Best spots to see the aurora
Feb 10, 2025
Here is a ranked list of the best aurora borealis (northern lights) viewing locations based on aurora visibility rate, weather conditions, and light pollution levels.
1. Yellowknife, Canada
Aurora Visibility Rate: ~90% (240+ nights per year)
Temperature in peak season (Sept-April): 5°C to -30°C
Yellowknife, the capital of Canada’s Northwest Territories, is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. It has a 240+ nights per year aurora visibility rate, making it an ideal destination for aurora chasers.
Why is Yellowknife Perfect for Aurora Viewing?
1️. Located Directly Under the Auroral Oval → Ensures frequent and intense aurora displays.
2️. Minimal Light Pollution → The surrounding wilderness offers clear, dark skies.
3️. Consistently Clear Skies → More cloud-free nights compared to many other aurora destinations.
4️. Flat, Open Landscape → Provides wide, unobstructed views of the sky.
5️. Indigenous Cultural Experiences → Combine aurora hunting with First Nations traditions.
Best Time to See the Aurora in Yellowknife
Season |
Aurora Visibility |
Pros |
Cons |
---|---|---|---|
Mid-August – September |
☆☆☆☆ (High) |
Mild temperatures, reflection on lakes |
Some nights may still be short |
October – November |
☆☆☆☆☆(Very High) |
Peak season, crisp air |
Some cloudy nights |
December – February |
☆☆☆☆☆(Very High) |
Long, dark nights, perfect for aurora |
Very cold (-30°C/-22°F) |
March – April |
☆☆☆☆☆(Very High) |
Warmer weather, best snow activities |
Season ending |
Best Months: Mid-August to April (peak months: November to March).
Best Viewing Time: 10:00 PM – 3:00 AM.
Where to Stay – Best Aurora Lodges & Hotels
Aurora Village ★★★★★
A top-rated indigenous-owned aurora lodge with teepees, heated seats, and hot drinks.
Offers dog sledding, snowshoeing, and cultural experiences.
Blachford Lake Lodge ★★★★★
Remote luxury wilderness lodge → No light pollution, pure nature.
Stay in cabins or igloos, accessible only by ski plane.
The Explorer Hotel ★★★★☆
Best downtown option, with warm, comfortable rooms.
Great for those wanting easy access to restaurants & shops.
Chateau Nova Yellowknife ★★★★☆
Good mid-range option, located close to Frame Lake, a great aurora spot.
Best Aurora Viewing Spots in Yellowknife
1. Aurora Village → Best organized tour spot with heated seats & teepees.
2. Vee Lake → A local favorite, 15 minutes from the city, clear horizon.
3. Prelude Lake Territorial Park → Beautiful aurora reflections on the frozen lake.
4. Pilots Monument → A hilltop lookout with a panoramic view over the city.
5. Blachford Lake Lodge → Ultimate off-grid experience, deep in nature.
Best Aurora Tour Operators in Yellowknife
Tour Company |
Features |
Duration |
Price Range |
---|---|---|---|
Aurora Village |
Heated seats, teepees, cultural experience |
4-5 hrs |
$$ – $$$ |
North Star Adventures |
Indigenous guides, night photography |
4-5 hrs |
$$ – $$$ |
Yellowknife Tours |
Private/group tours, multilingual guides |
3-4 hrs |
$$ |
Bucket List Tours |
Remote cabin experience, hot drinks |
3-5 hrs |
$$ – $$$ |
Most tours include hotel pickup, warm drinks, and photography assistance.
What Else to Do in Yellowknife?
Dog Sledding – Race through snowy landscapes with huskies.
Snowmobiling & Ice Road Driving – Explore the famous frozen highways.
Visit the Ice Caves – Stunning icy formations outside the city.
Learn Indigenous Culture – Meet Dene First Nations people and hear their aurora legends.
Old Town Yellowknife – Explore historic log cabins, art galleries, and cozy cafés.
Final Tips for Aurora Viewing in Yellowknife
Check Aurora Forecasts → Websites like Aurora Watch, NOAA Space Weather.
Dress VERY Warmly → Temperatures can drop to -30°C (-22°F) in winter!
Avoid Light Pollution → Stay outside the city for best visibility.
Be Patient → Auroras can appear at any time between 10 PM – 3 AM.
Bring a Camera & Tripod → Capture long-exposure shots of the Northern Lights.
How to Get to Yellowknife?
By Air:
Direct flights from: Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton.
Airlines: Air Canada, WestJet, Air North, First Air.
By Road:
Drive from Edmonton (~16 hours), but winter driving can be challenging.
Summary – Why Choose Yellowknife?
240+ nights of auroras per year.
Crystal-clear skies & little light pollution.
Indigenous cultural experiences & remote wilderness.
Luxury lodges, teepees, and heated seats for comfort.
2. Fairbanks, Alaska, USA
Aurora Visibility Rate: ~85% (243+ nights per year)
Temperature in peak season (Sept-April): 5°C to -30°C
Fairbanks, Alaska, is one of the best places in the world to witness the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) due to its location under the Auroral Oval, a region where auroras are most active. With frequent clear skies and minimal light pollution, the city offers an 80% chance of seeing the Northern Lights if you stay for at least three nights.
Best Time to See the Northern Lights
- Aurora Season: Late August to mid-April
- Peak Months: September to March (longer nights, higher chances)
- Best Viewing Hours: 10:00 PM – 3:00 AM (midnight is the most active period)
- Weather Conditions: Clear skies with minimal cloud cover offer the best visibility
Best Aurora Viewing Locations
1. Murphy Dome
A high-elevation area with a 360-degree panoramic view
No light pollution, but winter roads can be challenging (4WD recommended)
2. Chena Hot Springs Resort
Famous for its hot springs + aurora experience
About 60 miles (97 km) from Fairbanks
Offers guided Northern Lights tours
3. Creamer’s Field
A wildlife refuge near downtown Fairbanks, convenient for visitors
A good alternative if you don’t want to travel far
4. Aurora Pointe
A private aurora viewing facility with a warm indoor area
Offers a guided experience with photography assistance
Guided Tour vs. Self-Drive
-
Guided Aurora Tours (Recommended for first-time visitors)
- Local guides take you to the best viewing spots
- Includes transportation, warm drinks, and expert photography tips
- Cost: $100 – $200 per person
-
Self-Drive Adventure (For experienced travelers)
- More flexibility in choosing locations
- Must rent an AWD/4WD vehicle for winter road conditions
- Essential gear: Warm clothes, blankets, hot drinks, flashlight
Guided Aurora Tours (Recommended for first-time visitors)
- Local guides take you to the best viewing spots
- Includes transportation, warm drinks, and expert photography tips
- Cost: $100 – $200 per person
Self-Drive Adventure (For experienced travelers)
- More flexibility in choosing locations
- Must rent an AWD/4WD vehicle for winter road conditions
- Essential gear: Warm clothes, blankets, hot drinks, flashlight
Aurora Photography Tips
Use a DSLR/Mirrorless Camera (Sony, Canon, Nikon)
Manual Mode (M) with a wide aperture (f/2.8 or lower)
ISO 1600 – 3200 (depending on brightness)
Shutter Speed: 5-20 sec (adjust based on aurora movement)
Tripod & Remote Shutter to avoid camera shake
Where to Stay – Best Aurora Hotels
-
Borealis Basecamp (Glass Igloos)
- Unique glass-roof domes allow you to watch the aurora from bed
- Price: $500+ per night
-
Chena Hot Springs Resort
- Hot springs + aurora combo
- Price: $250+ per night
-
Pike’s Waterfront Lodge
- Comfortable stay with aurora wake-up service
- Price: $150+ per night
Borealis Basecamp (Glass Igloos)
- Unique glass-roof domes allow you to watch the aurora from bed
- Price: $500+ per night
Chena Hot Springs Resort
- Hot springs + aurora combo
- Price: $250+ per night
Pike’s Waterfront Lodge
- Comfortable stay with aurora wake-up service
- Price: $150+ per night
4-Day Itinerary for Aurora Viewing
Day 1 – Arrive in Fairbanks, explore the city, adjust to the cold
Day 2 – Join a Northern Lights tour (or self-drive to Murphy Dome)
Day 3 – Visit Chena Hot Springs, relax in the thermal pools, and watch the aurora
Day 4 – Optional Arctic Circle trip before departure
Other Winter Activities
1. Dog Sledding (Alaskan huskies ride through the snow)
2. Reindeer Encounter (Visit Running Reindeer Ranch)
3. Ice Fishing
4. Snowmobiling & Snowshoeing
5. Visit the Aurora Ice Museum (Amazing ice sculptures & ice bar)
How to Get There
- By Air: Fly into Fairbanks International Airport (FAI)
- Alaska Airlines and other major airlines serve the city
- By Car: Rent a 4WD/AWD vehicle for winter driving
- Alaska Airlines and other major airlines serve the city
Essential Winter Tips
Wear Proper Cold-Weather Gear: Down jackets, thermal layers, snow boots, gloves, and hats
Check the Aurora Forecast: Websites like Aurora Forecast or apps like My Aurora Forecast help predict activity
Prevent Camera Lens Fogging: Keep your camera in a sealed bag before bringing it indoors
With its high aurora visibility, Fairbanks is one of the best places in the world to chase the Northern Lights! If you spend at least 3 nights in the city, you have a very high chance of seeing the magical auroras dancing in the Alaskan sky.
3. Tromsø, Norway
Aurora Visibility Rate: ~80% (200+ nights per year)
Temperature in peak season (Sept-March): -5°C to 5°C
Tromsø, Norway – Aurora Viewing Guide
Tromsø, known as the “Gateway to the Arctic,” is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). Located above the Arctic Circle, it offers breathtaking aurora displays, stunning Arctic landscapes, and a variety of winter activities.
Best Time to See the Northern Lights
- Aurora Season: September to April
- Peak Months: November to February (longest nights, best chances)
- Best Viewing Hours: 6:00 PM – 2:00 AM (usually strongest around midnight)
- Weather Conditions: Cold but coastal, meaning milder winters than inland Norway
Aurora Forecast Tools:
- Norwegian Meteorological Institute (Yr.no)
- Aurora Forecast Apps (My Aurora Forecast, Aurora Alerts)
Best Aurora Viewing Locations in Tromsø
-
Prestvannet Lake
- Only a short drive or walk from Tromsø city center
- A popular local spot with little light pollution
-
Ersfjordbotn
- A fjord just 20 km from Tromsø with stunning Arctic scenery
- A great place for aurora reflections on the water
-
Sommarøy
- A small island outside Tromsø with open skies and great views
- Less crowded than city locations
-
Tromsø Wilderness Camps
- Guided Aurora Camps in remote locations for maximum visibility
- Often include campfires, Sami storytelling, and photography tips
-
Lyngen Alps
- A bit farther from the city, but offers dramatic mountain views under the aurora
Prestvannet Lake
- Only a short drive or walk from Tromsø city center
- A popular local spot with little light pollution
Ersfjordbotn
- A fjord just 20 km from Tromsø with stunning Arctic scenery
- A great place for aurora reflections on the water
Sommarøy
- A small island outside Tromsø with open skies and great views
- Less crowded than city locations
Tromsø Wilderness Camps
- Guided Aurora Camps in remote locations for maximum visibility
- Often include campfires, Sami storytelling, and photography tips
Lyngen Alps
- A bit farther from the city, but offers dramatic mountain views under the aurora
Guided Tour vs. Self-Drive
-
Guided Aurora Tours (Best for first-time visitors)
- Professional guides take you to the best spots based on weather conditions
- Includes transport, warm clothes, hot drinks, and expert photography assistance
- Cost: $120 – $250 per person
- Examples:
- Chasing Lights Tromsø (highly rated)
- Tromsø Safari
-
Self-Drive Aurora Chase (For experienced travelers)
- More flexibility to explore on your own
- 4WD/AWD car recommended due to snowy roads
- Essential gear: Thermal wear, blankets, hot drinks, flashlight
Guided Aurora Tours (Best for first-time visitors)
- Professional guides take you to the best spots based on weather conditions
- Includes transport, warm clothes, hot drinks, and expert photography assistance
- Cost: $120 – $250 per person
- Examples:
- Chasing Lights Tromsø (highly rated)
- Tromsø Safari
Self-Drive Aurora Chase (For experienced travelers)
- More flexibility to explore on your own
- 4WD/AWD car recommended due to snowy roads
- Essential gear: Thermal wear, blankets, hot drinks, flashlight
Northern Lights Photography Tips
Use a DSLR/Mirrorless Camera (Sony, Canon, Nikon)
Manual Mode (M) with a wide aperture (f/2.8 or lower)
ISO 1600 – 3200 (depending on aurora brightness)
Shutter Speed: 5-20 sec (adjust based on aurora activity)
Tripod & Remote Shutter for stability
Best Places to Stay for Aurora Viewing
-
Camp Tamok – Wilderness Lodge
- Offers private cabins & aurora safaris
- Perfect for a secluded experience
-
Tromsø Ice Domes
- Unique ice hotel stay with aurora excursions
- Best for those seeking a one-of-a-kind Arctic experience
-
Sommarøy Arctic Hotel
- Located outside the city for better aurora visibility
- Great for combining nature, ocean views, and the Northern Lights
-
Scandic Ishavshotel
- A luxury option in Tromsø city center
- Offers aurora wake-up calls
Camp Tamok – Wilderness Lodge
- Offers private cabins & aurora safaris
- Perfect for a secluded experience
Tromsø Ice Domes
- Unique ice hotel stay with aurora excursions
- Best for those seeking a one-of-a-kind Arctic experience
Sommarøy Arctic Hotel
- Located outside the city for better aurora visibility
- Great for combining nature, ocean views, and the Northern Lights
Scandic Ishavshotel
- A luxury option in Tromsø city center
- Offers aurora wake-up calls
4-Day Tromsø Aurora Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrive in Tromsø, explore the city, visit the Arctic Cathedral
Day 2 – Join an aurora chase tour or self-drive to Ersfjordbotn
Day 3 – Go dog sledding or reindeer sledding, then visit an aurora camp
Day 4 – Optional whale watching tour or Sami cultural experience
Other Winter Activities in Tromsø
Dog Sledding (Ride through snowy landscapes with huskies)
Reindeer Sledding & Sami Culture (Learn about Indigenous Arctic traditions)
Whale Watching (See orcas and humpback whales from November to January)
Snowmobiling (Explore the Arctic wilderness)
Fjords & Wildlife Tours (Spectacular Arctic landscapes)
How to Get to Tromsø
- By Air: Fly into Tromsø Airport (TOS)
- Direct flights from Oslo, London, Frankfurt, and more
- By Car: Rent an AWD/4WD vehicle for winter driving
- By Bus/Tour: Many tours provide pick-up & drop-off services
- Direct flights from Oslo, London, Frankfurt, and more
Essential Winter Tips
Dress in Layers: Thermal base layer, fleece, insulated jacket, gloves, hat, and waterproof boots
Check the Weather & Aurora Forecast before heading out
Prevent Camera Lens Fogging: Keep your camera inside a sealed bag before bringing it indoors
With its long winter nights, clear Arctic air, and stunning landscapes, Tromsø is one of the world’s top destinations for Northern Lights viewing. If you stay for at least 3-4 nights, your chances of seeing the aurora are extremely high!
4. Lapland, Finland
Aurora Visibility Rate: ~75% (200+ nights per year)
Temperature in peak season (Sept-March): -5°C to -30°C
Lapland, Finland – Aurora Viewing Guide
Lapland, Finland, is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). Located in the Arctic Circle, it offers high aurora activity, stunning snowy landscapes, and unique experiences such as glass igloo hotels, husky safaris, and reindeer sleigh rides. The region’s low light pollution and long winter nights make it a perfect aurora destination.
Best Time to See the Northern Lights
- Aurora Season: Late August to early April
- Peak Months: September – March (longer nights, higher chances)
- Best Viewing Hours: 10:00 PM – 2:00 AM (midnight is usually the most active)
- Weather Conditions: Cold but dry (average -10°C to -30°C in winter)
Aurora Forecast Tools:
- Aurora Service Europe
- Finnish Meteorological Institute (FMI)
Best Aurora Viewing Locations in Lapland
-
Rovaniemi – The “Official Hometown of Santa Claus”
- Easily accessible by air/train
- Good base for aurora tours, glass igloos, and winter activities
-
Saariselkä & Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort
- Famous for glass igloo hotels where you can watch the aurora from your bed
- Located in Urho Kekkonen National Park, far from city lights
-
Levi – Popular Ski Resort & Aurora Spot
- Great mix of skiing, aurora viewing, and luxury cabins
- Levi Fell (Levitunturi) offers elevated viewpoints for Northern Lights
-
Luosto & Pyhä
- Less crowded, great for nature lovers
- Home to Lampivaara Amethyst Mine, where you can dig for gemstones
-
Kilpisjärvi – Best Aurora Spot in Finland
- Located near the Norwegian border with 90% clear-sky nights in winter
- One of Finland’s most reliable places to see the aurora
Rovaniemi – The “Official Hometown of Santa Claus”
- Easily accessible by air/train
- Good base for aurora tours, glass igloos, and winter activities
Saariselkä & Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort
- Famous for glass igloo hotels where you can watch the aurora from your bed
- Located in Urho Kekkonen National Park, far from city lights
Levi – Popular Ski Resort & Aurora Spot
- Great mix of skiing, aurora viewing, and luxury cabins
- Levi Fell (Levitunturi) offers elevated viewpoints for Northern Lights
Luosto & Pyhä
- Less crowded, great for nature lovers
- Home to Lampivaara Amethyst Mine, where you can dig for gemstones
Kilpisjärvi – Best Aurora Spot in Finland
- Located near the Norwegian border with 90% clear-sky nights in winter
- One of Finland’s most reliable places to see the aurora
Guided Tour vs. Self-Drive
-
Guided Aurora Tours (Best for first-time visitors)
- Includes transport, warm clothes, hot drinks, and expert guidance
- Cost: €100 – €250 per person
- Recommended operators:
- Beyond Arctic (photography-focused aurora tours)
- Lapland Safaris
-
Self-Drive Aurora Chase (For experienced travelers)
- More flexibility to explore remote areas
- Must rent a 4WD/AWD vehicle (snowy roads)
- Essential gear: Thermal wear, blankets, hot drinks, flashlight
Guided Aurora Tours (Best for first-time visitors)
- Includes transport, warm clothes, hot drinks, and expert guidance
- Cost: €100 – €250 per person
- Recommended operators:
- Beyond Arctic (photography-focused aurora tours)
- Lapland Safaris
Self-Drive Aurora Chase (For experienced travelers)
- More flexibility to explore remote areas
- Must rent a 4WD/AWD vehicle (snowy roads)
- Essential gear: Thermal wear, blankets, hot drinks, flashlight
Northern Lights Photography Tips
Use a DSLR/Mirrorless Camera (Sony, Canon, Nikon)
Manual Mode (M) with a wide aperture (f/2.8 or lower)
ISO 1600 – 3200 (depending on aurora brightness)
Shutter Speed: 5-20 sec (adjust based on aurora activity)
Tripod & Remote Shutter for stability
Best Places to Stay for Aurora Viewing
-
Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort (Glass Igloos)
- Iconic aurora hotel with glass igloo accommodations
- Price: €500+ per night
-
Arctic TreeHouse Hotel (Rovaniemi)
- Unique luxury treehouse cabins with panoramic views
- Price: €300+ per night
-
Levi Igloos
- Luxury glass igloos on Levi Fell
- Offers private hot tubs + aurora wake-up service
-
Wilderness Hotel Muotka (Saariselkä)
- Remote aurora cabins for a true Arctic experience
Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort (Glass Igloos)
- Iconic aurora hotel with glass igloo accommodations
- Price: €500+ per night
Arctic TreeHouse Hotel (Rovaniemi)
- Unique luxury treehouse cabins with panoramic views
- Price: €300+ per night
Levi Igloos
- Luxury glass igloos on Levi Fell
- Offers private hot tubs + aurora wake-up service
Wilderness Hotel Muotka (Saariselkä)
- Remote aurora cabins for a true Arctic experience
4-Day Lapland Aurora Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrive in Rovaniemi, visit Santa Claus Village, explore the Arctic city
Day 2 – Travel to Saariselkä or Levi, check into a glass igloo, and join an aurora tour
Day 3 – Go dog sledding or reindeer sleighing, then relax in a Finnish sauna
Day 4 – Take a snowmobile safari, visit an amethyst mine, or do ice fishing
Other Winter Activities in Lapland
Santa Claus Village (Rovaniemi) (Meet Santa & cross the Arctic Circle)
Dog Sledding & Husky Safaris (Ride through Arctic wilderness)
Reindeer Sledding & Sami Culture (Learn about the Indigenous Sami people)
Snowmobiling (Explore the Arctic tundra)
Lampivaara Amethyst Mine Tour (Dig for Arctic gemstones)
Ice Fishing & Snowshoeing
How to Get to Lapland
- By Air: Fly into Rovaniemi Airport (RVN)
- Direct flights from Helsinki, London, Paris, and Frankfurt
- By Train: Overnight sleeper train (Santa Claus Express) from Helsinki to Rovaniemi
- By Car: Rent an AWD/4WD vehicle for winter driving
- Direct flights from Helsinki, London, Paris, and Frankfurt
Essential Winter Tips
Dress in Layers: Thermal base layer, fleece, insulated jacket, gloves, hat, and waterproof boots
Check the Weather & Aurora Forecast before heading out
Prevent Camera Lens Fogging: Keep your camera inside a sealed bag before bringing it indoors
With its high aurora visibility, unique Arctic experiences, and cozy glass igloo hotels, Lapland is one of the world’s most magical destinations for Northern Lights viewing. Stay for at least 3-4 nights to maximize your chances of seeing the aurora!
5. Iceland
Aurora Visibility Rate: ~70% (200+ nights per year)
Temperature in peak season (Sept-April): -3°C to 7°C
Iceland – Aurora Viewing Guide
Iceland is one of the most accessible and stunning places in the world to see the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). With vast open landscapes, little light pollution, and breathtaking natural wonders like glaciers, volcanoes, and waterfalls, Iceland offers a unique aurora experience unlike anywhere else.
Best Time to See the Northern Lights in Iceland
- Aurora Season: Late August to mid-April
- Peak Months: September to March (longest nights, best visibility)
- Best Viewing Hours: 9:00 PM – 2:00 AM (highest activity around midnight)
- Weather Conditions: Icelandic weather is unpredictable, with cloudy skies being a common challenge. Checking the aurora forecast and cloud cover predictions is essential.
Aurora Forecast Tools:
- Vedur.is (Icelandic Meteorological Office)
- Aurora Forecast Apps (My Aurora Forecast, Aurora Alerts)
Best Aurora Viewing Locations in Iceland
-
Thingvellir National Park (Þingvellir)
- A UNESCO World Heritage Site with wide open spaces and minimal light pollution
- Part of the Golden Circle Route, easy to access from Reykjavik
-
Grotta Lighthouse (Reykjavik)
- A convenient city spot for aurora viewing
- Located on the Seltjarnarnes Peninsula, just a short drive from downtown
-
Kirkjufell (Snæfellsnes Peninsula)
- One of Iceland’s most photographed mountains
- Stunning aurora reflections on the surrounding water
-
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon & Diamond Beach
- Floating icebergs with the aurora reflecting on the water
- One of the most unique places in the world to see the Northern Lights
-
Vík & Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
- Famous black sand beaches and dramatic sea stacks
- A great mix of aurora and ocean views
-
Hvolsvöllur & Skógafoss Waterfall
- Auroras dancing over waterfalls create a magical experience
- Less crowded than other locations
-
Ásbyrgi Canyon (North Iceland)
- Located in the remote north, with darker skies and fewer tourists
- Perfect for adventurers seeking a true Arctic experience
Thingvellir National Park (Þingvellir)
- A UNESCO World Heritage Site with wide open spaces and minimal light pollution
- Part of the Golden Circle Route, easy to access from Reykjavik
Grotta Lighthouse (Reykjavik)
- A convenient city spot for aurora viewing
- Located on the Seltjarnarnes Peninsula, just a short drive from downtown
Kirkjufell (Snæfellsnes Peninsula)
- One of Iceland’s most photographed mountains
- Stunning aurora reflections on the surrounding water
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon & Diamond Beach
- Floating icebergs with the aurora reflecting on the water
- One of the most unique places in the world to see the Northern Lights
Vík & Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
- Famous black sand beaches and dramatic sea stacks
- A great mix of aurora and ocean views
Hvolsvöllur & Skógafoss Waterfall
- Auroras dancing over waterfalls create a magical experience
- Less crowded than other locations
Ásbyrgi Canyon (North Iceland)
- Located in the remote north, with darker skies and fewer tourists
- Perfect for adventurers seeking a true Arctic experience
Guided Tour vs. Self-Drive
-
Guided Aurora Tours (Best for first-time visitors)
- Expert guides take you to the best spots based on weather
- Includes transport, warm drinks, and photography assistance
- Cost: $100 – $250 per person
- Recommended Operators:
- Gray Line Iceland
- Reykjavik Excursions
- Icelandic Mountain Guides
-
Self-Drive Aurora Chase (For experienced travelers)
- More freedom to explore remote areas
- 4WD/AWD car required (especially in winter)
- Essential gear: Thermal wear, blankets, hot drinks, flashlight
Guided Aurora Tours (Best for first-time visitors)
- Expert guides take you to the best spots based on weather
- Includes transport, warm drinks, and photography assistance
- Cost: $100 – $250 per person
- Recommended Operators:
- Gray Line Iceland
- Reykjavik Excursions
- Icelandic Mountain Guides
Self-Drive Aurora Chase (For experienced travelers)
- More freedom to explore remote areas
- 4WD/AWD car required (especially in winter)
- Essential gear: Thermal wear, blankets, hot drinks, flashlight
Northern Lights Photography Tips
Use a DSLR/Mirrorless Camera (Sony, Canon, Nikon)
Manual Mode (M) with a wide aperture (f/2.8 or lower)
ISO 1600 – 3200 (adjust based on aurora brightness)
Shutter Speed: 5-20 sec (varies depending on movement)
Tripod & Remote Shutter to avoid camera shake
Best Places to Stay for Aurora Viewing
-
Hotel Rangá (Luxury Aurora Lodge)
- Offers aurora wake-up calls and an outdoor hot tub
- Price: €400+ per night
-
Ion Adventure Hotel (Near Thingvellir National Park)
- Features a modern glass-walled bar for aurora viewing
- Price: €300+ per night
-
Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon
- Located near Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, ideal for remote aurora viewing
- Price: €250+ per night
-
Northern Lights Inn (Grindavík, near Blue Lagoon)
- Great for combining aurora viewing + hot spring relaxation
Hotel Rangá (Luxury Aurora Lodge)
- Offers aurora wake-up calls and an outdoor hot tub
- Price: €400+ per night
Ion Adventure Hotel (Near Thingvellir National Park)
- Features a modern glass-walled bar for aurora viewing
- Price: €300+ per night
Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon
- Located near Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, ideal for remote aurora viewing
- Price: €250+ per night
Northern Lights Inn (Grindavík, near Blue Lagoon)
- Great for combining aurora viewing + hot spring relaxation
4-Day Iceland Aurora Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrive in Reykjavik, explore the city, visit the Blue Lagoon
Day 2 – Drive the Golden Circle (Thingvellir, Geysir, Gullfoss), chase the aurora at Thingvellir
Day 3 – Visit Vík, Skógafoss, and Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, see the aurora over the ocean
Day 4 – Head to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach, final aurora hunt
Other Winter Activities in Iceland
Blue Lagoon & Myvatn Nature Baths (Hot springs under the aurora)
Whale Watching (November – March)
Glacier Hiking & Ice Cave Tours (Vatnajökull Glacier)
Icelandic Horse Riding (Ride through snowy landscapes)
Exploring Volcanoes & Lava Fields
How to Get to Iceland
- By Air: Fly into Keflavík International Airport (KEF)
- Direct flights from New York, London, Paris, Frankfurt, and more
- By Car: Rent a 4WD/AWD vehicle for winter driving
- Direct flights from New York, London, Paris, Frankfurt, and more
Essential Winter Tips
Dress in Layers: Thermal base layer, fleece, insulated jacket, gloves, hat, and waterproof boots
Check the Weather & Aurora Forecast before heading out
Be Prepared for Snowy Roads if driving, and carry emergency supplies
With its stunning landscapes, high aurora activity, and unique Arctic experiences, Iceland is one of the world’s most magical places to see the Northern Lights! Stay for at least 3-4 nights to maximize your chances of witnessing this breathtaking natural phenomenon.
Summary – Best Northern Lights Viewing Locations Ranked
Rank |
Location |
Aurora Visibility Rate |
Best Viewing Season |
Unique Features |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 |
Yellowknife, Canada |
~90% (240+ nights/year) |
Sept-April |
Aurora Village, minimal light pollution |
2 |
Fairbanks, Alaska, USA |
~85% (243+ nights/year) |
Sept-April |
Chena Hot Springs, remote wilderness |
3 |
Tromsø, Norway |
~80% (200+ nights/year) |
Sept-March |
Fjords, Arctic cruises, easy access |
4 |
Lapland, Finland |
~75% (200+ nights/year) |
Sept-March |
Glass igloos, winter wonderland |
5 |
Iceland |
~70% (200+ nights/year) |
Sept-April |
Volcanic landscapes, waterfalls, glaciers |
Pro Tips for Aurora Viewing
-
- Best Time to See the Aurora: 9 PM – 2 AM
- Best Months: September to March (when nights are darkest)
- Check Aurora Forecasts:
- Light Pollution: Avoid city lights; head to remote areas for better visibility.
- Weather Conditions: Clear, cold nights with little cloud cover offer the best aurora views.
- Photography Tips: Use a tripod, set ISO 800-3200, and long exposure (15-30 sec) for best results.