Chasing the Northern Lights in Iceland's Golden Circle: Ultimate Guide

Chasing the Northern Lights in Iceland's Golden Circle: Ultimate Guide

So you want to see the magical Northern Lights in Iceland, do you? Well, you've come to the right place. The Golden Circle is one of the best spots in Iceland to catch a glimpse of the Aurora Borealis in all its dancing, shimmering glory. This stunning 300km route takes you to dramatic waterfalls, bubbling geothermal pools, and National Park. But at night, the real show begins. The Golden Circle's remote location away from city lights, combined with Iceland's clear skies and long winter nights, make this an ideal spot for Aurora viewing.

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What Is Iceland's Golden Circle?

The Golden Circle is Iceland's most popular tourist route, and for good reason. This 300 km loop takes you to some of the country's most stunning natural wonders, all within a few hours of Reykjavik.

The Golden Circle is also one of the best places in Iceland to see the Northern Lights. The further you get from city lights, the better your chances are of spotting the Aurora Borealis. Spots like Þingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall offer prime viewing locations away from light pollution.

Þingvellir National Park, where the Icelandic parliament was founded in 930 AD, is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site. The park's rugged terrain and lack of development make it ideal for Northern Lights viewing. For the best chance of spotting them, head to the campsite and viewing area on the western shore of Þingvallavatn Lake.

At Geysir geothermal area, you'll see bubbling mud pots and the massive Strokkur geyser erupting up to 40 meters high every few minutes. But stick around after dark and you may witness the spectacular sight of the Northern Lights dancing over the volcanic landscape.

The mighty Gullfoss waterfall, 'Golden Falls' in Icelandic, is a spectacular sight any time of day. But at night, the lack of crowds and ambient lighting transforms this scenic spot into an amazing place to view the Aurora Borealis as they shimmer and sway across the inky sky.

The best time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland is between September and March when nights are the longest. The peak months are December through February, with January typically offering the most active light displays and darkest nights. For the best chances, check the Aurora forecast starting 3 days before your trip and head out between 9 pm and 3 am when the sky is darkest.

With stunning natural scenery and ideal conditions for spotting the Aurora Borealis, Iceland's Golden Circle offers a trifecta of beauty that's hard to beat. Bundle up, set your camera to a high ISO, and get ready for a dazzling display of nature's greatest light show.

Why the Golden Circle Is the Best Place to See the Northern Lights

The Golden Circle is Iceland’s most popular tourist route, and for good reason - it offers stunning waterfalls, geothermal areas, and a chance to see the elusive Northern Lights. This route is ideally located under the Auroral Oval, the band around the Arctic where the Northern Lights are most active. With minimal light pollution and wide open spaces, the Golden Circle is one of the best places on Earth to catch a glimpse of the Aurora Borealis.

Within the Golden Circle, there are several prime viewing spots for the Northern Lights. Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers picturesque landscapes, hiking trails, and secluded areas away from the crowds. The mighty Gullfoss waterfall is particularly scenic at night when illuminated under the green glow. The Geysir geothermal area, home of the exploding Strokkur geyser, has an otherworldly feel after dark that complements any Northern Light show.

The best time to see the Northern Lights in the Golden Circle is between September and March when the nights are the longest. September and March see fewer crowds with the chance of clear skies, while peak winter months of December through February have the highest Aurora activity but often more overcast weather. Check the cloud cover forecast and Aurora activity on the 3-day and 27-day forecasts to find the clearest, most active nights.

To get the best photos of the Northern Lights, use a digital camera with manual settings, a wide-angle lens, and a sturdy tripod. Set your ISO to at least 800, open your aperture as wide as possible, and use an exposure time of 5 to 30 seconds. Frame your shot with an interesting landscape feature like the Gullfoss waterfall or Thingvellir’s rugged cliffs. With the right conditions and a bit of luck, you'll capture the Aurora shimmering over Iceland's Golden Circle.

The Best Spots Along the Golden Circle to See the Northern Lights

The Golden Circle is one of the best places in Iceland to witness the spectacular Northern Lights. Within about an hour of Reykjavik, this popular tourist route takes you to stunning waterfalls, geysers, lava fields and more. At night, the lack of light pollution makes for ideal conditions to see the Aurora Borealis dancing across the sky.

Gullfoss Waterfall
One of the most impressive spots is Gullfoss Waterfall, where the Hvítá River plummets 105 feet into a dramatic canyon. The massive volume of water thundering over the edge is a sight to behold during the day, but at night the falls become shrouded in mystery under the green glow of the Northern Lights.

Geysir Geothermal Area
In the Geysir geothermal area, the hot springs and mud pits bubble and churn, releasing steam into the cold night air. The Northern Lights reflect off the rising vapours, creating a surreal scene you have to see to believe. While the Great Geysir is largely dormant now, its neighbour Strokkur still erupts every few minutes, shooting water up to 66 feet high.

Thingvellir National Park
Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates meet. As the plates slowly pull apart, fissures and faults scar the landscape. The park’s rugged terrain and minimal light pollution make it an ideal spot for Aurora viewing. Find a quiet place to sit or lie back and take in the full sky show.

The best time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland’s Golden Circle is between September and mid-April, especially around the equinoxes in March and September. For the strongest activity and most vibrant displays, check the forecast to see when the Kp index is higher, indicating more intense geomagnetic storms. Bundle up, stay warm, and be prepared for a magical experience like no other.

When to See the Northern Lights in the Golden Circle

To catch the dazzling Northern Lights show in the Golden Circle, timing is everything. The best months to see the Aurora Borealis are from September through March when the skies are darkest. Within those months, the optimal time is between 10 pm to 3 am. The later into the night you stay out, the better your chances.

Peak Season
The peak season for the Northern Lights in Iceland’s Golden Circle runs from December through February. During these winter months, the Golden Circle receives almost 20 hours of darkness each day, providing the perfect inky black canvas for the lights to dance across. The longer hours of darkness combined with the circle’s minimal light pollution make this the prime time for Aurora hunting.

Shoulder Season
The shoulder months of September through November and March can also be an excellent time to spot the Northern Lights in the Golden Circle. You’ll have fewer crowds, lower prices, and still up to 16 hours of darkness. The trade-off is slightly warmer weather, which may produce more unpredictable Aurora activity. But with the right conditions, you can see spectacular shows during the shoulder season.

The best spots for viewing the Northern Lights in the Golden Circle are anywhere away from the light pollution of towns and cities. Some ideal locations include:

Þingvellir National Park - This UNESCO World Heritage site offers stunning views of the valley and lake
Gullfoss Waterfall - The “Golden Waterfall” is a prime viewing spot, especially if it’s partly frozen in winter
Geysir Geothermal Area - The erupting geysers are a sight to behold under the glow of the Aurora
Fridheimar Farm - This geothermally heated greenhouse provides a cozy viewing spot on colder nights
Kerid Crater Lake - The vivid red volcanic crater makes a dramatic backdrop for photos of the Northern Lights

So bundle up, grab your camera, and stake out a spot in the Golden Circle to watch one of nature’s most spectacular shows light up the night sky with ribbons of color. The dazzling display of the Aurora Borealis dancing overhead is an experience you’ll never forget.

Northern Lights Forecasting: 3-Day and 27-Day Forecasts

The Golden Circle is one of the best places on Earth to witness the dazzling Northern Lights. This popular tourist route loops from Reykjavik into the Icelandic countryside, encompassing stunning waterfalls, geysers, lava fields and more. Due to the minimal light pollution in this area, the night sky ignites with the Aurora Borealis, especially between mid-Sepetmebr and mid-April.

3-Day Forecast
For the best chance at seeing the Northern Lights in the Golden Circle, check the 3-day Aurora forecast from the Icelandic Meteorological Office. This will indicate if skies are expected to be clear and dark, and the intensity of any solar activity that could lead to a show. The higher predicted the Kp index, the higher the chances. Of course, there are no guarantees, as the Lights are a natural phenomenon. But an active 3-day forecast means you'll want to venture out at night to search the skies.

27-Day Forecast
The 27-day forecast tracks the Sun's rotation and magnetic activity. Around the equinoxes in March and September, the Sun's magnetic activity peaks, leading to some of the year's most intense Northern Lights shows. If the 27-day forecast shows an increased Kp index, get ready for a dazzling display! Again, while not a guarantee, the 27-day forecast provides helpful insights into the best viewing periods.

The 3-day and 27-day forecasts, combined with the optimal months to visit and desirable weather conditions, will set you up for the best chance to witness the Aurora Borealis dancing across the night sky in Iceland's stunning Golden Circle. Checking these forecasts regularly in the days leading up to and during your trip will ensure you don't miss a single shimmer of green in the dark Icelandic winter.

Learn about Aurora's forecast and more in our Ultimate Northern Lights Course.

Photography Tips for Capturing the Northern Lights

To capture the stunning beauty of the Northern Lights in photos, there are a few tips to keep in mind. The Golden Circle offers ideal conditions for photography, so make the most of it!

First, use a digital camera that allows you to adjust ISO, aperture, and shutter speed manually. A DSLR is best, but any camera with manual controls will work. You’ll want to use a wide-angle lens, like 24mm or less. This allows you to capture more of the sky.

Next, use a high ISO, around 1600 to 6400. This makes the camera sensor more sensitive to light, allowing you to capture the Northern Lights even in dark conditions. Use the largest aperture possible, around f/2.8 or f/4. This lets in more light.

For shutter speed, start around 5 to 15 seconds. This keeps the shutter open long enough to capture the movement and colors of the Aurora. You can then adjust up or down based on how quickly the lights are dancing. Use a tripod to keep the camera still during long exposures.

Frame your shot to include interesting foreground elements like waterfalls, mountains or buildings. This helps highlight the scale and grandeur of the Northern Lights. You can also include people in some shots. Have them stand still for the duration of the exposure.

Take both landscape (horizontal) and portrait (vertical) oriented photos. Shoot in RAW image format if your camera has this capability. RAW provides more editing flexibility later on.

Bracket your shots at different exposures to give you options. Take some test shots first and check how they look. Make adjustments and keep shooting. The lights often change quickly, so work fast!

Review and edit your photos to make the colors pop. Adjust brightness, contrast, sharpness and color balance. Consider stacking multiple exposures together for an HDR effect.

With the right equipment and techniques, you'll be capturing stunning photos of the Northern Lights dancing across the night sky that will dazzle viewers for years to come. Enjoy this magical experience in the Golden Circle!

Frequently Asked Questions About the Northern Lights in the Golden Circle

The Golden Circle is Iceland’s most popular sightseeing route, and for good reason. Not only does it contain stunning waterfalls, geysers, lava fields and more, but it also offers some of the best opportunities for spotting the Northern Lights. Here are some frequently asked questions to help you experience the Aurora Borealis in all its glory.

What are the best spots along the Golden Circle to see the Northern Lights?
Some of the top places are:

Thingvellir National Park - Miles of open space and very little light pollution. Hike out to the middle of the valley for the best views.
Geysir Geothermal Area - While the geysers are spectacular during the day, at night the rising steam creates a dramatic effect under the Lights.
Gullfoss Waterfall - The mist from Iceland’s “Golden Waterfall” reflects the vibrant colors of the aurora. One of the most stunning spots.

What are the best months to see the Northern Lights in the Golden Circle?
The Aurora Borealis is visible from late August through early April in Iceland, but the peak season is between September and March. The winter months typically have longer, darker nights which provide the best conditions.

What’s the best time of night to see the Northern Lights?
The Aurora is often most active between 10 pm and 3 am when the sky is darkest. However, they can appear at any time during the night when the sky is clear and there is enough solar activity. It’s best to start looking around 9 pm and stay out as late as possible for the best chance of spotting a show.

How can I photograph the Northern Lights?
Use a camera with manual settings, a wide angle lens, high ISO, and a steady tripod. Compose your shot with an interesting foreground like mountains, trees or buildings. Shoot in RAW image format. Don’t use a flash. Try exposures of 3 to 20 seconds to capture the colors and movement. Take lots of photos - the aurora can change quickly!

With the right conditions and a little patience, you'll be gazing in wonder at the spectacular Northern Lights dancing across the night sky. The Golden Circle offers prime viewing spots, optimal weather conditions in winter, and plenty of scenic backdrops for your aurora photos. Bundle up, get outside, and enjoy nature's most dazzling light show!

Winter Weather Conditions in the Golden Circle

The Golden Circle is one of the best places in Iceland to witness the Northern Lights. During the winter months, the long hours of darkness and limited light pollution make for ideal viewing conditions. The weather in the Golden Circle, however, can be quite cold. Be prepared for temperatures well below freezing, high winds, and snow.

Dress for Arctic Conditions
When venturing out at night in the winter, bundle up in insulated layers, waterproof boots, gloves, hat, and thermal undergarments. The temperatures regularly drop below -20°C, so make sure no skin is exposed. Hand and toe warmers can provide extra comfort.

Check the Forecast
Monitor the local weather forecasts in the Golden Circle to choose the clearest, darkest nights. The Northern Lights are visible when the sky is clear and free of clouds. The Aurora forecast will also indicate the likelihood of visibility and activity. For the best chances, go out on nights with a KP index of 3 or higher.

Find a Secluded Spot
Get away from the light pollution of towns and pull over in a secluded area along the Golden Circle route. Some of the best locations are:

Thingvellir National Park - This UNESCO World Heritage site offers dramatic views of the rift valley and Northern Lights. Park along the side of the road and hike into the valley.
Gullfoss Waterfall - The “Golden Waterfall” is a stunning backdrop for the Northern Lights. View from the parking lot or hike the trail down to the lower falls.
Geysir Geothermal Area - Watch the Northern Lights dance above the erupting geysers and steam vents. The parking lot provides a panoramic view of the valley.
Faxi Waterfall - A lesser-known spot with few tourists. The wide waterfall cascades into a serene pond, reflecting the colors of the Aurora.

With the right weather conditions and by escaping the light pollution, the Golden Circle offers front-row seats to one of the greatest shows on earth. So bundle up, set your cameras to a long exposure, and wait for the sky to burst into a swirling sea of color. An Aurora experience you'll never forget!

What to Know Before Visiting Iceland's Golden Circle in Winter

To chase the Northern Lights in Iceland’s Golden Circle, there are a few key things to know before embarking on your winter adventure.

Best Time to Visit
The prime months to spot the Aurora Borealis are from September to mid-April when the nights are longest. The best viewing is between 10 pm to 3 am when the sky is darkest. Check the 3-day and 27-day forecasts to see the predicted Northern Lights activity and weather conditions.

Where to Go
Head to secluded spots away from city lights for the best views. Some top places along the Golden Circle include:

Thingvellir National Park: Find a scenic spot by the lake or hike to higher ground.
Gullfoss Waterfall: Walk down the path to the lower falls for an unobstructed view of the sky.
Geysir Geothermal Area: The hot springs provide a unique foreground for your Northern Lights photos.

What to Bring
Be prepared for very cold weather, especially if going on a guided tour in an open vehicle. Essentials include: insulated layers, winter coat, hat, gloves, thermal undergarments, comfortable waterproof boots, hand warmers, blanket/sleeping bag. Don’t forget your camera! Use a tripod and longer exposure to capture the lights.

Tips for Viewing
Find a spot away from light pollution, set up your camera and tripod, and wait patiently. The lights often appear gradually, so give your eyes time to adjust to the dark. The show could last a few minutes to a few hours. Move around to different locations for the best vantage points. Check the sky in all directions as the lights may dance and change quickly.

Seeing the Aurora Borealis in the Golden Circle is a magical experience. With some preparation and perseverance, you'll be gazing in wonder at the celestial spectacle illuminating the night sky. The dazzling display of colors and shapes as the Northern Lights twist and turn will leave you with a lasting sense of peace and inspiration.

Conclusion

So there you have it, everything you need to know to chase the elusive Northern Lights in Iceland's stunning Golden Circle. Bundle up, set your camera to a high ISO, and get ready for a dazzling display of green that will take your breath away. The dramatic landscapes of Iceland were made for aurora hunting, and with the right timing and a little luck, you'll be rewarded with a cosmic show you'll never forget. Don't forget to glance away from your viewfinder every now and then to appreciate the wonder of the moment. Dance under the glowing sky, make a wish and create memories that will light up the dark of winter for years to come. Iceland in winter is pure magic, and the Northern Lights are the cherry on top. What are you waiting for? Time to start planning your adventure!

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