Northern Lights in Greenland 2024-2025

Although winter in Greenland is long, dark, and cold, it does have a bright side. With a small population and minimal light pollution, Greenland is considered one of the best places on Earth to view the northern lights or aurora borealis dancing across the night sky. The Northern Lights typically appear in green, purple, and yellow, but shades of red, blue, and pink have also been reported. The color of the shimmering lights depends on the molecules and altitudes involved.

When to see Northern Lights?

If it weren't for the midnight sun, the Aurora Borealis would be visible year-round. However, the season is limited to the fall and winter months, specifically from September through early April. In the southernmost areas, the light show can begin as early as the end of August, with the prime viewing period being November to mid-March. Visiting in the dead of winter ensures that Greenland lives up to its colorful reputation. Additionally, consider the clarity of the sky and the phase of the Moon. To minimize extra light, choose a week with a New Moon. A week before the New Moon would be even better if you prefer to go to bed earlier.

Aurora Borealis Forecast

Predicting the aurora borealis can be difficult, with forecasts typically available just a few days ahead. Despite this uncertainty, regularly checking official prediction websites can improve your chances of seeing this captivating natural spectacle. Check the websites of the NOAA/NWS Space Weather Prediction Center, University of Alaska Fairbanks, which publish aurora forecasts. The key is to look for a forecasted Kp index of four or higher.

Where can you see Northern Lights?

The Aurora Borealis regularly flickers above the dark, clear skies of South Greenland. You can observe the lights anywhere from Nanortalik in the south to Uummannaq in the northwest and Ittoqqortoormiit in the northeast. However, certain locations are considered the best for viewing.

Kangerlussuaq

If you are traveling from Copenhagen, Kangerlussuaq will become your getaway to Greenland. With nearly 300 clear nights per year, this small town on the western side of the island is one of the top sites to capture Aurora Borealis. Kangerlussuaq is among the best not just within Greenland, but across the entire Arctic circle.

Sisimiut

For the utmost conditions, head out on a northern lights tour. A great option would be a mountain safari in the coastal town of Sisimiut. Also, check out other famous sites of the area, such as Greenland Icesheet or Russell Glacier. Sisimiut, located just north of the polar circle, is accessible by a 30-minute flight from Kangerlussuaq. It combines modern Greenland with traditional Inuit culture and offers various winter activities, including dog sledding, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing. Many travelers visit both Kangerlussuaq and Sisimiut on the same trip.

Ilulissat (Disko Bay)

Another ideal place on the west coast is the town of Ilulissat. The flickering curtains of Northern Lights regularly appear over the Ilulissat Icefjord and the Disco Bay. Enormous icebergs below the cliffs on the background make for surreal landscapes and unbeatable experience. To make the most of this beautiful place, explore it further on snowshoes, a snowmobile, a dogsled, or a drive.

Scoresby Sund

Scoresby Sund is one of the most remote destinations in Greenland, located on the east coast. It boasts one of the largest fjord systems in the world and is surrounded by colossal icebergs and dramatic scenery. With 0% light pollution, it's an exceptional spot for witnessing the northern lights.

Nuuk

Ironically, standing in the very center of the largest city in Greenland, you can still see the lightshow. Nuuk must be the only Arctic capital that can boast such a luxury. Locals may call it ‘Nuuk York’, however, the city's population is less than 1% of NYC. The night tours to the darkest outskirts of the city naturally offer more to see. You'll be lucky if you spot the green glow over the iconic Sermitsiaq mountain. Use your days to explore the city and its culture, and discover its stunning fjord system deemed to be the second-largest one in the world.

East Greenland (Tasiilaq & Kulusuk)

At last, explore the eastern side of the island for aurora borealis sightings. One of the most popular spots to check out includes Tasiilaq. With nearly 2,000 residents, it's the seventh-largest town in Greenland and the most populated community in East Greenland. Another hot spot is a small coastal town of Kulusuk with an international airport. The main benefit of eastern coastline of the island is its high and pointed mountain landscape creates a perfect background for the northern lights photos. Springtime is the most vibrant time here with a plentitude of activities to enjoy along with polar lights.

What to wear?

If you've decided to chase the aurora borealis in Greenland, you'll be visiting during the coldest season, making appropriate clothing essential for an enjoyable experience. Dressing in layers is key, and it's better to overdress since you can always remove layers. Some tour operators provide heavy winter clothing, but be sure to double-check what is included in the tour you're interested in.

Tips for catching Northern Lights

If you missed the northern lights before, remember they don’t need to be directly overhead and can be seen from over 600 miles away. To improve your chances, escape city lights and obstructions, look north a few hours after sunset, and watch for colors like green, pink, and red. These colors are often most vivid around midnight. Modern smartphones, like the iPhone 14, can capture the aurora well, especially with night mode and a steady hand or tripod.