Norway, especially the North of the country, is a great place to see the amazing Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis. This amazing night sky lights display is one of life’s must-sees and features on so many people’s bucket lists.
But the Aurora Borealis can be fickle. It seems to enjoy playing tricks. Sometimes, when forecasts predict no Northern Lights, they suddenly appear on the distant horizon. And when the lights are predicted as highly likely, they disappear behind clouds or fail to come out at all. It happens rather often! But don’t worry! In a Campervan or motorhome you have a superb opportunity to move around according to the aurora forecast and to sit inside your van, all warm and cosy (Our Campervans are winter ready) , and look out the window at the night sky. (Just remember to turn off the interior lights, make some tea and stay awake for as long as you can.)
What are the Northern Lights?
The bright lights of the Aurora are collisions between electrically charged particles from the Sun that enter the earth’s atmosphere. The lights that can be seen above the magnetic poles of the northern hemispheres are called Aurora Borealis, while those seen above the southern hemispheres are known as Aurora Australis.
How will I know if I am seeing Aurora Borealis?
The lights display themselves against a dark sky in a wide range of colours, although pale green and pink are the most common. You might also be lucky enough to see Northern Light displays in red, yellow, green, blue and/or violet. The lights form in all kinds of shapes from patches to streams, arcs, curtains or an eerie kind of glow.
Where to see the Northern Lights in Norway
The further north you are the greater your chances of spotting a display. However, there are increasing reports of the lights being seen further south.
Conditions also need to be right. So clearer skies and areas away from man-made light, such as urban house and streets lights, are best. A bright moon can obscure a good view of the Northern Lights.
You’ll also require some patience. A quick look outdoors is unlikely to give you a good result. When you think that there might be a good sighting (for example, you could track Nordlysvarsel.com ) spend as much time looking outdoors or being outdoors as you can. As we said, the lights can be fickle.
We are a Campervan rental company based in Bergen, Norway! Our Campervans are handmade with love and we always do our best to help you plan the trip of your life! Book your campervan now and have that Vanlife experience!
