Lake Inari shore
Step out to the lakeshore next to the village for a huge, open sky. In winter the frozen lake becomes a vast, quiet viewing platform.
Northern lights in Inari
Deep in the north, the vast frozen Lake Inari gives an unbroken horizon in every direction. The heartland of Sámi culture.
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Tonight in InariPossible chanceClouds … · dark 17:15–06:40 · #2 of 6 tonight
Lake Inari · 68.91° N
Seeing the aurora in Inari
Inari sits on the shore of Lake Inari, Finland’s third-largest lake, deep in northern Lapland at almost 69° N. This is close to the auroral oval, so even quiet nights can bring the lights overhead.
The village is small and dark, the lake gives an unbroken horizon in every direction, and Inari is the heart of Sámi culture in Finland.
Getting there
Fly to Ivalo Airport (IVL), about 40 km south, or drive about four hours north from Rovaniemi on the E75.
Quick facts
- Latitude
- 68.91° N
- From Rovaniemi
- ≈ 4 h
- Kp usually needed
- 0.4+
- Season
- Late Aug – early Apr
- Sits close to the auroral oval
- Huge open lake views with no city light
- Sámi Museum Siida and culture
- Quiet, wilderness-style nights
Where to stand
Best viewpoints in Inari
Juutuanjoki river
The river that runs through the village towards the lake – beautiful foregrounds for photos within walking distance.
Pielpajärvi trail area
The forest trail towards the old Pielpajärvi wilderness church leads quickly away from all lights. Only go with proper gear and a headlamp.
Live weather maps
Weather & clouds in Inari
Live weather map and the next 48 hours in Inari – darker bands show the hours dark enough for auroras.
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Map: Windy.com (ECMWF model) · Forecast: Open-Meteo · Updated every 5 minutes
Questions
Inari northern lights FAQ
Is Inari good for seeing the northern lights?
Yes – Inari is one of the best places in Finland. It lies close to the auroral oval, has very little light pollution and open lake views.
How do I get to Inari?
The nearest airport is Ivalo, about 40 km away. From Rovaniemi it is about four hours by car or bus.
What else is there to do in Inari?
Visit the Sámi Museum and Nature Centre Siida, try ice fishing on Lake Inari, or go snowshoeing and husky riding in the surrounding wilderness.
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