Iceland Northern Lights - Best Tours and Viewing Seasons
Overview: Discover the Magic of Iceland Northern Lights
Iceland, known as the land of fire and ice, is also known as one of the best place to see Northern Lights. The Iceland Northern Lights occur when charged particles from the sun interact with the Earth’s magnetic field, resulting in waves of colorful light that illuminate the Arctic skies.
Due to its location just below the Arctic Circle, Iceland is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights. Its dark skies and minimal light pollution make it an ideal destination for witnessing this celestial display.
Beyond the lights, Iceland’s volcanic landscapes, geothermal hot springs, and vibrant culture make it an all-around top choice for nature enthusiasts. This guide explores how to make the most of your Iceland Northern Lights adventure, including tips on tours, seasons, and the best places to visit.
What Makes Iceland the Best Place to See the Northern Lights?
Iceland’s proximity to the Arctic Circle and its vast areas of darkness make it a prime destination for viewing the Northern Lights. Unlike other places, Iceland offers a variety of landscapes, from glaciers and waterfalls to black sand beaches, providing stunning backdrops for the Iceland Northern Lights. The country’s geographic location ensures that visitors have a good chance of seeing the lights during the peak northern lights Iceland season.
Aside from its optimal viewing conditions, Iceland is home to various tours designed specifically to enhance the Northern Lights experience. These tours often include knowledgeable guides who provide insights into the science behind the Aurora Borealis, making the Iceland Northern Lights tour both educational and thrilling. Whether you prefer small group excursions, private jeep tours, or larger bus tours, there are plenty of options to fit your preferences and budget.
Top Spots for Viewing the Iceland Northern Lights
When it comes to finding the best place to see Northern Lights in Iceland, there are several prime locations to consider. Each offers unique landscapes and viewing conditions, making your Northern Lights experience even more memorable.
Þingvellir National Park: Located about 45 minutes from Reykjavik, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the best places to see the Iceland Northern Lights. The park’s wide-open spaces and lack of artificial light make it an ideal spot for aurora viewing. It’s also a historical and geological wonder, adding depth to your nighttime adventure.
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon: This iconic glacial lagoon on Iceland’s southeast coast is not only one of the country’s most picturesque locations but also a fantastic spot to witness the Northern Lights. The floating icebergs and tranquil waters create a surreal setting for the dancing lights above.
Vik and the South Coast: The small village of Vik, located along Iceland’s southern coast, is famous for its black sand beaches and dramatic cliffs. During the northern lights Iceland season, this area becomes one of the best places to see the auroras away from city lights.
Kirkjufell Mountain: Often referred to as the “most photographed mountain in Iceland,” Kirkjufell on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula is a top spot for capturing the Northern Lights. Its unique shape and proximity to waterfalls make it a favorite among photographers.
Reykjavik: While Iceland’s capital may not be the darkest spot for aurora viewing, it offers several vantage points like the Grótta Lighthouse and Oskjuhlid Hill. Reykjavik also serves as the starting point for many guided Iceland Northern Lights tours, making it convenient for travelers.
Flight Times
To begin your adventure, it's helpful to know the approximate flight times from major cities around the world to Reykjavik, Iceland:
From New York, USA: About 5.5 hours
From London, UK: About 3 hours
From Los Angeles, USA: About 9 hours
From Berlin, Germany: About 3.5 hours
From Tokyo, Japan: About 11.5 hours
Iceland is surprisingly accessible, and with its position as a major layover hub for transatlantic flights, you can often find direct flights to Reykjavik at competitive rates.
Precautions On Your Iceland Northern Lights tour
Iceland's beauty is matched by its often unpredictable and extreme weather conditions. It’s essential to be prepared for rapid changes in weather, especially when venturing into rural areas or the countryside.
Dress in layers: Icelandic weather can change dramatically within a single day. It is not uncommon to experience sunshine, rain, wind, and snow in the span of a few hours. Wearing layers allows you to adjust to the conditions quickly and comfortably.
Beware of slippery conditions: Many of Iceland’s most iconic sites, such as waterfalls and glaciers, can be hazardous due to slippery paths or icy patches. Make sure to wear proper footwear with good grip to prevent slips and falls.
Stay informed: Always check weather and road conditions before setting out, especially during winter when storms can make travel hazardous.
Preparing for Your Iceland Northern Lights Trip
Packing the right gear is essential for a successful Iceland northern lights trip, especially given the unpredictable weather during the northern lights Iceland season.
Essential Items to Pack
Warm, Waterproof Clothing: The Iceland northern lights season is marked by cold temperatures and variable weather. Pack thermal layers, a warm jacket, and waterproof outerwear to stay comfortable during long nights outdoors.
Sturdy Hiking Boots: Much of Iceland’s terrain is rugged and rocky. Durable boots with good traction are necessary for exploring safely.
Camera with Tripod: Capturing the northern lights requires long-exposure photography, so bring a good camera and a sturdy tripod.
Portable Hand Warmers: These are essential for keeping your hands warm while waiting for the aurora to appear.
Snacks and Hot Drinks: Long hours of waiting can be tiring, so pack some snacks and a thermos of hot tea or coffee.
Day 1-2: Reykjavik
Begin your journey in Reykjavik, Iceland’s vibrant capital. The city is a blend of modernity and tradition, offering everything from innovative cuisine to rich cultural experiences. It’s also widely known as one of the best place to see Northern Lights in the world.
Explore the city: Reykjavik is compact and easy to navigate, with attractions such as the Hallgrímskirkja church, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Climb to the top of the tower for a panoramic view of the city, the mountains, and the sea.
Try Icelandic cuisine: Reykjavik is home to a burgeoning food scene. Sample traditional Icelandic dishes such as lamb soup, skyr (a yogurt-like dairy product), and the freshest seafood straight from the North Atlantic.
Day 3-4: Golden Circle Tour
The Golden Circle is one of Iceland’s most popular sightseeing routes, encompassing some of the country’s most stunning natural landmarks.
Visit Þingvellir National Park: This UNESCO World Heritage site is not only historically significant but also geologically unique. It’s where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet, creating a rift valley that is both beautiful and scientifically fascinating.
See the Gullfoss Waterfall: Known as the "Golden Waterfall," Gullfoss is a two-tiered waterfall that plummets into a canyon, creating a spectacular display of nature’s power.
Explore the Geysir geothermal area: Witness the famous Strokkur geyser, which erupts every few minutes, shooting boiling water up to 40 meters into the air. The geothermal landscape is otherworldly, with steam vents and bubbling hot springs dotting the area.
Day 5-6: Journey to Vik
Head to the southern coast and the charming town of Vik, known for its black sand beaches, towering cliffs, and waterfalls.
Visit Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls: Seljalandsfoss is unique in that you can walk behind the waterfall, offering a perspective unlike any other. Skógafoss, on the other hand, is one of Iceland's largest and most powerful waterfalls, surrounded by legends of hidden treasures buried behind its cascade.
Evening Northern Lights hunt: Your journey to Vik also brings you closer to some of the best locations for spotting the Northern Lights. Join a guided tour to increase your chances of witnessing this celestial phenomenon. Tour guides use real-time data to track the lights, taking you to the perfect spots to see them dance across the night sky.
Day 7: Relaxation and Departure
After days of exploration and adventure, it’s time to unwind before heading home.
Relax in the Blue Lagoon: A visit to the Blue Lagoon is the perfect way to end your trip. The mineral-rich, geothermal waters are known for their healing properties, making this a rejuvenating experience for both body and mind.
Prepare for departure: After your day of relaxation, it’s time to return to Reykjavik for your flight home. Be sure to reflect on the incredible natural beauty you’ve experienced in Iceland, from the dazzling Northern Lights to the serene Blue Lagoon.
Best Time to Witness The Iceland Northern Lights
The best time to witness the Iceland Northern Lights is between September and March. This period, known as the northern lights Iceland season, offers long, dark nights that are essential for viewing the auroras. During this time, Iceland experiences up to 20 hours of darkness, providing ample opportunities for Northern Lights sightings. The colder weather also results in clearer skies, which enhances the visibility of the lights.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that seeing the Northern Lights is never guaranteed, as it depends on factors like solar activity and weather conditions. Patience, flexibility, and a bit of luck are necessary when planning a trip during the northern lights Iceland season. For the best experience, it’s recommended to plan your visit for at least a week, allowing multiple nights to increase your chances of catching a glimpse of the auroras.
Local Tips for Viewing the Iceland Northern Lights
Check the Aurora Forecast: Before heading out on your Iceland Northern Lights adventure, check the aurora forecast and cloud cover. Websites like Vedur.is provide real-time updates on aurora activity, helping you plan your night.
Be Patient: The Iceland Northern Lights can be elusive, so patience is key. Even if the forecast predicts high activity, the auroras may still take time to appear. Stay warm and be prepared to wait for a while.
Avoid Light Pollution: For the best viewing experience, head to locations with minimal light pollution. Even in remote areas, use red flashlight filters to minimize light interference.
Choose a Moonless Night: The moon’s brightness can diminish the visibility of the Northern Lights. Plan your trip around new moon phases for optimal viewing conditions.
Book a Flexible Tour: Many Iceland Northern Lights tours offer free rebooking if you don’t see the auroras on your first attempt. This gives you more opportunities to witness the lights without additional costs.
Conclusion: The Magic of the Iceland Northern Lights
The Iceland Northern Lights offer a truly magical experience, combining the beauty of Iceland’s landscapes with the wonder of the Aurora Borealis. From exploring Reykjavik and taking guided tours to standing beneath the auroras in remote locations, witnessing the Iceland Northern Lights is a journey you won’t forget.
Whether you’re exploring the best places to see Northern Lights or joining an Iceland Northern Lights tour during the peak northern lights Iceland season, this adventure promises an unforgettable blend of natural beauty and cultural discovery.
