Is cloudy weather in Iceland a problem for Northern Lights tours?
Clouds are a major issue when it comes to seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland. But at Enjoy Iceland Tours we have designed our trips to fit in with the weather which is very changeable there and in that way we give you the best chance.
The Challenge of Clouds
The Northern Lights are a spectacle which can only be seen on nights of clear sky.
We have had reports of thick clouds which completely dim their light.
Iceland is known for its fickle weather which at times may improve right before your eyes.
What you may be dealing with as overcast in Reykjavík may at the same time be very well lit skies just a short drive away.
That’s what we at Enjoy Iceland Tours are here to help with.
How We Outsmart the Weather
Our guides are using:
Live satellite data
Weather maps
Aurora forecasts
to determine where we go each night.
We do not follow set itineraries — our tours change based on real time information. That is what gives us a higher success rate than most which run set bus tours.
Partial Cloud Magic
On some nights which have a partial cloud cover you may still see the aurora through the gaps which is a great setting for dramatic photos with ever changing light and cloud backgrounds.
Also some travelers report that at times the atmosphere is even better in partial vs total clearance of the skies.
Heavy Cloud Options
In which case of heavy cloud we either:
Put your trip out and re do it under our Northern Lights Guarantee Policy
Or we put you in to do something else.
That way your trip will never come to an empty end.
Finding Weather Windows
Cloud coverage is what some may report against but with our professional team and the versatility of our smaller vehicles we usually come across what we call “windows” of perfect weather that other times go by unnoticeable.
We also see many of our guests’ surprise when we in fact end up at that ideal spot which the forecast didn’t quite predict.
Final Note
When you book with Enjoy Iceland Tours you don’t leave it up to chance — you are putting your trust in professionals that know how to outsmart Iceland’s weatherPlanning a trip to Iceland can feel overwhelming. From the best time to see the Northern Lights, to whether the Blue Lagoon is included in tours, to how to prepare for Iceland’s ever-changing weather, travelers often have many questions before booking.
At Enjoy Iceland Tours, we’ve guided thousands of visitors on unforgettable journeys— from luxury private airport transfers to Northern Lights adventures, Blue Ice Cave explorations, and Golden Circle tours. Along the way, we’ve learned exactly what travelers want to know most.
This Iceland Tours FAQ page is your one-stop guide to planning smarter. We’ve organized answers into categories covering:
- General questions about traveling in Iceland
- What to expect on our Northern Lights tours
- Visiting the Blue Lagoon and other iconic landmarks
- Tour booking, payments, and cancellation policies
- Practical travel tips for different seasons
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or planning your second adventure, our FAQs will help you prepare with confidence. And if your question isn’t answered here, you can always click Contact Us Now for direct support—or secure your spot instantly with Book Now.