The Aurora Borealis, commonly known as the Northern Lights, is a breathtaking natural phenomenon that attracts thousands of visitors to Iceland every year. These shimmering lights, dancing in vibrant hues of green, pink, and purple across the Arctic sky, are one of the most unforgettable sights in the world. Iceland’s unique location near the Arctic Circle makes it one of the best places to witness this spectacular display. Whether you’re planning your first trip or returning for another adventure, this comprehensive guide will help you discover the best times, top locations, and essential tips for experiencing the Northern Lights in Iceland. With proper planning and the right conditions, your dream of seeing the aurora can become a reality.
Here’s an expanded guide to help you plan your Northern Lights adventure in Iceland.
When to See the Northern Lights
The best time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland is from late September to early April, when nights are long and dark. Peak viewing times are typically between 9 PM and 2 AM.
Key Factors for Aurora Sightings:
Darkness: Avoid areas with light pollution for the best visibility.
Clear Skies: Cloud cover can block the aurora, so monitor weather forecasts.
Solar Activity: Check aurora forecasts on websites like Vedur.is for updates on solar activity.
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Where to Go: Top Viewing Locations
Iceland’s remote and sparsely populated areas provide ideal conditions for aurora watching. Some top spots include:
Þingvellir National Park: A short drive from ReykjavÃk, this UNESCO site offers wide-open skies and stunning natural beauty.
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon: Combine aurora viewing with stunning glacial scenery. The reflection of the lights on the icebergs is unforgettable.
Akureyri and Northern Iceland: Northern regions often have clearer skies and fewer crowds.
Kirkjufell Mountain: This iconic peak on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula provides a dramatic backdrop for aurora photography.
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Tips for Capturing the Lights
Photography Gear: Use a DSLR or mirrorless camera with manual settings, a tripod, and a wide-angle lens.
Settings: Start with a 10-20 second exposure, high ISO (800-3200), and a low aperture (f/2.8 or lower).
Smartphone Photography: Modern smartphones with night mode can also capture the lights, though results may vary.
Dress Warmly: Layer up with thermal clothing, gloves, and hats to stay comfortable during long nights outdoors.
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How to Take a Photo of the Northern Lights with Your iPhone
Thanks to advancements in smartphone technology, you don’t need a professional camera to capture the Northern Lights—your iPhone can do the job remarkably well! Many newer models come with night mode or manual settings that work beautifully for low-light photography. To get the best results, practice using your phone’s night photography features ahead of time. Familiarize yourself with adjusting exposure, focus, and other settings so you’re ready when the auroras appear. A tripod or a steady surface is highly recommended to avoid blur during long exposures.
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Guided Northern Lights Tours
Joining a tour increases your chances of seeing the Northern Lights, as guides know the best spots and conditions. Many tours offer free retries if you don’t see the lights on your first attempt. Look for tours that provide expert photography tips or include stops at iconic landmarks for a more memorable experience.
Additional Tips for a Successful Northern Lights Trip
Stay Flexible: Weather in Iceland can change rapidly, so plan multiple nights for aurora hunting.
Bring Snacks and Hot Drinks: Keep warm and energized while waiting for the lights to appear.
Download Useful Apps: Apps like Aurora Forecast or My Aurora Forecast can help track aurora activity in real time.
Rent a Car: If you prefer exploring independently, renting a car gives you the freedom to chase clear skies and avoid crowds.
**Before heading out, consult the Iceland Met Office’s aurora forecast to assess solar activity and cloud cover. This will help you determine the optimal nights for viewing.
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Photography Tips for Capturing the Northern Lights
Equipment Checklist
Camera: Use a DSLR or mirrorless camera with manual settings for full control over exposure, aperture, and ISO.
Tripod: Essential for long exposure shots to avoid blurriness caused by camera shake.
Remote Shutter Release: Minimize vibrations by triggering the camera without touching it, or use your camera’s timer function as an alternative.
Wide-Angle Lens: Opt for a lens with a low aperture (f/2.8 or lower) to capture more light and a broader view of the sky.
Extra Batteries: Cold weather drains batteries quickly. Bring fully charged spares and keep them warm in an inner pocket.
Headlamp with Red Light Mode: A red light helps you see in the dark without disrupting your night vision.
Camera & Lens Settings
Image Stabilization: Turn it off on your lens or camera to avoid interference with tripod-mounted shots.
ISO: Start with an ISO between 800 and 3200. Higher ISO settings can capture more light but might increase image noise.
Aperture: Use the widest aperture your lens allows (e.g., f/2.8) to maximize light capture.
Shutter Speed: Experiment with exposure times between 10 and 30 seconds. Shorter exposures preserve detail in fast-moving auroras, while longer exposures create smoother, more vibrant images.
Manual Focus: Focus on the stars or set your lens to infinity for sharp, crisp shots.
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