What is aurora borealis - northern lights?

Aurora borealis is a natural light display in the sky particularly in the high latitude (Arctic and Antarctic) regions, caused by the collision of energetic charged particles with atoms in the high altitude atmosphere (thermosphere). In northern latitudes, the effect is known as the aurora borealis (or the northern lights), named after the Roman goddess of dawn, Aurora, and the Greek name for the north wind, Borealis, by Pierre Gassendi in 1621. Auroras seen near the magnetic pole may be high overhead, but from farther away, they illuminate the northern horizon as a greenish glow or sometimes a faint red, as if the Sun were rising from an unusual direction.

Discrete aurora often display magnetic field lines or curtain-like structures, and can change within seconds or glow unchanging for hours, most often in fluorescent green. The aurora borealis most often occurs near the equinoxes. The northern lights have had a number of names throughout history. The Cree call this phenomenon the “Dance of the Spirits”. In Europe, in the Middle Ages, the auroras were commonly believed as a sign from God.

When is the best time to see northern lights - aurora borealis?

Yellowknife is one of the best places to see northern lights (aurora borealis) from mid of August until end of April to experience ultimate aurora borealis thrill. Summer time isn't a good time to see aurora borealis in Yellowknife due to 24 hours day light pollution from the sun that makes it difficult to see aurora activity. Yellowknife nights return around mid August making it ideal conditions to see northern lights activity.

What if I don't get to see northern lights on tour, do i get refund?

We hope all clients get to experience this natural phenomenon; however, since aurora is a natural occurrence that can't be guaranteed for increased chances to see aurora we recommend to book at least 3 nights. Statistics for Yellowknife have proven that out of three nights your chances of seeing aurora is increased by over 90% chances. Meaning that at least one night of 3 nights you can get to experience this natural phenomenon.

What is the difference between aurora hunting and viewing?

Aurora viewing is held at single place for the entire tour the viewing places ranges from cabin, lodge or tee-pee tents. On aurora hunting tour you visit several viewing places that includes, Territorial parks, lakes, ice roads and secluded wilderness per night and night itinerary is determined by driver/guide or customized to clients satisfaction.

Is the aurora forecast accurate?

First we have to understand how aurora forecast works. Aurora forecast is scientific measurement in Kp index system for aurora strength. It goes from 0 to 9, 0 being very weak and 9 being a major geomagnetic storm with strong aurora. So when you're looking at the aurora forecast page, you want to see high Kp numbers. The higher the better. Anything above Kp4 is classed as a geomagnetic storm. Aurora forecast will only give you guidance of aurora activity. To get the most accurate reading in addition to forecast reading, several factors have to be considered that includes in simple weather and clouds movement. A good aurora hunter like us will be able to compute all that information for you for better aurora prediction on the tour.

Where do you take me for aurora tours?

Our aurora hunting tours takes you multiple viewing places, so you don't have to worry about waiting for aurora at one place through out your itinerary.

How do I book aurora tours and day tours?

To book any of our tours simply book online from our website, by phone, WeChat, WhatsApp, Facebook and through email booking@arctictourscanada.ca. Feel free to contact us for any booking assistance.