Six proven aurora spots in Finnish Lapland, ranked by tonight’s live odds – from the Arctic Circle in Rovaniemi to the fells of Kilpisjärvi.
The most likely spot is always on top. The order combines the aurora forecast, cloud cover and darkness at each spot, and re-ranks itself every 5 minutes.
Finland’s arm-tip between Sweden and Norway, guarded by the sacred Saana fell. Remote, high and right under the auroral oval.
The capital of Lapland sits right on the Arctic Circle – and the best seat in town is Olleronvaara, a quiet forested hill just north-west of the centre. High enough to escape the city glow, close enough to land at the airport and be under the sky within half an hour.
Read the Rovaniemi guideDeep in the north, the vast frozen Lake Inari gives an unbroken horizon in every direction. The heartland of Sámi culture.
Read the Inari guide
A compact fell village on the edge of Urho Kekkonen National Park. Climb Kaunispää or Kiilopää for a 360° view above the treeline.
Read the Saariselkä guideFinland’s arm-tip between Sweden and Norway, guarded by the sacred Saana fell. Remote, high and right under the auroral oval.
Read the Kilpisjärvi guide
Lapland’s largest ski resort. Take the gondola or snowshoe up Levitunturi and leave the village lights below you.
Read the Levi guide
A small border village on the Torne river, right on the Arctic Circle. Wide river valleys, lean-to shelters and almost no artificial light.
Read the Pello guide| Spot | Latitude | From Rovaniemi | Kp usually needed | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rovaniemi | 66.5° N | City centre | 1.9+ | Easiest to reach |
| Inari | 68.9° N | ≈ 4 h | 0.4+ | Under the oval |
| Saariselkä | 68.4° N | ≈ 3 h | 0.7+ | Fell tops |
| Kilpisjärvi | 69.0° N | ≈ 5 h | 0.3+ | Most remote |
| Levi | 67.8° N | ≈ 2 h | 1.1+ | Resort village |
| Pello | 66.8° N | ≈ 1.5 h | 1.7+ | Hidden gem |