Polar Nights and Eternal Twilight: 5 Brilliant Reasons to Chase the Arctic’s Magic
Ever fancied stepping into a world so otherworldly it feels like a dream? The Polar Night offers exactly that—a surreal time when the sun takes a prolonged holiday, leaving the Arctic in perpetual twilight. But don’t be fooled by the lack of daylight—this is when the Arctic truly comes alive.
The Polar Night is one of nature’s most quietly extraordinary spectacles—a time when the sun doesn’t rise at all, leaving the landscape bathed in soft, dreamlike light.
So, what exactly is it? Polar night happens north of the Arctic Circle (or south of the Antarctic Circle) during winter, when the sun stays stubbornly below the horizon for 24 hours or more. The further you venture towards the poles, the longer it lasts. In fact, at the North Pole, the sun disappears in September and doesn’t return until March—a staggering 179 days of night. But it’s not total darkness. Even without a sunrise, sunlight still sneaks into the sky, refracting just enough to create layers of twilight—deep blues, dusky purples, and fleeting pinks. This “polar twilight” paints the world in an otherworldly glow, making it feel as though you’re wandering through a living watercolour.
For those who call these regions home, it’s more than just a season; it’s a way of life. The long night inspires a slower pace—time spent gathered indoors, sharing stories, and enjoying the stillness. Outside, the landscape transforms into a place of magic. Snow sparkles under the faint light, and if you’re lucky, the Northern Lights might dance across the sky.
Here’s why this polar adventure deserves a spot on your travel wishlist:
Who needs a torch when the Northern Lights are at their most dazzling? During the Polar Night, the Arctic sky becomes a stage for this natural wonder, with heightened activity turning the darkness into a canvas of shimmering greens, pinks, and violets. It’s a show that’s brighter, bolder, and more frequent than any other time - proof that the long nights are anything but dull. And you’ve got the best seat in the house.
Think the dark means all’s quiet? Not a chance. Arctic foxes, reindeer, and snowy owls roam this frozen wonderland, thriving in the cold and dark. Fewer people travel during the Polar Night, which means fewer disturbances - and nature takes full advantage. With the quiet settling in, wildlife tends to venture out. With a bit of luck (and a warm pair of boots), you might spot these creatures in their natural element.
There’s a stillness in the Arctic during Polar Night that’s hard to put into words. It’s a rare kind of calm, almost meditative, perfect for finding a bit of peace. But life here doesn’t stop when the sun disappears. The locals know how to embrace the dark. Bright artificial lights fill homes and streets and daylight lamps mimic the sun and keep spirits high. Join the outdoor activities as locals bundle up for cross-country skiing, ice skating, and dog sledding under moonlit snow. Festivities and celebrations light up the darkness, proving the Polar Night is vibrant in darkness.
Even without a proper sunrise, the Arctic isn’t entirely dark. Moonlight bounces off snowy landscapes, and the stars feel close enough to touch. There’s a soft glow to everything—a magical, luminous aura that has to be seen to be believed.
When the sun finally returns, it’s not just a sunrise—it’s an event. Locals celebrate with joyous traditions, particularly in towns like Tromsø and Alta, reminding us just how precious daylight really is. Then there’s the ‘blue hour’, a magical midday twilight where the sky glows deep blue like nature’s brief nod to twilight. You’ll leave with a whole new appreciation for that golden glow.
Although we don’t run trips in the Arctic Circle during the Polar Night itself, January is one of the best months to experience the magic of short days and wintry wonderlands. With crisp snow conditions, fewer people about, and the cosiness of fireside evenings, it’s the perfect time to join a Gutsy Girls adventure.
Our most northern trip, the Finland Multi-Activity Adventure in Kuusamo, offers everything from snowshoeing to fat biking (have a look here). Fancy something a little further south? Our Lapland Winter Adventure or the Cross-Country Ski and Yoga Weekend in Norway could be just the ticket.
