The Southern Lights, also known as Aurora Australis, are a breathtaking celestial display in the southern hemisphere. If you’re lucky enough to witness them, you’ll see the night sky painted with vibrant hues of green, pink, and purple.
So, where can you see the Southern Lights? Here are the top 10 locations to witness this magnificent spectacle, all across the southern hemisphere.
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What are the Southern Lights?
The Southern Lights, or Aurora Australis, are the southern hemisphere’s counterpart to the more famous Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). These mesmerizing light displays form when charged particles from the sun collide with Earth’s magnetic field and atmosphere.
The process begins with solar storms on the sun’s surface, which eject streams of charged particles into space. As these particles approach Earth, they are guided by our planet’s magnetic field towards the poles. Upon entering the atmosphere, they collide with oxygen and nitrogen atoms, causing them to become excited and release energy in the form of light.
When can you see the Southern Lights?
Viewing the Southern Lights requires clear, dark skies and strong solar activity. The prime time for aurora viewing in the Southern Hemisphere is during their winter, from June to August, when nights are longest and darkest. However, auroras can be visible year-round, with notable peaks in activity often occurring around the equinoxes in March and September.
The colors you can see in the aurora depend on the intensity of solar activity and the gases present in the atmosphere when they pass through. Green and pink are most common, with some blues, reds, and purples.
The human eye may perceive these colors differently than cameras, which can capture a broader spectrum of auroral hues.
How often do the Southern Lights happen?
Much like the Northern Lights, the Southern Lights occur more frequently than we can see them. In fact, they’re happening all year! It just isn’t always dark enough to see them. They last longer and are more vibrant when there’s stronger solar activity.
Follow solar flare trackers to determine the best time to see the Southern Lights while on your trip. Here is a Northern and Southern Lights forecast with real-time data. Look for a Kp Index score of 4 or higher; this means you’re more likely to see a vibrant display.
10 Best Places to See the Southern Lights
Stewart Island, New Zealand
If you want to see the Southern Lights in New Zealand, travel to Stewart Island. For the best views, head to Observation Rock or Lee Bay, where the lack of light pollution provides an unobstructed view of the aurora.
During the day, explore the pristine wilderness of Rakiura National Park, where you can go on birdwatching adventures to spot the rare kiwi in its natural habitat. Or hike the Rakiura Track, a 32-kilometer circuit that showcases the island’s diverse ecosystems. The island also offers opportunities for kayaking in its sheltered bays and fishing in its abundant waters.
Mt. John Observatory, New Zealand
Located in the heart of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, Mt. John Observatory is another ideal spot in New Zealand for aurora watching. The observatory’s elevated position and state-of-the-art facilities offer unparalleled views of the Southern Lights dancing across the sky.
Join a guided stargazing tour, where expert astronomers can help you identify various celestial objects and explain the science behind the auroras. During the day, enjoy scenic walks around the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo or relax in the nearby Tekapo Springs hot pools.
Tasmania
Tasmania’s southerly location makes it one of the best places around Australia to view the Southern Lights. Mount Wellington and South Arm Peninsula are favorite spots, offering clear views of the night sky. Because of its location, auroras can be seen year-round in Tasmania if conditions are right.
When you’re not watching for the Southern Lights in Tasmania, immerse yourself in nature by exploring in the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. You can also take a guided tour of the historic Port Arthur site to learn about Australia’s convict history, or visit the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) in Hobart for a unique cultural experience.
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Phillip Island, Australia
To see the Southern Lights in Australia, it’s best to go as far south as you can. Phillip Island in Victoria is an excellent place for this. It’s close enough to Melbourne for easier access but far enough away that the skies aren’t polluted with the city lights at night.
Don’t miss the famous Penguin Parade here, where you can watch little penguins return to their burrows at sunset. The island also offers scenic coastal walks, such as the Cape Woolamai circuit, which has stunning views of the rugged coastline. You can also visit the Koala Conservation Centre or take a wildlife cruise to spot seals and dolphins in their natural habitat.
Patagonia, Chile
Torres del Paine National Park in Chilean Patagonia offers a stunning backdrop for aurora viewing. The park’s remote location and minimal light pollution create ideal conditions for observing the Southern Lights. However, Patagonian weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for rapidly changing conditions and stay updated on weather forecasts.
When not aurora hunting, embark on the famous W Trek, a multi-day hiking route that showcases the park’s most iconic landscapes. Spot native species such as guanacos, Andean condors, and, if lucky, the elusive puma. The nearby town of Puerto Natales offers a range of accommodations and serves as a gateway to the park, with numerous tour operators offering guided excursions tailored to various interests and fitness levels.
Atacama Desert, Chile
The Atacama Desert in northern Chile is renowned for its exceptional stargazing conditions and offers a unique opportunity to witness the Southern Lights. The La Silla Observatory, operated by the European Southern Observatory (ESO), is a fantastic site for aurora viewing. It’s located at an altitude of 2,400 meters and benefits from over 300 clear nights per year.
Explore the otherworldly landscapes of Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley), visit the Atacama Salt Flat, or take a dip in the Puritama Hot Springs. You can also enjoy activities such as sandboarding, mountain biking, and hiking in this unique desert environment. The town of San Pedro de Atacama serves as an excellent base for exploring the region, offering a range of accommodations and tour options to suit various preferences and budgets.
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Ushuaia, Argentina
Known as the world’s southernmost city, Ushuaia offers great views of the Southern Lights. Tierra del Fuego National Park, just outside the city, has dark skies and stunning mountain scenery for prime aurora hunting.
Take a boat tour through the Beagle Channel to spot marine wildlife and visit the historic Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse. The End of the World Train, a scenic railway that once transported prisoners, now offers tourists a journey through the stunning landscapes of Tierra del Fuego. For adventure seekers, Ushuaia serves as a gateway for Antarctic expeditions, offering a unique opportunity to explore the world’s southernmost continent.
The Falkland Islands
The remote Falkland Islands provide ideal conditions for aurora viewing. It’s in the South Atlantic Ocean, far from any major sources of light pollution, with pristine dark skies. The best viewing spots include the areas around Stanley, the capital, and more remote locations like Volunteer Point.
While waiting for the lights, engage in world-class penguin watching! The Falklands are home to five penguin species, including large colonies of gentoo, king, and rockhopper penguins. History enthusiasts can explore the numerous historical sites that dot the islands, including remnants from the 1982 Falklands War. The Falklands also offer excellent opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife photography, with diverse landscapes ranging from rugged coastlines to rolling hills.
South Georgia Island
Enjoy the auroras on South Georgia Island from October to March, during the austral summer when the island is accessible to visitors. South Georgia’s remote location and absence of permanent human settlements ensure dark skies ideal for aurora watching. The best (and really, the only) way to visit is by cruise ship or scientific research project.
During your visit, immerse yourself in the island’s incredible biodiversity. South Georgia is home to vast colonies of king penguins, with St. Andrews Bay hosting over 100,000 breeding pairs. Wildlife photographers will find endless subjects, from elephant seals lounging on beaches to albatrosses soaring overhead. Many visitors participate in research expeditions or citizen science projects, contributing to the ongoing conservation efforts on this unique sub-Antarctic island.
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Antarctica
Viewing the Southern lights in Antarctica is a bucket list trip for many people. The best time to visit is during the Antarctic summer, from November to March, when most cruises operate. While the long daylight hours of summer can make aurora viewing challenging, even brief periods of darkness can offer opportunities to see the Southern Lights, especially during periods of intense solar activity.
Beyond aurora watching, Antarctica offers unparalleled opportunities for wildlife observation and landscape photography. Witness vast colonies of penguins, including emperor penguins in more remote areas, and observe seals and whales in their natural habitat. Many expeditions offer opportunities for kayaking among icebergs, hiking on the Antarctic Peninsula, or even camping on the ice. An Antarctic expedition is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience, offering a unique perspective on our planet’s southernmost wilderness.
Where will you go to see the Southern Lights?
Each of these locations offers a unique perspective on the Southern Lights, with plenty of other activities to make the trip even more memorable. Remember to check local weather conditions, aurora forecasts, and travel advisories to maximize your chances of witnessing this spectacular natural phenomenon while ensuring a safe and enjoyable trip.
Whether you’re an avid aurora chaser or a curious traveler seeking a new adventure, the quest to see the Southern Lights promises an unforgettable experience! So, where will you travel to next?
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