Northern Lights Hotels in Iceland

Iceland is one of the world’s best destinations for witnessing the elusive and magical northern lights, or aurora borealis. But knowing exactly when and where to find the aurora isn't always the easiest. To maximize your chances, consider staying at northern lights hotels in Iceland, which are specially located and designed for aurora viewing.

Aurora hotels are often located in remote areas with minimal light pollution and may offer special features like large panoramic windows, wake-up calls when the lights appear, and even outdoor hot tubs for a comfortable viewing experience.

You can find northern lights hotels in almost every region of Iceland, from the South Coast and Golden Circle to North Iceland and the Eastfjords.

Top 10 Best Northern Lights Hotels in Iceland

There are various hotels to choose from when it comes to spotting the northern lights, each offering unique features and prime locations. Here are some of the best northern lights hotels in Iceland for an amazing stay:

1. Hotel Ranga – Iceland’s best-known northern lights hotel, with luxury suites, outdoor hot tubs, and an aurora alert system in a remote South Iceland setting.

2. Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon – A sleek South Coast hotel between Skaftafell and Jokulsarlon, with modern design and great aurora visibility over dramatic nature.

3. Black Beach Suites – Private suites near Reynisfjara with kitchens, sweeping ocean views, and dark skies that are perfect for northern lights watching.

4. Umi Hotel – Boutique South Coast stay, blending contemporary style, fine dining, and superb aurora views from secluded surroundings.

5. Vogafjos Guesthouse – Rustic guesthouse by Lake Myvatn in North Iceland, combining farm charm with excellent conditions for watching the northern lights.

6. Hotel Laxa – Modern hotel near Lake Myvatn with stylish rooms, quiet surroundings, and reliable opportunities for aurora spotting.

7. Siglo Hotel – Scenic fjordside retreat in Siglufjordur with inviting hot tubs and some of the North’s most memorable aurora displays.

8. Hotel Husafell – Sustainable West Iceland escape with geothermal pools, glacier views, and superb visibility for northern lights watching.

9. ION Adventure Hotel – Striking Golden Circle property known for eco-luxury, spa facilities, and dramatic panoramas lit by the aurora borealis.

10. Silica Hotel at Blue Lagoon – Luxury retreat with private Blue Lagoon access and the rare chance to see the aurora shimmer above volcanic lava fields.

If you’d like a more detailed comparison, you can also check out our extended guide to the top northern lights hotels in Iceland.

Other Tips for Spotting the Northern Lights

The best time to see the northern lights in Iceland is between September and April, when the nights are long and dark. In 2025, the sun is reaching a solar maximum, which means stronger solar activity and brighter auroras. This makes 2025 and 2026 especially exciting years to visit Iceland for northern lights hunting.

Beyond staying in accommodation away from light pollution, here are some additional tips for northern lights hunting in Iceland:

• Iceland's aurora forecast – Check daily aurora activity for a Kp index of 2 or more to know when conditions are most promising.

• Weather conditions & cloud coverage – Clear skies are essential, so always monitor the latest weather updates before heading out.

• What to wear in Iceland – Dress in warm layers, insulated outerwear, and sturdy boots to stay comfortable while waiting outdoors.

• Northern lights tours – If you're based in Reykjavik, join guided tours that take you beyond city lights to the best aurora-viewing spots.

• Rent a car – For flexibility, rent a car and drive to darker, less crowded locations when the aurora forecast looks good.

Always remember that patience is key when aurora hunting. Sometimes, the northern lights take time to appear, so be prepared to wait and enjoy the starry sky in the meantime.

Why Stay at An Aurora Hotel?

Northern lights hotels in Iceland provide more than just accommodation; they’re gateways to some of the most incredible experiences Iceland has to offer. Whether you opt for the luxury of Hotel Ranga or the modern elegance of Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon, these hotels ensure a magical stay under Iceland’s dazzling night skies.