Iceland is one of the best places in the world to witness the magical dance of the northern lights, also known as the aurora borealis. These colorful streaks of green, pink, and purple light up the night sky and create a truly unforgettable experience.
Timing plays a big role if you're planning a trip to Iceland to see this natural wonder. Let’s explore when and how you can catch this mesmerizing display.
What Causes the Northern Lights?
The northern lights occur due to interactions between solar wind particles and Earth’s magnetic field. These particles, primarily electrons and protons, collide with gases in the atmosphere, such as oxygen and nitrogen, releasing energy in the form of light.
The colors of the auroras depend on the type of gas involved and the altitude of the collisions:
- Green: Green is the most common color caused by oxygen molecules about 100 kilometers above the Earth.
- Red: A rare hue, also from oxygen, but at much higher altitudes.
- Purple and Blue: Produced by nitrogen and usually seen along the edges of the auroras.
Iceland’s location just below the Arctic Circle makes it an ideal place to see this phenomenon, but timing and preparation are crucial.
The Best Time of Year to See the Northern Lights
The northern lights are most visible during Iceland’s darker months, roughly from late September to mid-April. During this time, the nights are long enough to create the perfect conditions for viewing.
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September and October
- Advantages: Early autumn offers a great mix of mild temperatures and long nights. The weather is less harsh compared to the winter months, which can make outdoor excursions more enjoyable.
- Challenges: The weather can be unpredictable, with sudden rain or clouds covering the skies.
- What to Expect: If the skies are clear, you might catch the northern lights alongside Iceland's autumn landscapes, which include vibrant foliage and quiet rural areas.
November to February
- Advantages: These months are peak viewing times because the nights are the longest of the year. In December and January, you get almost 20 hours of darkness, maximizing your chances of spotting the auroras.
- Challenges: This period brings Iceland’s coldest and stormiest weather, which can sometimes make travel tricky. Roads might be icy, and cloud cover could obstruct the skies.
- What to Expect: If you’re lucky with clear skies, you can witness some of the brightest displays. Many tours are available during these months, offering guided excursions to remote areas with minimal light pollution.
March and April
- Advantages: As spring approaches, the days start getting longer, but the nights are still long enough for northern lights viewing until mid-April. The weather begins to improve, and temperatures become slightly warmer.
- Challenges: By late April, daylight hours dominate, reducing opportunities to see the lights.
- What to Expect: March often brings strong solar activity, making it one of the best months for aurora hunting.
Why Summer Isn’t Ideal
Darkness is essential for viewing the northern lights. Even the brightest auroras can be hard to see against a twilight sky. Iceland’s location just below the Arctic Circle means it experiences long hours of darkness during the winter, creating ideal conditions for aurora spotting.
During the summer months (late May to early August), Iceland experiences the midnight sun, where daylight lasts almost 24 hours. While this phenomenon is worth experiencing, it makes seeing the northern lights nearly impossible.
Key Factors That Impact Visibility
Clouds are the biggest obstacle to seeing the northern lights. A clear night sky is a must for viewing, and Iceland’s weather can be highly unpredictable. You might experience clear skies one moment and a snowstorm the next.
Tips for Dealing with Weather:
- Check Aurora and Weather Forecasts: Use tools like the Icelandic Meteorological Office’s aurora forecast to monitor solar activity and cloud cover.
- Be Flexible: Since the weather can change quickly, keep your schedule open for nighttime excursions.
- Stay in Different Locations: If possible, spend time in various parts of Iceland to increase your chances of clear skies. The south coast, north Iceland, and west Iceland often have different weather patterns.
Avoiding Light Pollution
The northern lights are best viewed away from city lights. While Reykjavik offers occasional glimpses of the auroras, you’ll have a much better experience in remote areas with little to no light pollution.
Top Locations to See the Northern Lights:
- Thingvellir National Park: Located within the Golden Circle, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a fantastic spot for photography of northern lights.
- Vatnajökull National Park: This vast park offers numerous dark-sky areas for viewing, with dramatic glaciers and mountains as a backdrop.
- Westfjords: Far from the hustle and bustle, the Westfjords provide unmatched darkness and tranquility.
- North Iceland: Places like Akureyri and Lake Myvatn are popular for aurora hunters looking for scenic surroundings.
- Reykjanes Peninsula: Close to the capital but far enough from light pollution, this region is easily accessible.
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Best Practices for Aurora Hunting
Here are some tips to make your Northern Lights adventure successful:
- Dress Warmly: Icelandic winters can be freezing, especially at night. Wear thermal layers, windproof jackets, and insulated boots.
- Bring the Right Equipment: A good camera with manual settings, a sturdy tripod, and a wide-angle lens are ideal for capturing the auroras. Use a remote shutter release or self-timer to avoid shaky images.
- Be Patient: The northern lights don’t follow a strict schedule. You might have to wait several hours, so bring snacks, a hot drink, and a blanket.
- Avoid Bright Lights: Let your eyes adjust to the darkness for better viewing. If you use a flashlight, cover it with red cellophane to preserve night vision.
Popular Northern Lights Tours
While it’s possible to hunt for the auroras on your own, joining a guided tour can make the experience easier and more enjoyable. Tour operators know the best locations and have experience reading aurora forecasts. Options range from standard bus tours to more adventurous super jeep excursions.
Seasonal Highlights for Aurora Viewing
Here’s a quick breakdown of what each season offers:
- Autumn (September–October): Milder weather, fewer tourists, and beautiful fall colors.
- Winter (November–February): Long nights, frequent sightings, but challenging weather.
- Spring (March–April): Strong solar activity, improving weather, and opportunities to pair aurora hunting with other springtime activities.
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Myths and Legends of the Northern Lights
The northern lights have inspired myths and stories for centuries. In Icelandic folklore, the auroras were thought to be reflections of light from the shields of Valkyries, mythical female warriors. Other tales suggested the lights could help predict the future or influence fertility.
Today, while we understand the science behind the northern lights, they still evoke feelings of wonder and awe.
Combining Northern Lights Viewing with Other Activities
Make the most of your trip by pairing aurora hunting with other Icelandic experiences:
- Soak in Hot Springs: Relax in geothermal pools like the Blue Lagoon or the Secret Lagoon while keeping an eye on the skies.
- Explore the Golden Circle: Visit iconic attractions like Geysir, Gullfoss Waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park during the day and chase the auroras at night.
- Visit Ice Caves: These natural wonders are a winter-only attraction that pairs beautifully with northern lights tours.
- Go Glacier Hiking: During the day, explore Iceland’s glaciers, then head out for aurora spotting after dark.
Packing for a Northern Lights Trip
Iceland’s weather can be extreme, so packing the right gear is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Warm Clothing: Thermal layers, fleece, and waterproof outerwear.
- Accessories: Gloves, a hat, and a scarf to protect against the cold wind.
- Footwear: Insulated, waterproof boots with good grip.
- Camera Gear: A tripod and a good camera are must-haves for capturing the auroras.
Why Iceland Stands Out for Northern Lights
Iceland’s unique combination of accessibility, natural beauty, and dark skies makes it one of the best destinations for aurora viewing. Whether you’re standing by a quiet fjord, hiking across a snowy plain, or soaking in a hot spring, the northern lights add a magical element to any Icelandic adventure.
With some planning and flexibility, you can experience this breathtaking phenomenon and create memories that will last a lifetime.
FAQs
When is the northern lights season in Iceland?
The best time to see the northern lights in Iceland is from late September to mid-April. During this season, the long nights and clear skies create optimal conditions for aurora viewing. The peak months are around the winter solstice in December and January, offering the darkest nights of the year.
How do I increase my chances during a northern lights hunt?
Head to remote locations with as little light pollution as possible to improve your chances, such as South Iceland or areas near Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. Monitor aurora activity forecasts and weather conditions to find clear skies. Tours, including super jeep tours, often take you to prime spots for viewing.
Are there vacations or packages that guarantee you will see the northern lights?
Some tour operators offer northern lights vacations, including a wake-up service if the auroras appear at night. While no one can guarantee sightings, spending a few days in Iceland during the northern lights season increases your chances. Look for packages that include remote accommodations and expert guides.
