Are you also interested in seeing the Northern Lights? Are the Northern Lights on your bucket list as well? Then worry no more; you are at the right place.

The chances of seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland are very high. It is because of the long hours of darkness during the winter, a full eight-month northern lights season, and the low light pollution throughout the country.

You will be able to see the best aurora borealis here in September. The incredible landscapes like mountains, waterfalls, beaches, glaciers, rock formations and cliffs make the experience even more wonderful.

What Are Northern Lights

Northern Lights, or aurora borealis, are photon particles created by oxygen and nitrogen molecules reacting with Solar Energetic Particles (SEPs) in the earth’s atmosphere.

Since the magnetic poles near Iceland are relatively weaker than most parts of the world, the aurora-viewing experience in this place is mesmerizing. Aurora hunters are always eager to capture the best they can from the bright auroras in the sky.

Not only the locals but aurora borealis in Iceland also attract many tourists from all over the world. There is a special Iceland Northern Lights tour that is arranged for tourists. 

Best Time To See Northern Light In Iceland

The Iceland Northern Lights season starts in late August and is in proper form till mid-April. Among these months, the preferred time to see Northern Lights in Iceland is March and September. It is because solar activity is at a peak during these months, which increases the chance of seeing the aurora displays.

On the other hand, September and March also have a warmer weather forecast compared to the additional months in the northern lights season. During these months, fewer or no clouds are seen in the sky, which also adds to the better experience of seeing the Northern lights. 

The aurora season or the aurora forecast generally corresponds with the fall and winter seasons in the year. This time of the year has the most darkness and is ideal for seeing the northern lights forecast not only in Iceland but in all northern lights viewing locations worldwide.

During summer and early spring, it is not ideal to see the northern lights in Iceland because the daylight hours are long, and the lights of the north do not get enough nights. 

Best Months To Witness The Northern Lights 

1. August

If you plan to visit Iceland to see the northern lights, we suggest you visit this place in August. It is guaranteed that you will be able to experience the nice northern lights in Iceland during this time. Also, make sure to check the aurora borealis forecast beforehand. Who knows, you can get luckier.

2. September

If you could not see the northern lights in August or could not make it to Iceland during August, try to visit this place in September. It is because, in September, the Northern Lights tend to stay in the night sky for longer.

In addition, Iceland’s weather in September is much better than in the other months, making it the best time to visit Iceland. There is fewer or no cloud cover during this time which contributes to the clearer vision of the aurora borealis.

3. October

During October, Iceland’s weather is relatively colder than the other months. The country experiences its first snowfall during this time. Since the snow persists for some time, there is more cloud cover, contributing to the light’s low intensity.

Tips To Capture A Good Picture Of The Northern Lights

If you have travelled to Iceland to see the northern lights, it is obvious that you will want to take some good pictures of them. Being able to click good Northern Lights views depends on many factors. 

Follow these tips below to capture some good pictures of the northern lights.

• Make sure to carry a good camera.

• Double-check all your gear when you are planning to click the Northern Lights.

• Check the battery, and change and charge them according to the need.

• Carry a tripod and mount it on the location.

• Make sure to set the focus to achieve sharp images.

• It is best to shoot the pictures raw without adding any filters. It will ensure that you can edit the images as per your preference.

• Always raise the ISO according to the sensor of your camera.

• Ensure opening the aperture of your lens. It will help you capture more light, which will result in better picture quality.

• Select different shutter times to get the perfect click.

• You can also click the pictures in contrast.

• Do not just focus on clicking the pictures of the northern lights; rather, make sure to click the images of the amazing landscapes of Iceland along with the Northern Lights.

• Clicking pictures of landscapes along with the northern lights in Iceland will add more depth and life to your photographs.

If you follow these tips, you will surely get some unique clicks from the Northern Lights. You will be able to talk to your friends and family about your amazing photography skills!

Final Note

Northern lights are present on the bucket list of a lot of people. Many people dream of seeing the Northern Lights at least once in their lifetime. There are many places in the world where you can witness the beauty of the northern lights. 

So what is the delay all about? Plan your trip, pack your bags and get ready to see the mesmerizing beauty of nature!

Last Updated on March 16, 2024 by Parina Parmar