Seeing mystical Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, is on many travelers’ bucket lists. Iceland’s dramatic scenery and open skies make it one of the best destinations on our globe to see this enthralling natural phenomenon. With Blue Car Rental’s car rentals, you get your best chance to chase Northern Lights on your own schedule and away from urban lights. Here is everything you need to know for a blockbuster Northern Lights road trip in Iceland.
Why Iceland is ideal for a self-drive Northern Lights experience
With low light pollution and population and breathtaking scenery, Iceland is the best destination to see Northern Lights. Renting a car gives travelers freedom and control to escape urban lights, find best viewing spots, and stay out as long as Aurora dances across night skies.
Perfect places in Iceland to drive and view Northern Lights
Here are some places that are reachable by rental car to make your Northern Lights experience even better:
Thingvellir National Park (Þingvellir)
Thingvellir offers wide open landscapes with minimal light pollution, making it ideal for unobstructed Aurora viewing. Its proximity to Reykjavík means you can reach it quickly while still escaping the city glow. Þingvellir, Iceland’s Golden Circle site, has open spaces with great Aurora viewing. Its rich heritage is a bonus.
Distance from Reykjavík:
Approximately 45 km, about a 40-minute drive.
Parking:
Easy night-time parking areas make it easy.
Local tip:
Dress warmly and enjoy starry nights around Thingvellir National Park—a UNESCO site.
Snæfellsnes Peninsula: Breathtaking views and clear skies
Known as “Iceland in Miniature,” Snæfellsnes peninsula delivers diverse scenery. From mountains to coastlines, perfect for dramatic Aurora backdrops. The skies are usually clearer here thanks to fewer clouds and remote surroundings. Snæfellsnes Peninsula provides stunning Northern Lights viewing amidst famous scenery such as Kirkjufell Mountain.
Distance from Reykjavík:
Approximately 2 hours (150 km)
Parking:
Ample parking space near Kirkjufell and around Grundarfjörður town.
Local tip:
Arrive early to secure excellent viewing positions—one of Iceland’s best Northern Lights viewing areas.
Þórsmörk (Thorsmork): Hidden wilderness view
Remote and rugged, Þórsmörk offers pitch-black skies far from any artificial light. This secluded valley is perfect for adventurers seeking a more immersive, off-the-grid Aurora experience. Accessed by gravel roads and best suited for 4x4 cars, Þórsmörk is an exhilarating Northern Lights experience. Its remote location ensures dark skies for Aurora viewing.
Distance from Reykjavík:
Approximately 3 hours (154 km)
Parking:
Limited; best for adventurous travelers with capable cars.
Local tip:
Always check road conditions on Safetravel.is before traveling to more remote areas.
Lake Mývatn: Northern Lights capital of the north
Located in northern Iceland, Lake Mývatn has some of the country’s most consistent Aurora activity. Its volcanic surroundings add a surreal atmosphere, and the nearby geothermal baths make it a cozy spot to relax after sky-watching. Located in northern Iceland, Lake Mývatn is famous for regular and powerful Northern Lights displays. Volcanic landscapes and proximity to thermal baths make it a memorable road trip.
Distance from Reykjavík:
Approximately 6 hours (476 km)
Parking:
Several viewing areas around Lake Mývatn.
H4: Local tip:
Complete your experience with a visit to nearby Mývatn Nature Baths after a night of Aurora viewing.
Tips for a perfect Northern Lights road trip
Keep an eye on the forecast often
Use official sources such as Icelandic Met Office and Aurora forecast websites. Seek clear and dark nights for best viewing.
Steer clear of light pollution
Drive out of town lights and choose spots such as national parks or rural countryside for better visibility and greater Aurora visibility.
Pack warm and comfortable clothing
Layers are important to comfort on evening outdoor adventures. Read our What to Wear in Iceland for specific packing tips.
Stay safe
Keep an eye on weather and road conditions on Safetravel.is. Rent a 4x4 car in winter months for improved safety.
Pack essentials
Pack hot refreshments, spare batteries, and a tripod for photographing the Aurora in focus.
How renting a vehicle with Blue Car Rental maximizes your Aurora experience
With Blue Car Rental, you can have freedom to chase clear skies and best Aurora conditions. With our comfortable and reliable fleet, you can safely drive to remote areas and make your Northern Lights experience in Iceland unforgettable. Offering great rental car selection of 4x4, perfect for Icelandic winter contions and hunting for the Aurora Borealis.
Final thoughts: Your unforgettable Northern Lights journey awaits
Chasing the Northern Lights across Iceland isn’t just a road trip, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that blends raw natural beauty with the thrill of the unknown. With the freedom of a rental car, the guidance of smart planning, and the magic of the Arctic sky, you’re perfectly set to create memories that will last a lifetime. From the iconic peaks of Kirkjufell to the steaming geothermal baths of Mývatn, every stop offers a chance to witness nature’s most dazzling light show. So fuel up, bundle up, and get ready to hit the road. Your Northern Lights journey is calling. Iceland is waiting, and the Aurora is ready to dance.
For more travel tips feel free to read Blue Staff's secret spots for Northern ligths watching in Iceland.
