Planning a northern lights trip in March 2019 means targeting regions under clear, dark skies during peak geomagnetic activity. This overview highlights reliable places where travelers and photographers could expect strong aurora displays that month.
Below is a quick reference summarizing prime regions, typical activity levels, darkness hours, cloud risk, and transport accessibility for chasing the northern lights in March 2019.
| Region | Aurora Activity Level | Night Hours | Typical Cloud Cover | Easy Access |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tromsø, Norway | High | 20+ hours | Moderate | Easy |
| Abisko, Sweden | High | 19 hours | Low | Moderate |
| Rovaniemi, Finland | High | 18 hours | Moderate | Easy |
| Fairbanks, Alaska | Moderate to High | 12 hours | Low to Moderate | Moderate |
| Yellowknife, Canada | Moderate to High | 12 hours | Moderate | Moderate |
Best Locations for Northern Lights in March 2019
March offers a balance between long nights and improving weather stability, making it one of the strongest months for aurora sightings. Clear cold air and geomagnetic activity frequently combine for vivid displays.
Tromsø, Norway
Tromsø sits under the auroral oval and provides reliable infrastructure, dark skies, and frequent clear intervals. Guided tours and self-drive options make it straightforward to chase sudden activity.
Abisko, Sweden
The Abisko area benefits of a rain shadow effect, often yielding clearer skies than surrounding regions. The Aurora Sky Station and glass igloos give comfortable viewing options during late season cold snaps.
Rovaniemi, Finland
Rovaniemi combines easy airport access with numerous glass igloos and resorts designed around aurora watching. Snowy landscapes and organized tours help maintain a high chance of sightings in March.
Geomagnetic Forecast and Solar Activity in March 2019
During March 2019, recurring high-speed streams from coronal holes and several moderate solar flares supported ongoing geomagnetic disturbance. These conditions favored nightly auroral activity in high-latitude zones.
Regions located beneath the auroral oval, such as northern Scandinavia and high Canada, experienced frequent active and very active intervals predicted by NOAA and regional geomagnetic services.
Travelers checking daily space weather forecasts had better chances of aligning clear-sky nights with predicted peaks, maximizing time spent outdoors under dark conditions.
Photography and Equipment Tips for March
Cold March nights demand camera gear that performs reliably at subzero temperatures and low light levels. Strong aurora activity can vary quickly, so readiness matters.
- Use fast wide-angle lenses (f/2.8 or faster) to capture faint auroral curtains.
- Set high ISO values between 1600 and 6400, adjusting as noise increases.
- Shoot in raw format for flexible post-processing in variable light.
- Carry spare batteries and keep them insulated in inner pockets.
- Use sturdy tripods and remote shutters to avoid motion blur during long exposures.
Where to Stay and Transport Options
Booking accommodations close to dark zones, away from town lights, improves viewing consistency while keeping travel times manageable. March transport varies by region.
Transport and Lodging
In Norway and Sweden, trains, buses, and flights connect efficiently to hub cities like Tromsø and Kiruna. In Finland and northern Canada, road access and small-plane flights often reach remote lodges that provide aurora wake-up calls.
Planning Ahead for Future Aurora Trips
Understanding seasonal patterns and local weather trends helps secure flexible bookings and adjust travel dates toward peak solar activity with minimal disruption.
- Monitor space weather forecasts a few days before and during your trip.
- Choose regions with low cloud cover records for your target dates.
- Reserve flexible accommodations and transport to respond to forecast changes.
- Pack layers, spare batteries, and sturdy camera gear for subzero conditions.
- Prioritize dark-sky locations away from urban light pollution.
FAQ
Reader questions
What are the best months near March 2019 for aurora viewing in Scandinavia?
Late winter months from late February through March typically offer the best balance of darkness, clear air, and geomagnetic activity in Scandinavia.
Do I need a guided tour to see the northern lights in March 2019?
Guided tours are helpful for forecasting, transport, and photography support, but clear local roads and rental cars also allow independent aurora chasing.
How cold should I expect it to be while waiting for the aurora in March 2019?
Temperatures commonly range from below freezing to around −10°C, so layered clothing, insulated boots, and hand warmers are essential for long outdoor waits.
Can I see the northern lights from cities if I go out in March 2019?
City lights usually obscure faint auroral bands; traveling at least 50 to 100 kilometers away from urban centers dramatically improves visibility.