Island Hopping in Iceland: Heimaey & Flatey Guides

Iceland is a nature paradise of amazing beauty, and witnessing the Northern Lights is one of the most amazing things to do there. This stunning show, with the lively dance of colors in the Arctic sky is on many travelers’ wish lists. To make sure you do not miss out on this in a lifetime chance, it’s vital to visit in the best time to witness the Northern Lights in Iceland which is roughly between late September and mid-April.

If you are considering a trip to Iceland, one of the numerous available Iceland tour packages might help you arrange your vacation. These packages usually have guided tours to best viewing spots for the aurora as well as the chance to visit Iceland’s beautiful landscapes during the day. With the right package, you can concentrate on enjoying the natural marvel of Iceland including the Northern Lights without a thought of logistics.

Here is the best time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland

                                                               

1. Late September to October

This early stage of aurora season provides a great combination of moderate weather and growing darkness. You still have a lot of daylight to sightsee those landscapes of Iceland, and at night you have a decent chance of seeing the lights. The skies are not as stormy as in deep winter so, your chances of seeing the auroras are higher. Plus, fall colours and fewer people make this a period of travel that is charming.

2. November to February

These months offer the longest nights and darkest sky so it is the best time to see the Northern Lights. However, this is also Iceland’s coldest season and snowfall and icy conditions in many areas. The reward? A mystical Arctic landscape and many aurora sightings. Just remember to dress warmly and be flexible with your plans in case weather conditions will mess with your visibility.

3. March to Mid-April

As winter retires and days lengthen, the Northern Lights continue to be seen. This is a perfect time for travelers seeking a combination of auroras watching at night and the countryside exploration during the day. The weather begins to relax as well, with better skies. The added daylight means that your road trips are safer and more scenic, and you’ll still get plenty of darkness in the evenings.

4. Thingvellir National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Thingvellir is one of the most visited spots to view the aurora because of its dark skies and wide-open views. It is accessible within 45 minutes drive from Reykjavik but it is far enough from city lights. The environment here contributes to the drama, with rough terrain and a serene lake that could mirror the colours of the sky giving a memorable viewing experience.

5. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Picture Northern Lights dancing over icebergs this is what is in store at Jökulsárlón. This Iceland glacier lagoon in the southeast coast is not just beautiful to look at, but it’s also a top spot for viewing aurora. The icy water nicely reflects the lights making mirror like scenes. The quiet surroundings with the opportunity to see seals and glowing ice chunks results in one of the most photogenic memories of seeing the aurora.

6. Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Frequently called “Iceland in Miniature”, the territory is a real paradise for lovers of the different landscapes volcanoes, black sand beaches, lava fields, and etc. all under relatively clear skies. Its remote location makes it virtually free of light pollution, making it perfect for aurora viewing. This area is also not as crowded as some other popular areas, and so you’ll have a more peaceful and private experience of the spectacular northern skies.

 7. Join a Northern Lights Tour

Guided tours are your best bet if you’re serious about seeing the auroras. Local guides monitor weather and solar conditions in real time and take you to the best possible locations every night. Most tours have flexible schedules and can be rescheduled if the lights do not show up the first time. Whether by super-jeep, boat, or bus, guided tours improve your chances of success while ensuring you’re safe and brought up to date.

8. Use Forecast Tools and Stay Flexible

Aurora is a natural phenomenon, so patients and flexible are essential. Keep an eye on aurora forecasts through apps or the Icelandic Met Office website. Be on the move at short notice and stay up late. Occasionally, the best shows are after midnight. Leave your nights open and your expectations open may not get lights every night, but when you do, it is definitely worth the wait.

Conclusion

Seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland is simply fantastic, but it requires some planning and a little luck. If you are in the right place at the right time, and use the right strategy, you can drastically improve your chances of witnessing this celestial spectacle. The magic between the auroras and the raw untouched beauty of Iceland means an unforgettable trip you will cherish for years.

To ensure that you get the best of your adventure, take a look at our well-planned Iceland tour packages. Whether you’re after a romantic retreat, a family holiday, or a solo adventure our Iceland holiday packages are designed to suit all budgets and travel preferences. Leave the planning to us all you need to do is look up and enjoy the show.