How to Find the Northen Lights in Iceland
Northen Lights Guide
Planning a winter trip to Iceland is more than just a vacation—it's a quest for one of nature’s most dazzling shows. If witnessing the Northern Lights is on your bucket list, this guide is your go-to resource. Designed for adventure lovers, it takes you through Iceland’s dramatic landscapes, icy adventures, and the best ways to catch the aurora borealis.
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Where I stayed:
Hvolsvöllur: Stóra-Mörk III Guesthouse
Jökulsárlón: Old Cottage - Reynivellir II
I chose my accommodation with the goal of staying outside the city center as much as possible to maximize my chances of seeing the Northern Lights. A special mention goes to Stóra-Mörk III Guesthouse—it was incredibly cozy and comfortable. I can't recommend this place enough! I was staying here when the Northern lights showed up.
Northern Lights
No winter trip to Iceland is complete without the magical experience of chasing the Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis. This natural spectacle—waves of green, purple, and pink light rippling across the night sky—is most visible between late September and early April, when the nights are longest and the skies darkest. To maximize your chances, head far away from city lights—think remote countryside, national parks, or coastal areas. Some of the best spots include Thingvellir National Park, the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, and the area around Vik in the south.
Clear skies are essential, so keep an eye on the weather forecast and aurora activity reports. Cloud cover can completely obscure the show, even if aurora activity is strong. One of the best tools for planning is the Aurora app, which uses real-time data to predict aurora visibility and even sends notifications when the lights are likely to appear in your area. Set up alerts and be ready to head out at a moment’s notice.
Patience and flexibility are key—sometimes the lights show up within minutes, other times it may take hours (or a few nights of waiting). Dress warmly, bring a thermos of something hot, and consider joining a guided Northern Lights tour if you prefer expert guidance and transportation to optimal viewing spots.
There are also guided tours on Viator and Get your Guide to see the northern lights, which can help spotting them during your trip.
Iceland in winter is a paradise for adventure seekers, where snow-covered landscapes, shimmering glaciers, and the magical Northern Lights create an otherworldly backdrop. From glacier hiking on Svínafellsjökull to chasing waterfalls like Skógafoss, exploring ice caves beneath Vatnajökull, and soaking in geothermal hot springs, every moment is unforgettable. Pack your winter gear, embrace the elements, and let the adventure begin!