6 Accessible (and Amazing) Places to See the Southern Lights

If you want to combine viewing the Southern Lights while also exploring a city, then Ushuaia is the answer. This Argentinian destination, which also happens to be the world’s southernmost city, is easy to reach. Although cities aren’t the ideal place to see a clear night sky, thanks to pollution and cloud cover, travelers will still have the opportunity to explore the beautiful Argentinean south if the fates don’t align to light up the sky. Surrounded by the Martial Mountains and known as “The End of the World,” Ushuaia attracts adventure-seekers to its ski resort, Cerro Castor, and wildlife fans for boat trips to the nearby Isla Yécapasela, whose native penguin inhabitants have blessed it with the nickname “Penguin Island.”


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While a Southern Lights sighting is never guaranteed (even the Northern Lights don’t always shine), Queenstown, New Zealand offers one of the best chances to see them. Specifically, the shore of South Island’s Lake Wakatipu is the perfect spot for those chasing natural highs. Beyond exploring the gorgeous mountain landscape and some of the country’s best vineyards, travelers will also have the opportunity to see the Southern Lights parade over the lake. The best time to visit for the lights is during the winter (March to September) when the days are shorter. 


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Situated approximately 18 miles south of South Island, Stewart Island may offer a greater chance of seeing the Southern Lights, given that it’s further south. The only problem is that amenities on New Zealand’s third-largest island don’t compare to the base of Queensland. That said, you’ll have fewer options should the lights refuse to show up during your trip. However, the wild beauty of the island can be explored with nature tours and ferry trips around the coast, which set up the chance of seeing the Aurora Australis sparkle on the water.

Located 400 miles off the coast of Argentina, the Falkland Islands give visitors a great opportunity to see the Southern Lights, thanks to its location. The best time to visit is between April and August, when daylight hours are minimal, allowing for a higher chance of seeing the shimmering sky. To top it all off, the British overseas territory is also home to a beautiful natural landscape and wildlife, including penguins.

An isolated island state off the southern coast of Australia, Tasmania’s location deep in the Southern Hemisphere makes it a good spot for stargazing. Beyond the beauty of its lakes, mountains, white-sand beaches, and national parks, the other thing the island has going for it is its culinary scene. Known for its chocolate, cheeses, and wines, you’ll never be short of gourmet grub to snack on while scanning the sky for the Southern Lights.  


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The Southern Lights make a rare appearance in Chile, but Patagoniahas had recorded sightings. Like many of the other destinations on the list, the months between March and September offer the best chance of witnessing the spectacular Aurora Australis. But that’s not the only spectacular thing you’'ll see. The Southern Lights would be an added bonus to experiencing the amazing landscape that covers the region.


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