Table of Contents
Introduction
Known for its stunning displays of colorful lights dancing across the night sky, the northern lights, or aurora borealis, is one of nature’s most dazzling spectacles. Iceland has become one of the world’s premier destinations for seeing this astronomical phenomenon. With its proximity to the Arctic Circle, long winter nights, and ample darkness far from city lights, Iceland offers prime conditions for witnessing the magical glow of the aurora borealis. Join me as I explore the practical tips for seeing the lights in Iceland, from the best locations and times to guided tours, photography advice, and what it’s like to finally glimpse these elusive undulating lights glowing overhead. After reading this, Iceland and its northern lights are sure to top your travel bucket list!
When to See the Northern Lights in Iceland
To catch a glimpse of the aurora borealis, visiting Iceland during the optimal season and weather conditions is key. The best viewing months are from late September through mid-April, with the core peak season being the winter months of November to March. During the summertime, Iceland experiences near 24 hours of daylight, making aurora sightings impossible. The long nights of winter, combined with frequent clear and dry weather, make for ideal aurora hunting. Even then, sightings are never guaranteed, as cloud cover or rain can obstruct views on any given night. Flexibility and patience are key! Your best bet is to plan a longer winter trip to maximize your chances.
Best Locations in Iceland to See the Aurora Borealis
With Iceland’s sparse population, the remote countryside offers dark vantage points ideal for aurora viewing. The northern and eastern regions are particularly well-suited for spotting the lights, away from the light pollution of Reykjavik and the popular Golden Circle route. Picturesque towns like Akureyri, Húsavík, and Seyðisfjörður in the Eastfjords offer prime backdrops. Venturing into the vast Vatnajökull National Park in southeast Iceland will reward you with unobstructed views and photography opportunities. Other ideal spots are along the scenic Diamond Circle route in North Iceland, with fewer crowds than the Golden Circle. Wherever you go, seek out wide panoramas facing away from city lights for the best experience.
Tours and Guides for Northern Lights Viewing
Joining a guided northern lights tour can greatly enhance your experience while leaving the planning to experts. Knowledgeable guides choose optimal locations each night and provide informative commentary about the science and folklore of the aurora. Tours by bus or minibus transport groups to ideal viewing spots and provide warm refreshments while you wait for the show. Boat tours offer unique vantage points offshore, letting you look back towards the lights above land. Adventurous visitors can book a super jeep tour to access more remote inland destinations. Guides share photographic tips and supply tripods, while handling the driving so you can fully soak in the dazzling sight.
Photography and Viewing Tips
Photographing the aurora can be tricky but rewarding. Using a tripod provides stability for long exposure shots necessary in low light. Set your camera to manual mode so you can customize settings like shutter speed, ISO, and aperture as needed. Experiment with compositions using foreground elements like mountains, lakes, trees or structures to lend perspective. Patience is required as the lights shift and change, so take your time. To optimize viewing, allow 20-30 minutes for your eyes to adjust to the darkness. Lie on your back or sit in a reclining chair to gaze upward. Slow down, meditate, and take in one of nature’s most humbling and magical displays.
What It’s Like Seeing the Northern Lights
Words can hardly describe the sheer magic of witnessing the northern lights shimmering and dancing overhead. Photographs don’t do the experience justice. In real life, the aurora flows and ripples rapidly in ways cameras cannot capture. Brilliant green waves undulate across the sky, morphing into pink, purple, blue and crimson tones. The motion is mesmerizing – curling, swirling and whipping back and forth like translucent ribbons. Columns of light called solar rays pierce upwards from below the horizon. Watching in awe, you may perceive subtle crackling or rustling sounds. The lights evoke a mystical quality, as if peeking into a celestial realm beyond our world. Observing the aurora can be emotional and spiritually moving, leaving you humbled by nature’s splendor.
Additional Tips for an Aurora Hunting Trip
A successful northern lights outing requires additional preparation and flexibility. Start by monitoring aurora forecasts and cloud cover to assess each night’s visibility. Avoid planning trips during a full moon, when the extra light can make sightings more difficult. Prepare to stay up very late, usually between 10pm and 2am, as this is prime viewing time. Remember to dress as warmly as possible in winter gear and bring hand warmers. Have backup indoor activities planned during your trip in case weather conditions prevent views on a given night. With persistence through the long, frigid nights, you’ll hopefully be rewarded with a dazzling display that exceeds your highest expectations!
Conclusion
A well-planned trip to Iceland offers one of the world’s best opportunities to catch the magical glow of the northern lights. Bundle up, seek out darkness, and get ready for potential life-changing views! The ethereal, colorful dance of the aurora is an experience you’ll never forget and treasure forever. Iceland delivers an unparalleled adventure, complete with natural wonders like glaciers, waterfalls, volcanoes and the elusive lights that shine overhead in the dark polar nights. Don’t miss your chance to see this celestial performance – start planning your northern lights adventure in Iceland today!
5 FAQs About Seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland
What time of day can you see the northern lights in Iceland?
The best viewing time is typically between around 10pm and 2am, when it is completely dark. Sightings before or after this window are less common.
What months are best to see the northern lights in Iceland?
September through mid-April offer the longest nights. Peak season is November to March when skies are often clearest.
What weather conditions are ideal for seeing the aurora?
Clear, dry nights with little or no cloud cover and reduced moonlight yield the highest visibility.
Where in Iceland has the highest chance to see the northern lights?
Northern and eastern Iceland offers ideal viewing, away from light pollution. Towns like Akureyri and Seyðisfjörður are prime spots.
How can I best photograph the northern lights?
Use a tripod, manual camera settings, and experiment with foreground compositions and exposures. Patience is key!