When is the best time to see the northern lights?

The aurora season in Iceland and the Nordic Arctic runs from about September to April, when nights are long and dark. The weeks around the September and March equinoxes are often especially active, and clear, moonless nights give the best displays.

Is it guaranteed that I will see the aurora?

No honest operator can guarantee it — the lights depend on solar activity and clear skies. A multi-night tour with several hunting chances gives you the best odds, and some operators offer a free second try if you miss them.

How cold does it get?

In Iceland winter temperatures usually hover around freezing, but wind makes it feel colder; further north it can drop well below −15 °C. Thermal base layers, a windproof outer layer, a warm hat and insulated boots are a must.

Can I photograph the northern lights with my phone?

Yes, most recent phones have a night mode that captures the aurora well. Keep the phone steady — on a tripod or a solid surface — and turn off the flash.

Do I need a visa for Iceland?

Iceland is part of the Schengen Area, so Schengen rules apply. Many nationalities can visit visa-free for short stays, but the EU's new digital border systems are being introduced, so check official Schengen sources before you travel.

Northern Lights Tours

0 tours

Quick answer

A northern lights tour takes you to the Arctic or sub-Arctic between September and April, combining dark-sky aurora hunts with daytime highlights like glaciers, waterfalls and hot springs. Guides track the forecast and cloud cover every night to give you the best possible chance.

Updated Ekim 2026

What to expect on Northern Lights tours

Night hunts, flexible plans

Aurora chasing is a game of patience. Your guide checks solar activity and cloud forecasts every afternoon and drives to wherever the sky is clearest — sometimes that means a late night and a hot chocolate in a dark field.
Daytime is just as good

Winter days are short but spectacular: black-sand beaches, frozen waterfalls, glacier walks and geothermal pools. Even if the sky stays shy, the landscape alone is worth the trip.
Proper winter comfort

Expect warm, cosy accommodation in quiet locations away from city light, and itineraries planned around winter driving conditions. Good operators keep a weather buffer in the plan.
Photography help on hand

Many guides will help you set up your camera or phone for night shots. Bring a small tripod if you have one — it makes the difference between a blur and a keeper.

Your Northern Lights tour questions, answered

When is the best time to see the northern lights?: The aurora season in Iceland and the Nordic Arctic runs from about September to April, when nights are long and dark. The weeks around the September and March equinoxes are often especially active, and clear, moonless nights give the best displays.
Is it guaranteed that I will see the aurora?: No honest operator can guarantee it — the lights depend on solar activity and clear skies. A multi-night tour with several hunting chances gives you the best odds, and some operators offer a free second try if you miss them.
How cold does it get?: In Iceland winter temperatures usually hover around freezing, but wind makes it feel colder; further north it can drop well below −15 °C. Thermal base layers, a windproof outer layer, a warm hat and insulated boots are a must.
Can I photograph the northern lights with my phone?: Yes, most recent phones have a night mode that captures the aurora well. Keep the phone steady — on a tripod or a solid surface — and turn off the flash.
Do I need a visa for Iceland?: Iceland is part of the Schengen Area, so Schengen rules apply. Many nationalities can visit visa-free for short stays, but the EU's new digital border systems are being introduced, so check official Schengen sources before you travel.