What Are The Northern Lights?
The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are one of nature’s most spectacular displays. They occur when the sun’s charged particles interact with the Earth’s atmosphere, causing the gases to glow.
The best time to see them is during the winter months when the nights are long and dark. The best place to see them is in Iceland, where they are often visible from late September to early April.
There are two main types of Northern Lights: aurora borealis and aurora australis. Aurora borealis occurs in the northern hemisphere, while aurora australis occurs in the southern hemisphere. Both are created by solar storms, which release a stream of charged particles into space.
These particles interact with the Earth’s magnetic field and are drawn towards the poles. When they enter the atmosphere, they collide with atoms and molecules, causing them to emit light.
Where can I see Northern Lights in Iceland?
If you want to see the northern lights in Iceland, there are a few things you need to know. First, the best time to see them is from September to April. Second, you need to be in a dark place with no light pollution. And third, you need to be in Iceland!
There are many tour companies that offer northern lights tours in Iceland. You can go on a tour in the south of Iceland or in the north of Iceland. Both have their pros and cons. South Iceland is closer to Reykjavik, so it’s more convenient if you’re staying in the city. North Iceland is darker and has less light pollution, so it’s better for seeing the northern lights.
Which tour company you choose depends on your budget and preferences. There are many great companies that offer both south and north tours.
The best time to see Northern Lights in Iceland
The best time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland is from September to April. The best place to see them is from the black sand beach at Reynisfjara. From this vantage point, you can see the Aurora Borealis dancing in the sky above the waves.
What month is best to see the northern lights in Iceland?
The best time to see the northern lights in Iceland is from September to March. This is because, during these months, the country is dark enough for the lights to be visible, but not so dark that they are constantly present.
Do the northern lights happen every night in Iceland?
No, the northern lights do not happen every night in Iceland. Actually, they are quite unpredictable and can only be seen when the weather conditions are just right. The best time to see the northern lights is from late September to early April, and even then, they are not guaranteed.
The best places to see the Northern Lights
Although the Northern Lights are visible throughout Iceland, there are a few places that offer particularly good viewing. One such place is Thingvellir National Park, where on clear nights you can see the lights reflecting off of the waters of Lake Thingvallavatn.
Another great spot for aurora-watching is Jokulsarlon, a glacial lagoon in southern Iceland. The best time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland is from late September to early April. However, your chances of seeing them are greatest around the equinoxes in March and September.
Best Northern Lights Tours
There’s nothing quite like seeing the Northern Lights in person. And there’s no better place to see them than in Iceland.
With its long winter nights and proximity to the Arctic Circle, Iceland is one of the best places in the world to see the aurora borealis. And with the solar maximum upon us, now is an ideal time to go.
There are a number of tour operators that offer Northern Lights tours in Iceland. Many of these tours take place in and around Reykjavik, but there are also tours that venture further afield into the Icelandic countryside.
So whether you’re looking for a short and sweet tour or an extended adventure, there’s sure to be a Northern Lights tour that’s right for you.
Best Northern lights tour operators
If you’re hoping to catch a glimpse of the elusive Northern Lights while in Iceland, your best bet is to go on a guided tour. While there are many reputable tour operators to choose from, we’ve compiled a list of the best ones to help make your decision a little easier.
First on our list is Gray Line Iceland. This company offers a variety of different Northern Lights tours, all of which depart from Reykjavik, the country’s capital. One of their most popular tours is the “Northern Lights by Night” tour, which takes you out into the Icelandic countryside away from the city lights for optimal viewing conditions.
Another great option is Aurora Reykjavik, which offers both bus and walking tours of the Northern Lights.
For those looking for a different experience, Aurora Tours offers Northern Lights boat tours in both Reykjavik and Akureyri.
If you’d rather go it alone, it is possible to drive out into the Icelandic countryside yourself to watch the Northern Lights.
Hunting Northern Lights by boat in Iceland
In Iceland, one of the best ways to see the Northern Lights is by boat. There are many companies that offer tours, and they typically run from September to April. The best time of year to see the lights is from late September to early October and from mid-March to late April.
The most popular place to see the Northern Lights in Iceland is Reykjavik, but they can also be seen in other parts of the country, such as Akureyri and Husavik. Tours typically last for two or three hours, and you can often find discounts if you book in advance.
The Northern Lights Season
Although the Northern Lights are visible throughout the year, aurora displays are more common during the spring equinox.
This is because the days are longer and the nights are shorter, which means that there is more time for aurora hunters to enjoy the light show. The best places to see the Northern Lights in Iceland are typically away from man-made lights and high up in elevation. The Northern Lights season brings thousands of visitors and tourists to Iceland.
Photographing the northern lights in the Icelandic Winter solstice
In order to see the Northern Lights in Iceland, you need clear skies and solar activity. The best time to see them is from September to mid-April when the nights are long and dark.
However, you can sometimes see them during the summer months if there is enough solar activity. The best places to see the Northern Lights are away from city lights, so try to find a spot that is dark and has a clear view of the sky.
As the Aurora borealis comes in you will definitely be able to get some great shots. The Aurora borealis are viewed from different angles and require some experience. It can sometimes be a good idea to use SLRs that use automatic focus for better results.
A tripod is a great accessory for long-release photos, shutter release for steady shooting and a spare battery or storage card. We advise disabling the Image stabiliser and increasing it to about 400 – 800 ISO.
Best shutter speed for Photographing the northern lights.
When it comes to shutter speed, the best way to photograph the northern lights is to use a long exposure. This will allow you to capture the movement of the aurora and produce some stunning results. However, you will need to use a tripod to keep your camera still during the long exposure.
It’s also important to remember that the northern lights are constantly changing, so you’ll need to be prepared to adjust your shutter speed accordingly. The best way to do this is to set up your camera in manual mode so that you have full control over the settings.
Helpful apps & tools for planning your aurora hunting
When planning your aurora hunting, there are a few helpful apps and tools that can make your experience more enjoyable. The first is the Aurora Forecast app, which provides up-to-date information on aurora activity in Iceland.
It is also useful for finding the best time and place to view the northern lights. Another helpful tool is the Icelandic Meteorological Office’s Aurora Alerts website, which sends out notifications when aurora activity is high. Finally, the Northern Lights Camera app allows you to take pictures of the northern lights and share them with others.
Do the northern lights happen every night in Iceland?
The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are a natural light display that can be seen in the night sky. They are usually visible in the northern hemisphere and can be seen in Iceland all year round. However, they are more common and intense during the winter months.
There are many factors that affect how often and how bright the Northern Lights will be. These include solar activity, cloud cover, and weather conditions. One of the best places to see the Northern Lights is at the Blue Lagoon. The lagoon is located in a geothermal area with very little light pollution.
Solar winds are responsible for the creation of the northern lights. These winds travel from the sun at high speeds and interact with the Earth’s magnetic field. The northern lights happen when these winds slow down and become trapped in the Earth’s atmosphere.
Iceland is an ideal place to see the northern lights because it is located in a remote location. This means that there is less light pollution, making it easier to see the aurora borealis. Additionally, Iceland has a northern lights forecast that can help you plan your trip.
Can you see Northern Lights In Iceland from Reykjavik?
Yes – The best time to see the Northern Lights in Reykjavik is from late September to early April. This is because Reykjavik is located just below the Arctic Circle, so during this time of year, the nights are long and dark.
The best place to see the Northern Lights in Reykjavik is from the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon. This is because the lagoon is located in a dark area away from city lights, and it has a wide-open view of the sky.
How much does it cost to see aurora borealis in Iceland?
Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights, is a natural light display that can be seen in the night sky. The best time to see them is from September to March and the best place to see them is in Iceland. The cost of seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland varies depending on how you want to experience them.
If you want to see the phenomena from the comfort of your own home, you can do so for free by downloading one of the many aurora apps available for phones and computers. These apps use data from NASA satellites to show you where and when auroras are happening in real-time.
If you want to see the Northern Lights in person, there are many tour companies that offer trips specifically for this purpose. These tours typically last between 3 and 5 hours and cost between $80 and $200 per person.
Aurora borealis arctic adventures
One of the best places to see the Aurora borealis is in Iceland. This beautiful country is known for its hot springs, which are perfect for relaxing after a long day of exploring.
The best time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland is from September to April when the nights are the longest. There are many different places to view the lights, but some of the best include Thingvellir National Park, Vatnajökull National Park, and Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon.
Can you see the Northern Lights without a camera?
In order to see the Northern Lights or Aurora Borealis, you don’t need a camera – but you will need to go to a remote location.
Do the Northern Lights In Iceland make noise?
The Northern Lights are truly a magical sight. And although they are silent and don’t make noise, they will leave you with a feeling of wonder and awe that will stay with you long after they are gone.
In order to see the Northern Lights in Iceland, it is best to go outside of the city. This is because the lights are more visible when there is less light pollution. It is also important to dress warmly, as it can get cold at night.
When you are ready to head out, make sure to find a spot with an open view of the sky. The Northern Lights can be unpredictable, so it is important to be patient and keep your eyes peeled. If you are using a camera, make sure to set it to manual focus so that you don’t miss a shot.
6 facts about the Northern Lights in Iceland
- The aurora borealis, are a natural phenomenon that can be seen in the night sky.
- They are created when charged particles from the sun interact with the earth’s atmosphere.
- The best time to see them is during the winter months when there is less daylight and more darkness.
- Iceland is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights, due to its high latitude and clear night skies.
- There are many tour companies that offer excursions to see the lights, which typically take place between September and April.
- Some of the best places to view them are Thingvellir National Park, Reykjavik, and Lake Myvatn.
The Northern Lights hunt
A fun option and will allow you to take things at your own pace and make some additional stops along the way if you’d like! Driving carefully is recommended since you’ll be driving on icy roads and in darkness during the wintertime.
You’ll also need to monitor the weather in Iceland. The Peak viewing season for the northern lights is always September through March when the nights are long in Iceland (during the winter solstice, darkness can extend for approximately 19 hours).
Even if you’re travelling to Iceland in the winter, be sure not to make the mistake of planning a hunt during a Full Moon, which can drown out the show. Arrive about five days before New Moon, and you will have a very dark week ahead, perfect for seeing the lights. However, there’s a good reason to go to Iceland close to one of the two equinoxes of the year.
Equinox means “equal night,” when there are conditions beforehand and see whether your chances are high with the Icelandic Met Office’s aurora forecast. The Met Office forecast gives you a rating, between 0 and 9, of your likelihood of seeing the aurora borealis. Anything above a 2 is promising. Here are some other tools for planning your northern lights hunt:
- Cloud Cover Forecast: Icelandic Met Office’s tool forecasts cloud cover to see whether you’ll have a clear night or whether you can stay in bed.
- SolarHam: commonly used by aurora hunters, this tool shows you a reliable 3-day geomagnetic forecast so you can plan your search.
- Aurora Forecast app: You’ll be mobile enough to move to where the forecast is most favorable, and the cloud cover is minimal. You won’t need to worry about driving in Iceland’s winter conditions. As a bonus, they take you to places and landscapes you might never see otherwise.
How do you chase the Northern Lights?
One of the most unforgettable and romantic experiences you can have is seeing the Northern Lights. Also called the Aurora Borealis, these natural lights are created when the earth’s magnetic field collides with particles from the sun.
The best time to see them is during the long, dark winter months from September to April.
Here are some tips on how to chase them:
- Check the weather forecast and plan accordingly. The Northern Lights are most visible when it’s dark and clear outside.
- Head to a location away from lights for optimal viewing. Iceland’s Vatnajökull National Park is a great option.
- Give yourself plenty of time to adjust to the darkness and cold. Once you’re in a good spot, sit back, relax and enjoy the show!
Why should you never sing at the Northern Lights?
When it comes to the Northern Lights in Iceland or aurora borealis, there are a few things you should know. For starters, you should never sing at them. Thought to be the souls of the dead, the Sámi believed you mustn’t talk about the aurora borealis.
It was also dangerous to tease them by waving, whistling or singing beneath them, as this would alert the lights to your presence. If you caught their attention, the lights could reach down and carry you up into the sky.
Northern lights hotels
If you’re planning a trip to Iceland to see the aurora borealis, you’ll want to choose a hotel that’s in a prime location for viewing the Aurora Borealis. The best time to see the Northern Lights is typically from late September to early April, so be sure to check the forecast before booking your trip.
There are many hotels located in areas with ideal conditions for seeing the Northern Lights. Some of the top hotels include Hotel Ranga in Hella, Hotel Hvolsvöllur, and Ion Adventure Hotel in Nesjavellir. These hotels are all located in areas with little light pollution, making them ideal for seeing the phenomena.
Hotel Ranga in Hella
Hotel Ranga in Hella is one of the best places to see the northern lights in Iceland. The hotel is located in a small town near Reykjavik, and it offers guests a unique opportunity to view the phenomena. The hotel has a special viewing deck where guests can watch the northern lights dance across the sky.
Hotel Hvolsvöllur
When it comes to seeing the Northern Lights, there is no better place than Hotel Hvolsv llur in Iceland. This hotel is located in the heart of the aurora viewing area and offers guests the perfect setting for an unforgettable experience.
The hotel has a special viewing platform where guests can sit back and enjoy the show. There are also plenty of amenities nearby, making it the perfect place to stay while you’re in town.
Ion Adventure Hotel in Nesjavellir
The best time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland is typically between September and April. However, late August can also be a good time to see them. The best place to see the Northern Lights in Iceland is in Nesjavellir, where there is little light pollution and you can often see them from your hotel room.
To get the best possible view of the Northern Lights, use a tripod and set your camera’s shutter speed to at least 10 seconds. This will allow you to capture the lights’ movement and create some stunning photos.
To get the best views of the Northern Lights in Iceland, it’s important to have a clear view of the sky. Be sure to ask about the hotel’s policy on outdoor lights before booking your stay.
Can I see Northern Lights with naked eyes?
Yes, the Northern Lights can be seen with naked eyes. However, to get the best view of them, it is recommended that you use manual settings on your camera. This will allow you to capture the light show in all its glory.
Are Northern Lights always green?
No, the Northern Lights can actually be a variety of colors, depending on what particles in the Earth’s atmosphere they interact with. The most common color is green, but red, yellow, and blue lights are also sometimes seen.
The reason for this is that the Earth’s magnetic field funnels charged particles from the sun towards the poles. These particles then interact with atoms in the atmosphere to create different colors of light. Green is by far the most common because it is produced by oxygen atoms at lower altitudes.
What is the rarest aurora color?
The Aurora Borealis, are one of nature’s most stunning displays. These dancing lights can be seen in the night sky all over the world, but they are especially popular in Iceland. The best time to see them is usually from September to April.
There are many different colors of auroras, but the rarest is red. Red auroras are caused by high-energy electrons colliding with oxygen atoms in the upper atmosphere. This collision creates a release of energy that is then converted into light. Red auroras are very difficult to photograph because they are often faint and only last for a few seconds.
Can you see Northern Lights in the USA?
Yes, the Northern Lights can be seen in the USA, but they are typically visible only in very remote locations with little to no light pollution. The further north you go, the more likely you are to see them.
In Alaska, (or seeing the Colorado Aurora Borealis) for example, it is a common sight. To photograph them, you’ll need a DSLR camera with a high ISO setting (3200 or higher) and a fast lens (f/2.8 or faster). A tripod is also recommended to keep your camera steady while taking long exposures.
Guided Northern Lights In Iceland tours
There are many guided tours available in Iceland. These tours typically take place in the evening, when the lights are most visible. Tours typically last 2-3 hours and include stops at various vantage points where you can take in the beauty of the lights. Those with limited time in Iceland often opt to join a guided northern lights tour.
What is the best month to go to Iceland?
There is no definitive answer to the question of when is the best month to see Iceland’s magical aurora borealis.
The lights are visible from late August to early April, with peak activity from late September to late March. However, factors such as weather, daylight hours, and solar activity can all affect how visible the lights are. In general, the further north you go in Iceland, the better your chances of seeing the phenomena. The lights are also more often visible on clear nights with no moonlight.
So, if you’re planning a trip specifically to see the phenomena, your best bet is to plan it for a time when there is less daylight (so that there are more hours of darkness), and when there is a low chance of clouds or other weather conditions interfering with your view.
What are the earth’s magnetic poles?
Reykjavik, the capital city of Iceland, is a great place to see the solar storm. The best time to see them is from late September to early April when the nights are long and dark.
The Northern Lights are caused by charged particles from the sun interacting with the earth’s magnetic field. The earth has two magnetic poles – the North Pole and the South Pole. These poles are where the earth’s magnetic field is strongest.
When the sun’s particles interact with the earth’s magnetic field, they cause a glowing effect in the sky. This effect is most often seen in areas near the Magnetic Poles.
