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Chasing the Northern Lights in the Westfjords

If you’re dreaming of seeing the northern lights in Iceland, the Westfjords are one of the most rewarding and peaceful places to visit. The colorful glow of the aurora borealis over snow-covered mountains and quiet fjords creates a calm and unforgettable experience. Below are the main reasons why the Westfjords are an ideal spot for northern lights viewing, along with practical tips to plan your trip.
31.10.2025

Why Visit the Westfjords for the Northern Lights?

While most travelers flock to southern Iceland, like Reykjavik or the Golden Circle, the Westfjords remain a hidden gem for aurora hunters. This area has several key advantages that make it ideal for northern lights viewing:

  1. Low Light Pollution: With only small fishing villages dotting the landscape, the Westfjords are free from city lights, creating darker skies that intensify the visibility of the aurora.
  2. Remote and Scenic Landscape
    The mountains, fjords, and open coastline create wide horizons that are perfect for watching the aurora borealis in a quiet, natural setting.
  3. Smaller Crowds: While tourism has grown in Iceland, the Westfjords remains uncrowded. This means that you can enjoy the northern lights without the crowds, making it an intimate and personal experience.

Best Time to See the Northern Lights

The aurora is most active during the colder months when Iceland’s skies are dark enough to showcase this dazzling display. The best time for northern lights viewing is from late September to early April. During these months, the nights are longer and the skies are often clear, especially on cold, crisp nights.

 

Best Spots in the Westfjords for Aurora Viewing

No particular place in the Westfjords is definitively the best for viewing. The aurora can be spotted from just about anywhere in the region, as long as the weather permits. With the right conditions—dark skies and clear views—you can enjoy the stunning display from your cozy accommodation, from a hotspring or any open area, making the whole Westfjords a magical backdrop for this natural wonder.

Planning Tips for Aurora Hunters

  • Check Aurora Forecasts: Use websites or apps like Iceland at Night to track solar activity and aurora predictions.

  • Don’t Rely on the Kp-Index: One of the biggest mistakes people make when chasing the northern lights is relying too heavily on the Kp-index. It does not predict how bright or intense the aurora will be.

  • Watch the Real-Time Space Weather Data: Instead of focusing on the Kp-index, keep an eye on the Bz value. In simple terms, when Bz is negative (south), aurora activity is strong; when it’s positive (north), activity weakens or stops. The lower the Bz number, the better your chances of seeing bright northern lights.

  • Layer Up!: Icelandic winters are cold. Layering is key—opt for warm, insulated clothing, a hat, gloves, and thermal socks.

  • Be Flexible: Weather in Iceland changes quickly. If clouds move in, wait or travel to nearby areas—clear skies often return.

  • Stay in Rural Areas: Book accommodation away from city lights. Many Westfjords guesthouses are in remote areas, giving you a clear night sky right outside your door.

  • Guided Tours: If you'd like to opt for a guided tour, check out this list of local experts.

Beyond the Lights: Discovering Westfjords

While the northern lights is a great reason to visit the Westfjords, the region offers much more. From its beautiful landscapes to charming local cafes and fascinating museums, the rich nature and culture of the Westfjords provide countless ways to make your stay memorable. It’s an opportunity to explore one of the more remote areas of the world. Whether you're relaxing in a hot spring or standing on a breezy cliff, the aurora offers a memorable experience in Iceland’s beautiful landscape.