The northern lights are a fascinating natural phenomenon, from the science behind what triggers the lights to the ancient folktales surrounding them.
If you think you’ve missed your chance to see the Icelandic Northern lights this year, think again. There is still time to witness the spectacular natural beauty of the aurora borealis before the season ends in April.
Do I still have a good chance to see the Northern Lights?
You are most likely to see the northern lights between October and March each year where they are regularly visible, but the full season runs to April, so there is still plenty of time. Darkness is crucial, so 23:00 to 2:00am is the key viewing time for the phenomenon.
Thankfully, the gulf stream results in Iceland being significantly warmer than its Nordic neighbours, but ensure you are fully prepared for Northern Winter weather before you head off on any adventures.
Enjoying the wonder of the Northern lights can begin as soon as you board the plane, if you’re lucky enough to be travelling on Icelandair’s Hekla Aurora aircraft. Images of Iceland’s winter lights are wrapped all along the fuselage, while the mood-lighting inside the cabin is uniquely programmed to reflect a Northern Lights experience.
Where are the best places in Iceland to see the northern lights?
Outside the cities, the sky is (literally) the limit for aurora hunting. There are not many cities in the sparsely populated countryside, so dark skies are easy to find. Favourite aurora spots for photographers include Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon on the South Coast and Kirkjufell mountain on Snæfellsnes peninsula in West Iceland.
However, rest assured that the brightest auroras can be seen from cities and even through thin clouds. In Reykjavík, favourite spots to view the northern lights include Grótta lighthouse, at the westernmost point of the city, and Öskjuhlíð hill. A bit further outside town, the Heiðmörk forest area is easily reached by car and escapes the city lights, and the lake Kleifarvatn area offers a scenic drive to dark skies.
Planning a trip to Iceland for the northern lights
Whether you decide to rent a car and go aurora hunting on your own or join a tour, make sure to venture a little off the beaten track and find a good spot to enjoy the show. Keep in mind that seeing the northern lights does require the right timing, location and meteorological conditions as well as a good dose of patience and luck, especially when you are coming to the end of the season.
For those after a seamless trip featuring all that Iceland has to offer, Icelandair’s northern lights vacation package includes flights, accommodation, and a number of guided tours.
A guided tour offers many benefits, including:
- An aurora expert to give you the best chance at seeing the lights
- Someone else will be able to do the driving!
- You will be taken to places and see landscapes and vistas your will not have otherwise seen places
- Able to move to where the forecast is most favourable, and the cloud cover is minimal
If you’re flying transatlantic this Northern Lights season, why not make the most out of your holiday and stopover in Iceland before continuing on to one of Icelandair’s many network destinations at no additional airfare. Read more on Icelandair’s stopover option here, including how to make the most out of your stopover experience with ready-made itineraries.
Looking for an amazing place to stay in Iceland? Whether you’re planning a cozy retreat under the northern lights or a luxurious escape in Reykjavik, finding the perfect hotel can make all the difference. From boutique stays to grand resorts, Iceland offers accommodations to suit every traveler’s style. Click here to explore the best hotels in Iceland and start planning your unforgettable adventure.
