When is the best time to see the Northern Lights?

Dreaming of seeing the northern lights? Find out when’s the best time to see them.

Seeing the Aurora Borealis is one of the world’s most amazing travel experiences. And, Iceland is one of the best places to see the famous light show, especially if you don’t want to go as far as northern Sweden or Lofoten Island in Norway. As you’d expect, dark, clear skies contribute to a Northern Lights sighting, so September to mid-April is the best time to plan your trip and make the most of those long, dark nights. Read on for more details…

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Where’s best to see the Northern Lights?

Northern Europe is the best place to see the Northern Lights. Night-time here will give you the best view of the lights. If you want to merge Northern Light searching with a romantic getaway, head to Iceland. You’ve got thermal pools, like the Blue Lagoon, mud baths and cosy cabins to snuggle up in at the end of the day. Or if you want to pack in some more natural sights, head to Norway and tick off the Fjords, too. Travelling with kids? Finland is our top choice – it’s the home of Father Christmas, after all! So, you can combine seeing the Northern Lights with a trip to Santa Claus village.

Check out more top things to do in Iceland.

What’s the best month to spot the northern lights?

The winter months in northern Europe bring deliciously dark skies and long nights – the perfect conditions to spot the Northern Lights. You’ll also need clear skies and minimal light pollution, which means heading away from the city. September to mid-April is the best time to catch conditions like these with up to 19 hours of darkness in places like Norway.

What does the timing depend on?

Timing’s always important when it comes to natural sightings and the Northern Lights are no different. Their intensity depends on what stage we’re at in the sun’s Solar Cycle, which charts the 11-year phase of the sun’s activity and appearance. Right now, we’re in Solar Cycle 25, which began in December 2019. And according to NASA, Solar Cycle 25 has peaked which means we’ll have even more chances to spot the Northern lights in 2025 and 2026.

What’s the best way to see the northern lights?

How you see the Northern Lights is up to you. If you want a low-effort option, choose a hotel in an out-of-the-way spot and just look up at the night sky. Or opt for a glass igloo and watch the light show from the comfort of a cosy bed.

Our three and four-night Iceland holidays include a northern lights excursion, so you don’t need to worry about organising a trip yourself. As sightings are weather-dependent, we do all the legwork and figure out the best timings and places to spot them. Plus, we’ll take you on a repeat trip if you don’t see them the first time. The tour is on your first night, and you’ll be picked up from the hotel at around 9pm. The coach will drive about an hour outside the city to get away from any light pollution, and you might go to a few different spots to get the best sightings – half the fun of seeing the Northern Lights is the chase anyway.

You’ll also need to be prepared for very chilly temps as clear weather in northern Europe usually means temperatures below freezing. You’re likely to spend a fair amount of time outside looking for the lights so make sure to wrap up. We’re talking layers, hoods, hats and scarves. And don’t forget your touchscreen gloves – you’ll want to snap those iconic northern light shots.

Ready to see the lights?

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Plus, check out the best things to see in Iceland and make sure you’re clued up on the best time to visit Iceland.

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Author: Carla Fabian

Last updated: 14.11.2024