Iceland Aurora Forecast in September 2021: Your Ultimate Guide

Iceland is known for its dramatic landscapes, stunning waterfalls, and unique volcanic features. However, one of the main reasons that attract visitors to Iceland is to witness the Northern Lights, also known as Aurora Borealis. The best months to see this celestial spectacle in Iceland are from September to mid-April. In this blog post, we will provide you with everything you need to know about the Iceland aurora forecast in September 2021.

Understanding the Aurora Borealis

The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon that occurs when charged particles from the sun interact with Earth’s magnetic field. When these particles collide with the gases in Earth’s atmosphere, it creates a display of colorful lights in the sky. The intensity of the Aurora Borealis depends on the strength of the solar winds, which can be predicted by scientists.

Iceland Aurora Forecast in September 2021

September is considered one of the best months to see the Aurora Borealis in Iceland because the nights get darker, and the weather becomes less unpredictable. The aurora season in Iceland usually begins in late August and lasts until mid-April.

According to the Icelandic Met Office, September 2021 is predicted to have a high aurora activity, with a KP index of 3-5 on most nights. The KP index is a scale from 0 to 9, which measures the strength of the aurora. It is based on geomagnetic activity and is an important tool for predicting the Northern Lights’ visibility.

Best Places to See the Northern Lights in Iceland

While the Northern Lights can be visible from anywhere in Iceland, some places are known for providing a better viewing experience than others. Here are some of the best places to see the Northern Lights in Iceland:

1. Thingvellir National Park

Thingvellir National Park is one of the most popular spots to see the Northern Lights in Iceland. It’s located only 40 kilometers from Reykjavik, making it easily accessible. The park offers a vast open area, which provides a clear view of the sky. Moreover, Thingvellir is situated on the Mid Atlantic Ridge and provides a unique setting for a Northern Lights display.

2. Landmannalaugar

Landmannalaugar is a remote area in the highlands of Iceland, known for its scenic hiking trails, hot springs, and colorful rhyolite mountains. It’s also a fantastic place to see the Northern Lights. The remote location of Landmannalaugar means that it has minimal light pollution, making it an ideal place to watch the aurora borealis.

3. Kirkjufell Mountain

Kirkjufell Mountain is located on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, northwest of Reykjavik. It’s often considered one of the most picturesque and photographed locations in Iceland, and it’s an amazing spot to see the Northern Lights. The mountain provides a stunning backdrop for a Northern Lights display.

Tips for Viewing the Aurora Borealis in Iceland

While September is an excellent month to see the Northern Lights in Iceland, there are a few things you can do to increase your chances of witnessing the aurora borealis.

1. Check the Weather Forecast

Before planning your Northern Lights tour, make sure to check the weather forecast. The Northern Lights are best seen on a clear and cold night. You can check the Icelandic Met Office website for the weather forecast.

2. Choose a Dark Location

The Northern Lights are best seen in areas with minimal light pollution. This is why remote locations like Thingvellir National Park, Landmannalaugar, and Kirkjufell Mountain are ideal places to see the aurora borealis.

3. Be Patient

Even though the Iceland Aurora Forecast in September 2021 is promising, there’s no guarantee that you will see the Northern Lights. Sometimes, the aurora activity can be weaker than predicted, or it can be cloudy, which makes it impossible to see the aurora borealis. Therefore, it’s essential to be patient and enjoy the moment, regardless of whether you see the Northern Lights or not.

4. Join a Northern Lights Tour

If you want to increase your chances of seeing the Northern Lights, consider joining a guided Northern Lights tour. These tours are led by experienced guides who know the best spots and can provide you with valuable information about the aurora borealis.

Conclusion

September is an excellent month to see the Northern Lights in Iceland, and the Iceland Aurora Forecast for September 2021 is promising. By choosing the right location, checking the weather forecast, and being patient, you can increase your chances of experiencing this celestial spectacle. Don’t forget to bring warm clothes, a good camera, and enjoy the moment, regardless of whether you see the Northern Lights or not.