The mainland of Iceland sits just south of the Arctic Circle in the heart of the “Northern Lights belt”, making it an excellent bet if you’re hoping to see the Northern Lights. For many, catching the Aurora Borealis, a colourful show of natural dancing lights, is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. If you’re ready to tick the Northern Lights off your bucket list, Contiki has got you covered with one of our iconic Iceland trips.
And if you want to increase your chances of seeing this unique natural phenomenon while you’re in Iceland, be sure to head to any of the following locations for the best odds for experiencing the Northern Lights.
1. Snæfellsnes Peninsula
The Snæfellsnes Peninsula has everything: glaciers, beaches, and, you guessed it, the Northern Lights. A remote natural area located far from city lights, this is a great spot for all you Aurora chasers.
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2. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
If you’re looking for a truly magical place to see the Northern Lights, look no further than the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. Here you can view the aurora against the backdrop of gorgeous sparkling icebergs –– it’s really giving “Iceland”.
3. Thingvellir National Park
If you’re planning to drive the famous Golden Circle route, you’ll be passing through Thingvellir National Park. Super remote and dramatically beautiful, this is another great place to see the Northern Lights.
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4. Kirkjufell
If you live for the drama, Kirkjufell is one of the best –– and most dramatic –– places in Iceland to see the Northern Lights. The mountain creates a stark silhouette against the sky, making it the perfect backdrop for a breathtaking Aurora Borealis experience.
5. Vík í Mýrdal
A small village along the coast, Vík í Mýrdal is another charming place for watching the Northern Lights. This part of the country has vast, dark, wide open skies, making for ideal aurora viewing conditions.
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6. Golden Circle
The Golden Circle is Iceland’s classic tourist route for a reason. Not only does it pass through so many of the otherworldly landscapes the country is known for, but it also features multiple destinations that are ideal for seeing the Northern Lights.
7. Grótta Island Lighthouse
This spot is closer to Reykjavík but has greater light pollution than in more remote parts of Iceland, lessening your chances of seeing the Northern Lights. That said, if you have limited time and don’t want to stray too far from the city, Grótta Island Lighthouse is a great option.
Is Iceland the best place to see the Northern Lights?
Yes, Iceland is one of the best places on earth to see the Northern Lights, due to its location in the auroral oval. With little light pollution, long winter nights, and dramatic natural landscapes, if you visit during the right season and block out at least a couple of nights to increase your chances of catching the Northern Lights, odds are high that you will be able to see them.
What is the best time of year to see the Northern Lights in Iceland?
The best time of year for seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland is during the winter months, which run from mid-September through to early April. These months offer long stretches of darkness, which are the ideal conditions for catching the Aurora Borealis.
