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Camping Magic: Experience the Southern Lights in Tasmania's Wilderness with a campervan

Embark on a journey into the heart of Tasmania, where the skies come alive with a celestial dance of colors. Welcome to the land of the Southern Lights, a spectacle that illuminates the southern horizon with its ethereal glow. In this tr avel blog post, we'll delve into the enchanting world of auroras and discover why Tasmania is the perfect destination to witness this mesmerizing phenomenon. So pack your sense of wonder and join us as we venture into the wild beauty of Tasmania in search of the Southern Lights.


Tasmania aurora australis with milky way in Tasmania
Credit: Luke Tscharke

Aurora Australis: Nature's Light Show


The Aurora Australis, also known as the Southern Lights, is a symphony of light and color that graces the night skies of the southern hemisphere. Born from the collision of charged particles from the sun with the Earth's magnetic field, these radiant curtains of light paint the heavens with hues of green, pink, and purple, creating a spectacle unlike any other.


Nestled in the southern reaches of Australia lies our beautiful island state Tasmania, a land of rugged wilderness and untouched beauty. With its pristine landscapes and clear, unpolluted skies, Tasmania offers the perfect canvas for witnessing the Southern Lights in all their glory.


Camping under the  aurora australis in Tasmania
Our campervan kunanyi enjoying the show

Our Best Spots to View the Southern Lights in Tasmania


For an unforgettable experience of the Southern Lights in Tasmania, choosing the right viewing spot is paramount. Optimal locations are those untouched by human light pollution, offering expansive views of the southern horizon. Here are some recommended spots where you can immerse yourself in the natural wonder of the auroras:


  • Cockle Creek: Located at the southernmost point of Tasmania, Cockle Creek offers a secluded coastal setting ideal for aurora viewing. Its remote location ensures minimal light pollution, providing a pristine backdrop for witnessing the Southern Lights.


  • Hartz Peak: Venture into the wilderness of Hartz Mountains National Park for a chance to witness the auroras from the summit of Hartz Peak. Surrounded by ancient forests and alpine landscapes, this vantage point offers a breathtaking panorama of the night sky.


  • Bruny Island: Escape to the tranquility of Bruny Island, where rugged coastlines and pristine beaches await. Find a secluded spot along the island's shores and gaze towards the southern horizon for a chance to witness the magical dance of the Southern Lights.

Aurora Australis, Cape Bruny Lighthouse
Credit: Luke Tscharke
  • Lake Gordon and Lake Pedder: Head inland to the remote wilderness of southwest Tasmania, where the vast expanses of Lake Gordon and Lake Pedder offer unparalleled opportunities for aurora viewing. Set up camp along the lakeshores and marvel at the celestial spectacle overhead.


  • Arthurs Lake: Nestled amidst the Central Highlands, Arthurs Lake is renowned for its tranquil waters and stunning natural beauty. Away from city lights, this pristine lake provides a serene setting for observing the Southern Lights reflected in its glassy surface.


  • Maria Island: Step back in time on Maria Island, a remote sanctuary for wildlife and nature lovers. With its pristine beaches and rugged coastline, this island paradise provides the perfect setting for a night of stargazing and aurora hunting.


  • Tasman Peninsula: Explore the dramatic coastal landscapes of the Tasman Peninsula, where towering sea cliffs and rugged terrain create a dramatic backdrop for aurora viewing. Find a secluded spot along the coastline and watch as the night sky comes alive with color.


  • Goat's Beach: Tucked away on the east coast of Tasmania, Goat's Beach offers a secluded escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Set up camp on the beach and enjoy uninterrupted views of the Southern Lights dancing across the horizon.


Aurora Australis and bioluminescence, Goats Bluff
Credit: Luke Tscharke

Aurora Australis, Tyndall Range, West Coast Range
Credit: allaboutadventure

Tips for Tasmania Aurora Chasers:


  1. Plan for Winter Nights: While the Southern Lights can be seen year-round, the winter months offer longer, darker nights, providing optimal conditions for aurora viewing.

  2. Choose Remote Locations: Head to coastal areas or high vantage points away from city lights to maximize your chances of seeing the auroras.

  3. Stay Informed: Keep an eye on space weather forecasts and aurora tracking services to plan your aurora hunting adventures.

  4. Capture the Moment: Don't forget your camera! Capture the beauty of the Southern Lights with long exposure shots and wide-angle lenses for stunning photos to cherish forever.


How to be alerted for an aurora sighting?

To ensure you don't miss an aurora sighting, there are a few options available. You can subscribe to the mailing list of the Australian Space Weather Forecasting Centre for timely alerts. Alternatively, joining local Facebook groups can also provide real-time updates, although these groups often focus more on immediate sightings and photo sharing after the fact.


The Off-Grid Adventure: why choose an off grid campervan to watch Tasmanian Southern Lights?


Tasmanian southern aurora borealis spotted in cockle creek

To truly immerse yourself in the magic of the Southern Lights, we recommend embarking on an off-grid adventure in a campervan. Picture yourself cruising along winding roads, surrounded by ancient forests and breathtaking vistas, with nothing but the open road and the promise of adventure ahead.


Renting an off-grid capable campervan allows you to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and venture into remote wilderness areas where light pollution is minimal. With the flexibility to choose your own camping spot, you can position yourself in prime locations for aurora viewing, ensuring an unforgettable experience beneath the dancing lights of the Southern Hemisphere.


Aurora Australis from Strahan, Tasmania, West Coast
Credit: Dietmar Kahles

In the heart of Tasmania's wilderness, under a blanket of stars, lies an experience that will ignite your sense of wonder and leave you breathless with awe. Rent an off-grid capable campervan, chart your course into the unknown, and chase the magic of the Southern Lights in Tasmania. Adventure awaits, where the sky meets the earth in a dance of light and dreams.


Are you ready to chase the Southern Lights? Let Tasvanlife be your guide.



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