Iceland Northern Lights

What are the northern lights?
The aurora borealis, or northern lights, appears when solar wind particles collide with air molecules in the earth’s atmosphere, transferring their energy into light. Displays can vary in intensity – from a glowing curtain of greenish yellow lights dancing in the distance to a spectacular, multi-coloured fusion stretching across the sky – but whatever one you’re lucky enough to have, it will no doubt make you want to see more.

However, it must be remembered that sightings of the northern lights can never be guaranteed, even when the conditions seem just right - a clear cloudless night is essential and for the most intense sightings, it is important to be away from any sources of artificial light, such as street lighting. Sightings not only vary in intensity but in duration too, from just minutes to sometimes hours.

Where is the best place to view the northern lights?
Although the northern lights can at times be seen as far south as the UK, you really need to travel north and visit such places as Iceland, Lapland, Canada and Greenland during the darkest months of November to March for the best opportunities possible. Potentially though, nature’s own light show can be seen in October and March. Two locations considered some of the best in the world to view the northern lights include the virtually cloud-free sky at Abisko Mountain Station, situated within the Abisko National Park in Swedish Lapland, and Hotel Ranga in south Iceland.

When is the best time to see the northern lights?
Usually during the darkest period which is between November and February, although they can be seen as early as late August and as late as mid April. However, the phases of the moon also have an affect. If you have a full moon then it can greatly detract from the spectacle, whereas around the time of the new moon, if sightings are possible then they should be at their best.

Northern lights photography tips
1) A sturdy and preferably heavy tripod is essential since exposure time exceeds 10 - 20 seconds. you cannot achieve the best results hand-holding your camera.
2) Bring the fastest wide angle lens you own, f2.8 is good enough, f2.4 is better and f1.4 is best
3) Use a good digital camera or film camera with at least 400 asa film.
4) Wear warm clothes and boots as you can spend several hours standing still in cold weather. It is better to be overdressed.

See northern lights holidays in Iceland »