Northern lights in Iceland

Northern Lights Holidays in Iceland

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Iceland offers many experiences for those eager to chase the northern lights. From luxury glass roof lodges to the famous Golden Circle route, Iceland's expansive sky and limited light pollution make spotting the elusive lights a high possibility. Self-drive through national parks, visit thundering waterfalls beneath the glimmering night sky, or float in serenity at one of Iceland's geothermal lagoons for optimal aurora viewing.



Northern Lights Experiences in Iceland

An aurora cruise under the northern lights in Iceland

Northern Lights on the water

For northern lights chasers eager to explore the Icelandic skies away from the city lights, boat cruises from the capital's Old Harbour are the ideal solution. From September to March, the gentle sway of the ocean offers a comforting platform to view glimmering displays of green. Heated indoor seating provides warmth on wintery nights and the panoramic outdoor platform enables unobstructed viewing across the vast sky. Learn about the natural phenomenon whilst capturing pictures for memories that will last a lifetime.

Northern lights over the Torfhus retreat in South Iceland

Built for Sky Gazing

Sleep in some of Iceland's most sought-after secluded stays where the winter sky reigns supreme. In the heart of the Golden Circle, the traditional turf roof houses of Torfhus Retreat offer luxury living in an area of breathtaking natural beauty. Far from the bustle of the city, the retreat's location is one of the best in Iceland to view the dazzling light show. Head to Hotel Ranga to indulge in peaceful luxury, where their very own observatory and telescopes are a portal into the bright night sky.

We'll send you a complimentary copy of Bradt's Northern Lights Travel Guide Book when you book your northern lights adventure with us

The northern lights over the Blue Lagoon, Iceland

Blue Lagoon

An aurora seekers paradise, one of Iceland's most restorative attractions offers a mesmerising viewing experience. The silky geothermal pools at Blue Lagoon form between volcanic rocks in Iceland's open, craggy landscape. Glide through healing waters and indulge in a selection of treatments whilst searching for mother nature's most famous light show above. Dine in the Lagoon's incredible restaurant, where floor-to-ceiling windows provide the perfect platform for continued aurora hunting.

The northern lights against the starlit sky in Iceland

OFF THE BEATEN TRACK

For thrill-seekers who truly want to 'chase' the aurora, an excursion out into the crunchy lava fields, moss-coated rocks and plunging valleys is a must. Venture off the beaten track on a wilderness extravaganza. Hop aboard a specialist vehicle before zooming off to the optimal spots for northern lights viewing. Drive away from the light pollution into crisp, clear aurora zones, wrap up in a blanket with a cup of hot chocolate in hand and gaze up in awe as ribbons of green dance between the stars.


The best places to stay to see the northern lights in Iceland

Northern Lights in Iceland

Skogafoss waterfall under the northern lights in Iceland
Northern lights hunting in Iceland
The Aurora Borealis in Iceland
The northern lights over Markarfljótsgljúfur Canyon, Iceland
The Aurora Borealis over the Icelandic wilderness
Hvitsekur rock formation in Iceland
The northern lights over Sólheimasandur plane wreck in Iceland

We can't wait to help you plan your northern lights adventure to Iceland