Iceland's dramatic landscapes of glaciers, waterfalls, and volcanoes are stunning by day, but the night sky steals the show in winter.
When to Go
To see the Northern Lights, you need darkness and clear skies. The best time to visit is from late September to late March. The longer nights increase your chances significantly.
Getting Out of the City
Light pollution makes it difficult to see the aurora. Book a guided tour or rent a car to drive out into the countryside for the best viewing conditions.
Patience and Warmth
Aurora hunting requires immense patience. Dress in thick thermal layers, pack a thermos of hot cocoa, and be prepared to wait out in the freezing cold. The payoff, however, is pure magic.