When Is the Best Time to Travel to Iceland for the Northern Lights?
If you're headed to Iceland to witness the mesmerising aurora borealis, the best time to travel is between September and April.
But don't pack your bags just yet - there's more to this celestial spectacle than just picking the right month. At Skyhook, we know a thing or two about chasing the Northern Lights in Iceland, so we can help you plan the ultimate aurora-hunting adventure.
Let's discuss the options for each season to maximize your chances of witnessing this breathtaking phenomenon!
A Quick Look Into The Northern Lights
Before we discuss the when let's review the what.
The Northern Lights, or aurora borealis, are nature's own light show caused by charged particles from the sun colliding with atoms in Earth's atmosphere.
This results in curtains of green, pink, and sometimes even red or purple dancing across the night sky. To us, it's like Mother Nature decided to throw a disco party, and we're all invited!
The Northern Lights Cheat Sheet
Wondering when you can see the Northern Lights? Here's the lowdown:
Best months: September to April
Peak season: December to February
Want to plan a trip to Iceland by season? Here's when to catch the best view of the Northern Lights:
1. Winter: The Best Season for Northern Lights (December to February)
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Winter is the best time to travel to Iceland on a budget. On top of that, you've got long, dark nights that are perfect for aurora spotting, with 19-20 hours of darkness.
However, winter weather can be unpredictable. Temperatures hover between -2°C and 2°C (28°F to 36°F), and snowstorms are not uncommon.
But when the skies do clear up, they're often crystal clear, providing the perfect canvas for the Northern Lights.
Winter is prime time for Northern Lights tours. You can choose from a variety of options:
Guided Northern Lights hunt: Expert guides take you to the best spots based on weather conditions and aurora forecasts.
Northern Lights by boat: Sail away from city lights for an unobstructed sky view.
Combination ours: Mix your aurora hunting with other winter activities like ice caving or snowmobiling.
c) Things to Consider
Winter in Iceland can be challenging. Be prepared for icy roads, potential snowstorms, and very short daylight hours. However, the payoff can be incredible - not just for the Northern Lights but also for the winter wonderland scenery.
Pack plenty of warm layers, waterproof gear, and your sense of adventure.
2. Autumn: The Underdog Season (September to November)
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Autumn in Iceland is like a box of chocolates - you never know what you'll get.
Temperatures range from 37°F to 50°F (3°C to 10°C), and while you might encounter some rain, you'll also get to enjoy the stunning fall colours as a backdrop to your aurora hunting.
The nights start getting longer in September, giving you a decent window to view the Northern Lights without the extreme cold of winter.
Autumn is an excellent time for combining Northern Lights viewing with other Iceland vacation ideas:
Northern Lights and whale watching: Catch the tail end of whale watching season while hunting for auroras.
Autumn hiking under the lights: Experience the stunning fall foliage of Iceland during the day and chase the magical auroras at night.
City breaks: You can explore Reykjavik's culture and cuisine, then head out of town to hunt the aurora borealis.
c) Things to Consider
Autumn can be a sweet spot for many travellers. The weather is milder than winter, making outdoor activities more comfortable. However, be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions and bring waterproof gear.
The challenge in autumn is the shorter window of darkness compared to winter, so you might need to stay up a bit later for the best viewing opportunities.
3. Spring: The Season of Hope (March to April)
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Spring in Iceland is a time of renewal and hope - both for the landscape and aurora hunters!
Temperatures start to climb, ranging from 32°F to 45°F (0°C to 7°C). Days get longer, but you still have a good amount of darkness for Northern Lights viewing, especially in March.
The weather can be quite variable, with a mix of clear skies, rain, and even some late winter snow.
Spring offers some unique opportunities for Northern Lights viewing. Here are some Iceland trip ideas as you hunt for the lights:
Glacier lagoon aurora: Witness the Northern Lights reflecting off the icebergs in Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon.
Hot springs under the lights: Soak in a natural hot spring while watching for auroras overhead.
Spring photography tours: Capture the aurora alongside Iceland's waterfalls and budding spring landscape.
c) Things to Consider
Spring can be an excellent time for aurora hunting, especially if you do not like extreme cold. The longer days allow for more daytime activities, but you'll need to stay up later for the best chances of seeing the Northern Lights.
Be prepared for muddy conditions as the snow melts, and bring layers to accommodate the variable temperatures.
The Ísafjörður Bay
4. Summer: The Midnight Sun Challenge (May to August)
Iceland is the land of the Midnight Sun!
While this is great for round-the-clock sightseeing and the best time to hike in Iceland, it's not likely that you'll be able to view the Northern Lights. The sun barely sets in June and July, making aurora spotting nearly impossible.
Temperatures are at their warmest, ranging from 9°C to 14°C (48°F to 57°F), and the weather is generally milder, though rain is still common.
While summer isn't the season for Northern Lights, there's still plenty to do:
Midnight sun tours: Experience the surreal phenomenon of 24-hour daylight.
Summer festivals: Enjoy Iceland's vibrant cultural scene and outdoor festivals.
Highland adventures: Explore Iceland's rugged interior, only accessible in summer.
Kayak and wild camp along the Icelandic coast: Consider our three-day kayak and wild camping Iceland trip in Ísafjarðardjúp Bay for a unique adventure. You'll explore the coast, search for marine mammals and seabirds, enjoy dinner on a remote beach, and sleep on a peninsula surrounded by stunning wildlife, beautiful sunsets, colourful flora, and rich history.
Things to Consider
Summer is the easiest season for travelling in Iceland, with mild weather and long days. However, it's the most challenging (nearly impossible) to see the Northern Lights due to the lack of darkness.
If you must visit in summer and still want an aurora experience, consider visiting the Aurora Reykjavík Museum to learn about the phenomenon and see impressive footage.
Tips for Maximizing Your Northern Lights Chances
Here are some tips to increase your chances of seeing the aurora:
Check the aurora forecast: Websites like the Icelandic Met Office provide aurora forecasts based on solar activity and cloud cover.
Get away from light pollution: The darker your surroundings, the better your chances of seeing the lights. So, maybe head out of cities and towns for the best views.
Be patient: The Northern Lights can be fickle. Sometimes, you need to wait for hours; sometimes, they appear when you least expect them.
Stay flexible: Keep your schedule flexible to chase clear skies if needed.
Bring the right gear: Warm, waterproof clothing is essential. Don't forget a tripod and camera for those Instagram-worthy shots!
Consider a guided tour: Local experts know the best spots and can read weather patterns to maximize your chances.
Extend Your Stay: The longer you're in Iceland, the better your odds of catching a good aurora show.
Wrapping Up
While winter might be the prime time for the Northern Lights in Iceland, each season offers unique charm and challenges for aurora hunters.
Whether braving the winter chill, enjoying the autumn colours, or catching the last dark skies of spring, Iceland provides an unforgettable backdrop for nature's most incredible light show.
Remember, seeing the Northern Lights calls for a bit of luck, patience, and adventure. But isn't that what travel is all about?
We hope our guide helps you prepare for an epic season of Northern Lights hunting. Happy Aurora chasing!
