People living close to the Arctic Circle experience unique natural phenomena—the Midnight sun in the summer and the Polar night in the winter. Every year, during the winter months, you can witness 24 hours of darkness in the northern part of Finland . Finns call this period "Kaamos".
This period usually begins around December and lasts from several weeks up to two months in the northernmost regions like In Utsjoki village, which is close to the Arctic Circle. The level of darkness depends on the altitude. The closer you are to the pole, the darker this period will be. The further away you move from the pole towards the equator, the more darkness will fade and transition to twilight and eventually the sun will appear over the horizon. The northern region of Lapland with its beautiful winter scenery is one of the best places to observe this natural phenomenon.
The Polar night usually coincides with the winter solstice, on the 21st of December. In some regions days are just becoming shorter, leaving only a few hours of sunlight per day. This phenomenon occurs right below the Polar Circle. When it hides below the horizon, all of the landscape is covered with blue and violet shades. It is especially beautiful when there is plenty of snow, and the shades reflect and glitter. The same thing happens before the sunrise, even if it doesn't occur. You can also observe stunning Northern Lights in the northern parts of Finland. Kaamos is a truly magical period for those who are not afraid of cold and darkness.
Practical info
What is Kaamos in Finland?
In Finland, Kaamos refers to the period of darkness that Northern Finland experiences during the winter months, lasting up to two months. The period usually starts in December and is characterized by 24 hours of darkness, making it an extraordinary experience. Explorers who visit during this period can witness an intriguing and captivating natural phenomenon that creates particular charm and magic to the Northern landscapes. Show more
When does the Polar Night occur in northern Finland?
The Polar Night in Finland takes place generally between December and January. It is the period when there is no sunlight, and the entire region is in complete darkness for 24 hours. Depending on the altitude, the duration and intensity of the darkness vary. Explorers can experience the beautiful and intriguing Kaamos during the Polar Night in Northern Finland, a fantastic winter experience recorded in the finest details and shared throughout the world. Show more
How long does the Polar Night period last in Finland?
In the northernmost parts of Finland, the Polar Night lasts for several weeks up to two months. This significant phenomenon usually starts in December and ends in January. The darkness varies with altitude to the point that some areas may experience more darkness than others. The Polar Night is a picturesque wonder that calms the landscapes and creates beautiful and bewitching wall art found only in the far north landscapes of Finland. Show more
Where is the best place to witness Kaamos in Finland?
One of the best places to experience Kaamos, the fantastic winter experience in Finland, is in the region of Lapland, primarily in the Utsjoki village close to the Arctic Circle. The darkness lasts a few weeks, getting shorter, the further south one ventures. Rovaniemi, the 'official hometown of Santa Claus,' sees only a few hours of complete darkness each day. Explorers can revel in the beauty of this natural phenomenon and the wintry landscapes that accompany it, including the Northern Lights, when visiting this remarkable region. Show more
Are there any other natural phenomena that can be observed during the Polar Night in Finland?
In addition to Kaamos, visitors to Northern Finland during the Polar Night can witness the breathtaking Northern Lights, one of the most inspiring wonders of nature. The skies light up with vivid colors, adding a breathtaking luminescent quality to the dark and peaceful landscapes. The views take one's breath away and are an incredible experience that can only be seen in certain locations during certain times. Visitors can explore outdoor winter activities like skiing, snowmobiling, and even reindeer rides while taking in the endless captivating beauty of the environment. Show more
