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LEVI FINLAND NORTHERN LIGHTS: WHEN, WHERE & HOW TO SEE THEM THIS WINTER!

WANT TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS IN LEVI FINLAND THIS WINTER?


Check out our blog post below to discover all the ways to maximise your chance to see the northern lights in Levi β€” a magical village in Finnish Lapland β€” this Winter!

Includes: Best time and places to see the Levi Finland northern lights, best tours and activities, where to stay in Levi to see Northern Lights without a tour, Winter packing list and more!


DON’T HAVE TIME TO READ THE FULL ARTICLE?
No problem! Check out our quick key takeaways:


Best time to see Northern Lights in Levi
⭐ Early September to late March.

Best guided Levi Finland Northern Lights tours
⭐ Levi Northern Lights By Snowmobile With BBQ
⭐ Northern Lights Hunting Photography Tour in Levi

Best places to stay in Levi to see Northern Lights
⭐ Levin Iglut – Golden Crown
⭐ Levi OloResort
⭐ Northern Lights Village Levi


LEVI FINLAND NORTHERN LIGHTS:
AN INTRODUCTION



Levi, (pronounced “lev-ee”) we were surprised to discover is not a town in Finland at all, it is the name of Finland’s biggest ski resort. More specifically, it is located in the KittilΓ€ municipality of northern Finland, snuggled in the heart of Finnish Lapland.

It is Levi’s (and surrounding KittilΓ€ municipality’s) remote location, 170km north of the Arctic Circle that really places it on the map. Sat perfectly in what is known as the “Auroral Oval”, this makes it one of the best destinations in the World to see the Northern Lights!

Plus – with the Solar Cycle set to burst with the strongest activity of Northern Lights displays for 11 years these next few Winters, there has never been a better time to go out and see the Aurora in Levi!

Join us below as we explain everything you need to know about seeing the Northern Lights in Levi this coming Winter:

NORTHERN LIGHTS IN LEVI: BEST TIME OF YEAR


The best time of year to see the Northern Lights in Levi is during its darker Winter months, anytime from mid-August to mid-April, though it is recommended to visit from early September into late March just to make sure. After all, the later in Winter you visit, the length of darkness available increases – as do your chances!

Deep in the Winter months, especially around December and January, is when the probability to see the Levi Finland northern lights increases. However, a success rate each night depends on the unique solar conditions of each evening.

The ideal conditions are a cold, clear and cloudless night with strong forecasted solar activity.

A photo showing the incredible Aurora Borealis you can spot with the relentless and top quality Rovaniemi Northern Lights tour with Nordic Odyssey! This is a real and honest glowing review for when we personally took this tour when visiting Rovaniemi!

NORTHERN LIGHTS IN LEVI: BEST TIME OF DAY


When the Aurora forecast is just right, the renowned best time of day during Levi’s Winter months to see the Northern Lights is between 9pm to 1am, however it is possible to see them at any point during the darkness of night.

It is important to note that the most intense solar bursts usually last around 10 minutes, so be sure to keep a watchful eye!

LEVI NORTHERN LIGHTS TOURS


While it is not impossible, it is unusual to see clear Northern light displays directly from the centre of Levi village. This is due to a lot of light pollution, and this constant visual distraction makes it very hard to see the Aurora from within the complex itself.

However! Luckily there are a multitude of Levi Northern lights tours on offer, with dedicated professional guides taking you away from the bright lights to the best Aurora spotting destinations.

Through extensive research, we have found two of the most highly rated Levi Northern Lights tours. Whether you want to experience a comfortable Northern Lights minibus safari, or want to race under the Aurora in a snowmobile – each tour listed below is highly rated by previous guests:

1. Levi Northern Lights By Snowmobile With BBQ

Tour operator: Arctic Circle Snowmobile Park.

Top highlights: Head out on 2 person snowmobiles and soar across the magical Finnish wilderness in search of the dancing Aurora. One found, watch in awe as you warm up and eat delicious BBQ sausages and juice by a campfire. All arm thermal clothes included, included shoes, gloves, helmets, balaclavas and thermal socks. 

Departure point: Head directly to the meeting point: Levintie 1585, 99130 KittilΓ€, Finland, or request hotel pick-up and drop off directly when booking.

Duration: Approx. 3 hours. Arrive 30 minutes prior to tour starting time.

Price: From Β£129 GBP / $165 USD per adult.

Tour type: Medium group, up to 20 people maximum!

Exclusions: Not recommended for pregnant travellers, travellers with heart problems or children under 2 years old.

 

2. Northern Lights Hunting Photography Tour in Levi

Tour operator: Beyond Arctic.

Top highlights: Head out with your small group and knowledgable guide in a comfortable minivan in search of the dazzling Aurora! Beyond Arctic specialise in Aurora photography, sending 5-15 professional photos of a lifetime of each tour, plus lend you apparatus (such as tripod mounts for cameras / phones) during the tour to help you capture your own! Soothing hot drinks, snacks, BBQ sausages and marshmallows over a campfire and headlamps are included too.

Departure point: Either meet at the front doors of the Zero Point building at Hissitie 8, 99130 Sirkka, Finland, or request a direct hotel pick-up.

Duration: Approx. 4 to 5 hours.

Price: From Β£117 GBP / $149 USD per adult.

Tour type: Very small group, up to 8 people maximum!

Exclusions: Minimum age is 10 years old.

 

WHERE TO STAY IN LEVI FOR THE NORTHERN LIGHTS


Of course, there is also the opportunity to see the Northern lights in and around Levi without a guided tour. How you ask?

By staying at an accommodation located just outside of Levi resort. So long as the conditions are right and the light pollution is minimised enough, this will increase your chances massively to also spot the Northern Lights every evening by yourself!

Following extensive research, we found three brilliant options for you to consider, a range of very different types of accommodation to suit your personal travel preferences. They also feature on our official Top 5 glass igloos in Levi list:

⭐ Levin Iglut – Golden Crown
our top pick!

⭐ Levi OloResort

⭐ Northern Lights Village Levi

See below for more super useful information and photographs on all three options to help you make your final decision!

Our top pick:
Levin Iglut – Golden Crown

The crème de la crème of glass igloos in Levi Finland has to be Levin Iglut Golden Crown complex! Pictured: The stylish interior of one of their glass superior igloos.
Pictured: The stylish interior of one of Levin Igluts glass superior igloos. All photography copyrights reserved by Β© Levin Iglut Golden Crown.

⭐ Rating:
9.1 / 10 Superb

πŸ“ Location:
15 minute drive from KittilΓ€ Airport (Levi’s main airport). Click here to see distance on Maps.

🏑 View On: Booking.com (flexible free cancellation option available)


First up is the crΓ¨me de la crΓ¨me of all glass igloos in Levi Finland – the luxurious 5* Levin Iglut Golden Crown! Snuggled upon the enchanting Utsuvaara Fell, its remote and peaceful location provides the most magical Finnish Lapland views.

Psst! Levin Iglut is also #1 on our Top 5 glass igloos in Levi list!

They have 3 types of stunning igloo hotels available, at different sizes and price ranges to suit all guests needs. The ‘smallest’ – though certainly still a good size – are the 15 Superior Igloos.

There are also 9 Prime Superior Igloos, which are the same size as the Superior Igloos at 23mΒ² but boast epic views across the valley, making them that extra bit more special.

Pictured: The stylish interior of the Levin Iglut Golden Crown complex! Pictured: The stylish interior of one of the glass superior igloo suites at Levin Iglut Golden Crown in Levi Finland.
Pictured: The stylish interior in the luxurious Suite Igloos, the largest igloo type at Levin Iglut Golden Crown in Levi, Finland.
All photography copyrights reserved by Β© Levin Iglut Golden Crown.

The most magical and largest igloo type they have at Levin Iglut are their Suite Igloos, built at a spacious 53mΒ². This igloo type in our opinion is the whole package, with interrupted sky and valley views plus a private outdoor terrace and jacuzzi.

All igloos here can accommodate two adults and up to 2 children under 13 years. In the Suite Igloos, children are included in the price, whereas are an additional cost in the Superior and Prime Superior Igloos.

A daily delicious breakfast buffet is included in the stay with every igloo, as is an exciting northern lights alarm service.

Pictured: A couple witnessing the northern lights from the comfort of their own bed in the stylish glass igloos at Levin Iglut resort, Levi.
Pictured: If they appear, you can clearly see the dazzling northern lights from the comfort of your own bed at Levin Iglut resort.
All photography copyrights reserved by Β© Levin Iglut Golden Crown.
Pictured: Exterior shot of a luxurious Suite Igloo, the largest igloo type at Levin Iglut Golden Crown in Levi, with comes with a private outdoor terrace and hot tub!
All photography copyrights reserved by Β© Levin Iglut Golden Crown.


Getting to Levin Iglut Golden Crown: From Levi’s main airport, KittilΓ€ International (KTT), the Levin Iglut Golden Crown Resort is just a 15 minute (14.5km) drive away, route linked here.

There are a number of ways get to Levin Iglut Golden Crown. First is to either drive your own car or hire a rental car and take advantage of their free on-site guest parking.

Secondly, Levin Iglut can arrange private transfers for all guests, either to/from the airport or to alternative destinations such as Levi Resort. Reservations should be made latest 3 days before arrival, simply e-mail them in advance at sales@leviniglut.fi.

During the high season, there are also public transfers available to and from Levi resort that work our slightly cheaper at €18 one way. These transfers leave Levin Iglut at 11am to drop off in Levi, and then pick-up is at 4pm from Levi back to the igloos.

The igloo is fancy and comfortable. Good location for seeing the aurora, can even take pictures of aurora inside the igloo. Especially good for people who don’t like to stay outdoor in cold weather. πŸ™‚

weiming, china, BOOKING.COM REVIEW

Levi OloResort


One of the most chique and modern glass igloo structures in Levi Finland has to be at Levi OloResort! (pictured)
Pictured: One of the most contemporary glass igloos in Levi you will find are these reflective, ultra modern apartment pods at Levi OloResort!
All photography copyrights reserved by Β© Levi OloResort.

⭐ Rating:
9.3 / 10 Superb

πŸ“ Location:
12 minute drive from KittilΓ€ Airport (Levi’s main airport). Click here to see distance on Maps.

🏑 View On: Booking.com (flexible free cancellation option available)


If you’re looking for an ultra-modern glass igloo, look no further than these cutting-edge apartments at Levi OloResort!

This accommodation is extremely new, boasting 16 luxurious glass suites, otherwise listed as One-Bedroom Apartments.

One of the most chique and modern glass igloo structures in Levi Finland has to be at Levi OloResort! (pictured)
Pictured: The ultra stylish interior of a One-Bedroom Apartment at Levi OloResort. All photography copyrights reserved by and kindly gifted for use by Β© Levi OloResort.

The apartment exterior oozes a sleek, contemporary design. Previous guests rave how warm the apartments stay, with large heated walls with a mirrored surface, reflecting the enchanting forest surroundings. The glass roofs are also heated to ensure maximum visibility of the night sky.

These extremely stylish apartments have 1 bedroom, a private bathroom with shower, a fully-equipped kitchen and a flat-screen TV with streaming services.

On-site, there is also a communal lounge and sauna complex.

Pictured: The one-way mirrored surface on a Levi OloResort One-Bedroom Apartment exterior facade.
All photography copyrights reserved by and kindly gifted for use by Β© Levi OloResort.
Photograph kindly provided for use and copyrighted by Levi OloResort.
Pictured: The private entrance to a One-Bedroom Apartment exterior facade at Levi OloResort.
All photography copyrights reserved by and kindly gifted for use by Β© Levi OloResort.


Getting to Levi OloResort: From Levi’s main airport, KittilΓ€ International (KTT), the Levi OloResort is just a 12 minute (12.5km) drive away, route linked here.

The easiest method to get to Levi OloResort is to drive your own car or hire a rental car and take advantage of their free on-site guest parking.

No car? Not to worry, Levi OloResort do offer a airport shuttle service for their guests, or you could also use a local taxi.

A very special and romantic getaway with gorgeous view of the woods. Room was very beautiful with tasteful design down to the smallest details, very compact yet still got everything you need. I was surprised to find almost every kinds of cooking items in the kitchenette, neatly tuck away, even a good coffee machine. It’s a 3 sided glass house so I was concerned at first if it can get too cold but the cabin was very warm due to a smart heating system. It’s not close to centre but taxi can be easily ordered so it won’t be a problem.

KHOA, VIETNAM, BOOKING.COM REVIEW

Psst! Check out our 5 days in Rovaniemi travel itinerary, the “official home of Santa Claus”, located just a 2 hour drive away from Levi!

Northern Lights Village Levi

A photo of the Northern Lights village Levi igloos, one of the best places to stay to see the Levi Finland northern lights without a guided tour!
Β© All photograph copyrights reserved by Northern Lights Village Levi.
A photo of the Northern Lights village Levi from above, one of the best places to stay to see the Levi Finland northern lights without a guided tour!
Β© All photograph copyrights reserved by Northern Lights Village Levi.

⭐ Rating:
9.2 / 10

πŸ“ Location:
Sirkka, Levi, Finland

🏑 View On: Booking.com

βœ… Highly rated 9.2/10 ‘Exceptional’.
βœ… Remote location 15 minutes from Levi.
βœ… Panoramic glass igloo structures to maximise Northern lights viewing at night.


Located just 15 minutes outside of Levi in the remote village of Sirkka, the “glass roofed resort” Northern Lights Village Levi offers a perfect location to spot the Northern lights in Winter! This is one of the most popular places to stay when visiting Levi.

All glass Aurora Cabins available are well-equipped, modern, include a large en-suite and boast a jaw-dropping, panoramic glass ceiling above the bed.

The glass roof is laser-heated (to melt any snow with a push of a button) and north facing. This means you will never miss a Northern Lights display – with the ability to watch the Aurora dance above you even when you are lying in bed!

Most bookings come with half-board (breakfast and dinner) included in the price! There are a number of epic Winter activities to enjoy during your stay, including snowmobiling, reindeer feeding, cross country skiing, snowshoeing and more.

A photo showing inside a Northern Lights village Levi igloo, one of the best places to stay to see the Levi Finland northern lights without a guided tour!
Β© All photograph copyrights reserved by Northern Lights Village Levi.

Getting to Northern Lights Village: Northern Lights Village Levi is located just a 29 minute (30km) drive away from KittilΓ€ International Airport (KTT), the main airport for Levi Finland.

To avoid constant high taxi fares, previous guests highly recommended to rent a car and utilise the free parking on-site at Northern Lights Village Levi, especially if you want to explore further than the resort during your stay.

Getting to Northern Lights Village from KittilΓ€ Airport:
Northern Lights Village Levi do provide an airport shuttle service at an additional cost of €20 per adult / €10 per child one way. Pre-arrange this with the resort directly after booking.

Getting to Levi from Northern Lights Village: Hotel guests can use the Northern Lights Village daily direct shuttle to Levi resort for just €5 per person one way, so €10 per person return. This requires pre-booking with Northern Lights Village beforehand.

If you wanted to arrange a private transfer to Levi centre instead, this would be €40 between 1-8 people on way, so €80 return.

Amazing experience of falling asleep under the stars and northern lights. Perfect place, perfect location … All lapland activities could be found there with the best price vs Levi village: reindeers feeding, ride on reindeers, husky ride, snowmobiles rides including kids version, walking & snowshoeing & cross-country skiing trails … sauna experience with hot bath under the stars. Possibility to half board and do not worry about dinner … Northern light alert sent to every room.

ANNA, FINLAND, BOOKING.COM REVIEWS

ADDITIONAL LEVI WINTER TOURS & ACTIVITIES


While spotting the Northern Lights is one of the main reasons to visit Levi, Finland in Winter, there are plenty of other things to do in and around Levi that will keep you entertained during the short daytime hours throughout your Winter stay:


ADDITIONAL WINTER DAY ACTIVITIES TO CONSIDER IN LEVI:

β€’ 2 Hours Snowmobile Safari (Daytime)

β€’ Ride up the idyllic Levi Fell by snowmobile.

β€’ Ice fishing on a frozen lake in Levi.

β€’ Visit the Spa Water World in Levi, located in the middle of the Fells. The spa offers something for everyone – it’s like an indoor water park! Water slides, water creatures, jacuzzis, hot tubs, saunas. From €14 for 2 hours.

ADDITIONAL WINTER DAY ACTIVITIES TO CONSIDER OUTSIDE OF LEVI:

β€’ Guided day tour of the Lapland Hotels SnowVillage, or option to book an overnight stay in a Snow Suite here. Located between Levi and YllΓ€s.


LEVI FINLAND WINTER CLIMATE


September initiates the seasonal shift, with temperatures ranging from 30Β°F to 46Β°F (-1Β°C to 8Β°C). As autumn transitions to winter, October witnesses temperatures dropping to 19Β°F to 35Β°F (-7Β°C to 2Β°C), and by November, snowfall becomes more pronounced, transforming Levi into a winter wonderland.

December, the heart of winter, experiences temperatures ranging from -11Β°F to 14Β°F (-24Β°C to -10Β°C), creating the perfect backdrop for witnessing the mesmerising Northern Lights.

January and February maintain the winter chill, with temperatures averaging around -20Β°F to 7Β°F (-29Β°C to -14Β°C).

March marks the gradual transition to spring, with temperatures rising slightly to -12Β°F to 18Β°F (-24Β°C to -8Β°C) and the promise of longer daylight hours.

LEVI FINLAND WINTER PACKING LIST

GREAT THINGS TO BRING & WEAR FOR SEEING THE NORTHERN LIGHTS OUTSIDE IN KIRUNA:

  • A GoPro / high quality camera to capture amazing Northern Lights footage of your own!
  • Powered battery pack (and cable) for your smart phone and GoPro.
  • Layers of socks, including a pair of thick thermal socks.
  • Layers and layers!!! There is a strong recommendation of at least 3 layers when you are outside at all times. This involves a base layer (polyester or silk to not absorb sweat), a middle insulating layer like a thick fleece and an outer layer, ideally waterproof to block out wind, rain and snow. Ideally the outer coat will also have a hood.
  • Accessories to keep you warm, especially things like thermal gloves, bobble hats and ear muffs! Pack a few pairs of gloves in case they get wet. Ideally your glove ‘top layer’ will be waterproof.
  • Snood (neck warmer). If its windy, the cold chill on your face can take your breath away!

HOW TO GET TO LEVI IN FINLAND

GETTING TO LEVI BY AIR


The best way to get to Levi, the award-winning ski resort and village, is by flying into its closest airport KittilΓ€ International Airport (KTT), located just a 14 minute / 15km drive away.

While there are multiple flights that arrive into KittilΓ€ Airport daily, from the UK the only direct flight option we can find is with TUI, originating from London Gatwick. All the other options appear to have a change of one stop in Helsinki.

London Gatwick: Direct flights with TUI, approx. 3.5 hours.
London Heathrow: 1 stop via Helsinki with FinnAir.
Manchester: 1 stop via Helsinki with FinnAir.
Edinburgh: 1 stop via Helsinki with FinnAir.

Check SkyScanner for the best deals on your dates.

Top Tip: If you have to do a stop, why not consider a layover in Helsinki to see their Christmas markets?


LEVI FINLAND NORTHERN LIGHTS:
“KNOW BEFORE YOU GO” FAQ’S

WHAT IS THE BEST PLACE TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS IN LEVI?


While Levi ski resort is geographically in a great spot to see the Northern Lights, the light pollution within the resort and village itself can make it hard to see them naturally.

Therefore, the best place to actually see the Northern Lights in Levi is by venturing slightly further away from the resort itself into the Finnish wilderness, away from light pollution.

You can either self-guide yourself following an Aurora Alert app, go on a guided tour or strategically stay in a remote Levi accommodation.

CONCLUSION: LEVI FINLAND NORTHERN LIGHTS


In conclusion, a visit to the Levi ski area located in the KittilΓ€ municipality in northern Finland, is one of your best chances to witness the Northern Lights this Winter!

Either head out on one of many Northern lights tours to reach the best Aurora hotspots, whether on a comfortably classic Northern lights minivan safari or a Northern Lights adventure by snowmobile!

Maximise your chances to see the magical Aurora every night even further without the need for a guided tour by staying in Levi accommodations perfectly located and designed for viewing the Northern lights.

Our absolute favourite choices for couples are the Northern Lights Village and Northern Lights Ranch, plus the luxurious Polaris Villas perfect for larger groups between 4-6 people!

We hope this has been super helpful for you, and most importantly that you have the most incredible time spotting the dazzling Northern Lights in Levi, Finland this Winter!


A photo of Jordie, the author of this specific blog post and owner of the wesbite.

This blog post was written by Jordie Flain!

Founder of TheFlainsTravel.com

A travel-obsessed Sagittarius creating honest, easy-to-follow guides. Powered by tea, chocolate and a slightly concerning amount of tomato ketchup.

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