Oulu in February 2026
Budget travellers using Oulu as an affordable gateway to Finnish Lapland aurora experiences. Here's everything you need to plan your February visit.
🌡️ Weather in Oulu in February
February in Oulu sits at -8°C average, which is cold — warm layers and waterproofs needed. Expect around 10 hours of darkness each night. Pack accordingly and check the detailed packing list below.
🌌 Northern Lights in February
Oulu has a base aurora score of 6/10. In February, aurora is possible on clear nights. With 10 hours of darkness, you have reasonable viewing windows if solar activity cooperates.
Tips for aurora chasing in February: Head away from town light pollution, check real-time Kp forecasts (apps like SpaceWeatherLive or My Aurora Forecast), and allow at least 3 nights to maximise your chances of a sighting.
🎯 What to Do in Oulu in February
Activity availability depends on snow / ice conditions and local operator schedules. Always confirm in advance.
🎒 What to Pack for February in Oulu
Thermal base layers, fleece or down mid-layer, waterproof outer shell
Waterproof hiking or snow boots with good grip on icy terrain
Warm hat and insulated gloves; layers you can remove as you warm up
Camera with manual mode, wide-angle lens (f/2.8 or faster), and sturdy tripod
Extra camera batteries — cold drains power fast; keep spares in an inner pocket
Remote shutter release or intervalometer for long-exposure aurora shots
Ski goggles or polarised sports glasses for snow glare
Waterproof salopettes or snow trousers for multi-hour outdoor activities
🏨 Accommodation in February
This is peak season — book accommodation 2–4 months in advance. Expect prices around $55+/night for mid-range options. Popular choices include City hotels, Design hotels, Guesthouses. Aurora lodges and glass cabins sell out fastest.
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🧭 Also Great in February
Other top polar destinations worth considering for a February trip

Antarctic Peninsula
Bucket-list adventurers seeking the world's most extraordinary wildlife experience in the last great wilderness

Svalbard
Bucket-list adventurers wanting the ultimate Arctic experience with maximum aurora intensity

Abisko
Aurora purists who want scientifically the clearest skies on Earth for northern lights viewing
Plan Oulu by Month
Highlighted in green = best months for Oulu