Dubbed the “Land of Fire and Ice,” this ethereal island is home to the largest glaciers in Europe and some of the world’s most active volcanoes. But did you know that one of the most awe-inspiring natural phenomena appears in the sky? Here’s how to experience the Northern Lights in Iceland.
Iceland is one of the world’s best places for seeing the Northern Lights, also known as the aurora borealis. The best time to go is during the winter months (from September to April), when the nights are longer and darker, and it’s advisable to stay a week or longer to maximize your chances of seeing the lights. If you’re lucky, you may marvel at hues of green, purple, and red blazing across the starry sky. For your next trip, try these five fun and adventurous ways to chase the Northern Lights in Iceland. Happy hunting!
How to See the Northern Lights in Iceland
1. Take a cruise from Reykjavik
Get away from the light pollution in Reykjavik by boarding a boat. On this two to three-hour evening sea cruise, Reykjavik Excursions reaches a prime territory for aurora-spotting in just 15-30 minutes. Drifting in the silent North Atlantic Ocean, you can see brilliant colours streak across the black sky, as well as learn about the folklore, superstition, science behind this magical light show from the expert guides. If it gets chilly, head indoors into the heated indoor for a hot drink and some Icelandic treats.
2. Sleep in an Aurora Orb
Why freeze outside when you can hunt the lights from a warm bed? The Aurora Bubble Hotel takes “glamping” to the next level, setting up a transparent, heated dome in a forest, equipped with a double bed. Here, there’s a need to aimlessly wander the wintery wilderness looking for a light show. Just get snug under the covers and watch the aurora dance from your bed. Keep in mind that quarters are tight, so washrooms and showers are located offsite.
3. View the Northern Lights from a mountaintop
After plowing to the summit of Múlakolla Mountain in a snow-cat, you’ll feel on top of the world. At 984 metres high, it’s one of the tallest mountains in the Eyjafjordur area and yields incredible views of the entire fjord and the Atlantic Ocean. Far away from the city, the darkness covers the mountainside, making the conditions ideal for spotting purple, pink, and green hues splash across the sky. A chilly but unforgettable experience.
4. Indulge in a lobster feast
It’s worth the trek to Iceland’s south shore, where you can watch the mysterious lights dance above deserted black sand beaches. Afterwards, this jeep tour continues across rugged terrain to the little fishing village of Stokkseyri, where a lobster feast awaits in one of the cozy restaurants. Talk about aurora-hunting with a side of fancy! This is a way to observe the northern lights in Iceland for the more adventurous!
5. View the Aurora from a hot spring
Retreat to the Secret Lagoon – a hot spring located in Fludir, a small village situated within the Golden Circle region not too far from Reykjavik. Here, there are several natural geothermal spots, where the waters are a balmy 38 to 40 degrees Celsius year-round, as well as a little Geysir that erupts every five minutes for bathers. Away from the tourist crowds, sink into the steamy springs and wait for the magical light show to appear. Is there really a more relaxing way to experience the Northern Lights in Iceland?
Northern Lights in Iceland and Beyond
Want more travel inspiration? Check out Skyscanner Canada’s guide on the best destinations to experience the northern lights in Canada.
