Solheimasandur Black Sand Beach : Vík : Seek The Aurora

Vík

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Vík í Mýrdal, commonly known as Vík, is a small village located on the southern coast of Iceland. It is renowned for its stunning black sand beaches, dramatic cliffs, and proximity to several natural wonders, making it a popular destination for travelers seeking to experience Iceland’s unique landscapes.

Vík is situated near the Mýrdalsjökull glacier and the famous Reynisfjara black sand beach, known for its basalt columns and powerful Atlantic waves. The village also serves as a gateway to explore nearby attractions such as the Dyrhólaey promontory, Skógafoss waterfall, and the Fjaðrárgljúfur canyon.

While Vík itself is a small settlement with limited amenities, it offers a range of accommodations, restaurants, and tour services catering to visitors. The village’s remote location provides excellent opportunities for stargazing and witnessing the Northern Lights during the winter months.

Credit: Julia Solonina
Credit: Rostyslav Savchyn
Credit: Marc-Antoine
Credit: Maksim Romashkin
Credit: Sebastian Palomino
Credit: Mariusz Walczuk
Credit: Raul Taciu

How are my chances of seeing the aurora today?

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

48%

There is a 48% chance of seeing the aurora overhead in the Vík area (forecast for 11 January 2026 at 8:29pm UTC)

Kp 5.00

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 76 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 -3 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 5 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 2.54 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 550.7 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.

Moon

Waning crescent 44%

Sunrise 10:43am

Sunset 4:04pm

Moonrise 3:22am

Moonset 11:26am

Clear

-1°C Feels like -8°C

High: -1°C
Low: -3°C

Chance of precipitation 0%
Cloud cover 9%
Northerly winds 10 km/h gusts of 13 km/h

Book an amazing adventure in Vík

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

Free cancellation

Katla Volcano Ice Cave - Super Jeep Tour from Vik

4.4 (198)

3 hours From £179.60

Join us on an exhilarating Super Jeep adventure from Vík í Mýrdal to explore the spectacular Katla Ice Cave, on the mighty Mýrdalsjökull glacier. This glacier is one of Iceland’s most famous, and from it flows the powerful Kötlujökull glacier, named after the legendary Katla volcano. Over time, this massive glacier has slowly crept down the volcanic slopes, carving out some of Iceland’s most awe-inspiring natural ice caves. On the glacier you’ll witness a dramatic fusion of crystal-blue ice and deep-black volcanic ash—a surreal contrast that feels straight out of a fantasy film. Led by experienced local guides in a specially modified Super Jeep, this off-the-beaten-path journey promises unforgettable views, fascinating geology, and one of the most unique photo ops Iceland has to offer. You’ll understand the magic the moment you step on the ice.
Free cancellation

Blue Ice Classic: Sólheimajökull Glacier Hike & Ice Climbing

4.7 (150)

4 hours 30 minutes From £149.52

Add more adventure to your glacier hike! This tour includes optional introductory ice climbing - an exciting chance for beginners and adventurers alike to scale an ice wall with expert guidance. This is a small group adventure, limited to 8 participants per glacier guide, ensuring a more personalized experience. Your guides are not only experienced but specially certified to lead glacier and climbing tours, providing both safety and deep geological insights. Sólheimajökull is less crowded than Iceland’s more tourist-heavy spots, offering an authentic and immersive glacier experience. All skill levels are welcome. This tour is designed to be accessible even to those with no climbing or glacier experience. The tour from Reykjavík incudes sightseeing stops at Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls. Relax and take in views of the South Coast - we handle the driving.
Free cancellation

Sólheimajökull Blue Ice Cave & Glacier Walk

5.0 (1)

3 hours 30 minutes From £143.53

Explore the stunning Sólheimajökull Glacier on a thrilling hike that includes a visit to a newly discovered blue ice cave. This 3,5-hour guided adventure begins at the Base Camp where you’ll receive all necessary equipment, including crampons and an ice axe. Traverse breathtaking glacier formations and deep crevasses while learning about the glacier’s geology from an expert guide. After marveling at the crystal blue tunnel inside the cave, return across the glacier to the Base Camp, enriched by a unique Icelandic experience. - Glacier hike duration: 4 hours with a moderate difficulty - Minimum age requirement: 10 years - Professional guide with knowledge of glacier geology - All equipment provided, including crampons and ice axes for safety
Free cancellation

Lava Show Vik Admission Ticket

4.9 (1173)

55 minutes From £40.10

This is the only live LAVA SHOW in the world where you can safely experience real molten lava up close in a controlled environment. A sensory loaded experience that is both educational and awe-inspiring. A one-of-a-kind experience that is unlike anything else you've ever seen or done.
Free cancellation

Ice Cave Tour from Vík

4.8 (728)

3 hours From £167.08

Hands down the fastest way to experience a Ice Cave in Iceland! If your trip is short and action-packed, seeing an ice cave may seem like it would be impossible for you to have on your agenda, but with us, it was never so easy!
Free cancellation Special offer Likely to sell out

Katla Ice Cave Tour from Vik Small-Group Guided Adventure

4.4 (85)

3 hours From £149.52

Prepare for an epic Vik to Mýrdalsjökull 4x4 adventure! Our rugged vehicle will conquer challenging terrains as we journey from Vik to the magnificent Mýrdalsjökull glacier. The highlight? Exploring the extraordinary Katla Ice Cave, nestled within the glacier. Named after the formidable Katla volcano resting beneath, this ice cave is a natural masterpiece. Inside, you'll be mesmerized by the enchanting sight of blue and black ice formations—a testament to nature's artistry. After your Katla Ice Cave adventure, we embark on a thrilling return journey to Vik. Along the way, capture more of Iceland's rugged beauty, making this trip a photographer's dream. This Vik to Mýrdalsjökull 4x4 expedition offers the perfect blend of adventure and natural beauty. So, gear up, hop on board, and get ready for an unforgettable journey from Vik to Mýrdalsjökull in a 4x4, with Katla Ice Cave as our ultimate target. Book now for an adventure that will leave you in awe!