The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, are a breathtaking natural phenomenon that draws visitors from all around the world. If you’ve been dreaming of witnessing this magical display, especially in Canada, where some of the best views can be found, you’re in for an unforgettable experience. However, to make the most of your Aurora lights tour, a bit of preparation and knowledge goes a long way. This beginner’s guide will walk you through the top 5 tips to ensure your Aurora lights experience is everything you’ve imagined and more.
1. Choosing the Right Location: Why Yellowknife Stands Out
The Best Place for Aurora Sightseeing
When planning your Aurora lights tour, the location is crucial. While the Northern Lights can be seen in various places around the world, some locations offer better viewing conditions than others. Yellowknife, located in Canada’s Northwest Territories, is renowned as one of the top spots for Aurora viewing in Canada. The city boasts clear skies and minimal light pollution, providing optimal conditions for witnessing the lights. Additionally, the latitude of Yellowknife places it directly under the Aurora Oval, a region where the lights are most frequent and intense. By choosing Yellowknife for your Aurora lights in Yellowknife tour, you are significantly increasing your chances of seeing a spectacular display.
2. Timing is Everything: Best Time to See the Aurora
Plan Your Trip During Peak Viewing Times
While the Northern Lights can occur throughout the year, they are most visible during certain times. The best time for Aurora sightseeing is during the winter months, from late August to April, when the nights are longest and the skies are darkest. Within this period, aim for the new moon phase when the sky is at its darkest. This will allow the Aurora lights to shine brightly without competing with the moonlight. To further increase your chances of a successful sighting, consider spending a few nights in Yellowknife, as the Northern Lights don’t always appear every night.
3. Dress Warmly: Prepare for Cold Weather Conditions
Stay Comfortable During Your Aurora Lights Tour
Aurora viewing in Canada, particularly in the far north, means you’ll be spending long hours outdoors in freezing temperatures. It’s essential to dress warmly and in layers to stay comfortable. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat off your skin, add insulating layers like wool or down, and finish with a windproof and waterproof outer layer. Don’t forget to wear warm boots, thick socks, gloves, and a hat. Investing in quality winter gear will make your Aurora lights in Yellowknife tour more enjoyable, allowing you to focus on the beauty of the lights rather than the cold.
4. Bring the Right Equipment: Capture the Moment Perfectly
How to Photograph the Aurora Borealis
One of the best parts of an Aurora lights tour is capturing the moment on camera to relive the experience and share it with others. However, photographing the Northern Lights can be challenging without the right equipment and knowledge. A camera with manual settings, a tripod, and a wide-angle lens are essential for Aurora photography. Set your camera to a long exposure time (between 5-25 seconds) and adjust the ISO to a higher setting (around 800-3200) to capture the lights in all their glory. Additionally, consider bringing extra batteries, as the cold can drain them quickly. Practice using your camera settings before your trip so you can quickly adapt to the conditions during the Aurora lights in Yellowknife tour.
5. Stay Patient and Flexible: Nature Works on Its Schedule
Maximizing Your Chances of Seeing the Northern Lights
While the Aurora Borealis is a stunning natural wonder, it doesn’t appear on demand. Staying patient and flexible with your plans is key to having a successful Aurora viewing experience. Weather conditions and solar activity can affect your chances of seeing the lights, so be prepared for possible delays or cancellations. To increase your chances, book your Aurora lights tour with a reputable company like Yellowknife Tours Ltd, which has knowledgeable guides who can take you to the best viewing spots and offer real-time updates on Aurora activity. Remember, the longer you stay in Yellowknife, the better your chances of catching a glimpse of the lights. Keep a positive mindset, and be ready to enjoy the experience whenever the lights decide to appear.
6. Engage in Other Activities: Make the Most of Your Trip
Enjoy Yellowknife Beyond the Northern Lights
While the Aurora lights may be the highlight of your trip, Yellowknife has plenty to offer beyond Aurora sightseeing. During the day, explore the city’s rich cultural history, visit local museums, or take part in winter activities such as dog sledding or ice fishing. Engaging in other activities will make your trip to Yellowknife more memorable and ensure you have a fantastic experience, even if the Aurora is elusive. Remember to check with your Aurora lights tour provider about any additional excursions they may offer.
Conclusion
Witnessing the Aurora Borealis is a bucket-list experience that requires some planning and preparation. By choosing the right location, timing your trip well, dressing appropriately, bringing the right equipment, staying patient, and engaging in other activities, you can ensure that your Aurora lights tour is an unforgettable adventure. For those looking to maximize their chances of seeing the Northern Lights, consider booking with Yellowknife Tours Ltd. To start planning your trip, contact them at (867) 873-4600. Happy Aurora viewing!
