Northern lights season is in full swing in Iceland, and they are forecasted to be brighter and more frequent than ever! I have already witnessed some epic nights where Lady Aurora filled the entire sky, and I look forward to the show continuing well into the winter nights.
This is all due to the extreme solar activity, projected to be at a 23-year high in the 2024-2025 Aurora season. This is the perfect time for a winter escape to Iceland to experience this phenomenon!
Iceland’s nights and dramatic landscapes make it one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. Shaped by volcanic activity, glaciers, and waterfalls, Iceland is a destination to be experienced.
Iceland’s Northern Lights season begins in September and ends in mid-April. Autumn brings the richness of colors as foliage changes, and winter brings the holiday vibes and cozy nights Icelanders have celebrated.
I love exploring Iceland in all seasons, however, winter is my favorite, and here’s why:
- Northern Lights
- Cozy nights
- Snowy winter wonderland scenes
- Iceland’s holiday spirit is downright adorable. The cities and small towns are transformed into scenes from those postcards we all know and love.
Although Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable and harsh in the winter at times, I have been gifted crisp, sunny days when visiting, as well as snowy nights where I could enjoy slowing down a bit and, if I got lucky, watching the Aurora.
To enjoy Iceland in the winter, all it takes is the right mindset and the right clothing, which is why I also published my Winter Packing List as well as a blog about enjoying Iceland, even on its snowiest days!
Read on to learn more about the Northern Lights, tips on increasing your chances of seeing them, why Iceland is a must-do destination, the best locations, and how to capture Lady Aurora on camera!
What are the Northern Lights
“It was as if the heavens parted, ribbons of green unraveled then danced across the sky, ethereal curtains that swayed and parted with the rhythm of a universe so far away, yet for that moment, touched upon our eyes with unforgettable glory.”
The Northern Lights is a sky spectacle that has fascinated and mystified people for millennia. It draws enthusiastic visitors from all over the globe to Iceland during the winter season.
Scandinavia’s settlers once believed the Northern Lights to be the shields of the Valkyrie, mythical beings in Norse Mythology as they descended onto earth from the heavens. Witnessing this ethereal sky dance leaves little doubt that such unbelievable beauty could be born from myth and tales. Believe it or not, this phenomenon has a scientific reason, and it all starts with the sun.
The Aurora can only be witnessed near the Earth’s North or South poles. In the North, they are referred to as the Aurora Borealis, whereas in the South, it is Aurora Australis. You will sometimes hear the Northern Lights referred to as “the Green Lady” or just “lights.”
The dancing lights in the sky are caused by activity on the sun’s surface, known as solar storms. Solar storms are explosions on the sun’s surface that release millions of particles into the earth’s atmosphere.
Many particles are deflected away; others are pulled towards the north or south poles. The sun’s particles crash into molecules in the earth’s atmosphere, setting them aglow. At their closest, these particles are still 160km above us but can still occur thousands of kilometers away. The closer they are to us, the greater the intensity and likelihood of them being visible.
Solar activity is another factor that increases the intensity and frequency of the aurora.
The years 2024 and 2025 are projected to have extreme solar activity, increasing the likelihood, intensity, and visibility of Aurora, making it the perfect time to plan a Northern Lights adventure.
The processes that cause the Northern lights happen almost every day, but seeing them is never guaranteed, which is why this display is such a treat. During Iceland’s summer months, the daylight makes it impossible, and cloudy skies or a bright full moon will impede them in the winter.
However, I have witnessed a strong Aurora during a full moon in Rauforhofn, so if the lights are intense, the moonlight will do little to affect them. In other words, do not let this deter you!
The intensity of the aurora also depends on the power of the solar storms, which is maximum. Iceland has already seen some incredible displays this season, enough to captivate the long-standing locals who have witnessed this their entire lives!
The Colors
Most pictures show the Aurora in striking green, but it can be many different colors, such as red, purple, blue, and even pink! The colors depend on what particles in the earth’s atmosphere are heated by the solar particles and at what altitude.
- Green is the most common of the colors, and this occurs when solar particles meet Oxygen particles.
- Red occurs when oxygen particles meet solar particles at a higher altitude, such as 480km.
- Pink occurs when solar particles collide with nitrogen at a low altitude, such as 100km above ground.
- The rarest color in the Northern Lights is deep blue or purple, which occurs at lower altitudes when solar particles meet nitrogen.
What makes Iceland the top destination for Northern Lights viewing
As the saying goes, location, location, location! Iceland is one of the world’s best destinations for Northern Lights gazing and photography, and you don’t have to look far at its lively landscapes to see why. Iceland herself is a masterpiece sculpted by geothermal activities, volcanoes, and glaciers. The result is stunning scenery no matter the time of day or year!
If you are a photographer, Iceland provides ample opportunity for composing one-of-a-kind epic shots with unlimited foreground subjects such as the famous Kirkjufell mountain, glacier lagoon, and farmhouses.
Reasons why Iceland is the best destination to see the Northern Lights
- Iceland’s location is south of the North Pole, making it reasonably close to where the aurora would be at its best visibility
- Dark, long winter nights. For the aurora to be visible, you need a few things to happen, including a dark sky. With hours of darkness in winter and a long winter season, Iceland affords travelers an excellent opportunity to be flexible with what month they travel and enough promise of dark skies!
- Stunning foreground subjects—with unique mountains such as Kirkjufell, waterfalls such as Skogafoss, and spectacular volcanoes. Iceland’s landscapes are a photographer’s playground for capturing that one-of-a-kind dream shot of a lifetime.
- There is so much more to see and do! The aurora is never guaranteed, but witnessing other mind-blowing landscapes in Iceland or experiencing our rich culture is! Plus, Iceland’s cozy winter vibes and holiday spirit that locals pride themselves on will make you feel at home! Strolling around Reykjavik around the holidays is magical, and visiting places outside the city provides a real taste of Icelandic living with nature. Whether you are a city dweller or prefer a quieter stay, you can have it all during a Northern Lights trip!
What is the best time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland?
The best time to view the Northern Lights in Iceland is during the winter season when the nights are at their darkest. Typically, from September through mid-April, we have witnessed intense aurora activity!
Light levels are at their lowest on December 21, the winter solstice, allowing visitors more opportunity for dark, clear nights. However, the weather in September and April is more stable and milder, allowing visitors who prefer these conditions to view them as well! In both early September and mid-April, I have witnessed strong and colorful aurora activity.
However, a few things still need to line up, regardless of your chosen month.
- Clear, dark skies. Can you see the Aurora on a cloudy night or with a full moon? You may glimpse intense aurora activity behind clouds or with a full moon, but dark, clear skies are still your best chances.
- Strong solar activity. An increase in solar flares will. Increase the likelihood of the aurora, and a stronger solar storm will produce an intense aurora. Scientists use what is known as the KP index or Planetary Index, which measures the geomagnetic activity in the Earth’s atmosphere. The higher the KP Index, the more likely an aurora will be visible. You can track sky conditions, KP index and locations using the Aurora app and check the Icelandic Met Office at https://en.vedur.is.
- Time of day. The best time of day to see the Aurora is from 10 PM- 1 AM, as nights are at their darkest. However, some have spotted the aurora as early as 9 PM and even as late as 3 AM! Most Northern Lights tours in Iceland operate from September through April from 10 midnight to allow ample opportunity to spot them. However, you will find Aurora enthusiasts out hunting until 2 AM, searching for the brightest aurora they can find! I even saw the Aurora in late August, a night I will never forget! The display filled the entire sky above Godafoss until 3 am, a truly unforgettable night!
As they say, Aurora hunting is not a day job!
Best Locations in Iceland to View the Aurora
As stated, Iceland is the best place to see the aurora. It offers visitors ample opportunity with long nights and is home to the world’s most dynamic landscapes. If you are a photo enthusiast, there is no shortage of compositions here, as you can get as creative as you’d like with shapely mountain peaks, farmhouses, glaciers, and waterways!
- Iceland’s South Coast’s frequented south coast makes it a great place to search for the Aurora. With nearby incredible scenery, accessible travel, and limited light pollution, there are plenty of spots to see the northern lights, making Iceland’s south coast a prime location to plan an aurora-hunting adventure! This area of Iceland is rich with glacier landscapes, black sand beaches, waterfalls, and vast farmlands. Plus, it is fairly easy to drive, and you won’t have to venture onto unmaintained roads to find a great location where there is plenty of open dark sky!
Distance from Reykjavik: 90 Min drive
- Snaefellsnes National Park, this peninsula, also known as “Iceland in Miniature,” rich in mystical landscapes, is the birthplace of Iceland’s most famous folktales. Here, you will also find Iceland’s most photographed mountain, Kirkjufell Mountain. There is no shortage of photo opportunities with interesting foregrounds, such as Hvalfjordur or Buðir Black Church. Distance from Reykjavik: 2 hours
- Iceland’s Southern Highlands: Iceland’s interior is home to the country’s most rugged and wild terrain. Less explored due to the challenging F roads it takes to navigate, this area is vacant of virtually any light pollution but rich in wondrous landscapes, making it another perfect destination to see the aurora. Since F roads are not maintained in the winter, this region is accessible only through guided tours. Distance from Reykjavik: 2 -3 hours
Recommendations for Aurora Hunting:
- Scout locations. Pick locations that promise a clear night with little light pollution. If you are a photographer, research destinations with a foreground subject, you are also interested in capturing!
- Plan on a clear night with little to no moonlight. Check the KP index and aurora tracker on the Aurora app and the Icelandic Met Office—these are the best tools for predicting Aurora, including the KP index, moon phase, cloud coverage, and temperatures, so you know how to dress!
- Go on a guided tour! This is a fun way to go to Aurora hunting, and it takes the guessing game and driving out of your hands into an experienced guide who knows the best spots to see the Aurora!
- Dress warm and in layers; Iceland’s winter can be cold, with average temperatures ranging around 31 F / 0 C. Waiting for the aurora can sometimes mean standing outside for a bit, and it is best to think about your comfort before the aurora happens versus being distracted by having to add layers or cold hands. It is always good to be prepared. Dress in warm layers, gloves, mittens, and a hat, and carry a day pack with any extras needed! I also like to pack a thermos of coffee or hot chocolate. It keeps me warm while waiting and caffeinated, but reconsider this if you know rest stops nearby are limited. 🙂
- Bring a headlamp. A headlamp with a red-light option is handy if you need to walk to and from the vehicle for a short distance. Remember to keep the lamp on the red setting to not disturb the darkness for others or your own eyes!
- Limit light pollution. Watching for the aurora takes the right conditions, patience, and our own eyes. The human eyes may take several hours to adjust to the dark completely, and only seconds to ruin that! Remember, the darker the better. Utilize the red light setting on headlamps and turn off vehicle headlights while waiting.
- Be patient. Some people have more sensitive eyes than others and have developed a strong “spidey sense” regarding the aurora. This may come from years of experience or just a gut feeling. No matter who you are and how long you have been doing it, it still takes patience. Don’t give up if the aurora faints at first, especially if there is a lot of movement.
- Keep your ears open. An intense aurora may also produce a “humming” or crackling sound. This is not your imagination, but atmospheric electricity changes when the aurora disturbs the earth’s magnetic field, creating a static charge. These sounds are also more likely to occur during a strong geomagnetic storm and when cold air is trapped beneath warm air.
Photographing the Aurora
You don’t need a special camera to capture the Aurora. Most modern-day smartphones have a “night mode.” A phone can also detect the aurora before our eye can, which is the reason behind the vivid, no-filter images captured with a smartphone. These images make the phone a helpful tool when hunting or when you suspect you see a hint of Lady Green.
If you are a photographer with a DSLR camera, here are some tips for settings and equipment. Research your camera’s brand and model to understand its settings and capabilities.
- Use of a tripod. Night photography involves long exposures and slower shutter speeds, which require a tripod to hold the camera and limit any shake. A carbon fiber tripod is nice and light for travel but can get shaky during a windy night, so be prepared to steady the tripod if need be.
- Carry extra batteries and memory cards. The cold drains batteries faster, and it is always good to carry an extra memory card!
- Set your camera focus to infinity. If your camera does not have this option, focus on the furthest star. Some photographers choose to tape their lens focus ring in place once they have set this so there is no movement during the shots. This is a good idea, especially since things can get exciting once the aurora shows up. You want to be prepared beforehand to focus on the show and your photography!
- Slow shutter speed. Night photography means longer exposures, and depending on the intensity of the aurora, you will want to slow your shutter speed setting between 2 and 15 seconds. A darker, less active aurora will require a longer shutter speed, whereas a 2-4-second shutter speed may work. Start at 10 seconds, then work up or down as needed.
- Set your camera to its widest aperture possible. You want to set your aperture to its smallest number possible, ideally 1.4- 2.4. The lower the number, the higher the aperture, and the more light your lens will allow.
- White balance. Set your white balance to Kelvin 3500. An auto-white balance may produce a yellowish tint to the aurora.
It is best to have your camera settings ready before action! Once the show starts, it will be too exciting to focus on anything else!
Remember, whether you are a seasoned photographer or capturing an image on your phone, step away from the lens for a moment and enjoy the magic with your own eyes!
Aurora Tours
One of the best ways to witness the aurora in Iceland is by attending a guided tour! Not only do you leave the location scouting and driving to a professional, but you will also meet local-minded travelers, learn about Iceland’s rich history, and leave with even more unforgettable memories!
Benefits of an aurora tour:
- Location scouting is done. Guides know the darkest and best places to see the aurora. With years of experience, their local expertise in the area ensures you have the best chances as well as a good time.
- Leave the driving to a professional. Participating in a guided tour means sitting back and relaxing while a guide takes care of the driving! This is an excellent option for folks uncomfortable with night driving or driving in remote areas.
- Engage with locals and other like-minded travelers. A guided tour allows you to meet and talk to locals and other like-minded travelers, which can enrich your visit! Guides are experts on Icelandic customs, landscapes, and history. Their passion for Iceland means they enjoy sharing all this information with visitors. When you attend a tour, you will experience Aurora and learn more about Iceland’s rich heritage.
- Meet new friends. Whether you are a solo traveler, a family of four, or a couple, a guided tour is a great time to meet other like-minded travelers!
Ready to experience the magic of the aurora season, meet new friends, and celebrate Iceland’s winter season?
If you would like more about visiting Iceland during her magical winter nights, here are two blog posts about my own personal journey during these visits!
