Find the best places in the world to view the Northern Lights

Plan your northern lights trip with expert travel advice, real-time aurora forecasts and destination guides. Whether you’re chasing the aurora borealis across Scandinavia, Iceland or the Canadian wilderness, we’ll help you find the best time and place to witness one of nature’s most spectacular displays.

Canada

Dark skies and breathtaking wilderness, one of the best places to experience the northern lights in all their glory.

Banff •Churchill •Edmonton •Jasper •Whitehorse •Yellowknife

Faroe Islands

Dramatic landscapes with pristine dark skies, an exceptional place to witness the northern lights with a truly unique setting.

Tórshavn

Finland

Enjoy stunning aurora displays from cozy glass igloos or snowy forests in the magical northern wilderness.

Inari •Levi •Luosto •Rovaniemi

Greenland

The remote wilderness and minimal light pollution offer a breathtaking, serene setting to witness the northern lights in their purest form.

Ilulissat •Kangerlussuaq •Nuuk •Qaqortoq

Iceland

Breathtaking landscapes and long winter nights provide a spectacular backdrop for witnessing the aurora in a truly unforgettable setting.

Akureyri •Reykjavík •Vík

Norway

Stunning fjords and snowy peaks provide a breathtaking backdrop to the northern lights in one of the best locations to witness this natural spectacle.

Alta •Bodø •Lofoten •Tromsø

Shetland

A remote location and dark skies offer opportunities to witness the northern lights over rugged coastlines and peaceful seascapes.

Lerwick

Svalbard

Polar nights in the high arctic offer exceptional chances to witness the northern lights dancing across pristine, icy landscapes.

Longyearbyen

Sweden

Clear winter nights and pristine wilderness create an ideal place to experience the aurora in a magical Arctic setting.

Abisko •Björkliden •Kiruna

USA

Alaska’s vast wilderness and clear, dark skies create perfect conditions for experiencing the northern lights in a breathtaking natural setting.

Anchorage •Fairbanks •Healy

See also

Aurora Forecast•​Planning Your Northern Lights Adventure•​Northern Lights Photography•​Science Of The Aurora•​Northern Lights Playlist•​Northern Lights Myths And Legends•​About Seek The Aurora

Akureyri

Home / Iceland / Akureyri

Akureyri, often referred to as the "Capital of North Iceland," is a charming town that offers a fantastic opportunity to witness the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) in a stunning natural setting. With its picturesque landscapes, vibrant culture and proximity to various outdoor activities, Akureyri is an ideal spot for travelers seeking the magic of the Aurora.

Nestled at the base of the Eyjafjörður fjord, Akureyri is surrounded by mountains and lush landscapes, providing a breathtaking backdrop for Northern Lights viewing.

The prime time for Northern Lights sightings is from September to April, with the best chances occurring during the darkest months of winter (December to February).

A visit to Akureyri for the Northern Lights presents a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. Only a short flight from Reykjavík why not combine both for an unforgettable Icelandic adventure.

How are my chances of seeing the aurora today?

Many factors contribute to your likelihood of viewing the aurora in Akureyri. Geomagnetic activity, cloud cover and the amount of ambient light all play a big part. Check the forecasts for how good the viewing conditions are today.

Aurora Probability and Atmospheric Conditions

15%

There is a 15% chance of seeing the aurora overhead in the Akureyri area (forecast for 27 May 2026 at 9:13pm UTC)

Kp 3.00

The Kp-index is a scale used to measure geomagnetic activity. It ranges from 0 to 9, with higher values indicating greater geomagnetic activity.

  • 0-2 (Very low) Far north, quite dim, and not very active.
  • 3-5 (Moderate) Can be seen further south, with increased brightness and activity. Chance of good viewing conditions nearer the pole.
  • 6-7 (High) Visible in many northern regions, with vibrant displays.
  • 8-9 (Extreme) Widespread visibility, often seen in areas much further south than usual, with intense and colorful displays.
HPI 23 GW

The Hemispheric Power Index (HPI) is a vital measure used to assess the strength of auroral activity at the poles. It estimates the total auroral energy input, with values above 20 GW indicating an aurora-active state. When the HPI reaches levels of 100 GW or more, it signifies a very significant geomagnetic storm, which can lead to spectacular auroral displays.

Bz -2 nT

Bz refers to the north-south orientation of the magnetic field embedded in the solar wind. It is measured in nanoteslas (nT).

When Bz is negative (southward), it allows solar wind particles to penetrate the Earth’s magnetic field more easily. A strong negative Bz is often associated with increased chances of seeing the Northern Lights.

Conversely, when Bz is positive (northward), the Earth’s magnetic field tends to block the solar wind, resulting in reduced aurora activity.

Bt 7 nT

Bt measures the overall power of the Interplanetary Magnetic Field (IMF) from the Sun; higher numbers (e.g., above 20 nT) mean more energy available for aurora.

Density 5.96 p/cm3

Solar wind density refers to the number of charged particles in a given volume of the solar wind, typically measured in particles per cubic centimetre (p/cm3).

A typical solar wind density is around 2.76 p/cm3.

The density of the solar wind affects how many particles reach the Earth’s magnetosphere. A higher density means more particles are available to interact with the Earth’s magnetic field. When these charged particles collide with the gases in the Earth’s atmosphere, energy is released in the form of light that we see as the aurora.

Speed 385.0 km/s

Solar wind speed refers to the velocity at which charged particles are ejected from the Sun’s outer atmosphere, known as the corona.

A typical solar wind speed is about 375 km/s. When both speed and density are high, the energy transferred to the Earth’s magnetosphere increases, enhancing the chances of seeing vibrant auroras.

Light Levels

Moon

Waxing gibbous 76%

Sunrise 2:52am

Sunset 11:26pm

Moonrise 6:41pm

Moonset 2:18am

Weather Forecast for Akureyri

Clouds

12°C Feels like 10°C

High
12°C
Low
6°C

  • Chance of precipitation 3%

  • Cloud cover 99%

  • South-Westerly winds 6 km/h gusts of 8 km/h

Book an amazing adventure in Akureyri

Explore this selection of tours and activities to make the most of your visit to Akureyri.

  • Free cancellation Special offer

    Lake Myvatn Day Tour and Godafoss Waterfall for Cruise Ships from Akureyri Port

    4.5 (477)

    5 - 6 hours From £134.86

    Discover the magical wonderland of Lake Myvatn and Godafoss Waterfall with an experienced local tour guide. We set off from Akureryi Port stopping at the stunning Godafoss waterfall and then onto the famous Lake Myvatn area. in Lake Myvatn area we visit the Dimmuborgir Lava formations and the Námafjall area where you can view the bubbling Hverir Mud pools and Natural steam vents or fumaroles. We also stop at Myvatn Nature Baths where you can enjoy the baths and cafe (Please note the entrance fee to the Nature Baths is NOT included). Passengers can also opt to skip the Nature bath and visit Grjotagja cave and rift instead. This great value tour includes a small group tour with an experienced local tour guide and transport. We offer free pick up and drop off to Akureyri Port.

  • Free cancellation Special offer

    Lake Myvatn, Hot-Springs & Godafoss Waterfall Tour from Akureyri

    4.4 (480)

    6 hours From £123.59

    Our 6 hour Lake Mývatn, Hot-springs & Godafoss Waterfall Tour from Akureyri is the perfect introduction to north Iceland. Visit Lake Mývatn, a region whose landscape has been sculpted thousands of years of volcanic activity. See the craters of Skútustaðir, the lava formations at Dimmuborgir, a stunning waterfall and much more besides. A delicious packed meal is included with your tour ticket.

  • Free cancellation

    Whale Watching from Downtown Akureyri

    4.6 (991)

    3 hours From £78.58

    Experience the incredible humpback whales in Iceland's longest fjord, Eyjafjörður, aboard our specially modified sightseeing boat. This is a family friendly and great value whale watching tour, operated all year round from Akureyri, North Iceland. Elding Whale Watching Akureyri is an environmentally friendly company and recognised worldwide for its environmental efforts. Our mission and goal is to minimise the operational impact on the environment while offering an unforgettable experience at sea. We abide by a code of conduct for responsible whale watching, ensuring the wellbeing of the wildlife in our waters.

  • Free cancellation

    From Akureyri Port: Godafoss Waterfall Tour for Cruise Ships (V)

    4.5 (44)

    2 hours 30 minutes From £57.29

    A scenic and memorable excursion in Iceland to the majestic Godafoss Waterfall. Godafoss is one of the most spectacular and historic waterfalls in Iceland. The name means the "waterfall of the gods". The waterfall is about 12 meters high (36 feet) and 30 meters wide (90 feet), and it forms a horseshoe shape that creates a stunning spectacle of water and mist. You will have about 45 minutes to explore the waterfall and take photos of this natural wonder. After admiring the waterfall, you will board the bus again and head back to Akureyri but not exactly the same way. You will drive through the beautiful Fnjoskadalur Valley, up to the mountains and down to the Eyjafordur Bay with astonishing view. The Eyjafjordur Bay is the longest in Iceland, and surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Before you arrive to Akureyri the bus will stop at the Akureyri Viewpoint so you can enjoy the view over the town of Akureyri, the Bay and the mountains, and take pictures!

  • Free cancellation

    Godafoss Waterfall Shore Excursion From Akureyri Port

    4.5 (26)

    2 hours From £61.70

    Visit the beautiful Godafoss Waterfall also known as the "Waterfall of the Gods". The tour suits cruise ship passengers perfectly as it is a short drive from Akureyri with a guaranteed return to ship. We will pick you up at the pier and drive to Godafoss and there we would spend 1 hour which gives our clients pleanty enough time to take in the beautiful surroundings.

  • Free cancellation

    Akureyri Port: Hot Godafoss Waterfall Tour & The Forest Lagoon

    4.8 (4)

    4 hours From £117.23

    A scenic and memorable excursion to the majestic Godafoss Waterfall, including Geothermal bathing. You will drive through the beautiful countryside of northern Iceland, where you will see stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. But you will also learn about the history and culture of Iceland from your knowledgeable guide. Learn about the Godafoss waterfall , one of the most spectacular and historic waterfalls in Iceland. After admiring the waterfall, you will head back to Akureyri but not exactly the same way. You will drive through the beautiful Fnjoskadalur Valley, up to the mountains and down to the Eyjafordur Bay with astonishing view. Photo-stop at the Akureyri Viewpoint to enjoy the view over the town of Akureyri! Now it time to discover one of the gems of Akureyri. Ready for an adventure? A geothermal spa: The Forest lagoon. There are geothermal pools, a sauna, a relaxing lounge and an in-water pool bar. Enjoy the warm water, the song of the birds and the view!

Places to check out around Akureyri

Explore more nearby Akureyri

  • Husavik port with welcoming lights in late evening

    Credit: ArtHouse Studio

    Húsavík

    66°2'50"N, 17°20'38"W

    Aurora probability in Húsavík: 15%

    Húsavík, Iceland, is a charming town known as the Whale Watching Capital of Europe. It offers visitors incredible opportunities to see various whale species in their natural habitat, along with stunning coastal landscapes and a rich cultural heritage.

  • Aurora borealis over lake Mývatn, northern Iceland

    Credit: Martin Brechtl

    Mývatn

    65°36'14"N, 16°59'45"W

    Aurora probability in Mývatn: 15%

    Mývatn in Northern Iceland, is a stunning lake region renowned for its unique volcanic landscapes, rich birdlife and geothermal activity, offering visitors a captivating blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventures.

  • A view of Siglufjörður, Iceland with colourful buildings along the waterfront

    Credit: Alena Timofeeva

    Siglufjörður

    66°9'0"N, 18°54'37"W

    Aurora probability in Siglufjörður: 15%

    Siglufjörður, Iceland, is a picturesque fishing town nestled in a fjord, known for its rich herring industry history, charming architecture and stunning natural surroundings, making it a captivating destination for visitors seeking both culture and scenic beauty.

Other places in Iceland

Reykjavík•​Vík

See also

Home•​Aurora Forecast•​Planning Your Northern Lights Adventure•​Northern Lights Photography•​Science Of The Aurora•​Northern Lights Playlist•​Northern Lights Myths And Legends•​About Seek The Aurora