Iceland Aurora Forecast 2022 – Everything You Need to Know

Are you planning a trip to Iceland and hoping to experience the magical phenomenon of the northern lights? If so, you’re not alone! Millions of people flock to Iceland each year hoping to catch a glimpse of the aurora borealis.

The good news is that Iceland is one of the best places in the world to see the northern lights, and 2022 promises to be another great year for aurora sightings. In this blog post, we’ll give you everything you need to know about Iceland’s aurora forecast for 2022, including the best time to visit and the best places to see the northern lights.

What are the Northern Lights?

The northern lights, also known as the aurora borealis, are a natural light display in the Earth’s sky. They are caused by collisions between charged particles from the sun and particles in the Earth’s atmosphere.

The northern lights can appear in many different colors, including green, blue, purple, pink, and red. The colors are determined by the type of gas particles that are colliding in the atmosphere.

When is the Best Time to See the Northern Lights in Iceland?

The best time to see the northern lights in Iceland is from September to April. During this time, nights are longer, which means there are more hours of darkness for you to spot the aurora.

From late May to early August, Iceland experiences the midnight sun, which means that the sun doesn’t set at all during this period. As a result, it’s impossible to see the northern lights during this time.

However, just because the conditions are right to see the northern lights doesn’t mean you’re guaranteed to see them. It all depends on the weather, solar activity, and the strength of the aurora.

What Determines the Strength of the Aurora?

The strength of the aurora is determined by solar activity. When there is a lot of solar activity, the aurora is stronger, and the lights are more visible.

Solar activity is measured on a scale of 0-9, with 0 being very low and 9 being very high. The higher the number, the stronger the aurora.

If you want to increase your chances of seeing the northern lights, it’s a good idea to visit Iceland during a time when solar activity is high.

How to Check the Aurora Forecast for Iceland?

There are several websites that offer aurora forecasts for Iceland, including the Icelandic Met Office and Aurora Forecast. These sites provide up-to-date information on the strength of the aurora, as well as cloud cover, wind speed, and other weather conditions that can affect your ability to see the northern lights.

It’s also a good idea to download an app that will send you alerts when the aurora is visible in your area. Some popular aurora apps include AuroraWatch UK and My Aurora Forecast.

The Best Places to See the Northern Lights in Iceland

Although the northern lights can be seen from anywhere in Iceland on a clear night, there are some places that offer better viewing opportunities than others.

One popular spot for northern lights viewing is the Reykjanes Peninsula. This area is located near the airport and offers easy access to dark and secluded spots for aurora sightings.

Another good spot is Thingvellir National Park, which is located about 40 minutes east of Reykjavik. This park is known for its clear skies and stunning scenery, making it a great place to combine northern lights viewing with a daytime hike.

If you’re looking for a more remote and off-the-beaten-track location, head to the Westfjords region in the northwest corner of Iceland. This area offers wide-open skies, little light pollution, and a rugged and untouched landscape.

Conclusion

Iceland is one of the best places in the world to see the northern lights, and 2022 promises to be another great year for aurora sightings. While there are no guarantees when it comes to the weather and solar activity, there are steps you can take to increase your chances of seeing the aurora.

By checking the aurora forecast, visiting during a time of high solar activity, and choosing a good spot to view the northern lights, you’ll be well on your way to experiencing one of the most magical natural phenomena on Earth.

An Insider’s Guide to Reykjavik, Iceland

As the capital and largest city of Iceland, Reykjavik is known for its picturesque views, friendly locals, and stunning natural beauty. While the city has numerous well-known tourist attractions, there are also many hidden gems that only locals know about. Here are some insider’s tips to make the most of your Reykjavik experience.

Local Attractions

While the Golden Circle and Blue Lagoon are popular tourist attractions, there are many hidden gems in Reykjavik worth exploring.

One must-visit spot is the Reykjavik flea market, Kolaportid. It’s the best place to find all kinds of local goods like Icelandic wool sweaters, handmade crafts, and traditional delicacies.

Another offbeat attraction is the Nautholsvik Geothermal Beach, where you can swim in heated waters while enjoying the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

The Grotta Lighthouse at the end of Seltjarnarnes peninsula is also a hidden gem. The sunset and aurora views from the lighthouse are breathtaking and less crowded than the popular viewing spots.

Dining Spots

Reykjavik has a unique food culture that is deeply connected to the country’s natural resources; the city offers many delicious dishes that you will not find anywhere else. You can not miss trying the local delicacy of fermented shark meat and dried fish jerky.

For a proper meal, try Fiskfelagid, a high-end restaurant featuring traditional Icelandic cuisine like lamb and arctic char. Another must-visit is Reykjavik Street Food, which serves up excellent fish and chips, and traditional lamb soup.

If you are a coffee fan, Reykjavik Roasters is the place to go. Their speciality coffee is roasted in-house and is hands-down the best in town.

Cultural Experiences

Reykjavik has a vibrant art and music scene, and it is something that sets it apart from other Scandinavian cities.

The Harpa Concert Hall is a stunning glass building in the heart of the city that hosts concerts, performances, and events throughout the year. The Iceland Symphony Orchestra is always worth a visit, too.

For art lovers, the Reykjavik Art Museum is the perfect place to immerse themselves in local art and cultivate their creativity.

Lastly, the Icelandic Sagas played a significant role in the preservation of the country’s history and mythology. One of the best ways to experience this cultural treasure is with an Icelandic Saga tour.

Local History

The city has both a rich and troubled history. One recommended spot to visit is the Reykjavik Settlement Exhibition, giving visitors an incredible glimpse into the Icelandic way of life during Viking times.

The city is also known for being the scene of Iceland’s most significant protest in history, where in 2008, locals rallied on the streets to demand the government resignation following the country’s financial crisis.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you want to explore the city from a whole new perspective, try winter hiking in the mountains of Esja. There are several trails of different lengths and difficulty levels that offer a spectacular view of the city from above.

A unique and surreal experience to consider is the Inside the Volcano Tour where visitors can hike deep into a dormant volcano and see an underground magma chamber.

Lastly, you can not miss visiting the Secret Lagoon, a natural hot spring and one of the oldest pools in Iceland. It is a great way to relax, surrounded by stunning scenery.

To conclude, Reykjavik, Iceland, offers breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and friendly locals. By following this insider’s guide, you will discover unique insider tips that most tourists miss out on, making your tour an unforgettable experience.