The Northern Lights are breathtaking…and elusive. Follow these tips to increase the chances you will see Mother Nature’s glorious display.
The ethereal dance of the Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, stands as one of the most breathtaking displays that Mother Nature has to offer. For those seeking to witness this celestial spectacle, the northern reaches of Iceland, nestled close to the Arctic Circle, present an unparalleled vantage point. This region is widely regarded as one of the premier destinations in the world to observe this nightly phenomenon. To maximize your chances of witnessing the Aurora Borealis, it is highly recommended to keep a close watch on the Aurora Service forecast. This invaluable resource is maintained by a dedicated, all-volunteer group of Northern Lights enthusiasts who meticulously track and report sightings, as well as pinpoint areas with a high probability of activity. For added convenience, you can even opt to receive text alerts, providing you with notifications up to an hour in advance of anticipated Northern Lights displays, allowing you ample time to prepare for the mesmerizing show.
Planning a trip to Iceland with the specific intention of viewing the Northern Lights requires careful consideration. To assist you in your quest, we have compiled a list of essential tips to enhance your chances of witnessing this unforgettable natural wonder.
**Optimal Viewing Times: September to March**
The period between September and March offers the most favorable conditions for Northern Lights viewing in Iceland. During these months, the skies tend to be clearer and significantly darker, with cloud cover generally reduced. While temperatures during this time are considerably colder, the enhanced darkness significantly improves the visibility of the Aurora Borealis. It’s worth noting that the Northern Lights often appear in clusters of nights, gracing the sky for two or three consecutive evenings before disappearing for a similar duration. If your travels take you to northern Iceland during the Polar nights, particularly around the winter solstice in December, you might even have the extraordinary opportunity to witness the Northern Lights shimmering in the sky at midday, a truly remarkable and rare occurrence.
**Escape the City Lights**
To fully appreciate the grandeur of the Northern Lights, it is imperative to escape the pervasive light pollution emanating from urban centers. Cities like Reykjavik, with their constant illumination from streetlights, cars, and homes, create a blanket of light that obscures the faint glow of the aurora. To achieve the clearest and darkest skies necessary for optimal viewing, venture away from these urban areas. At the very least, head a few miles outside of the city limits to find a significant improvement in sky clarity. For a truly immersive experience, consider a three-hour drive to the remote town of Thórsmörk and spend the night in a unique volcano hut. Alternatively, consider booking a guided tour that will transport you miles out to sea on a two-hour boat ride, ensuring an unobstructed and undisturbed view of this awe-inspiring natural phenomenon. The further you are from artificial light sources, the more vibrant and captivating the Northern Lights will appear.
**Journey to Grímsey Island**
For a truly exceptional Northern Lights viewing experience, consider a flight from Reykjavik or Akureyri to the secluded island of Grímsey, located in the northernmost reaches of Iceland. You can take an Air Iceland flight for your travel needs. Grímsey holds the unique distinction of being bisected by the Arctic Circle, placing it squarely within the prime aurora viewing zone. This remote island offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the Northern Lights in their full glory. Grímsey Island boasts a tranquil atmosphere, with only two hotels, a single shop, and vast expanses of uninhabited countryside. For the adventurous and outdoorsy, consider bringing a tent and camping under the stars in the pristine wilderness of this small North Atlantic island. Available Accommodation options include: Malarhorn Guesthouse & Basar Guesthouse.
**Embrace the Freedom of a Rental Car**
Renting a car provides you with the flexibility and freedom to chase the Northern Lights across the Icelandic landscape. Rental cars are readily available in Reykjavik and other major towns throughout the country, and can typically be rented with a foreign driver’s license. To maximize your chances of success, keep your rental car’s fuel tank full and remain prepared to embark on a journey to wherever the Aurora Service forecasters indicate the highest probability of sightings. Your pursuit may lead you to Þingvellir National Park, the charming town of Álftanes just outside of Reykjavik, or perhaps to the untamed wilderness of the northwest. However, it is crucial to remember that the Aurora Borealis is notoriously unpredictable, capable of appearing when you least expect it and vanishing just as quickly, sometimes lasting only a few fleeting seconds.
**Master the Art of Long Exposure Photography**
The human eye, under certain atmospheric conditions or due to the aurora’s intensity, may struggle to discern the full spectrum of colors present in the Northern Lights. To overcome this limitation, employ the technique of long exposure photography. When you discover a secluded spot far removed from light pollution, set up your high-resolution camera and focus it towards the heavens. Ensure that your camera is set to capture images with a long exposure time. Upon reviewing your photographs, you may be astonished to discover that your camera captured the vibrant, flashing colors of the lights, even if you were unable to perceive them with your naked eye. Immerse yourself in these awe-inspiring photos and relive the magic of the Northern Lights.