Is March a Good Time to See the Northern Lights in Iceland?

Iceland is among the most popular destinations in the world for Northern Lights viewing. The incredible natural phenomenon, also known as Aurora Borealis, is a result of charged particles colliding with atoms in Earth’s atmosphere, producing stunning dancing lights.

If you’re planning a trip to Iceland and want to witness the Northern Lights, you might be wondering if March is the best time to go. Keep reading to find out if March is a good time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland.

The Northern Lights in Iceland

Iceland is one of the best places to witness the Northern Lights due to its location close to the Arctic Circle. The Northern Lights are visible in Iceland from September to April, but some months are better than others.

Weather Conditions in March

March is the beginning of the spring season in Iceland. The weather is still pretty cold and sometimes unpredictable. The average temperature ranges from -1°C to 3°C (30°F to 37°F). The daylight hours increase in March, and you can expect to experience around 12 hours of daylight throughout the month.

How Does Solar Activity Affect Northern Lights?

The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, and their occurrence cannot be predicted with absolute accuracy. However, one of the most important factors affecting Northern Lights visibility is solar activity.

The Northern Lights occur when electrically charged particles from the sun collide with particles in the Earth’s atmosphere. These charged particles come from the sun’s corona, and their activity varies in cycles of about 11 years. During the peak of solar activity, the Northern Lights are more intense and frequent.

March is a Good Time to See the Northern Lights in Iceland

March is an ideal time to witness the Northern Lights in Iceland. During March, the solar activity is still high, providing a high possibility to see the Northern Lights. As the daylight hours increase, you will have more opportunities to view the Northern Lights after dark.

Another reason why March is a good time to visit Iceland is that the winter tourist season is coming to an end. You will likely have fewer people to compete with for the best viewing spots, and you may be able to avoid crowds and get a more intimate Northern Lights experience.

Where to Go in Iceland to See the Northern Lights?

To increase your chance of seeing the Northern Lights, it’s recommended to go to a spot far from the city lights. You can visit places like Thingvellir National Park or Skogafoss waterfall, which offer great views of the Aurora Borealis. You can also plan a Northern Lights tour, which will take you to the best viewing spots with an experienced guide.

Final Thoughts

If you want to experience the Northern Lights in Iceland, March is a good time to go. With high solar activity and longer daylight hours, you will have more opportunities to see the Northern Lights. Additionally, with fewer crowds, you can enjoy the stunning natural phenomenon in a more serene setting.

Just remember to dress appropriately for the cold weather and carry a camera to capture the stunning Northern Lights.

Insider’s Guide to Seeing the Northern Lights in Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital, is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights. With its dark night skies, it is possible to see the Aurora borealis, a natural light show, from late August through early April. In this insider’s guide, we will explore all the local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions that one should experience while exploring Reykjavik.

Local Attractions

Reykjavik has several must-see attractions. Some of the popular ones include the Hallgrímskirkja Church, which stands tall against the skyline and offers a magnificent view of the city from its tower. Harpa, Iceland’s largest concert hall, is also an architectural treat that lights up at night and offers an array of cultural events worth watching. One can also explore the Icelandic Phallological Museum, which is home to the world’s largest collection of penises of different species across the globe.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Reykjavik has several parks and gardens worth exploring. The Reykjavik Botanical Garden offers an array of diverse plant life, whereas the Bæjarins Bestu hot dog stand is the perfect spot for enjoying hot dogs and drinks.

Dining Spots

Reykjavik offers a unique culinary experience. One of the spots worth visiting is the Icelandic Street Food restaurant, which serves traditional Icelandic dishes such as fish and lamb soup. Also, the Reykjavik Fish Restaurant is known for its fresh seafood, and the Grillmarket is a great place for local game meats and fish.

For a unique experience, one can visit the Viking-themed restaurant, Matur og Drykkur. The establishment serves authentic Viking cuisine, which includes fermented shark and lamb head.

Cultural Experiences

For cultural experiences, Reykjavik has several museums and galleries that offer a glimpse of its history and art. The National Museum of Iceland houses some of the country’s most significant treasures, such as Viking age artifacts and medieval manuscripts.

One can also visit the Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Center, which is a cultural hub for music, drama, and dance in Iceland and the Reykjavik Art Museum with three locations in the city, featuring contemporary art exhibitions.

Local History

Reykjavik is known for its Viking history, and one can learn more about it by visiting the Settlement Exhibition. The museum offers an interactive and engaging exhibition on the first Viking settlers and their way of life in Iceland.

The Reykjavik Maritime Museum also offers a unique insight into Iceland’s maritime history and traditions, as Icelanders have long relied on the sea for their livelihood.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

One off-the-beaten-path suggestion is visiting the Sólheimar Eco-Village. This sustainable community is located only an hour’s drive from Reykjavik. The village offers an organic garden, geothermal greenhouses, and a cafe that serves locally-sourced food.

Another suggestion is riding Icelandic horses in the countryside, which is an unforgettable experience in Iceland’s rugged landscape. Additionally, one can soak in the hot springs or an open-air pool, such as the Reykjavik Thermal Baths, which is a must-visit for those seeking a relaxing experience.

In conclusion, Reykjavik is a magical city with many attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions that are worth exploring. Its beautiful Northern Lights, unique Viking history, and culinary delights make it a destination that one should add to their travel list.