ALLT SEM ÞÚ ÞARFT AÐ VITA UM NORÐURLJÓSIN
THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO SEEING THE NORTHERN LIGHTS IN ICELAND
Planning to see the Northern Lights in Iceland?
This ultimate guide covers everything you need to know: the best time and places to see them, how to enhance your chances, what to bring, and how to capture stunning Aurora photos.
From guided tours to self-drives, we’ve got you covered to make your Aurora hunt a success!
HOW TO READ AN AURORA FORECAST: YOUR COMPLETE GUIDE TO NOT MISS THE NORTHERN LIGHTS
Catching the aurora isn’t just a matter of luck; it’s a combination of being in the right place at the right time and understanding the science behind the aurora forecast.
NORÐURLJÓSAFERÐ - LÍTILL HÓPUR
HÁPUNKTAR:
NORÐURLJÓSAFERÐ í lítilli rútu
FRÍAR MYNDIR af þér undir norðurljósunum
✓ Homemade hot Chocolate og Pastries
✓ Frítt Skutl til og frá
THE 25 BEST PLACES TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS IN ICELAND
As a lifelong Northern Lights enthusiast and founder of Aurora Reykjavík, I’ve spent countless nights chasing the auroras across Iceland. Each experience feels like the first—an awe-inspiring dance of color and light against the vast Icelandic skies. In this guide, I’ll share my 25 favorite spots to witness this natural wonder, from remote highlands to coastal gems. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned aurora hunter, these locations offer something truly magical. Let me take you on a journey to the best places in Iceland to see the Northern Lights. – Grétar Jónsson
HOW TO PHOTOGRAPH THE NORTHERN LIGHTS
Capturing the Northern Lights is easier than you think—if you know the right settings. In this guide, you’ll learn how to photograph the aurora with any camera or smartphone, including the best ISO, shutter speed, focus techniques, and tripod tips. Whether you’re a beginner or chasing your dream shot in Iceland, this step-by-step guide will help you take sharp, vibrant Northern Lights photos every time.
NORÐURLJÓSAFERÐ - LÍTILL HÓPUR
HÁPUNKTAR:
NORÐURLJÓSAFERÐ í lítilli rútu
FRÍAR MYNDIR af þér undir norðurljósunum
✓ Homemade hot Chocolate og Pastries
✓ Frítt Skutl til og frá
The 25 Best places to see the northern lights in Iceland
As a lifelong Northern Lights enthusiast and founder of Aurora Reykjavík, I’ve spent countless nights chasing the auroras across Iceland. Each experience feels like the first—an awe-inspiring dance of color and light against the vast Icelandic skies. In this guide, I’ll share my 25 favorite spots to witness this natural wonder, from remote highlands to coastal gems. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned aurora hunter, these locations offer something truly magical. Let me take you on a journey to the best places in Iceland to see the Northern Lights. – Grétar Jónsson
HOW TO PHOTOGRAPH THE NORTHERN LIGHTS
Capturing the Northern Lights is easier than you think—if you know the right settings. In this guide, you’ll learn how to photograph the aurora with any camera or smartphone, including the best ISO, shutter speed, focus techniques, and tripod tips. Whether you’re a beginner or chasing your dream shot in Iceland, this step-by-step guide will help you take sharp, vibrant Northern Lights photos every time.
BEST SPOTS TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS IN REYKJAVIK
“Can you see the northern lights from the city?”, is a frequent question of hopeful aurora hunters.
The answer: Yes, if conditions are right, you can. And here is where.
THE PERFECT WINTER WEEKEND IN ICELAND
Winter in Iceland is a truly magical time. Surreal snowy landscapes, cozy long nights and the magical northern lights.
Spending a weekend in Iceland this time of the year will get you a taste of the best Iceland can offer during those short winter days (and long nights).
Here is the ultimate itinerary for a 48 to 78 hours winter stay in Iceland.
THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO SEEING THE NORTHERN LIGHTS IN ICELAND IN 2026
Planning to see the Northern Lights in Iceland? This ultimate guide covers everything you need to know: the best time and places to see them, how to enhance your chances, what to bring, and how to capture stunning Aurora photos. From guided tours to self-drives, we’ve got you covered to make your Aurora hunt a success!
How to Read an Aurora Forecast: Your Complete Guide to not miss the Northern Lights
Catching the aurora isn’t just a matter of luck; it’s a combination of being in the right place at the right time and understanding the science behind the aurora forecast.
This guide goes beyond the basics, explaining every key element of an aurora forecast so you can maximise your chances of experiencing this incredible natural phenomenon for yourself.
The 25 Best Places To See The Northern Lights In Iceland
As a lifelong Northern Lights enthusiast and founder of Aurora Reykjavík, I’ve spent countless nights chasing the auroras across Iceland. Each experience feels like the first—an awe-inspiring dance of color and light against the vast Icelandic skies. In this guide, I’ll share my 25 favorite spots to witness this natural wonder, from remote highlands to coastal gems. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned aurora hunter, these locations offer something truly magical. Let me take you on a journey to the best places in Iceland to see the Northern Lights. – Grétar Jónsson
HOW TO PHOTOGRAPH THE NORTHERN LIGHTS
Best time Best places Best settings There is perhaps nothing more magical than witnessing the beauty of a Northern Lights display, and it has been a lifelong dream of many. Bringing home your very own shot of these magic is the cherry on the cake. However, those...
Can You See the Northern Lights with the Naked Eye?
Yes, you can absolutely see the northern lights with the naked eye—under the right conditions! While cameras often pick up more detail and intensity than our eyes, a strong aurora combined with dark skies and clear weather can create an unforgettable spectacle visible to anyone looking up. In this guide, we’ll share tips to maximize your chances of experiencing the magic firsthand, no special equipment required!
10 Night Sky Events not to be missed in 2025
10 Night Sky Events Not To Be Missed in 2025 From a partial solar eclipse to eye-catching planetary alignments and disappearing rings of Saturn, 2025 will be a year filled with celestial wonders that no stargazer should miss. As Aurora and night sky specialists in...
REYKJAVIK MUSEUMS OPENING HOURS DURING CHRISTMAS 2025
If you’re travelling to Iceland during the holiday season, you might be wondering which places will be open during the Festivities.
To help you make the most of your trip, we’ve put together a guide to the holiday hours for some of Reykjavík’s most popular museums. Whether you’re exploring the city’s rich culture or looking for festive activities, we’ve got you covered.
Help! It’s Full Moon! Will It Ruin My Aurora Experience?
Think a full moon will spoil your chances of seeing the Northern Lights? Think again! Discover why moonlit nights can enhance the aurora experience, from magical landscapes to stunning photography tips. Learn how to make the most of your Northern Lights hunt—even under a bright moon.
What Are The Main Types of Northern Lights?
Despite their enchanting beauty, not all auroras are created equal. They come in various forms, each with its own unique characteristics and charm.
This guide delves into the main types of Northern Lights, explains the science behind their differences, and offers tips for maximizing your chances of seeing them at their most spectacular.
Do the Northern Lights Occur Every Night?
The Northern Lights, or aurora borealis, are a breathtaking natural phenomenon that occurs every night. However, visibility depends on key factors like solar activity, weather, and location. Discover when, where, and how to maximize your chances of seeing the aurora, with expert tips and real-time tools. Whether you’re in Iceland or elsewhere near the auroral oval, this guide will prepare you for an unforgettable Northern Lights adventure!
How Long Do the Northern Lights Last?
Northern Lights displays are as unpredictable as they are awe-inspiring. Some nights, they light up the entire sky for hours, while on others, they may appear for only a few minutes – sometimes in a much softer glow. But, more often it can come in waves of intensity known as Substorms.
Let’s take a deep dive into the science, timing, and some of the most thrilling insights to help you understand what goes into the length of an aurora show, and maybe give you a better chance of witnessing one of nature’s greatest spectacles.
THE 10 BEST NORTHERN LIGHTS ACCOMMODATIONS IN ICELAND IN 2025
Seeing the northern lights dance in the Icelandic sky is every traveler’s dream. Although the phenomenon can be seen anywhere around the country, light pollution sometimes spoils the view.
By opting for a full-comfort countryside northern lights stay, you will maximise your chances of success – literally at your doorstep.
Here are our 10 favourite country accommodations for seeing the northern lights in 2025.
MONTH-BY-MONTH GUIDE TO THE ICELANDIC WINTER SEASON
Northern lights and winter season go hand-in-hand. Longer hours of darkness, accompanied by good weather, solar activity, and a bit of luck, often translate into amazing Aurora Borealis displays – a truly unmissable show!
The northern lights are potentially visible all winter long, but statistically not two months are the same. To help you choose the best time for your Aurora Borealis getaway, here is our month-to-month guide to winter in Iceland.
Solar Maximum: Why Winter 2024/25 is the Perfect Time to See the Northern Lights in Iceland
Are you ready to witness the awe-inspiring beauty of the Northern Lights? There has never been a more perfect time than now! Forecasters are buzzing with excitement, predicting an exceptional Northern Lights season not only for this year but also extending into the...
THE BEST TIME TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS IN ICELAND
When is it best to travel to Iceland in order to see the northern lights? Learn everything you need to know about the Aurora season in Iceland, and more, in our article here.
DISCOVER GRANDI DISTRICT: TOP ATTRACTIONS AND ACTIVITIES IN REYKJAVIK
Discover Grandi District: Top Attractions and Activities in Reykjavik Planning a trip to the Grandi district in Reykjavík? Whether you’re seeking indoor activities for a rainy day or exploring the main attractions, Grandi has something for everyone. Here’s your...
Want to See Spectacular Northern Lights Next Winter? Iceland Awaits!
After the incredible northern lights displays of May 2024, we are expecting even more amazing Auroras next winter as we approach the solar maximum.Don't miss the northern lights show of a lifetime, join us as we witness the majestic phenomenon in Iceland next...
5 REASONS WHY WE LOVE AUTUMN AURORAS
The northern lights are visible between September and April. Experiencing the phenomenon is always a treat, but Auroras happening during our short lived Autumn are among our absolute favourite, especially to photograph. See why here.
☄️BREAKING: GIANT FIREBALL AND AURORAS ABOVE ICELAND 🌌
LAST NIGHT IN NORTH ICELAND: GIANT FIREBALL AND AURORAS ABOVE ICELAND It was he longest and most powerful meteor I have witnessed in my life. We were screaming when the sky lit up! Icelanders were left awestruck by a bright meteor that...
Extremely rare “blood aurora” dancing over Iceland last weekend
Last weekend, people in Iceland witnessed an extremely rare phenomenon: The so-called blood aurora, strong red auroral displays clearly visible to the bare eyes. Watch the phenomenal video, captured by Grétar Jónsson, owner and founder of Aurora Reykjavik, the Northern lights Center, and Katarina Raker, photographer.
HELP, IT’S FULL MOON! WILL IT RUIN MY AURORA EXPERIENCE?
Help! It’s full moon! Will it ruin my aurora experience? Find a revised version of this article here Imagine this: You just made it in the subarctic region, right under the auroral oval. It seems like you’re incredibly lucky: You hit the right time of the year...
LAST NIGHT IN REYKJAVÍK: GIANT SHOOTING STAR STARS THE NORTHERN LIGHTS
LAST NIGHT IN REYKJAVÍK: GIANT SHOOTING STAR STARS THE NORTHERN LIGHTS It was probably the longest and most powerful shooting star I have witnessed in my life. I was so vowed, I even forgot to make a wish. See it from second 11.Icelandic have been left awestruck...
NORTHERN LIGHTS AT ÞINGVELLIR – OCT. 1ST
Chasing the northern lights often resembles playing a card game. Knowledge and experience clearly enhance your chances a great deal, but in the end, it’s all about a little bit of luck. And then there are these nights: Perfect forecast, right timing, clear skies –...
THERE IS SOMETHING ABOUT STEVE – WHY THE AURORA NAMED STEVE ISN’T AN AURORA AT ALL
Since 2016, STEVE has been the term on the lips of Aurora enthusiasts across the world. Though STEVE is not considered part of the Aurora, its indistinguishable similarities and sightings have led to an intensified level of curiosity in understanding how STEVE comes into visibility. So, what is STEVE, and is it at all related to the northern lights?
Find out more about the phenomenon here.
DO AURORAS OCCUR ON OTHER PLANETS?
The northern lights are one of the most impressive natural phenomena our planet experience. As their main fuel is the solar plasma traveling across the Solar System, do our fellow planets have Auroras too, and how do they differ from the ones on Earth? Find out more about extra-terrestrial Auroras here.
HOP-ON HOP-OF REYKJAVIK CITY SIGHTSEEING
Explore Reykjavik on a hop-on, hop-off bus tour and create your own sightseeing itinerary Hop on and off at attractions of your choice and explore the city at your own pace While onboard audio commentary in 8 languages ensures that you do not miss a thing Witness the...
SPRING AURORAS – WHY YOU SHOULD HUNT THE NORTHERN LIGHTS BETWEEN FEBRUARY AND MID-APRIL
The season between February and mid-April is a magical time for seeing the northern lights in Iceland. Snowy landscapes, spring equinox and milder weather are some of the reasons to choose this time of the year for your Icelandic holiday. Find out more here.
HOW TO CHOOSE THE PERFECT NORTHERN LIGHTS TOUR
Heading to the arctic wilderness with an aurora super jeep adventure, or joining one of Iceland’s best aurora photographers on a photo tour? Or maybe taking it a bit slower, and enjoying the dazzling lights while bathing in one of Iceland’s hot lagoons? Find your perfect tour with our ultimate northern lights tour guide – Iceland is waiting for you!
BEST OF ICELAND: 3-IN-1 SPECIAL DEAL FOR 2025/26
All in one! – Three must-do tours all perfectly packaged in one!
This easy travel package is for those wanting to explore the best of Iceland while staying in Reykjavík.
Within two days, join us on the must-do Golden Circle which is comprised of the amazing Gullfoss Waterfall; Iceland´s only erupting hot spring, Geysir; as well the site of the world´s oldest existing parliament, Þingvellir National Park.
When night falls we set off in search of the magical and mysterious Northern Lights. The next day, we’ll head towards Iceland’s majestic south shore and explore Waterfalls, the famous black sand beach and the picturesque town of Vík.
WHY ICELAND IS THE WORLD BEST DESTINATION TO OBSERVE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS
1. Iceland's pristine landscape and diversity of places With its massive glaciers, volcanic landscapes, geothermal hot springs, and majestic waterfalls, Iceland is more than just an aurora hotspot – it's pure magic. Here the aurora can be spotted from...
BEST SPOTS TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS IN REYKJAVÍK
“Can you see the northern lights from Reykjavik?” is a question of many hopeful aurora hunters. The short answer: You can. And here’s where to go!
FAQ about the Northern Lights
Hvar get ég séð norðurljós á Íslandi?
The northern lights season in Iceland begins in late August and continues through mid-April.
Why can´t I see any northern lights in the summer ?
To be able to see the northern lights you need complete darkness. During summer we have what we call the “midnight sun”, meaning that there are no hours of actual nighttime darkness. These conditions are perfect for late night hiking, but make it impossible for us to observe the Aurora in Iceland between May and early August.
To see the sun graph and learn about the light balance for Reykjavik, visit these pages:
https://www.timeanddate.com/sun/iceland/reykjavik
https://www.timeanddate.com/astronomy/different-types-twilight.html
Klukkan hvað byrja norðurljósin?
Northern lights are statistically often seen between 9:00pm and 1:00am, but they may appear at any time as long as it is dark (and the sky clear). Patience is key!
Book your tour here
