Icelandic Adventures: A Guide to Chasing the Northern Lights
January 29, 2024
5 min read
Iceland, the land of fire and ice, is globally acknowledged for its breathtaking landscapes, geysers, hot springs, volcanoes, and glaciers.
But there's one more spectacle that draws thousands of tourists each year, a natural phenomenon that dances across the night sky in vibrant green, purple, and red hues—the northern lights, also known as Aurora Borealis.
The Science of the Northern Lights
The northern lights happen when particles from the sun, like electrons and protons, meet and mingle with the gas molecules in Earth's atmosphere. The energy discharged from these interactions forms radiant lights, most often seen in green, pink, and purple tones.
The captivating colors of the northern lights are determined by the specific gas molecules involved in the atmospheric collisions. Collisions with oxygen molecules generate green and red lights, while encounters with nitrogen molecules yield blue, purple, and pink lights. This leads to the Aurora Borealis' enchanting and continuously evolving visual spectacle.
The Best Time to Witness the Northern Lights in Iceland
Iceland offers some of the most favorable conditions for northern lights viewing, but the timing is crucial. The prime season to catch a glimpse of this celestial display in Iceland is from late September to early April. During these months, the nights are long, and the skies are dark, providing the perfect backdrop for the northern lights to shine.
Within this season, the months of October to March are considered the peak period for northern lights hunting in Iceland. This is when the combination of darkness and geomagnetic activity is at its highest, increasing the likelihood of witnessing the Aurora Borealis in all its glory.
Ideal Weather Conditions
While the northern lights are primarily influenced by solar activity, clear and dark skies are equally essential for a successful viewing experience. Since Iceland's weather can be quite erratic, travelers are strongly advised to stay vigilant with weather forecasts and stay ready for abrupt weather changes.
For a higher likelihood of catching the northern lights, select nights with clear skies and little light pollution. Light pollution, caused by cities and other man-made sources, can greatly reduce how well you can see the Aurora Borealis. So, it's best to pick remote spots far from urban areas.
Where to Witness the Northern Lights in Iceland
Iceland offers numerous picturesque locations where you can chase the northern lights. Here are some of the most popular spots:
1. Reykjavik
Reykjavik, Iceland's capital city, is a surprisingly good place to witness the northern lights. While light pollution can be a concern, you don't have to venture far from the city center to catch a glimpse of the lights on a clear night. For the best experience, take a short drive to the outskirts of Reykjavik to escape the urban lights.
2. Thingvellir National Park
Located only about an hour's drive from Reykjavik, Thingvellir National Park offers an excellent balance of natural beauty and accessibility. The park's vast open spaces and tranquil lakes provide a stunning backdrop for the northern lights. It's an ideal spot for those who prefer not to venture too far from the capital.
3. The Golden Circle
The Golden Circle represents a well-loved tourist path, encompassing Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir Geothermal Area, and the stunning Gullfoss Waterfall. This journey guides you through Iceland's most famous landscapes, making it a tempting choice for blending northern lights exploration with other exciting sights.
4. The Snaefellsnes Peninsula
Plan a trip to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula along Iceland's western shores for a deeper and more immersive encounter with nature. This area showcases a rugged shoreline, breathtaking scenery, and minimal light interference, making it a superb option for avid northern lights admirers.
5. North Iceland
The northern regions of Iceland, including places like Akureyri and Lake Myvatn, offer fantastic northern light viewing opportunities. These areas are known for their remote wilderness and relatively low levels of light pollution, providing an optimal environment for chasing the Aurora Borealis.
Tips for Northern Lights Chasing in Iceland
Here are some valuable tips to enhance your northern lights experience in Iceland:
1. Check the Aurora Forecast
Make sure you're on top of the Aurora forecast to increase your opportunities of seeing the northern lights during their prime. Numerous websites and apps offer up-to-the-minute Aurora forecasts specifically for Iceland.
2. Pack Warm Clothing
Be prepared for Iceland's chilly nights, which can even be quite cold in the milder seasons. To ensure your comfort during outdoor activities, it's advisable to layer your clothing. Don't overlook the importance of packing quality thermal socks, gloves, and a cozy hat.
3. Photography Gear
If you're planning to capture the northern lights on camera, bring a tripod and a camera with manual settings to adjust for long exposure shots. Wide-angle lenses are also ideal for capturing the expansive beauty of the lights.
4. Patience is Key
Prepare for some lengthy waits. The northern lights, being a natural phenomenon, can be unpredictable, requiring a good deal of patience. Enjoy the experience of being surrounded by Iceland's untouched wilderness while you eagerly await the lights' enchanting display.
5. Local Tours
Think about the option of participating in a guided northern lights tour led by seasoned experts. They can lead you to prime locations and share valuable insights. Many of these tours come with well-informed guides who can explain both the scientific facts and folklore related to the northern lights.
How to Capture the Northern Lights
Photographing the northern lights is a dream for many, but it can be challenging. Here are some tips:
- Use a tripod to stabilize your camera since you'll be using long exposure times.
- Adjust your camera to manual mode and play around with various settings. A solid starting point is having your ISO at 1600, aperture at f/2.8, and shutter speed at 20 seconds.
- Use a wide-angle lens to capture more of the sky.
- Don't forget to enjoy the moment. While capturing the phenomenon is thrilling, witnessing it with your own eyes is an unparalleled experience.
Remember, these are just starting points, and every situation can be unique. Experimentation and patience are key to capturing the perfect shot of the northern lights.
Chasing the Aurora
Iceland is undeniably one of the best places on Earth to witness the northern lights. Its unique combination of geographic location, natural beauty, and accessible locations make it an ideal destination for Aurora hunters.
To maximize your chances of witnessing this mesmerizing phenomenon, plan your trip during the peak season, stay alert to weather patterns, and choose a location away from light pollution. With the right preparation and a touch of luck, you'll have the opportunity to witness the northern lights in all their breathtaking glory, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
