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Northern Lights

Chase the magical Northern Lights on a private tour, blending comfort with the thrill of nature's most dazzling display.

Everything You Need to Know About the Northern Lights

The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are a spectacular natural phenomenon caused by interactions between the Sun and Earth. When the Sun releases charged particles (solar wind), they travel to Earth and get caught in our planet’s magnetic field and  they are funneled toward the poles, where the magnetic field is weaker. These particles collide with gases in the upper atmosphere — like oxygen and nitrogen — creating beautiful glowing lights. The process is similar to what happens in neon signs — but on a massive scale and with way cooler colors!

Nope, this isn’t a 3D movie! Just use your eyes (and maybe a bit of patience). No special equipment required, unless you want binoculars for an extra up-close experience.

It depends on several factors:

  • Solar activity: The sun needs to send out a good dose of particles, and this is measured using the “KP index” (on a scale of 0–9). A KP index of 3 or higher increases the likelihood of auroras being visible, but even with lower KP levels, they can appear closer to the poles or under clear skies. We also monitor Bz values — a negative Bz (a southward-pointing magnetic field) enhances the chance of auroras forming. So, we’re not just KP-watching; we’re diving deeper into solar physics.
  • Clear skies: No clouds, no obstructions. I keep an eye on cloud forecasts to take you to the clearest locations.
  • Darkness: The darker the area, the better the visibility. That’s why we avoid cities and towns with light pollution.

Even if all the conditions are perfect, remember that nature is unpredictable. But hey, that’s what makes seeing the lights so magical!

The colors depend on the type of gas the particles collide with and the altitude:

  • Green: The most common color, caused by oxygen at about 100 km (62 miles) altitude.
  • Red: Rare, caused by oxygen higher in the atmosphere (over 200 km/124 miles).
  • Purple and Pink: Caused by nitrogen, often on the edges of the aurora.

Think of it as nature’s chemistry lesson in action—but way more exciting than high school science class!

The lights are most active between 9 PM and 2 AM, but they can appear earlier or later.

It’s Iceland in winter, so expect temperatures ranging from “chilly” to “I can’t feel my toes.” Layers are essential:

  • Thermal base layers
  • Insulating layers (wool or fleece)
  • Waterproof outerwear
  • A hat, scarf, gloves, and thick socks

If you feel like the Michelin Man, you’re dressed perfectly.

Unfortunately, no one can guarantee a sighting. The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, and while we use tools like weather forecasts and solar activity data to increase your chances, it’s ultimately up to Mother Nature. The good news? If you don’t see the lights, you can rebook for free on another night. It’s like a second chance date with the aurora!

Yes, but your phone needs a night photography mode (most newer models have it). For the best results:

  1. Use a tripod or rest your phone on something steady.
  2. Turn off the flash.
  3. Set the exposure time longer (4–10 seconds works well).

If you don’t get the perfect shot, don’t worry— we will help you capture the moment, and you can still enjoy the show with your own eyes.

Iceland is perfectly positioned under the Auroral Oval, a zone near the poles where auroras are most active. Add to that Iceland’s dark skies, minimal light pollution, and clear views, and you’ve got one of the best spots on Earth to see the lights. Basically, it’s like having front-row seats to nature’s greatest show.

Some people claim to hear faint crackling or popping sounds, but this is still debated scientifically. Theoretically, the sounds could be caused by electrical discharges in the atmosphere, but no solid proof exists. So, if you hear something, congrats — you might have tuned into the auroral FM channel!

They can dance across the sky for a few minutes or stay for hours. Sometimes it’s a quick “Hi, bye!” and other times it’s a full performance.

Clouds can block the view, but Iceland’s weather is famously unpredictable. Often, we can drive to a clearer spot. Even if it’s partly cloudy, the aurora’s glow can shine through thin layers of cloud. Plus, exploring Iceland at night is an adventure on its own.

Nope! Icelandic summers are all about endless daylight (literally). The lights only come out to play when the nights are long and dark, from late August to mid-April.

The “dancing” effect is caused by changes in the solar wind’s speed and direction. When the solar particles hit the atmosphere at varying intensities, the lights move and shimmer. It’s like the sky is having its own rave party!

The name comes from ancient mythology and science:

  • Aurora: The Roman goddess of dawn.
  • Borealis: The Greek word for “northern.”

Together, it means “Northern Dawn.” Poetic, isn’t it?

Not at all! The aurora happens high above Earth’s surface, so you’re perfectly safe. The only danger is staying outside too long without proper clothing — so bundle up!

There’s no strong evidence that animals react to the aurora, but some myths say reindeer and foxes were mesmerized by the lights. Maybe they’re just enjoying the show like we do!

Relax. Explore. Repeat. With CarBuddy.

From hassle-free airport transfers to unforgettable private tours of the Blue Lagoon, Golden Circle, Reykjanes Peninsula or South Coast.