Iceland, often referred to as the Land of Fire and Ice, is renowned for its awe-inspiring natural beauty. One of the most enchanting experiences one can have in Iceland is observing the dazzling display of the Northern Lights, also known as the aurora borealis. This ethereal spectacle is caused by the interaction of solar particles with Earth’s magnetic field, and can be observed in Iceland for more than 100 nights a year, making it one of the top destinations in the world for this remarkable phenomenon. In this all-inclusive guide, we will uncover the prime locations in Iceland to witness the Northern Lights, the ideal time to visit, unique tour options, and more.

When is the Best Time to See the Northern Lights in Iceland?

In order to increase your chances of seeing the Aurora Borealis in Iceland, it is crucial to plan your trip during the prime viewing season, which falls between September and mid-April. This time of year offers longer nights, allowing for ideal darkness for the lights to emerge. It is advised to avoid scheduling your trip during a full moon, as the bright moonlight can hinder the visibility of the lights. Opting to arrive around five days before a new moon is suggested, as the skies will be at their darkest, providing optimal viewing conditions for the Northern Lights.

One important aspect to take into account is the arrival of the equinoxes, which signal periods of equal daylight and darkness. These equinoxes typically fall on March 20 and September 23 and can amplify the intensity of the auroras because of heightened geomagnetic disruptions. Furthermore, it should be noted that solar activity greatly influences the visibility of the Northern Lights. The upcoming solar maximum, forecasted to start in 2025, is anticipated to result in increased aurora activity, making the years 2024, 2025, and 2026 especially opportune for experiencing brilliant light displays.

For updated information on the chances of catching a glimpse of the Northern Lights during your trip, make use of the Aurora Forecast application. This tool offers live updates on the location of the auroral oval and the likelihood of spotting the lights in your particular destination. Keep an eye on the app’s probability indicator, with a scale from dark green for low activity to bright red for high activity, to plan your viewing experiences accordingly.

Best Places to See the Northern Lights in Iceland

In Iceland, there are countless breathtaking spots where one can witness the beautiful Northern Lights. Each location has its own special appeal. While the capital city of Reykjavik may offer occasional sightings, it is recommended to leave the city’s light pollution behind for a higher likelihood of experiencing the full magnificence of the auroras. Let’s take a closer look at some of the best places in Iceland for viewing the Northern Lights.

1. Thingvellir National Park

Thingvellir National Park, situated close to Reykjavik, is a highly sought-after spot for observing the Northern Lights. Its vast expanse and limited light pollution make it the perfect setting to fully immerse yourself in the magnificence of the auroras. Furthermore, the park boasts breathtaking natural attractions such as volcanoes, lakes, and waterfalls, creating a picturesque backdrop for your Northern Lights experience.

2. Hella

Located in the south of Iceland, the charming town of Hella is the proud home of Hotel Rangá. This prestigious hotel is a popular choice among those who are passionate about the breathtaking aurora. In addition to offering an aurora alert system to guarantee that you never miss a sighting, the hotel also boasts inviting outdoor hot tubs that allow for a tranquil evening under the stunning night sky. For an unforgettable experience, be sure to visit the on-site observatory where knowledgeable astronomers are on hand to lead you on a journey through the magnificent Northern Lights.

3. Höfn

Höfn, situated in the southeastern region of Iceland, is a prime location for observing the mesmerizing Northern Lights. Just a quick journey from Höfn will take you to Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon, where enormous ice chunks from the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier drift in the sea, setting the perfect stage for your aurora-gazing adventure. The neighboring Icy Beach is also a favored destination for snapping breathtaking shots of the Northern Lights.

4. Skógar

Located in the southern region of Iceland, Skógar is a quaint town known for its breathtaking Skógafoss waterfall. This beautiful waterfall faces towards the south and provides an exceptional viewpoint for viewing the Northern Lights. The cascading water below adds to the magical display of lights, making it a truly mesmerizing sight. If you happen to visit during a full moon, you may also be lucky enough to witness a moon-bow, a stunning rainbow created by the moonlight reflecting off the spray of the waterfall.

5. Snaefellsnes Peninsula

The Snaefellsnes peninsula, located just a short drive away from Reykjavik, is a secluded and pristine destination with minimal light pollution. This untouched wilderness is the perfect setting for experiencing the Northern Lights, and offers a range of accommodation options such as the luxurious Budir Hotel and the cozy Guesthouse Hof. Whether you opt to stay in one of these lodgings or venture out to admire the raw beauty of the peninsula, you will undoubtedly be enchanted by the spectacular auroras.

Iceland Northern Lights Tours

For those who would rather entrust the planning and execution to professionals, there are multiple tour selections offered in Iceland that are dedicated to tours focused on the Northern Lights. These tours will bring you to optimal viewing spots, guaranteeing the greatest opportunity to experience the captivating display of lights. Some notable tour companies in Iceland include:

1. Gray Line’s Northern Lights Tour

Experience the magic of the Northern Lights with Gray Line’s tour, which immerses travelers in the remote corners of the Icelandic countryside, far from any interfering city lights. Each day, the tour takes guests to carefully selected destinations with optimal conditions for catching a glimpse of the breathtaking auroras. It’s worth noting that thermal suits and boots are not included, so remember to bundle up before setting off on your adventure.

2. Reykjavík Excursions

Reykjavík Excursions provides a selection of tours designed for viewing the magnificent Northern Lights. These tours, lasting between three to five hours, take you to different locations depending on the aurora forecast, guaranteeing the best chances of seeing the lights. Although thermal suits and boots are not included, the expert guides will ensure you have a truly unforgettable experience.

When embarking on a tour to see the Northern Lights, it is important to remember that these lights are a natural occurrence and may not always follow a predictable pattern. It is essential to maintain patience and determination, as the lights may only be visible for a brief period or not at all. Make sure to dress warmly, have a camera handy to capture the enchanting sights, and be prepared to be amazed by the stunning beauty of the Northern Lights.