Iceland is one of the best places in the world to witness the northern lights, attracting over 40% of its winter visitors specifically to witness this natural phenomenon, according to Arctic Today.
With its dark skies and minimal light pollution from September until April, Iceland has many places to see the phenomenon. Whether you choose to take a guided tour or rent a car and adventure yourself, here are 15 locations where you can see the northern lights in Iceland.
3 best spots for northern lights in Reykjavik
Even in the capital city of Iceland, Reykjavik, you can still see the northern lights without having to go too far from the city. Although urban light pollution can sometimes diminish the brightness of the auroras, several spots in and around the city provide excellent opportunities to catch a glimpse of the lights when the conditions are right.
On nights with clear skies and high aurora activity, the vibrant colors can be seen dancing above the city skyline.
1. Grotta lighthouse
Located on the Seltjarnarnes Peninsula, only about 10 minutes from the city center by car, Grotta Lighthouse is a popular spot for northern lights hunting. The area has minimal light pollution, and the lighthouse makes a great focal point for long-exposure photos of the lighthouse.
During strong solar activity, the auroras can often be seen vividly over the lighthouse, with reflections shimmering in the surrounding waters. It’s a serene spot where the night sky feels within arm’s reach.
2. Perlan on Öskjuhlið Hill
Perlan is a landmark building with an iconic glass dome and a 360-degree viewing platform offering panoramic views of Reykjavik. Located on Öskjuhlið Hill, it’s a great spot to watch the northern lights without having to leave the city.
The elevated position and wide-open sky provide an excellent vantage point for observing auroral displays, especially on nights when the aurora forecast suggests high activity. The contrast of the dancing lights against the city’s backdrop creates a magical atmosphere.
3. The Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon in Iceland is famous for its geothermal spa, but it’s also an unforgettable place to experience the northern lights. There’s nothing quite like soaking in the mineral-rich waters of this popular Iceland hot spring with the Aurora Borealis overhead. On nights with clear skies, the lagoon offers a perfect blend of relaxation and wonder as the lights swirl above, creating a surreal and tranquil environment.
5 best spots for northern lights in South Iceland
South Iceland is home to some of the country’s most famous attractions, and it’s also a prime region for northern lights viewing. This region offers diverse landscapes, from vast glaciers to iconic waterfalls, providing stunning settings for aurora photography. The ease of access from Reykjavik makes it a popular choice for those looking to explore some of Iceland’s best sights while keeping an eye on the sky for auroral activity.
4. The Golden Circle – Thingvellir National Park & Gullfoss
The Golden Circle is the most popular tourist route in the country, with tons of landmarks on the 230-kilometer (140-mile) loop. Along the route, there are many opportunities to view the northern lights. Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is stunning at night, with the lights reflecting off its lakes.
Gullfoss, a massive waterfall, is another must-visit spot that looks amazing under the northern lights. Watching the lights from these historical and natural landmarks is an experience like no other, especially when the forecast predicts strong aurora activity and clear skies.
5. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, filled with floating icebergs, creates an otherworldly environment for watching the northern lights. The contrast between the glowing sky, sparkling icebergs and the clear waters of the lagoon is unique to anywhere else in the country.
This site, far from urban light pollution, allows for breathtaking reflections of the auroras in the icy water, making it a top destination for photographers seeking that perfect shot.
6. Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Close to Jökulsárlón, Fjallsárlón is a quieter, less-visited glacier lagoon. The solitude of the lagoon and the icy landscape, along with the lights overhead, make this location ideal for a more peaceful experience.
With fewer tourists, you can enjoy the northern lights in a more intimate setting, surrounded by the raw beauty of Icelandic nature.
7. Reynisfjara black sand beach
Sitting on the Reynisfjara black sand beach with the dark basalt columns behind heightens the colors of the northern lights to another level. While it’s a fantastic spot for photography, be cautious and stay well away from the unpredictable waves. The stark contrast between the black sand and the vibrant auroras creates an ethereal scene, especially when the aurora forecast indicates strong solar activity.
8. Skogafoss & Seljalandsfoss waterfalls
Both Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss are stunning Iceland waterfalls that become even more magical under the northern lights. The area around these waterfalls is dark, making it perfect for Aurora hunting. Just remember to keep your distance from the water’s edge for safety. Watching the lights dance over these powerful waterfalls is an awe-inspiring sight that captures the wild spirit of Iceland.
2 best spots for northern lights in East Iceland
Fewer tourists visit East Iceland; however, it has some of the most beautiful and isolated spots to see the northern lights.
9. Vestrahorn mountain
Vestrahorn, also known as the “Batman Mountain,” has jagged peaks and a reflective lagoon that create a dramatic setting for northern lights photography.
10. Vatnajokull National Park
As one of the largest national parks in Europe, Vatnajokull National Park has many landscapes where you can enjoy the Northern Lights with glaciers, volcanoes, and ice caves.
3 best spots for northern lights in North Iceland
North Iceland offers some great viewing spots for the northern lights, with generally fewer crowds and low levels of light pollution as it is sparsely populated. The region’s remote locations and vast open spaces provide ideal conditions for aurora sightings, especially on nights when the aurora forecast is favorable.
With fewer tourists compared to the south, North Iceland provides a quieter and more personal experience of the auroras, making it perfect for those looking to enjoy the lights in peace.
11. Goðafoss
Goðafoss, the “Waterfall of the Gods,” has a 12-meter drop and a horseshoe shape that makes a stunning backdrop for the northern lights. It’s easy to access by car and has a viewing platform that gives visitors a great vantage point.
During high solar activity, the auroras illuminate the water with ethereal greens and purples, creating a dramatic and breathtaking scene. The powerful flow of Goðafoss contrasts beautifully with the stillness of the night sky, making it a favorite spot for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.
12. Lake Mývatn
Lake Mývatn is a volcanic lake surrounded by lava fields and geothermal hot springs. There are several hotels and Iceland camping sites nearby, making it a convenient spot to view the northern lights and explore the rest of the area.
The geothermal activity also means you can warm up in the natural hot springs while waiting for the auroras to appear, adding a special touch to your northern lights adventure. On nights with clear skies and minimal cloud cover, the lake’s reflective surface often mirrors the lights, doubling the spectacle.
13. Ásbyrgi Canyon
Ásbyrgi Canyon is a horseshoe-shaped canyon with 100-meter-high cliffs believed to have been formed by a massive flood caused by glacial melt. There is a lot of Icelandic wildlife in the area, and it’s a serene and sheltered area where you can experience the Aurora.
As the lights play over the sheer cliffs and the tranquil, sheltered floor of the canyon, it feels as though you’ve stepped into a hidden world. The surrounding forest adds a mystical element to the setting, making it a must-visit spot when staying in Iceland and hoping to witness the auroras away from the crowds.
2 best spots for northern lights in West Iceland
West Iceland is known for its dramatic landscapes and remote locations, perfect for an uninterrupted northern lights experience. This region offers some of the darkest skies in Iceland, free from light pollution and with ample opportunity to find secluded spots to enjoy the auroras in solitude.
West Iceland’s combination of rugged coastlines, towering mountains, and historic sites makes it a fantastic area for both aurora viewing and day-time exploration.
14. Snæfellsnes Peninsula
The Snæfellsnes Peninsula is often called “Iceland in Miniature” because it features a little bit of everything: glaciers, lava fields, and black sand beaches. Kirkjufell, a mountain on the peninsula, is particularly famous for photography of northern lights.
The mountain’s dramatic silhouette against the backdrop of the auroras creates one of the most recognizable and picturesque scenes in Iceland. Whether you’re exploring the lava fields or standing on the black sand beaches, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula offers diverse settings for experiencing the northern lights, all within a relatively compact area that’s easy to navigate by car.
15. Westfjords area
The Westfjords in Iceland are one of the country’s most remote and least-visited regions, and they offer some of the darkest skies in the country. Towns like Ísafjörður provide a perfect base for exploring the area, where you can enjoy the northern lights away from the crowds.
The dramatic fjords and steep mountains that characterize this region create a stunning natural amphitheater for the auroras. The Westfjords’ isolation means that on a clear night, the stars and northern lights dominate the sky without competition from artificial lights, offering some of the most pristine viewing conditions in Iceland.
The area’s rugged beauty and unspoiled wilderness provide an unparalleled backdrop for witnessing the lights, making it a top destination for those looking to stay in Iceland and experience the auroras in their most undisturbed form.
Quick tips on getting higher chances to see aurora in Iceland
The key to a successful aurora sighting is to monitor the aurora forecast closely, paying attention to cloud cover and solar activity, which can greatly affect your chances. Staying in Iceland offers the flexibility to visit these breathtaking spots, and with the freedom of your own rental car, you can chase clear night skies wherever the forecast is most favorable.
When and How to See the Northern Lights in Iceland
The best time to see the northern lights in Iceland is from late September to early April, when the nights are long and the skies are dark enough to see the auroras clearly. To increase your chances of witnessing this natural spectacle, it’s essential to check the aurora forecast, which provides information on expected solar activity and cloud cover.
High solar activity combined with clear skies offers the best opportunity for spotting the lights. The aurora forecast ranges from 0 to 9, with higher numbers indicating stronger activity. A forecast of 3 or higher usually suggests a good chance of seeing the lights, provided the cloud cover is minimal.
While it’s possible to see the northern lights from various locations, the most optimal viewing conditions involve finding a spot with minimal artificial light and a clear view of the northern horizon. Renting a car gives you the freedom to chase the auroras across Iceland, allowing you to move away from cloudy areas and into clearer skies.
Many visitors also choose to join a guided northern lights tour, where experienced guides can take you to the best spots based on real-time conditions.
Road Conditions and Weather Expectations in Iceland During Winter
Winter in Iceland can be unpredictable, with rapidly changing weather conditions that can affect travel plans. Roads can be icy, and snowstorms may reduce visibility, making driving challenging for those unfamiliar with winter driving.
It’s crucial to check the weather and road conditions regularly, as well as to ensure your rental car is equipped with winter tires and the necessary safety equipment. The main roads, like Route 1, are usually well-maintained, but secondary roads can be more hazardous.
Travelers should be prepared for strong winds, heavy snowfall, and sudden drops in temperature. Always dress in warm layers and keep essentials in your car, such as blankets, snacks, and a charged phone.
Keep an eye on weather alerts and consider staying in Icelandic accommodations close to your aurora viewing locations to reduce travel time during poor weather conditions. By staying informed and prepared, you can safely enjoy the magical experience of witnessing the northern lights against Iceland’s stunning winter landscapes.
Catch a glimpse of the northern lights in Iceland
There’s no doubt that Iceland is one of the best places in the world to see the northern lights. From the more convenient spots around Reykajvik to the remote areas in the Westfjords, there are many spots around the country where you can experience the phenomenon. For the best chance to experience all these breathtaking locations, book a rental car with Hertz Iceland and explore the northern lights at your own pace.
