Visiting Iceland in late October, I was hoping — like many travelers — to catch a glimpse of the magical Northern Lights. And I did. Not from a tour bus, not with a guide, but while driving myself through the quiet, dark outskirts of town.
Let me share what I learned, and what you should know if you’re planning a trip to Iceland during aurora season.
1. Late October Is a Great Time
I arrived in late October, when the nights were long enough but not yet freezing cold. The sun sets early, which gives you more nighttime hours to spot the aurora — without waiting until midnight.
- Sunset: around 5:30 PM
- Cold, but manageable: around 0 to 5°C
- Roads: generally clear, but check forecasts daily
2. My Best Aurora Sighting Was While Driving
Instead of booking a guided tour, I rented a car. It turned out to be one of the best decisions:
- Just 15–20 minutes outside Reykjavík, the light pollution fades quickly.
- I pulled over at a safe, dark spot on a countryside road.
- Suddenly, the sky shimmered green — faint at first, then brighter and more vivid.
- It lasted only 10–15 minutes, but it felt timeless.
This kind of spontaneous experience is something group tours can’t always offer.
3. Tips for Seeing the Northern Lights on Your Own
If you’re thinking of driving like I did, here’s what worked:
- Download Aurora forecast apps like My Aurora Forecast or check vedur.is for cloud cover.
- Avoid the full moon — it washes out the colors.
- Be safe: Pull over only in designated or truly safe areas. Use your hazard lights briefly.
- Dress warmly and bring a tripod if you want good photos.
- Keep your expectations low — the aurora is unpredictable.
4. Bonus: Iceland Itself Is the Reward
Even if I hadn’t seen the aurora, my trip would have been incredible:
- Glaciers, black sand beaches, waterfalls
- The peaceful vibe of the Icelandic countryside
- Warm baths at night under cold skies
- Friendly locals and cozy cafés in Reykjavík
The Northern Lights were a bonus, not the goal — and that’s the best mindset to have.
Iceland rewards travelers with patience. You don’t need a luxury tour or professional camera to enjoy the aurora. Just go a little further out, look up, and stay curious.
Sometimes the best light shows happen when you’re not even looking for them.