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Best Northern Lights Tours in Iceland

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8-Day Northern Lights Winter Self-Drive Tour of West and South Iceland with Ice Caving

Affordable 3 Hour Northern Lights Bus Tour with Transfer from Reykjavík

Northern Lights Super Jeep Tour with a Photographer Guide & Transfer from Reykjavik

Amazing 2 Hour Northern Lights Cruise with Transfer from Reykjavik Harbor

Northern Lights Bus Tour with Transfer from Reykjavik

Amazing 5-Day Northern Lights Winter Vacation Package in Iceland with Ice Caving & the Blue Lagoon

Magical 2 Hour Northern Lights Boat Cruise with Transfer from Reykjavik

3-Day Northern Lights Tour of Iceland’s Golden Circle & South Coast with Ice Caving & Glacier Hiking

Best 7-Day Northern Lights Self Drive Tour Through South Iceland to Jokulsarlon Ice Cave

2 Day Ice Cave Tour with South Coast Waterfalls & Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Breathtaking 6-Day Northern Lights Hunting Package of Iceland with Ice Caving

8-Day Guided Northern Lights Winter Tour of the Complete Ring Road of Iceland

Northern Lights & Golden Circle Tour with Audio Guide & Transfer from Reykjavik

Magical 3 Hour Northern Lights Tour with an Audio Guide in 10 Languages & Transfer from Reykjavik

Northern Lights Mystery

Small Group 6-Day Northern Lights Winter Tour of the Complete Ring Road of Iceland

7-Day Northern Lights Winter Vacation Package with Ice Caving

Northern Lights Tour With Photographer

Magical 4-Hour Aurora Museum and Northern Lights Minibus Tour from Reykjavik

2 Day Northern Lights & Ice Cave Tour with Glacier Hiking & Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Small Group 4-Day Northern Lights Winter Vacation Package with Golden Circle & South Coast

Serene 2-3 Hour Northern Lights Boat Tour from Reykjavik

2 in 1 Bundle Discount Tours | All National Parks & Ice Caving

2-Day West Coast & Snaefellsnes Peninsula with Lava Caving & Northern Lights Tour

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Vacation Packages in Iceland

Self drive tours in iceland, tour calendar, nature tours in iceland, adventure tours in iceland, cheap bus tours in iceland, top tour destinations in iceland, verified customer reviews.

Read first-hand reviews by customers from across the world

I wish Ytri-Tunga was longer so I could see more seals but otherwise I loved the mountains! Very pretty ride and stops. I also loved napping during the ride. My favorite facts are there's only been 1 serial killer in Iceland in the last 500+ years and that there's prison that's more like a 2* hotel XD

Nicholas Tahernia

Addi was the guide for my tour, and I greatly appreciated the tour he gave us. He took us to every stop and even some added ones because we had extra time, and he gave great insight into the history of Iceland and everywhere we went. He is also hilarious and a fun person to be around. I would highly recommend the tour and if you can get Addi as your guide, then it will be amazing for sure.

Dreichen Jung

I recently joined Tröll Expeditions on their 8-day Iceland Ring Road tour, and I had an absolutely amazing time! Our guide, John, was knowledgeable, humorous, and engaging. He kept us entertained with interesting stories and facts about Iceland, and he even curated a playlist of Icelandic and English songs to match the scenery and mood of our journey. Although one day of our itinerary had to be changed due to bad weather, John did his best to find alternative activities and make the most of the situation. He also took us to several hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path locations, which made the trip even more special. The 8-day itinerary was well-paced, with enough time to explore each stop. Tröll packed in a lot of exciting activities, including glacier hiking, exploring a blue ice cave, whale watching, visiting a lava cave, relaxing in the Vök baths, and horseback riding on Icelandic horses. I visited Iceland in March-April, which is a great time to see the Northern Lights and explore the blue ice caves. However, the weather can be unpredictable, so I highly recommend joining a guided tour instead of driving yourself. Overall, I highly recommend Tröll Expeditions. It was a truly exciting and unforgettable Iceland trip! 我參加了 Tröll Expeditions 的冰島八日環島行，先說結論，非常推薦！！ 因為這次要帶著年紀較大的媽媽，自己又沒有雪地駕車經驗 出發前冰島大部分心得也都是自駕，台灣當地出發的冰島環島旅行團又都超級貴 衡量之下就報名了冰島當地的Tröll Expeditions （當時也有比較arctic adventures，但arctic adventures的環島團只有七天，覺得太趕） 導遊 John 非常認真、風趣，講解生動活潑，他還會在遊覽車上播放英文和冰島語歌單，搭配沿途的風景和情境，讓旅程更加有趣！ 雖然有一天的行程因天氣因素無法按照原定計畫進行，但 John 還是非常盡力地規劃替代行程，旅途中也帶我們去了許多秘境私人景點，讓我對冰島有了更深入的了解 八日環島的行程雖然還是有點趕，但每個景點都還算是有充足的時間可以好好遊覽。 Tröll 的行程安排也非常棒，包含了冰川健行、藍冰洞、賞鯨、熔岩洞穴、Vök 浴池和冰島馬騎乘等六項活動，都超級值得體驗！ 我是在 3-4 月前往冰島，雖然天氣寒冷，但日照時間長，還可以抓住冬天尾巴可以看到藍冰洞景觀和好幾天的極光。但由於冰島春季路況多變，許多地方也還有下雪，沒有雪地自駕經驗建議還是參加冰島當地的旅行團。

Maja Nuoffer

Fantastic travel company-- well-organized with responsive, polite and accommodating staff. The Northern Lights were an incredible, once in a lifetime experience. The tour guides were fantastic, and the views breathtaking. Highly recommend and will be using this travel company in the future.

What are the Northern Lights?

The northern lights, otherwise known as the Aurora Borealis, are phenomena that occur at high latitudes when solar particles ionise as they enter the earth's atmosphere, appearing in the night sky in the form of waving ribbons of colour. These ‘ribbons’ have captivated their viewers for centuries, bringing about defying awe and unspeakable mystery.

The northern lights are, in fact, occurring throughout the year, yet it is only during the dark winter nights that they become visible to the human eye. This is, naturally, what makes northern light hunting one of the most popular winter activities in Iceland. You can partake in numerous tours that take you to the best northern lights spotting locations, such as an affordable Northern Lights Bus Tour that takes you far away from the city's light-pollution, or a Northern Lights Boat Cruise that allows you to witness the auroras out on the open sea. Outside of Scandinavia, it is only possible to go northern light hunting in such places as Alaska, northern Canada and Siberia. 

Modern scientific understanding of the northern lights did not mature until the 1880's when researchers discovered their connection to solar activity. Further study, seventy years later, would deepen this revelation, with new breakthroughs made in the knowledge that electrons and protons travel to earth on a ‘solar wind’. Today, research is ongoing into the northern lights as we further our understanding of deep space and our connection to it.

The northern lights have long been known to the Scandinavian people, inspiring some of the greatest and longstanding tales to have ever come out of Norse Mythology.

One of the most prominent of these relates to Ragnarök, a great future battle that, as foretold, will see the world submerged in water, and a significant number of the Gods dead, including the likes of Odin, Thor and Loki. After the events of Ragnarök, it is said that the world will be born anew, strengthening the ancient themes of birth, death and rebirth.

To prepare for this battle, Odin, the Chieftain of Asgard, would summon his most prized warriors, the Valkyries, female battle-maidens who rode on horseback carrying spears and shields. Ancient stories would surmise that the northern lights were a reflection of this Valkyrian armour.

Another widely spoken about interpretation is that the aurora was the ‘Bifrost Bridge’, a rainbow walkway that led deceased warriors into the glorious, glowing halls of Valhalla.

To the Icelandic Vikings, the aurora was a phenomenon to be celebrated, a popular trend that has continued to this day with countless Northern Lights tours taking place across the land of Ice and Fire. Neighbouring Scandinavians, however, were less than trustful.

Many Norse people, such as the indigenous Finno-Ugric people, the Sámi, felt that the lights were to be feared. Believing these dancing green, red and yellow light waves to be the souls of the dead, the Sámi were careful to never show any sign of disrespect towards the lights, be that whistling beneath them, singing, talking or even waving them to them.

It is said, that those who fail to heed these warnings will be pulled up into the sky, forever trapped among these nocturnal spirits. Due to this slumbering myth, it is thought that some Sámi people, even today, will not go outside when the northern lights dance above.

It is perhaps the Finnish who have the most beautiful allegory for the auroras, believing them to be created by the arctic fox, an animal that just so happens to be Iceland’s only native mammal. The Finnish name for the aurora translates to “Fire Fox”, a direct reference to the ethereal fox that would dash so quickly across the night sky that his tail would brush against the mountains, thus causing a vast and colourful outburst of sparks.

Still, another interpretation of the Arctic fox story differs somewhat, and provides some justification on the part of an ancient people as to why the lights only appeared in winter; instead of sparks, the fox’ tail was thought to have kicked up snowflakes into the air which then caught the light of the moon.

When it comes down to the folklore of Iceland particularly, it was believed that the northern lights helped to soothe the pain of childbirth, though women who had yet to give birth were warned not to look at them directly, in fear that the child would be born cross-eyed.

During your visit in Iceland, you have the option of seeing the northern lights on your own. But should you want to view them from the best spots, far away from the light-pollution of human settlements, you would be well advised to take a northern lights tour, in which a knowledgeable guide tells you all there is to know about this fantastic phenomenon.

Frequently asked questions

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Northern Lights Tours & Trips in Iceland

Imagine gazing into the twinkling night sky and witnessing the spectacular neon phenomenon of the Aurora Borealis from the grounds of Iceland. With 61 Northern Lights adventures lasting from 2 days to 12 days, you're sure to find the right trip for you. Click here to see all northern lights trips .

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61 northern lights tour packages in iceland with 2,113 reviews.

• Northern Lights
• Christmas & New Year

5 Day - Snaefellsnes, South Coast and Northern Lights

I did a two and three day combo tour with my 11 year old daughter. It was packed with so many things to do. This tour was a great mix of action and sightseeing. Our guides were so friendly, knowledgeable, and fun! Highly recommend!

4 Day - Northern Lights, Snæfellsnes & Glacier Lagoon

Great tour, short but hit all the places that were on the initinery and the pick up from the hotel was very swift and easy. The guides for the 2 trips were friendly. I love how Mahlia (or Maria?) added her personal touch and stories to the pitch on the bus. I had a great trip in Iceland and want to come back again in different seasons.

Northern Lights Escape

I had only some problems with the payment, because it didnt accept my card at first. But the entire trip was so beautifull, happy i did it.

Iceland Northern Lights & Golden Circle

Excellent in all respects. Cannot recommend it highly enough.

Iceland Luxury Adventure - *Winter Northern Light, Winter Wonders & Blue Lagoon Retreat*

The Magical of Northern Lights Circle Tour (8 days / 7 nights)* Experience Iceland in all its Winter Glory*

Northern Lights Exploration (Small Group) - 8 days

Six Days in Iceland

7 Days Self-drive | Golden Circle, South Coast, Snæfellsnes and Reykjavik

Overall, Iceland is incredible and the sights included in the tour were amazing. The itinerary could be more detailed with time spent driving, what time certain attractions close, etc. We found ourselves driving all the way someplace just to find it closed, or not making it back to the hotel in time to eat dinner. Also, we booked a few extras through the tour like admission to the Blue Lagoon and a glacier hike. Then I learned that it's much less expensive to book directly with the lagoons and other attractions.

Land of the Northern Lights - 5 days

Overall I rated good as it fulfill our northern lights wishes satisfactory. Thank you

7 Days ICELAND | REYKJAVIK, GOLDEN CIRCLE & SOUTH COAST (Group Tour)

I really enjoyed this trim, for a first timer, it was perfect. If you have visited before I'd suggest a more in depth exploring of a particular feature, next time i want to climb the volcano. I was ready to come back home after all the activities, not really, but my body was! Lol. No hiccups, smooth sailing all the time, except for my baggage being delayed, lol. Awesome, awesome, awesome!

Iceland Inspired featuring the Northern Lights

My husband and I travelled on the Iceland In-Depth tour in October 2022. We wanted to experience more than just Reykjavik and see the northern lights. This 8 day tour did not disappoint. Our hotels were all incredible and the included meals excellent. Our guide even took us for hot dogs! Yes, hot dogs! An incredible cheap delicacy. Everything was flawless. If you really want to see Iceland, we recommend this tour.

• £100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

5 Days Land of Northern Lights

Very good balance in activities and venues. Timings excellent so we were never with crowds. Especial praise for our tour guide Piotr who was not only very knowledgeable and helpful but also good balance of talk/no talk and humour - really excellent guide.

8 Days Northern Lights Exploration

The trip was fantastic! Holme was extremely knowledgeable and fun. She set a great tone for the trip and made it even more enjoyable. She clearly went above and beyond in her flexibility when unexpected things happened. Her stories were lovely and a welcome insight into Icelandic culture.

6 day Guided tour | Hidden Powers & Northern Lights Hunt - Small Group

Although we did not get to see the Northern Lights we still had a great time. Iceland is filled with beautiful sights. Our guide tour Haruno was excellent. He was informative and entertaining.

What people love about Northern Lights Tours in Iceland

Overall the guides and drivers were excellent - in their knowledge, driving safety, preparing the group for activities that were next on the list. The only down time during the day was some of the distances between stops. But not an issue as we were well aware of that before hand. A good value for the cost!!

Absolutely a fantastic trip on every way. Great trip leader. Stefan!

Regions in Iceland

• South Iceland (38)
• Iceland South Coast (24)
• West Iceland (5)

Travel Styles

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• Iceland Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
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The 7 Best Iceland Northern Lights Tours [2024 Reviews]

One of the most magical experiences anyone can have is seeing the Aurora Borealis dance across the night sky in an explosion of shapes and vivid colors.

If viewing the Northern Lights is on your bucket list, Iceland is undoubtedly the best place to experience this natural light phenomenon in relative comfort.

From September to April every year, dedicated tour guides take excited visitors on nightly hunts to find ideal locations to observe the beauty of nature. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to join the fortunate few who have witnessed Nature’s most wonderful light show.

Be sure to see our reviews of Golden Circle Tours , Whale Watching Tours and ATV Tours .

Best Northern Lights Tours in Iceland

Quick answer: the 7 best rated iceland northern lights tours.

• Best Value Tour: Small-Group Premium Northern Lights Tour from Reykjavik
• Best Cruise Tour: Northern Lights by Boat from Reykjavik
• Best Private Tour: Northern Lights Private Tour from Reykjavik
• Best Adventure Tour: Reykjavik ATV & Northern Lights Tour
• Best Budget Cruise: Northern Lights Boat Cruise From Reykjavik
• Best Small Group Tour: 3-Hour Northern Lights Tour From Akureyri
• Best Multi-Day Tour: 4-Day Blue Ice Cave and Northern Lights Tour From Reykjavik

Read on for our favorite Northern Lights tours in Iceland providing overviews and highlighting the details of each. We also make recommendations on staying in Iceland in our guide section.

Iceland Northern Lights Tour Reviews

1. small-group premium northern lights tour from reykjavik.

• Departure Point : Pick up service from central Reykjavik hotels
• Departure Time : 9:30 PM
• Duration : 4 hours
• Includes : Experienced tour guide, a minibus ride into the countryside, refreshments, free-reschedule if you don’t see the Northern Lights, and free entry into the Aurora Museum

The minibus will pick you up from your hotel in Reykjavik and transport you into the depths of the Icelandic countryside. Here you will be leaving behind the light pollution of the city and seeking out the darkest places with the clearest patches of sky to view the world’s most famous light display.

With only 15 passengers on each tour, you will enjoy the intimacy of a small group sharing a journey of discovery as you hunt the Aurora Borealis.

The guide uses their local knowledge and experience, as well as communication with other guides, to find the most likely locations for clear viewing. Refreshments are provided while you continue your adventure—Icelandic donuts, hot chocolate, and fermented shark … if you’re brave enough.

The tour operators are so positive you will see the Northern Lights during your quest that they guarantee a free reschedule if you don’t. You can cancel your tour up to 24 hours beforehand with no charge. This tour also includes free entry to the Aurora Museum in Reykjavik.

More Information & Tour Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, other experiences you may enjoy:, 2. northern lights by boat in reykjavik.

• Departure Point : Reykjavik Old Harbor (Hotel pick-up available on request)
• Departure Time : 9 PM
• Duration : 2 hours
• Includes : Experienced tour guide, boat cruise, knowledgeable guide, and onboard Wi-Fi

This is a unique and effective way of hunting for a good vantage point to view the Northern Lights unhindered by surrounding landmarks or any light pollution.

Join the friendly, experienced, and knowledgeable crew aboard a luxury boat in Reykjavik Old Harbor and sail into the North Atlantic Ocean.

You will get great views of the city lights and distant mountains. Within 30 minutes, the boat will reach a location free from light pollution where you have an excellent chance of viewing a spectacular light display.

There is Wi-Fi aboard the boat so don’t delay uploading your unique photographs of the Aurora Borealis onto your Facebook account and Instagram. Hot drinks and soup are provided.

If you need to cancel beforehand, there is free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour begins.

If the weather is too rough to set sail, you will be taken on a small private bus ride to hunt the Northern Lights on land. In addition, you will receive a free ticket for the next available boat tour.

3. Private Iceland Northern Lights Tour From Reykjavik

• Departure Point: Hotel pickup included
• Departure Time : 9:00 PM
• Duration : 3 hours
• Includes : Private tour, expert guide

This is a unique opportunity to view the Northern Lights with a private tour. You will go to one or more of these locations: Thingvellir National Park, Hvalfjordur and the Reykjanes Peninsula.

In this rugged environment, far from civilization and light pollution, you have an excellent chance of observing the Aurora Borealis and viewing a spectacular display of dancing colors and shapes in the dark night sky.

Although you will be provided with overalls, you should dress for freezing and changeable weather. It’s a glacier! Wear gloves, headcover, waterproof pants and jacket, and good outdoor shoes.

If you discover that you cannot make the tour, free cancellation is allowed up to 24 hours before the tour begins.

4. Reykjavik ATV & Northern Lights Tour

• Departure Point : Pick up from all Reykjavik hotels and guest houses
• Duration : 6 – 8 hours
• Includes : Experienced tour guide, bus ride into the countryside, blankets, use of a camera

If you are looking for something a little different and exciting, try this northern lights tour by ATV!

You will join a small and intimate group of fellow Aurora Borealis hunters to ride deep into the Icelandic countryside in search of places free from light pollution with clear skies to view this solar wind phenomenon.

An experienced tour guide will use meteorological forecasts, their local knowledge, and intuition to find the best locations and also answer any questions you may have about the Northern Lights.

While seeking the light, you will have the chance to sample delicious Icelandic chocolate while you huddle under the warm blanket provided for your comfort during the cold Icelandic night.

Once you’ve found the world’s greatest light show, don’t worry if your camera can’t capture all the dramatic patterns and shapes dancing overhead.

You will be offered the use of a camera capable of picking out the spectacular variations of colored light in the sky.

If you don’t see the Northern Lights during your tour, you will be offered another opportunity to seek the light free of charge, and if for any reason you can’t make the tour, free cancellation is permitted up to 24 hours before the activity begins.

5. Northern Lights Boat Cruise From Reykjavik

• Departure Point: Hlésgata, 101 Reykjavik Harbor
• Includes : Expert guide, 2-hour cruise, Wi-Fi, onboard toilets, and warm flotation overalls

After meeting at Reykjavik Harbor, experience a 2-hour cruise into the North Atlantic Ocean in search of an ideal location from which to observe and photograph the Northern Lights.

Here you will be far from the noise and light pollution of the city. View the city from the sea while you enjoy refreshments and snacks purchased from a heated indoor bar,

Be sure to dress in the warm flotation overalls provided and step out onto the deck to enjoy the natural lightshow outside.

The Free Wi-Fi is great for uploading your amazing shots of dancing shapes and colors in the night sky onto your Instagram account.

If you get tired, there are seats both inside the cabin and out on the deck. Because the Aurora Borealis is a natural phenomenon, it is always possible that you won’t see the lights on any particular night. But don’t worry.

If you don’t see the Northern Lights on your first cruise, you will be offered the opportunity to try again another night. In the event that you cannot make the tour, free cancellation is permitted up to 24 hours before the cruise begins.

6.  3-Hour Northern Lights Tour From Akureyri

• Departure Point : Pick up from hotels and guest houses
• Includes : Knowledgeable guide, 3-hour minibus , Icelandic pastries, hot cocoa, and blankets

A small minibus picks you up from your guesthouse or hotel to join an intimate group of 17 other Northern Lights hunters and transports you out of the city.

Free from its noise and light pollution, deep into the remote and peaceful countryside of Iceland you can truly enjoy the show.

Snuggle under the blankets provided and enjoy traditional Icelandic pastries and hot cocoa while your expert guide strives to locate the best position to view the spectacular natural light display.

With 4 hours to spend, your minibus will travel deeper into the countryside than any other tour and spend longer searching for the lights. Don’t worry if you don’t see the Northern Lights on your first attempt.

This eager tour operator is determined that you will get to see the world’s most famous display of colors and shapes in the sky, so you will be offered a second and even a third opportunity to search with no extra charge.

If you still don’t see the Aurora Borealis after three attempts, you will receive a voucher entitling you to another trip at a future time. Free cancellations are offered up to 24 hours before the activity starts.

7. 4-Day Blue Ice Cave and Northern Lights Tour From Reykjavik

• Departure Point: Pick up service from Reykjavik
• Departure Time : 8 AM
• Duration : 4 days
• Includes : Expert guide, 3 nights hotel stay and breakfast, visits to 3 waterfalls, 2 geysers, a glacial lagoon, hike along a glacier, hunt for the Northern Lights, and explore inside an ice cave.

If you are dedicated to seeing the Northern Lights but also want to experience some of the other unique natural phenomena around Iceland, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore everything that Iceland has to offer.

Watch a geyser in action, view beautiful waterfalls, explore inside an ice cave, hike along a glacier, and observe the Aurora Borealis.

On the first day of your eventful tour, you will travel to southwestern Iceland and visit Geysir, the waterfall at Gullfoss, and Thingvellir National Park.

The geyser at Geysir is the most famous in the world, and the English word “geyser” is derived from its place name.

You will also see Strokkur geyser nearby, which sprays hot water up to 98 feet into the sky every few minutes, much more frequently than its more famous neighbor. After an action-packed day, relax at a hotel in Hvolsvöllur.

On the second day, you will move on to southern Iceland and visit Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls. Following that, experience a hike across a glacier at Solheimajökull and marvel at the icy landscape of this sublime natural landmark.

Next, you will see the black sand beach at Reynisfjara before visiting Skaftafell Nature Reserve. Before heading back to the hotel, your expert guide will take you on a night hunt for the highlight of the trip—the Aurora Borealis.

On the third day, you will begin with an unforgettable trek inside a spectacular ice cave. Following that, you will visit  Jökulsarlon glacial lagoon.

The icebergs floating in the blue waters will astound you, and if the place looks familiar, that’s because it was used as a setting in many movies, including A View to a Kill , Die Another Day , Batman Begins , Beowulf and Grendel , and Lara Croft Tomb Raider .

Finally, you will return to Reykjavik filled with a wealth of memories.

Iceland Travel Guide

There are many reasons the Land of Fire and Ice has seen an explosion in tourism since 2019. Not only can you see the Northern Lights, active volcanoes, glaciers, and puffins, you can also relax in a geothermal spa and even bake bread inside a pot buried underground.

What you decide to do in this fascinating country is your choice, but you should take the time to do some research before you go. This guide is here to inform you where you can go, what you can do, and how you can get there, because we want you to have the best vacation of your life in Iceland.

Airports & Entry

Most visitors to Iceland arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF). Although Iceland only has a population of 359 thousand people, in 2018 this busy airport handled 9.8 million passengers. Despite the number of visitors, there is only one terminal. You will find the check-in times minimal, with an average 20-minute waiting time at the security check.

Inside the terminal, you will find everything clearly signposted in English. Charging points for cellphones and laptops are provided in the waiting area along with free Wi-Fi.

Strollers are provided for children, and there is a dedicated kids’ play area. The usual selection of food outlets and shops are found on the upper floor of the main building. Manned information stands are located throughout the airport.

It is 30 miles from the airport to Reykjavik, the capital city. The speed limit is 55 mph, but the drive usually takes 50 minutes due to traffic. Shuttle bus services link KEF to the city, which you can book in advance online or pay for at the airport.

Some hotels offer airport collection, and you should ask about that when you book your room. You can, of course, jump in a taxi at the airport, but it will be extremely expensive compared to the airport bus service. Car rental is available at the airport, but it is advisable to book in advance.

Planning Tips

With so many exciting things to do and see in Iceland, you’re guaranteed to have a great holiday. However, things do not always go to plan, so here are 5 tips to help you make the most of your visit.

Tip #1: If you want to see the Aurora Borealis, go between September and March

It’s easier to view the Northern Lights when the sky is at its darkest. In Iceland, the nights are especially long between September and March, but the sky doesn’t grow dark enough to view this magical phenomenon during the summer months. However, do not plan a visit around a full moon, because its light can dampen the impact of this natural light display. The best days to go are around the time of a new moon.

Tip #2: Check out the SolarHam website

If you are especially interested in the Aurora Borealis and want to earn your Geek Badge, check out the SolarHam website. This techy site provides a 3-day geomagnetic forecast, which is useful for aurora hunters to select the best time to view the Northern Lights. The same site provides a satellite map of where the natural light show is right now, so you can look up if you’re near.

Tip #3: Take your time to enjoy all the attractions of Iceland

There’s so much to see in Iceland, it would be a crime not to explore and experience as much as you are able in the time you have. While you are there, do not miss the opportunity to see so many unforgettable natural phenomena in one place. There is nowhere else on the planet where you can see active volcanoes, glaciers, and or ice caves , all in one national park. For an unforgettable experience be sure to take a snowmobile tour , ATV tour of the national park!

Tip #4: Book everything in advance, especially in winter

Tourism is on the rise in Iceland, and hotel rooms, tours, and attractions get fully-booked ahead of time.  Don’t miss out on seeing the Northern Lights from the best vantage point possible because all the tours were booked-up before you arrived. Many tours like the ones detailed above offer a 24-hour-in-advance free cancellation, so you take no financial risk booking. Ask about free cancellation when buying your ticket. If you are interested in a horseback riding tour be sure to book it at least a few months in advance as they are very popular!

Tip #5: Impress your friends with quintessentially Icelandic souvenirs

The budget chain store Bonus stocks many unique Icelandic products, such as Omnom chocolate, Icelandic specialty teas, herbal sea salt blends, and licorice mixed with chocolate. At Bonus, you can pick up great, inexpensive gifts for your friends! Vinbuoin, the state-run liquor store, sells a fine selection of renowned Icelandic spirits, including Iceland’s signature tipple, Brennivin.

And if you like to sort through other folks’ debris for the hidden treasures, a special weekend market is held at Kolaportio in downtown Reykjavik where Icelanders come to sell off their unwanted goods when moving to a new house. You could find anything!

Restaurants & Eating Out

Because of Iceland’s geographical position and climate, vegetables and grains are rare in traditional foods, and many famous dishes focus on preserved seafood or meat. Also, food was scarce in yesteryears, so every part of an animal or fish was eaten. You’ll find many traditional meals involve fish or meat that is salted, smoked, dried, or fermented. Watch out for such culinary delights as baked sheep’s head and fermented shark.

Seafood restaurants are common throughout Iceland, and all serve “fish of the day”, which is usually salmon, monkfish, haddock, or cod. However, if you wish, you can seek out some of the more exotic options. Humar is a kind of lobster caught off the south coast of Iceland, renowned for its tender and tasty flesh.

It is served fried, baked or grilled, though it can also be found as a pizza topping! Plokkfishkur is a fish stew, made to the chef’s specific recipe but usually combining white fish with onions, potatoes, milk, and flour. Harofiskur is a snack you can buy in any grocery store. It is dried stockfish, eaten with butter or straight out of a bag.

Because it is difficult to grow wheat in Iceland, there are many traditional varieties of rye bread, like flatkaka, baked in thin disks on hot stones. One variety of rye bread you should try is rugbrauo, a sweet-tasting, dark bread.

The reason rugbrauo is so interesting for visitors to Iceland is that a common baking technique is to bury a dough-filled pot near one of the many hot springs, such as Fontana Hot Springs, and use geothermal heat to bake the bread. Rugbrauo baked that way is also called hyerabrauo (hot-spring bread).

Icelanders don’t only eat fish and rye bread. Sheep are the most common livestock in Iceland, so lamb is often on the menu. Sheep wander freely around the countryside, eating seaweed, grass, and berries, which tends to make lamb tender with a mild flavor.

Smoked lamb is called hangikjöt and is often served boiled during the winter holidays. Also watch out for varieties of meat you won’t see in most other countries, like puffin, horse, and whale. Despite international concern over puffins and whales, they are still commonly consumed in Iceland.

A meal on vacation isn’t complete without dessert. Popular local sweets include rugbrauosis (rye bread ice cream), pönnukökur (Icelandic pancakes), and snuour (cinnamon bread covered in caramel or chocolate). A dairy product unique to Iceland is skyr.

It is a kind of sour milk cheese eaten like yogurt and often sweetened and flavored with fruit or vanilla.

Nightlife & Entertainment

With long, cold nights throughout the winter, it’s no surprise Icelanders love their nightlife, and much of it is centered where most of the people live—Reykjavik. Because the capital is so small, most of the clubs and bars are within walking distance of one another. In fact, many are along one street, Laugavegur, the commercial artery of downtown.

Most social venues are informal and entrance fees rare. When Icelanders go out for the night, they tend to begin late, and many clubs and bars don’t get busy until after midnight. This is in part because alcohol in bars is expensive, so locals drink at home before setting out.

Many clubs and bars stay open as late as 5 am. Cocktail bars are a recent addition to Iceland’s nightlife, but with the booming tourist trade, they are rapidly expanding.

And don’t worry too much about safety at night. In 2019, the Institute for Economics and Peace in Sydney ranked Iceland the most peaceful nation on Earth for the 12 th year running. Crime rates in Reykjavik are probably lower than anywhere you have ever lived.

Getting Around

Iceland is a small country covering an area slightly smaller than Kentucky. If you wanted to drive from Reykjavik on the west coast to Faskruosfjorour on the east coast, the 425 miles route would take only 8½ hours.

However, because of its small population outside of the capital, you cannot rely on public transport to go sightseeing around the country or reach the best place to view the northern lights. This leaves you with two options: hiring a car or booking a coach tour, like the 3-day Golden Circle tour detailed above.

Within the capital and its immediate area, you do have more options: bus, taxi, bicycle, or walk. The public bus service is inexpensive and efficient, and you can ask for help to find the right bus from your hotel reception. Given that Reykjavik is so small a city, taxis are affordable.

If you want a little exercise, bicycle rentals are available in many hotels, and the city is crisscrossed by dedicated bicycle paths. If you decide to walk, make sure you wrap up well. The weather can deteriorate rapidly in Iceland.

Accommodations

Over the past few years, Iceland has seen a huge expansion in tourism. With a 378% increase since 2010, hotel rooms fill up quickly. Through Christmas and summer, hotels are usually fully booked. Since 228 of Iceland’s 359 thousand citizens live within the capital and its immediate hinterland, settlements throughout the rest of Iceland are small and rooms for visitors limited. Most hotels are in the capital.

You will probably find it most convenient to stay in Reykjavik. You will find a broad range of hotels there, it is near the airport, and many of the attractions along with most of the nightlife are found there or nearby. Many organized tours to other parts of Iceland and major tourist attractions set out from Reykjavik, such as most of the Northern Lights tours detailed above.

Within the downtown and central area of Reykjavik you will find a choice of luxury hotels, like the Hotel Borg downtown and The Icelandair Hotel Marina, overlooking the harbor. If you head a little more out of the center, you’ll find more affordable hostels, such as The Capital Inn and Bus Hostel Reykjavik .

There are some popular hotels outside of the capital near to tourist attractions, such as Hotel Skaftafell in the Vatnajökull National Park, which offers spectacular views of Iceland’s largest mountain, or Skyrhusid Guesthouse near Lake Jökulsarion in the south. Wherever you decide to stay, the important thing is to book in advance. If you don’t, you will miss out on the best rooms.

Iceland is not the place to go if you want year-round sunshine and dry weather. In fact, on 22 nd December there are only 4 hours of daylight, because that is the shortest day. That’s great if you want to see the Aurora Borealis, since it can only be seen during dark nights, but not so good for other sightseeing. In contrast, the longest day boasts 21 hours of daylight, 21 st June.

The “warm” summer period covers June, July, and August, with an average daily high of 55 0 F and a low of 46 0 F. Yes, 55 0 F is their summer high! Summers are short and cloudy. The winter period covers November through March, two months longer than summer, and is cold, wet, windy, and overcast, with frequent snow. The average daily high drops to 35 0 F in January with a low of 27 0 F.

If your main interest is the Northern Lights, you should go anytime September through March, because the sky is dark enough to view those fantastic electromagnetic displays. If the Aurora Borealis does not interest you, you’ll get the warmest weather and longer days from the end of June to mid-August.

Attractions

The Aurora Borealis is not the only unique and fascinating attraction in Iceland. The Land of Fire and Ice is the best place in the world to see and experience the majesty and power of two extremes in Nature: glaciers and volcanoes. These attractions are all part of what is called the “Golden Circle”. Taking a day tour of the Golden Circle with a guide is a great way to take in all of the best sights.

12 miles from KEF is the world-famous Blue Lagoon geothermal spa. Here you can laze in pools of hot, milky blue water heated by a lava flow. Nearby stands the Svartsengi Geothermal Power Plant, which uses superheated water from the lava flow to generate electricity and also provide heat for a municipal water heating system.

There are geothermal spas like the Blu Lagoon throughout Iceland, so wherever you choose to stay, you can find one near you and experience the power of molten rock.

If ice and Arctic landscapes interest you, head 140 miles east from Reykjavik to Vatnajökull National Park , which is centered on Vatnajökull glacier and the surrounding beautiful landscape. This park covers 14% of Iceland and is filled with glacial rivers and active volcanoes.

Vatnajökull glacier empties into the glacial lake of Jökulsarion in the south, where you can see 100-feet-tall icebergs freshly broken away from the glacier. Jökulsarion served as a setting in several major Hollywood movies. On your drive back to Reykjavik, you can see two beautiful waterfalls around Skogar. The first, Skogafoss, is an impressive waterfall and a popular destination for Icelandic day-trippers.

18 miles west of Skogafoss is picturesque Seljalandsfoss waterfall . A path allows sightseers to pass behind the curtain of water as it falls into the crystal-clear plunge pool.

If it’s man-made cultural and historical attractions you seek, you’ll find plenty to do and see around Reykjavik. The capital’s earliest history stretches back to 874, but it only became a true city in 1785.

Perhaps one of the most unique attractions is seeing the continental plates splitting apart at Silfra. Here the North American and Eurasian plates are separating. If you are daring you can take a snorkel tour of Silfra and see it for yourself!

Around Reykjavik, you’ll find an interesting assortment of museums and tourist attractions, like the National Museum of Iceland and the Reykjavik Maritime Museum.

A famous landmark visitors flock to see is the Hallgrimskirkja Church, which is the largest church in Iceland. This unique structure was designed by a local architect to resemble the glaciers and mountains of Iceland.

Tour Guides

The Small-Group Premium Northern Lights Tour from Reykjavik is our Editor's Choice for the best Northern Lights tours in Iceland.

Robert Baker

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Iceland is open for travel. Check volcano updates here .

Northern Lights Tours In Iceland

Browse our selection of aurora borealis tours from reykjavik or north iceland.

Northern Lights Tours

About Northern Lights Day Tours in Iceland

Hunting down the auroras alone can be a bit tricky , and winter driving conditions can be hazardous, especially for people who aren’t used to driving in the snow, fog, or slippery roads. It can save valuable time to book a tour with one of our professional guides. They know the perfect spots that are optimal for viewing the Northern Lights, which can change on any given day.

With more than 20 Northern Lights tours on offer, how do you find the perfect one to suit your trip? Well, that depends on what you’re expecting from your time in Iceland.

If you’re in Reykjavík for just a night or two, a day trip is the ideal bite-sized package for your layover or weekend. The Magical Auroras Northern Lights tour is our all-time bestselling day tour! Head out in either a minibus or upgrade to a Super Jeep on the Northern Lights Explorer . And with a few hours left over, there’s still plenty of time to squeeze in the stunning Blue Lagoon before your day tour! If you’re staying in the capital, a Northern Lights boat tour from the harbor offers you the chance to see the lights from the water.

If you’re in Iceland for an extended period of time, why not try a multi-day tour that includes a hunt for the elusive Northern Lights? Check out the first-timer’s package, our 3-day South Coast tour, which includes the Golden Circle, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, and a visit to an ice cave.

If you are seeking adventure in Iceland and your goal is to enjoy the Northern Lights show every day, check out our special tour tailored for the aurora explorer in you. Our 8-day Northern Lights tour with Golden Circle, Mývatn, hot springs, waterfalls, a glacier hike, and more, rewards explorers with unforgettable views of the Northern Lights.

WHY IS ICELAND THE PERFECT PLACE TO GO ON A NORTHERN LIGHTS TOUR?

Due to its proximity to the Arctic Circle, Iceland is the perfect destination to see the auroras. As Iceland is not densely populated, there is little light pollution. Even so, our tours always venture out from the cities to the countryside for optimal viewing. As the northernmost capital in the world, Reykjavík is ideal as a base for international travelers hoping to glimpse the lights.

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO BOOK A TOUR?

The best time of the year to see the Northern Lights in Iceland is from September to April, due to lower light pollution and frequency. In December and January, the nights are the longest, with only around four to five hours of sunlight. So the chance of seeing the light show increases exponentially during this season.

Check our winter tours to ensure you don't miss any natural wonders!

Important factors for ideal aurora viewing include recent solar activity, cloud density, and darkness. It’s always best to check the aurora forecast a few hours beforehand to know where the auroras will appear, how intense they will be, and where there are fewer clouds. However, just like the weather forecast, this can be a bit inaccurate at times.

FAQs ABOUT OUR NORTHERN LIGHTS TOURS IN ICELAND

Will i definitely see the lights on the tour.

The Northern Lights are natural phenomena and we unfortunately cannot promise you will see them on our tours. Your chances of seeing them depend on a number of factors that are out of our control, including weather conditions and atmospheric factors.

WHAT ARE THE BEST CAMERA SETTINGS FOR PHOTOGRAPHING THE AURORA BOREALIS ON MY TOUR?

Unfortunately, there isn’t a simple answer to this question as it takes patience, effort, and often, trial and error to photograph the auroras . You should be prepared to experiment with various settings on your camera and, due to the cold weather, you may need to bring additional accessories such as extra batteries. A tripod may also be helpful.

WHAT IF MY NORTHERN LIGHTS TOUR GOES AHEAD AND THE AURORA ISN’T SEEN?

A refund is not available if the Northern Lights tour goes ahead and none are seen, however, we do offer you the chance to join a Northern Lights minibus tour free of charge.

Please contact our Customer Care Team to re-book your tour.

WHAT ARE MY OPTIONS IF MY TOUR IS CANCELED?

When Northern Lights tours are canceled it’s usually due to unfavorable weather conditions.

In that case, your options will be to:

• Reschedule for another day.
• Find another tour to embark on and use the deposit for it.
• Get fully refunded.

Please contact our Customer Care team to re-book your tour.

HOW DO I KNOW IF THE NORTHERN LIGHTS TOUR IS ON FOR THE EVENING?

The Northern Lights are a pretty difficult thing to predict. You can check the Icelandic Meteorological Office website to see the forecast - if the level is high and the skies are clear then it’s very likely that the tour is going ahead. By 17:00 at the latest, we will update our website’s tour departure information, and if your tour is canceled for any reason, you’ll receive an email notifying you of the details. 

If we think there is no chance at all of seeing the lights, we will cancel the tour. We don’t want to bring you out and disappoint you if there will definitely be no aurora activity.

WILL MY GUIDE TAKE PICTURES FOR ME?

Yes, the guide will take a photo of you with the Northern Lights behind you. These can be single or group photos and are free of charge.

WHAT MONTHS CAN YOU SEE THE AURORA BOREALIS?

The Northern Lights season is said to be from late August until mid-April. However, if you want to increase your chances of seeing them, it is best to wait until the colder winter months, from mid-September until March.

CAN YOU SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS IN REYKJAVIK?

If luck and weather are on your side, then you will be able to see the Aurora Borealis above the inviting streets of Reykjavík. Whether you see the lights or not depends on two unique factors. The first is the weather: If the sky is clear, with no clouds, then you are halfway to seeing the astonishing spectacle that is the Northern Lights (although light pollution can sometimes be a problem).

Increased solar activity is the second factor, so if these two are both favorable at the same time you may well be able to see the Northern Lights from Reykjavík.

I AM TRYING TO BOOK A TOUR BUT MY CREDIT CARD PAYMENT FAILS. WHAT SHOULD I DO?

The first step is to make sure your credit card provider allows you to make payments in Canadian Dollars (CAD) or American Dollars (USD) if you have selected these currencies.

In some cases, your credit card company would need to pre-authorize the transaction for you before you can process the transaction online.

If you are still having problems booking through the Arctic Adventures website (www.adventures.is) then please contact our Customer Care Team .

WHAT TO WEAR WHEN HUNTING FOR THE AURORA?

Since it’ll be nighttime and winter when you chase the Northern Lights, it’s important to dress warmly! Be sure to dress in comfortable layers. Take an undershirt, a fleece sweater, and a jacket to go over everything. Don’t forget thermal underwear or leggings too!

HOW MUCH DOES THE NORTHERN LIGHTS TOUR COST?

The cost will really depend on the tour. Our basic Northern Lights tour in a minivan starts from 9.990 ISK. Upgrade to a Super Jeep for just 18.990 ISK more! Combo tours and multi-day tours are also priced at the best value possible.

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THE ULTIMATE NORTHERN LIGHTS EXPERIENCE IN ICELAND

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TRIPADVISOR HAS ANNOUNCED THAT OUR “ULTIMATE NORTHERN LIGHTS TOUR” HAS BEEN RECOGNIZED AS 2022 TRAVELERS’ CHOICE BEST OF THE BEST AWARD WINNER FOR TOP OVERALL EXPERIENCES IN ICELAND, RANKING SIXTH OUT OF 10 EXPERIENCES IN ICELAND. WITH THESE AWARDS, OUR ULTIMATE NORTHERN LIGHTS TOUR IS IN THE TOP 1% OF THINGS TO DO WORLDWIDE AND THE ONLY NORTHERN LIGHTS TOUR THAT MADE IT TO THE 2022 LIST.

The Ultimate Northern Lights Tour WITH ALL INCLUSIVE

The ultimate Private Northern Lights Tour 

The Ultimate Golden Circle & Northern Lights Tour

Why Aurora Experts?

EMBARK ON AN AWARD-WINNING SMALL GROUP AND PREMIUM NORTHERN LIGHTS TOUR IN ICELAND WITH 93% SIGHTING RATE , UNLIMITED AMOUNT OF PROFESSIONAL TOUR PHOTOS, WARM WINTER JUMPSUITS, OUTDOOR CHAIRS AND TRADITIONAL ICELANDIC SNACKS & DRINKS ON LOCATION. TO MAINTAIN AN INTIMATE AND COZY EXPERIENCE, OUR TOUR ONLY ACCOMMODATES A MAXIMUM OF 16 PASSENGERS WHICH IS A SMALL GROUP GUARANTEE THAT IS VERY HARD TO FIND ANYMORE HERE IN ICELAND. NO MORE CROWDED TOURS THAT COMPROMISE THE MAGIC!

Small Group Guarantee

Free Re-trie

Free Winter Overalls

Traditional Snack & Drinks

Free Beautiful Photos

Free Tripods

100% Refundable

Professional Guides

What our guests say, five star service.

We’d highly recommend using Heimir at Aurora Experts – Iceland. He had a small group guarantee, is so knowledgeable on the island, the lights and so much more. He had some Icelandic treats for us to sample while we were waiting for activity including some much needed hot chocolate. We could tell it was as fun for him as it was us. So happy we booked with him instead of one of the big tour groups. The personal service was unforgettable!

Janine Muckelroy – 27. November 2021

THE BEST AURORA EXPERIENCE

Unreal experience Aurora Experts in Iceland, the enthusiasm of the tour guide on was amazing, they really want us to had the best experience ever, they had jumpsuits to keep us warm which was a lifesaver and they had traditional Icelandic food. They also took amazing photos of us all, and the overall experience was incredible. Cannot recommend it enough. They let us stay for as long as we wanted, and that also made the experience even more enjoyable. it was AMAZING, lifetime experience.

Bruna Dontal – 18. November 2021

Highly Recommend - Incredible Experience

This tour was absolutely incredible! Heimir stayed in constant contact with us throughout the week on weather conditions and the best day/time to see the lights. We were able to see the lights and had amazing pictures of us taken. Despite it being cold, they provided extremely warm overalls that kept us comfortable and even brought traditional Icelandic foods for us to try which were amazing! They let us stay as long as we wanted so we could really enjoy the moment. This experience was top of my bucket list, and I highly recommend Heimer and Aurora Experts – Iceland for all future Northern Lights Tours!

Elaine – 20. November 2021

10/10 best tour guides

These guys are amazing!! Heimir had excellent communication with our group to make sure we had the best chance of seeing the lights. The whole experience was perfect. We saw the lights and got wonderful professional photos! They also make sure everyone is warm with the provided jumpsuits. We will definitely book with Heimir the next time we’re in Iceland.

Kristin G – 18. November 2021

The BEST Northern Lights Tour!!

Our group of 7 had the absolute best time!! We were thrilled to find a personalized experience and were blown away with the communication with Heimir prior to our tour and our overall tour! I felt like I couldn’t have trusted a better person to give us the best opportunity to see the northern lights on our trip of a lifetime! We saw them, have wonderful pictures to remember them by and also got to experience local eats and drinks during the tour! It truly couldn’t have been better. We have already told others planning their trips about this tour and we plan to come back!!

Heather – 17. November 2021

The personal service was unforgettable!

Just got home from our week long trip where the weather was cold, cloudy and not the best for viewing the lights. We had a KP2 on our last night so we went for it with help from a private guide that was bound and determined to make sure we didn’t leave the island without a show. We’d highly recommend using Heimir at Aurora Experts – Iceland. He had a small group guarantee, is so knowledgeable on the island, the lights and so much more. He had some Icelandic treats for us to sample while we were waiting for activity including some much needed hot chocolate. We could tell it was as fun for him as it was us. So happy we booked with him instead of one of the big tour groups. The personal service was unforgettable!

Lovetravel94767 – 1. December 2021

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Aurora Experts is a subsidiary brand and big part of the Iceland Travel Experts family.

At Iceland Travel Experts our mission is to provide personalised, high quality and sustainable service to every guest. We believe that with our experience and expertise, combined with passion for travel we can partner with you to craft a truly unique and unforgettable holiday in Iceland.

Beyond the trip, our goal is to make you love Iceland as much as we do!

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Northern Lights

Magical northern lights tours in iceland.

Few sights are as breathtaking as seeing the Aurora Borealis dancing across the dark winter sky in Iceland. Find your own unforgettable experience by choosing the tour that best suits you from our variety of Northern Lights tours in Iceland.

We Recommend

NORTHERN LIGHTS

Northern Lights - Small Group Tour

Northern Lights Tour

COMBO OFFERS

Blue Lagoon & Northern Lights

Northern Lights by Boat

Golden Circle & Northern Lights

Northern Lights & Fontana Geothermal Baths

MULTI-DAY TOURS

2 Day - Northern Lights & Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Northern Lights Explorer - Small Group Super Jeep Tour

What are the northern lights.

The northern lights are caused by particles from the sun. It's actually the interaction of these sun particles with the upper atmosphere. This only happens around the Earth's Magnetic Poles. The interaction creates the wonderful light effect known as the aurora borealis. Check out the latest aurora forecast in Iceland and read up on our more extensive overview of the northern lights in Iceland !

The northern lights are a truly spectacular natural phenomenon. It's one of those things that even seasoned Icelanders never get enough of. They are often seen dancing across the Icelandic Arctic sky in fantastic colours and vibrant hues. While they are sometimes visible from Reykjavik city, we highly recommend joining a professional tour. That way you can escape the city lights to enjoy the show to its fullest. Our expert guides study the weather and aurora forecast and provide tips on how to capture the light display. To come extra well prepared, read our guide on how to conquer your phone or camera to capture the northern lights and truly rule your instagram.

NORTHERN LIGHTS

Why should I book a Northern Lights tour?

Booking a Northern Lights hunting tour with Troll Expeditions ensures an unparalleled experience. Expert Guides offering in-depth knowledge guarantee you the best viewing locations.

You will explore secluded spots, minimizing light pollution for an enhanced aurora spectacle, and enjoy a personalized adventure in small groups, with guides capturing magical moments for stunning Northern Lights photographs.

Troll adapts to unpredictable weather with flexible tour schedules, optimizing your chances of ideal viewing conditions. You will travel in comfort with other travelers seeking to see the magic, ensuring your journey is as enjoyable as the destination.

Choose Troll Expeditions for an unforgettable, safe, and expertly guided Northern Lights experience.

Northern Lights Tours

Let's go hunting for AURORA BOREALIS this winter!

Northern Lights Hunting

Join us on a guided Aurora Borealis hunting! Hot chocolate and typical icelandic chocolate bars will make it even more special!

Join us on a more private & customised experience to the Aurora Borealis hunting! Hot chocolate and typical icelandic chocolate bars included.

Included (in the price)

Warm and Comforting drink

Replenish your energy with Hraun Chocolate Bar.

English Speaking Guide

Few people on every tour for maximum comfort

Internet access on board our minibus

Multi-Day Tours

Excursions featuring accommodations conveniently located within a brief walking distance for observing the Northern Lights.

2 Day South Coast

Explore Iceland's South Coast on a guided tour. Ice Cave & Northern Lights exploration.

3 Day South Coast

See Hidden Gems of Iceland's South Coast. Glacier Hike, Ice Cave. 2 Nights Hotel & Breakfast included

4 Day Snæfellsnes & South Coast

Explore the South Coast of Iceland and see all the wonders. 3 Nights Hotel & Breakfast included

5 day South Coast & Snæfellsnes

Adventure tour to the West and South Coast of Iceland! 4 Nights Hotel & Breakfast included

6 Days Around Iceland

Travel the ring-road in all the comfort of a guided tour. Plenty of fun activities: Glacier Hike, Ice Cave, Whale Watching, Northern Lights & much more. 5Nights Hotel & Breakfast included.

8 Days Around Iceland

Join the complete ring-road in the comfort of a guided tour. Plenty of fun activities: Glacier Hike, Ice Cave, Whale Watching, Northern Lights & much more. 7 Nights Hotel & Breakfast included.

Northern Lights

Watch the video to see more about the Northern Lights

Northern Lights in Iceland

Embark on an adventure to the land of ice and fire, where the Northern Lights take center stage in a celestial performance like no other! Iceland, with its enchanting natural wonders, invites you to be a spectator to the cosmic ballet of the Aurora Borealis, pirouetting gracefully across the canvas of its breathtaking landscapes.

Picture this: a symphony of colors dancing in the Arctic night sky, painting an awe-inspiring masterpiece that will leave you utterly spellbound. Thanks to Iceland's minimal light pollution and perfect positioning on the map, you're in for a front-row seat to a mesmerizing Northern Lights extravaganza.

Prepare to be whisked away on an extraordinary journey as you immerse yourself in the magic of the Arctic skies. Each night brings a unique spectacle, and from September to April, the lights illuminate the darkness, turning it into a canvas of celestial wonders. It's not just a trip; it's a rendezvous with the extraordinary.

So, why should you add witnessing the aurora borealis to your bucket list? Because Iceland is not just a destination; it's a portal to a realm where nature's grandest light show unfolds, making every visit an unforgettable chapter in your travel diary!

Why is it better to join a Northern Lights Hunt?

Here are several reasons to participate in a Northern Lights expedition instead of attempting to find them on your own.

#1 Professional Guides

Meet our Northern Lights Wizards! Our team of Pro Guides is like the Sherlock Holmes of the aurora scene. They dive into the forecast, making sure to outsmart the cosmic weather gods and find you the absolute best spot to catch the celestial dance each night. Their insider knowledge is your golden ticket to a front-row seat in the aurora show—increasing your odds of a mind-blowing viewing experience!

#2 Knowledge

Say hello to our Tour Gurus, the ultimate wizards of local secrets! Armed with insider knowledge and a treasure trove of tips, they'll whisk you away to those hidden gems for Northern Lights viewing. These spots are so stunning, they're like the ninja warriors of beauty – easily missed when you're on a solo adventure. Let our Guides be your magical map to uncover the awe-inspiring, lesser-known wonders of the aurora spectacle!

#3 Meet People

Get ready to roll with a squad of fellow thrill-seekers, all decked out for an Icelandic escapade! Watching the Northern Lights is like stepping into a fairy tale, but guess what makes it even more epic? Doing it with your adventure buddies who are just as stoked as you are! The shared oohs, ahhs, and gasps create a bond that's practically unbreakable – it's like forging friendships under the magical glow of the Northern Lights. Get ready for a camaraderie-filled journey that'll make your Icelandic adventure a tale to tell for ages!

Picture this: you, part of a legendary squad, conquering the wild and untamed lands of Iceland! Safety is our superhero, and in the unpredictable realms of the unknown, a group tour is your trusty sidekick. It's like having a team of travel superheroes by your side, ready to swoop in and save the day if any unexpected twists try to sneak up on you. So, buckle up, because in our group tours, safety is not just a feature – it's an epic superpower!

#5 Cheaper and Easier

Say goodbye to budget blues and the headache of renting a car, battling tricky weather, and doing the GPS dance toward all the wrong places to catch the Northern Lights. Let's make life easy – kick back, relax, and let our guide be your personal navigator through the aurora chase.

And guess what? If the lights decide to play hide-and-seek, no worries! We've got your back with a second shot at the spectacle, absolutely free. It's the ultimate cosmic guarantee – the Northern Lights or round two is on us!

What should I bring with me?

Everything you need to know about chasing the Northern Lights in Iceland

The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, is a natural phenomenon where solar particles manifest as shimmering streaks of light in the sky. It’s one of the most breathtaking sights you’ll ever see.

Out of all the places to see the Northern Lights, Iceland is arguably the most popular destination. In fact, catching the Northern Lights in Iceland is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that many travelers have on their bucket lists.

Want in on the action? We’ve rounded up the best spots for you to see the Northern Lights in Reykjavik and across Iceland.

The best time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland

Even though the Northern Lights are technically always there, the best time to see them is during winter between October and March. That’s when Iceland has its longest nights of the year. Naturally, this ups your chances to see the Northern Lights, especially if you try your luck between 5 p.m. and 2 a.m.

You’ll also want clear, cloudless skies and very dark nights (avoid full moons). But even then, there’s no guarantee you’ll be able to see the Northern Lights. It’s a bummer, we know. But you can always boost your chances by following Iceland’s daily Aurora Forecast —just plan your trips around their projections.

The best places to see the Northern Lights in Iceland

The Westfjords

Known for its enigmatic cliffs and beautiful shoreline, the Westfjords is a sparsely populated peninsula in Iceland’s northwestern corner. With little to no light pollution, it’s one of the best places to see the Northern Lights in Iceland.

Bolafjall is the top destination in the Westfjords for a Northern Lights excursion. It’s a tall cliff located at the very tip of the peninsula where the solar winds are much stronger. From this vantage point, you’ll be able to see brighter and more vivid streaks in the sky.

You’ll also want to add Dynjandi , the largest waterfall in the Westfjords, to your list. Just imagine the beauty of the Northern Lights next to the cascading falls.

North Iceland

Akureyri is a picturesque port city surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Its remote location, close to the Arctic Circle, makes it one of the few settlements in Iceland where you can enjoy the Northern Lights.

Nicknamed the 'Waterfall of the Gods', Goðafoss is one of the key stops on Iceland's popular Diamond Circle road trip route. Glacial highland waters from the Skjálfandafljót river gush from a height of 40 feet around a 100-foot wide horseshoe-shaped basin.

Skagafjörður

If you only have time to squeeze in one location, we recommend Skagafjörður . Explore the vast pastures and deep gorges by day and catch the most amazing display of the Northern Lights after dark.

South Iceland

Jökulsárlón.

Jökulsárlón is a glacial lagoon in the southeast of Iceland. The shore is full of ice boulders that capture and reflect the glow of the Northern Lights for an even more magical experience.

Reynisfjara Beach

Reynisfjara is a famous black sand beach with giant basalt stacks rising out of the ocean. The Northern Lights dancing around basalt cliffs make for a truly dramatic show.

Seljavallalaug

Take a dip at Seljavallalaug , one of Iceland’s oldest open-air swimming pools (free of charge), open 24 hours a day. What could be better than soaking in the hot springs and catching the cosmic light show overhead?

In and around Reykjavik

Most travelers who visit Iceland will inevitably have to fly into Reykjavik. If the capital is your base, include these spots on your list to watch the Northern Lights in Reykjavik.

Grótta Lighthouse

Just a 10-minute drive from the city center, Grótta Lighthouse is one of the top locations to see the Northern Lights in Reykjavik because of its remote location. The lighthouse is only accessible during low tide via a sandy bank, so make sure you check tide times before heading out.

Reykjavik’s city parks

Klambratún and Oskjuhlid are excellent spots as the trees in the area block out most of the city lights. If you want to relax in an outdoor thermal pool while you watch the skies, visit Laugardalur , a recreational space just east of the city center.

Best hotels to see the Northern Lights

Fancy admiring the Northern Lights from the comfort of your own hotel room? You’re in luck because there are quite a few hotels in Iceland that allow you to do exactly that.

Hotel Rangá

Hotel Rangá is about a two-hour drive south of Reykjavik. Its remote location allows you to enjoy the Northern Lights with minimal distraction, either from your own balcony or while soaking in an outdoor hot tub. What’s more, the hotel offers wake-up calls specifically for the Northern Lights.

Hotel Húsafell

A secluded resort located in the middle of the Icelandic wilderness, Hotel Húsafell is close to many natural wonders and vistas that Iceland is known for. During the day, you can explore the Langjökull glacier, ice caves, and more.

Hofsstaðir Country Hotel

Perched atop a verdant hill, Hofsstaðir Country Hotel in Skagafjörður offers stunning views of majestic fjords during the day and an intimate, front-row view of the Northern Lights at night. Book a room with a veranda for a private viewing of the lights show.

Reykjavik Domes

Glamping in Iceland sounds like an absolute dream, especially if you can catch the Northern Lights in the process. At Reykjavik Domes , that dream becomes a reality. This glamping experience features a number of luxurious dome-shaped tents with large windows that allow you to see the Northern Lights even while in bed.

Best ways to see the Northern Lights from Reykjavik

Northern Lights boat tours in Reykjavik

Sign up for a Northern Lights Cruise that takes you out to sea to view the Northern Lights. The boats depart the harbor at Reykjavik in the evening and head straight to Faxafloi Bay where they drop anchor.

If the weather is perfect and the seas are calm, you’ll be treated to an uninterrupted view of the Northern Lights. The best Northern Lights boat tours in Reykjavik usually cost between $70 and $90 per person based on the type of cruise or boat you choose.

Northern Lights land tours from Reykjavik

If you prefer guided excursions on land, we recommend joining a Superjeep tour from Reykjavik. Perfect for adventurers who prefer traveling in smaller groups, this tour allows you to reach some of the most remote locations in the region you wouldn’t otherwise be able to access.

Compared to boat tours, a super jeep tour is slightly more expensive, costing between $150 and $200 per person, but it’s worth the splurge.

Alternatively, you can join a Northern Lights minibus tour or the Northern Lights and Stargazing small group tour from Reykjavik.

Self-drive Northern Lights tour

Finally, if you have a valid driver’s license, you can rent a car and embark on an epic self-drive journey chasing the Northern Lights in Reykjavik but be careful of road conditions in winter. Car rentals cost between $40 and $60 a day, with gas costing around $7.50 per gallon.

Recommended tours and activities

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10 Best Northern Lights Tours in Iceland (Reykjavik)

Home | Travel | Europe | Iceland | 10 Best Northern Lights Tours in Iceland (Reykjavik)

Booking a Northern Lights tour in Iceland is the best way to increase your chances of seeing the famous aurora borealis. While it’s possible to see the Northern Lights in Iceland on your own, a guided tour will give you the most enjoyable experience since the guides can expertly predict the Northern Lights forecast .

Besides, there are several amazing Northern Lights tours from Reykjavik , so as long as you’re in the capital city, you’ll have lots of options to choose from. Just be sure to travel during the Northern Lights season so you get the most magnificent show possible!

We run photo tours to Iceland every year to enjoy this fascinating natural phenomenon, although the excursion is designed for landscape photographers. If you’re not an avid photographer, but you still want to go aurora hunting in Iceland, I highly recommend taking one of these aurora tours from Reykjavik :

• The best Northern Lights tour
• The cheapest Northern Lights tour
• Small group Northern Lights tour
• Private Northern Lights tour
• Best Northern Lights boat tour
• Blue Lagoon & Northern Lights tour
• Whale watching & Northern Lights tour
• South Coast & Sólheimajökull Glacier Northern Lights tour
• Golden Circle & Northern Lights tour
• Multi-day Northern Lights tours

1.  The best Northern Lights tour in Iceland

Without a doubt, this excursion  is the  best Northern Lights excursion in Iceland .

During this tour, an expert guide will take you to an area with zero light pollution so you can fully enjoy this natural spectacle. Along the way, you’ll learn about the Northern Lights, including curiosities and superstitions revolving around this unique phenomenon.

Once you arrive at your destination, you’ll have free time to take photos, walk around the area, or simply gaze in wonder at the Green Lady. Also, this tour includes round-trip bus transportation, making it one of the top excursions from Reykjavik, especially if you don’t plan on renting a car.

• Highlights : Northern Lights Observation
• Duration : 3 hours
• Number of participants : 50
• Price : $62/person

2. The cheapest Iceland Northern Lights tour from Reykjav ík

If you’re looking for another cheap Northern Lights tour in Iceland , I recommend booking this tour . It departs from Reykjavik and includes admission to the Northern Lights Center, a scientific museum all about the aurora borealis. It has all kinds of interactive exhibits that teach you what the Northern Lights are and how they form.

2. The cheapest Iceland Northern Lights tour from Reykjavík

If you take this tour, you’ll wait until nightfall to explore the best places to see the Northern Lights , as predicted by meteorologists and experts. Hopefully, there will be clear skies, but if you don’t have any luck seeing the aurora, you can retake the tour for free on another day. I recommend taking this tour on the first day of your trip, so you have time in your itinerary in case you need to retake it.

• Highlights : Admission to the Northern Lights Center and Northern Lights observation
• Duration : 4 hours
• Price : $55/person

3. Small group Icelandic Northern Lights tour from Reykjavik

A small group Northern Lights tour in Iceland is ideal for those who want to experience the aurora in a calmer, more exclusive setting. This tour is a great option since it departs from Reykjavik in a comfortable luxury minibus.

You’ll head to an area with zero light pollution and optimal weather conditions, creating the perfect environment to witness the dancing aurora. Be aware that you can only take this tour between September and April, and if you don’t have any luck seeing the Northern Lights the first time, you can retake the tour for free.

Moreover, this Iceland aurora tour includes admission to the Northern Lights Center, one of the coolest attractions in Reykjavik where you can learn more about this natural light show. You’ll also be able to enjoy light refreshments during the tour.

• Highlights : Admission to the Northern Lights Center and Northern Lights observation in a small group
• Number of participants : 18
• Price : $87/person

4. Private Northern Lights tour in Iceland from Reykjav ík

If you want to see the aurora in privacy but you prefer having a guide, consider this tour . It’s one of the best Northern Lights excursions from Reykjavik and it even includes hotel pick-up.

Once you board the bus, you’ll travel to the best viewing spot to see the Northern Lights, with optimal conditions and zero light pollution. Depending on the day, you may go to Thingvellir National Park, Hvalfjordur, or the Reykjanes Peninsula, all beautiful places to watch the Green Lady.

4. Private Northern Lights tour in Iceland from Reykjavík

Your guide will tell you all about this natural phenomenon and the legends surrounding it. You’ll have about an hour to marvel at the dancing lights, then you’ll be dropped off at your hotel. Without a doubt, this is the best private Northern Lights tour in Iceland , although I also recommend staying in one of Iceland’s Northern Lights hotels so you can continue enjoying the show.

• Highlights : Private Northern Lights Tour
• Number of participants : up to 3 people
• Price : $70/person

5. Best Northern Lights boat tour in Reykjavik

A Northern Lights cruise from Reykjavik is one of the most unique experiences, so I highly recommend it. While gliding along the sea, you’ll witness the Green Lady and the beautiful mountains and fjords in the background, so it’s guaranteed to be an unforgettable trip.

If this sounds good to you, then book this excursion , which begins at the port in Reykjavik. There, you’ll board the boat and sail along the coast of Iceland until you reach the point where you’ll have the highest chances of seeing the Northern Lights.

Keep in mind that this tour only operates if the weather conditions are favorable for sailing. We’ve always had luck during our trips, but if you run out of luck on your scheduled tour date, you can retake the excursion for free. This is the best Northern Lights boat tour in Reykjavik , so it’s definitely worth it!

• Highlights : Northern Lights Boat Tour
• Duration : 2.5 hours
• Number of participants : 200
• Price : $88/person

6. Blue Lagoon & Northern Lights tour from Reykjavik, Iceland

Another interesting aurora borealis tour in Iceland is this excursion , which includes a visit to the Blue Lagoon . Not only will you get to witness the spectacular Northern Lights show, but you’ll also experience Iceland’s geothermal waters.

At the Blue Lagoon, you can take a relaxing soak and enjoy one of the treatments offered here, like a silica mask. The waters are said to have health properties and benefits like smoother and firmer skin, so you’re sure to feel refreshed after your visit.

At night, you’ll take a guided tour to see the Northern Lights, and your destination will depend on that evening’s weather conditions. If you don’t have any luck, you can retake the tour on another day free of charge.

Finally, this Blue Lagoon and Northern Lights tour in Iceland includes all transfers, including to and from the Blue Lagoon, so you won’t have to worry about transportation.

• Highlights : Blue Lagoon admission and Northern Lights
• Duration : 8 hours
• Price : $217/person

7. Whale-watching and Northern Lights tour in Iceland

Among all the amazing things to do here, whale-watching in Iceland is our personal favorite. Did you know that you can combine this activity with a Northern Lights boat trip in Reykjavik ? This excursion is one of the most magical experiences, so I highly recommend it if you want to enjoy two unforgettable attractions in one tour.

During the trip, you’ll take a boat to an area commonly inhabited by minke and humpback whales, as well as dolphins and porpoises. Of course, remember that these are wild animals that live freely in the sea, so it’s not possible to predict their movements with 100% accuracy. That said, the tour operators have been in business for years, so they’re the best experts on scouting out these magnificent creatures.

Any time we’ve done this type of excursion, we’ve seen several species of cetaceans, so I’m sure you’ll have a great time. Be aware that you can retake the tour for free if you don’t have any luck, so it’s best to take this tour on your first day in Iceland.

This whale-watching and Northern Lights tour in Iceland includes an evening session to hunt the aurora among the mountains and fjords. It’s an incredible experience, so bring your camera!

• Highlights : Whale Watching and Northern Lights Boat Tour
• Duration : 6 hours
• Price : $167/person

8. Northern Lights tour through Iceland’s South Coast & S ólheimaj ökull Glacier

While visiting Reykjavik, you may want to discover other parts of Iceland, so consider this excursion to see the Northern Lights and some top attractions in the southern region of the island.

During this guided Northern Lights tour in Iceland , you’ll visit the Seljalandsfoss waterfall and the Sólheimajökull glacier. You’ll learn how the glacier formed, as well as other interesting facts about the area. One of the coolest parts of the tour was hearing the sound of the moving ice, which we thought was quite impressive.

8. Northern Lights tour through Iceland’s South Coast & Sólheimajökull Glacier

Other stops on this excursion include the black sand beach of Reynisfjara, the Reynisdrangar cliffs, and the Skógafoss waterfall, among other top sights in Iceland . After touring the southern coast and enjoying a warm dinner, you’ll begin your Iceland Northern Lights tour , heading to an area with the most optimal conditions to see the Green Lady.

• Highlights : Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, Sólheimajökull glacier, Reynisfjara black sand beach, and Northern Lights
• Duration : 16 hours
• Number of participants : 10
• Price : $220/person

9. Golden Circle and Northern Lights tour in Iceland

Another Northern Lights tour from Reykjavik that will pique your interest is this one , which includes a tour of the Golden Circle .

Exploring the Golden Circle is one of the best ways to discover this island country, which is known as the Land of Fire and Ice. You’ll see why as you visit sites like the Gullfoss waterfall and Thingvellir National Park, where you’ll be able to see the Strokkur geyser in action.

At night, you’ll depart from Reykjavik and spend a few hours hunting the aurora borealis in the sky. It’s a full itinerary, so this Golden Circle and Northern Lights tour in Iceland is one of the best excursions you can do if it’s your first time in the country.

• Highlights : Golden Circle and Northern Lights
• Duration : 9 hours
• Price : $115/person

10. Multi-day Northern Lights tours in Iceland from Reykjav ík

Renting a car in Iceland is the easiest way to see different places in the country, but if you don’t want to drive, you can take an organized tour.

10. Multi-day Northern Lights tours in Iceland from Reykjavík

There are even multi-day Northern Lights tours in Iceland in which you can see several attractions in one trip. These are the ones I recommend:

• 4-Day Northern Lights Tour : You’ll visit the Golden Circle, Iceland’s south coast, and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, as well as go hunting for the Northern Lights. Includes three nights of accommodation with breakfast.
• 6-Day Northern Lights Tour : You’ll go all the way around the island, passing through the Golden Circle, south Iceland, the East Fjords, and the Lake Mývatn geothermal area. You will also have time to enjoy the Northern Lights. This tour includes accommodation for five nights with breakfast.
• 8-Day Northern Lights Tour : You’ll take a tour around the island and discover the Golden Circle, south Iceland, the East Fjords, the Lake Mývatn geothermal area, and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. You’ll also see the Northern Lights. Includes seven nights of accommodation with breakfast.

These excursions are super convenient and thorough since they take care of transportation and accommodation and include guided Northern Lights tours in Iceland . So, if you don’t want to worry about anything, I recommend checking them out.

Price of Northern Lights tours in Iceland (Reykjav ík)

The price of a Northern Lights tour from Reykjavik varies depending on the size of the group, the duration, and any included activities or attractions. To make it easier for you to choose, here is a chart comparing the prices and important details for the best Northern Lights tours in Iceland :

I hope this guide helped you find the perfect aurora tour in Reykjavik ! Keep in mind that the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon affected by several factors like solar activity and cloud cover. If you book an excursion and it’s canceled due to poor weather conditions, or you take the tour but don’t see the Northern Lights, you can retake it on another day for free.

Therefore, I recommend booking your tour for the first day of your trip, so you have time to retake it. You could also take a multi-day trip to see the Northern Lights , which will grant you more time to witness this marvelous spectacle.

Finally, I recommend checking out our guide on how to photograph the Northern Lights so you can return home with some amazing memories. Also, our article on where to stay in Iceland has the best accommodation options, including places where you can see the aurora from your room.

Feel free to leave your questions or comment below; I’d love to hear from you! With that, I wish you a wonderful time during your Northern Lights tour in Iceland !

Ascen Aynat

2 replies on “ 10 Best Northern Lights Tours in Iceland (Reykjavik) ”

Myself and my friend are very much interested to go to escorted 8 days tour in Iceland to watch Northern lights in Fen 2024. Can you get in touch with me to organise it. Thank you

Hi, That sounds like a fantastic trip! You can organize that 8-day Northern Lights excursion by following the link and booking a spot.

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Explore the best of West & South Iceland

Discover the Golden Circle, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, the Blue Lagoon, the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Black lava beaches. Climb a volcano, learn about Iceland’s earliest days at a Settlement Center, meet Icelandic horses, see turf farmsteads and churches. There is an optional ice cave tour at Vatnajökull glacier from October-April (weather permitting) and an optional Northern Lights by boat cruise from Reykjavík. Our Northern Lights Exploration series are designed to include the highlights of Iceland and aim to maximise the chances of seeing the elusive Northern Lights, most nights are spent in the darkness away from light pollution.

• Regular departures (maximum 40 people) on Fridays
• Small group departures (maximum 16 people) on Tuesdays
• German departures (maximum 40 people) on Sundays

Discover the Golden Circle, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, the Blue Lagoon, the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Black lava beaches. Climb a volcano, stop at a shark farmer, meet Icelandic horses, see turf farmsteads and churches. There is an optional ice cave tour at Vatnajökull glacier from mid-November to mid-March and an optional Northern Lights by boat cruise from Reykjavík. Our Northern Lights Exploration series are designed to include the highlights of Iceland and aim to maximise the chances of seeing the elusive Northern Lights, most nights are spent in the darkness away from light pollution.

• Big groups (maximum 45 people) departures on Fridays.
• Small groups (maximum 16 people) departures on Tuesdays.

Highlights & Experiences

• Track record of 85-98% chance of seeing the Northern Lights
• See amazing Icelandic landscapes mixed with soft adventure and cultural experiences during the day
• Climb a volcano crater and walk between two continental tectonic plates
• Visit the Settlement Center in Borgarnes
• Descend 35m underground into Vatnshellir cave situated under Snæfellsnesjökull glacier
• Relax in the Blue Lagoon and learn about living with volcanoes
• See Icelandic horses and taste freshly baked hot spring bread
• Five evenings Northern Lights Academy
• Program offered in two group sizes: maximum 16 or 40 persons
• Optional ice cave tour at Vatnajökull glacier for departures between October-April (weather permitting)

Click on each day for more details

Day 1 Arrival Day

Individual transfer by Flybus shuttle bus from Keflavik airport to your accommodation in Reykjavik. You may explore Iceland’s capital city on your own if time allows.

Overnight location: Hotel Klettur or similar. Dinner is on your own. (50km / 31mi)

Day 2 Reykjavik City Tour & Borgarfjordur Saga Valley

At 09:00 meet your tour guide who shows the group the highlights of Iceland’s exciting capital. Then we head west. We stop in Borgarnes and learn about Iceland’s earliest days at the Settlement Center. Next we head to Borgarfjörður, known as the Saga Valley because of its many important historical events. Get a chance to climb the Grábrók volcano crater and visit Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring. Hraunfossar is a series of waterfalls pouring from beneath a wide lava field. Barnafoss – the Children’s falls, is nearby with its own tragic tale. The afternoon includes a lecture about Northern Lights. After dinner, step into the hotel garden in search of the Northern Lights followed by a hot cup of chocolate or tea.

Overnight location: Hotel Hamar or similar. Breakfast included. Lunch & dinner is on your own. (245km / 152mi)

Day 3 Snæfellsnes Peninsula & Lava Cave

The Snæfellsnes Peninsula, “the peninsula of the snowy mountain“, juts out from Iceland’s west coast, like a long arm with a clenched fist at its tip, and is in many ways a microcosm of the whole island. A rugged mountain chain runs its length. Visit the fishing village of Grundarfjörður, a place with an impressive coastline and mountains, lakes and waterfalls behind the village. One of the most photographed and famous mountain in Iceland, Kirkjufell, can be seen jutting out into the bay. Visit Arnarstapi and Hellnar before experiencing the area from below, inside Vatnshellir cave. We take you 35 meters underground and about 200 meters into the lava tube under the glacier Snæfellsjökull! On the way back to Borgarnes the guide gives you some practical tips on how to photograph the Auroras as part of the Northern Lights Academy program. Naturally, once darkness falls, we are out in the hotel garden to chase the Northern Lights and to soak in the hotel’s outdoor hot tubs.

Overnight location: Hotel Hamar or similar. Breakfast & Lunch included. Dinner on your own. (300km / 186mi)

Day 4 Golden Circle, Geothermal Taste & Icelandic Horse

Travel along the Hvalfjörður fjord. The first stop is Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Travel the Golden Circle route, see steam rising from the Geysir geothermal fields. The chef of the Restaurant Geysir invites you to taste freshly baked hot spring bread served with Icelandic butter, boiled eggs and herring. On we travel to double waterfall of Gullfoss. In the afternoon, learn about the Icelandic horse, its unique qualities and history and visit a geothermal greenhouse, before reaching the accommodation in South Iceland. Tonight, step into the darkness and search for the elusive Northern Lights in the peace and stillness of rural Iceland.

Overnight location: Landhotel in Hella or similar. Breakfast included. Lunch & dinner is on your own. (260km / 162mi)

Day 5 Natural Wonders of South Iceland & Eyjafjallajökull Volcano

Today we travel along the South coast. At the Lava & Volcano Exhibition Center, learn about geology and active volcanoes. Further east we visit one of Iceland’s finest folk museums. This museum contains an outstanding collection of farm and domestic artefacts from Iceland’s past and several turf-built houses. Nearby is Skógafoss waterfall which is 60 meters high and one of the most impressive waterfalls in the country. In the afternoon take a stroll on the black lava beach and along bird cliffs at Reynisfjara in South Iceland. We spend two nights near Kirkjubæjarklaustur in the Vatnajökull National Park region, located in darkness and ideal for Northern Lights search.

Overnight location: Fosshótel Núpar or similar. Breakfast included. Lunch & dinner is on your own. (225km / 140mi)

Day 6 Vatnajökull National Park & Glacier including Glacial Lagoon and Diamond Beach

Today’s program is all about glaciers, ice and icebergs. We travel to Jökulsárlón, a glacial lagoon filled with floating icebergs, and we explore the amazing site and might see seals swimming in arctic waters. You can walk on the black sandy beach, the so-called Diamond beach, where large icebergs get stranded. In the afternoon we visit the tiny turf church at Hof and spend time at Europe’s largest national park, which has Iceland’s highest mountains, an alpine environment, and Europe’s largest glacier. In the evening enjoy a film presentation about the Northern Lights as part of the Northern Lights Academy program. Be careful not to go to bed too soon in this remote and quiet location, or you may miss out one more chance of seeing the Northern Lights shimmering and dancing across the night sky.

Optional Ice Cave Tour offered between October-April (weather permitting), unveils an extraordinary journey through Iceland’s icy landscapes. Lasting approximately 2.5 hours, the tour commences with a scenic 30-minute 4×4 drive from the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, followed by a 5-15 minute hike to the cave entrance. Once inside, you’re enveloped in a surreal world of breathtaking beauty. Nature’s artistry is on full display as you behold awe-inspiring ice formations, their hues of blue evoking a sense of otherworldly wonder. The air is crisp, the silence profound, creating an ethereal ambiance that captivates the senses. This adventure offers a rare glimpse into the raw power and majesty of Iceland’s icy terrain—a memory to cherish for a lifetime. Priced at ISK 23,000 per person, the tour requires good hiking boots and warm, waterproof clothing to ensure comfort and safety. With a minimum age requirement of 10 years old, booking is available on day 2 of the Northern Lights Exploration tour. After the cave exploration, participants are escorted back to the hotel, while the remainder of the group continues the official tour program. The ice cave explorers will miss out on some of the official tour program, as there is not time for everything. The stop and visit at the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon is included for all group members., ensuring a comprehensive and unforgettable Icelandic adventure.

Overnight location: Fosshótel Núpar or similar. Breakfast included. Lunch & dinner is on your own. (200km / 125mi)

Day 7 South Shore & Blue Lagoon

From Kirkjubæjarklaustur we head across the Eldhraun lava field to the village of Vík, where we make a photo stop. The black lava beach with high bird cliffs and pounding waves is awe-inspiring. Further west we reach the high but narrow Seljalandsfoss waterfall which plunges from the mountain. In the afternoon we get to soak in the famous Blue Lagoon. We reach Reykjavík around dinner time for one last night.

Overnight location: Hotel Klettur or similar. Breakfast included. Lunch & dinner is on your own. (365km / 227mi) The Blue Lagoon visit is in the afternoon. Tour ends around 7pm.

Day 8 Departure Day

Individual transfer by Flybus shuttle bus from your accommodation in Reykjavik to Keflavik International Airport.

Breakfast included. (50km / 31mi)

NOTE:  Accommodations are subject to change.

NOTE:  Itineraries may be subject to change at short notice during severe weather conditions and certain outdoor activities/day trips may be cancelled during the winter season in Iceland. In these rare cases, where situations of force majeure apply, excursions/activities cannot be refunded but the local guides will try their best to find reasonable alternatives where and whenever possible.

Cancellation policy for the tour

Price & Details

Sep '23 | price, inclusions & exclusions.

EUR 2.180  per person (double/twin room, breakfast included) EUR 2.440  per person (single room, breakfast included)

EUR 195  Extra Single Room night in Reykjavík. Price per room per night incl. breakfast EUR 240  Extra Double Room night in Reykjavík. Price per room per night incl. breakfast

EUR 120 per car Upgrade for private airport transfer one-way 1-6 persons

Price Includes • 7 nights accommodation at comfort tourist-class hotels • 7x breakfast • 1x lunch • 6 days escorted bus tour with English-speaking guide/driver-guide • Arrival & departure airport transfer by Flybus shuttle (no guide) • Visit the Settlement Center in Borgarnes • Guided tour into Vatnshellir cave • Hot spring Tasting with geothermal cooked bread & eggs • Visit Icelandic horse stable & geothermal greenhouse • Visit Lava Exhibition Center • Skógar folk museum & turf houses • Entrance with towel to Blue Lagoon • Northern Lights program

Price Excludes • Any private expenses • Any additional services • All meals not listed under “included” • Single supplement (mandatory when in a single room)

Complementaries • Entrance fees • Free Wi-Fi on the bus • Use of crampons for shoes • Use of flashlight

Additional services • Extra night in Reykjavik before/after the tour – on request • Upgrade for private airport transfer • Optional ice cave visit October-April (weather permitting)

Oct '23 | Price, inclusions & exclusions

EUR 1.990  per person (double/twin room, breakfast included) EUR 2.240  per person (single room, breakfast included)

EUR 150  Extra Single Room night in Reykjavík. Price per room per night incl. breakfast EUR 190  Extra Double Room night in Reykjavík. Price per room per night incl. breakfast

Nov '23 - Apr '24 | Price, inclusions & exclusions

EUR 1.850  per person (double/twin room, breakfast included) EUR 2.100  per person (single room, breakfast included)

EUR 120  Extra Single Room night in Reykjavík. Price per room per night incl. breakfast EUR 150  Extra Double Room night in Reykjavík. Price per room per night incl. breakfast

Sep '24 | Price, inclusions & exclusions

EUR 2.540  per person (double/twin room, breakfast included) EUR 3.600  per person (single room, breakfast included)

EUR 250  Extra Single Room night in Reykjavík. Price per room per night incl. breakfast EUR 280  Extra Double Room night in Reykjavík. Price per room per night incl. breakfast

Price Includes • 7 nights accommodation at comfort tourist-class hotels • 7x breakfast • 1x lunch • 6 days escorted bus tour with English-speaking guide/driver-guide • Arrival & departure airport transfer by Flybus shuttle (no guide) • Visit the Settlement Center in Borgarnes • Guided tour into Vatnshellir cave • Hot spring Tasting with geothermal cooked bread & eggs • Visit Icelandic horse stable & geothermal greenhouse • Visit Lava Exhibition Center • Skógar folk museum & turf houses • Entrance with towel to Blue Lagoon • Northern Lights program

Oct '24 | Price, inclusions & exclusions

EUR 2.180  per person (double/twin room, breakfast included) EUR 2.890  per person (single room, breakfast included)

EUR 195  Extra Single Room night in Reykjavík. Price per room per night incl. breakfast EUR 220  Extra Double Room night in Reykjavík. Price per room per night incl. breakfast

Nov '24 - Apr '25 | Price, inclusions & exclusions

EUR 2.040  per person (double/twin room, breakfast included) EUR 2.630  per person (single room, breakfast included)

Children discount: 20% discount for children 8-11 years of age if sharing room with 2 adults. Tour is not recommended for children younger than eight years of age. Triple rooms are double rooms with an extra bed and ideal for two adults and one child.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where should I meet the guide? Meet with your tour guide on day 2, just before 9:00 am in the lobby of your hotel.

When and where does the tour start? The tour starts on day 2, just before 9:00 am in the lobby of your hotel.

What are first and last days for? Arrival and departure days are to make your flight arrangements easier and to have a free day of leisure. The tour starts on day 2 and ends the second to last day.

Do you arrange airport transfers? GJ Travel provides airport transfers with the Flybus, available on arrival hall at KEF airport.

In what language is the tour? All of our tours are English-speaking.

When can we see the Northern Lights? The Northern Lights season is from September to mid-April. We carefully choose locations to maximize your chances to see the northern lights with the help of a professional tour guide.

Are the Northern Lights guaranteed on this trip? The Northern Lights or Aurora Borealis as they are also referred to are one of the many natural wonders of the world and are a natural phenomenon. As a naturally occurring phenomenon, the appearance of the Northern Lights is notoriously difficult to predict any further in advance than about two hours before it happens. So much is dependent on solar activity, we cannot accurately predict when they will occur nor how frequently. Every endeavour will be made on this trip to see the Northern Lights if it is the correct time of year to see the lights, however, this is not guaranteed. The tour includes Northern Light walks from the hotels. Also, most of the hotels are located away from light pollution.

Can you assist with booking additional accommodation? Of course, we can help you book pre/post tour accommodation if you wish to stay in the same hotels as the ones we use on the tour. We always have some rooms on allotment for pre/post nights. If you would like to stay an extra day in Reykjavík before or after the tour, please contact our team.

I’m a solo traveller, is there a single supplement? A single supplement is mandatory for this trip if you want to have your own room.

What is the age range? The minimum age limit for this tour is 8 years old and we don’t recommend it for younger children. There is, on the other hand, no maximum age for this tour.

Are the flights included? Flights before and after the tour are not included.

What is the suggested budget for meals? Somewhere between 8.000 and 10.000 ISK per person per day is a good budget for meals while on the tour.

Are there locations to purchase food while we are on the trip or must the meals be pre-packed? We will make stops during the tour at restaurants, supermarkets and gas stations where meals, drinks and snacks can be purchased while on the tour.

How much time is spent at each attraction? We stop for about 40 minutes at each attraction.

Start & End Location

Keflavik International Airport (Flybus shuttle)

Departure Time

09:00 on day 2 at Hotel Klettur, Reykjavík (subject to change)

Northen Lights Exploration

Aurora Statistics

Client from Tourradar

Wonderful experience – great group, great guide Peter and great itinerary. It felt like we got to know Iceland in depth – history, geology, culture, sights to see. The pace was steady but not exhausting. Be prepared though: food is extremely expensive and mostly not included in the tour and hotels are sparse compared to US but fairly comfortable.

Excellent, couldn’t have been better. Petur knows so much and remembered every fact of Iceland! He was top notch! No complaints over the accommodation. Meal that was included (fish and cake) was 10/10 – delicious. Meals in the hotels were expensive. Buffet at Laki was not worth it. The coach was very comfortable and a good size. Being able to charge phones was excellent.

Client from On the Go Tours

Last hotel can be better place than one we stayed, staff was not supportive. Guide was very passionate and knowledgable about Iceland, always informative and engaging. Laki Hotel was not the best place among all, staff was not helpful at all. Not for vegan at all. Driver was top notch throughout the trip. Coach couldnt have been better.

Client from Trip a Deal Australia

The tour from the time of meeting the tour guide was excellent. Very knowledgeable guide, pleasant and helpful at all times. Very good driver – careful at all times. Good quality & comfortable bus.

Client from Ijsland Tours

Lots of things to do, sometimes it just felt like rushing things though I can understand that. The guide did great and had lots to tell and gave it a nice funny twist. Good driving, nice and smooth.

Privacy Overview

Iceland's Classic Northern Lights

5 days | search for aurora and find glaciers, geysers and geothermal pools in iceland’s golden circle.

Pursue mother nature’s most spectacular show on a five-day winter adventure of Iceland’s southern coast. Experience the highlights of Iceland’s Golden Circle – soaking in the steamy geothermal waters of the Secret Lagoon and marvelling at the eruptions of the Strokkur Geysir, before strapping on the crampons and hiking across the Solheimajokull Glacier and feeling the mist of pristine waterfalls on your face. Rug up in your finest thermals and search the night sky for dancing lights.

Trip overview

• Make the most of Iceland’s long winter nights by tracking down the shimmering lights of the aurora borealis.
• Explore one of Europe’s largest ice caps on an adventurous walk over the alien landscape of Solheimajokull Glacier, and bask in the spray of the spectacular Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss falls.
• Get a taste for Iceland’s local flavours with a visit to a workshop where they use native ingredients to make herbal teas, jams and salts, all created by a family of sustainability champions.
• See the sights that make Iceland’s famous Golden Circle so celebrated, from Gulfoss Waterfall to Strokkur Geysir and Thingvellir National Park.
• There are few things more quintessentially Icelandic than soaking in a geothermal pool – experience it for yourself during a visit to the lesser-known Secret Lagoon.
• By travelling on this trip, you’ll learn about our Intrepid Foundation partner, Eden Reforestation Projects. Donations help them provide local employment opportunities and tackle climate change one tree at a time as they restore forests across 10 different countries. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.
• The northern lights are most visible during the colder months, when temperatures can reach -15 °C or below and snow is very likely. It's important to bring appropriate clothing such as a down jacket, thermals layers, gloves and suitable footwear.
• While there is a strong chance of seeing the northern lights in all their colourful glory (thanks to the high latitude, time of year and itinerary), nature makes no guarantees. On the rare occasion that your leader must alter the itinerary due to adverse weather, alternative activities will be offered.
• A remote location and high-performing currency are just two reasons Iceland can be an expensive destination. This affects things like museum entrance fees and outdoor activities but is especially noticeable when eating out. Your leader will be able to advise on ways to get the best value during your visit.

Welcome to Iceland! Your adventure begins in Reykjavik, the world’s northernmost capital and an eclectic place full of charm. At 6 pm you’ll meet your local leader and travel companions at an important welcome meeting at your hotel. If you arrive in Reykjavik with time to spare, why not hit the streets and explore the city's quirky boutiques and cosy cafes. After your welcome meeting, you may like to head into town with the group and get to know each other over dinner.

• Hotel (1 night)

There are no meals included on this day.

It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.

Wake up and take a moment to breathe in the fresh Icelandic air before heading out towards the Reykjanes Peninsula. Stop at family-run workshop where they use native Icelandic ingredients to make herbal teas, jams and salts. Tour their production area and learn more about their sustainability initiatives while sipping on a cup of their delicious tea. Next up you’ll see the Bridge between Continents, a footbridge that spans a fissure between the North American and Eurasian continental plates, and visit the eerie mud pools and steam vents of Gunnuhver, named for the angry ghost that is believed to have been trapped in the hot springs 400 years ago. A steaming bowl of lobster soup awaits you in the fishing village of Grindavik for lunch (vegetarian alternatives available), before you continue to Strandarkirkja, a Lutheran church that has been a landmark for seafaring travellers since the 12th century. After a busy day you’ll head for your accommodation near the town of Hveragerdi. This evening will be a good opportunity to turn your head to the skies in search of the Northern Lights.

• Reykjanes Peninsula - Herbal tea and salt workshop visit
• Reykjanes Peninsula - Gunnuhver hot springs
• Reykjanes Peninsula - Bridge between Continents
• Reykjanes Peninsula - Strandarkirkja
• Aurora Spotting (weather dependent)

Today’s total travel time is approximately 3 hours.

FEBRUARY AND MARCH 2024 DEPARTURES

Due to the ongoing volcanic eruption on the Reykjanes Peninsula we have had to re-route day 2:

Visit Hafnarfjordur with a visit to a local artist community and creative space. Visit the centre on a guided tour where you will learn about the history of the building, community and visit the artis workshops- meet some of the artists working in the space. 

Back on the road you will head to Borgarfjordur which is a fjord and a district in the southwestern part of Iceland. Here you will visit the Deildartunguhver hot spring, which is the highest-flowing hot spring in Europe. For lunch you will visit the Krauma thermal baths before visiting the unique Barnafossar waterfall. Best known for its dark history in folklore, this waterfall is a series of rapids flowing from the Hvita River

Inclusions: Hafnarfjordur – local artist community visit Deildartunguhver - hot spring Krauma - thermal baths Barnafossar waterfall.

Today is all about exploring Iceland’s famous Golden Circle. Head to the geyser geothermal area to check out Strokkur and watch as the geyser swells with blue water before erupting and shooting some 20-30 metres in the air. Marvel at the immense beauty and sheer power of the Gullfoss double waterfall on the Hvita River. After witnessing these natural wonders, it’s time to reap the benefits of Iceland’s geothermal activity for yourself, with a soak in the warm waters of the Secret Lagoon. Fed by various hot springs in the surrounding area, this spot is the oldest pool in Iceland – though it’s had a facelift since first opening in 1894. Once you're fully destressed (or before your fingertips start to prune), head back to your accommodation, and depending on the weather, rug up in warm clothing and head out in search of the northern lights.

• Golden Circle - Strokkur Geysir
• Fludir - Secret Lagoon
• Golden Circle - Gullfoss Waterfall

Start the day by visiting the magical Seljalandsfoss waterfall and take a walk behind its cascade for a different perspective, followed by the powerful Skogafoss waterfall, one of Iceland's biggest at a width of 25 metres and a drop of 60 metres. From here embark on a short hike to another breathtaking waterfall, Kvernufoos, hidden in a nearby valley, and unbeknownst to most. The waterfall is framed by moss-coated cliffs of lava rock, adding to its otherworldly appearance. After you’ve had your fill of gorgeous waterfalls, prepare to take a walk on one of Europe's biggest ice caps – the mighty Solheimajokull Glacier. No experience is necessary to partake in the hike – your guide will brief you on all you need to know so you can explore the icy caves and crevasses safely. This evening you’ll enjoy a comforting dinner at your accommodation before looking to the skies in search of dancing lights.

• South Coast - Kvernufoss Waterfall Hike
• South Coast - Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
• South Coast - Skogafoss Waterfall visit
• South Coast - Solheimajokull Glacier Hike

Today's glacier walk is dependent on weather conditions. In order to fit the ice crampons you will need to wear ankle high shoes. If you’d prefer to sit this activity out, you’ll have the chance to hike to the glacier's tongue instead.

It’s time to head back to Reykjavik. En route, stop at Thingvellir National Park to see the Parliament Plains, the site of Iceland’s first parliament. Thingvellir also contains the Silfra fissure, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are slowly pulling apart, the resulting gap partly filled with fresh water and clearly visible. Once you get back to Reykjavik, your leader will take you out on a walking tour to discover more of the history and culture of this fascinating city. Once this concludes, you will say your goodbyes and your adventure will come to an end.

• Reykjavik - Leader-led walking tour
• Golden Circle - Thingvellir National Park
• Reykjavik - Silfra Fissure Snorkelling Day Trip inc return transfer from Reykjavik - ISK28490
• Reykjavik - Lava Tunnel Tour - ISK11400
• Reykjavik - Settlement Exhibition - ISK2500
• Reykjavik - Whales of Iceland Museum - ISK4300
• Reykjavik - Saga Museum - ISK3600
• Reykjavik - Harpa Concert Hall - Free
• Reykjavik - Maritime Museum - ISK2350

This trip finishes after the walking tour of Reykjavik at approximately 2pm, subject to delays due to weather and road conditions. We recommend booking flights that depart after 6pm.

4 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner

Private vehicle

Hotel (4 nights)

Dates and availability

Important notes.

1. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information. 2. This trip starts in Reykjavik on Day 1 at 6pm. This trip finishes in Reykjavik at approximately 2pm on Day 5. Please do not book any flights until after 6pm.

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

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Iceland's Magical Northern Lights

About this tour.

Experience the “land of fire and ice” and chase the aurora borealis across an ethereal wonderland. In the dark of the night, search for the northern lights as you drift along on an evening starlit cruise. Travel the “Golden Circle,” home to renowned natural wonders, and spend time at Thingvellir National Park, gaze at Gullfoss waterfall, and see the explosive geothermal fields at Geysir. Explore Skógar Museum and see traditional turf-built homes. Walk on a black volcanic sand beach. See Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon filled with floating icebergs. Relax in the warm, mineral-rich water of the Blue Lagoon. Spend your days surrounded by natural wonders and your nights in search of the elusive dancing lights.

Your Tour Includes

• 3 Handpicked Accommodations

Included Highlights

• Northern Lights Cruise
• Search for the Northern Lights
• Golden Circle

Your Tour at a Glance

6 Breakfasts

Travel Style

Best time for travel.

Activity Level

• Level This Tour

For specific details about this tour's activity level and other info to know before you book your trip, click here.

Extension Style

Best time for travel iceland's magical northern lights.

While just about any month is great to visit Iceland, there are a few prime times of the year for the Iceland’s Magical Northern Lights tour. Here are some recommendations from our destination experts.

Winter: If snowy landscapes and the northern lights are what you’re after, then winter is the prime season to visit Iceland. Sure, it's cold and dark, and winter storms and road closures may be common, but with welcoming celebrations and festivities, and cozy coffeehouses, t's easy to warm up to Icelandic hospitality.

Spring: In spring, you can expect more hours of sunlight and thawing snow and ice, allowing you to explore the beautiful landscapes. In less-crowded March, you can still catch some of the winter activities, or even glimpse the northern lights.

Fall: Fall is a great time to see the northern lights in Iceland. September days can be bright and sunny, but the evening sky is dark enough for a beautiful aurora display. The temperature is slightly colder, but winter has yet to settle in, so the only snow you'll see is at the tops of the mountains in the distance. Iceland’s fall foliage puts on its own show, whether you’re walking in Reykjavik or hiking in the countryside.

Travel Styles

Highlights and inclusions.

Must-See Inclusions:

• Search for nature's dazzling display on a northern lights cruise in Reykjavík.
• Venture out into the countryside outside of Vík for 3 nights in search of more aurora borealis sightings.
• See Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon, filled with floating icebergs.

Relax in the warm, mineral-rich water of the Blue Lagoon.

Cultural Experiences:

Experience the energy at the geothermal fields of Geysir.

• Explore Skógar Museum, covering all aspects of Icelandic life.

Learn about the volcanic nature of the island of Iceland during a visit to the Lava Exhibition Center.

Straddle two continents while exploring Thingvellir’s rugged rift valley.

Culinary Inclusions:

Savor gourmet Icelandic cuisine at a popular local restaurant.

• Thingvellir National Park
• Lava Exhibition Center
• Seljalandsfoss
• Skógar Museum
• Skaftafell National Park
• Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon
• Sólheimajökull Glacier
• Blue Lagoon

Book with Confidence

* With Insurance Purchased

• *No Hassle Refunds
• Traveling Well Safety
• No booking fee, *no change fees
• Top Rated Travel Protection

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Getting Prepared

Know before you go, travel tips, enhance your tour.

Pre and Post Night Stay

Unique Experience

Cultural Experiences

Enhance Your Trip

• Tour Extensions

Hotel-Hotel Borg

Hotel-Sand Hotel

Search for nature's dazzling display on a northern lights cruise in Reykjavík.

Venture out into the countryside outside of Vík for 3 nights in search of more aurora borealis sightings.

See Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon, filled with floating icebergs.

Explore Skógar Museum, covering all aspects of Icelandic life.

Accommodations

Arrive earlier.

Pre Night: Hotel Borg From $240 per night

Centerhotel Plaza

Hotel dyrholaey, stay longer.

Post Night: Sand Hotel From $240 per night

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Protect Your Trip »

How to see the northern lights in iceland in 2024.

Increased solar activity means 2024 is a prime time to see the northern lights in Iceland.

Seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland

Tom Archer | Courtesy of Hidden Iceland

While Iceland isn't the only place in the world to view the northern lights, the Nordic country's prime location near the Arctic Circle means the light show can be visible for more than 100 nights per year. And 2024 in particular will provide prime viewing opportunities.

"Interestingly, the sun is reaching its solar maximum (increased activity that's conducive for northern lights) over the next few years, so 2024, 2025 and 2026 are prime years for getting a great light show," explains Ryan Connolly, co-founder of tour operator Hidden Iceland.

While you're never guaranteed to see the northern lights in Iceland, a little planning and forethought can pay off. Read on to discover the best time of year to visit, the most scenic places to go, unique tour options and more.

The best time to see the northern lights in Iceland

Northern lights forecast for iceland, tips for exploring on your own, the 5 best places to see the northern lights in iceland, iceland northern lights hotels, iceland northern lights tours.

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According to the country's tourism authority, the best time to see the northern lights in Iceland is from September to mid-April, between 9 p.m. and 2 a.m. – and particularly around midnight.

Within that September to April period, there's some debate about the optimal time to see the lights. Connolly cautions against a visit between late March and mid-April as well as in early September "so you don't have to stay up too late to watch the sun set." He and other experts recommend the following timeframes:

• November to January: You're generally more likely to catch the northern lights during these darkest months. The sun barely rises around this time of the year, and the extremely long nights mean a longer window for the phenomenon to appear each day.

Spring and fall equinoxes: Although midwinter probably offers the best chance of catching the aurora, some people recommend viewing it around the spring or fall equinoxes – that is, around March 19 and Sept. 22 (these dates change slightly each year). The science behind this timing is complex: In short, there tends to be more geomagnetic disturbance around the equinoxes, leading to stronger auroras. But don't forget that the nights at these times are shorter than in midwinter, so your daily window for seeing the northern lights will also be shorter.

"We loved visiting in the fall for the opportunity to see the northern lights and for how few tourists there were," says U.S. News Travel digital producer Leilani Osmundson , who has visited Iceland in the fall. "Sometimes it felt like we had the whole country to ourselves!"

• New moons: Moonlight can make it harder to spot the light show if the aurora is already faint – so serious aurora chasers may want to plan their visit to coincide with a new moon.

During the rest of the year, Iceland experiences near-constant daylight, meaning there isn't enough darkness for the aurora borealis to appear. Put simply, if you visit in late spring or summer, you will not be able to see the lights, even if you go to the best viewing locations.

These are the most reliable resources for determining the likelihood of spotting the northern lights in the coming days:

• The Icelandic Meteorological Office: On the Icelandic Met Office's website , forecasts show the Kp index, which measures disturbances in Earth's magnetic field on a scale of zero to nine; the higher the number on the index, the stronger the aurora activity. The Met Office site also shows the cloud cover across Iceland, helping you determine whether you'll actually be able to see the lights.
• Iceland's Aurora Forecast: Iceland's Aurora Forecast , which is run by locals with expert knowledge of the aurora, offers a similar forecast on a slightly more user-friendly site.

Unfortunately, longer-range predictions (for example, weeks or months in advance) are less reliable. There are 27-day forecasts available, but take note that solar activity can occur rapidly and may not factor into such predictions. However, due to the sun's rotation cycle, if a strong aurora appears, it is considered more likely that the lights will appear again 27 days later, so this type of forecast may still be worth checking.

While it requires some extra planning, you can easily explore Iceland on your own. If you're considering this route for your trip, take these expert travel tips into account:

• Avoid chasing the lights: "Once you are in an area with clear skies, you just need to wait, grab a cup of hot chocolate, and hope for the best," Connolly says. "Driving around aimlessly rarely provides any benefits and isn't much fun."
• Manage your expectations: "The northern lights don't necessarily always appear to the naked eye as we see them in photos," Osmundson explains. "On our trip, they looked super green through the camera, but silvery and very faded to the naked eye."
• Consider a self-drive tour: Several tour companies offer customized itineraries for travelers who want to explore on their own.
• Opt for four-wheel drive: Rent a vehicle with four-wheel drive for safety and peace of mind on wintry roads.
• Heed road restrictions and conditions: Regardless of when you visit, don't go off the beaten track – off-roading is strictly illegal. You'll also want to check road conditions via the Icelandic government's official portal to avoid weather-related accidents.
• Consider travel insurance: An international travel insurance policy can provide car rental protections, medical care coverage and more.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

The most basic rule for catching the northern lights is to go somewhere dark – and with Iceland's sparse population, there's no shortage of places that fit the bill. From fjords and glaciers to mountains and black sand beaches , these are some of the most notable places to see the northern lights in Iceland.

Jökulsárlón

This glacial lagoon is adorned with icebergs, which break off from the huge Vatnajökull glacier to the north. It's also populated by crowds of seals, making Jökulsárlón a stunning place to commune with nature and a formidable backdrop for the shimmering aurora. You can also watch the light show from Diamond Beach, a black sand beach right where the lake drains into the Atlantic.

Reynisfjara and other black sand beaches

Reynisfjara, near the southern village of Vik, is a popular tourist spot, and it won't be hard to see why once you take in the basalt columns dotted along this black sand beach. You might be able to find yourself a quiet corner either here or on another stretch of shoreline nearby, and you'll be surrounded by beautiful scenery while you wait for the light show.

Be on alert around the water – you must pay attention to your surroundings on the beaches, as so-called "sneaker waves" can cause injury or death. Consider stopping off at the spectacular 200-foot high Seljalandsfoss waterfall on the way; it's about 40 miles from Vik, on the main road from Reykjavik.

Snæfellsnes peninsula

About 130 miles northwest of Reykjavik, the Snæfellsnes peninsula centers around a huge volcano called Snæfellsjökull. There's plenty of impressive places to view the lights here – consider staking out a spot near the unusually pointy Kirkjufell mountain or on Djúpalónssandur beach, with its black sand and craggy rock formations. You can stay overnight in a number of villages in the area.

Reykjanes peninsula

Reykjanes has plenty of naturally beautiful backdrops for catching the lights. Kleifarvatn, a large and tranquil lake ringed by small mountains, sits about 20 miles south of Reykjavik, while another option is Krýsuvík, a geothermal area with hot springs south of the lake.

Thingvellir

This volcanic national park is located on the rift between two continental plates. About a 30-mile drive east of Reykjavik, Thingvellir – written as Þingvellir in Icelandic – offers varied scenery from volcanoes to lakes to famous Iceland waterfalls . Take note: As part of the Golden Circle tour route, Thingvellir is a popular spot for aurora viewing, so you may not be alone.

Kristján Pétur Vilhelmsson | Courtesy of Hotel Rangá

If you're planning a self-guided visit, book an Airbnb or hotel that caters to aurora spotters. Below is a sampling of hotels that offer special viewing locations and wake-up calls if the lights appear after you go to bed.

Hotel Rangá

Tucked in a charming timber building near the south coast of Iceland , this hotel specializes in aurora viewing, with an observatory on its roof and an aurora wake-up service. The hotel also lends out snowsuits for those who want to spend time outside and boasts a 24/7 bar with hot drinks to seal the deal. Guests have praised Hotel Rangá's incredible service, calling it the kind of luxury place that's relaxing and not too formal.

The Retreat Hotel and Silica Hotel

The Blue Lagoon's geothermal waters would be a formidable place to spot the northern lights, but daytime visitors can't stay past late evening – before the aurora tends to appear. However, guests in the two on-site hotels don't have to stress about this timing. Offering ultra-chic minimalist rooms, access to private lagoons and otherworldly views, The Retreat Hotel and Silica Hotel at the Blue Lagoon resort offer a true luxury experience, with prices to match. Despite the price, guests rave about the beauty of this hotel's location and its stylish design.

Hótel Húsafell

Located on a former farm in the Icelandic wilderness, this hotel says it gets an average of three aurora sightings per week in the winter months. Hótel Húsafell also offers a complimentary aurora wake-up service so you don't miss the show. Its location near the Langjökull glacier means stellar views during the day too. Recent visitors enjoyed the range of activities on offer around the hotel in addition to the restaurant, noting that although the menu options are limited, the food is divine.

Panorama Glass Lodge

There's no need to go out in the cold to see the northern lights when you're staying in an all-glass cabin. Hot tubs and heated floors at the Panorama Glass Lodge make the views over the rocky tundra all the more cozy. Guests have plenty of compliments for this lodge's scenic setting, as well as the luxury and comfort of its one-of-a-kind design.

Hótel Búdir

A rustic building now plays host to this stylish yet homey hotel on the Snæfellsnes peninsula, with aurora wake-up calls; fine dining sourced from local purveyors; and stellar views that span glaciers, lava fields and the Atlantic. According to past guests, the old-timey charm and restaurant and bar are serious highlights at Hótel Búdir (also written Búðir).

Skálakot Manor Hotel

This luxury lodge is located on a horse farm in remote southern Iceland – the perfect place to spot the aurora. In addition to tours on horseback, the hotel offers cozy guest rooms, a fine dining restaurant and a spa. Recent visitors, many of whom visited to enjoy the resort's amenities for a day, note how stunning the location is.

Northern lights tours with a guided expert may increase your chances of spotting the natural phenomenon, but remember: Seeing the northern lights is never a sure bet, and as such, tour operators have various policies to account for this. Below are some of the best tour options.

Multiday tours

• Hidden Iceland: Hidden Iceland offers an immersive, private Must See 6+ Day Private Tour Winter Itinerary that combines daytime activities like discovering a blue ice cave with overnight stays in remote locations that are ideal for spotting the northern lights. Recent travelers praise Hidden Iceland, especially the tour guides.
• Arctic Adventures: Arctic Adventures offers a two-day tour focused on the aurora and the Snæfellsnes peninsula north of Reykjavik, including sights of waterfalls and a black sand beach. A six-day tour with Arctic Adventures explores the south of the country, including an ice cave and a black sand beach, as well as a northern lights boat excursion from Reykjavik. Take note, though, that this tour does not accept children younger than 8, while the age minimum for the two-day tour is 6 years old. The company has received generally good feedback for its organization – negative reviews tend to come from customers who didn't get to spot the aurora.
• GJ Travel: Another reliable bet is GJ Travel, which has been showing visitors around Iceland for more than 90 years. This tour operator has garnered high praise for its "jam-packed" itineraries and extremely experienced guides. GJ Travel offers multiple northern lights tours that also stop off at key sights around Iceland. Choose a five-day tour or an eight-day trip , and know that these excursions may carry up to 40 people.

Northern lights tours from Reykjavik

• Iceland Everywhere
• Reykjavik Outventure
• Special Tours
• Elding Whale Watching

For more options, check out our list of the best Iceland tours .

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, the northern lights can be visible from Reykjavík . "It's a myth that it's impossible to see them in the city," Connolly says. "If you find yourself stuck in Reykjavík each night, don't be disheartened – there are still plenty of places with wide-open views of the ocean and away from direct light, such as along the harbour downtown." Other local viewing spots include:

• Öskjuhlíð: This hill on the south side of Reykjavík offers decent views of the northern lights from the top. While you're up there, you can visit the spectacular glass-domed Perlan, a museum and restaurant offering an immersive aurora documentary in its unique planetarium, as well as spectacular views over Reykjavik. Although it's possible to see the lights from Perlan, the museum typically closes midevening, before the best viewing hours for the aurora.
• Seltjarnarnes peninsula: Located on the western edge of the city, this area's top viewing spot is the Grótta lighthouse, which provides scenic vistas of the night sky just far enough from the city lights.
• Mount Esja: If you have a car but want to stay close to the city, consider driving less than 20 miles out of toward snow-capped Mount Esja, which provides a splendid backdrop for the light show (but note that hiking on the mountain is not recommended during aurora season due to icy conditions).

Yes, though it's less likely as the Blue Lagoon typically closes in the late evening during the winter and early spring, which is often too early to see the northern lights.

Iceland's weather can be unpredictable. Because there's no easy way to plan around the changing forecasts, it's best to book a longer visit to the country. A two-day jaunt could easily be ruined by one patch of cloudy weather; if you stay on the island for a week, however, your chances of catching clear skies are much better.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Packable Jackets
• How to See the Northern Lights in Alaska
• The World's Best Places to See the Northern Lights
• The Best Travel Insurance for Europe

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Iceland Northern Lights 5 Day Itinerary

Golden Circle, Snaefellsnes Peninsula, South Coast Sightseeing & Northern Lights Expedition

• Northern Lights Iceland Itinerary
• Day 1 - Reykjavik & Borgarfjörður
• Day 2 - Snæfellsnes
• Day 3 - Golden Circle
• Day 4 - Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
• Day 5 - South Iceland

Related Tours

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Embark on a 5-day adventure in Iceland, filled with breathtaking landscapes, geothermal wonders, and the mesmerizing Northern Lights. From the geysers of the Golden Circle to the glaciers of Vatnajökull, this itinerary is your ticket to the best that Iceland has to offer.

If you're reading this, you're probably dreaming of witnessing the ethereal beauty of the Northern Lights . Well, you're in luck! We've crafted a 5-day itinerary that will take you through some of Iceland's most stunning landscapes while chasing the elusive auroras. So, buckle up, and let's get started!

Northern Lights Iceland Itinerary Overview

Day 1 - Reykjavik and Borgarfjörður

• Deildartunguhver Hot Spring
• Reykholt and Snorralaug Hot Spring Pool
• Hraunfossar Waterfall
• Barnafoss Waterfall
• Northern Lights Viewing in Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Day 2 - Snæfellsnes Peninsula

• Arnarstapi Village
• Vatnshellir Cave (optional)
• Hellnar Village
• Djúpalónssandur Black Pebble Beach
• Mount Kirkjufell

Day 3 - The Golden Circle

• Þingvellir National Park
• Geysir Geothermal Area
• Gullfoss Waterfall
• Northern Lights Viewing near Vík

Day 4 - Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Glacier Hiking

• Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
• Vatnajökull Glacier Hike
• Ice Cave Exploration
• Northern Lights Viewing in Skaftafell Area

Day 5 - South Iceland Sightseeing

• Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon
• Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
• Skógafoss Waterfall
• Northern Lights Viewing on the way back to Reykjavik

Sun Voyager sculpture with northern lights in the background

On this Iceland itinerary, Northern Lights viewing will be your main goal, however, you will have a huge bonus of exploring Iceland while you’re at it!

Your adventure begins in Reykjavik , the vibrant capital of Iceland. As you leave the city behind, you'll be greeted by scenic fjords and bays as you head north. Your first stop is Deildartunguhver , the most powerful hot spring in Europe. This geothermal marvel is a testament to Iceland's volcanic activity, pumping out an impressive 180 liters per second of hot water at a scalding 100°C. This hot water is used to heat homes and buildings in the surrounding area, showcasing Iceland's innovative use of its natural resources.

Next, explore Reykholt , a historic site once the home of Snorri Sturluson, one of Iceland's most famous saga writers. Here, you can see Snorralaug , a small hot spring pool in which Snorri himself is said to have bathed. The day ends with a visit to Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls. Hraunfossar is unique for its series of waterfalls that pour out from underneath a lava field while Barnafoss has a tragic legend attached to it.

As night falls, you'll be in the perfect location to glimpse the Northern Lights . The Snæfellsnes peninsula, where you can stay overnight, is known for its dark skies, free from light pollution, making it an ideal spot for Aurora Borealis viewing. Remember to stay warm and patient—the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon that takes time to appear.

Northern lights over the Kirkjufell mountain in Sneafellsnes Peninsula

After breakfast, head west to the traditional fishing village of Arnarstapi . This charming village is surrounded by stunning coastal and mountain scenery, making it a photographer's dream. Afterward, you can join a guided tour to explore the Vatnshellir Cave (additional cost). This lava tube offers a glimpse into the volcanic activity that has shaped Iceland. This is a unique opportunity to venture beneath the surface and see the geological formations that Iceland is famous for.

We suggest stopping for lunch at Hellnar and visiting the black pebble beach at Djúpalónssandur and the famous Mount Kirkjufell . This mountain is one of the most photographed in Iceland, and you will see why with its distinctive shape and surrounding scenery.

As the day ends, we recommend returning to a hotel in Reykjavik. The journey back provides another opportunity to spot the Northern Lights. The clear skies and open landscapes of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula offer a fantastic backdrop for the dancing auroras! Just make sure to keep checking the Northern Lights forecast for the best hunt results.

Day 3 - The Golden Circle Tour

Northern Lights over the Gullfoss waterfall in Iceland

The third day of your adventure takes you to the famous views of the Golden Circle . You'll start with Þingvellir National Park , a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the tectonic plates of North America and Eurasia meet. This is one of the few places in the world where you can walk (or even snorkel ) between two continental plates, a truly unique experience!

Next, you'll visit the Geysir geothermal area , home to the Strokkur geyser , which erupts every few minutes. This is a fantastic opportunity to witness the power of Iceland's geothermal activity firsthand. The day ends with a visit to the majestic Gullfoss Waterfall , a stunning two-tiered waterfall on the Hvítá River. We highly recommend river rafting here if you are visiting in the summer season!

As the sun sets, we suggest booking accommodation near Vík town . This southern location, away from the city lights, is another excellent spot for seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland .

Northern lights over the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Day four starts with a visit to the famous Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon . Here, you can see icebergs that have broken off from the glacier floating in the water. This surreal landscape is a must-see in Iceland. You might even spot some seals frolicking among the icebergs if you're lucky!

The adventure continues as you head towards Vatnajökull glacier for a hiking adventure . As you explore the glacier and its ice caves, you'll learn about the forces that shape these icy landscapes. This is a unique opportunity to walk on one of the largest glaciers in Europe and see the blue ice up close.

As night falls, you'll be in the ideal location to spot the Northern Lights . The Skaftafell area, where you'll be staying, is known for its clear skies and minimal light pollution. The contrast of the Aurora Borealis against the icy landscape is a sight to behold!

Northern lights in the south of Iceland

The final day of your adventure takes you to some of the most famous sights on Iceland's South Coast . You'll start with a visit to Fjaðrárgljúfur , a stunning canyon carved out by melting glaciers. Visiting Fjadrargljufur Canyon is an experience to remember, especially if you are up for hiking.

Next, you'll visit the black sand beach of Reynisfjara , known for its basalt columns and the Reynisdrangar sea stacks. This beach is a testament to Iceland's volcanic activity, with the black sand formed from volcanic rocks and ash. The day ends with a visit to Skógafoss , one of Iceland's biggest and most beautiful waterfalls .

As your journey comes to an end, you'll return to Reykjavik. But not before one last chance to see the Northern Lights . The trip back to the city provides a fantastic opportunity to spot the auroras, capping off an unforgettable adventure in Iceland.

Iceland 5-Day Itinerary Northern Lights: Conclusion

Northern lights in Iceland

As we wrap up this guide to your 5-day Northern Lights adventure in Iceland, we can't help but feel excited for the fantastic journey that's waiting for you. With its powerful geysers, massive glaciers, and the magical Northern Lights, Iceland is more than just a place to visit - it's a wild adventure that touches your heart. This trip is not just about following an itinerary; it's about experiencing unforgettable moments that will stay with you long after you return home.

Alternatively, we invite you to join us on a guided tour , where we'll explore the stunning landscapes together, ensuring every part of your trip is filled with awe.

So, get ready for an adventure, pack your bags, and let's chase the Northern Lights across the beautiful Icelandic sky. The Land of Fire and Ice is calling, and it's time to answer!

Iceland 5-Day Itinerary Northern Lights - FAQs

What is the best month to see the northern lights in iceland.

The Northern Lights season in Iceland is from late September to late March. This is when the nights are the longest, providing the dark conditions necessary for viewing the lights. However, this is a natural phenomenon, and sightings can never be guaranteed.

How long should I stay in Iceland to see the Northern Lights?

A stay of at least a week is recommended to have a good chance of seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland. This allows for any potential weather disruptions and increases your chances of experiencing clear, dark skies. However, sightings can never be guaranteed as they depend on solar activity and weather conditions.

Is it worth doing a Northern Lights tour in Iceland?

Yes, it is worth doing a Northern Lights guided tour in Iceland. These tours are led by experienced guides who know the best locations and times for viewing the lights. They can also provide valuable information about the Northern Lights in Iceland and how to photograph them.

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Northern Lights Tours in Iceland

Explore the Land of Fire and Ice on an Iceland northern lights tour and you could witness the aurora borealis in all its multi-coloured, enchanting beauty. These self-drive and guided packages are curated by local experts and include accommodation, local transport and more.

37 tours available

Prices per adult based on bookings for two

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Iceland Full Circle Classic - Winter

South iceland at leisure - winter, northern lights circle tour.

Winter Highlights & Northern Lights

Ice cave & glacier lagoon.

Best of South & West Iceland - Winter

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1217702 ISK

Iceland Full Circle Classic - Winter - Private

1598386 ISK

Golden Circle & South Coast - Winter - Private

Iceland luxury adventure - winter, northern lights, winter wonders & blue lagoon retreat.

1157452 ISK

Iceland Luxury Escape - Winter

Northern lights, south iceland & blue lagoon retreat.

1794264 ISK

Iceland Luxury Escape at Leisure - Winter

2328410 ISK

Iceland Luxury Adventure at Leisure - Winter

1639689 ISK

South & West Iceland Classic Winter - Private

1220182 ISK

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About Your Iceland Northern Lights Package

Picture yourself chasing magical, flickering displays of the aurora borealis in Iceland. Crafted by Reykjavík-based experts, these winter itineraries will get you to the right place at the right time for spotting the northern lights*. Plus, with insider tips from your dedicated travel consultant, you’ll have an unforgettable time exploring the country’s top spots and hidden treasures.

When you book an Iceland northern lights vacation with Nordic Visitor, you can expect:

• An authentic travel experience operated by a trusted local company • A dedicated travel consultant who will arrange your tour • Opportunities to hunt for the aurora , whether you choose a self-drive or guided trip • A comfortable journey in your chosen rental car or on your minibus tour • Handpicked accommodation for a relaxing stay in Iceland • 24/7 phone support during your adventure for peace of mind

1. Pick your favourite Nordic Visitor tour 2. Confirm (or customise) your package 3. Check your confirmation email 4. Book your flights 5. Get ready for your trip

*Please note, the northern lights are a natural phenomenon so sightings aren’t guaranteed.

Why choose Nordic Visitor

Book With Confidence

Secure your trip your way with Nordic Visitor. Book a tour with as little as 10% deposit. With a 20% deposit or more, you will receive our Cancellation Protection free of charge. You can also pay the full price right away to guarantee today’s exchange rate. Terms & conditions apply.

Trusted travel experts

Established in 2002, Nordic Visitor is a leading tour operator based in Reykjavík. With local experts that live and breathe Iceland, you’ll have a better chance of seeing the lights. Along with discovering the best aurora-watching spots, you’ll get insight into the must-see attractions and beyond.

Great reviews

Nordic Visitor is dedicated to the best service quality, and this is reflected year after year when TripAdvisor awards us with their Certificate of Excellence. We also take great pride in our customer feedback: 97% of our travellers say they would recommend us to friends and family.

Customisable tour options

Your travel wish list is unique to you, so why not personalise these Iceland northern lights tours to match? Book online to see what optional extras are available for your trip. For instance, you could extend your stay with additional nights, upgrade your accommodation and choose from handpicked excursions.

Full financial protection

With Nordic Visitor, you have peace of mind knowing your tour arrangements with us are 100% financially protected. Your payments are safeguarded as we comply with European Union laws on Package Travel regulations. This guarantees you a refund in the unlikely event of insolvency.

You are in good hands

When you travel with us, you’re never alone. Should any unforeseen events or weather issues arise, speak to a local travel consultant by calling our 24/7 helpline. If needed, they’ll rearrange your accommodation and activities to ensure your journey is memorable for all the right reasons.

Handpicked hotels

Your accommodation has been specially chosen and tested by us to ensure you’ll have a relaxing visit. So get ready to check in and recharge your batteries. Depending on your trip, you might be staying in the countryside. And low light pollution is ideal for seeing the northern lights more clearly.

Reviews for Aurora Tour Packages

Find out what guests loved most about chasing the northern lights in Iceland.

Janice United States

I cannot thank Nordic Visitor enough for providing me with a wonderful and memorable once-in-a-lifetime experience.... read more

I cannot thank Nordic Visitor enough for providing me with a wonderful and memorable once-in-a-lifetime experience. Everything was seamless, from the pickup at the airport, to the excellent hotels, delicious food served and our friendly, knowledgeable guide, Jakob. Nothing was too much trouble - we all thoroughly enjoyed our experience in Iceland, and all came away with wonderful memories of many of the amazing sights of such a scenic country. We were even lucky enough to see the northern lights. I will certainly travel with Nordic Visitor again and would recommend them to anyone thinking about visiting the countries where they offer tours. Thank you Nordic Visitor!

Duncan Australia

The tour was a great experience, and particularly for us with the good conditions. The amazing northern lights... read more

The tour was a great experience, and particularly for us with the good conditions. The amazing northern lights display we saw on the last night will be something we will never forget (and we have the photos!). The accommodation was really good throughout and was a real surprise as we moved away from Reykjavík. There was plenty of time through the tour to explore waterfalls and glaciers. I would absolutely recommend this to everyone who wants to experience the whole of Iceland. 

Your Northern Lights Trip Highlights

Imagine the cool winter air in your lungs, a clear night sky above and your camera at the ready as you hunt for the aurora. Visit Iceland and you could…

• Venture into the countryside to look for enchanting displays of the northern lights
• Explore the Golden Circle’s iconic sights: Gullfoss waterfall, Geysir , and Þingvellir National Park
• See icebergs bobbing on the turquoise waters of Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon
• Marvel at cascading waterfalls, such as Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss , when they’re frosted with icicles
• Experience Iceland’s dazzling ice caps on a guided hike or opt for an Into the Glacier excursion
• Unwind in the mineral-rich waters of the Blue Lagoon , perhaps even surrounded by snow-dusted lava fields
• Soak up wintry scenery in the wild Westfjords and stunning Snæfellsjökull National Park
• Wander along the black volcanic sands of Reynisfjara beach and gaze out at the troll-like sea stacks
• Immerse yourself in Icelandic culture in Reykjavík , and in the capital of the north, Akureyri

Advice for Northern Lights Holidays in Iceland

Check out these travel guides before your magical northern lights tour.

Northern Lights Guide

Learn more about this natural wonder and how to prepare for seeing it

What to pack

Layers, layers, layers! Come prepared for all types of weather

Climate & weather conditions

How icy is Iceland? You might be surprised

Winter driving in Iceland

In a country where 'ice' is part of the name, it's good to be prepared

Frequently Asked Questions About Northern Lights Tour Packages

Check out the answers to these most frequently asked questions to find out more about northern lights trips in Iceland. Plus, browse this Iceland Travel Guide for useful tips and information.

It’s also good to know that when you choose Nordic Visitor, you can Book With Confidence , safe in the knowledge that your payments are protected. Please read our FAQs and booking terms , for details about our booking process, payments and more.

1. What causes the northern lights?

While the northern lights, or aurora borealis, do look otherworldly, there’s a scientific explanation for this breathtaking natural phenomenon.

It all starts with solar storms around the sun that send blasts of electrically charged particles towards Earth. When they collide with the upper atmosphere, they produce glowing emissions. If a lot of these reactions take place at the same time, it causes a jaw-dropping light show that you can see in the sky.

The movement, shapes and colours you’ll witness depend on the type of atoms involved. Other factors include the intensity of solar activity and the pull of Earth’s magnetic forces.

For instance, green is often the most common colour you’ll notice during an aurora event. But if the levels of solar activity are high, you might also catch flashes of blue, purple and red.

Delve deeper into what causes the northern lights .

2. Is Iceland good for the northern lights?

Absolutely! Visit Iceland in winter – October to March – and you’ll discover it’s an excellent place to go if you want to hunt for the aurora.

This is because you’ll need darkness if you’re to see the northern lights, making Iceland’s long winter nights ideal. Low light pollution, high solar activity and cloudless skies are the other key things you’ll need to come together. Happily, you can also experience these in Iceland.

You’ll also find that the country has large unpopulated regions where there’s little or no light pollution – perfect for chasing the aurora. Plus, as it lies within the “northern lights belt” (or “aurora zone”) there’s lots of solar activity in the skies above Iceland.

Just wait for a night with clear skies, keep an eye on your aurora forecast app , and you could glimpse the northern lights. Uncover top tips and more in this guide to the aurora in Iceland .

3. When can you see the aurora borealis in Iceland?

The winter months of October to March are the best time for you to see the northern lights in Iceland . This is because, across the Northern Hemisphere, the nights are long and dark at this time of year.

In fact, during mid-winter – December and early January – the days can be so short that you’ll have around 19 hours of darkness. And the longer the nights, the more chances you’ll have to spot the aurora.

For more information on daylight in Iceland , check out this travel guide.

4. Can you see the aurora borealis in May, June, July or August?

There are plenty of reasons to visit Iceland in summer , but don’t travel in May , June , July or August if you want to see the aurora. This is because you need dark skies to see the northern lights. And during summertime, the nights are not dark or long enough to see them.

Instead, you’ll want to visit between October and March – the Icelandic winter – when your chances of seeing the lights are much better. It’s also possible to glimpse the aurora in early spring ( April ) and autumn ( September ).

Discover more about the best time to explore Iceland , depending on your interests.

5. Where can you see the northern lights in Iceland?

Thanks to winter’s long nights, you can see the northern lights all over Iceland at this time of year.

What’s more, the country sits within a zone called the “northern lights belt”, a band encircling the globe at latitudes of 65-72°N. With the most frequent and intense levels of solar activity, this region is the best place to go to if you want to see the aurora.

Remember, for the brightest and clearest displays, head away from any nearby light pollution. By venturing into the countryside, where it’s darker, you’ll get to enjoy this natural spectacle at its most vibrant.

Explore other places to see the northern lights on these aurora trips in Northern Europe .

6. How often does the aurora borealis occur in Iceland?

The aurora borealis can happen at any time throughout the year. But over the spring and autumn equinoxes, you’ll find that solar activity ramps up. This means displays of the aurora could occur more frequently around these dates in March and September respectively.

Compared to the middle of winter, the nights are shorter over the equinoxes. So although the northern lights might not be dancing quite as much in winter, you’ll have a better chance of seeing them during these darker months.

Along with the solar activity that causes the aurora, you’ll need a few other key factors to come together at the same time. These are clear skies, darkness and low levels of light pollution.

One of the most convenient ways to keep an eye on the levels of solar activity is to download an aurora app to your smartphone. Combine this with a local weather forecast, and you’ll get a good idea of when you might be able to see the northern lights. So keep a look out for when a cloudless night and high solar activity match up.

It’s worth bearing in mind that even if you do have the right conditions for the northern lights, they may not appear when you want them to.

7. What is the best way to see the northern lights?

The best way to see the northern lights depends on how you want to experience Iceland. Not to mention the other things you’d like to see and do while you’re here.

With Nordic Visitor, you can choose the travel style that works for your northern lights getaway. Take your pick from self-drive, small group and privately guided tour packages, along with stays in Reykjavík that include guided excursions.

To embrace the freedom of going at your own pace while chasing the northern lights, choose a winter self-drive tour in Iceland . Your package will include accommodation, a rental car, daily breakfast and more. You’ll also benefit from the insider know-how of your dedicated travel consultant who’ll make all the arrangements for you.

They’ll give you a detailed itinerary and hand-marked map, complete with recommendations on where to stop along the way. And with a car, you can make spontaneous stops on your trip. So if the aurora appears unexpectedly, you can hop into your car and pick a good viewing spot.

But if you’d rather leave the winter driving to someone else, opt for a small group tour of Iceland . This way, a professional guide will show you the country’s iconic spots and hidden gems, and share their local knowledge with you. On winter tours, they’ll also be keeping an eye on when the northern lights might appear.

If you’d like to be accompanied by a driver-guide while having the freedom to customise your trip, pick a privately guided tour . This option gives you the flexibility of an independent trip while benefitting from the expertise of a local guide.

Plus, if you have specific interests, we’ll select a guide to match. Not to mention you’ll be able to choose your travel companions – perfect for a break with friends or family.

On the other hand, multi-day tours are ideal if you’d like to stay in one location during your time in Iceland. Most of these packages are based in the bustling capital of Reykjavík.

As well as accommodation, your trip comes with handpicked excursions into the stunning countryside. This lets you discover top spots such as the Blue Lagoon and Golden Circle without needing to unpack and repack your bags.

8. How to photograph the aurora borealis in Iceland?

Seeing the aurora with your own eyes is a spellbinding experience you’ll never forget! But capturing the lights on camera can be tricky if you don’t take some time to get to know your camera’s settings.

An SLR camera with manual focus works well. And it helps to have a tripod to avoid blurry images. Here are some top tips for getting the best shots of the northern lights:

• Shutter release: For even steadier shots, get a remote shutter release so you don’t have to touch the camera at all when taking a picture.
• Spare batteries: Cold temperatures tend to deplete the life of your battery levels faster, so make sure to bring 1 or 2 spares.
• Head torch: This will be essential to let you see what you’re doing when you’re shooting in the dark.
• Image stabilisation: If your camera has this, turn it off.
• ISO: To increase your camera’s sensitivity to light, set the ISO to around 400, 800, or higher if possible.
• Aperture (f-stop): Set your aperture as low as possible. This will result in more light coming through the lens. On most cameras, you’ll find you can get this down to about 3.5.
• Shutter speed: Use a long exposure of 15 to 30 seconds. The longer the exposure, the more light your camera will capture.

9. Can I customise my tour package?

All of these northern lights packages have been curated by Iceland-based experts to ensure you’ll have an unforgettable trip. But it’s also possible to personalise your tour by extending your stay or adding optional activities to your itinerary.

In fact, it’s easy to tailor your trip when you book online. You can choose from extra night options and additional excursions. For instance, you could chase the northern lights by boat or super jeep. Or why not try activities such as relaxing in the Sky Lagoon, snowmobiling on a glacier, and exploring ice caves?

For the ultimate tailored travel experience, opt for a privately guided tour of Iceland . Not only will your dedicated travel consultant customise your itinerary to your needs, but you’ll also get a guide with similar interests.

If there’s something specific you want to do during your trip, just ask your travel consultant – they’ll have the inside scoop.

10. Can I choose the arrival date?

Travel with Nordic Visitor and you can choose from a variety of northern lights trips in Iceland with availability from September to April.

On self-drive, privately guided and multi-day packages, you can pick any of the available start dates in the tour’s online calendar. Meanwhile, on guided small group trips, select the date that works for you from the list of available departures.

Meanwhile, northern lights Christmas and New Year packages in Iceland are available over the festive period with selected December departure dates. If you want to travel at this time of year, make sure to book early so you don’t miss out.

To see which start dates are available for the tour you are interested in, check its availability calendar online.

11. When should I organise my flights?

We recommend checking to see what flights are available before booking your trip. That said, it’s best to hold off on purchasing your flights until after your dedicated travel consultant has finalised the arrangements for your tour.

Once you’ve heard from them, you can go ahead and confirm your plans for getting to Iceland.

12. What to wear to see the northern lights in Iceland?

The weather in Iceland is known for being unpredictable. There’s even a popular Icelandic word, “gluggaveður”, which translates as “window weather” in English. This is when it might look warm from the inside, but in fact it’s a cold day outside.

What’s more, when you’re chasing the northern lights, you’ll be out and about at night, so be sure to wrap up warm. With this in mind, it’s best to bring plenty of layers for your winter getaway. Here’s a list of what to pack for Iceland to get you started:

• Winter boots with good grip
• Waterproof and windproof jacket and trousers
• Down or synthetic insulated jacket
• Woollen or fleece jumpers
• Thermal baselayers
• Cosy hat, scarf and gloves
• Thick hiking socks
• Reusable water bottle
• Flask for a warm drink

For more tips on how to dress for the seasons, check out this blog on what to wear in Iceland .

Get in touch with us, whether you have a question about northern lights tours in Iceland or want to start planning your trip. Our Reykjavík-based travel experts want to help you make the most of your winter escape to Iceland.

Our Icelandic phone number is +354 578 20 80

How about a live chat with one of our local travel experts?

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Northern Lights tour packages in Iceland

Wintry Iceland makes the perfect backdrop for seeking out the Northern Lights. On an Iceland Northern Lights tour with Iceland Tours, you get places to stay, local transport, and loads of chances to spot the Aurora. And there’s plenty to keep you busy in the day too.

• Chances to chase down the Northern Lights
• Daily breakfast at your accommodation
• 24/7 helpline whilst you’re in Iceland
• Winter adventure activities available to add

18 trips found

Iceland Ultimate Day Tripper with Northern Lights

Combine a stay in wintry Reykjavík with guided day tours into the frosted countryside.

Christmas Wonders of Iceland Group Adventure

Spend Christmas in Iceland and glimpse waterfalls, glaciers, volcanoes, and more

Northern Lights Ring Road Group Adventure

Explore jaw-dropping landscapes and learn about local culture from an expert guide.

Winter Wonders of Iceland – Big Group Adventure

Set off on a wintry adventure around the south coast.

Winter Wonders of Iceland – Small Group Adventure

Discover top attractions in winter with a local guide.

Active Iceland Fire and Ice Expedition

Experience glaciers up close and walk in the footsteps of lava.

Iceland Ring Road Winter Group Adventure

Travel around this winter wonderland with an expert guide.

Ice Adventure Day Tripper with Northern Lights

The super customizable one.

Active Iceland Fire and Ice Expedition with Northern Lights

Immerse yourself in jaw-dropping natural beauty

Ice Cave & Golden Circle Day Tripper with Northern Lights

Experience the best of Icelandic winter.

Iceland Thrill and Relax Winter Combo

Experience ice caving, snowmobiling, chasing the aurora, and more.

Golden Circle Day Tripper with Northern Lights

The perfect customizable winter escape.

Showing 12 of 18 trips

About our Iceland Northern Lights vacations

Iceland is the perfect wintry playground for a different kind of escape. On a Northern Lights trip to Iceland, you can spend the day surrounded by incredible nature and while away the nights spotting the Aurora. With these Iceland package holidays, the Northern Lights is just one reason to book. We arrange everything for you, including accommodation, local transport, and activities. That way you can focus on hunting down the majestic norðurljós (Aurora Borealis). We also offer a range of travel styles, including self-drive, multi-day bus tours, and more. So you can find the perfect trip for you, one you’ll remember for a lifetime!

• Secure your trip today with just a 5% deposit
• Easily cancel or amend your booking
• Get great value for money across all our trips
• Receive a detailed itinerary packed with suggestions

Don’t take our word for it

See what hundreds of fellow travelers have to say about their trips with Iceland Tours.

FAQs about Iceland Northern Lights tour packages

What are the northern lights.

The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, are a natural phenomenon found in Iceland and other Arctic countries. They’re caused by the solar wind – streams of particles given off by the Sun – interacting with the Earth’s magnetic field.

You’ll notice them as colorful ribbons of blue, green, purple, and sometimes red light dancing across the sky. They’re a breathtaking sight and one that’ll stick in your mind.

Find out more about them in this guide to the Northern Lights .

When can you see the Northern Lights in Iceland?

The Aurora are actually there all year round, but to be able to see them you need darkness. This means you’ll want to visit in the winter months of October to March to maximize your chances of seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland.

They start to become visible in the fall , from the very end of August onwards, and can be spotted as late as April , during spring in Iceland . The only thing is the nights are shorter, so there’s less pure darkness, meaning it can be trickier to see the Aurora during that time.

Luckily, there’s plenty to do in Iceland in winter. It’s a great time to visit, Northern Lights or not!

Where is the best place to see the Northern Lights in Iceland?

Any spot with low levels of light pollution should be good for hunting the Aurora. To find one, you’ll need to head out into the countryside, away from the city lights.

Of course, the Northern Lights are even more gobsmacking if you’re standing in an incredible landscape. Find out all about the best places to see the Northern Lights in Iceland .

You can also join Northern Lights tours led by experienced tour guides. They’ll take you out to an ideal hunting location and give you photography tips! You can even join the next excursion for free if you don’t spot them the first time around.

What is the best weather for seeing the Northern Lights?

To see this natural light show, you need 3 things:

• Clear conditions
• A dark night sky
• High levels of solar activity

Whilst you’re in Iceland, make sure to keep your eye on the weather forecasts for the right conditions. The weather doesn’t affect the intensity of the lights themselves, but you won’t be able to see them if there’s cloud cover.

If you get the right conditions, you might be lucky to enough to spot the magical Northern Lights twirling overhead.

How do you take pictures of the Northern Lights?

The Northern Lights are best seen with your own eyes, but it’s definitely possible to take a great picture of them with the right gear. You’ll need an SLR camera or a phone that allows you to take long exposures.

For the lights to show up on film, you should adjust the exposure time on your camera to at least 30 seconds or even a few minutes. It’s also worth bringing a tripod to keep the image nice and steady.

Capturing the lights on camera can make them look more vivid. With a bit of trial and error, you can get that jaw-dropping snap!

What else can you do on an Iceland Northern Lights vacation?

The Northern Lights season falls during Icelandic winter, when there is a whole bunch of exciting stuff to see and do:

• Explore glittering ice caves under the surface of a glacier
• Marvel at icicle-clad waterfalls on the south coast
• Relax and unwind in the warming hot springs
• Watch the Strokkur geyser erupt on the Golden Circle route
• Join a glacier snowmobiling or hiking tour
• See icebergs drift out to sea at Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon
• Spot snow-capped mountains in the distance
• Go whale watching off the coast of North Iceland
• Walk between the tectonic plates in Þingvellir National Park
• Dive into culture at Reykjavík’s museums and galleries

For even more ideas, see this guide to Iceland winter must-sees and must-dos .

What’s the weather like in Iceland in Northern Lights season?

In Iceland in winter, you can expect to see snow and ice on the mountaintops and on the ground. You’ll also feel a wintry wind, so make sure to wrap up warm!

Temperatures are low too, but not as low as you might expect. In December in Reykjavík for example, the average is around 1°C (34°F). It’ll be a few degrees colder in the countryside though.

The weather in Iceland turns on a dime. So don’t worry if the sky is looking overcast, it probably won’t be long until it clears up.

On these chilly winter nights, it’s lovely to stew in the Blue Lagoon or a local ‘hot pot’ (hot tub) after a day’s exploring. There are also plenty of natural hot springs if you’re after a wilder experience.

What’s included with your Iceland Northern Lights trips?

We offer a wide range of Northern Lights tours in Iceland. With all of our trips, you get:

• Accommodation
• Local transport
• Detailed itinerary

What’s more, all of the bus tour packages on this page include a Northern Lights excursion, with the chance to go out again if you don’t spot the Aurora.

Some of these packages also include activities such as ice caving or lava caving . Use the filters above to find these adventure-packed trips.

How do I book my trip with Iceland Tours?

Start by exploring the trips above. There are plenty of different ways to travel, including self-drive tours , multi-day tours from Reykjavík , guided group tours , and private tours .

On a self-drive trip, you can set your own pace and stop as little or as often as you like. This means you have the freedom to spend hours chasing down the Northern Lights if you want to.

On a multi-day trip, you’ll be joining different bus tours from Reykjavík each day. This includes a Northern Lights excursion on one evening. And you get the chance to go out again if you don’t catch the lights.

On a privately guided trip, your driver-guide will take you around all the main attractions. This also means you’ll get to chase the Northern Lights in a lesser-visited spot and get tips from a local pro!

Not sure how long your trip should be? Check out this guide to how many days you need in Iceland in winter .

Can I customize my Northern Lights trip?

Absolutely! With Iceland Tours, it’s easy for you to choose your preferred rental car (self-drive trips only) and accommodation level.

You can also extend your Iceland Aurora tour with extra nights before or after. You can add excursions on these days to see even more of Iceland’s incredible wintry landscapes, or simply chill in town. And you can make all of these changes yourself at checkout.

If you want to customize your trip further, you can get in touch with us and we’ll be happy to help. Please note a customization fee applies in this case, see our terms and conditions for details.

When should I book my vacation?

It’s good to book your Iceland Northern Lights vacation a few months in advance. That way, you have plenty of time to get ready. This also means you can secure your trip with a low deposit of just 5%.

We accept bookings up to a week before your planned start date. If you book with less than 30 days’ notice though, you would need to pay the full trip price when you book.

Booking ahead is also a good idea to ensure there is good availability for your planned travel dates. Places can be limited, especially for Christmas and New Year’s tours , so don’t delay!

What should I pack for my Northern Lights trip?

Make sure you stay warm and comfortable in Iceland’s wintry weather by taking these things with you:

• Sturdy walking boots
• Warm winter coat
• Cozy thermal layers, such as sweaters and fleeces
• Waterproof trousers
• Wooly scarf, hat, and gloves
• Sunglasses (for low winter sun)
• Moisturizer and lip balm
• Swimming gear

The humidity in Iceland is low all year round, but especially in winter. Moisturizer will help keep your skin soft and comfortable.

It’s a good idea to throw in a pair of sunglasses, particularly if you’re driving. The winter sun tends to stay fairly close to the horizon.

Find out more about what to pack for Iceland in wintertime .

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About Iceland

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The extreme dark of the Icelandic winter has a few perks. Between September and April, the people in Iceland are treated to a magnificent natural display: the phenomenon of aurora borealis, or what we commonly call the Northern Lights.

The Aurora Borealis takes its name from the Roman goddess of dawn, Aurora, and the Greek word for the north wind, Boreas. From September to April, Iceland is a hotspot for this magnificent light show.

Iceland is one of the best places in the world to experience the Northern Lights.

On clear winter nights, sightseeing trips are organized around this spectacular—though fickle—natural phenomenon. The ideal location for sightings varies and excursion leaders are skilled in "hunting" the lights, finding locations where conditions are best for seeing them on any given night.

There are no guarantees that you will see the Northern Lights during your stay, but in most cases, sightings are greatly improved outside populated areas, especially away from the light pollution of the capital. A number of hotels in the countryside offer a special Northern Lights wake-up service. 

You need dark, clear skies and sightings are greatly improved outside populated areas

HOW TO SPOT THE NORTHERN LIGHTS - PATIENCE IS THE KEY

First things first: You need darkness and clear skies, or at least openings in the cloud cover, preferably towards North. If the weather cooperates, you are already halfway there. You can always check weather conditions, cloud coverage and Aurora activity on the  Icelandic Met Office Website  and also on the website  Auroraforecast.is

If clouds are in your favor, the second criterion is solar wind activity above normal. The northern lights can appear any time of the day or night, all year round. However, the activity is usually strongest around midnight and a few hours before and after.

When the activity is beginning, usually a green arc appears towards the north. The best guide for orientation on a starry night is the Polar star that shines in the true north direction from the Earth. The best way to find the Polar star is to find the constellation Ursa Major or Big Bear, which points to the Polar star. If you see the green arc, you have a good chance of seeing them move. Keep in mind that hunting for the northern lights sometimes takes a lot of patience, but those who wait are often greatly rewarded.

HOW TO TAKE A PHOTO OF THE NORTHERN LIGHTS

As far as equipment goes, the most important thing you can bring is a tripod and a cable release to avoid the dreaded shaken-photo syndrome. If you don't have a cable release, set your camera's self-timer to two or ten seconds' shutter delay, if available.

There is no single setting for your camera that ensures great captures, but if you have manual options, you are probably best served with experimenting with various combinations of ISO, aperture, and exposure settings. As a rule of thumb, ISO settings between 800 and 3200, aperture between f/2.8 and f/5.6, and shutter speed at between 15 seconds and 30 seconds have proven effective.

The Northern Lights are a spectacular sight

Different combinations may give very different results. Higher ISO settings will allow you to capture faster exposures but may also result in grainier images, for example. Note that shutter speeds of above 15 seconds will result in slight star movement. Wider angle lenses are usually more versatile in low-light settings, but longer lenses give you different options for compositions. Make sure that you remove all lens filters, as they may distort images. You will probably get the best results with manual settings for infinite focal length.

How to take a photo of the Northern lights with your smartphone

Thankfully, you don't need a high-end full-frame camera and expensive wide-angled lenses with 1.2 aperture—although those are excellent choices. Advancements in smartphone technology now allow us to capture the Northern Lights and other low-light scenes effectively. The settings are relatively easy, and the results can be stunning. Experiment and practice your setup before you get out in the field! The more you practice, the better (and faster) you'll get. Before heading out, familiarize yourself with your device's settings and practice; tweaking settings with cold fingers is less fun. Learn all about how to take a photo of the Northern Lights with a smartphone

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS IN ICELAND?

The best time to see the Northern Lights is during the winter, between September and April, when dark and long nights have taken over from the bright summernights in Iceland. The Northern lights are said to be most active around the equinoxes in September and March, but the chances also improve mid winter by bringing more darkness - it simply gives you a larger window each day to witness them.

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Aurora Tourism in Iceland: You Can Seek, but You May Not Find

The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights — especially this year, which is a peak time for solar activity. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found.

In Reykjavík, Iceland, aurora borealis tourism is a booming business. Hopeful tourists board buses to head out into the night in search of the northern lights. Credit... Sigga Ella for The New York Times

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By Amelia Nierenberg

Amelia Nierenberg spent four nights searching for the northern lights in Iceland.

• March 25, 2024

From the outside, it may seem like the northern lights dance across Iceland’s skies each night. On Icelandair ads, planes fly across shimmering curtains in the sky. On social media, travelers gaze at the green bands above them . The lights are even on some recycling bins in Reykjavík, the capital: “Keep Iceland Clean.”

In the past decade or so, an aurora borealis industrial complex has boomed in Iceland. Many rent a car and go out on their own, but there are northern lights big bus tours and northern lights minibus tours and northern lights Super Jeep tours . There are private guides and boat cruises . There’s an observatory base camp . There’s even a museum .

But the lights can be elusive.

“Tourists sometimes expect, like, ‘At what time do you turn them on?’” said Björn Saevar Einarsson, a forecaster at Iceland’s meteorological office , chuckling. “Like we have a switch in the back room.”

This year, the letdowns are especially intense.

The northern lights, which are also called the aurora borealis, are most visible when there are solar flares, which are big eruptions on the sun that send charged particles toward Earth. This year, the sun is approaching the peak of its 11-year cycle of activity , which some assume means that the displays could peak, too.

But the enhanced solar activity doesn’t necessarily mean the northern lights will be brighter or more frequent, scientists wearily explain. Instead, they mostly mean that the lights can be seen farther south than usual: In recent months, they have been visible in Arizona , Missouri and southern England .

That doesn’t mean much for Iceland.

In fact, Icelanders and scientists said, this winter is nothing special. Sometimes, the lights are there. Sometimes, they aren’t. Just like always.

Hunting the lights

But nothing special, with the northern lights, is still very special. And so tourists keep coming .

Last month, I joined the fray. For four nights, I looked for telltale sky shimmers in and around Reykjavík.

I booked my tickets riding high — this was the best year yet, right? But as I learned more, and as my flight neared, my hopes ebbed. Scientists and tour leaders gently told me that the skies were cloudy and the solar activity seemed quiet.

“Just to let you know the forecast doesn’t look too good” Inga Dís Richter, the chief commercial officer at Icelandia , a tourism agency, wrote in an email two days before I planned to take a minibus trip with Reykjavik Excursions , one of its tour operators.

“But,” she added, “this can change.”

To find the lights, guides and travelers often rely on aurora forecasts, which overlay cloud cover and solar activity. They check them constantly, like a bride with an outdoor wedding in mid-April.

Some of the forecasts are free, like the aurora forecast run by Iceland’s meteorological office or Iceland at Night , which includes space weather. (Some are not — Aurora Forecast , which costs $12.99 a year, sends alerts.) Many people also turn to Facebook pages , where enthusiasts hungrily swap sightings.

Luck, though, is everything.

“There’s only one thing less predictable with the northern lights, and that’s the Arctic weather,” said John Mason, a global expert on the northern lights. “An aurora forecast is barely worth the paper that it’s written on.”

The guides work hard to explain the science, and set expectations. Most companies offer a free rebooking option if the lights do not show.

On my first night of aurora stalking, despite Ms. Richter’s warnings, I joined an expectant group on the Reykjavík Excursions minibus. For $88, I got a seat on the 19-person bus, which left the city’s central bus station at 9:30 p.m.

Over the next three to four hours, we would drive through the Icelandic night together. I’d either see something astonishing with these strangers — the sky, banded with light — or shiver with them shoulder-to-shoulder, awkward in the cold.

As we pulled onto the road, Gudjon Gunnarsson, the guide, set the mood early. “We are going hunting for the lights,” he said, emphasizing the word “hunting,” “similar to going out fishing in a lake.”

He drove for about 45 minutes, letting Reykjavík’s glow fade behind us. The city has about 140,000 people, and no real skyscrapers, so there’s limited light pollution. Although the northern lights can appear over the city, it’s best to see them in total darkness.

Then he paused and consulted with another guide.

“It is too cloudy here,” he told his flock. “So we will keep driving.”

But as we kept driving, clouds turned to a dense fog, so thick that the moon all but disappeared.

Mr. Gunnarsson turned off the main highway about an hour after we left Reykjavík. He parked in a parking lot. Or maybe it was a side street? The darkness was so deep that I could only make out the moonlight on the ocean, and only then after my eyes adjusted.

We disembarked and stood dutifully beside him, staring up at the sky. Then, one woman pointed toward Reykjavík. Were those the lights? (No. That was light pollution.)

Christof Reinhard, 65, who owns a medical laser company and was visiting with his family from Paris, mused that our search was a little bit like a safari. Sure, the desert is amazing, but it’s much better with lions. Or, maybe, was this more like a whale watch?

“Instead of a boat,” he said, “you have a bus.”

Mr. Gunnarsson watched the group stomp their feet and bend into the wind. Fifteen minutes. Then, half an hour. The clouds hung thick above. “There’s nothing happening here, as you can see,” he finally said to relieved chuckles. “It’s one of those nights where you just have to give up.”

Tourists can get mad, Mr. Gunnarsson and other guides said. It’s rare, but it does happen.

“It’s the trip that has our worst reviews,” said Eric Larimer, the digital marketing manager for Gray Line Iceland , a day tour and airport transport company.

A wake-up call for the aurora

For some, the joy is in the search, even if there is no find. A few focus on astronomy, often opting to stay at Hotel Rangá , which is just off the main ring road (Route 1) near Iceland’s south coast.

The hotel looks unassuming — low-slung and wooden — but it’s one of the most famous in Iceland. (The Kardashians stayed there . So did the Real Housewives of Orange County .) A standard room costs more than $300, depending on the season.

But Rangá doesn’t just cater to celebrities. It also draws astronomy buffs, enticed by its “aurora wake-up call” service and its observatory, which has state-of-the-art telescopes.

“One thing is to sell them,” said Fridrik Pálsson, the hotel’s owner, speaking of the northern lights. “Another thing is to deliver them.”

About 20 years ago, before the northern lights industry took off, he delegated the night security guard to monitor the sky. The guard pokes his head out every few minutes to look for the telltale flicker. If he sees the lights, he alerts the guests.

The service aims to address one of the main issues with hunting for the northern lights: They are usually only visible on winter nights, when it is very cold, very windy and very late.

“To be a good northern lights observer, you need the constitution of an insomniac polar bear,” Dr. Mason said.

My room phone, alas, stayed silent. But I did dream about the lights — great Wonka colors swirling, strangely, behind the Chrysler Building.

Mr. Pálsson built the observatory, too. Even if the lights didn’t show up, he figured, the stars are still magnificent — and, for city dwellers, also rare. The hotel contracts astronomers to work the telescopes and explain the stars to guests.On my second night in Iceland, as twilight slipped below happy-hour skies, I crunched across the snow to the observatory with Saevar Helgi Bragason, an Icelandic science communicator who leads the astronomy program.

He bent into a toddler-size telescope, focusing it on the moon’s craters. They looked clearer than the hotel, just a short walk away. It was too early for the lights, he said. And that evening seemed too cloudy (on Earth) and too quiet (on the sun).

Mr. Bragason joked that the lights can get in his way — they create a mist over the stars he really wants to see. But tourists often come specifically to see them. And sometimes, he said, as they wait impatiently, they can miss the real wonder.

“You’re left with these beautiful skies above you,” he said. “Basically, literally, another universe opens up.”

Creating a lights season

Hotel Rangá was a pioneer in Iceland’s northern lights tourism industry: About two decades ago, people came to Iceland for the long summer days, and left as daylight slipped farther south.

“I found it rather stupid in the beginning,” admitted Mr. Pálsson, the owner of Rangá, speaking of northern lights tourism.

But spreading tourism throughout the year made sense. Partly, that was an environmental concern. The tourists would crowd the country’s extraordinary natural sites over just a few months. It was also economic. When the visitors left Iceland, tourism jobs would ebb with the sunlight.

So the northern lights, which are reliably visible from September to March, became the backbone of the country’s winter branding, said Sveinn Birkir Björnsson, the marketing and communications director at Business Iceland , which promotes the country.

“To be able to sell this product of cold and darkness, you have to have something to offer,” he said.

Now, even though June, July and August are the busiest months, tourism has evened out over the seasons. In 2023, there were about 1.1 million international visitors to Iceland during the aurora months, based on departures from Keflavík Airport, according to data from Iceland’s tourist board . From April to August, there were about 1.1 million, too.

About a decade earlier , when tourism overall to Iceland was lower, there were about 336,000 departures from the main airport in colder months, and about 446,000 in the spring and summer.

The winter travelers are drawn by the lights — and the hot springs, glaciers and icy waterfalls. It’s also cheaper than the summer season.

Some try to visit volcanoes , but the country recently warned tourists to avoid the lava flows — Iceland is living in an unusually active period of seismic activity . In January, lava flowed into a small town and last week a volcano erupted with just 40 minutes’ notice near the Blue Lagoon thermal springs, one of the country’s biggest attractions.

The final attempts

Near midnight on my last night, a Sunday, I drove to the Grótta Lighthouse , a popular spot on the outskirts of Reykjavík.

A few die-hard experts had warned me off — many tourists go there because it’s darker than most of Reykjavík, but then don’t think to turn off their headlights. It was also raining, greatly diminishing my chances of seeing the lights.

But I only had three hours before I had to leave to make my predawn flight. I felt a little desperate, a little dazed. I parked, and approached two people who were sitting in the rain on a wet wall, looking at the water in the darkness. I climbed over seaweed, and introduced myself. What would it mean to them, I asked, if the lights suddenly appeared?

“It’d be a little bit like the cherry on top,” said Catherine Norburn, 29, who was visiting from England.

She and her husband were set to fly out the next morning. They had not yet seen the lights.

“We don’t have high hopes,” said her husband, Reece Norburn, 29, “but it’s now or never.”

We didn’t see the lights. And I didn’t see them later, even after pulling off the highway halfway between Reykjavík and the airport at 3:30 a.m., half convinced by a shimmery cloud.

But I did spend more time looking up at the sky. And it’s a marvel.

In New York City, where I live, the night sky blooms orange-mauve. In Iceland, the nighttime darkness is just that — darkness. Clouds roll, breaking the deep blue. Stars actually shine. Northern lights or no northern lights, it was still cosmically beautiful.

Amelia Nierenberg writes the Asia Pacific Morning Briefing , a global newsletter. More about Amelia Nierenberg

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .

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Where to See the Northern Lights in Reykjavík

• April 11, 2024

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Seeing northern lights is a dream for many. In Iceland, the lights are usually green but sometimes purple, red and white. They can be seen on dark nights if their activity is high and the skies are clear. The northern lights have a schedule of their own and can be quite unpredictable. But if you’re in Iceland between September and April, remember to look up when the skies are clear. Like stars, you can best see these wonders away from the pollution and city lights; the darker the surroundings, the better. If you’re staying in Reykjavík, you don’t need to go far. Here are some of the best places to see the northern lights more clearly.

Grótta in west Reykjavík

Grótta is an area in the Seltjarnarnes peninsula, about six kilometres [3.7 mi] west of Hallgrímskirkja . As it’s the tip of a small peninsula, there are minimal city lights and pollution, giving you a higher chance of seeing the northern lights. Grótta’s lighthouse adds to its picturesque coast, creating a tranquil experience as you gaze at the lights.

You can take bus route 11 from Reykjavík city centre and get off at Hofgarðar. It is a 1.3 km [0.8 mi] walk from the bus stop to the vantage point.  You can also travel by car , bicycle, ride-share , scooter, or on foot.

Grandi harbour district

This area of Reykjavík is about two kilometres [1.24 mi] from the city centre. This neighbourhood has been growing in recent years, and you will now find various boutiques, restaurants and museums in the Grandi area. Due to its location on the waterfront, it is an excellent viewing point away from the city lights. You can get there by foot, car, bicycle or scooter, or take bus route 14 to Grandi bus stop. The best vantage point is on the northern tip, so walk up Eyjaslóð street along the water.

Perlan sightseeing platform

Perlan museum is in Reykjavík, just two kilometres [1.24 mi] south of the city centre. A large sightseeing platform wraps around the glass dome, where you have a 360° panoramic view of Reykjavík and beyond, which offers a great, unobstructed vantage point to see the Aurora.

To get to Perlan by bus, you can take bus routes 13 or 18. You can also travel by foot, ride-share, bicycle, or scooter. You can buy tickets to the sightseeing platform at Perlan’s reception for ISK 2,990 [$22, €20]. The observation deck is open until 10 PM, giving you ample time to observe the lights.

See the Aurora from a yacht

The Northern Lights Yacht Cruise will give you incredible views and the ability to see the Aurora more clearly. The two-hour cruise leaves from the old harbour in Reykjavík at 10 PM and is for those aged seven and older. As of 2024, the price is ISK 14,700 [$107, €99] per person, including blankets, Wi-Fi and a guide.

For an even better vantage point, there are more northern lights excursions , many of which depart Reykjavík city centre. You can also rent a car and chase the Aurora on your own.

If you are not fortunate enough to catch the northern lights while in Iceland, you have other options. You can opt for a virtual experience by going to Perlan and experiencing them in the planetarium or to the Aurora Northern Lights Center in the Grandi harbour area, where you can admire the lights through VR goggles.

To keep track of the best times to see the northern lights in Iceland, using apps such as My Aurora Forecast & Alerts can better your plans. You can also visit the Icelandic Met Office’s website , where you can see the Aurora forecast. Note that on their map, the white areas indicate clear skies and a higher chance of seeing them. You will find their activity level in the upper right corner.

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17 Best Places To See the Northern Lights

Posted: February 8, 2024 | Last updated: February 8, 2024

One of the most enchanting natural phenomena in the Northern Hemisphere is the Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis. On the proper night, with perfect weather conditions and peak solar activity, you can see the stunning lights that paint the night sky. Here are some of the best places to view the Northern Lights. 

1. Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik offers so much to see and explore, like geothermal pools, volcanic tours, and excellent culture, but visitors should also check out the Northern Lights that appear between September and April. Just a short journey to Hofdabrekka, near Vik in southern Iceland , Aurora Borealis enthusiasts can soak up this wondrous site.

Travel writer Ashlee Fechino shares, “I saw the Northern Lights in September while flying into Reykjavik. It was spectacular and I will remember it for the rest of my life.”

2. Abisko National Park, Sweden

One of the very best places to see the Northern Lights in Sweden is in Abisko National Park. Located in the very north of Sweden, along the Norwegian Sea, visitors can watch in wonder while these beautiful lights dance and fill the winter night sky.

3. Westfjords, Iceland

Long hours in Westfjords and North Iceland make them ideal locations to see the Northern Lights. As a popular viewing destination, there are many tours you can join throughout the area. Plan your trip to Iceland anywhere from September through April for the best chance of spotting the Lights. 

4. Lower and Upper Peninsula, Michigan, U.S.

Find a spot along the Great Lakes of Michigan for the best viewing, preferably somewhere dark without ambient light. The best time to see the Aurora Borealis in Michigan is April, October, and November–though the lights tend to flare throughout the winter into spring.

5. Yellowknife, Canada

About 250 miles south of the Arctic Circle, Yellowknife is part of Canada’s northwest territories. Yellowknife is also the Northern Lights Capital of the North American continent, making it a great destination. Visitors may start to see the lights anywhere from September through the end of March. 

6. Tromso, Norway

Tromso has darkness and good weather that’s conducive to seeing the lights. Book your trip in late January or early February to glimpse the Northern Lights. You can even see them from the cable car on Storsteinen Mountain. 

7. Lapland, Finland

Native Sami people of Finnish Lapland believe the lights occur because of fire foxes running so fast across the sky that their tails brush against the mountains and create sparks in the sky. With an average of 200 nights per year of Aurora Borealis (which means arctic dawn) from September to March, the best time to catch the light show is right before midnight. 

8. Oymyakon, Siberia

The story goes that God looked down on what he created and dropped diamonds that fell across the Yakutia region, which are the Northern Lights often seen in Siberia. Oymyakon is a remote location, but the trip and time spent with locals in their homes (there are no hotels in the area) will make the journey worth it. 

9. Fairbanks, Alaska, U.S.

Fairbanks is a popular spot for tourists to stop on their trip to Alaska, with the upside of possibly seeing the Northern Lights during their stay. Many local hotels also offer complimentary wake-up calls to let you know when the lights are out. Talk about full service!

10. Ilulissat, Greenland

Inuit people of Greenland hold to their belief that the lights were spirits of the dead playing games in the sky with–get this–a walrus skull. Most of the country is uninhabited, which makes it a great place to see the lights without city light pollution. Ilulissat is one of the most popular areas in Greenland for viewing during the autumn months. 

11. Churchill, Canada

Rumor has it that Churchill in Manitoba boasts a whopping 300 nights of visibility of the Northern Lights. You’ll have a good chance of seeing the lights for most of the year. However, visitors should plan their trip to northwestern Canada from January to March for the best time for viewing. 

12. Isle of Skye, Scotland

In Scotland, the Northern Lights are known by locals as the “merry dancers,” thought to be fallen angels and warriors. Autumn and winter see a decrease in visitors, making it the perfect time to travel to one of the most iconic destinations in the country to view the Northern Lights. 

13. Kangerlussuaq, Greenland

Another ideal location in Greenland–one of the best in the world–is in the small village of Kangerlussuaq. With less than 1,000 people with limited artificial lights and clear skies, you can experience the Aurora Borealis from October through April. 

14. Svalbard, Norway

Adventure seekers get the most out of their trip to Svalbard. Aside from joining a tour to see the Northern Lights, you can also go on a cruise or join a dog-sledding and hiking trip to make the experience even better. It’s best to travel between October and February, during the darkest months, for the best viewing. 

15. Shetland Islands, Scotland

As the northernmost area of Scotland, the Shetland Islands puts you closest to the Arctic Circle, meaning you’ll have a better chance of viewing the Aurora Borealis here. This relatively remote destination offers excellent viewing of the lights from the end of autumn through early spring. 

16. Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, Iceland

If you’re visiting south Iceland, you can still view the Northern Lights by traveling to Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. A drive from a neighboring village, Vik, will take you to the lagoon, or you can find a nearby black sand beach to enjoy the show. 

17. Whitehorse, Canada

The Yukon capital, Whitehorse, is a reasonably accessible area to see the Northern Lights, with lodging and tours for the whole family to enjoy. Winter months will be the best time to spend in Whitehorse. It’s also when many tours are in operation. 

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Where to See Your Next Eclipse, From Iceland to Australia

By Maya Silver

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The totality of an eclipse is never long enough. My first total solar eclipse experience in 2017 made for the shortest two minutes of my life: the sun transforming into a blazing diamond ring, the beautiful delirium of darkness, that perfect circle in the sky. Before I knew it, the eclipse was over—and my friends and I were plotting how we could catch our next.

During my second total eclipse in Ohio, I savored nearly double that time—four minutes of totality. Those extra moments gave me time to tune into the full sensory experience. As birds slowed their songs, crickets filled the false twilight with their chirping. All the people around me fell silent amid the cool, still air, and the corona of the sun radiated and wisped above. It wasn’t long after those beautiful four minutes ended that I began scheming, again, about my next opportunity to relive the cosmic experience. Now, I’ve fully embraced my identity as an umbraphile —literally, a “shadow lover,” but better known as someone who chases total solar eclipses.

For umbraphiles like myself based in the United States, the next total solar eclipse to hit the US is in 2033—although it will only grace the western half of Alaska , along with Russia . In 2044, another total solar eclipse will swoop across Canada into Montana and the Dakotas . The next “Great American Eclipse” to cut across a wide swath of the nation won’t arrive until 2045 , though that one will stretch all the way from Northern California to Florida , across Utah , Colorado , Georgia , and many more states.

If you can’t bear to wait more than two decades for that stunning event, the good news is that many more eclipses will occur before then—you just have to go abroad to catch them. Whether you saw the 2024 total solar eclipse and are eager to plan your next trip to the path of totality, or you missed it and want to discover what all the hype is about, consider this your guide to seeing a total solar eclipse in the next four years.

In 2026, travelers to Iceland will have the chance to catch the solar eclipse and northern lights on one trip.

August 12, 2026: The Arctic, Iceland, and Spain

Your earliest chance to catch another total solar eclipse is August 12, 2026 , when the path of totality will curve northeast across the Arctic Ocean and south through remote eastern Greenland , terminating in the Balearic Sea just east of Mallorca . While there are several worthy destinations for umbraphiles during the 2026 eclipse, the totality experience will be relatively short, lasting only 1-2 minutes, depending on where you are within the path.

One spot to add to your eclipse planning list is Western Iceland , where you may also be able to catch Northern Lights on your trip to enhance the cosmic experience. The capital of Reykjavik sits on the edge of totality, making it a fine and accessible viewing destination. The downside? Totality will only last a minute there. To extend the experience, head about three hours west by car. Snæfellsjökull National Park —a seaside park named for a volcano and glacier—will experience 2 minutes and 10 seconds of totality. Stay in the nearby hamlet of Búðir, about 30 minutes away. Or head to the village of Patreksfjordur in the Westfjords, about a five-hour drive from Reykjavik for a similarly longer totality.

If a more Mediterranean eclipse experience appeals, the spot to be is Spain. The path of totality will also clip northeastern Portugal . In northern Spain, the medieval cities of Oviedo (1 minute and 49 seconds totality) or Burgo (1 minute and 44 seconds totality) are good places to watch, right in the center of the totality path. For a more urban experience, consider Zaragoza (1 minute and 24 seconds of totality) or seaside Valencia (1 minute totality).

Perhaps the most unique place to take in the 2026 eclipse in Spain is upon the island of Mallorca. Partying in Palma, reveling in secluded beaches, or overlooking the sea upon the island’s limestone cliffs would all make enviable ways to take in the 1 minute and 36 seconds of totality. With around 300 days of sunshine annually, Mallorca is also a safe bet for clear skies. If you prefer to leave the planning to the pros, consider a guided eclipse trip through a company like Sirius Travel , which is also offering an Iceland eclipse trip. Note that some other guided 2026 eclipse tours are already sold out , so don’t wait to reserve.

One of the most unusual places to witness an eclipse is aboard a cruise ship , and there are already several potential options available—after all, this eclipse is only a couple years out and plans are underway. Bundle up and hop aboard the Greenland Solar Eclipse cruise hosted by Albatros Expeditions . The 13-day itinerary includes a tour of fjords and glaciers, a visit to Nuuk, and of course, the 2-minute, 17-second totality experience (starting at $19,600 per person). Cunard is offering three solar eclipse cruise experiences : one through Norway and Iceland, and two more near Spain and the Mediterranean.

Luxor, Egypt, will see over six minutes of totality during the August 2027 eclipse.

August 2, 2027: Northern Africa and the Middle East

Just a year later, another eclipse will travel across Northern Africa and the western edge of the Middle East —this one with a prodigiously long totality time. The eclipse will cross over the southern tip of Spain and Gibraltar, which will enjoy 4 minutes and 28 seconds of totality.

Laura Kiniry

Blane Bachelor

Stacey Lastoe

Across Northern Africa, several cities make excellent viewing points. The beaches of Tangier , Morocco, will take in 4 minutes and 50 seconds totality. In Tunisia , the ancient oasis of Gafsa will clock over 5 minutes of totality.

For the longest totality time, consider Luxor, Egypt , which will see a stunning 6 minutes and 22 seconds of darkness, likely amid sunny skies. This is only about a minute shy of the known record for longest totality time : 7 minutes and 28 seconds, back in 743 B.C. Besides, could anything eclipse the mystical sight of a pyramid than a literal eclipse darkening the skies above the Ancient Egyptian monuments?

Cruises and guided tours for the 2027 eclipse are also already on offer. Take a cruise through the Mediterranean with Eclipse Tours and witness totality at sea (starting at $4,999), or tour Morocco and enjoy the eclipse from a beach with Astro Tours (price unlisted).

Head to New Zealand's Otago Peninsula in 2028 to experience three minutes of totality.

July 22, 2028: Australia and New Zealand

If you can wait four years, consider an eclipse trip to Oceania . This eclipse will traverse central Australia and southern New Zealand , and there are many incredible spots to consider within the path for your viewing experience, whether you prefer to dance in the darkness or be immersed in the wild.

In Australia, Sydney is smack dab in the middle of the 2028 path , with 3 minutes and 49 seconds of totality. While no festivals or events are in the works yet, have no doubt Australia will rise to the occasion. For a more nature-based experience, consider the ancient rock formations and trails of Mirima National Park ; stay in the nearby town of Kununurra. This area will enjoy just under three minutes of totality. Of course, an Australia eclipse-themed cruise already awaits, too, though the eclipse itself is to be viewed on land (starting at $14,500).

In New Zealand, enjoy nearly three minutes of totality include Queenstown and Dunedin. Take in the New Zealand eclipse from the stunning shores of Lake Wakatipu of Queenstown, where you can chase the rush of an eclipse with one of the world’s highest bungee jumps . Amid the Scottish-meets-Maori heritage of Dunedin, bookend the eclipse with a visit to the Larnach Castle or the Otago Peninsula and its penguins.

Tips for planning an eclipse trip around the world

You’re not the only traveler drawn to the elusive experience of a total eclipse—which is why places in the path of totality tend to experience a massive spike in tourism . Lodging books early, prices surge, rental cars run out, and those who fail to plan in advance are often left high and dry—or forced to spend a small fortune.

My advice on preparing for an eclipse trip in the US applies doubly when it comes to an international voyage to the path of totality. Here are a few key pointers before you plan your trip, whether to the Arctic, Spain, Egypt, or Australia:

It’s never too early to book: Some tours are already sold out, while hotel reservations are sure to go fast. Make your reservations as soon as you can, especially for the 2026 eclipse—you can always cancel later if your trip falls through. This applies to rental cars and flights as well.

Give yourself a buffer around the eclipse: Don’t plan to show up the day before the eclipse or day of, nor should you plan to depart the day of or day after. Adding some wiggle room will allow you to maximize the serenity of the experience, rather than sabotage it with the chaos of eclipse travel.

Get to your viewing spot at least a few hours in advance: This way your plans won’t be foiled by any unexpected traffic, you can find the perfect perch, and you’ll have time to set up any camera tripods or telescopes.

Hold on to your eclipse glasses—or buy them early: Don’t plan to pick up a pair at your destination. And make sure they’re ISO certified .

Finally, turn your eclipse travels into a longer trip of about a week or two. Look into local observatories or stargazing tours to up the astronomical ante. A few months ahead, research eclipse festivals, events, and viewing parties, if that’s of interest. Meet some fellow travelers who you might be interested in viewing with. Then, one to six minutes of totality will be just the pinnacle of your celestially inspired trip, rather than the entirety of it.

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• Space Travel + Astronomy

The Northern Lights Have a Southern Hemisphere Counterpart That Is Harder to See — What to Know

We've got the answers to all your questions about the aurora australis.

What are the southern lights?

Are the northern lights and southern lights different, when is the best time to see the southern lights, how can i increase my chances of seeing the southern lights, can i see the southern lights on an antarctica cruise, best places to see the southern lights.

Skyimages/Getty Images

I first glimpsed the northern lights on a red-eye flight across the Atlantic. Just a few pale wisps in the night sky were enough to get me hooked on the celestial phenomenon, and my aurora chasing has since brought me to Greenland, Iceland, and Churchill, Canada. Now, my sights are set on their even more elusive counterpart: the southern lights, or aurora australis. 

Here’s everything you need to know about the southern lights, including when and where to see them. 

Meet the Expert

Jonathan Belles is a meteorologist at The Weather Channel and weather.com . 

Dr. Jason Steffen is an associate professor of physics at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. 

The southern lights are the Southern Hemisphere’s version of the northern lights — that is, they're both the aurora. "The aurora is a visual representation of the Earth’s magnetic field protecting us from the sun’s disruptive bursts of energy," Jonathan Belles, meteorologist at The Weather Channel and Weather.com, tells Travel + Leisure . When energized particles from the sun slam into the Earth's magnetic field, they're redirected toward the poles, and the particles glow.

Future Publishing/Getty Images

The only major difference between the northern and southern lights is the hemisphere in which they occur. Otherwise, they're the same phenomenon. They even tend to occur in sync. "Usually, both auroras will brighten when there is a lot of solar activity," Dr. Jason Steffen, associate professor of physics at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, tells T+L. "The particles will be trapped by the magnetic field and will be concentrated simultaneously at both magnetic poles." 

But there's always a chance for variation. "They can occur simultaneously when a solar storm occurs, but often their impacts will be asymmetric. In other words, aurora may be more prevalent in one hemisphere versus the other depending on how the burst of energy reaches the Earth and from what direction," says Belles. 

As with the northern lights , the best time to see the southern lights is whenever the sky is dark. Because the aurora occurs at high latitudes — that is, close to the poles — you may not get much darkness, if any at all, during the summer. So the best time of year to see the southern lights is from roughly March through September, the Southern Hemisphere’s autumn through spring. (The Northern Hemisphere’s aurora season lasts from around September through March.)

On a larger time scale, this year is one of the best years to see the aurora. We’re approaching solar maximum in the solar cycle, which could mean brighter and more frequent auroras.  "We’re currently in the most active part of an 11-year solar cycle, when bursts from the sun are most common," says Belles. But that's not to say the southern lights will be no-shows after that — the aurora can (and does) happen frequently, though the light show is often dimmer than the dazzling displays you might be picturing. For the breathtaking dancing ribbons, you might have to wait for strong solar storms. (In case you're wondering, it takes about three days for the sun's aurora-causing emissions to reach the Earth, so you'll have a tiny bit of a heads-up that a good show might be brewing.)

Cavan Images / Per-Andre Hoffmann/Getty Images

There's one simple thing you can do to increase your chances of seeing the southern lights — spend as much time near the magnetic south pole as possible, particularly during the dark months. (Remember, Southern Hemisphere winter occurs in June, July, and August.) Of course, that's much easier said than done. "It is more difficult to see the southern lights only in that there is less land in the Southern Hemisphere to see it from," says Belles.

It's not likely — I've cruised to Antarctica five times, and I've never seen the southern lights from my ships. There are two main reasons why.

First, the Antarctic cruise season runs through the austral summer, when Antarctica gets up to 24 hours of daylight. If the sky is bright, you won't be able to see the aurora. And second, most cruises visit the Antarctic Peninsula, where the aurora doesn't often appear overhead. 

The "auroral oval," or the region of the Earth in which you're most likely to see the aurora, is farther south than most visited parts of the Antarctic Peninsula. "The magnetic field is tilted slightly, so the auroras align with the magnetic poles instead of the geographic poles," says Steffen. And the south magnetic pole is closer to the other side of the continent. So even if you're visiting Antarctica in November or March, when you do get some darkness each night, the southern lights might only appear faintly and far in the distance, not overhead.

They’re not easy to spot, but these are three of the best places to see the southern lights.

South Island, New Zealand

The farther south you go in New Zealand, the better your chances of seeing the southern lights. An ideal location would have unobstructed views towards the south, since the southern lights will appear low on the horizon rather than overhead. For your best chances, I'd recommend taking the ferry from Bluff to Stewart Island, which is off the southern tip of the South Island. But it is possible to see the southern lights from popular destinations like Dunedin and Queenstown, too — just make sure you get away from city lights to reduce light pollution. 

Chasing Light/James Stone/Getty Images

Tasmania, Australia

Tasmania is another prime destination for southern lights viewing. As in New Zealand, the farther south you go, the better your odds. Some of the most popular viewpoints include Goat Bluff, Carlton Beach, and Tinderbox, all of which are fairly close to Hobart, though far enough from substantial light pollution. You could also try the summit of kunanyi / Mount Wellington, but beware the glare of city lights. For more darkness, you'll want to head to more remote destinations, such as Southwest National Park, the state's largest expanse of wilderness.

I know, I know — I just told you that it's difficult to see the southern lights from an Antarctica cruise. And that's true. But there are some places in Antarctica that do see the southern lights frequently, and the most accessible to travelers is the Ross Sea. Some Antarctica cruises travel to this remote destination, and if you happen to be on one at the right time of year (when the skies get dark at night, from autumn to spring), you might be able to see the southern lights. Alternatively, you could try to get a job at McMurdo Station, the main base of the U.S. Antarctic Program. If you spend the winter there, you're almost guaranteed to see the southern lights.

The Northern Lights are expected to be spectacular. Here's where to get a good view.

Megan Swift is a TribLive reporter covering trending news in Western Pennsylvania. A Murrysville native, she joined the Trib full time in 2023 after serving as editor-in-chief of The Daily Collegian at Penn State. She previously worked as a Jim Borden Scholarship intern at the Trib for three summers. She can be reached at [email protected].

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The northern lights could be visible in several states this week. Here's where you might see them.

By Caitlin O'Kane

July 7, 2023 / 2:54 PM EDT / CBS News

The aurora borealis, also known as the northern lights, could be visible in several states this week. Original forecasts from the University of Alaska's Geophysical Institute showed 17 states could see the northern lights between July 12 to 13. Now, the forecast has changed and only a handful of states are expected to see the display, according to the institute.

The aurora borealis produces neon green waves in the night sky when electrons from space collide with atoms and molecules of the upper atmosphere of Earth, according to NASA. The result is similar to when electrons collide with neon gas to create bright lightbulbs. 

What states will be able to see the northern lights?

Last week, the University of Alaska's Geophysical Institute initially forecasted  activity would be high on July 13 with visibility originally expected in Alaska, Montana, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Oregon, Idaho, Wyoming, Nebraska, Indiana, Vermont and Maryland. The institute initially forecasted aurora activity would be high on July 12 as well, with visibility originally expected in Washington, Iowa, Illinois, Ohio and Massachusetts. 

But as of Tuesday, their forecast shows the activity status for both July 12 and 13 has been downgraded to "active" and the lights are only expected to be visible in five states; Alaska, South Dakota, Wisconsin, Michigan and Maine.

The auroras come from solar wind from the sun. Even when these winds are calm, there are auroras at some place on Earth, but they may be obstructed by clouds or sunlight, according to the institute.

The phenomenon is usually visible in Alaska, Canada, and Scandinavian countries like Greenland and Iceland during average activity. Late February to early April is usually the best time to view auroras in Alaska.

When activity increases, more U.S. states like North Dakota and Michigan have the chance to see the lights. The lights are even visible in the Southern Hemisphere in places such as New Zealand when activity is fairly strong.

CBS News has reached out to the institute for more information and is awaiting a response. 

Bryan Brasher, a project manager at NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center explained why the forecast had changed in the past few days. A particular coronal hole had previously shown elevated activity, so forecasters like those at NOAA, expected it to do so again, he said. 

Expecting the coronal hole to produce high activity, NOAA reflected that in its 27-day outlook for the northern lights. "As this particular coronal hole rotated back into view – meaning we could see and analyze it – it was clear that it had diminished and we adjusted our forecast accordingly," Brasher told CBS News via email.

The scale for measuring these geomagnetic storms is called "the G scale," ranging from a minor storm at G1 to an extreme storm at G5. The original forecast that garnered media attention was at a G2, but NOAA recently lowered the forecast to a G1 and then lowered it again below the G scale, Brasher said.

Brasher said a G3 or a G4 storm would be needed to see the Northern Lights from mid-latitude states. "We did - for example - have a G4 storm in late March and again in late April that caused the aurora to be visible as far south as Arizona and Oklahoma," he said. 

When is the best time to look for them?

The best time to see the lights is when the sky is clear and dark, according to the institute. They are more visible closest to the equinox, or the longest days of sunlight in the year occurring in the spring and fall. Auroras come from solar storms. 

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has an animated forecast of the lights' movement and says the best time to see them is within an hour or two of midnight, usually between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. local time.

NASA's Parker Solar Probe, which is on a mission to the sun,  recently gathered information on the solar storms that create the aurora borealis. Solar winds travel 93 million miles to Earth's atmosphere, where the bursts evolve into a "homogeneous, turbulent flow of roiling magnetic fields intertwined with charged particles that interact with Earth's own magnetic field and dump electrical energy into the upper atmosphere." 

This creates stunning aurora in the sky – but the lights can also wreak havoc on communications systems. In 1859, the  Carrington Event  – a strong solar eruption that made the auroras extremely bright and long-lasting – knocked out telegraph and electrical systems, according to the University of Chicago.

The sun's creation of powerful solar winds is on an 11-year cycle and the next peak in the activity is expected around 2025. Auroras will likely be easier to see at lower latitudes during this time, according to the institute. 

• Aurora Borealis
• Northern Lights

Caitlin O'Kane is a New York City journalist who works on the CBS News social media team as a senior manager of content and production. She writes about a variety of topics and produces "The Uplift," CBS News' streaming show that focuses on good news.

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