Best Northern Lights Photography in Norway 2026
Norway is one of the world's premier destinations for northern lights photography, with 11 top spots offering this experience. Dedicated long-exposure aurora photography tours with expert instruction, covering camera settings, composition, and timing — often with equipment loan available. Best locations combine strong aurora probability with dramatic landscape foregrounds: Lofoten's reflective fjords, Abisko's mountain backdrop, and Ilulissat's iceberg-filled bay. A mirrorless or DSLR camera with a wide-angle f/1.8–2.8 lens will deliver the best results. In Norway, the activity is typically best experienced during September to March — when conditions align perfectly with the country's unique polar landscape.
Top 11 Spots for Northern Lights Photography in Norway
Svalbard earns one of the planet's highest aurora scores and is particularly noted for: Bucket-list adventurers wanting the ultimate Arctic experience with maximum aurora intensity. An excellent base for northern lights photography with well-established local operators.
Alta earns one of the planet's highest aurora scores and is particularly noted for: Clear-sky aurora chasers who want maximum viewing nights and lower prices than Tromsø. An excellent base for northern lights photography with well-established local operators.
Hammerfest earns one of the planet's highest aurora scores and is particularly noted for: Curious travellers who want genuine Arctic town character and a quirky Polar Bear Society membership. An excellent base for northern lights photography with well-established local operators.
Nordkapp earns one of the planet's highest aurora scores and is particularly noted for: Bucket-list travellers wanting to stand at the tip of mainland Europe under the aurora or midnight sun. An excellent base for northern lights photography with well-established local operators.
Tromsø earns one of the planet's highest aurora scores and is particularly noted for: First-time aurora hunters wanting easy access, city comforts, and world-class guiding. An excellent base for northern lights photography with well-established local operators.
Vardø earns one of the planet's highest aurora scores and is particularly noted for: Off-the-beaten-path explorers seeking powerful art, history, and authentic Arctic remoteness. An excellent base for northern lights photography with well-established local operators.
Lofoten Islands earns an aurora score of 8/10 and is particularly noted for: Aurora photographers seeking the world's most dramatic reflections and landscapes. An excellent base for northern lights photography with well-established local operators.
Lyngen earns an aurora score of 8/10 and is particularly noted for: Ski mountaineers, photographers, and aurora chasers seeking dramatic scenery without the crowds. An excellent base for northern lights photography with well-established local operators.
Narvik earns an aurora score of 8/10 and is particularly noted for: History enthusiasts and skiers who want genuine Arctic atmosphere without the tourist crowds. An excellent base for northern lights photography with well-established local operators.
Senja Island earns an aurora score of 8/10 and is particularly noted for: Adventurous travellers who want Lofoten-quality scenery without the crowds. An excellent base for northern lights photography with well-established local operators.
Bodø earns an aurora score of 7/10 and is particularly noted for: Budget-conscious travellers using Bodø as an Aurora and Lofoten base. An excellent base for northern lights photography with well-established local operators.
Practical Tips for Northern Lights Photography in Norway
- 1Book northern lights photography tours at least 4–8 weeks ahead during peak season — popular operators sell out fast.
- 2Wear moisture-wicking base layers, a mid-layer fleece, and a wind/waterproof outer shell. Temperature extremes are common in Norway.
- 3Most reputable operators include transport from the nearest town. Confirm pickup arrangements when booking.
- 4Travel insurance that covers outdoor activities and extreme weather cancellations is strongly recommended.
- 5Shoulder-season visits (start/end of September to March) often offer the best combination of conditions and availability.