Many believe that not chasing the aurora in youth leaves a lifelong regret. However, witnessing this mesmerizing natural phenomenon is not as simple as it sounds—it requires favorable timing, location, and preparation.

This guide covers everything necessary to experience the aurora successfully, from understanding its levels to practical prediction tools and top destinations.

Understanding Aurora Levels

Auroras are classified into ten levels based on the Earth's magnetic field disturbances. Higher numbers indicate more active auroras, brighter visuals, and more vibrant photographs.

Levels 1 and 2 auroras are faint, requiring long camera exposures of over 30 seconds to capture, often vanishing in moments.

Levels 3 and 4 auroras are more active and appear as faint green hues, commonly associated with visible auroras.

Levels 5 and above showcase stunning, vivid displays visible to the human eye, often including purples. At levels 8–10, the spectacle becomes unforgettable, with even casual photographs capturing their brilliance.

Aurora Predictions

Like tides, auroras follow natural cycles, typically peaking every 11 years. Reliable prediction is essential, especially during low-activity phases. A recommended tool is the Aurora Forecast website. This platform provides real-time updates on aurora predictions, solar wind strength, moon phases, weather, and KP values, refreshed every hour. Users can also view three-day forecasts in three-hour intervals. The greener the map, the higher the chance of seeing auroras.

Top 5 Global Aurora Viewing Destinations

These renowned locations offer some of the best opportunities to witness auroras: Alaska, Canada (Yellowknife and Whitehorse), Finland, and Iceland.

Fairbanks, Alaska, USA

Fairbanks, often dubbed the "Aurora Capital," is one of North America's closest cities to the Arctic Circle. With over 200 aurora-viewing days annually, it has become a top destination for enthusiasts. On clear nights with strong auroras, the spectacle is visible even within the city limits. Visitors can enjoy unique activities such as ice sculpting and soaking in hot springs under the aurora.

- Best Viewing Period: Early September to late April

- Aurora Intensity: Levels 3–5

Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, Canada

Yellowknife lies directly beneath the auroral oval, just 400 km from the Arctic Circle. With its flat terrain, minimal light pollution, and long, dark winters, this NASA-recognized destination offers an exceptional 98% chance of seeing the aurora during peak seasons. Visitors can also experience local traditions like staying in Indigenous-style tents and enjoying dog sledding.

- Best Viewing Period: Mid-August to late September, mid-November to mid-April

- Aurora Intensity: Levels 3–5

Whitehorse, Yukon, Canada

Whitehorse, the largest northern city in Canada, is an excellent spot for viewing auroras due to its proximity to Alaska and its northern latitude. This area also offers winter activities like snowmobiling, ice fishing, and sightseeing flights, creating a well-rounded experience.

- Best Viewing Period: August to April

- Aurora Intensity: Levels 3–5

Lapland, Finland

As Finland's northernmost and largest administrative region, Lapland lies almost entirely within the Arctic Circle. Famous as the home of X-mas, it features unique attractions like the X-mas Village and glass igloo accommodations, allowing visitors to enjoy the aurora comfortably indoors. The northern part of Lapland has a 75% chance of aurora sightings during winter, making it one of Europe’s best spots for this spectacle.

- Best Viewing Period: November to March

- Aurora Intensity: Levels 3–5

Reykjavik, Iceland

Iceland stands out as the only country globally where auroras can be seen nationwide. Although the island’s unpredictable weather, frequent rain, and occasional snowstorms pose challenges, the expansive viewing opportunities across its territory make it unparalleled. The striking contrast between black sand beaches, floating icebergs, and auroras reflected on tranquil glacial lagoons creates unforgettable scenes.

- Best Viewing Period: October to March

- Aurora Intensity: Levels 2–3

Aurora hunting combines science, preparation, and a touch of luck. With this guide to aurora levels, predictions, and the top five viewing destinations, travelers can maximize their chances of witnessing this awe-inspiring natural wonder on their first attempt. Whether soaking in a hot spring in Alaska or watching from a glass igloo in Finland, the experience promises memories to last a lifetime.