Chasing the Northern Lights in Iceland

Chasing the Northern Lights in Iceland

Iceland
#Iceland #northern-lights #winter-travel #adventure

Iceland in winter is a different world - a land of ice, fire, and one of nature’s most spectacular light shows. After years of dreaming about seeing the Northern Lights, I finally made the journey to this Nordic island nation, and it exceeded every expectation.

The Quest Begins

Seeing the Northern Lights isn’t guaranteed. It requires clear skies, solar activity, and a good dose of patience. We spent a week in Iceland during late November, giving ourselves the best chance to witness the Aurora Borealis.

Night One: Patience

Our first night was cloudy. We drove out of Reykjavik, away from light pollution, and waited. And waited. Nothing. The forecast app showed potential activity, but the clouds didn’t cooperate. This is part of the adventure - nature operates on its own schedule.

Night Three: The Moment

On our third night, after a day exploring the Golden Circle, we checked the aurora forecast. Strong activity predicted! We drove to Thingvellir National Park and set up our cameras around 11 PM.

At 11:47 PM, it started.

A faint green glow appeared on the horizon. Within minutes, it intensified, dancing across the sky in waves of green, white, and occasional purple. No photo can capture the feeling of watching the Northern Lights dance above you. It’s ethereal, almost spiritual.

We stayed until 2 AM, watching the lights pulse and swirl. By the time we drove back to our hotel, we were exhausted but elated.

Beyond the Lights

While the Northern Lights were the main goal, Iceland’s winter landscape offered countless other wonders:

The Golden Circle

The classic tourist route, but spectacular in winter:

  • Thingvellir National Park: Where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet
  • Geysir: Watching Strokkur erupt every 5-10 minutes never gets old
  • Gullfoss: The “Golden Falls” partially frozen - absolutely stunning

Glacier Hiking

We joined a glacier hiking tour on Sólheimajökull. Strapping on crampons and walking across ancient ice, peering into deep blue crevasses - it’s humbling and exhilarating.

The Blue Lagoon

Yes, it’s touristy. Yes, it’s expensive. Yes, it’s absolutely worth it. Soaking in the milky blue geothermal water while snow falls around you is magical.

Black Sand Beach

Reynisfjara beach with its basalt columns and powerful waves is otherworldly. The winter storms make it even more dramatic (but respect the warning signs - those waves are dangerous).

Practical Tips

Clothing

  • Layer, layer, layer
  • Waterproof outer shell is essential
  • Good boots with grip
  • Warm gloves and hat
  • Thermal underwear

Photography

  • Tripod is a must for Northern Lights
  • Extra batteries (cold drains them fast)
  • Manual camera settings
  • Learn long exposure techniques before you go

Driving

  • Rent a 4WD vehicle
  • Check weather and road conditions daily
  • Winter tires are mandatory
  • Drive slowly - roads can be icy
  • Fill up gas whenever you can

Northern Lights Apps

  • “My Aurora Forecast” for activity predictions
  • Check cloud cover forecasts
  • Be prepared to stay up late or wake up in the middle of the night

The Cost

Iceland isn’t cheap, but it’s manageable with planning:

  • Flights: $400-800 depending on season
  • Car rental: $70-120/day for 4WD
  • Accommodation: $100-200/night
  • Food: $50-80/day
  • Activities: $50-150 per activity
  • Weekly budget: $2,500-3,500 for two people

Final Thoughts

Iceland in winter is challenging - short days, cold weather, unpredictable conditions. But it’s also incredibly rewarding. The landscapes are otherworldly, the experiences are unforgettable, and if you’re lucky enough to see the Northern Lights dancing across the sky, it’s a moment you’ll carry with you forever.

Would I go back? In a heartbeat. There’s so much more to explore, and part of me will always be chasing those lights.

Categories: travel