Stargazing in Iceland 2023-2024

Iceland's night sky will impress you with its sheer number of amazing stars

Best time: all year round (best from August to April)

It’s not a secret that Iceland is extremely famous for the Northern Lights. Many people come here to see this natural phenomenon and breathe crisp and clean air. Still, not everyone visits Iceland to enjoy the Northern Lights. Many space nerds find this county one of the best places to stargaze, and for a good reason.

You see, stargazing in Iceland is possible almost all year round. But the so-called stargazing season starts in late August and ends in late April. You just have to check the local forecast to choose a night when cloud coverage is forecasted below 30%. There are plenty of beautiful locations that offer you amazing views of the night sky. Obviously, you have to drive away from the Reykjavik capital area since it’s full of city lights. Remember that light pollution is stargazing’s biggest enemy. Thus, choose a places located far away from urban areas.

For instance, you can check Hotel Rangá, which offers unique stargazing tours to its observatory. It stands about 492 ft (150 m) east of the hotel and has three telescopes. The largest one is for seeing faint and faraway objects. The other two offer spectacular and tack-sharp views of nebulas, star clusters, planets, and the Moon.

In general, you can get the best stargazing experience in Iceland when grabbing these important things: - a good friend (ok, it’s not a thing); - a blanket or yoga mat; - warm clothes is a must—it’s Iceland, after all; - some mediocre binoculars; - some snacks and hot tea to stay warm.

Oh, and be patient—sometimes, it takes time to see the coolest constellations. The best time for stargazing is from 11 pm to 1 am.

Practical info

When is the stargazing season in Iceland?

The period between late August and late April is the stargazing season in Iceland, boasting visibility of the galaxy. This period provides the best stargazing time because of low cloud coverage. However, stargazing is possible at any time of the year, though it is not optimally visible during summer because it never gets entirely dark.

Where can I stargaze in Iceland?

Iceland offers several great stargazing locations that visitors can choose from. Urban settings like Reykjavik should be avoided because they contribute to light pollution. Some popular spots include the observatory at the Hotel Rangá, Thingvellir National Park, Hraunfossar, Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, Arnarstapi Village, and Thingvallavatn Lake. These far-off locations with less light are great for maximum visibility.

What is the best time for stargazing in Iceland?

From 11 pm to 1 am is the best time to view the galaxy in Iceland during the stargazing season. This period has the highest chances of maximum visibility and reduced clouds. While stargazing, it is crucial to remain patient while waiting for the best views, including waiting for the coolest constellation. Visitors should note that the Northern Lights, while offering a different experience, are also visible in Iceland and distinguishable from the stars.

What do I need to bring for a stargazing trip in Iceland?

Taking a stargazing trip in Iceland requires proper preparation beforehand. Travelers will need to bring warm clothing to stay protected from the wind and cold. Bringing a companion, a yoga mat, or a blanket to lie on, as well as binoculars, is recommended. It's also advisable to pack some hot tea and snacks to warm you from within. Visitors should prepare for unpredictable weather and be ready for the unanticipated.

What's the difference between stargazing and Northern Lights watching in Iceland?

Stargazing and Northern Lights watching give different experiences when visiting Iceland. Stargazing involves observing stars and constellations in the night sky of the country. The Northern Lights, on the other hand, manifestly display green lights crisscrossing in the night sky. Stargazing is best done in clear weather, while the Northern Lights are visible in cloudy weather. Both attractions should be part of anyone's visit to Iceland, owing to their uniqueness in the region.