Iceland sits right below the Arctic Circle, in what is called the “Aurora Zone”, where the Northern lights are most frequently visible. This country has very long nights during the winter and low light pollution in the vast open spaces without population. Because of this, Iceland is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights, and while you can technically see them from anywhere in the country (if conditions are right), some spots stand out for their consistently good visibility and low light pollution.
Discover our handpicked selection of 5 of the best spots to see the Northern Lights in Iceland:
1. Þingvellir National Park
- Distance from Reykjavik: About 45 min drive
- Why it’s great: Wide open views, little light pollution, and a beautiful natural setting.
- Bonus: Easy to reach on a short evening tour from Reykjavik.
2. Vík (South Coast)
- Distance from Reykjavik: About 2.5 hours
- Why it’s great: Incredible coastal views, black sand beaches, and fewer crowds.
- Bonus: Combine with a daytime South Coast tour (like waterfalls and glaciers) and stay overnight.
3. Snæfellsnes Peninsula
- Distance from Reykjavik: About 2.5 hours
- Why it’s great: Low light pollution, dramatic landscapes, and wide horizons.
- Bonus: A fantastic place to photograph the aurora over volcanoes or the ocean.
4. Mývatn Region (North Iceland)
- Distance from Reykjavik: About 5-6 hours
- Why it’s great: This area is one of the clearest and driest regions in the country, which gives it more aurora nights per season
- Bonus: Combine with a soak in the Mývatn Nature Baths under the lights
5. Ásbyrgi Canyon (North Iceland)
- Distance from Reykjavik: About 6-7 hours
- Why it’s great: Surrounded by cliffs and silence, it’s an extraordinary spot to watch the Northern Lights dance above the canyon walls.
- Bonus: Unique geological setting for a dramatic aurora backdrop.
And… 6! Anywhere rural with clear skies
- If you’re staying outside of city lights, even places near Reykjavik like Hvalfjörður or Reykjanes Peninsula can be amazing.
- Just get away from streetlights, wait for a clear, cold night, and check the aurora forecast.
Pro tip if you’re based in Reykjavik:
Joining a Northern Lights tour increases your chances. Why? Because the guides will drive to where the skies are clearest that night — sometimes it’s cloudy in one area but clear just an hour away.
If this is of your interest, the small group Northern lights tour at EastWest includes hot chocolate, kleinas (Icelandic treat), and free photos under the aurora. We also offer a free rebooking (subject to availability) if we are not successful the first night.
This tour is great because fewer people means a better experience. You can ask questions, get personalized photo help, and avoid crowded buses.
If you want to know more about the Northern lights, please check Northern Lights in Iceland: Top Tricks to Find them.
