Discovering The Northern Lights: A Guide To Iceland's Stunning Auroras

The breathtaking ribbons of colour that make up the Northern Lights are a sight remembered forever by those lucky enough to have witnessed them. The experience is surreal, with vibrant hues of blue, green, pink, and violet dancing across the night sky. From its latitude at 65 degrees north, Iceland stands as one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis. The Northern Light belt generally lies between 65 and 72 degrees north, and the further you venture above 66, the greater your chances of witnessing this phenomenal display of nature.

One notable advantage of traveling to Iceland to catch a glimpse of the aurora is its relatively mild climate. Thanks to the Gulf Stream, it tends to be warmer than other Northern Lights hotspots in Scandinavia, especially if you visit in September or March, when the average nighttime temperature hovers around 4°C. If you’re looking to capture the mystical beauty of the Northern Lights, clear and cloudless skies are essential, and Iceland offers numerous remote spots free from light pollution. The country's diverse landscapes—ranging from majestic waterfalls and towering cliffs to serene glaciers and unique rock formations—provide perfect backdrops for photographing the lights as they illuminate the night sky.

While there's never a guarantee that you'll spot the Northern Lights during your Icelandic adventure, your chances increase significantly by venturing into dark, non-urban areas surrounded by nature. We've compiled a list of some of the best destinations in Iceland for stargazing, along with essential details to help you plan the ultimate bucket list trip!