Aurora Borealis
Iceland offers one of the most accessible and spectacular opportunities to witness the Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights, a natural light display in the Earth's sky. Its low light pollution, dramatic landscapes, and position within the auroral oval make it a prime destination for this celestial phenomenon.
Maps
How to get around Aurora Borealis
Select a popular place to update the map.
Inspiration
Why Aurora Borealis is worth the trip
- High probability of sightings due to location within the auroral oval.
- Stunning backdrop of glaciers, volcanoes, and black sand beaches.
- Combine aurora hunting with other unique Icelandic experiences (hot springs, Golden Circle).
- Relatively easy accessibility from major international hubs.
- Variety of tours and viewing options available.
Timing
Best time to visit Aurora Borealis
The best time to see the Aurora Borealis in Iceland is during the darker months, typically from late August to April. Optimal viewing requires clear, dark skies away from city lights, with peak activity often occurring around midnight. Solar activity also plays a crucial role.
Eat & Drink
Where to eat in Aurora Borealis
- Kjötsúpa (traditional Icelandic lamb soup)
- Hákarl (fermented shark, for the adventurous)
- Plokkfiskur (fish stew)
- Skyr (Icelandic dairy product)
- Hot dogs (Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur)
- Rúgbrauð (dense rye bread, often baked in geothermal heat)
Must-See
Top sights in Aurora Borealis
- Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
- Kirkjufell mountain (Snæfellsnes Peninsula)
- Thingvellir National Park (Golden Circle)
- Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
- Anywhere away from Reykjavik's light pollution
Activities
Things to do in Aurora Borealis
- Join an organized Northern Lights tour (bus, super jeep, boat).
- Rent a car and self-drive to dark locations.
- Relax in geothermal hot springs under the aurora.
- Explore ice caves and glaciers.
- Visit the Aurora Reykjavik museum for educational context.
- Photography workshops focused on night sky and aurora.
Quiet Corners
Hidden gems near Aurora Borealis
- Westfjords region (less crowded, very dark skies).
- East Fjords (remote, dramatic landscapes).
- Small guesthouses or cabins in rural areas for private viewing.
- Using local apps/forecasts to find unexpected clearings.
- Stargazing alongside aurora viewing in remote areas.
From Travelers
Traveler tips for Aurora Borealis
- Dress in multiple warm layers; it gets very cold waiting.
- Be patient; sightings are never guaranteed.
- Check aurora forecasts (e.g., Icelandic Met Office) and cloud cover predictions.
- Bring a good camera with manual settings and a tripod.
- Consider staying outside Reykjavik for better chances and darker skies.
- Book tours with a 're-try' option if the first attempt fails.
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