Northern Lights Iceland Tours | 5 Essential Things to Know
What causes the Northern Lights?
The Northern Lights are caused by charged particles from the sun interacting with the Earth’s magnetic field and atmosphere. This collision results in the emission of colored lights, typically green, blue, or red.
Best time to visit Northern Lights hotspotsThe best time to visit Northern Lights hotspots in Iceland is between September and March when the nights are dark enough to view the spectacle. Peak season is usually from September to March, with the highest probability of clear skies and intense solar activity.
Where to see the Northern LightsThe Northern Lights can be seen in the Northern Hemisphere, primarily at high latitudes. Popular destinations include:
– Iceland (ideal for Northern Lights tours Iceland)
– Russia ( Murmansk, Naryan-Mar, Salekhard, Arkhangelsk, Taimyr Peninsula, Kirovsk, Petrozavodsk, Vorkuta)
– Norway (Tromsø, Senja Island, and the Lofoten Islands)
– Alaska (Fairbanks and Anchorage)
– Canada (Yellowknife, Whitehorse, and Churchill)
– Sweden (Abisko National Park and Kiruna)
– Finland (Lapland)
How to increase your chances of seeing the Northern Lights
To maximize your chances of witnessing this natural wonder on your Northern Lights tour in Iceland:
– Travel during peak season (September to March)
– Head to locations with minimal light pollution
– Check aurora forecasts and try to go on nights with high activity
– Be patient and prepared to stay up late (or wake up early!)
Tips for capturing stunning Northern Lights photos
To capture breathtaking photos of the Northern Lights on your Northern Lights tour from Reykjavik:
– Use a tripod and camera with manual settings
– Set your camera to a wide-angle lens and low ISO
– Shoot in RAW format to capture maximum detail
– Experiment with different exposures and compositions
Remember, the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, and sightings can’t be guaranteed. However, by understanding these essential factors, you’ll be well-prepared for an unforgettable experience on your Northern Lights Iceland tour. Happy aurora hunting!
I am an experienced tour guide and operator in Iceland, with over 15 years of dedicated service. For the newest updates, check out our blog and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and subscribe to our YouTube channel