Seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland – Best Time and Places

Your chances of viewing the Northern Lights in Iceland are very high, thanks to an 8-month aurora season, long hours of nightfall during the winter, and low light pollution across most of the island.

Iceland is one of the prime locations globally for viewing the Northern Lights, which is why I travel there each September for photographing the aurora borealis. The incredible diversity of spectacular landscapes – waterfalls, beaches, mountains, cliffs, rock formations, glaciers, and more – creates amazing photographic opportunities for capturing the auroras hovering overhead.

Still, there’s no point going to see the Northern Lights without understanding the ideal time periods to visit Iceland for observing the Northern Lights or the preferred locations in Iceland to view the Northern Lights. This guide will provide you all the necessary information to be in the suitable place at the suitable moment to see an unforgettable Northern Lights exhibition in Iceland.

Ready to discover how to view the northern lights in Iceland? Let`s get underway!

• Prime moment to view the Northern Lights in Iceland
• Prime locales to view the Northern Lights in Iceland
• Northern Lights tours in Iceland`s north
• Top Images of the Northern Lights in Iceland
• Calendar and Map of Northern Lights Appearances in Iceland

Best time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland

The aurora viewing season in northern Iceland spans from late August to mid-April, so you`ll have good odds of witnessing the Northern Lights throughout this period. The prime time of year to view Northern Lights in Iceland, though, is during September and March. Solar activity increases during both months, creating a much higher probability of observing an aurora display.

In addition, the months of September and March typically have warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours than other fall and winter months, so you`ll feel more comfortable outside and be able to see and do more during the day. The weather is also generally less cloudy during these times, meaning improved visibility for auroras.

The prime viewing months for the northern lights in Iceland largely correspond with autumn and winter, when nightfall comes earliest and darkness lasts longer, presenting the optimal conditions for witnessing the natural light display across much of the globe. The longer and darker the nights are, the higher the chances of an aurora sighting.

During most of the spring and summer, it’s just not possible to perceive the aurora borealis in Iceland, since the days are long, and the nights don’t always get dark enough.

What is the best month to see the Northern Lights in Iceland?

These are the most suited months for viewing the Northern Lights in Iceland:

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• September: Throughout the month of September, evenings commence to become increasingly longer in duration. The atmospheric conditions are not as frigid as those witnessed in late autumn or winter, and solar phenomena typically demonstrates high levels of productivity. This is the rationale underpinning September being regarded as one of the preeminent months to tour Iceland for spotting the Northern Lights.

• October: The first snow covers most of the island, bringing clouds and low sight for aurora shows. Solar movement is usually high amid the first two weeks of the month, even so the temperature is less frigid than in winter`s depths.

• November: The ice and snow this month signal the beginning of winter in Iceland. The weather in November can be somewhat unpredictable, but the number of hours of darkness increases, raising your chances of seeing an aurora display.

• December: The lengthy hours devoid of daylight and the minor number of sightseers on the island at this period of the year render December an agreeable month for aurora viewing in Iceland. Bear in mind that temperatures will be bitterly cold, so prepare to bundle up.

• January: If you wish to capture Iceland Northern Lights photos with snow, this is the ideal time to visit Iceland. The island is in the depths of the Arctic winter, so you’ll enjoy long, dark nights, perfect for viewing aurora displays.

• February: February remains quite cold and snowy, and many smaller waterfalls are frozen. Tourism starts to pick up, as more visitors come to photograph the Northern Lights in Iceland.

• March: Winter’s frozen precipitation can linger into March, but toward the end of the month, the vernal equinox brings heightened solar activity and hence really good possibilities of auroral displays. There can be quite a few visitors on the island, but March is most certainly one of the best months for Northern Lights in Iceland.

• April: The number of daylight hours increases drastically, and the island’s atmosphere changes dramatically with the spring thaw. You’ll be more likely to see an aurora display during the first half of April than during the second half.

Best places to see the Northern Lights in Iceland

In summary, these are the top places to see the Northern Lights in Iceland:

1. Jökulsárlón: A unique glacial lagoon locale for viewing the northern lights in Iceland.
2. Skógafoss: Witness the Northern Lights in Iceland above a stunning waterfall.
3. Stokksnes: The best beach for viewing and photographing the Iceland aurora borealis.
4. Kirkjufell: An iconic mountain that’s perfect for taking dramatic Iceland Northern Lights pictures.
5. Hvítserkur: This incredibly arched rocky formation, also known as “The Rhino”, is a location unlike any other for Northern Lights viewing in Iceland.
6. Goðafoss: The northern facing section of this waterfall means you`ll be perfectly aligned to witness a vivid aurora display.
7. Valahnúkamöl: Striking cliffs by the sea where you can see the Northern Lights in total solitude.
8. Reykjavik: The best city in Iceland to witness Northern Lights.

Ultimately, the entire island of Iceland is perfect for seeing the Northern Lights since it’s situated so far north and most of the island is sparsely populated, signifying low light pollution. Even in Iceland’s capital city, Reykjavik, you can see the Northern Lights when the display is especially large and intense.

1. Jökulsárlón

Visiting Jökulsárlón is an encounter unlike any other. This profound lagoon is filled with freely floating icebergs and water from a nearby melting glacier, Breiðamerkurjökull. Indeed, one of the best things to do in Iceland involves taking this boat tour around the lake to behold Breiðamerkurjökull in close proximity.

In addition to being a stunning and extraordinary natural phenomenon, Jökulsárlón also serves as one of the most ideally suited locations in Iceland for viewing the Aurora Borealis. Given that Jökulsárlon is situated within Vatnajökull National Park, it is situated far away from heavily populated areas experiencing virtually no light pollution, meaning any displays of the northern lights would be perceptible with good visibility.

Additionally, seeing the vivid hues of an Iceland aurora mirrored in the lagoon and icebergs is both a breathtaking encounter in person and an ideal shot for a Northern Lights photograph.

2. Skógafoss

One of Iceland’s most iconic cascades,Skógafoss offers prime conditions for seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland. As it faces north, the waterfall positions itself optimally for auroral displays which usually initiate from the north. Moreover, Skógafoss`s remote site close to the Eyjafjallajökull volcano implies no artificial light, just natural darkness.

The downside to Skógafoss being such a renowned site for observing the aurora borealis displays in Iceland is that many photographers flock there when conditions are favorable for witnessing such a spectacle. The crowds and flashes from cameras can distracting and make the Northern Lights more difficult to see, so consider exploring an alternate spot if you prefer a calmer viewing experience of the Iceland Northern Lights.

An advantage, though, is that one of Iceland’s best Northern Lights hotels,Hotel Ranga, is situated quite near to Skógafoss. This lodging, which is also one of the best Northern Lights hotels in the world, has an observatory for stargazing and offers alerts for auroras. The hotel even turns off all of its lights during an aurora display so that guests can have the best viewing experience possible.

3. Stokksnes

The landscape surrounding the Vestrahorn Mountains, more popularly known as Stokksnes, combines the staggering beauty of towering mountains with the bleak splendor of a black sand beach and dunes. As with most of Iceland’s natural features, Stokksnes benefits from extremely low light pollution, which is ideal for viewing the aurora.

If you have a passion for capturing visually engaging photographs of the Northern Lights in Iceland, you will appreciate seeing the stark contrast between the dark landscape below and the bright, dancing lights above.

For those seeking to make their Iceland aurora hunting even more practical, staying nearby at the Aurora Cabins in Höfn may be desirable. Guests will have an private cabin all to themselves, and on nights when venturing to Stokksnes is undesirable, spectacular aurora displays can be witnessed from the comfort of the cabin’s deck.

4. Kirkjufell

Iceland’s most iconic peak, Kirkjufell, or “Church Mountain,” derives its name from its striking cylindrical form, said to resemble a church. Whatever the mountain`s shape may suggest to you, its northern orientation means you`ll easily be able to view Icelandic northern lights shows when they occur, even if the displays are not particularly vibrant.

While Kirkjufell offers scenic Northern Lights views, photography there as a nonprofessional can be tricky due to illumination from nearby roads, parking areas and other photographers` camera flashes. To capture quality Northern Lights images in Iceland, aim to visit Kirkjufell during less crowded periods or nights to avoid jockeying for space with additional photographers.

One highly recommended lodging in Iceland`s Westfjords is Kirkjufell Guesthouse and Apartments. This cozy accommodation is merely a 12-minute walk from the shoreline, and if the northern lights appear, you won`t even need to leave the guesthouse grounds to enjoy stellar views.

5. Hvítserkur

Hvítserkur, an arched basalt rock formation rising from the sea also known as “The Rhino,” is another of the prime locations in Iceland to view the Northern Lights. This landmark faces north, providing a high probability of seeing developing auroral displays.

Beyond that, the distinctive structure of this geological feature and its coastal position will create exceptional opportunities for capturing hypnotic auroral illumination over Iceland. Whether framed by the arches or mirrored on the sea, no more sublime vista could be found elsewhere.

6. Goðafoss

Escape the crowds at Skógafoss and head to an equally beautiful waterfall, Goðafoss, to see the Northern Lights in Iceland. Like many of the other best locations to observe Northern Lights in Iceland, Goðafoss faces north, which implies you’ll be looking precisely in the proper direction to see an Iceland aurora display.

Godafoss is also one of the largest waterfalls in Iceland, so its sheer width and height are breathtaking. In fact, if you watch an aurora display from Godafoss, it may be difficult to decide which is more beautiful: the waterfall or the Northern Lights. Either way, you’re in for a visual treat.

A superb lodging in the locale is Hotel Kjarnalundur in Akureyri. You’ll savor panoramic perspectives of the surrounding area as well as a sauna and on-site restaurant.

7. Valahnúkamöl

At Valahnúkamöl, you’ll find everything from a rocky seaside, dramatic cliffs to striking rock formations rising from the sea.

This spectacular seaside location is conveniently situated on the Reykjanes peninsula, near Keflavík (where the international airport is located) and not too far from Reykjavik. It’s therefore easy to access while sufficiently removed from Reykjavik that light contamination shouldn’t impact your Iceland aurora viewing experience.

If planning to stay in the area, book accommodations at Hotel Berg near Keflavík Airport. Not only will you be near the airport, but you can also unwind in the rooftop pool and enjoy views of the adjacent marina.

8. Reykjavik

Viewing the Northern Lights in Reykjavik is conceivably possible but not guaranteed. The light pollution in Iceland’s money city means that it’s not the best place for Iceland Aurora Borealis watching. If an aurora show is notably strong, though, there are particular spots within and around the city where you should manage to see it.

The “Sun Voyager” sculpture is situated only a few minutes away from the city center and makes an eye-catching foreground for Iceland Northern Lights photographs. Be sure to look towards the north coast if there is a promising aurora forecast. Þúfa, a nearby outdoor art installation that also faces north, is another great place to see the Northern Lights in Reykjavik.

Another one of the best places to see the Northern Lights in Reykjavik is the revolving glass restaurant, Perlan. This restaurant is in a prime location; it’s close enough to the city center that it’s convenient to get to but set above and apart from the rest of Reykjavik on Öskjuhlíð Hill so that it’s not as affected by light pollution.

Of course, you can always take a Northern Lights tour from Reykjavik, which will bring you out of the city to more isolated spots with better chances of aurora viewing.

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Iceland Northern Lights tours

Scheduling an Iceland Northern Lights tour efficiently handles the difficulties of chasing the aurora borealis yourself. Rather than figuring out locations and schedules independently, an experienced local guide takes care of all the planning aspects for you.

One convenient approach to chasing the aurora is booking a Northern Lights vacation package. However, if you lack the time or energy for a multi-day tour, there are numerous one-day Northern Lights tours in Iceland. Many tours depart from Reykjavik, making them simple to join. Our top selections for Iceland Northern Lights tours are:

• Northern Lights Bus Tour departing from Reykjavik
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• A combined tour that features both the Golden Circle attractions and a search for the Northern Lights from Reykjavik.
• Group Premium Northern Lights Tour from Reykjavik
• Evening trip to see the Northern Lights featuring warm drinks and pastries from Reykjavik

Our article on the top Northern Lights tours from Reykjavik provides a more comprehensive list of aurora tours if you want additional choices.

We also run a Northern Lights Photo Tour in Iceland each September since that’s the best time to see the aurora in Iceland. If you want to uncover the optimal locations around Iceland for aurora viewing, chase and photograph the Northern Lights every night, and learn more about photography with a group of like-minded and passionate photographers, this is the excursion for you. It’s sure to be an experience you’ll never forget!

Note: If photography is not truly your strong interest, irrespective of your skills or level, this trip will not be the appropriate choice. The tour centers around photography and specifically targets avid photographers .

Best images of Northern Lights in Iceland

If you’ve traveled to see the lights appearing in northern parts of Iceland at night, you’ll likely want to capture the dazzling display permanently, so you remember it always. My guide about taking pictures of the Lights Appearing in Northern Parts will provide suggestions concerning equipment, composition structure, and camera settings so you can acquire the best possible documentation of the dazzling display appearing in northern parts of Iceland at night.

To furnish you a rudimentary conception of how to photograph superb auroras, under is a general outline of steps you can pursue. If you necessitate inspiration, this gallery accommodates all of the finest imagery of Northern Gleams in Iceland I have taken.

How to photograph the Northern Lights in Iceland

Follow these steps to photograph the auroral displays commonly seen in Iceland:

1. Prepare your equipment. The most significant action you can take is ensuring you have a quality camera to photograph the Northern Lights.
2. Mount your tripod.
3. Set your focus so you get sharp images.
4. Photograph in RAW format if editing pictures later is desired.
5. Adjust the sensitivity parameter according to your camera sensor.
6. Completely open the aperture of your lens to capture more light for better results.
7. Set different shutter times.
8. Consider arranging elements when recording the aurora together with incredible Icelandic scenery.

Lastly, as mentioned earlier, if you wish to capture photographs of the Northern Lights in Iceland with us next September, join our Iceland photography tour!

Iceland Northern Lights calendar and aurora map

Below, you’ll find a chart of historical data for the Northern Lights in Iceland in 2021, with Reykjavik as a reference.

*KP is a value linked to the Aurora forecast and ranges from 0 to 9. To see the Northern Lights in Iceland, you usually require a KP of 3 or higher. You can find out more about aurora prediction here.

This Iceland Northern Lights calendar can be used as a reference, however the KP level and cloud cover, both important factors for seeing auroras, vary each year and are not depicted.

If you want to obtain information regarding the cloud and aurora forecast in Iceland for the present day, I would suggest checking the website of the Iceland Meteorological Office.

Check the map below to find all the locations to view the Northern Lights in Iceland. You can also download it from our article on tourist maps of Iceland.

The premier places to view the Northern Lights in Iceland are symbolized in green, while Northern Lights accomodations in Iceland are denoted in red.

I hope you enjoy your time in Iceland and you capture some incredible images of the aurora borealis! If you need more information or have a concern, don’t hesitate to leave me a comment below. Happy aurora chasing!