Where and When to See the Northern Lights Around Lake Mývatn

Watching the Northern Lights is one of the most unforgettable winter experiences in Iceland. Around Lake Mývatn, volcanic landscapes, peaceful surroundings, and minimal light pollution create an exceptional setting for witnessing the aurora borealis. From lakeshores to lava fields, the region offers a variety of scenic places to enjoy this spectacular natural phenomenon.

Wondering when to see Northern Lights in Iceland and where to find the best viewing locations around Lake Mývatn? Continue reading to plan your ultimate Northern Lights adventure.

When to See Northern Lights in Iceland?

The Northern Lights season in Iceland typically runs from late August until mid-April, when the nights are dark enough for aurora viewing. For the best chance of seeing the aurora borealis, plan your visit between October and March. These months offer the longest hours of darkness, increasing your chances of spotting the Northern Lights. Displays are most common between 21:00 and 02:00, although they can appear at any time after dark.

Note: The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon created when charged particles from the Sun collide with gases in Earth's atmosphere. Their visibility depends on solar activity, clear skies, and darkness, so sightings are never guaranteed. However, visiting during the peak season gives you the best chance of seeing the aurora.

7 Best Places to See the Northern Lights Around Lake Mývatn

The Lake Mývatn region offers a variety of landscapes for aurora viewing. Whether you prefer lakeside scenery, volcanic craters, or geothermal areas, these locations provide excellent settings for watching the Northern Lights.

1. Skútustaðagígar Pseudocraters

The Skútustaðagígar Pseudocraters area is one of the top spots in Lake Mývatn. Formed by volcanic activity thousands of years ago, these grassy craters take on a snow-dusted, lunar-like appearance in winter.

The site is easy to reach and has convenient parking on the southern side of the lake. There’s also a short, easy circular walking route in the western part that usually remains accessible during winter. Combined with its wide-open views, it’s one of the most convenient places around Lake Mývatn to watch the Northern Lights.

2. Höfði Natural Preserve

Höfði Natural Preserve is one of the most peaceful places around Lake Mývatn after dark. Walking paths lead to quiet viewpoints overlooking the lake and the distinctive Kálfaströnd lava pillars rising from the water. In winter, snow-covered trees and lava formations add to the scenery, creating a beautiful foreground for the Northern Lights.

On calm nights, reflections on the lake can make the display even more memorable. The area also has very little artificial lighting, making it an excellent place to enjoy the aurora.

3. Dimmuborgir Rock Formations

Dimmuborgir is famous for its towering lava formations and unique volcanic scenery. At night, the dark rock formations create dramatic silhouettes beneath the illuminated sky. The area is especially appealing for photographers looking to combine the aurora with Iceland's volcanic landscape. 

Tip: Stay on marked paths and bring a torch, as trails can become icy during winter.

4. Hverfjall Crater Mountain

Standing about 420 m (1,378 ft) above sea level, Hverfjall offers sweeping views across the Lake Mývatn region. From the summit, you can watch dancing lights above lava fields, pseudocraters, and the surrounding mountains.

The elevated viewpoint has very little light pollution, making it one of the area's most rewarding places to enjoy the aurora. However, reaching the top involves a steep climb. Attempt this only if conditions are safe and you have suitable footwear, warm clothing, and a head torch. Winter weather can change quickly, and icy trails require extra care.

5. Earth Lagoon Mývatn

Earth Lagoon Mývatn offers a unique way to experience the Northern Lights in North Iceland. Instead of standing outside in the cold, you can soak in naturally heated geothermal water while watching the night sky.

The contrast between the warm lagoon and the crisp winter air makes the experience especially memorable. You can even enjoy drinks from the swim-up bar while relaxing in the water for an extra touch of indulgence.

Tip: If you prefer a quieter and more affordable soak, consider visiting the nearby Laugar Swimming Pool.

6. Hverir Geothermal Area

Just off the Ring Road, Hverir is one of Iceland's most active geothermal areas. Steam vents, bubbling mud pools, and colourful mineral deposits create an otherworldly landscape that looks especially dramatic beneath the Northern Lights.

Steam can occasionally drift across parts of the sky. But it can also add depth and atmosphere to your Northern Lights photos. Try experimenting with different angles to create a unique composition.

7. Krafla Caldera

Located just north of Lake Mývatn, the Krafla Caldera region features lava fields and the striking Krafla Víti explosion crater. 

On calm nights, the crater lake may even reflect the Northern Lights, creating a spectacular sight. Its remote location and dark surroundings make it one of the best places to experience the Northern Lights in North Iceland.

3 Best Places to See the Northern Lights Near Lake Mývatn

If you're exploring beyond Lake Mývatn, several nearby attractions also offer outstanding opportunities to watch the aurora.

1. Goðafoss Waterfall

Located along the Diamond Circle, Goðafoss is one of the must-see waterfalls near Lake Mývatn. The combination of its powerful cascade and the Northern Lights overhead creates one of North Iceland's most spectacular winter scenes. When visiting, exercise caution around icy paths and viewpoints.

2. Ásbyrgi Canyon

Located within Vatnajökull National Park, Ásbyrgi Canyon is bordered by towering cliffs that shield it from strong winds. On clear nights, the peaceful setting offers a unique backdrop for aurora viewing. Its distance from towns also means very little light pollution.

3. Dettifoss Waterfall

Dettifoss is Europe's most powerful waterfall and another remarkable place to watch the Northern Lights in Iceland. Winter access depends on road conditions, so always check winter roads before travelling. Some routes may close because of snow or ice.

Note: For a complete experience, take a look at these Mývatn itinerary ideas.

How to Photograph the Northern Lights Around Lake Mývatn

Now that you know where and when to see Northern Lights in Iceland, it's time to learn how to photograph them. These simple tips can help you get the best results:

• Use a sturdy tripod: This keeps your camera steady during long exposures.

• Focus manually: Set your focus to infinity to capture everything razor-sharp.

• Choose a wide-angle lens: Using a 14–24 mm lens helps capture more of the sky and the surrounding landscape.

• Experiment with your settings: Start with a shutter speed of 5–15 seconds and adjust your ISO depending on the brightness of the aurora.

• Use a remote shutter or timer: This prevents camera shake caused by pressing the shutter button.

• Carry a head torch with a red-light mode: It helps preserve your night vision and can be used to softly illuminate people in photos.

• Carry spare batteries: Cold temperatures can drain camera batteries much faster than usual.

• Include a foreground: Frame the aurora above landmarks such as Hverfjall or the Kálfaströnd lava pillars to create more striking compositions.

• If you're using a smartphone, switch to Night mode: Many modern phones can capture impressive aurora photos when held steady or mounted on a tripod.

• Arrive before the display begins: Set up your camera while it's still easy to see your surroundings, then wait for the aurora to appear. 

Remember to check the latest weather and aurora forecast via Vedur.is before leaving. Conditions can change quickly, so being flexible will give you the best chance of seeing and capturing the Northern Lights.

Experience the Northern Lights in the Lake Mývatn Region

Knowing where and when to see Northern Lights in Iceland is key to having an unforgettable aurora experience. Timing gives you the opportunity, while the right location makes the moment even more memorable. Around Lake Mývatn, you'll find a variety of scenic places to enjoy the aurora beneath some of Iceland's darkest skies.

If conditions allow, spend a few nights exploring different viewing locations around Lake Mývatn. This gives you more opportunities for clear skies while letting you experience the Northern Lights across a variety of spectacular landscapes.

FAQs

Is Lake Mývatn a good place to see the Northern Lights?

Yes, Lake Mývatn is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights in Iceland. Its inland location, minimal light pollution, and wide-open landscapes create excellent viewing conditions.

When is the best time to see the Northern Lights around Lake Mývatn?

The best time to see the Northern Lights around Lake Mývatn is between October and March. This is when long, dark nights provide the best viewing conditions. However, the aurora season typically begins in late August or early September and continues until early April.

Can you see the Northern Lights from your hotel around Lake Mývatn?

Yes, many accommodations around Lake Mývatn offer excellent Northern Lights viewing thanks to the region's minimal light pollution. Some hotels, including Berjaya Mývatn Hotel, Laxá Hótel, and Sel-Hótel Mývatn, also offer Northern Lights wake-up calls when the aurora appears.

Do I need a guided Northern Lights tour around Lake Mývatn?

Not necessarily, as many excellent viewing locations around Lake Mývatn are easy to reach by car. However, joining a Northern Lights tour can improve your chances of seeing the aurora. Local operators such as Geo Travel monitor forecasts, choose the best viewing locations, and handle winter driving.

What should I bring for Northern Lights viewing around Lake Mývatn?

Pack warm, layered clothing, insulated boots, gloves, and a hat when planning a Northern Lights hunt around Lake Mývatn. Bring a red light headlamp, a fully charged phone, and a camera with a tripod if you plan to take photographs.