Is it possible to see the Northern Lights In Estonia? Yes, you can plan your trip to Northern Lights Estonia.
If you want to increase your chances of viewing dancing lights, then visiting above the Arctic Circle finds a great idea.This could be in the north Scandinavian countries, Northern Russia, Iceland, northern Canada, Alaska, or Greenland. Visiting Estonia during the winter months is the best time! So let’s start your journey with the most basic information what are Northern lights and how they occur?
Why Do the Northern Lights Appear?
Let’s start with the origin. Auroras Borealis are brilliant ribbons of light that weaves across the earth’s northern or southern hemisphere. These lights happen because magnetic storms triggered by solar activity collide with the earth’s upper layer. When these particles react with Earth’s magnetosphere they create these magical lights.
What is The Best Time to Witness Northern Lights Estonia?
The next question while planning your trip is When to see the northern lights in Estonia? Below we have mentioned the best month to visit Estonia for northern lights:
- The best time to visit Estonia for northern lights is between November to March.
- Night time is the perfect time- especially between 8 pm and 1 am.
- There should be no light pollution. That’s why you should avoid large cities. The full moon is a problem too.
- Go to sea to see the view clearly, or from any greater height in respect of altitude.
- Concerning the weather, you need a clear sky, so the clouds will spoil the sight for you, which would be a pity.
- You’ll also need to get warm and not lose your patience so you might return home before seeing anything because the cold has frozen your purple limbs. Wear thermal tops and tights, a thick jumper, your best coat, your hat and gloves.
Top 5 Places In Estonia To Witness Aurora
You must know the top destination in Estonia so that you don’t miss the best experience to witness dancing lights. Here are the top 5 places to view the northern lights Estonia.
1) Saadjärv
Residents who travel to Estonia in search of Aurora frequently recommend Saadjärv, which is located in Tartu County. Saadjärv is located north of Tartu in central Estonia. From Saadjärv you will be located out in the forested interior of Estonia where the skies are dark and the aurora dance in the northern sky.
2) Saaremaa
Saaremaa is geographically the opposite of Saadjärv: this island uses the surrounding waterways to cut down on light pollution. Take a ferry and car to reach it off the west coast of Estonia, there are a few small communities around which you can base yourself for an aurora-chasing trip.
3) Paljassaare
Many are interested in northern lights viewing prospects near capital cities in each European country; after all, that is typically the nearest place you will fly into if you are planning a trip. The nearest aurora viewing spot to find close to the Estonian capital of Tallinn is Paljassaare.
4) Viimsi
Off in the northeast of the capital city, Viimsi is a peninsula near Tallinn. It contains several protected areas, such as Mäealuse MKA and Krillimäe MKA. There are many pockets of dark sky, so take some time to spend an evening here.
5) Lahemaa National Park
According to local recommendations, a good place to stay to see the northern lights is Lahemaa National Park. This big national park on the northern coast of Estonia features several peninsulas jutting out into the Gulf of Finland and offers good views of the sky. If you plan to make a road trip to this region, it’s possible to stay overnight in small towns while exploring the region.
Things To Remember!
- Sometimes you can’t see the Northern Lights with the naked eye but a good camera can show them. Light pollution and clouds are your worst enemies.
- Check the aurora forecast to know whether the northern lights will be visible in the sky near you.
- Check local weather forecasts before heading out. Clouds, precipitation, and even a full Moon give relatively poor viewing night.
- Look everywhere: an aurora can appear anywhere in the sky.
- Check the position of the aurora at the exact time. Bundle up, by the way- it gets colder at night!
- Don’t forget to bring your camera if you would like to capture a photograph of the aurora.
FAQs
Can the Northern Lights be seen in Estonia?
Yes, you can witness these magical lights in Estonia.
What is the best time of year to see the Northern Lights Estonia?
The best time to see Northern Lights in Estonia is somewhere between late September and late March when the nights are longer and darker.
Which parts of Estonia are best for Northern Lights viewing?
Places like Saadjärv, Saaremaa, Lahemaa National Park, and Viimsi are the best places in Estonia to witness northern lights.
Why do the Northern Lights appear to dance?
Due to the interaction of charged particles from the sun and the earth’s atmosphere here, these lights seem to be dancing.