See the northern lights in March

Think ‘spring’ and chances are you’ll imagine a hint of green growing on the trees, snowdrops, crocuses and daffodils poking up through the ground, gambolling lambs… but maybe not the northern lights. However, early spring is a great time to see the aurora borealis offering lengthening hours of daylight and milder temperatures – great for exploring – with arrival of the vernal, or spring equinox.

The Spring Equinox

Although it’s still somewhat of a mystery to scientists, the period around the spring (or ‘vernal’) equinox is often considered the real peak of annual northern lights activity. Although there is never any certainty of seeing the aurora, traditionally, auroral activity is strong in the weeks around an equinox. The spring equinox occurs on 19-21 March each year and offers great potential to witness the ethereal northern lights.

Why should I travel to see the Northern Lights in March?

Whether you’re up in Swedish Lapland staying in Jukkasjarvi at the Icehotel, visiting the Aurora Sky Station at Abisko or watching orca in Iceland – things are starting to warm up in March.

As well as increasingly mild average temperatures, the ‘Kaamos’ (polar night) is over and the regions have longer hours of daylight. More light means more time to take part in the many activities offered in these northern regions.

What can I do during the daytime?

While you’re waiting for night to fall, and the chance to hunt the aurora, there are a host of things you can try.

In Scandinavia, learn to mush your own team of huskies on a wilderness adventure, go snowmobiling, join a horseback safari to search for native reindeer and moose – there are plenty of options to fill the daylight hours!

In Iceland combine your search for the aurora with a plethora of natural wonders. Explore craggy volcanic landscapes, hike on glaciers, visit frozen waterfalls, watch pods of orca cavort in sheltered fjords, or relax in natural thermal hot springs?