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The northern lights, or aurora borealis, are a natural phenomenon that occurs at high latitudes when solar particles collide with the Earth's atmosphere, creating colorful, waving ribbons of light in the night sky. The aurora borealis is only visible during the darker winter nights, which is why northern lights hunting is one of the most popular winter activities in Iceland!
2025 is expected to be a great year for viewing the northern lights in Iceland, as the sun is currently experiencing a solar maximum. The period of increased solar activity may lead to more frequent and vibrant northern light displays!
The aurora borealis can be seen all across Iceland as long as the sky is clear and there's minimal light pollution. While many travelers choose guided tours for convenience and expert insights, you don’t have to book a tour to experience this magical phenomenon.
If you’re traveling independently, you can use tools like the Icelandic northern lights forecast or Norwegian aurora forecast to see the estimated solar activity. Also, check the cloud cover forecast before heading out. Look for areas away from city lights, such as Thingvellir National Park or the Reykjanes peninsula, and be prepared to wait patiently.
On nights with very strong activity, the auroras borealis can even be visible from Reykjavik. Consider finding a dark spot in the city, like the Grotta nature reserve or in public parks, to improve your chances.
All tours to see the northern lights in Iceland rely on aurora forecasts to determine the best viewing spots. These tools allow guides to adapt the itinerary, taking travelers to areas with the highest likelihood of activity.
Whether on your own or with a tour, dressing warmly and staying optimistic is key to making the most of this unforgettable experience.
Choosing the right northern lights tour can elevate your Iceland adventure. From the affordability of group bus tours to the exclusivity of private outings, there’s a tour option for every traveler. Below, learn about each northern lights tour type to help you find the experience best suited to you.
Bus tours are the most popular way to experience the northern lights in Iceland because they are affordable and very hassle-free. These group tours pick you up from central locations or even your accommodation, making them easy to join. They travel to rural areas with minimal light pollution, usually lasting 3–4 hours, and include a guide that provides information about the auroras and Icelandic folklore.
The Northern Lights Tour from Reykjavik - This highly-rated tour picks you up in Reykjavik and brings you to the best viewing spots outside the city.
Northern Lights Bus Tour from Reykjavik - See the northern lights with pickup from the capital, and you can add a visit to the Aurora Museum in Reykjavik.
Northern Lights Tour with an Audio Guide - Witness the aurora from Reykjavik with a convenient audio guide, available in 10 languages!
For a more personal touch, small group tours cater to fewer participants, offering a quieter and more relaxed experience. Private tours are perfect for those looking to craft a customized itinerary, as they allow you to choose your departure time and specific viewing locations. Both options are great for avoiding crowds and enjoying a more tailored adventure under the northern lights.
Northern Lights Tour With Free Photos & Refreshments - Enjoy an easy pick-up from Reykjavik and travel with a small group on this top-rated tour. It includes photos of you with the aurora and hot drinks and snacks for the journey!
Magical 4-Hour Northern Lights Minibus Tour - Head out to great viewing spots with pickup from Reykjavik in a small-group setting. Capture the aurora with help from your guide and enjoy hot chocolate and snacks to warm up!
5-Hour Northern Lights & Stargazing Tour with Pictures - See the northern lights from Reykjavik and enjoy stargazing with a telescope. It includes photos and hot chocolate!
Private & Personalized 3-Hour Northern Lights Hunt - Witness the aurora in complete privacy with this personalized tour from Reykjavik.
Super Jeep tours add an element of adventure to your northern lights hunt in Iceland. These off-road vehicles are designed to handle Iceland’s rugged terrain, taking you to secluded areas regular buses can't access, where the skies are exceptionally dark. Guides often share stories about Iceland’s geology and nature along the way. These tours are ideal for thrill-seekers or those looking for a more exclusive and remote experience.
The Northern Lights Super Jeep Tour with Free Photos - Take a thrilling ride in a Super Jeep to see the aurora in more remote locations. This top-rated tour has Reykjavik pick-up and includes free photos.
4-Hour Northern Lights Super Jeep Tour - Head out into nature with a guide who can help you capture photos of the aurora. It includes snacks and hot drinks and departs from Reykjavik.
Comfortable 4-Hour Northern Lights Hunt in a Super Jeep - Travel comfortably to see the northern lights in a Super Jeep from Reykjavik. The tour includes photos, hot drinks, and snacks.
Viewing the auroras from the sea offers a tranquil and unique perspective. Boat tours typically depart from Reykjavik harbor and take you out onto Faxafloi bay. The absence of city lights enhances the visibility of the auroras, and boats are generally equipped with indoor seating and outdoor viewing decks.
Magical 2-Hour Northern Lights Boat Cruise - Enjoy a top-rated boat ride from Reykjavik harbor, admiring the city coastline and seeing the aurora borealis from the ocean.
Amazing 2-Hour Northern Lights Cruise - This popular tour departs from Reykjavik harbor and includes a warm drink.
Comfortable 2 Hour Northern Lights Boat Tour - Sail from Reykjavik on a triple observation deck boat with panoramic views to see the aurora.
Multi-day tours combine northern lights hunting with an in-depth exploration of Iceland’s landscapes. These tours can range from 2 to 10 days and can include activities like exploring ice caves, glacier hikes, visits to hot springs, and seeing famous sites like Seljalandsfoss waterfall and Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon. Accommodation and transportation are included, making these tours a hassle-free way to experience Iceland with a focus on the northern lights.
8-Day Guided Winter Northern Lights Tour of the Complete Ring Road - This top-rated tour brings you to all the major sights around the Ring Road of Iceland, driven by an expert guide. Enjoy top activities during the day and hunt for the northern lights in the evening!
3-Day Northern Lights & Ice Cave Tour to the Golden Circle, South Coast - Let an experienced guide take care of driving in winter and explore the Golden Circle route and the South Coast, going all the way to the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon. You'll also visit a crystal blue ice cave!
2-Day Ice Cave & South Coast Trip to Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon - A professional guide will bring you to the main South Coast sights. This includes the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, where you'll see an incredible winter ice cave in the Vatnajokull glacier.
Seeing the northern lights is an incredible experience, but it’s important to remember they are a natural phenomenon that depends on solar activity and weather conditions. This means that sightings can never be guaranteed.
Many northern lights tour operators in Iceland offer a "free retry" policy, allowing you to join another tour at a later date if no auroras are visible during your first try. This is why we highly recommend taking northern lights tours early during a trip to Iceland, as this gives you the option to try again on a different night if needed.
Patience and flexibility are key when hunting for the aurora. You'll usually have to wait for the lights to appear, so it’s important to dress warmly with layers, hats, gloves, wool socks, and sturdy shoes. Some tours also provide hot drinks like tea or hot chocolate to keep you comfortable while you wait!
With preparation and a bit of luck, hunting for the northern lights in Iceland can be an unforgettable adventure. This natural phenomenon has amazed humans for centuries, and with the right conditions, you can see the aurora dancing in the sky. Hunt for them on your own or join a tour to reach the best viewing spots with expert guides.
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