Best Places to Experience the Northern Lights in North Iceland

Winter in Iceland enchants with its snowfall, long, cozy nights, and the mesmerizing Northern Lights illuminating the night sky. Each year, adventurers travel to this stunning landscape, hoping to catch sight of the dancing lights. While the well-trodden path of the Golden Circle attracts many to the south, seasoned aurora seekers understand the importance of leaving behind the clamor of light pollution. If you truly want to experience the aurora borealis in all its glory, a trek further north is essential.

For those yearning to gaze upon the breathtaking hues of the Northern Lights, North Iceland is a destination that should not be overlooked. While the south boasts its share of wonders, the north offers a compelling combination that cannot be matched: expansive, untainted dark skies, stunning landscapes that serve as dramatic backdrops, and potentially clearer weather than the often-overcast South Coast.

From remote fjords to surreal, otherworldly terrains, we have curated a list of the best locations to catch the Northern Lights in North Iceland.

1. Lake Mývatn

Nestled in northeastern Iceland, Lake Mývatn is a geothermal and geological marvel. This shallow, nutrient-rich body of water lies in one of the country’s most volcanically active regions, shaped by centuries of eruptions and lava flows.

For those on the hunt for the aurora, Mývatn’s allure lies in its seclusion. Positioned far from the urban bustle, it experiences minimal light pollution, allowing for a breathtaking display of the Northern Lights when conditions are right. The clarity with which they appear, combined with the enhanced contrast against dark skies, makes this location a favorite among photographers eager to capture the stunning displays.

The ethereal landscape of Mývatn further elevates its charm. With remarkable geological features like the Hverfjall explosion crater and the eerie lava formations of Dimmuborgir, these unique formations rise starkly from the snowy ground, providing a surreal setting for the aurora overhead.

2. Jökulsárgljúfur Canyon and Ásbyrgi

Following the Jökulsá á Fjöllum river northward leads to the expansive Jökulsárgljúfur Canyon, a striking part of Vatnajökull National Park. This immense gorge, sculpted by glacial meltwater, stretches 25 kilometers and showcases some of Iceland’s most dramatic landscapes.

The canyon is remarkable for its scale and isolation, which translate to exceptionally dark skies, ideal for observing the Northern Lights. Within the boundaries of the national park, several key locations provide diverse backdrops for capturing the auroras.

• Dettifoss Waterfall: Renowned as Europe’s most powerful waterfall, Dettifoss dazzles even by daylight. At night, witnessing auroral ribbons of green and purple swirl above the roaring, frozen cascade is an unforgettable sight.
• Ásbyrgi Canyon: Situated at the northern end of the gorge, Ásbyrgi is a horseshoe-shaped canyon encircled by imposing cliffs. This dramatic, sheltered terrain forms a natural amphitheater that beautifully frames the night sky.

3. Goðafoss Waterfall

Just off the Ring Road, Goðafoss is perhaps the most accessible site for observing the Northern Lights in North Iceland.

Its evocative name, translating to “Waterfall of the Gods,” is steeped in rich legend. Local lore suggests that lawspeaker Þorgeir Ljósvetningagoði cast his pagan idols into the tumultuous waters in the year 1000, marking Iceland’s official adoption of Christianity.

Due to its convenient location, Goðafoss draws many travelers based in Akureyri. Here, the experience of watching the Northern Lights is particularly enchanting, as the semi-circular cascade mirrors the vibrant lights above, creating a breathtaking fusion of history, beauty, and accessibility.

4. Siglufjörður

Nestled on Iceland’s northern coast, the quaint fishing town of Siglufjörður feels wonderfully remote. Tucked within a narrow fjord on the Tröllaskagi Peninsula, this once-bustling hub, known as the “Herring Capital of the Atlantic,” has transformed into a tranquil destination.

Here, the pursuit of the aurora can be accomplished along the secluded shores or nearby Héðinsfjörður, where mountains encircle the fjord, creating a protective, dark bowl. Among the serene fishing boats and charming historic buildings, the ethereal dance of the aurora becomes a striking spectacle amid stunning coastal scenery.

A peaceful getaway, breathtaking landscapes, and a high probability of witnessing the Northern Lights await those who venture to Siglufjörður.

5. Hvítserkur

Located along the eastern shore of the remote Vatnsnes Peninsula in northwest Iceland, Hvítserkur is a spectacular site for light chasers. This 15-meter (nearly 50-foot) basalt sea stack, sculpted by the relentless ocean, resembles a mythical creature—a petrified dragon or a dinosaur quenching its thirst.

With only a few small settlements nearby, the skies here are largely untouched by light pollution. The stark contrast of the dark volcanic sand beach against the towering, white-streaked rock creates a unique canvas for aurora displays.

During low tide, visitors can even venture close to the base of the sea stack, giving them the opportunity to capture the Northern Lights with this enchanting rock formation as a backdrop.

Best Time to See the Northern Lights in Iceland

Timing is paramount when it comes to successfully spotting the Northern Lights in North Iceland. Three essential factors come into play: solar activity, darkness, and clear skies with minimal cloud cover.

For optimal viewing conditions, plan your visit between late August and mid-April when the nights are long enough for the auroras to grace the north.

• Autumn (September–October): A sought-after period, autumn offers dark nights paired with relatively mild temperatures. During this season, coinciding with the autumn equinox, increased geomagnetic activity often enhances auroral displays.
• Winter (November–February): This season boasts the maximum darkness, with the winter solstice in December offering up to 20 hours of darkness daily in North Iceland. While this extended viewing window heightens your chances, be prepared for unpredictable weather, including snow and strong winds.
• Spring (March–mid-April): Spring often mirrors autumn, with heightened geomagnetic activity during the spring equinox. As daylight hours gradually increase, this season becomes ideal for combining aurora hunting with daytime exploration, as nights remain sufficiently dark well into April.
• Summer (May–mid-August): Although auroral activity continues, the Icelandic summer is dominated by the Midnight Sun. The lack of true darkness during these months renders auroras invisible.

Tips for Seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland

When visiting Iceland in winter, making the most of your time to spot the lights is key. Here are some essential tips to enhance your chances of witnessing the Northern Lights in North Iceland.

• Understand the Forecasts: Begin by monitoring the aurora forecasts, including the KP-index, to assess solar activity. Equally important is checking the local weather forecasts and cloud cover maps, as even the strongest auroras can be obscured by thick clouds.
• Stay Informed About Weather and Road Conditions: Winter weather in North Iceland can be harsh, leading to frequent road closures. Before embarking on your journey, always check vedur.is and road.is for updates.
• Escape the City Lights: Seek out locations with little light pollution. If you’re based in Akureyri, a short drive of 20–30 minutes can lead you to noticeably darker skies. Elevated areas or coastal regions often provide the best vantage points.
• Exercise Patience and Stay Awake: The peak period of activity typically occurs between 9 PM and 2 AM. Bring a thermos of hot cocoa and prepare to wait—some of the most stunning displays can happen just after you decide to call it a night.
• Consider Joining a Tour: If you prefer to leave the logistics to the experts, book a Northern Lights tour. Local guides in North Iceland have the knowledge to interpret forecasts, navigate winter roads, and find the darkest, safest viewing spots.
• Dress for the Cold: Be prepared to stand still outdoors in frigid temperatures for extended periods. Layering is key; ensure you have thermal undergarments, a heavy parka, waterproof outer layers, insulated boots, thick socks, gloves, and a hat.

Photographing the Northern Lights in Iceland

Capturing the enchanting Northern Lights in North Iceland is a cherished goal for many visitors. Photographs and videos serve as the perfect souvenirs. Here are essential tips for securing stunning images of this celestial phenomenon.

• Use a Tripod: This is the most crucial piece of equipment for aurora photography. Long exposure times (from two to 30 seconds) are necessary, and any movement will lead to blurred images. Your camera must remain completely still.
• Switch to Manual Settings (DSLR/Mirrorless): Adjust your camera to manual focus, set it to infinity, use the widest aperture possible, and select a moderate ISO. Start with exposure times of 10-15 seconds, adjusting as needed based on the lights’ movement.
• Choose a Wide-Angle Lens: A wide-angle lens (14mm to 24mm equivalent) is ideal, allowing you to capture the full sweep of the aurora while including dramatic foreground elements.
• Utilize Night Mode (Smartphones): Modern smartphones can effectively capture the aurora using dedicated Night Mode or Pro settings, mimicking long exposure. Remember to use a small tripod during the shot (usually lasting 3–10 seconds).
• Employ a Remote or Timer: A remote shutter release or a two-second self-timer allows you to trigger the shot without touching the camera, minimizing vibrations that can cause blur.
• Compose the Foreground: Enhance your photographs by including the silhouette of a waterfall, a mountain, or the fantastic shapes of Hvítserkur, adding scale and intrigue to your final image.

Chasing the Northern Lights in North Iceland

For an unforgettable aurora experience, navigate away from the crowds towards the remote northern regions. The area’s seclusion, combined with rugged landscapes and dark skies, makes it a premier destination for avid aurora hunters.

By closely monitoring aurora and weather forecasts, dressing appropriately for the cold, and applying the tips we’ve discussed, you’ll be well-prepared for your quest. Begin planning your Northern Lights adventure in North Iceland, and let the night skies work their magic.