Best time to see the northern lights in Iceland

Iceland is the perfect place for northern lights hunting because of its proximity to the Arctic Circle, long winter nights and minimal light pollution to obstruct your view. 

The best time to visit Iceland to see the northern lights, or aurora borealis, is when the nights are long and the skies are clear. That’s typically between September and April. Read on for more tips to get the very best out of your Iceland northern lights trip.

What you’ll learn:

• Northern lights season in Iceland typically falls between September and April.

• The best time of day to catch the northern lights is usually between 9 p.m. and 2 a.m., with midnight being peak time.

• There’s never a guarantee that you’ll see the northern lights, but there’s a better chance if you go somewhere remote with minimal light pollution and clear skies. 

• Capital One travel credit cards can elevate your northern lights trip with flexible rewards, smart tools and travel benefits.

In general, the northern lights in Iceland are most visible from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. each night, reaching their peak around midnight. And the best months to see them are typically September through April. But within that timeframe, there are three periods in particular to consider.

• November to January: It stays darker for longer during this time of year, so you may have a better chance of catching the lights.

• Spring or fall equinox: There tends to be more auroral activity during the spring equinox in March and the fall equinox in September. But the days are longer in spring and fall than in the winter, so you could have a smaller viewing window.

A few different factors play into your likelihood of seeing the northern lights. These include clear skies, minimal light pollution and enough solar activity. But in general, some top locations for northern lights viewing in Iceland include:

A charming seaside town on Iceland’s South Shore, Vik is home to natural wonders like black-sand beaches, glaciers and waterfalls. It’s about two and a half hours from the capital of Reykjavík and offers unobstructed views free from light pollution. 

Jokulsarlon is a glacier lagoon on Iceland’s South Shore. If you’re lucky, you can watch the lights dance in the sky and reflect on the lake as massive icebergs glide through the water. The lagoon is also a haven for seals, so watch for them too.

The Snaefellsnes Peninsula has the nickname of “Little Iceland” for its diverse geographic features. These include Kirkjufell, which National Geographic named one of the 25 most beautiful mountains in the world; Djupalonssandur, a beach of smooth black pebbles; and Vatnshellir Cave, the product of a volcanic eruption.

The Westfjords are in Iceland’s far-northwest corner. It’s remote and sparsely populated. But its untouched rural landscapes, quiet fjords and low light pollution create the perfect conditions for aurora hunting. Enjoy the lights from Reykjanes’ natural hot springs or the viewing platform on top of Bolafjall Mountain.

About an hour from Reykjavík, Thingvellir National Park is within the Golden Circle, a 190-mile scenic loop that showcases some of Iceland’s main attractions. You can watch the lights from your car or hike through the park to find a vantage point.

As you start planning your trip to see the northern lights in Iceland, there are a few steps you can take to give yourself a better chance of success.

• Check the forecast: You can check the forecast ahead of time to gauge your likelihood of seeing the lights. The Icelandic Meteorological Office’s website gives you a rating between zero and nine. And there are different apps you can use too.

• Pack appropriately: Iceland can be extremely cold, especially during the winter months and at nighttime, so it’s important to layer your clothes. And don’t forget your winter accessories, like hats, gloves, scarves and socks. 

• Research photography techniques: If you’re hoping to document your viewing experience, a single lens reflex (SLR) camera with features like manual focus and a nighttime setting can help you take the best shots. Consider bringing a tripod and practicing nighttime photography before you arrive. 

• Rent a car: If you’re not joining a tour, you could rent a car to find more remote places to watch the lights. 

If you’re planning a trip to see the northern lights in Iceland, consider taking a Capital One travel rewards credit card. Eligible cardholders enjoy smart tools, unlimited miles and other benefits.

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Iceland’s long winters, dark and clear skies and unique geographic location make it a premier destination for northern lights viewing. The best time to go is when it stays dark longer, usually between September and April. 

Capital One offers travel rewards credit cards with exclusive benefits and elevated rewards that can help make your travel experience even more enjoyable. 

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