A Northern lights all-inclusive trip is a bucket-list adventure for many travelers, offering a chance to witness one of nature's most stunning phenomena in the most comfortable and stress-free way. With everything from accommodations to excursions taken care of, these trips allow you to focus solely on the awe-inspiring spectacle of the aurora borealis. To ensure you make the most of your all-inclusive experience, here are some tips to help you plan and enjoy this unforgettable journey.
1. Choose the Best Location for Viewing the Northern Lights
The success of your Northern lights all-inclusive trip depends largely on where you go. While the northern reaches of countries like Norway, Sweden, Finland, Iceland, and Canada are known for spectacular aurora displays, each destination offers something unique.
- Norway: Tromsø, known as the “Gateway to the Arctic,” is a popular Northern Lights destination. Its location above the Arctic Circle makes it a prime viewing spot.
- Finland: Finnish Lapland offers cozy glass igloos or wilderness cabins, providing a comfortable viewing experience from the warmth of your lodging.
- Iceland: Combining geothermal wonders with aurora hunting, Iceland is a popular choice for travelers looking to experience more than just the lights.
Each location has its own distinct charm, so consider what additional experiences—like dog sledding, hot springs, or cultural tours—you’d like to pair with your trip.
2. Time Your Trip Right
The Northern Lights can be elusive, so timing your trip correctly is crucial. The best time to see the auroras is during the winter months, typically between September and April, when the nights are longest and the skies are darkest.
Keep in mind that the aurora borealis is a natural phenomenon, so there are no guarantees of seeing the lights every night. However, booking a multi-night Northern lights all-inclusive trip increases your chances. Many all-inclusive packages offer guided night tours, increasing the likelihood of spotting the lights based on local weather and aurora activity forecasts.
3. Dress Warmly and Be Prepared
When embarking on your Northern Lights adventure, it’s essential to be dressed for the Arctic climate. Even if your all-inclusive trip provides cold-weather gear, it’s a good idea to bring your own thermal layers, wool socks, gloves, and hats. The best time to witness the Northern Lights is during the colder months, so you’ll likely be spending extended periods outdoors in sub-zero temperatures.
Make sure your Northern lights all-inclusive trip itinerary includes plenty of downtime for warming up between excursions, whether it's cozying up by the fire at a log cabin or soaking in a hot tub under the open sky.
4. Capture the Moment with Photography
While no photo can fully capture the magic of the Northern Lights, bringing a good camera and knowing how to use it will help you preserve the memories. To capture the auroras, you’ll need a DSLR camera, a wide-angle lens, and a tripod to keep your camera steady during long exposures. Set your camera to a high ISO and use a long exposure time to bring out the colors of the aurora in your photos.
Many Northern lights all-inclusive trips offer photography workshops or guides to help you get the best possible shots. Take advantage of these opportunities to learn tips and tricks from experts who know how to navigate low-light conditions.
5. Embrace the Full Arctic Experience
One of the best parts of a Northern lights all-inclusive trip is the range of activities that come bundled into your package. Beyond the Northern Lights, many trips offer quintessential Arctic experiences, such as:
- Dog sledding: Glide across the snow with a team of huskies.
- Snowmobiling: Explore the Arctic wilderness at high speed.
- Reindeer sleigh rides: Experience a traditional mode of transportation while learning about indigenous Sami culture.
- Ice fishing: Try your hand at catching fish in a frozen lake.
- Hot springs: Relax in geothermal waters while keeping an eye out for the auroras.
These activities help round out your trip, making it an unforgettable adventure even if the lights don't make an appearance every night.
6. Enjoy the Local Cuisine
An often-overlooked highlight of an all-inclusive Northern lights trip is the local cuisine. Most packages include traditional Arctic meals, giving you a taste of the region’s unique flavors. Depending on your destination, you may find yourself enjoying dishes like reindeer stew, arctic char, or Finnish pastries. Many all-inclusive resorts and lodges also offer gourmet dining experiences, where you can enjoy fine cuisine while keeping watch for the auroras through large picture windows or even from your glass igloo.
7. Relax and Unwind
The beauty of a Northern lights all-inclusive trip is that everything is taken care of, so you can truly relax and enjoy the experience. Take time to unwind in your comfortable accommodations, whether it’s a luxury lodge, cozy cabin, or unique glass igloo. Some trips even include wellness amenities like saunas or hot tubs, offering the perfect way to relax after a night of aurora hunting.
Conclusion
A Northern lights all-inclusive trip offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the beauty of the aurora borealis while enjoying the ease and convenience of having all the details handled for you. By choosing the right location, timing your visit well, dressing warmly, and embracing all the additional experiences available, you can make the most of your adventure. Whether you're watching the lights dance above you or experiencing the thrill of Arctic activities, this trip promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.