Discover 16 Amazing Places You Can See the Southern Lights (Aurora Australis)

The Southern Lights, also known as the Aurora Australis, have captivated humanity for centuries. Just like their northern counterpart, the Northern Lights or Aurora Borealis, these celestial lights mesmerize viewers as they dance across the night sky. While the Northern Lights are more famous, the Southern Lights offer an equally beautiful spectacle in the Southern Hemisphere. From remote islands to icy landscapes, we introduce you to 16 amazing places where you can witness the enchanting beauty of the Southern Lights.

1. Stewart Island, New Zealand

Stewart Island is located at the southern tip of New Zealand’s South Island. It is one of the places that serves as a gateway to the magical world of the Aurora Australis. This remote and pristine island boasts dark skies that provide an ideal canvas for observing the celestial light displays. Away from the light pollution of urban areas, visitors have a higher chance of witnessing the Southern Lights.

The island’s dense forests and coastal shores provide a haven for numerous species. This includes the elusive kiwi bird, which finds refuge in the island’s lush undergrowth. Sea lions and fur seals can be spotted basking on its rocky shores. Meanwhile, a variety of seabirds, including albatrosses and penguins, grace its skies and waters.

Guided tours and excursions on Stewart Island offer enthusiasts the chance to experience the phenomenon. With expert guidance, you can find the best places to experience the lights. Whether you’re a dedicated aurora chaser or a casual observer, Stewart Island’s accessibility and natural beauty make it an attractive destination for witnessing the Southern Lights.

2. South Georgia Island

South Georgia Island is situated in the remote Southern Ocean. It provides a unique opportunity to witness the Aurora Australis in a setting of breathtaking isolation.

As a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers, this rugged and untamed landscape becomes even more enchanting when illuminated by the Southern Lights. Its rich marine ecosystem hosts vast colonies of seabirds, including wandering albatrosses with the largest wingspans. Penguins thrive on the island’s shores, all kinds of species from king penguins to macaroni penguins. Fur seals and elephant seals can be found lounging on the beaches. Meanwhile, the waters around the island teem with diverse marine life, from whales to krill.

Away from the lights of human habitation, the dark skies of South Georgia Island are perfect to see the dancing lights in the sky. The vibrant hues add an extra layer of fascination to the island as they dance above the icy terrain and the azure waters. Therefore, the experience of witnessing the Southern Lights amidst the backdrop of an untouched wilderness is nothing short of incredible.

3. Queenstown, New Zealand

Often referred to as the adventure capital of the world, Queenstown is a hub for adrenaline-pumping activities. However, it is also a prime location for experiencing the Southern Lights.

Nestled between picturesque lakes and the majestic Southern Alps, this New Zealand town provides a stunning backdrop for observing the celestial phenomenon. As night falls, visitors can head to elevated vantage points to witness the ethereal dance of colors.

Queenstown’s natural beauty and mystical lights create an unforgettable experience that speaks to both adventurers and those seeking tranquility. Whether you’re capturing photographs of the auroras reflecting on Lake Wakatipu or simply gazing at the luminous spectacle overhead, Queenstown’s allure extends beyond its daytime adventures.

4. Tasmania, Australia

Tasmania, Australia’s island state, offers a unique opportunity to witness the Southern Lights in the southern hemisphere. However, Tasmania’s relatively low latitude makes the sightings less frequent than in polar regions. But periods of heightened solar activity can grant lucky observers the chance to witness the ethereal lights.

The Tasmanian landscapes, ranging from rugged coastlines to lush forests, also offer diverse settings for observing the celestial phenomenon. The island’s most iconic inhabitant is the Tasmanian devil, a carnivorous marsupial known for its fierce demeanor. The Tasmanian tiger also once roamed these lands and continues to engage curiosity despite its extinction. Wombats, wallabies, and pademelons are also common sights. Meanwhile, the skies are filled with a variety of bird species, including the endangered swift parrot. Tasmania’s rugged coastlines are also home to seals, sea lions, and even migrating whales.

Away from city lights, designated dark sky areas in Tasmania provide optimal conditions for stargazing and aurora hunting. A sighting of the Southern Lights in Tasmania may require patience and good timing. However, the experience of witnessing this natural light show in Australia’s natural beauty is well worth the effort.

5. Falkland Islands

Nestled in the South Atlantic Ocean, the Falkland Islands offer a remote and secluded setting for experiencing the Aurora Australis. Away from the light pollution of urban areas, these islands provide an ideal environment for observing the celestial phenomenon.

These islands are renowned for their abundant seabird colonies, including species like albatrosses, penguins, and petrels. Iconic rockhopper penguins climb rugged cliffs to reach their nesting sites, while black-browed albatrosses glide gracefully overhead. The Falklands also offer prime breeding grounds for elephant seals and sea lions. The islands’ rich marine ecosystems also support a variety of marine life, from orcas to dolphins.

The Falkland Islands’ dark skies, especially during the winter months, allow visitors to witness this dance of vibrant colors. The combination of the auroras’ brilliance and the islands’ serene landscapes creates an immersive experience.

6. Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve, New Zealand

The Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve is situated on New Zealand’s South Island. It is not only a sanctuary for stargazers but also a prime location for witnessing the Aurora Australis. Designated as an International Dark Sky Reserve, this area boasts minimal light pollution, allowing for pristine night sky views.

The combination of clear skies, minimal light interference, and dedicated observatories enhances the chances of witnessing the Southern Lights in their full glory. Visitors to the reserve can partake in guided tours, astronomy programs, and stargazing events. These provide insights into the universe while also immersing them in the spectacle of the celestial lights.

7. Ushuaia, Argentina

Ushuaia in Argentina is often referred to as the “End of the World.” It also holds the distinction of being the southernmost city on Earth. Its unique geographical location places it in a prime position for witnessing the Aurora Australis.

Patagonian foxes and Andean condors roam the lands and skies. Meanwhile, the surrounding waters are home to seals, sea lions, and various seabird species. Ushuaia’s proximity to the Southern Ocean also makes it a prime location for whale watching, with species such as humpback whales and orcas.

Situated at the tip of Argentina’s Tierra del Fuego, Ushuaia has clear skies and the ideal southern latitude for observing the lights. Whether from the city itself or from vantage points in its surrounding areas, visitors can witness the dance of colors across the southern night sky.

8. Otago Peninsula, New Zealand

The Otago Peninsula, located on New Zealand’s South Island, offers a unique place to observe the Aurora Australis against the backdrop of the ocean. This coastal area provides unobstructed views of the celestial phenomenon. Away from the lights of urban areas, the Otago Peninsula’s relatively dark skies enhance the visibility of the auroras. Visitors can also find themselves in a serene environment where the sound of crashing waves accompanies the dance of the lights in the sky.

9. Rakiura National Park, New Zealand

Rakiura National Park on Stewart Island, New Zealand, not only preserves diverse wildlife but also provides a unique opportunity to experience the Southern Lights.

Its unique geography, where the ocean floor rises rapidly from the deep trench, creates a nutrient-rich environment that draws an abundance of marine life. The park is renowned for its population of sperm whales, which can be observed through whale-watching tours. Fur seals and dusky dolphins also thrive in the coastal waters, providing captivating encounters for visitors. The park’s diverse birdlife also includes albatrosses and petrels.

The park’s pristine landscapes and designated dark sky areas offer optimal conditions for observing the celestial phenomenon. Away from the urban glow, visitors can enjoy the enchanting dance of the Aurora Australis against a backdrop of untouched nature.

10. Easter Island, Chile

Easter Island, located in the South Pacific Ocean and known for its mysterious Moai statues, offers a captivating setting for witnessing the Southern Lights. The island’s isolation and relatively clear skies create an opportunity to observe the auroras against the backdrop of these ancient sculptures.

As the Southern Lights play across the night sky, they cast an ethereal glow over the Moai statues. This adds an extra layer of mystique to this already enigmatic destination.

11. Rothera Research Station, Antarctica

Rothera Research Station, located in the remote expanse of Antarctica, is a center for scientific research. But people can also visit it to watch the Aurora Australis. Scientists stationed here have the privilege of witnessing the celestial light displays on a regular basis. Away from light pollution and in the heart of polar darkness, the research station provides a unique opportunity for scientists and researchers to study the auroras up close while being immersed in the beauty of the Antarctic landscapes.

12. Oamaru, New Zealand

Nestled on the eastern coast of New Zealand’s South Island, Oamaru is a charming historic town. Its location within the Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve ensures minimal light pollution. Therefore, this provides optimal conditions for stargazing and aurora watching. As night falls, visitors can venture to viewpoints around Oamaru to catch a glimpse of the ethereal lights dancing across the southern horizon. The combination of Oamaru’s heritage architecture and the mesmerizing Aurora Australis creates a truly enchanting experience.

13. Río Gallegos, Argentina

Río Gallegos, a city in southern Argentina, offers a glimpse of the Southern Lights to those who venture to its remote location. Situated near the southern tip of South America, Río Gallegos provides the perfect vantage point for observing the Aurora Australis. The city’s relative proximity to Antarctica and its dark skies enhance the chances of witnessing this ethereal display. Thus, it creates a unique and memorable experience for travelers.

14. Port Lockroy, Antarctica

Port Lockroy, a historic site in Antarctica, offers a glimpse into the region’s past. This former British research station, now a museum, allows visitors to immerse themselves in Antarctica’s history. Meanwhile, they can also view the spectacle of the Aurora Australis. As the celestial lights illuminate the polar night, the juxtaposition of natural wonder and human history creates a unique and evocative experience.

15. Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

Fiordland National Park, located in New Zealand’s South Island, is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, including fjords, waterfalls, and lush forests. It also provides an opportunity to witness the Southern Lights in a stunning natural setting. Away from the lights of urban areas, the park’s remote locations offer optimal conditions for observing the celestial lights. Visitors can immerse themselves in the splendor of Fiordland’s natural theater while gazing at the mesmerizing Aurora Australis.

16. South Orkney Islands, Antarctica

The South Orkney Islands, a group of islands located near the Antarctic Peninsula, offer a view of the Southern Lights in the heart of polar darkness. Away from light pollution and with uninterrupted views of the southern sky, these islands provide an optimal environment for observing the celestial light displays.

Therefore, whether viewed from research stations or from the remote wilderness, the Southern Lights transform the night sky into a symphony of color and wonder.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Sergey 402/Shutterstock.com