Excellent
Northern Lights in January
Aurora Viewing in January
January is one of the best months to see the northern lights, offering excellent conditions across all major aurora destinations. With up to 24 hours of darkness in northern Norway and clear, cold skies, your chances of witnessing spectacular aurora displays are at their highest.
Darkness Hours by Location
| Location | Dark Hours | Best Viewing Window |
|---|---|---|
| Tromso, Norway | 24h | 6 PM - 6 AM |
| Reykjavik, Iceland | 19h | 8 PM - 4 AM |
| Fairbanks, Alaska | 18h | 8 PM - 4 AM |
| Rovaniemi, Finland | 22h | 6 PM - 6 AM |
Best Destinations in January
Weather Conditions
Average Temperature
Tromso -4C
Reykjavik 0C
Fairbanks -23C
Rovaniemi -11C
What to Expect
January brings cold temperatures across aurora destinations, averaging -11C in Finnish Lapland. Snow is common, creating beautiful backdrops for aurora photography. Pack warm, layered clothing.
What to Pack
- Warm winter jacket with hood
- Thermal base layers
- Insulated waterproof boots
- Warm hat and gloves
- Hand warmers recommended
- Scarf or neck gaiter
- Layered clothing for variable conditions
FAQ about Aurora in January
Yes! January is rated "Excellent" for aurora viewing with a score of 5/5. Long dark nights (up to 24 hours in Tromso) provide excellent opportunities. The cold, clear Arctic skies during this period often offer ideal viewing conditions.
Top destinations for January include Norway, Finland, Sweden. These locations offer optimal conditions with long dark nights, good accessibility, and reliable aurora activity. Our app provides real-time forecasts for all these destinations.
Temperatures in January vary by location: Tromso averages -4C, Reykjavik 0C, Fairbanks -23C, and Rovaniemi -11C. Proper cold-weather gear is essential for comfortable aurora watching sessions that can last several hours.
Solar Maximum 2025-2026
Get aurora alerts for your January trip
We're entering the most active period for northern lights in over a decade. Don't miss this rare opportunity.