Grótta : Reykjavík : Seek The Aurora, Northern Lights Travel Guide

Reykjavík

Reykjavík, the capital of Iceland, is a vibrant city known for its stunning landscapes, rich culture and as one of the best places to experience the Northern Lights. With its unique blend of urban charm and natural beauty, Reykjavík offers an unforgettable setting for witnessing this spectacular phenomenon.

Why Reykjavík? Reykjavík is surrounded by incredible natural landscapes, making it easy to escape the city lights for optimal Northern Lights viewing. The city is rich in history and culture, featuring numerous museums, galleries and geothermal spas. Take a day trip to visit the Golden Circle, including Þingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area and Gullfoss waterfall. The best months for Northern Lights viewing are from September to April, with peak viewing opportunities during the winter months when nights are longer.

Weather conditions can change rapidly, so keep your plans flexible to enhance your chances of witnessing the Aurora.

A trip to Reykjavík for the Northern Lights is a fantastic way to experience Iceland’s natural beauty and vibrant culture. Whether you’re hunting for the Aurora or exploring the city’s rich offerings, Reykjavík provides a perfect backdrop for an unforgettable adventure.

How are my chances of seeing the aurora today?

Many factors contribute to your likelihood of viewing the aurora in Reykjavík. 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

89%

There is a 89% chance of seeing the aurora overhead in the Reykjavík area (forecast for 14 March 2026 at 3:37am UTC)

Kp 5.67

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 108 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 -7 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 10 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 0.47 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 662.5 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

Waning crescent 30%

Sunrise 7:50am

Sunset 7:23pm

Moonrise 8:37am

Moonset 11:35am

Weather Forecast for Reykjavík

Clouds

-2°C Feels like -2°C

High: 3°C
Low: -2°C

Chance of precipitation 0%
Cloud cover 19%
Easterly winds 9 km/h gusts of 17 km/h

Book an amazing adventure in Reykjavík

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

Free cancellation

Small-Group Ice Cave Tour from Jökulsárlón

4.8 (278)

2 hours 30 minutes From £144.08

Discover the magic of Iceland on a thrilling ice cave tour inside Vatnajökull, Europe's largest glacier. This 2.5- to 3-hour guided adventure takes you deep into crystal-blue ice formations, offering unforgettable photo opportunities and expert insight into glacial geology. Departing from Hólmur, this tour is perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone seeking a unique Arctic experience. Book your Vatnajökull Ice Cave Tour today and explore one of Iceland’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders.
Free cancellation Likely to sell out

Small Group: Golden Circle Tour from Reykjavik Cruise Terminals

4.5 (46)

6 hours 30 minutes From £123.90

Step off your cruise ship and into an unforgettable Icelandic adventure with our exclusive small group Golden Circle tour. This meticulously planned 6.5-hour excursion ensures you experience the raw beauty and geological wonders of Iceland's most celebrated route, all while enjoying the comfort and personalized attention of a small group setting. Walk between tectonic plates at Thingvellir, witness the powerful Strokkur geyser eruptions, and be awestruck by Gullfoss waterfall. Our knowledgeable guide will enrich your journey with fascinating insights, making this more than just a sightseeing trip. This tour guarantees a timely return to your vessel. Experience the unique geological landscapes and iconic waterfalls without the crowds, creating lasting memories of Iceland's extraordinary beauty. Don't miss this opportunity to maximize your time ashore and immerse yourself in the natural wonders of the Golden Circle.
Free cancellation

Golden Circle & Secret Lagoon Small-Group Tour from Reykjavik

4.8 (1908)

8 hours From £128.75

Indulge in a tour of the Golden Circle - the relaxing way, and explore some of Iceland's most famous sights, including Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall and the Geysir hot spring. Plus, see the erupting geyser Strokkur in Haukadalur geothermal area and visit the Secret Lagoon hot spring bath. Your tour begins with a mid-morning pickup from the city centre or cruise port. Board a climate-controlled minivan destined for the Golden Circle route. Over the course of the morning, stop at Gullfoss Waterfall, the Geysir Geyser, and Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates collide. On this tour, you will also spend free time soaking in the Secret Lagoon hot spring pool.
Free cancellation

Northern Lights Tour: Cozy Night Adventure with Hot Chocolate

5.0 (17)

4 hours From £59.75

We combine the expertise of dedicated aurora hunters with an exceptional focus on comfort and a cozy, shared experience. While all tours chase the lights, our guides are specialists in local microclimates and real-time solar activity. We don't just drive to a fixed spot; we use dynamic routing to find the clearest, darkest patch of sky, maximizing your viewing chances far away from the city's light pollution. The journey itself is part of the experience. You travel in a comfortable, warm vehicle and enjoy the famous Icelandic hospitality with a complimentary hot chocolate as you wait beneath the stars. This transforms the hunt into a relaxed, memorable gathering with fellow travelers. You leave the stress of driving on dark, icy roads to us, allowing you to focus completely on the sky.
Free cancellation

Northern Lights 4x4 Tour PRO Photos Drinks Snacks from Reykjavik

4.6 (5)

4 hours From £102.69

Seeing the Northern Lights is a highlight of any trip to Iceland, but finding them on your own can be challenging. This small-group 4x4 Northern Lights tour from Reykjavik is led by experienced local guides who use real-time forecasts and local knowledge to chase the best viewing conditions each night. There’s no fixed route—just smart decisions based on cloud cover, aurora activity, and road conditions. Travel away from city lights in a comfortable 4x4 vehicle, reaching quieter locations that regular buses can’t access. When conditions are right, enjoy the moment while your guide captures professional photos of the aurora and of you—shared after the tour. Why choose this tour: • Maximize your chances with experienced local aurora guides • Small-group experience in a 4x4 vehicle • Escape city lights. Enjoy warm drinks and snacks. • Free rebooking if no Aurora appears - come back at no extra cost • Professional Northern Lights photos included • Pickup/drop-off from Reykjavik included
Free cancellation

South Iceland, Glacier and Black Sand Beach Small Group Tour

4.7 (233)

10 hours From £104.99

An ideal retreat for nature lovers that travel with a small group on this awe-inspiring route to the southernmost tip of Iceland. On this scenic trip to Vik, embark on a journey to some of Iceland's most iconic, natural monuments. The South Coast of Iceland shows off its Waterfalls, Volcanoes, Glaciers and Black Sand Beaches all in one day something you cannot experience anywhere else in such a period of time. This 10-hour tour is led by a professional guide with a maximum group size of 18 people.

Places to check out around Reykjavík

12 Tónar

Record Store
Bakarí Sandholt

Bakery
Bastard Brew and Food

Brewery
Bláa lónið (Blue Lagoon)

Hot Spring
Brauð & Co

Bakery
Bruarfoss

Waterfall
Fish Company

Seafood Restaurant
Fiskmarkaðurinn | Fish Market

Seafood Restaurant
Gamla / Old Iceland

Restaurant
Gjáin

Other Great Outdoors
Glymur

Waterfall
Grasagarðurinn

Garden
Grótta

Lighthouse
Gullfoss

Waterfall
Háífoss

Waterfall
Hallgrímskirkja

Church
Harpa

Concert Hall
Hjálparfoss

Waterfall
Hljómskálagarður

Garden
Höfnin

Seafood Restaurant
Hrunalaug

Hot Spring
Icelandic Street Food

Scandinavian Restaurant
Kaldi Bar/Café

Bar
Kerið

Lake
Klambratún

Park
Laugardalslaug

Swimming Pool
Laugardalurinn

Park
Messinn

Seafood Restaurant
Öskjuhlíð

Park
OTO

Japanese Restaurant
Öxarárfoss

Waterfall
Perlan

Scenic Lookout
Reykjadalur

Hot Spring
Reykjavik Harbour

Harbor or Marina
Reykjavík Roasters

Coffee Shop
Seltjarnarnespottur

Hot Spring
Skúli Craft Bar

Bar
Sky Lagoon

Spa
Slippbarinn

Bar
SNAPS

Bistro
Sólfar / Sun Voyager

Outdoor Sculpture
Stóri Geysir

Hot Spring
Sümac

Lebanese Restaurant
Þingvellir National Park (Þingvellir þjóðgarður)

National Park
Þjóðveldisbær

Other Great Outdoors
Valdís

Ice Cream Parlor
Vesturbæjarlaug

Swimming Pool
Ylströndin í Nauthólsvík | Nauthólsvík Geothermal Beach

Hot Spring

Explore more nearby Reykjavík

Credit: aiden patrissi

Hveragerði

63°59'54"N, 21°11'18"W

Aurora probability in Hveragerði: 88%

Hveragerði, Iceland, is a unique town renowned for its geothermal activity, offering visitors a chance to experience hot springs, greenhouses and a vibrant connection with nature.
Credit: Freysteinn G. Jonsson

Eyrarbakki

63°51'42"N, 21°8'28"W

Aurora probability in Eyrarbakki: 88%

A charming village on the south coast of Iceland, Eyrarbakki boasts a rich history, colourful wooden houses and a picturesque harbour, offering a delightful glimpse into Iceland’s past and present.
Credit: Job Savelsberg

Borgarnes

64°32'40"N, 21°54'37"W

Aurora probability in Borgarnes: 88%

Borgarnes, a charming town in West Iceland, offers a blend of history and natural beauty, with its quaint harbour, views of the surrounding mountains and close proximity to several of Iceland’s iconic attractions.