Best Places in Iceland to Witness the Northern Lights
The ethereal beauty of the Northern Lights is a natural phenomenon that leaves a lasting impression on those fortunate enough to see them. With vibrant hues of blue, green, pink, and violet dancing across the night sky, it is a sight to behold and cherish.
Iceland, situated at 65 degrees north latitude, is among the prime locations worldwide for viewing the Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis. The Northern Lights belt typically ranges between 65 and 72 degrees north, with higher latitudes offering better chances of witnessing this awe-inspiring display. Thanks to the moderating effects of the gulf stream, Iceland tends to be warmer compared to other northern regions like Scandinavia, particularly in September or March, when the average night-time temperature is a manageable 4°C.
The key to observing the Northern Lights is clear, cloudless skies, and Iceland boasts numerous remote locations devoid of light pollution. The diverse landscapes of Iceland, including waterfalls, cliffs, glaciers, rock formations, and mountains, provide unique opportunities for capturing stunning pictures as the lights dance overhead.
While there is no guarantee of seeing the Northern Lights during a trip to Iceland, your chances are enhanced by venturing out when it is completely dark and choosing a non-urban setting surrounded by nature. Here are some of the best destinations in Iceland for stargazing and all the information you need to plan an unforgettable trip.
The best time to witness the Northern Lights in Iceland is between September and mid-April when the nights are longest. It is advisable to consult a lunar calendar and avoid full moon periods to ensure optimal viewing conditions. September and March, particularly around the equinoxes, are peak months due to the favourable angle of the solar wind’s magnetic field. Clearer skies during these months enhance visibility, with the lights typically shining brightest between 9 pm and 2 am, with prime sightings around 11 pm to midnight.
Some of the top destinations in Iceland for spotting the Northern Lights include:
Mount Kirkjufell: Known for its spectacular mountain backdrop, this location offers a memorable viewing experience, especially when combined with a stay at the Kirkjufell Hotel in West Iceland.
Grotta Lighthouse: Situated near Reykjavík, this spot offers minimal light pollution, allowing for magical views of the light displays against the lighthouse backdrop.
Jökulsárlón: The Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon provides a serene setting for observing the Northern Lights, with icebergs reflecting the colours of the auroras.
Skógafoss Waterfalls: Located near the Eyjafjallajökull volcano, this site offers ideal conditions for capturing the Northern Lights against the backdrop of the cascading waterfall.
Thingvellir National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this park offers unobstructed views of the night sky, with unique features like Silfra and Öxarárfoss waterfall enhancing the experience.
Lake Kleifarvatn: Just a short drive from Reykjavík, this tranquil lake surrounded by volcanic landscapes provides a scenic spot for Northern Lights viewing.
Mývatn: This region in northern Iceland offers hot spring bathing and a picturesque setting for observing the Northern Lights, complemented by a stay at Fosshótel Mývatn.
Seljavallalaug: One of Iceland’s oldest pools, this outdoor swimming spot allows for a relaxing soak under the Northern Lights, with accommodation options like Hotel Vík í Mýrda offering luxury in a remote setting.
Westfjords: The remote Westfjords region offers stunning natural beauty and the chance to witness the Northern Lights amidst untouched Icelandic landscapes, with accommodation like Ísafjörður Inn providing a comfortable stay in this wild setting.
In conclusion, Iceland’s diverse landscapes and remote locations make it a premier destination for experiencing the enchanting beauty of the Northern Lights. Whether you choose to watch them against a mountain backdrop, by a tranquil lake, or in a secluded hot spring, the experience is sure to be unforgettable. Plan your trip wisely during the best viewing months and select one of these top locations for an awe-inspiring encounter with one of nature’s most mesmerising displays.