[See more of Reykjavik:Things to Do|Hotels|When to Visit|Photos]. And if you have been to Iceland in December, how was it? This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content. Have other questions about seeing the northern lights in Iceland? To prepare for this, ensure you have warm headwear and gloves, thermal undergarments, windproof and waterproof outer layers, and warm clothes in between. Full membership to the IDM is for researchers who are fully committed to conducting their research in the IDM, preferably accommodated in the IDM complex, for 5-year terms, which are renewable. Driving into the highlands isn't possible unless you join this day tour of Landmannalaugar in a super jeep. Not only will they be able to take you directly to the best places to see and photograph the lights, but they'll also offer handy tips and advice on camera settings, focus, and perspective. They're almost impossible to catch from May to September because of the midnight sun. There's also an adorable gift shop in Hafnarfjordur that sells Christmas goodies and confections. Is the Blue Lagoon open in December? If you have little experience driving in snowy conditions and rural areas, you may feel more comfortable on a guided tour. Since the Blue Lagoon is away from the city, theres less light pollution than in Reykjavik. Animal lovers visiting Iceland in November can also take part in a rather unexpectedsport: dogsledding! At the height of summer in Iceland, you cannot see the northern lights because of the extended hours of daylight. Its Aurora Adventure tour, which takes you to a nearby glacier, is a popular way to go searching for the Northern Lights. But wherever your route takes you, you can guarantee that when it comes to Icelandic horses, you're on reliable hooves. per adult. They can explain the phenomenon to you, answering all your aurora-related questions while helping you with your camera settings. Tour operators ensure you're safe and provide you with all the equipment you'll need for your descent, including crampons and a helmet. Car rentals in Iceland can also monitor if their cars are driven outside of legal parameters, so you might face a hefty fine when returning the car. Better food for more people. The auroras only appear near the Earths magnetic poles. The rocky cliffs Ltrabjarg is well-known for being the home of millions of bird species. While Iceland certainly isn't the only place in the world to view this natural wonder, the Nordic country's prime location near the Arctic Circle means the light show can be visible for more than 100 nights per year. Winter in Iceland is exactly when ice caving begins to become almost perfect, and exploring them is just the experience you need to make the most of your holiday. 191. The best place to see the northern lights in Iceland is the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, which lies by the Vatnajokull glacier. Youll also be able to reach places larger buses cant go and get to the most remote viewing locations by traveling over rivers and down bumpy trails. In case youre not familiar with the science behind this amazing astronomical phenomenon, heres a quick explanation. However, it's one of the busiest and most popular places in the whole of Iceland, so you'll want to make sure you book your visit well in advance. Early November still has around eight hours of daylight each day, but that reduces fairly quickly over the course of the month. Well, you're in luck. Alternatively, you can join a Northern Lights minibus tour or the Northern Lights and Stargazing small group tour from Reykjavik. Suggest edits to improve what we show. There are a few quiet corners ofthe city where the lights are more likely to be visible. At different times, people have been able to control the lights by playing a light organ, splashing the color of their choice on the hall through their phone, or playing the computer game Pong using the building as a monitor. These excursions are led by experienced guides who know Iceland's road conditions well and are also very knowledgeable about the aurora borealis and where to find them. There are four common ways to see the northern lights in Iceland: Well cover each of them below, starting with the best places to see the northern lights in Iceland. Indias largest Food Delivery, Dining and Restaurant Discovery Service. They may even sit everyone down in the bowels of the cave and instruct you to turn off your headlamps to experience the pitch-blackness surrounding you. If you've already been, how was your holiday experience in November in Iceland? Outside the city, temperatures tend to drop even lower, particularly in high-altitude placeslike theIcelandic Highlands. Htel Hsafell also offers a complimentary aurora wake-up service so you don't miss the show. If you have a more extended holiday, you can spend extra time seeing more of Reykjavik and finishing up your Christmas shopping. You can't just hop in your swimming costume and get in the water. When was Guide to Iceland founded and why? Grotta Lighthouse at the north-westernmost point of Reykjavik is a great place to watch the Northern Lights over the water. It's not just coastal locations that boast such great birdwatching opportunities. Well, before you pack your bags, let's answer an important question: What's the weather like in November in Iceland? The best way to do that is to take a northern lights tour with a transfer from Reykjavik and into the countryside. The Solheimajokull glacier and Skaftafellsjokull glacier are relatively easy to hike at this time of year. The festival has come on a long way since its first appearance in 1999, which was held in an aircraft hangar at Reykjavik airport. On day eight, you'll head back to Keflavik Airport for your flight home. If you're nervous about driving in wintry conditions, it's a good idea to stick to organized tours instead. In fact, the name Reykjavik translates to smoky bay because of the plumes erupting from local springs. New caves and networks are made every year, meaning that every visitor to Iceland gets to witness something unique. Even if all the conditions listed above seem perfect, nature can be fickle, and the northern lights still may not show. The light pollution in Iceland's capital and most populous city sometimes drowns out the northern lights, although particularly bright auroras can still be visible in Reykjavik. It's fantastic fun and an amazing way to experience Iceland's sweeping, snow-covered countryside. What to see in Iceland in December? These Icelandic locales draw visitors for reasons beyond just seeking out the northern lights. How has Guide to Iceland changed since its conception? Learn everything you need to know about visiting the ice caves in Iceland. These tours have much smaller groups, so you have more opportunities to speak with your guide and fewer people around you while youre watching the northern lights. The choice is yours. One of the best ice caving tours is this one that takes you to ice caves at Vatnajokull glacier. The capital's climate is warmer than the rest of the country, and it tends only to be covered in snow sporadically between January and April. The winter months are obviously the best time to explore Iceland's gigantic ice caps. Find out what the aurora borealis are and the best places to see them, even in Reykjavik. per adult. The most important thing to decide before arriving is whether or not you'll rent a four-wheel drive vehicle and drive yourself. The event is hugely popular among locals, and participants often dress up in costumes to win prizes. (Note: Some of the following activities, attractions and locations may be affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. You'll also need sturdy hiking boots if you're planning to do some exploring. All glacier guides in Iceland are well-trained and highly experienced, and they'll be able to ensure your safety and enjoyment during the hike. You can catch the Northern Lights throughout Iceland but Grtta lighthouse, on the country's northwesternmost point, is a particularly good spot to see them. These forecast methods only estimate the likelihood of spotting the aurora in the coming days unfortunately, longer-range predictions (for example, weeks or months in advance) are less reliable. You can also get a transfer from Gullfoss waterfall for a 1-hour snowmobiling adventure. There are also many awards handed out to those who have helped promote Icelandic literature and language over the last year. In December, the glaciers have changed from a mix of white snow and black ash to vivid blue ice, and they advance into the reserve, making a hike there short and easy. To prepare for this battle, Odin, the Chieftain of Asgard, would summon his most prized warriors, the Valkyries, female battle-maidens who rode on horseback carrying spears and shields. After the run (or some pre-partying), there's also the famous Reykjavik nightlife for you to enjoy! It should come as little surprise, then, that there are some top-notch cafes on almost every street corner in downtown Reykjavik. My name is Valerie, and I'm the founder of Space Tourism Guide! In the capital, the great Oslo Christmas Tree (yes, it's a gift from Norway) is lit at Austurvollur public squareto signal the start of the Christmas season and the event is very popular. The entrances to both caves are vast, with steps that lead to wooden pathways. per adult. Icelanders hold the biggest Christmas gatherings on Christmas Even and traditionally exchange gifts after dinner. Travelers liked the helpful guides, but some caution that it gets extra cold out on the water. While specific northern lights tours may put more of a focus on tracking down the aurora with tour guides keeping an eye on forecasts, any multiday tour could offer a peek at the natural light show if conditions are right. For example, the Icelandic term for acomputeris "tlva,"comprised of the words "to count" and "oracle.". Relaxing in a hot spring is a local ritual that you simply have to try! This Friday, were taking a look at Microsoft and Sonys increasingly bitter feud over Call of Duty and whether U.K. regulators are leaning toward torpedoing the Activision Blizzard deal. When was Guide to Iceland founded and why? Suggest edits to improve what we show. Whats an ice cave, and how does it differ from a glacier cave? Admire them, by all means, but keep over 100 feet (30 meters) away from the water's edge because of the notorious sneaker waves along this stretch. Vatnajokull, the largest glacier in Europe, is the most common destination because of the incredible sites surrounding it, which are accessible throughout the winter. The former is located on the south coast between Skogafoss waterfall and Vik, and you can take a Solheimajokull glacier hike day tour. What is Guide to Iceland? I founded STG to help others learn about and experience the night sky. Check out all the best tours in Iceland in December, and for your convenience, you can find all the top winter tours and packages here. Jonah Flicker of Pitchfork Magazine cited the festival's "unbelievable zest for music and celebration." Whale watching tours are available from several ports in various parts of the country, but the most popular are inReykjavik, and the 'whale watching capital of Europe'Husavikin North Iceland. Golden Circle Afternoon and Northern Lights Tour from Reykjavik. Magma Hotel is a 12-room hotel in South Iceland surrounded by the Eldhraun lava fields. The Ring Road is usually cleared of any snow and ice on a regular basis, so you should be able to drive around Iceland in Novemberwithout too much trouble. Learn everything you need to know about viewing the northern lights in Iceland in this comprehensive guide. There are three different ways to see the northern lights in Iceland. Continue reading for all you need to know about Iceland in December, starting with what to do in Iceland in December. The main street, Laugavegur, and the downtown area will be fully decked in lights and decorations. But it's still as popular as ever, so if you can't book tickets to the Blue Lagoon, consider hitting out one of the best swimming pools and hot tubs in Reykjavik. How has Guide to Iceland changed since its conception? Yes, even surrounded by street lights, sometimes the aurora is so bright and strong that you can view the northern lights in Reykjavik. If you have a car but want to stay close to the city, consider driving less than 20 miles out toward snow-capped Mount Esja, which provides a splendid backdrop for the light show (but hiking on the mountain is not recommended during aurora season due to icy conditions). Now that we know when to catch the northern lights, the next thing to do is find the best ways to see the aurora borealis in Iceland. In general, November is an excellent time to see the aurora, but there's no guaranteeing what the cosmos will be up to on any given night. Read our guide to the Northern Lights in Iceland. There are springs of all sizes, from Kvika Footbath, a tiny pool near the Grtta Lighthouse perfect for dipping your feet in, to the Blue Lagoon, Icelands largest and Photo fromMeet on Location 45-Minute Dog Sledding Tour Near Reykjavik. A two-day jaunt could easily be ruined by one patch of cloudy weather; if you stay on the island for a week, however, your chances of catching clear skies are much better. Discover top Icelandic locations to see nature's light show. Find the best travel insurance for you with these U.S. News ratings, which factor in expert and consumer recommendations. from . 191. Theyre on a scale of one to nine, and anything above three is worth setting out for, as a two is usually visible. Photo from The Reykjavik Whale Watching Tour. Learn about the weather, the best places to visit, fun thingsto do, and what tours to embark on from our wide selection of December tours. Another place is the Skaftafell Nature Reserve. The biggest difference, of course, is the temperature of the water. It's possible to take a ferry over to the island to watch this ceremony. How has Guide to Iceland changed since its conception? However, a boat trips primary advantage is not the hunt for the northern lights. Northern lights tour operators always let their customers know well in advance if the hunt for the lights is likely to prove fruitless. GRAY, Prof Clive Professor Emeritus of Immunology, Division of Immunology, Department of Pathology, University of Cape Town; Professor of Immunology in Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town; Adjunct Professor, Department of Immunology, Duke University, North Carolina, USA; Secretary-General, Federation of African Immunology You need to find the darkest place possible and wait until your eyes have adjusted. First, you can stay in Reykjavik and try to spot them in its darkest places, such as Grotta Lighthouse or Klambratun Park. However, this option should only be considered by those who are very confident driving on winter roads. per group (up to 6) The Lava Tunnel - Standard tour with transfer from Reykjavik. Greenland Dogs aren't quite as fast as their Siberian counterparts, but they have higher endurance. Silfra Fissure is not world-famous for its wildlife, nor its caves or potential to explore, but for its crystal clear visibility. They'll also run through the basics of horseback riding with you before you start, so you can ride even if you're a beginner. Immerse Yourself in Icelandic Art and Culture Klambratun Park is a location in the middle of the city where you can spot the Northern Lights if the conditions are right. You'll be happy to hear that it's a yes! Different travelers have different interests, ability levels, and budgets. Others may not be so generous. 71. If you plan to take a snorkeling or diving trip in Silfra Fissure, you'll be in good hands. Both Kvika and the Grotta lighthouse are popular locations for locals to watch the sunset or the northern lights. He was one of the founders of the Icelandic-language journalFjolnir,published in Copenhagenbetween 1835 and 1847. Grotta Lighthouse at the north-westernmost point of Reykjavik is a great place to watch the Northern Lights over the water. The Hofsstadir Country Hotel in Skagafjordur in North Iceland has wide windows to take in the sweeping views of lava fields and fjords. If you plan to drive the route yourself, make sure you rent a car that's well-equipped for wintry road conditions: 4X4s Jeeps or SUVs are a good idea to help ensure your safety on possibly slippery roads. Photo by TKSnaevarr, from Wikimedia Creative Commons. Northern Lights and Stargazing small group tour, Your guide to doing Iceland's Golden Circle from Reykjavik, Mud masks, spa treatments, relaxing soaks: All you need to know about Icelands Blue Lagoon, Whale watching in Iceland: A guide to getting up close and personal. GRAY, Prof Clive Professor Emeritus of Immunology, Division of Immunology, Department of Pathology, University of Cape Town; Professor of Immunology in Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town; Adjunct Professor, Department of Immunology, Duke University, North Carolina, USA; Secretary-General, Federation of African Immunology They're also a friendly and personable breed, so don't be surprised if you get a bit attached to your horse. Its located in a spot thats far removed from civilization, making it a good place to see the night sky. Immerse Yourself in Icelandic Art and Culture Get a vacation. How strong was the eruption? Those who want to enjoy the season outside the capital region could head to Obyggdasetrid, the Wilderness Center. Iceland in December is one of the most festive times of the year, with Christmas season in full swing, topped off by the incredible New Years' Eve celebration. They tickle your sense of adventure and are safely conducted by experienced glacier guides who can teach you all about their formation. Explore an unequalled wealth of tours and packages, Read first hand reviews by customers from across the world, It was truly an amazing experience and the tour guides were awesome. There's a saying in Iceland: If you don't like the weather, just wait five minutes. The geothermal pool typically closes in the late evening during the winter and early spring (too early to see the northern lights, most of the time), but it could still serve as a rejuvenating warmup before you go aurora hunting. It might not be the first activity that comes to mind when planning a trip to Iceland, but it's one that will have massive appeal for high-stakes adventurers: surfing. Neighbouring Scandinavians, however, were less than trustful. Even if youre only visiting the capital, you still have a chance to see the northern lights in Reykjavik. 14. During your visit in Iceland, you have the option of seeing the northern lights on your own. Of course, bad weather can foil your plans regardless of when you visit. Your riding tour guides will provide you with all the right gear to ensure you have the most comfortable experience possible. Photo fromSnowmobile Adventure | Golden Circle and Langjokull Snowmobiling. With so many potential viewing locations on the table, many visitors seek out some of the country's most scenic locations for catching the northern lights think fjords, glaciers and black sand beaches. A bar is available on board, and if the lights aren't visible, you can join another tour for free. According to Iceland's tourism authority, the best time to see the northern lights in Iceland is between September and mid-April. Anything missing or inaccurate? In Iceland, there is no jolly Santa Clause that goes around handing out presents with the help of his reindeer. If youre chasing the aurora, youll want Icelands dark winter months to help you. To fully immerse yourself in the Christmas spirit, you should head to the town of Hafnarfjordur, which is in the greater Reykjavik area. The best vantage point is, without a doubt, Hallgrimskirkja church, the iconic church that overlooks the city. There is "Door Slammer" who's very brash and loud. While Iceland is a popular destination and you might encounter some crowds while hunting for the aurora there, its also one of the most stunning landscapes on earth. This Friday, were taking a look at Microsoft and Sonys increasingly bitter feud over Call of Duty and whether U.K. regulators are leaning toward torpedoing the Activision Blizzard deal. Its water is said to have healing properties, so it's no surprise that the poolhas become such apopular spa resort. Each tour differs from the others, but all of them allow you the opportunity to reach high speeds and get your heart beating faster such as this 1-hour snowmobile adventure on Langjokull glacier. You can start in the morning by learning about Iceland's fascinating history at the Reykjavik Maritime Museum or by having a giggle at the world's only Phallological Museum before heading to the Arbaejarsafn Open Air Museum when it opens at 1 PM. Kleifarvatn, a large and tranquil lake ringed by small mountains, sits about 20 miles south of Reykjavik, while another option is Krsuvk, a geothermal area with hot springs south of the lake. If you prefer guided excursions on land, we recommend joining a Superjeep tour from Reykjavik. The Icelandic Meteorological Office will give you all the information you need to know about the weather in Iceland in December. The Skaftafellsjokull glacier is on the far side of the South Coast, located within the Skaftafell Nature Reserve. Iceland is situated well above the 60 north latitude line, the lowest point from which the northern lights are regularly seen. 07.12.2022 Top 10 Reykjavik Sehenswrdigkeiten: Hier finden Sie 565.346 Bewertungen und Fotos von Reisenden ber 832 Sehenswrdigkeiten, Touren und Ausflge - alle Reykjavik Aktivitten auf einen Blick. The best northern lights hotels are in remote locations with no light pollution. You can catch the Northern Lights throughout Iceland but Grtta lighthouse, on the country's northwesternmost point, is a particularly good spot to see them. Despite the occasionally cruel temperatures, tour operators are on hand to provide you with thermal wear that makes outdoor activities, such as winter horseback riding, scuba diving, or glacial hiking, just as comfortable as they are in summer. In winter, its appeal only increases. Take note, though, that this tour does not accept children younger than 8, while the age minimum for the two-day tour is 6 years old. Tour della grotta di ghiaccio di cristallo dalla Laguna del ghiacciaio di Jokulsarlon. There are a few things youll want to keep in mind when planning a trip to Iceland in December. These places include the stunning Westfjords region in the country's northwest as well as eastern Iceland with its traditional villages, wild reindeer, lakes and meadows. 75. Were answering all the frequently asked questions: Do you want to know what the weather is like in April? They're almost impossible to catch from May to September because of the midnight sun. Modern scientific understanding of the northern lights did not mature until the 1880's when researchers discovered their connection to solar activity. Because Earth's magnetic energy is strongest at the poles, it causes the solar particles to discharge and release energy in Earth's atmosphere. Photo fromWinter Sea Adventure | Whale & Dolphin Watching. Children aged12 and overmaybe allowed to operate a dog sled, but this will be up to the guide operating your tour. Are Northern Lights Guaranteed in Iceland? There are springs of all sizes, from Kvika Footbath, a tiny pool near the Grtta Lighthouse perfect for dipping your feet in, to the Blue Lagoon, Icelands largest and Your email address will not be published. Whales are very common off the coast of Iceland, so it's practically guaranteedthat you'll spot some of the marine life that thrives in these waters. echoes down the streets of Reykjavik, a warm greeting to passersby. However, their mother Gryla has not been modernized to the same extent as her sons. Tour avventurosi. Before the Yule Lads got more modernized in the early 20th century, the brothers were more like trolls that parents would tell their children horror stories about if they did not behave. Tour della grotta di ghiaccio di cristallo dalla Laguna del ghiacciaio di Jokulsarlon. They'll even help you to get dressed to make sure you've done it right. Keflavk Airport (KEF), 235 KEFLAVKURFLUGVLLUR, Reykjanesbr, English, Spanish, German, Chinese, French. The village itself only has seven houses in all, making it a nice, quiet place to view the Northern Lights. With little to no light pollution, its one of the best places to see the Northern Lights in Iceland. Absolutely! Outside the city, temperatures tend to drop even lower, particularly in high-altitude places like the Icelandic Highlands.. November also sees more cloud cover across the country than earlier in the year, rising from a 66% to a 72% likelihood. Snuggle up inside warm cafes, stroll the streets, explore the impressive countryside, and admire the northern lights at night. It's fun and fascinating. Thanks to the deteriorating weather, you'relikely to encounter thick fogs, blizzards, and heavy rainfall at some point along your journey. The festival officially starts on the fourth Sunday before Christmas Eve, when the Christmas trees are lit across the country. Youll be under the guidance of an aurora expert. If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. $83.60. There are a number of different snowmobile tours to choose from, on glaciers such as Langjokull, Myrdalsjokull, and Trollaskagi("Troll Peninsula") are just a few options. Therefore, if you plan on renting a car, it's highly recommended that you rent a four-wheel drive. Day Trips. Thats when Iceland has its longest nights of the year. The boats depart the harbor at Reykjavik in the evening and head straight to Faxafloi Bay where they drop anchor. Photo fromIncredible 3-Hour Guided Drysuit Diving Tour in Silfra. It maintains a constant temperature of two degrees underground, so it doesn't freeze until it reaches lake Thingvallavatn. To combat these hazards, Iceland's mountain roads (known as "Froads") are closedto all traffic. per adult. If the conditions are favorable, you can see the northern lights anywhere in Iceland, but its easier and more scenic in some places than others. However, the advantage of an ice tunnel tour is that it's less likely to be canceled because of hazardous conditions. How To See the Northern Lights in Iceland, Where to See the Northern Lights in Iceland, Northern Lights in Westfjords and North Iceland, Camping in Iceland to see the Northern Lights, How to See the Northern Lights in Reykjavik, Disadvantages of Northern Lights Hunting in the City. Weve dedicated a whole post tothe best time to see the northern lights in Iceland. Glacier hiking operators in Iceland will supply you with all the necessary equipment, including ice axes, crampons, helmets, and harnesses. Thanks to the light current that runs through it, Silfra Fissure never freezesnot even in the dead of winter! These includeThingvellir National Parkin the south,Asbyrgi canyonin the north, andKirkjufell mountainin the west,being a few of the most notable ones. The lopapeysa has since gone through a few fashion revivals. more, Northern Lights Midnight Adventure from Reykjavk, Northern Lights Search Super Jeep Tour from Reykjavik, Northern Lights Small-Group Minibus Tour from Reykjavik, Northern Lights Cruise from Downtown Reykjavik, Northern Lights and Stargazing:Small Group Tour with Local Guides from Reykjavik. To keep safe in these treacherous conditions, it's important to always leave ample room between your car and the car in front and to refrain from speeding. 544. The Yule Lads are not always on their best behavior as they are quite sneaky and mischievous. Immerse Yourself in Icelandic Art and Culture Located on a former farm in the Icelandic wilderness, this hotel says it gets an average of three aurora sightings per week in the winter months. This is six times more than in October, but still only half as much as usually falls in December. Water running underneath the glaciers opens up tunnels within them, allowing visitors to explore the fantastical world inside an ice cap. The Finnish name for the aurora translates to Fire Fox, a direct reference to the ethereal fox that would dash so quickly across the night sky that his tail would brush against the mountains, thus causing a vast and colourful outburst of sparks. However, northern lights tour companies in Iceland usually offer you a second opportunity to try and see them for free if your first tour is unsuccessful. November is one of the best times to go lava caving in Iceland. The sbyrgi Canyon is a fascinating horseshoe-shaped formation that is popular among hikers. You can buy tickets to the museum on location or through the purchase of a Visit Reykjavik City Card, which gives you access to museums and galleries across the capital. Weve rounded up the best spots for you to see the Northern Lights in Reykjavik and across Iceland. 3 Days Self-Drive - Blue Lagoon, Reykjavik, Golden Circle & Grindavik. The company uses minibuses, so you can expect small groups of up to 16 people, and the tours include an experienced photographer to take some pictures for you. The view makes it one of the great places to visit hot springs in Reykjavik. The light can even be seen across Faxafloi bay in the city center of Reykjavik. This large-scale ice sculpture hasrooms, statues, and even ice furniture, all made from ice. U.S. sports platform Fanatics has raised $700 million in a new financing round led by private equity firm Clearlake Capital, valuing Fanatics at $31 billion. Suggested Itinerary for Iceland in December, Two Day Tour from Reykjavik, visiting Jokulsarlon and an Ice Cave, nique 11-Hour Glacier Hiking and Ice Cave Tour Under Katla Volcano from Reykjavik, Icelandic Meteorological Office's website, Leidarendi Cave on the Reykjanes Peninsula| Half-Day Tour from Reykjavik, Meet on Location 30 Minute Snorkeling Tour in the Crystal Waters of Silfra, Stunning 4 Hour Super Jeep & 3 Hour Glacier Hiking Tour at Falljokull by Skaftafell, Exhilarating 1 Hour Snowmobile Adventure on Langjokull Glacier with Transfer from Gullfoss, snowmobiling day tour from Reykjavik to the Langjokull glacier, day tour of Landmannalaugar in a super jeep, best swimming pools and hot tubs in Reykjavik, 30 Best Hot Springs and Geothermal Pools in Iceland, Best Places for Marriage Proposals in Iceland, nine-day winter Snaefellsnes and South Coast self-drive package, two-day trip to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. One of the biggest events on New Year's Eve is the fireworks set off around the capital. Suggest edits to improve what we show. If youre not a fan of group tours, we recommend you go on your own self-drive northern lights hunting tourso you can go aurora hunting at your own pace. There's a two-day road trip to the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, which involves ice caving, and can be combined with a five-day self-drive around the South Coast (for example, the Golden Circle and Snaefellsnes peninsula). They'll be able to offer you the best tips and recommendations about safely maximizing your time and finding the waves to match your skill level. So, while you're never guaranteed to see the lights, a little planning and forethought can pay off. Its a probability game, so the best chance of seeing the aurora borealis in Iceland is to stay longer. Finally, if you have a valid drivers license, you can rent a car and embark on an epic self-drive journey chasing the Northern Lights in Reykjavik but be careful of road conditions in winter. In that case, combining a few packages will allow you to create a perfect combination of city and nature. The Icelandic horse is particularly well suited to a harsh climate. For three melodious days and nights, the country transforms into a musical composition itself,with almost every establishmentcafes, bars, art galleriesshowcasing incredible performers. This site is not a resource for general travel advice about Iceland. Get a vacation. Locals buy fireworks in bulk from the Icelandic Search and Rescue organization (to fund them!) Learn about the most famous waterfalls in Iceland, the best waterfalls to visit, and the stories behind them. Since the days are short during the Icelandic winters, it can be dark outside as early as 5 pm which can make the aurora visible in ideal conditions. However, it's still recommended that you wear some warm layers under them, as it gets cold out here! Hotel Ranga in Hella is 60 miles (100 kilometers) southeast of Reykjavik. The view makes it one of the great places to visit hot springs in Reykjavik. Throughout the year, the three most accessible caves are the Leidarendi cave on the Reykjanes peninsula, Vidgelmir cave in the Hallmundarhraun lava field, and Raufarholshellir cave near Hveragerdi. Christmas in Iceland is a celebration of light, as the days start getting longer after the winter solstice. About Press Copyright Contact us Creators Advertise Developers Terms Privacy Policy & Safety How YouTube works Test new features However, its impossible to know the forecasts more than a few days in advance. Which mountainsare the most beautiful mountains in Iceland, where are they located and what kind of mountains can you find in Iceland? If youve never seen the northern lights before, Iceland is a great, accessible destination for your first experience. Today, research is ongoing into the northern lights as we further our understanding of deep space and our connection to it. Skip the bus tours and take to the ocean for a couple hours with this nighttime aurora-spotting cruise. Learn about Iceland's must-see attractions. Rolling StonewriterDavid Fricke called Iceland Airwaves"the hippest long weekend on the annual music festival calendar." Because of Iceland's proximity to the North Pole, we perceive this exchange of energy as dancing streaks of green, purple and pink lights in the sky. The lights on the facade of the building are sometimes used interactively. With the festive spirit, a sprinkling of snow, northern lights, and a wide variety of tours, the country becomes a romantic winter wonderland that lures couples worldwide. These include the Arctic Tern, Greater Scaup, Tufted Duck, Gadwall, Common Eider, Common Ringed Plover, Whooper Swan, and many more. If the sky is clear, aurora activity is high and you're viewing it from a dark area, free from light pollution, the northern lights in Iceland might last for 1-2 hours. It's also a good idea to travel out of the citythis will help you avoid light pollution, increasing your chance of spotting the lights even more. Will there still Guide to Iceland | The Story of the Leading Travel Agency of Iceland, The complete guide to the midnight sun in Iceland, Top 20 Most Beautiful Waterfalls in Iceland, The Ultimate Guide to Ice Caves in Iceland, The 13 Most Enchanting Beaches in Iceland, Iceland in April: Things to Do, Weather, and Northern Lights, Best Places to Visit in Iceland in December. Sites such as the Grotta lighthouse and some of the city parks are sometimes dark enough for a good display within the city limit. The weather and road conditions may limit access to North Iceland, East Iceland, and especially the Westfjords. These packages may even suit those only in the country for a limited time, such as this three-day self-drive to the ice caves and this five-day package around the South Coast and Golden Circle. A rustic building now plays host to this stylish yet homey hotel on the Snfellsnes peninsula, with aurora wake-up calls; fine dining sourced from local purveyors; and stellar views that span glaciers, lava fields and the Atlantic. In this guide, youll find everything you need to know to see the aurora in Iceland, weather permitting. Blue Ice Caves. First of all the sky should be clear so clouds aren't blocking the view of the northern lights. 854.54. You'll have the opportunity to see its many diverse features and landscapes, such as Mount Kirkjufell, Snaefellsjokull glacier, and the Londrangar sea stacks, as well as the chance to go seal watching and lava caving. 140. from . However, keep in mind that catching the northern lights isn't as simple as hopping on a plane and looking up once you land in Reykjavik. This gives you an excellent of the night sky. However, if you're heading to the northern parts of Iceland, where weather conditions can be worse, you'll want to take extra precautions. 83.69. In fact, November is as good a time as any to purchasea "lopapeysa", atraditional Icelandic sweater. 191. Guests have plenty of compliments for this lodge's scenic setting, as well as the luxury and comfort of its one-of-a-kind design. However, that is very rare and ideally you should go outside of the city where it's darker. In November, the average temperature in Iceland's capital, Reykjavik, hovers between a brisk 33 F and 46 F (between 1 C and 8 C). To top it off, if the tour is canceled due to unfavorable conditions, or the forecast was wrong, and the lights didn't appear, you can retake the tour free of charge until you see them. Read about where to go and what to see. Glacier hikes are excellent because of the view, but it's so much more than that. Golden Circle Afternoon and Northern Lights Tour from Reykjavik. But be on alert around the water you must pay attention to your surroundings on the beaches, as so-called "sneaker waves" can cause injury or death. Wetsuit hoods and gloves, if used, let the water in, but it warms quickly. Even if you feel comfortable driving, renting a four-wheel-drive vehicle is still recommended. You'll arrive at Keflavik Airport on day one, jump on the Flybus, and start your holiday in the most relaxing way possible: in the Blue Lagoon. You recline, rest your head on the edge, and chat with friends as the sun goes down. If you want to relax in an outdoor thermal pool while you watch the skies, visit Laugardalur, a recreational space just east of the city center. Those who arrive in November will find fewer crowds, more choice ofaccommodation, and a unique winter wonderlandalmost entirely to themselves. Advantages of choosing northern lights tours: This 3-day tour, in addition to a Northern Lights hunt, includes the South Coast in winter as well asJokulsarlon glacier lagoon, the famous Golden Circle, and engaging in some adventurous ice caving. 13 brothers that travel from the mountains to the cities and towns to give children presents in their shoe which they keep on the window shelf. After the events of Ragnark, it is said that the world will be born anew, strengthening the ancient themes of birth, death and rebirth. from . per adult. Consider stopping off at the spectacular 200-foot high Seljalandsfoss waterfall on the way; it's about 40 miles from Vik, on the main road from Reykjavik. Some Icelanders even use the leftover grounds to scrub their skin after a wintry dip in the North Atlantic! Microsoft pleaded for its deal on the day of the Phase 2 decision last month, but now the gloves are well and truly off. However, ice caving is a specialized activity that requires a tour operatoryou can't go caving without a tour guide. Before science could explain the source of the dancing lights in the sky, different people told many stories about their origins. Offering ultra-chic minimalist rooms, access to private lagoons and otherworldly views, The Retreat Hotel and Silica Hotel at the Blue Lagoon resort offer a true luxury experience, with prices to match: Silica's nightly rates start at more than 500 euros (which is also more than $500). Blue Ice Caves. Within that September to April period, there's some debate about the optimal time to see the lights. Centuries-old glacial water trickles down from the mighty Langjokull glacier, being purified as it winds its way through the dark volcanic rock networks at Thingvellir National Parkbefore spilling out into the fissure to form a spellbinding canyon of blues and greens. In fact, Icelanders love their coffee so much thatyoull sometimes find free coffee in local supermarkets, banks, and retailers. Improve this listing. Longer tours often provide a more intimate experience with smaller groups, although they're less likely to let you rebook if the lights aren't visible. 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