Far east in Norway, by the Russian border, Kirkenes offers optional conditions for witnessing the Northern Lights. The geographical advantage, combined with the area’s long, dark winters, creates perfect conditions for adventurous seeking Aurora Borealis. Thanks to its remote location and minimal light pollution, Kirkenes offers unparalleled opportunities to see this amazing phenomenon blow up the sky in vivid colours.ce. 

Activities to Combine with Northern Lights Viewing in Kirkenes

Kirkenes offers a range of winter activities allowing you to chase the Northern Lights. Popular activities include a relaxing bus ride where the expert guides take you to the best Aurora spots,  dog sledding, with a team of huskies leading the way through snow-covered tundra, and snowmobiling, where a thrilling ride through the pristine wilderness hopefully takes you straight to the aurora-lit sky. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top options:

Hunting the Northern Lights with a Snowmobile
Ride through the Arctic wilderness on your very own snowmobile. Choose an evening trip for the chance to spot the Northern Lights. These tours take you deep into the untouched nature in Kirkenes, far away from the light pollution. Learn more and book here.
 

Hunting the Northern Lights with Huskies
Combine your Northern Lights experience with a classic Arctic adventure. On the dog sledding tours a team of happy huskies will guide you through the snowy landscapes. In the right conditions, and with a bit of luck on your side, the Northern Lights will dance above you all evening, making the adventure even more special. Learn more and book here

Northern Lights Hunt by bus 

Looking for a comfortable and convenient way to chase the Aurora? On this tour you can relax in the back of the bus while the expert guides take you to the best Aurora spots based on current weather and Aurora forecasts.During your trip your guide will share fascinating stories and facts about the Northern Lights, as well as give you tips on how to capture the perfect photo of this breathtaking phenomenon. Learn more and book here.

The Kirkenes Snowhotel – The Ultimate Base for Your Northern Lights Trip

At Kirkenes Snowhotel you’ll get treated to the full Arctic experience. Stay in a cosy cabin inspired by the traditional Sami fishing and hunting huts. By the window you will find a neat little seating area, where you, on a clear night, could even spot the Northern Lights if you are lucky. Overnight stays include breakfast and a three course dinner in Låven – the unique farmhouse restaurant overlooking the beautiful icy fjord. Enjoy hearty, traditional dishes, and get a real taste of the Arctic. 

Looking to add even more excitement to your trip? Spend a night in the Snowhotel itself – a hotel entirely made from snow and ice. Each room has its own theme and unique snow sculptures illuminated in different coloured lights. Nestling into your sleeping bag while you rest on top of a ice bed is a moment you’ll remember forever.

With many Northern Lights tours and other winter activities starting right at the hotel, the Snowhotel is the perfect base for your Kirkenes adventure. Whether you are looking to explore the Arctic on a snowmobile safari, a dog sledding adventure, a king crab adventure, or a bus tour, the Snowhotel offers everything you need for a memorable stay. 

Kirkenes Beyond the Northern Lights

Another main attraction while staying at the Snowhotel Kirkenes, is King Crab Fishing. Join a tour taking you out to the fjord and help pull up the crab pots through a hole in the ice. The tour ends with a delicious crab meal served in the Snowhotel Kirkenes restaurant. Caught wild and fresh, straight from the Barents Sea, into the casserole and onto your plate – the king crab is definitely a dish you’ll need to explore on your visit.

Kirkenes also has a rich cultural and historical heritage for you to explore on your visit. There is a lot of rich history connected to World War II, and its history is well-documented in the Borderland Museum, which offers insights into the region's wartime history and its close ties with Russia.

The ancient Sami culture is also an integral part of the Kirkenes region. Learn more about the authentic Sami way of life, including reindeer herding, handicrafts, and the unique connection between the Sami people and Mother Nature. Understanding the local culture will add to your experience when visiting a place different from your home place.

FAQs About Northern Lights in Kirkenes

When is the best time to see the Northern Lights in Kirkenes?

The optimal time for Northern Lights sightings is Kirkenes, during the darker periods, approximately between late September and early April.

What are the chances of seeing the Northern Lights in Kirkenes?

Due to its location above the Arctic circle, Kirkenes has over 200 Northern Lights nights a year. This means you’ll have frequent opportunities to spot the lights when visiting during winter time.

How cold does it get in Kirkenes during winter?

The temperatures Kirkenes can drop to -20°C (-4°F) or lower during winter time. Remember to dress warmly to ensure a comfortable stay. 

How do I take pictures of the Northern Lights? 

Use a DSLR camera with manual settings and a wide-angle lens. Use a tripod for stability and set a long exposure time (2-5 seconds) with a high ISO (3200-6400). Focus manually and shoot in RAW to retain maximum detail. To avoid the camera shaking, use a timer or remote shutter. Read more about how to take pictures of the Northern Lights here.

Ready for an adventure? Book your Kirkenes Northern Lights Trip today

Kirkenes is a great destination for adventures on a mission to capture the Northern Lights. In this region you are in for a complete Arctic experience – with everything you need in the same place. From dog sledding, snowmobiling and king crab fishing, to local food, stunning nature, and long nights of Northern Lights chases, you will really get to experience the real Northern Norway. Book your trip to Kirkenes now and get ready for an unforgettable adventure.