Northern Lights in Iceland – How to See Them, When to Go and the Best Places
Introduction
The Northern Lights are one of the most magical sights on Earth. In Iceland, the aurora often dances across the sky from late August to mid April, creating glowing waves of green, pink and purple light. Whether you want to chase the lights on your own or join a guided tour with local experts, Iceland is one of the best places in the world to see this natural phenomenon.
This guide explains exactly how the Northern Lights work, how to read the forecast, the best months, the best locations and practical tips to increase your chances of seeing them during your trip.
What Are the Northern Lights
The Northern Lights, also called the aurora borealis, are created when charged particles from the sun collide with the Earth’s atmosphere. When these particles reach the magnetic field near the poles, they produce glowing colors that appear in the night sky.
Green is the most common color, but red, purple, blue and pink can appear when the solar activity is strong.
The lights are never guaranteed, but knowing how they form helps you understand when they are most likely to appear.
How the Northern Lights Work
The sun constantly releases energy in the form of solar winds. When these winds reach Earth, they interact with oxygen and nitrogen high in the atmosphere.
Different gases produce different colors.
Oxygen creates green and sometimes red auroras
Nitrogen creates purple or blue tones
Auroras can appear as soft glows, fast-moving waves, or intense pillars of light. They can change shape in seconds, so always keep your eyes on the sky once you spot activity.
Best Time to See the Northern Lights in Iceland
The Northern Lights are visible when the sky is dark and clear. The best season is:
Late August to mid April.
Within this period, the peak months are:
September
October
February
March
These months offer a good balance of long nights and stable weather.
Best Time of Night
Northern Lights often appear between:
21:00 and 02:00
They can show up earlier or later, but these hours give you the highest chance.
Best Places to See the Northern Lights in Iceland
Thingvellir National Park
A dark, open landscape only 40 minutes from Reykjavík. This UNESCO site is one of the top Northern Lights viewing spots in the country.
Grotta Lighthouse in Reykjavík
If you stay in the capital, the Grotta Lighthouse is the best place within the city. It is darker than most areas and right by the ocean.
South Coast
Areas around Vik, Reynisfjara, Skógafoss and Dyrhólaey are excellent for aurora watching. Wide open spaces and low light pollution make these locations very strong options.
Reykjanes Peninsula
The peninsula near the airport has little artificial light. Hot springs, lava fields and cliffs make it a great region for night photography.
North Iceland
Places around Akureyri and Lake Mývatn often have clearer weather than the south. Locations like Goðafoss or the surrounding countryside are fantastic for viewing.
Westfjords
With almost no light pollution, the Westfjords offer some of the darkest skies in Iceland. Ideal for photographers and travelers who want a more remote experience.
How to Read the Northern Lights Forecast
Understanding the aurora forecast is one of the most important steps in seeing the lights.
1. Cloud Cover
Clear skies are more important than the aurora strength.
Use the Icelandic Meteorological Office cloud map:
https://en.vedur.is/weather/forecasts/cloudcover/
Look for areas marked with low or thin clouds.
2. KP Index
The KP index measures solar activity from 0 to 9.
KP 2 to 3 is enough for most of Iceland
KP 4 to 5 gives stronger displays
KP 6 and above can be extremely bright and visible across the whole sky
3. Solar Activity Updates
Solar winds and storms increase aurora strength. When a strong solar event hits Earth, the lights can appear even during periods of thin cloud cover.
4. Darkness
You need full darkness. Street lights and city glow reduce visibility, so always move to darker areas.
How to Chase the Northern Lights on Your Own
Chasing the aurora is easier than many people think. Follow these steps for the best chance of success.
1. Check the Forecast Early
View the cloud map and KP index in the afternoon. Choose a direction with clear or clearing skies.
2. Leave the City Lights Behind
Move away from Reykjavík or other towns. Even 10 to 15 minutes outside the city makes a huge difference.
3. Choose Wide Open Areas
Look for:
Lakes
Beaches
Mountain viewpoints
Open fields
You want a wide horizon with no high buildings or hills blocking the view.
4. Stay Out for a While
Auroras often come in waves. Even if you do not see anything for 30 minutes, wait longer. Activity can rise suddenly.
5. Dress Warmly
Winter nights can be extremely cold. Wear layers, gloves, a warm hat and insulated shoes.
6. Turn Off Your Car Lights
If you park to watch the sky, make sure your headlights are off to avoid disturbing other viewers and your own night vision.
Northern Lights Tours in Iceland
Northern Lights tours are one of the most reliable ways to see the aurora in Iceland. Local guides study cloud maps, weather conditions and the aurora forecast every night, then choose the best direction to travel for clear skies. This gives guests a much higher chance of seeing the lights than going alone.
Most tours start in the evening. You drive away from the city into dark open landscapes, stop at selected viewing spots and wait for the lights to appear. If the sky closes, the guide will move to another location. Many tours also help with camera settings and night photography.
Why Join a Tour
Guides know the weather and cloud movements
Tours avoid light pollution and find clear sky breaks
No need to drive on icy winter roads
Helpful photography tips
Many operators offer a free retry if no lights appear
Types of Northern Lights Tours
Bus tours for the best price
Small group tours for more flexibility
Super Jeep tours for remote viewing spots
Private tours for a personalised experience
Boat tours for darker skies near Reykjavík harbor
Northern Lights Tour
22000 ISK
Private 4x4 Northern Lights Tour
93900 ISK
Northern Lights by Boat
13990 ISK
Photography Tips for the Northern Lights
You do not need a professional camera, but these tips make a big difference.
1. Use a tripod
The aurora requires long exposure, so keep your camera steady.
2. Use manual mode
Start with:
ISO 800 to 1600
Shutter speed 3 to 8 seconds
Aperture f2.8 to f4
3. Turn off flash
Flash ruins night images and does not help aurora photography.
4. Focus manually
Set your lens to infinity or focus on a distant light.
5. For phones
Use night mode or long exposure mode if available. Hold the phone very still.
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