The Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) in Greenland

In the sky over Greenland you can sometimes see a very special phenomenon, the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). The beautiful flickering curtains of green, yellow, red and white light swirl and dazzle. You can't help but be overwhelmed by the fleeting experience when the Northern Lights dance in the sky.

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What are Northern Lights? The Scientific Explanation

In Latin the Northern Lights are called "Aurora Borealis". The Northern Lights occur when the Sun’s electrically charged particles collide with molecules and atoms in the Earth’s atmosphere. This meeting results in the incredible phenomenon in which curtains of different colours flutter across the sky.

Attracted to the magnetic poles, the particles produce dazzling curtains of Auroral light when they collide with oxygen and nitrogen atoms:

  • North Pole = Northern Lights / Aurora Borealis
  • South Pole = Southern Lights / Aurora Australis
It is strongest and most frequent in connection with magnetic storms on the Sun.

It takes patience to hunt for Northern Lights, as clear skies are not always enough. There are many variables and the strength also depends on solar storms and other factors.

Myths and Superstitions

It’s no wonder there are so many myths and legends associated with this magical phenomenon. Greenlandic children are told, that when they see the Northern Lights, it’s the spirits of their ancestors kicking a walrus skull across the sky in a game similar to football. Children are also told that if they whistle or clap their hands, it will disturb the spirits and the children might not go to heaven.

Northern Lights Tours in Greenland

Northern lights tours in Greenland offer an unforgettable Arctic adventure, taking you far from city lights for the best aurora viewing. You can join guided backcountry tours to remote lodges and areas, where the skies are darkest. For added excitement, try snowmobiling under the stars or embark on a northern lights photography tour, capturing the northern lights in breathtaking landscapes.

Joining a tour is a great idea because experienced guides know the best locations and conditions for aurora sightings, provide local insights, and ensure your safety in Greenland’s remote wilderness—making your adventure both memorable and worry-free.

See our suggested travel packages with northern lights included.

Best Time to See the Northern Lights in Greenland?

The Northern Lights occur year-round, but can only be seen in the dark months and when the sky is clear. The best period for viewing the Northern Lights is September to April, which is the time of the dark and beautiful polar nights. You’re most likely to see them around midnight.

During summer there is too much light in the sky for the phenomenon to be visible.

Also see our best tips for when to visit Greenland.

Best Places to See the Northern Lights in Greenland?

You can observe the Northern Lights throughout Greenland, but the further north you travel, the better. Here are some of the places in Greenland, where you can experience the northern lights:

Kangerlussuaq

Kangerlussuaq is one of the best places in the world to see them due to relatively stable weather and clear skies. Many visitors to Greenland travel via Kangerlussuaq, making it a great opportunity to join a Northern Lights spotting excursion. Near Kangerlussuaq, the American scientific station "Kellyville" researches the Northern Lights.

Ilulissat and the Disko Bay

The aurora can also be seen in Ilulissat and the Disko Bay area during winter, where long, dark nights provide excellent viewing conditions. For a true Arctic adventure, stay at remote lodges such as Aurora Lodge, Glacier Lodge Eqi, or Igloo Lodge Greenland. These unique accommodations near Disko Bay offer cozy comfort, minimal light pollution, and exceptional winter views of the northern lights.

Aurora Lodge

Nuuk

If you wish to visit Greenland's Capital, Nuuk, there are also opportunities to witness the northern lights here. During winter, the Arctic nights provide a dramatic backdrop for the aurora, especially when you venture just outside the city limits to escape light pollution. In Nuuk, you can combine urban culture with the aurora borealis.

As mentioned, the Northern Lights are only visible on dark, clear evenings, so it’s highly recommended to avoid any artificial light pollution. If you head outside town, the northern lights will appear even more vivid against the dark sky.

How to take photos of Northern Lights?

Who doesn't want to capture this incredible natural phenomenon?

With a little preparation and the right camera settings, you can return from your Arctic adventure in Greenland with stunning photos of the aurora dancing across the sky.

The best Northern Lights photos are taken with long exposure times and high ISO settings. This helps bring out more vivid colours and details, since your camera sensor can "see" more light and contrast than the human eye at night.

Just as important: a sturdy tripod is essential to avoid camera shake during long exposures.

In Greenland, the aurora often appears from late evening to early morning, especially between 9 PM and 2 AM, on clear nights from September to April. Check the aurora forecast and be patient—it’s worth the wait.

A step-by-step guide to photograph the Northern Lights

1. Get the Right Gear

Bring a DSLR or mirrorless camera, a tripod, and a wide-angle lens with a wide aperture (f/2.8 or lower is ideal). A remote shutter or using the timer function also helps prevent blur.

2. Dress for Arctic Conditions

You'll be standing still outside, sometimes for long periods. Dress in layers, wear insulated boots, and bring gloves that allow camera control. Check our packing list for winter in Greenland.

3. Choose a Dark Location

Find a spot away from artificial lights—Greenland has very little light pollution, but staying outside towns and villages helps. Look for a clear northern horizon.

4. Set Up and Focus

Mount your camera on the tripod and point it north. Switch your lens to manual focus, and focus on a bright star or distant light using Live View until it’s sharp.

5. Use the Right Camera Settings

Start with these base settings and adjust as needed:

  • Mode: Manual (M)
  • ISO: 1600–3200
  • Aperture: f/2.8
  • Shutter Speed: 5–15 seconds
  • White Balance: Auto or around 3500K
6. Take Test Shots

Review each shot to see if it’s too dark or too bright. If the aurora is very active, you might need a shorter exposure (3–5 seconds) to avoid blur.

7. Use a Remote or Timer

Avoid touching the camera during the shot. Use a remote control or a 2-second timer to reduce vibration.

8. Keep Shooting and Experimenting

The aurora constantly changes shape and intensity. Take multiple shots with different compositions—include a mountain, iceberg, or snow-covered hut for a stunning Greenlandic foreground.

Nice to Know

Can you see the northern lights in Greenland?

Yes, you can see the northern lights in Greenland. This Arctic destination is perfect for an unforgettable adventure, with spectacular aurora displays lighting up the sky. Winter nights in places like Disko Bay and Kangerlussuaq in Central Greenland offer some of the world’s best opportunities to experience the magic of the northern lights.

When can you see the northern lights in Greenland?

The northern lights are most visible in Greenland during winter, from late September to early April. During these long Arctic nights, the sky is dark enough for the aurora to shine brightly. For the best northern ligths adventure, visit Greenland during this period.

Where to stay in Greenland to see the northern lights?

For a true Arctic adventure, stay at remote lodges such as Aurora Lodge Ilulissat, Glacier Lodge Eqi, or Igloo Lodge Greenland. These unique accommodations near Disko Bay offer cozy comfort, minimal light pollution, and exceptional winter views of the northern lights.

Travel Packages with good chances to see Northern Lights