Where to see Northern Lights in Iceland

This post is also available in: Español

If you are thinking of traveling to Iceland, you have surely thought of trying to see the northern lights. Normal! This wonder of nature is seen in few places and several conditions must be met for them to appear. To make it a little easier, in this post we tell you where to see northern lights in Iceland.

First of all, it is not certain that you will see them because as we say, certain factors must be met, but in these areas you are more likely to get them. First of all, we recommend you to take a look at our post on the curiosities of the northern lights, to start getting into the subject. Now, here we go!

Northern Lights near Reykjavík

On the outskirts of Reykjavik, the capital of the country, there is much less light pollution, which makes it easier to see the northern lights. Therefore, on the tour to see the Northern Lights from Reykjavik, you will be taken a bit away from the central area of the town.

In addition, you have the opportunity to see these stunning lights in the sky from the water on a boat. Seeing the Northern Lights by cruise ship from Reykjavik is a once in a lifetime experience, a must if you visit Iceland 😉 .

Jökulsárlón

In this region is the largest glacial lagoon in the country. This area gives meaning to the ice part of the word Iceland, so you can imagine the scenery. You can reach us in 5 hours by car from reykjavík and is a very sought after area for the famous kayaking in the glacial lagoon of Jokulsarlon.

It is one of the places where to see Northern Lights in Iceland and if you are lucky enough to see them, the lagoon acts as a mirror and is spectacular. The lights are reflected in the water and ice and the image that is produced is indescribable.

Geysir

Geysir is the oldest geyser in Iceland and one of the stops on Iceland’s Golden Circle. From this point you can also see aurora borealis and although there is light pollution from nearby utilities, when the aurora has a certain intensity, seeing it from here is amazing.

Kirkjufell

It is the most famous mountain peak in Iceland and its north-facing orientation offers privileged views of the phenomena. You should know that it is a very touristy place always full of travelers who want to immortalize the moment, so it is not the most isolated place so to speak.

Hvítserkur

It is a rock formation also known as the “Rhino” and faces north and seaward, making it a perfect location for photographing the aurora in northern Iceland.

Stokkness

Last but not least, Stokkness. Undoubtedly, it is the best beach to see auroras in Iceland. Stokksnes: The iconic Vestrahorn Mountains offer a great opportunity to see the northern lights of Iceland reflected on the beach surrounded by black volcanic sand dunes.

Skógafoss

See the northern lights in a waterfall? It’s possible. The Skógafoss waterfall faces north toward the Eyjafjallajökull volcano (try pronouncing that), so light pollution is nonexistent. The only thing that can the views is the amount of flashes.

There are probably more places in the country where you can enjoy the phenomenon. However, these are our favorites and where we have been able to see them.

We hope we have answered your question about where to see northern lights in Iceland, and that you have been encouraged to pack your suitcase to travel and enjoy them. It is an experience that even if they tell you about it, you can’t imagine it until you live it. Have you ever seen it?