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Aurora hunting in Levi | Best time to see the Northern Lights

Planning a trip to Levi and dreaming of seeing the Northern Lights dance above Lapland’s wilderness? With vast open skies, snow-covered fells, and minimal light pollution, Levi is one of Finland’s most reliable Aurora-viewing spots. From guided chases by minivan to thrilling snowmobile rides and cozy campfire nights, here’s how to time your visit for the best chance to witness the magic.

Best time to see the Northern Lights in Levi

The best time to see the Northern Lights in Levi is from late August to early April. Nestled deep in Finnish Lapland, Levi’s remote location and minimal light pollution make it one of the most dependable places in the world for Aurora viewing. Here’s what makes these months ideal:

Couple watching Northern Lights in Levi, Finland.
  • Extended Arctic nights: Between September and March, Levi’s nights grow long and dark, offering several hours of clear sky for aurora watching. The surrounding fells and frozen lakes create an open panorama, perfect for spotting green and violet ribbons dancing overhead.
  • Peak winter conditions: From December to February, the Polar Nights bring deep darkness and crisp, still air, excellent for Northern Lights photography. Most Levi Northern Lights tours depart between 7pm and 10pm, right when the skies are at their clearest.
  • Cold-weather clarity: January and February often bring calm, high-pressure spells that sweep away clouds, revealing starry skies above Levi’s snow-dusted wilderness. These are some of the best nights for snowmobile safaris or campfire tours under the lights.

Best months to see the Northern Lights in Levi

Silhouette of person pointing at Northern Lights in Levi, Finland.

Northern Lights in Levi: September

September marks the beginning of aurora season in Levi, with nights turning darker and the first shimmering displays lighting up the horizon.

Aurora activity & weather: Aurora activity returns as daylight fades. Temperatures hover between -2°C and 5°C (28°F–41°F), comfortable for outdoor chases.

Advantages:

  • Quieter trails and fewer tourists, ideal for peaceful viewing.
  • Autumn foliage and reflective lakes add warm contrast to the green aurora bands.

Tip: Nights are still relatively short; plan guided tours around the darkest hours and bring layered clothing for chilly evenings.

Person photographing Northern Lights on snowy landscape during tour.

Northern Lights in Levi: October

October brings longer, colder nights and more consistent aurora activity. Early snow may dust Levi’s fells, setting a magical backdrop for evening chases.

Aurora activity & weather: The nights grow steadily darker; auroras become brighter and more frequent. Temperatures dip below freezing.

Advantages:

  • Early winter landscapes create beautiful photo conditions.
  • Smaller crowds allow for more intimate aurora safaris.

Tip: Weather can shift quickly, pack thermal wear and waterproof layers for night excursions.

Northern Lights over snowy landscape and water.

 Northern Lights in Levi: November

November ushers in true Arctic nights, making it one of the most reliable months for Northern Lights sightings in Levi. Snow blankets the region, creating a quiet, glowing wilderness.

Aurora activity & weather: Extended darkness and colder temperatures (-5°C and below) mean higher visibility for vivid aurora shows.

Advantages:

  • Excellent viewing hours with long, still nights.
  • Snow-covered trees and frozen lakes enhance the experience.

Tip: Book tours in advance, November’s stable weather attracts serious aurora hunters.

Man on snowmobile under Northern Lights in Levi, Finland.

Northern Lights in Levi: December

December offers the darkest skies and the most enchanting winter atmosphere. With festive lights and deep snow, Levi becomes a fairytale village under the aurora.

Aurora activity & weather: The Polar Night brings 18–20 hours of darkness; temperatures range from -10°C to -20°C (14°F–-4°F).

Advantages:

  • Maximum darkness for aurora chases by minivan or snowmobile.
  • Levi’s winter charm adds to the overall experience.

Tip: Dress in multiple layers and insulated boots; this is one of Levi’s coldest months. Book early for peak-season tours.

Auroras over snowy forest during Northern lights sauna experience in levi

Northern Lights in Levi: January

January is Levi’s coldest month, but also among the clearest for Northern Lights. The long, starry nights make for stunning photo conditions.

Aurora activity & weather: Crisp, cloud-free skies and deep Arctic darkness heighten aurora intensity. Expect -20°C (-4°F) or lower.

Advantages:

  • Best visibility and contrast for photographing auroras.
  • Quieter atmosphere after the holiday season.

Tip: Opt for snowmobile or campfire tours for warmth and adventure during your chase.

Reindeer pulling a sled under the Northern Lights in snowy Lapland forest.

Northern Lights in Levi: February

February brings slightly longer days but remains prime time for aurora viewing. The weather stabilizes, and Levi’s snowy landscapes are at their most photogenic.

Aurora activity & weather: Temperatures hover around -10°C (14°F), with clear skies and regular aurora activity.

Advantages:

  • Balanced daylight for daytime skiing or reindeer safaris, plus long dark evenings for aurora tours.
  • Reliable weather and strong solar activity.

Tip: Plan your tour around a new moon for maximum contrast and visibility.

Moon phases and their impact on aurora viewing in Levi

The brightness of the moon can influence how clearly you see the Northern Lights in Levi. A full moon casts a silvery glow over the fells and snowfields, softening the contrast of faint auroras but creating stunning landscapes when the lights are strong. In contrast, a new moon brings darker skies, perfect for vibrant, high-contrast displays that ripple vividly across Levi’s wide Arctic horizons.

Best time of night to see the Northern Lights in Levi

Northern Lights over snowy forest in Levi, Finland.
  • Peak viewing: The Northern Lights in Levi are usually most active between 9pm and 11pm, when the skies are darkest and geomagnetic activity peaks, perfect for photography or joining guided chases by minivan or snowmobile.
  • Special winter nights: From late November through January, Levi’s long Arctic nights provide extended hours for aurora hunting. On clear evenings, the lights can appear as early as 7pm and linger past midnight.
  • Tip: Head away from Levi’s village lights to open areas or frozen lakes for the best visibility. Many tours include stops in remote wilderness spots where the aurora glows vividly across the snow-covered fells.

Northern Lights forecast in Levi

To boost your chances of catching the Northern Lights in Levi, keep an eye on the Aurora forecast before heading out. Real-time updates on solar activity, cloud cover, and geomagnetic conditions help you plan your evening for the clearest and most colorful displays.

Even small shifts in cloud patterns or solar winds can determine whether the aurora bursts across Levi’s sky or remains hidden behind clouds. Most Levi Northern Lights tours track these forecasts closely, adjusting routes and timing so you’re in the right place at the right moment for a spectacular show.

Why long winter nights enhance aurora viewing in Levi 

Couple watching Northern Lights in Levi, Finland.
  • Levi’s long, dark winter nights, from late November to mid-January, create ideal conditions for spotting the Northern Lights. With up to 20 hours of darkness, aurora chasers have plenty of time to witness multiple displays in a single evening, whether on a guided chase or a cozy campfire tour.
  • Even during the brief daylight hours, Levi’s snow-covered fells, frozen lakes, and soft Arctic twilight provide a stunning backdrop, making each aurora sighting even more memorable.
  • For the most reliable and vivid Northern Lights experiences, Levi’s extended winter nights offer the perfect balance of darkness, stillness, and natural beauty.

Seeing the Northern Lights in 2026

The year 2026 is predicted to be a peak one for viewing the aurora borealis due to the sun reaching the maximum phase of its 11-year solar cycle. This solar maximum means increased solar activity, leading to more frequent and intense auroras that may be visible at lower latitudes than usual, potentially extending to regions like the northern UK and parts of the United States. The solar maximum is expected to peak through early 2026, making this period an exceptional opportunity for aurora viewing.

What to expect:

  • Increased frequency and intensity: The sun's heightened activity will result in more frequent and vivid displays of the northern lights throughout the year.
  • Widespread visibility: Auroras could be visible in more southerly latitudes than typical, offering viewing opportunities to regions that rarely see them.
  • Peak viewing window: Solar maximum is projected to peak through March 2026, with the best chances for spectacular displays during this timeframe.
  • Optimal locations: Prime viewing spots include northern Scandinavia, Iceland, Alaska, Canada, and northern Scotland—all offering dark skies and clear views of the northern horizon.
  • Winter advantage: The long, dark nights of winter months (December through February) provide extended viewing windows and ideal conditions.
  • Plan ahead: Book accommodations early in popular aurora destinations, as this rare solar event is expected to draw significant interest from travelers worldwide.

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Book Northern Lights tours in Levi

Levi: Northern Lights Chase Tour
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2 hr 30 min - 8 hr
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Levi: Northern Lights Chase with Unlimited Mileage & Guaranteed Sightings
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8 hr
Transfers included
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Levi: Northern Lights Snowmobile Tour
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2 hr - 3 hr
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Levi: Northern Lights with Campfire & Barbecue
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3 hr
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Frequently asked questions about the best time to see Northern Lights in Levi 

When is the best time of year to see the Northern Lights in Levi?

The best time to see the Northern Lights in Levi is from late August to early April. During these months, nights are long and dark, providing excellent conditions for aurora viewing.

What time of night are the Northern Lights most visible in Levi?

The Northern Lights usually appear between 9pm and 11pm, though sightings can occur anytime between 7pm and 2am depending on solar activity. Guided tours often schedule departures during these hours for the highest chance of success.

What are the best months for photography?

November to February offer deep darkness, snowy landscapes, and stable weather, ideal for crisp Northern Lights shots. The reflection of auroras on snow and ice adds a dramatic touch to photos taken during this time.

Is it possible to see the Northern Lights every night in Levi?

While Levi has high aurora visibility, up to 200 nights a year, sightings depend on solar activity and cloud cover. Joining a professional Northern Lights chase increases your chances, as guides monitor real-time forecasts and travel to clear-sky locations.

What should I wear during Northern Lights tours in Levi?

Temperatures can drop to -20°C (-4°F) or below in winter. Wear thermal layers, insulated outerwear, gloves, and waterproof boots. Many tours provide additional cold-weather gear to keep you warm during long viewing sessions.

What happens if I don’t see the Northern Lights on my tour?

Some Levi tours, like the Northern Lights Chase with Unlimited Mileage, maximize your chances by traveling long distances to find clear skies. While sightings can’t be guaranteed, these flexible chases give you the best opportunity to experience the aurora.