Discovering the Northern Lights in Akureyri, Iceland's Capital of the North

Have you ever dreamed of witnessing the spectacular Northern Lights dancing across the night sky? Well, pack your bags because you're headed to Akureyri, Iceland's capital of the north and one of the best places on Earth to experience the Aurora Borealis. Nestled along the Eyjafjörður fjord, this charming town is brimming with natural wonders and adventure. Just a short flight from Reykjavik, Akureyri offers a front-row seat to one of nature's greatest shows.

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Why Akureyri Is the Best Place to See the Northern Lights

If you want to experience the magical Northern Lights, head to Akureyri, Iceland’s capital of the north. This cozy town is the perfect base for Aurora hunting.

Akureyri is located in north Iceland, about a 6-hour drive from Reykjavik. You can get there by bus, car or domestic flight. Once in Akureyri, the best places to see the Aurora Borealis are just minutes away.

Akureyri’s location in the northern part of Iceland, away from light pollution, makes it an ideal spot for viewing the Northern Lights. The dancing lights are frequently visible directly above the town, especially between 10 pm to 3 am.

For the best views, head to one of these spots:

Kjarnaskógur Forest: Just a 10-minute drive from Akureyri, this pine forest offers seclusion and darkness for optimal Aurora viewing.
Glerárdalur Valley: A scenic 15-minute drive west of Akureyri, the “Valley of Light” lives up to its name. The open valley and mountain views create a dramatic backdrop for the lights.
Hlíðarfjall Mountain: For panoramic views, hike up the side of this mountain on the edge of Akureyri. At the top, you'll be rewarded with a 360° view of the sky and surrounding landscape.

The Northern Lights are most visible between September and March in Akureyri, when the nights are the longest and darkest. So bundle up, find your perfect viewing spot, and wait for the show to begin. The dazzling display of colors - pale green, pink, violet and red - dancing across the Arctic sky will leave you in awe.

Where Is Akureyri Located?

Akureyri is located in northern Iceland, about a 6-hour drive from the capital Reykjavik. To get there, you can rent a car and drive north on Route 1, or take a bus tour. Akureyri makes the perfect base for viewing the Northern Lights. Its location in the Eyjafjörður fjord, surrounded by mountains, offers dark skies and minimal light pollution.

In Akureyri itself, head to the harbor, the botanical gardens, or the church for the best views. The Northern Lights are often visible between 10 pm to 3 am during the winter months in Akureyri, from September through March. The lights are unpredictable, but your best chances are around the equinoxes in September and March.

While waiting for the Aurora, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy in Akureyri like dog sledding, snowmobiling, skiing, or relaxing in geothermal pools. The Northern Lights are a spectacular sight, but the adventure of experiencing them in a place as stunning as Akureyri is what will create memories to last a lifetime.

How to Get to Akureyri From Reykjavik

Getting from Reykjavik to Akureyri is actually quite straightforward. As Iceland’s capital of the north, Akureyri is well connected to Reykjavik and the rest of the country.

By Car
Driving the Ring Road from Reykjavik to Akureyri is a popular way to take in Iceland’s stunning scenery at your own pace. The drive takes around 5 to 6 hours nonstop, but you’ll want to budget a full day with stops. Head north on Route 1, which circumnavigates the entire island. The landscapes will transform from volcanic fields to verdant farmland, with snow-capped peaks in the distance.

By Bus
For a quick and budget-friendly option, catch a bus from Reykjavik’s main bus terminal (BSÍ) to Akureyri. Several bus companies offer the trip for around $30 to $50 one-way. The journey takes 6 to 7 hours with a few short stops, but you can sit back and enjoy the ride without worrying about driving or navigation. Most buses have free Wi-Fi, reclining seats and onboard restrooms.

By Flight
If you’re short on time, a quick 45-minute flight can whisk you from Reykjavik to Akureyri. Air Iceland and Eagle Air offer multiple daily flights between the two cities. One-way fares typically start around $100. While flying is the fastest method, you do miss out on experiencing the diverse scenery along the drive.

Once in Akureyri, the best spots to see the northern lights are away from the city lights. Head to the Akureyri Botanical Garden, the old harbor, or the Kjarnaskógur forest for optimal viewing. The Aurora can appear anytime between 10 pm and 3 am, so grab your camera, dress warmly, and find a spot to wait for the show to start. The dazzling display of colors dancing across the night sky will make the journey to Akureyri well worth it.

The Best Spots in Akureyri to See the Northern Lights

As the capital of north Iceland, Akureyri is one of the premier destinations for viewing the Aurora Borealis. Its location within the Aurora Zone and minimal light pollution make it an ideal spot for catching a glimpse of the Northern Lights. Here are some of the best places in and around Akureyri to see the Aurora Borealis:

Akureyri Botanical Garden: This beautiful garden in the center of Akureyri offers panoramic views of the sky that are perfect for viewing the Northern Lights. The garden stays open late into the evening, so you can stay as long as you like waiting for the lights to appear.
Kjarnaskógur Forest: Just a 10-minute drive from Akureyri, this pine forest is a popular spot for Aurora hunting. The dense trees block out most of the remaining light in the area, giving you a pitch-black canvas for the lights to dance across. There are also hiking trails where you can get away from the crowds for an even more secluded experience.

Glerárdalur Valley: About a 30-minute drive from Akureyri, this scenic valley offers jaw-dropping views of the surrounding mountains and fjords. The lack of light pollution and wide open space makes it an ideal location to see the Aurora Borealis in all its glory, especially if you want to capture landscape photos with the lights.
Hlíðarfjall Mountain: For the ultimate Northern Lights experience, head to the top of Hlíðarfjall Mountain. At over 1,000 feet high, it offers a 360 panorama of the night sky and surrounding scenery. The hike to the top takes about 3 hours round trip, so you'll want to start in the late afternoon to reach the summit in time for the light show. The effort is well worth it for the unparalleled views.

The Northern Lights are most active between 10 pm and 3 am in Akureyri, especially around midnight. The best months to see them are from September through March when the nights are the longest. With stunning vistas, minimal light pollution, and optimal viewing conditions, Akureyri should be at the top of your list for an epic Aurora adventure.

Months You Can See the Northern Lights in Akureyri

The best time to see the Northern Lights in Akureyri is between September and March. During these months, the nights are long and dark, providing the perfect canvas for the Aurora Borealis to dance across the sky.

September to October
Fall is a fantastic time to spot the Northern Lights in Akureyri. The summer crowds have dwindled, accommodation rates decrease, and the autumn foliage provides a colorful backdrop for photos. The hours of darkness increase quickly during September and October, giving you more opportunities to see the Aurora.

November to February
The winter months from November to February offer the longest, darkest nights, making them prime time for Northern Lights viewing. You'll have up to 16 hours of potential Aurora-watching each day! Pack warm clothes, as average high temperatures hover around freezing. The holiday season also brings festive cheer to Akureyri which makes it an enchanting place to visit.

March
March sees the return of longer days and warmer temperatures as spring approaches. While the nights are still long enough for potential Northern Lights sightings, viewing conditions may be more limited towards the end of the month. However, the snowy landscapes coupled with the Aurora Borealis can make for stunning photographs.

The Northern Lights are often most visible between 10 pm and 3 am when the sky is darkest. Head to a secluded spot away from city lights for the best views. Some top places near Akureyri to see the Aurora include:

Lake Mývatn - A scenic lake surrounded by volcanic landscapes.
Hlíðarfjall Mountain - Offering panoramic views over Akureyri, this is a popular spot for photographers.
Kjarnaskógur Forest - A peaceful pine forest perfect for Aurora hunting.

So pack your warmest clothes, set your clock for the late hours, and get ready for an unforgettable encounter with the Northern Lights in Akureyri! With the right conditions and a bit of luck, you'll be dazzled by the spectacular Aurora Borealis dancing across the Arctic sky.

Best Times to View the Aurora Borealis in Akureyri

The best time to view the Aurora Borealis in Akureyri is between late August and early April. During these months, the nights are long and dark, providing the perfect backdrop for the Northern Lights to shine through.

Fall and Winter (September to March)
The fall and winter season, from September through March, offers the highest chance of catching the Aurora Borealis in action. The longer nights mean more opportunity to spot the lights dancing across the sky.

September to October and February to March tend to be the shoulder months, with a decent chance of clear skies and Northern Light activity.
November to January sees the most active and frequent light shows, though the colder temperatures may require bundling up!

Nighttime (9 pm to 3 am)
The Aurora Borealis is often most visible between 9 pm and 3 am when the sky is darkest. Head out around 10 or 11 pm to give your eyes time to adjust to the night sky. The later into the night you stay out, the more likely you are to witness the Aurora Borealis in all its glory.

New Moon
Viewing the Northern Lights around the New Moon phase, when there is little to no moonlight, provides the best opportunity to see the Aurora Borealis clearly. The darker the sky, the more prominent the lights will appear. Check an astronomical calendar to plan your trip around the New Moon.

While there’s no guarantee you’ll see the Northern Lights on any given night, following these tips will increase your chances of spotting the Aurora Borealis lighting up the sky over Akureyri. Dress warmly, find a dark secluded spot away from city lights, and be patient - the rewards of witnessing the Aurora Borealis in person are well worth it!

Top Places Near Akureyri to See the Aurora Borealis

1. Lake Mývatn
About an hour east of Akureyri, Lake Mývatn is a top spot for Northern Lights viewing. The lake’s still, icy waters reflect the dancing lights above, doubling the spectacle. Several viewpoints around the lake offer ideal viewing, including the Mývatn Pseudocraters, Dimmuborgir lava fields, and Höfði. The lake area has little light pollution, so the night sky is inky black - perfect for the Aurora Borealis show.

2. Dettifoss Waterfall
Europe’s most powerful waterfall, Dettifoss is a must-see natural wonder. At night, the massive churning waters are illuminated under the Northern Lights. You can view the waterfall from both sides - the more dramatic east side has a short hiking trail to viewpoints overlooking the falls. The west side has parking right up to the canyon edge for easy viewing access. The falls are about a 2-hour drive east of Akureyri.

3. Húsavík
The charming fishing village of Húsavík is considered the whale-watching capital of Iceland. By night, it’s also one of the best places to spot the Northern Lights. Take a stroll along the harbor, where the Aurora reflects off the calm waters of Skjálfandi Bay. The Húsavík Whale Museum and church are also popular spots to view the lights. Húsavík is only a 60-minute drive from Akureyri.

4. Mývatn Nature Baths
Relax in the geothermal waters of the Mývatn Nature Baths while gazing up at the night sky. The Northern Lights frequently dance overhead, reflecting in the mist rising from the hot pools. The baths stay open until late, so you have a good chance of spotting the Aurora while enjoying a soak. Admission to the baths includes towels, lockers and showers. It’s the perfect way to spend an evening under the stars.

5. Goðafoss Waterfall
Meaning “waterfall of the gods,” Goðafoss is one of Iceland’s most stunning waterfalls. At night, the massive horseshoe-shaped falls are illuminated under the Northern Lights. There are viewing platforms and trails on both sides of the river, offering many vantage points to spot the Aurora. Goðafoss is only a 30-minute drive from Akureyri, making it an easy evening excursion.

FAQs About the Northern Lights in Akureyri

What are the best months to see the Northern Lights in Akureyri?
The Northern Lights are visible in Akureyri from late August through early April. The winter months from December to February tend to be the best time to spot the Aurora Borealis since the nights are longer and darker. During these months, you have up to 10-14 hours of complete darkness, giving you more opportunities to see the lights dancing across the sky.

What time is best to view the Northern Lights?
The Northern Lights are often most active between 10 pm and 3 am. However, they can appear at any time of the night, so it’s best to be on alert as soon as darkness falls. The later into the night you stay out, the better your chances are of seeing a spectacular display.

Where are the best places to see the Northern Lights near Akureyri?

Head to the Akureyri Botanical Garden - This scenic garden on a hilltop overlooking the city offers panoramic views and little light pollution.
Visit the Arctic Coast Way - Drive about 15-20 minutes north of Akureyri along the coastline. Pull over at any point with an unobstructed view of the northern sky.
Check out the Akureyri Airport - The airport sits on a high plateau 3 km from the city center. Its open surroundings and lack of bright lights make it an ideal spot for Aurora viewing.
Explore the Kaldi Brewery - About 5 minutes from Akureyri, this renowned craft brewery has minimal light pollution and plenty of open space to set up your camera.
Go to the Kjarnaskógur Forest - A 10-minute drive south of Akureyri, this pine forest offers seclusion under a canopy of trees as well as clearings with panoramic views of the sky.

What should I bring to see the Northern Lights?
Some essential gear to pack includes a camera, tripod, warm clothes, hat, gloves, flashlight, thermos with a hot drink, blanket or sleeping bag to sit on, and a sense of adventure! With the right equipment and patience, you'll be ready to capture the Aurora Borealis in all its glory.

Top Winter Activities in Akureyri Besides Chasing the Northern Lights

Beyond chasing the Northern Lights, Akureyri offers plenty of winter activities to keep you busy during your visit. Bundle up, the fun is just getting started!

Go Dog Sledding
Experience the thrill of dog sledding across the snowy landscape. Several tour companies offer dog sledding tours where you can meet and learn about the huskies, and then go for a ride while taking in the winter scenery. It's a memorable way to get around like the locals!

Take a Snowmobile Tour
If you prefer motorized transport, snowmobiling is a popular option. Zoom over mountain trails and through snow-covered valleys on a guided snowmobile tour. Some tours stop at scenic viewpoints so you can snap photos of the breathtaking winter vistas.

Go Skiing or Snowboarding
With average snow cover from December through March, Akureyri has great conditions for skiing and snowboarding. The Hlidarfjall Ski Area has over a dozen runs for all skill levels. You can rent equipment if you didn't bring your own. Stop for a warm drink at the lodge and soak in the views from the top of the slopes.

Relax in a Hot Spring
After a day of outdoor adventures, your muscles will appreciate a dip in one of Iceland's geothermal hot springs. The Myvatn Nature Baths are only a 30-minute drive from Akureyri. Relax in the mineral-rich waters while surrounded by snowy landscapes - it's the perfect way to unwind!

Take a Sleigh Ride
For a fun family-friendly activity, take a horse-drawn sleigh ride. Bundle under warm blankets while a horse pulls you through the winter countryside. Some sleigh rides stop at a cozy cabin for hot cocoa and cookies. It's like stepping into a winter wonderland!

Between chasing the Northern Lights and enjoying these seasonal activities, you'll never run out of things to do in Akureyri during winter. The snowy season is a magical time to visit this charming Icelandic town.

Conclusion

So there you have it, everything you need to know to plan your Northern Lights adventure in Akureyri. This charming capital of the north is calling your name. Book your tickets, pack your warmest clothes, and get ready for an experience of a lifetime. The dazzling Aurora Borealis awaits you, dancing across the night sky in a vibrant display of greens and reds. Whether you gaze up at the lights from the comfort of the geothermal pool or chase them down a snowy road, the memories you make in Akureyri will stay with you forever. What are you waiting for? The Northern Lights are waiting to put on a show just for you. Get out there and discover the magic of Iceland's winter wonderland.

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