The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are an awe-inspiring natural phenomenon, and to see them in Iceland will make your trip unique and unforgettable.
In terms of science, they are sheets of light caused by charged solar particles interacting with the Earth’s magnetic field. But in terms of beauty, they are simply a stunning sight - blankets of green, red or magenta dancing and weaving majestically across the sky. Because Iceland lies in the middle of the auroral zone, they can with luck be seen on almost any clear, dark night between October and April.
Your best chance to see this display is to move away from light pollution and look to clear skies (and keep your fingers crossed), but you don’t have to go too far into the wilderness. From Reykjavík, there are great viewing spots within 10km and 30km. If driving, be careful and make sure you know the terrain and how to get back.
An alternative is to take a guided tour or Northern Lights safari, whereby a bus or jeep can bring you into the dark interior and away from light pollution to enhance your chances of seeing the sky come alive.
Another great adventure is to book a few nights at a rural hotel or guesthouse, where light pollution is at a minimum, and while you explore the otherworldly environment by day, you can relax at night safe in the knowledge that, should the lights come out to play, the staff will wake you so there is no chance of missing out on one of nature’s greatest spectacles.
Whatever way you choose to chase the Aurora on your Northern Lights adventure, on seeing them you will be left with a lifelong memory and yet another unforgettable experience from Iceland.
