Chasing the Aurora: Hunting Northern Lights Around Murmansk

For many travelers, Murmansk means one thing above all: the northern lights. Sitting comfortably above the Arctic Circle yet reachable by an overnight train or a short flight from Moscow and St. Petersburg, it is the easiest place in Russia to chase the aurora. But the lights are shy and reward planning, so here is an honest, practical look at how to improve your chances. The images here show the regions aurora and Arctic landscapes.

Northern lights over the Arctic landscape near Murmansk

When to Come

The aurora season runs roughly from late August to early April, when the nights are dark enough. The heart of winter, from December to February, offers the longest darkness, including the polar night when the sun never fully rises, but also the harshest cold. Many guides favour the shoulder months of September and March, which pair good darkness with slightly milder weather and often clearer skies. Plan at least three or four nights to beat the odds of cloud.

Getting Away From the City Lights

You will rarely see a strong aurora from central Murmansk itself; light pollution and weather get in the way. The trick is to head out of town, and a whole local industry of aurora-hunting tours exists to do exactly that, driving you to dark spots in the surrounding tundra and chasing clear patches of sky in real time. Going with an experienced local driver who watches the forecasts is the single best thing you can do for your chances.

Dressing for the Wait and Managing Expectations

Aurora hunting means standing still outdoors in deep cold for hours, so serious layers, insulated boots and hand warmers are essential. Be realistic, too: the lights are a natural phenomenon, never guaranteed, and some nights deliver only a faint green glow rather than the dancing curtains of the postcards. Treat any strong display as a gift, enjoy the silence and the stars regardless, and you will not leave disappointed.

Murmansk is Russia front-row seat for the northern lights, but the aurora rewards patience, dark skies and a few nights in hand. Book a local hunting tour, dress for the Arctic, and give yourself the time to be lucky.