Best Time to See the Northern Lights in Lofoten
The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, is one of the world’s greatest natural wonders – and Lofoten is among the best places on earth to experience it. With mountains rising straight from the sea and dark Arctic skies stretching overhead, the aurora here feels close, wild, and unforgettable. But when exactly should you come to Lofoten to see it?
The season: August to April
The Northern Lights are present above Lofoten all year round, but during summer the midnight sun keeps the sky too bright to see them. The moment darkness returns in late August, the aurora season begins.
Our local guide Dave once told us his first Northern Lights tour started on 26 August – proof that you don’t need to wait for deep winter to experience the magic. From then until mid-April, you have good chances of seeing the aurora if the skies are clear.
Which months are best?
September & October: These months offer mild weather, colourful autumn landscapes, and the first long nights. It’s a great balance if you want to combine aurora with hiking and less-crowded travel.
November to February: The darkest part of the year and the classic Northern Lights season. Long nights bring the strongest displays, often lighting up snowy beaches and frozen fjords.
March & early April: Days are longer, but nights are still dark enough for the aurora. The weather can be more stable, making it an excellent time to combine winter adventures with aurora chasing.
Experiencing the Aurora
The Northern Lights can appear anytime it’s dark, but the most active hours are usually between 20:00 and 02:00, with a peak around midnight. Patience is key: sometimes the sky stays quiet for hours, only to suddenly explode in green and purple rivers of light.
Unlike many destinations, you don’t need to drive far to escape city lights in Lofoten. Step outside Svolvær and within minutes you’ll find beaches, piers, or open hillsides with dark skies. The aurora here doesn’t just appear above flat land – it dances over jagged peaks, fishing villages, and wide Arctic seascapes, making the setting just as breathtaking as the lights themselves.
What to Wear
Standing outside at night in Arctic weather can be colder than you expect. On our first aurora chase we wore too few layers and quickly felt frozen – but when the sky lit up, we forgot everything else. The show was worth it.
Bring thermal underwear, a warm sweater, wind- and waterproof outer layers, hat, mittens, and insulated boots. Always pack an extra layer in your bag. The more comfortable you are, the longer you’ll be able to enjoy the lights.
Waiting under the Arctic sky is part of the adventure. And when the lights finally appear, moving across the mountains and sea, it becomes a moment you will never forget!
