Iceland is one of the best places in the world to witness the ethereal beauty of the Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis. This Nordic island nation offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes, accessible locations, and a high probability of aurora activity. The Northern Lights were on my personal bucket list, and I was not disappointed when I was finally able to see them. Here are some essential tips to help you plan your Northern Lights adventure in Iceland.
1. Choose the Right Locations
Iceland’s diverse landscapes provide numerous excellent spots for aurora viewing. Some of the top destinations include:
Reykjavik
While the capital city itself has light pollution, you don’t have to go far to find dark skies. Popular spots near Reykjavik include:
- Grótta Lighthouse: Just a short drive from the city center, this area offers a dark sky and scenic coastal views.
- Þingvellir National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s an hour’s drive from Reykjavik and provides a stunning backdrop for the Northern Lights with its rift valleys and clear skies.
Vik
Located along the southern coast, Vik is known for its black sand beaches and dramatic sea stacks. The dark skies and open landscapes make it a perfect spot for aurora hunting. The nearby Dyrhólaey promontory and Reynisfjara beach are particularly picturesque locations.
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
This glacial lagoon is one of Iceland’s most iconic natural wonders. Watching the Northern Lights reflect off the icebergs in the lagoon is a breathtaking experience. The nearby Diamond Beach, where icebergs wash up on the black sand, is another fantastic viewing spot.
Akureyri
Located in northern Iceland, Akureyri is the country’s second-largest city. It’s far enough from major sources of light pollution, and the surrounding fjords and mountains offer stunning scenery. The nearby Lake Mývatn area is also a great place to see the lights.
Westfjords
The remote and rugged Westfjords are less frequented by tourists, providing an ideal setting for uninterrupted aurora viewing. The small towns and vast wilderness areas ensure minimal light pollution and pristine night skies.
2. Stay in Northern Lights Hotels
Staying in a Northern Lights Hotel will give you a top Aurora experience. These hotels are awesome because they provide wake-up calls when the aurora is visible and have prime locations away from light pollution. Some top options include:
Hotel Rangá
Located in South Iceland, Hotel Rangá is a luxury resort that offers an excellent vantage point for the Northern Lights. The hotel features an observatory with high-quality telescopes for stargazing, and guests can enjoy the lights from outdoor hot tubs.
Ion Adventure Hotel
Situated near Þingvellir National Park, the Ion Adventure Hotel offers modern, eco-friendly accommodations with stunning views of the surrounding lava fields and mountains. The hotel’s Northern Lights Bar provides a cozy spot to watch the aurora.
Frost and Fire Hotel
Located in the town of Hveragerði, Frost and Fire Hotel is known for its geothermal hot tubs and riverside location. The hotel offers a serene environment for aurora viewing, with easy access to natural hot springs and the Reykjadalur valley.
Northern Light Inn
Just a short drive from the Blue Lagoon, the Northern Light Inn is ideally situated for travelers looking to combine aurora hunting with geothermal spa experiences. The hotel offers a comfortable stay with Northern Lights wake-up calls and large windows for optimal viewing.
Hotel Husafell
Nestled in the west of Iceland, Hotel Husafell offers a luxurious stay in a remote setting perfect for Northern Lights viewing. The hotel provides wake-up calls for the aurora and has outdoor hot tubs for a relaxing viewing experience.
3. Visit During Peak Season
The best time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland is from late September to early April. During these months, the nights are long and dark, providing optimal conditions for aurora viewing. December through February are typically the peak months, but the aurora can be seen any time during the season with clear skies.
4. Check the Weather and Aurora Forecasts
Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, so it’s important to monitor the forecast regularly. Clear skies are essential for seeing the Northern Lights. Websites like the Icelandic Meteorological Office provide up-to-date weather and aurora forecasts. Apps like My Aurora Forecast can also help you track aurora activity and find the best times to venture out.
5. Stay Away from Light Pollution
To maximize your chances of seeing the Northern Lights, venture away from urban areas with significant light pollution. Iceland’s countryside offers many remote locations with dark skies. Consider renting a car or joining a guided tour that takes you to prime viewing spots. Iceland is easy to navigate by car but keep in mind peak Northern Light viewing is during winter and roads can be treacherous. Keep an eye on the forecast.
6. Be Patient and Flexible
Seeing the Northern Lights requires patience and sometimes a bit of luck. Be prepared to wait for several hours, and consider planning multiple nights of aurora hunting to increase your chances. Flexibility is key – if the forecast changes or the weather doesn’t cooperate, having a few backup plans can make a big difference.
7. Dress Warmly
Iceland’s winter temperatures can be extremely cold, often dropping well below freezing. Dress in layers, including thermal underwear, insulated jackets, hats, gloves, and sturdy boots. Staying warm is crucial, especially if you spend long hours outdoors waiting for the lights to appear.
8. Capture the Moment
Bringing a good camera and learning how to photograph the Northern Lights can help you capture this magical experience. Use a DSLR or mirrorless camera with manual settings. I have this camera and it takes great photos. I am in no means a photographer but with a little research its been really easy to use. A tripod is essential for stability during long exposures. I set my camera to a high ISO, a wide aperture, and a long exposure time to capture the lights’ brilliance. Experiment with different settings to get the perfect shot.
9. Consider a Guided Tour
If you’re new to aurora hunting, consider booking a guided tour. Experienced guides know the best spots and can provide valuable insights and tips. They often have access to real-time aurora data and can adjust the tour’s itinerary to maximize your chances of seeing the lights. Check out this
Northern Lights Tour with Icelandic Snacks and Hot Chocolate.
10. Enjoy the Experience
Lastly, remember to take in the moment. While capturing photos is great, don’t forget to look up and appreciate the natural wonder with your own eyes. The Northern Lights are a magical, ephemeral phenomenon that can leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
Conclusion
Iceland offers an incredible setting for witnessing the Northern Lights, with its stunning natural landscapes and accessible viewing locations. By choosing the right spots, staying in Northern Lights hotels, visiting during peak season, staying informed about weather and aurora forecasts, and being prepared for cold conditions, you can increase your chances of experiencing this breathtaking natural display. Happy aurora hunting!
For more Iceland travel tips and adventures, check out on my post on the Best Places to Visit In Iceland. Don’t forget to share your Northern Lights experiences in Iceland with us in the comments below!
