The mesmerising and otherworldly spectacle of the aurora borealis, also known as the Northern Lights, has captivated humanity for centuries. From volcanic plains and glacial lagoons to remote coastlines, Iceland offers an unforgettable backdrop for one of nature’s most spectacular phenomena.
Importance of Timing for Optimal Viewing
Seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland is a dream for travellers, but timing is key to catching this natural spectacle in its full glory. To maximize your chances, it’s essential to consider both the time of year and the specific weather conditions. First, the best time to visit Iceland for Northern Lights viewing is between September and March. During these months, the nights are longest, providing more opportunities to see the auroras. The peak of the season, from October to February, offers the darkest skies and most frequent auroral displays, though the unpredictable Icelandic weather can sometimes limit visibility.
However, it’s not just about the season. Clear skies are essential, as cloud cover can block the view, and solar activity plays a significant role in the intensity of the lights. For the best experience, aim to include visits to destinations with low light pollution, away from city lights, and check the aurora forecast for active solar activity. Timing the weather and the solar cycle right ensures that your Icelandic adventure culminates in the magical display of the Northern Lights, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Factors Influencing the Aurora Borealis'
Solar Activity and its Impact
One of the key factors influencing the intensity of the aurora borealis is solar activity. The sun goes through a natural 11-year cycle between solar maximum and solar minimum. During the solar maximum, there is an increased number of sunspots, which are areas on the sun’s surface with intense magnetic activity. This heightened solar activity often leads to more significant and frequent displays of the Northern Lights.
In addition to solar activity, the occurrence of geomagnetic storms plays a crucial role in the visibility and intensity of the aurora borealis. Geomagnetic storms are often caused by disturbances in the solar wind that interacts with the Earth’s magnetosphere. These storms can amplify the Northern Lights, making them more visible at lower latitudes than usual.
Seasonal Variations in Iceland
Iceland’s unique geography and proximity to the Arctic Circle result in dramatic seasonal variations that offer different experiences depending on the time of year. Each season brings its own charm and opportunities for exploration, making Iceland a year-round destination for travellers seeking both natural beauty and adventure.
Winter (December - February)
Spring (March - May)
Autumn (September - November)
Weather Conditions affecting Visibility
Best Time to Visit for Northern Lights
Ideal months and Seasons
The ideal time to experience the Northern Lights in Iceland is during the winter months, from September to April, when the nights are longest and darkest. Aurora offers expeditions throughout these peak months, so travellers can experience the Northern Lights unique beauty. With up to 20 hours of darkness each day, travellers are provided with optimal conditions for the auroras. sightings are possible throughout the winter season, the summer months are not suitable due to the brief, light nights.
Specific Time of Night for Enhanced Viewing
Choosing the right locations in Iceland
The Golden Circle
The Golden Circle is a popular tourist route that includes three of Iceland’s most iconic sites: Þingvellir National Park, Geysir Hot Springs, and the Gullfoss Waterfall. The Golden Circle boasts a variety of natural wonders which are accessible with our expedition cruises. Aurora’s Arctic Golden Autumn & Northern Lights expedition allow unique exposure to Iceland’s natural wonders.
Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss Waterfalls
Reykjavík
Iceland’s capital city, Reykjavík, is full of vibrant culture, art, and history. Explore landmarks like the striking Hallgrímskirkja Church, wander through charming streets, or enjoy the city’s cafes and restaurants. It’s also the gateway to many of Iceland’s tours, adventures and Aurora expeditions departures.
Thingvellir National Park
Northern Lights Tours and Excursions
Guided Tours available
Booking with Aurora ensures you have the best chance of seeing Iceland’s Northern Lights in comfort, safety, and style. Whether you’re after a full adventure or a more intimate experience, a guided tour can turn your aurora chase into an unforgettable journey. Aurora aims to enhance travellers experience with access to local guides. Guides are experts in tracking the Northern Lights, using up-to-date forecasts to ensure you’re in the right place at the right time.
Northern Lights tours include photography assistance where guides often help with camera settings, ensuring you capture the best shots of the aurora. Tours may provide photography equipment rentals for those who don’t have their own gear. Local guides often share fascinating facts about the science and mythology behind the Northern Lights, enhancing your overall experience and understanding of this magical natural phenomenon.
Benefits of Joining an Organized Excursion
Planning your own Northern Lights hunt can be time-consuming and uncertain. With an organized excursion, everything is taken care of, from transportation to finding the perfect viewing spots. Travellers can simply relax and focus on enjoying the experience. Local guides are experts in tracking the Northern Lights, using real-time data to ensure you’re at the best location when the aurora appears. Their knowledge of the weather and local terrain maximizes your chances of witnessing this incredible natural display.
Along with sharing interesting information about Iceland’s culture, geology, and the science underlying the aurora, guides also know where to look for the lights. Your experience is deepened and made even more memorable by this educational component. The experience might be enhanced by sharing the thrill with other passengers. While smaller group options provide a more individualized, private experience, group excursions foster a lively and social environment.
Iceland’s Natural Wonders
Iceland, with its dramatic landscapes, steaming geysers, picturesque fjords and cascading waterfalls, is a destination that captivates the imagination. From the vibrant capital city of Reykjavik to the rugged fjords of the East, every corner of this island nation is a testament to nature’s grandeur.
Despite its small population, Iceland boasts a rich cultural heritage shaped by centuries of isolation and resilience. Travellers can immerse themselves in the vibrant arts and music scene of Reykjavik and delve deeper into Iceland’s fascinating Viking history and Icelandic sagas at educational museums and cultural centres.
Planning Your Trip
Recommended Duration for an Aurora-focused visit
Accommodations and Transportation tips
Discovering Iceland’s remarkable landscapes from the comfort of an expedition cruise offers an unparalleled perspective on this remarkable Nordic nation. Aurora’s expertly crafted expedition cruises provide the perfect blend of adventure and luxury whilst highlighting Iceland’s most spectacular natural wonders.
Join Aurora for an unforgettable expedition cruise around Iceland, where every day brings new adventures and the opportunity to experience this remarkable country from an entirely new perspective.
For the most extraordinary Icelandic experience, we recommend visiting with Aurora between May and September, offering an ideal balance of daytime activity and Northern Lights opportunities. Longer days illuminates Iceland’s dramatic landscapes, and wildlife is at its most active, while travelling during this time also might offer the opportunity to witness the magical Northern Lights covering the skies. Each season offers unique perspectives, the summer months provide optimal conditions for expedition cruising, with milder temperatures and extended daylight hours perfect for exploration and photography.
Featured Expeditions
Arctic Golden Autumn & Northern Lights
Discovery Expedition
Welcome to Aurora’s Arctic Golden Autumn & Northern Lights expedition.Embark on an extraordinary Arctic odyssey. From the vibrant capital of Iceland to the remote and pristine landscapes of the High...
17 Days
From AUD $23,921.25/pp
Traversing the Northwest Passage
Polar Expedition
Welcome to Aurora Expeditions’ Traversing the Northwest Passage expedition. On this epic voyage inspired by Roald Amundsen’s historic expedition, we attempt to sail the full length of the Northwest Passage, carving...
29 Days
From AUD $56,556.00/pp
Northern Lights Explorer
Discovery Expedition
Welcome to Aurora Expeditions’ Northern Lights Explorer expedition. Shorter days in the high latitudes means darkening evening skies, so on this voyage we stay close to the coastlines of the Arctic...
18 Days
From AUD $28,725.75/pp
