on the premises.

Abisko National Park, Sweden

Given its Arctic location, Sweden is one of the prime spots for aurora viewing in the Northern Hemisphere, with Swedish Lapland at the top of the list. The fall and winter months (from September to March) offer the best opportunities to witness the spectacle, as there is more darkness than light during the days.

If you're up for the Arctic adventure, December is an ideal month to visit Abisko National Park, which some regard as one of the best places on Earth to see the lights dance across the sky. The park's mountainous terrain and clear dark skies offer dramatic front-row seats for viewing the northern lights. The Aurora Sky Station is one of the best vantage points to see the aurora in the park. Join one of the expert presentations to learn about the science behind this fascinating phenomenon.

If you'd prefer to chase the lights with a curated tour, professional photographers and aurora-chasing guides at Visit Abisko lead three- to four-hour tours throughout the fall and winter. If you can, try to join the tours in fall, as this time of year offers a unique opportunity to view the lights both in the sky and reflected in the lakes and rivers, which you won't see in the winter months.

Where to stay: For cozy Nordic vibes, stay at Abisko Mountain Lodge, which also offers activities like ice climbing and snowmobile tours in winter. Guests love the excellent restaurant here, which offers Swedish specialties ranging from salmon to moose.

Nellim, Finland

Courtesy of Wilderness Hotels

Located a stone's throw from the Russian border in Finnish Lapland, this remote Arctic destination is a top-rated locale to view the northern lights due to the lack of light pollution. You'll be seriously out of the way of any built-up areas, as there's not even a paved road into Nellim. The best time to visit is between December and early April. This village is a great place to hunker down in a lodge and relax while enjoying a slice of life in the Finnish wilderness.

Where to stay: The Nellim Wilderness Hotel offers a perfect base with year-round activities, including aurora-chasing tours by car, snowmobile or on snowshoes. You can even take a sleigh ride through the snow to a campsite on Lake Inari to spot the aurora in pristine nature.

Beyond standard rooms, the Wilderness Hotel also offers glass-roofed cabins, as well as classic log cabins and bubble-shaped accommodations for two where guests can watch the dancing lights through the glass roof above your warm, cozy bed. When you're not chasing the lights, enjoy other Arctic activities like a husky safari, ice fishing, snowmobiling or a day in the snow meeting the local reindeer.

Saariselkä and Kakslauttanen, Finland

These two towns are around 150 miles above the Arctic Circle, with a prime location under the auroral oval, allowing as many as 200 opportunities per year to see the northern lights (weather permitting, of course). This area in Finnish Lapland is known for its stunning scenery, Sámi culture, cross-country and downhill skiing, and Urho Kekkonen National Park – one of Finland's largest.

Ski enthusiasts can roll two trips into one by hitting the slopes by day in Saariselkä and aurora spotting by night at Finland's northernmost ski resort. March into early April is the best time to view the aurora, as the Finnish Meteorological Institute notes that the weather is usually clearer at this time of year. But it's possible to see the northern lights at any time during the season from late August to early or mid-April.

Where to stay: Seven miles south of Saariselkä sits the village of Kakslauttanen, where you can book two- or four-person Glass Igloos at the Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort. The new Kelo-Glass Igloos, which sleep up to six, mix the comforts of a log chalet with the visibility of the glass roof; enjoy a private sauna, a fireplace and more. There's also an impressive selection of year-round tours and activities at this resort, including northern lights excursions on snowmobiles or by horse-drawn carriage.

Stewart Island, New Zealand

Courtesy of RealNZ

Although they may be isolated, some far-south destinations offer the chance to see the aurora australis – or southern lights. While you might be able to see them year-round in some locations (just as with the northern lights), certain months are better for aurora viewing in the Southern Hemisphere. Stewart Island is regarded as one of the top spots to see the brilliant display in New Zealand , with 85% of the island encompassed by Rakiura National Park, so there are few people and virtually no light pollution. You can reach Stewart Island by flying in from Invercargill or taking a ferry from Bluff.

New Zealand's winter months – June to August – are the best time to see the southern lights; spring and fall are also not bad times to spot them. The brighter summer months, between December and February, make it more difficult to spot the aurora, but there's still a chance you'll catch a glimpse between midnight and 4 a.m.

Where to stay: Consider reserving a room with at Stewart Island Lodge, an intimate bed-and-breakfast. This beautiful property is just minutes by foot from the village of Oban, and the property will pick you up at the ferry terminal for your stay. Past visitors rave about the spectacular views of Halfmoon Bay and the Foveaux Strait from both the rooms and lodge terrace.

Tasmania sits approximately 150 miles south of mainland Australia. This mountainous island is one of relatively few places on the planet where it's theoretically possible to see the aurora 365 days a year due to its latitude, which allows for full darkness even on summer nights. The capital city of Hobart is the easiest point of entry: It's home to Tasmania's largest airport and serves as a convenient base. The city's burgeoning food and cultural scenes will also give you plenty to see and do.

From here you'll be able to reach several great viewing locations with unobstructed and open views of the sea along the southern and southeast coastlines, like Goat Bluff and Tinderbox Bay. When you're not staring at the night sky, splurge on a once-in-a-lifetime helicopter flight with Tasmanian Air Tours. Depending on your whims, your private pilot can whisk you away to soar over the sea cliffs; stop at a local winery to sample local vintages; or head south to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Port Arthur , Tasmania 's historic and most notorious prison.

Where to stay: Reserve accommodations at The Tasman, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Hobart. The historic luxury property is situated along the lively waterfront area with harbor views. Past guests admired the historic building housing the hotel and loved the heritage rooms featuring gas fireplaces for those cold Tasmanian nights.

Expedition cruise to Antarctica

If you're one of the lucky few people on the planet to travel to the southernmost continent on Earth, it may be pricey, but you'll have an adventure of a lifetime in Antarctica, especially if the aurora illuminates the sky. The southern lights are most visible in the winter months (between March and October), but due to weather conditions, only researchers brave the Antarctic winter – and they mostly stay indoors.

However, all hope is not lost if you seek to view the aurora australis in Antarctica. Late-season expedition cruises to this continent offered in March also bring the opportunity to view the southern lights and enjoy the end of Antarctica's fleeting summer. As the days shorten in length, you may encounter light snow across the extreme landscape and ice starting to form on the water's surface.

When it comes to wildlife viewing, humpback whale sightings are abundant, and you'll still see penguin colonies – including king and gentoo penguins. You can also keep your eyes peeled for elephant seals, leopard seals, wandering albatross and other species of birds. When night falls on clear evenings, look for the light show in the southern sky. Companies that offer March voyages include Swoop Antarctica, Atlas Ocean Voyages, Silversea Cruises , Aurora Expeditions and Hurtigruten Expeditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

There's no one location that's widely accepted as the best place to see the northern lights. However, the strongest light displays are within what's called the "auroral oval": a rough circle around the Earth's magnetic northern pole that tends to occur around 60 to 70 degrees of latitude. The oval's exact size expands and contracts (some more southerly destinations can fall under it when the aurora is particularly strong), but there are certain locations that generally fall within the oval most of the time.

These places include:

• Central and northern Alaska
• Large areas of Yukon, the Northwest Territories and northern Quebec in Canada
• Southern Greenland
• Far northern Norway, Sweden and Finland

Within these areas, it could be argued that Iceland is the best place to see the aurora as it experiences much milder temperatures than some other areas within the oval. But this is subjective, and some travelers may prefer a location like Yellowknife in Canada for a full-on, very cold Arctic experience.

The northern lights are only visible when it's dark out. Since many of the best places to see them are so far north that they experience near-constant daylight in the summer, you'll generally want to schedule a trip between late August and early April. However, within this time period, there's some debate about the best time to catch the lights. For example, the aurora tends to be more active around the September and March equinoxes due to stronger solar winds – but on the other hand, your chances of seeing them may be higher in the depths of winter, since there's longer nights and therefore a longer window in which they might appear.

In more southern locations like Minnesota, it may be possible to see the light show in the summer months, but it's still advisable to go at a time when the nights are longer. It can also be worth trying to schedule your northern lights trip when there's a new moon: While the aurora can shine through moonlight, it may be harder to see if there's a full moon.

Of course, cloudy weather can block the aurora even if you go at the right time of year. So, it may be wise to research the local weather patterns at your chosen destination to find out if there's a month where you can expect clearer skies. In many cases, though, there's a little luck involved.

These two countries can offer excellent views of the northern lights, since both are directly under the typical auroral oval. Yet there are some differences to be aware of.

In Norway, you'll need to head to the north of the country to catch the aurora: While they have been sighted in Oslo , the capital and largest city, it's too far south to be a reliable vantage point. Cities like Tromsø are popular spots, but direct flights there are only possible from some European cities, so North Americans will have to take connecting flights. On the other hand, Iceland is generally easier to reach, with direct flights to its capital, Reykjavik, from a large number of U.S. destinations (particularly from the East Coast) with no further connection required.

Since clear skies are key for seeing the northern lights, weather is another factor to consider. In November, December and March, Reykjavik has statistically slightly more frequent clear skies, while in January and February, Tromsø is a little better, but the difference isn't big: Both places have clear skies only around 25 to 30% of the time in these months. Reykjavik has slightly warmer weather, though, so between that and the ease of access, it has a slight edge over Norway for seeing the northern lights.

Alaska and Iceland are known for stellar aurora light shows, so deciding between them may depend on which destination you find more convenient and more to your tastes. In Alaska , the city of Fairbanks is considered a great spot to catch the northern lights. (They can still be seen elsewhere in the state – for example, in Anchorage, although they're not so common in more southern locations like Juneau). The advantage of Fairbanks is that you won't need a passport , yet there aren't many direct flights from the lower 48 states. Despite being an international destination, Iceland may be more accessible (particularly from the eastern U.S.), thanks to fairly regular flights to Reykjavik from numerous American cities.

Fairbanks does offer statistically better weather for aurora viewing: It has clear skies more often than Reykjavik, particularly in March when the Alaska city experiences them around 45% of the time (compared to about 25% for Reykjavik). But you'll have to be able to tolerate the cold. While temperatures in Reykjavik hover around freezing in midwinter, Fairbanks is a veritable deep freeze, with average highs around 5 degrees Fahrenheit down to lows colder than minus 5 in December.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Timothy Forster , as a Canadian who has traveled from coast to coast in that sprawling country, knows all about travel in the cold northern reaches of the world. Forster used his extensive traveling background along with research expertise to curate this article.

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