ireland northern lights tour

How To See The Northern Lights in Ireland (With Map)

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: March 27, 2024

Yes, you can see the Northern Lights in Ireland, but several factors need to fall into place for them to be visible.

In order to see Aurora Borealis in Ireland, geomagnetic activity needs to reach a certain level and the skies need to be clear of both cloud and light pollution.

• When they’re visible: Between October and April
• The best place to see them: From Ireland’s north and west coast

Below, you’ll find how to know when the lights are visible and what locations, like Malin Head, make the best viewing points. Cheers!

Some quick need-to-knows about seeing the Northern Lights in Ireland

Click to enlarge

It’s worth taking 20 seconds to read the points below, first, as they’ll get you up-to-speed quickly:

1. How they form

The Northern Lights are formed when charged particles collide with the earth’s magnetic field causing the release of energy in the form of light. The light varies in colour depending on the type of particles. For example, oxygen molecules deliver a greeny/yellow colour.

2. The best time to see them

The best time to see the Northern Lights in Ireland is between October and April. Aurora activity requires specific conditions to take place along with clear skies. Peak time for the Northern Lights is between 00:00 and 02:00.

3. Where to see them

The best places to see the Northern Lights in Ireland are from the west and north coast in areas with little to no light pollution. Places like the Inishowen Peninsula (Donegal), the Mullet Peninsula (Mayo) and the Causeway Coast (Antrim).

4. Monitoring their visibility

There are several ways to know if Aurora Borealis is visible tonight. The first is by proactively monitoring the swpc.noaa.gov website. You can also use a free or paid alert service (info below).

How to know when Aurora Borealis is visible in Ireland

You can buy beautiful prints of these photos from Gareth Wray here

More often than not, people trying to see the Northern Lights in Northern Ireland and the Republic are left disappointed.

However, on those special occasions when the weather in Ireland is just right , an experience like no other takes place.

Here’s a quick checklist that explains  very clearly  how to know when the Northern Lights are visible.

1. The  right  solar conditions are key

In order to be able to see Aurora Borealis in Ireland, geomagnetic activity needs to reach a certain level.

This level is measured on a scale of 0 to 9 with a Kp number. In a nutshell, the higher the Kp number is, the larger the Aurora is.

A very handy resource is the swpc.noaa.gov website. The have a scale that’ll show you how likely it is that Aurora will be visible.

2. Clear skies are  essential

Let’s just say there’s the right solar conditions for seeing the Northern Lights in Ireland tonight.

Don’t get too excited just yet. Clouds can (and often do) hamper many quests to see Aurora Borealis.

It’s worth checking this page (it’s updated every 15 minutes) on the Irish National Meteorological Service’s website as it shows  very clearly  what the cloud cover is like.

3. Get to an area with low light pollution after midnight

The final step, once conditions are right, to seeing the Aurora Borealis in Ireland is to get to an area facing northward with very little light pollution.

I’ve stuck a map of the locations below (scroll down a bit) but arguably the best place to see the Northern Lights is the west and north coast.

4. Use an alert service

There are a number of different ways that you can get notified when the Northern Lights are visible in Ireland.

If you use Twitter, there’s the Aurora Alerts Ireland . This is an active account dedicated to providing updates. Another good Twitter account is Alan O’Reilly’s Carlow Weather .

If you  aren’t  on Twitter,  this monitoring app allows you to select your location and see how likely it is that Aurora will be visible.

Parts of Ireland where the Northern Lights are visible

We get emails  constantly  asking what is the best place to see the Northern Lights in Ireland. The map above will give you an insight into the places that Aurora Borealis is most frequently visible from.

Counties Donegal, Antrim, Sligo and Mayo are the key areas, however, the lights have been visible from many other places in Ireland, as you’ll see below.

County Donegal

You can see the Northern Lights in Donegal reasonably frequently. Some of the most common places they can be seen are from the Fanad Peninsula , the Inishowen Peninsula and the Rosguil Peninsula.

You’ll often see photos of the Northern Lights at Malin Head (Inishowen) – the most northerly point in Ireland.

County Mayo

If you’re looking to see the Northern Lights in Mayo, your best bet is to head to either Achill Island ( Minaun Heights , in Particular) or to the North Mayo Coast.

Places like the Mullet Peninsula, Downpatrick Head or any location along the north coast with little/no light pollution are all great vantage points.

County Sligo

There have been regular sightings of the Northern Lights in Sligo in recent years, most frequently from the Mullaghmore Peninsula .

Mullaghmore is a little peninsula a short drive from Sligo Town with some great viewpoints facing northwards.

Northern Ireland

You tend to see the Northern Lights in Northern Ireland from the Antrim Coast ( Dunluce Castle , the Giant’s Causeway and Whiterocks Beach , in particular).

Aurora Borealis has also been seen from parts of County Tyrone as recent as March of 2023.

County Dublin

It’s very, very rare that you’ll see any trace of the Northern Lights in Dublin, however,  some  news outlets online would lead you to believe otherwise.

The most recent sighting of Aurora Borealis in Dublin was in early 2023, with travellers aboard flights from Dublin to the UK posting photos of the sky above the capital alight.

County Kerry

Although rare, it has been possible to see the Northern Lights in Kerry in recent years. Ideally, you’d want to be in the Dark Sky Reserve and facing north.

Another possible location would be from Valentia Island where light pollution is very low.

County Galway

Although it’s reasonably rare to see the Northern Lights in Galway, it can be visible there at certain times, usually from parts of Connemara.

In recent years, it was visible in Spiddal, Moycullen and the Mutton Island Causeway.

County Cork

In 2023 those lucky enough to live in parts of West Cork were treated to an eyeful of the Northern Lights.

It was also visible from Cloughduv, not far from Cork City.

More Irish bucket list experiences

Photos via Shutterstock

If you’ve had a nosey at the Northern Lights and you fancy tackling some other bucket list experiences, here are several to try:

• The highest cliffs in Ireland
• The highest mountain in Ireland
• The Kerry Dark Sky Reserve
• The best things to do in Ireland

Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent most of the last 10 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 30 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries . Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.

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Monday 28th of September 2020

I’ve read in the news that the Aurora will be showing itself from tonight for three nights. I really do hope i get to see the magic. Where is the ideal place to be in Malin Head to see it? Is there an exact time for it? It’s about an hour and a half drive from where I’m at to Malin.

Mark O'Brien

Sunday 7th of June 2020

The Northern Lights would be spectacular but just to see the magnificence of The Milky Way gives me goose bumps. To think that my grandmother, her siblings, parents and countless generations of Donegal ancestors would have seen that gives me a feeling of awe and deep seated connection to them!

Saturday 7th of March 2020

As someone who lives in Donegal and likes to photograph the Northern lights here, I would like to advise on a couple of things this.

First, the northern lights will not look as spectacular as you see on the pictures, the camera will pick the colours up brighter and far more vibrant. Having said that I have witnessed decent displays in the past by eye.

Also be careful when using KP index as an indicator for seeing the aurora, sometimes it can be high but you might not see anything at all, a good app to check is something called Glendale skye auroras which give live aurora reports.

Saturday 18th of January 2020

Have just returned from Iceland after attempting to see the northern lights but failed, will be trying Ireland next

Thursday 16th of January 2020

Saw the Northern Lights several years ago travelling back from Waterford to Wexford early hours of the morning. They seemed to follow us for miles lighting up the sky. Spectacular.

Ireland Northern Lights: The Best Guide for Where and When to See Them

By: Author LetsGoIreland

Posted on Last updated: February 27, 2023

Table of Contents

• 1 Northern Lights Ireland
• 2 What are the Northern Lights?
• 3 What causes the different colors in the Northern Lights?
• 4 What conditions are necessary to view the Northern Lights?
• 5 Can you see the Northern Lights in Ireland?
• 6 Where can I see the Northern Lights in Ireland?
• 7 Where can I see the Northern Lights in Northern Ireland?
• 8 When is the best time of the year to see the Northern Lights in Ireland?
• 9 Where can I find reliable Northern Lights forecasts?
• 10 What equipment do I need to bring with me?
• 11 How can I photograph the Northern Lights?
• 12 Aurora Borealis Ireland 

Northern Lights Ireland

The Northern Lights , also called Aurora Borealis , is an awe-inspiring sight that has captivated the minds and imaginations down through the generations. 

And it is true, the Northern Lights are an absolutely beautiful and unforgettable natural phenomenon . Having once witnessed it, you will never be able to undo this experience in your mind . It is one of those things that should be on everyone’s bucket list of must-do experiences.

The best places to see the Northern Lights are spots that are located in the Aurora Zone . This zone stretches between 66° North and 69° North and thus includes the Arctic circle, Alaska, Canada, Greenland, Iceland, Finland, Sweden and Norway.

Now, if you wonder whether it is possible to see the Northern Lights also in Ireland, then the short answer is yes. When geomagnetic activity is high, the Auroral band can also stretch to Ireland and the UK. 

On this page, we will cover all the answers that you might have, e.g. “Where can I see the Northern Lights in Ireland” and “What is the best time to see the Northern Lights in Ireland”.

February 2023 UPDATE : The northern lights in late February 2023 have been some of the best shows seen in years.

The necessary conditions are excellent! Good luck if you are trying to catch them!

What are the Northern Lights?

The Northern Lights , also known as the Aurora Borealis , is the colorful display of streaming, dancing lights visible in the night sky of the northern hemisphere. The Northern Lights are actually the result of charged electric particles (electrons) emitted from the sun. This cloud of subatomic particles, also known as a coronal mass ejection, is then blown towards the earth by the solar wind hitting the gaseous particles in the earth’s upper atmosphere. 

The earth’s magnetic field deflects many of these electrically charged particles . However, the magnetic field around the north and south poles is weaker. This allows the particles from the sun to collide with oxygen and nitrogen gas in the earth’s atmosphere resulting in either the Northern or Southern Lights (Aurora Australis). 

The intensity of Northern Lights depends on the phase of the 11-year solar cycle . When there is a so-called solar maximum or solar max , more solar flare energy is emitted into space, which causes a stronger geomagnetic storm, which in turn means more aurora activity.

What causes the different colors in the Northern Lights?

During the collisions between particles, energy is exchanged. The amount of energy exchanged, as well as the type of gas, determines the color of the lights. Oxygen molecules emit yellowish-green light and pale red . Nitrogen , on the other hand, usually emits a blue light .

What conditions are necessary to view the Northern Lights?

Clear night skies, free of clouds are the best for viewing the Northern Lights. It is impossible to see the Aurora Borealis during daylight hours. Also, the chance of seeing the Northern Lights through thick cloud cover is virtually zero. But do not worry if there is a little scattering cloud, as it might actually just make the entire spectacle a bit more interesting depending on how the colors can be seen through the clouds. 

Light pollution from buildings, traffic and street lights greatly reduces the visibility of the Northern Lights. That is why if you want to see the Northern Lights Dublin is definitely not the best location in Ireland to see them. Thankfully, the pollution from lighting in rural Ireland does not interfere as much, enabling you to see the Northern Lights more clearly.

The best locations to see the Northern Lights are in an area that has very limited light interference , such as a national park , on a remote headland or a beach . Moonlight can also impact on the Northern Lights, especially if it is a weak aurora in front of the moon.

Can you see the Northern Lights in Ireland?

Yes, you can see the Northern Lights in Ireland, at least when the conditions are right. This means that the s olar activity and weather forecast must both be in your favor , neither of which you can guarantee or predict very far in advance.  So to be clear : you should not travel to Ireland with the expectation of definitely being able to witness the aurora there.

While Ireland does not get as much aurora action as the Nordic countries (Iceland, Norway, Sweden and Finland) for example, Ireland’s Northern Lights experience on the periphery of the auroral reach is a uniquely beautiful encounter in itself. Usually the Northern Lights in Ireland are seen on or just about the horizon to the north (rather than overhead as in the countries further north) with colors sometimes being reflected in the Atlantic Ocean .

Where can I see the Northern Lights in Ireland?

First off, it is possible to see some beautiful auroral displays in Ireland. Generally speaking, when all of the necessary conditions are in place, the northern headlands of County Donegal and coastal areas of County Sligo offer some of the best vantage points for viewing the northern lights in Ireland.

If the Northern Lights are very strong, many areas particularly along the west coast all along the Wild Atlantic Way , which receives less light pollution, might be in with the chance of seeing the Northern Lights.

Northern Lights Donegal

If there is an aurora alert for “Northern Lights Donegal Tonight”, then the best places you should head to are on the Inishowen Peninsula , Fanad Peninsula and Rosguil Peninsula . Here are some of the most well known spots: 

• Malin Head , Inishowen Peninsula: This headland is the most northerly part of the island of Ireland, possibly the best place to catch the northern lights. (Did you know? Malin Head is also called Banba’s Crown (Banba being another name for Ireland). 
• Dunree Head , Inishowen Peninsula: There is limited light pollution at Dunree Head and unobstructed northerly views making it a good spot to observer the Northern Lights
• Mamore Gap , Inishowen Peninsula: This elevated location is far from light sources and can offer good views of the night sky 
• Ballyliffin , Inishowen Peninsula: Head to the beaches here to get a good view northwards
• Fanad Head, Fanad Peninsula: Another headland with unobstructed views to the north
• Viewing Point on Rosguil Peninsula : This slightly elevated viewpoint as clear views to the north

Further south in County Donegal, the Northern Light can also be viewed from the area around Glencolmcille and Sliabh Liag . (The views from these locations are more to the north west rather than directly north.) 

( Bonus information: For those of you who are not familiar with the geography of the island of Ireland, this might be a bit confusing. In case you are wondering is Donegal in Northern Ireland (UK), then no, it is not. Donegal is the most northerly county in the Republic of Ireland and contains Malin Head, the most northerly point on the mainland of the island of Ireland . It borders the counties of Derry, Tyrone and Fermanagh, which are in Northern Ireland.) 

Northern Lights Sligo

If you are closer to Sligo when there is a Northern Lights Forecast Ireland in place, then some of the best spots to catch a glimpse of this spectacle are close to Easky . This location offers unobstructed northerly views. Mullaghmore is another alternative, although the views are not quite as expansive as those in Easkey.

Northern Lights Mayo

Mayo is home to one of Ireland’s Dark Sky Reserves , so if you are lucky enough to experience the right conditions, you know that light pollution won’t interfere too much with your views of the Northern Lights at this location. 

Plan to go to the coastal areas around Belmullet , such as Erris Head to get a good vantage point.

Northern Lights Kerry

When the Northern Lights are strong, there is a small chance of seeing them as far south as County Kerry, especially if the area has little light pollution. Kerry is home to the other one of Ireland’s Dark Sky Reserves, near Ballinskelligs on the Iveragh Peninsula. Even if you don’t see the Northern Lights, on a clear night you will have superb starry views of the sky.

Where can I see the Northern Lights in Northern Ireland?

The Aurora Borealis Northern Ireland spectacle can be seen from the northerly headlands along the coast. As always, it is best to be as far away from light pollution as possible in order to get the best views. 

Northern Lights Northern Ireland – Best Locations

• Dunluce , County Antrim: Northerly headland with the striking ruin of Dunluce Castle
• Ballintoy , County Antrim:  Harbor with direct north view
• Whitepark Bay Beach , County Antrim: North facing sandy beach 
• Rathlin Island , County Antrim: Island located ca. 8km (5 miles) off the coast of County Antrim with few inhabitants

When is the best time of the year to see the Northern Lights in Ireland?

Although it is possible to see the Northern Lights at any time of the year, there is a greater chance of seeing auroras during the months of winter and spring ( November to March ), with some more aurora activity generally being recorded around the equinoxes. 

November to March is also the best time in Northern Ireland to view the Northern Lights.

Patience is important while waiting for the aurora lights. Even when there is aurora activity, it must also coincide with clear skies, which can be an issue in Ireland.

(For a detailed guide about the weather in Ireland , as well as in depth guides about the weather in Ireland by month , we have you covered!)

It is worth remembering that there is absolutely no certainty that the Northern Lights will make an appearance. This makes the experience of an aurora viewing all the more magical, if it actually takes place.

Where can I find reliable Northern Lights forecasts?

Global general information.

The best Northern Lights forecast by far (according to my knowledge and research) can be found on the website of the Space Weather Prediction Center by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration . There you will find a 30 Minute Aurora Forecast that shows the intensity and location of the auroras (not just of the Northern lights in the Northern Hemisphere, but also of the Southern Lights, or Aurora Australis in the Southern Hemisphere). 

They also released a feature where you can see an Aurora 3 day forecast (based on the predicted global geomagnetic activity index).

Another great Auroral forecast site is www.spaceweather.com , where you can look at the current conditions of the solar wind and other statistics and predictions.

Northern Lights Ireland Forecast

For Ireland, there is no dedicated Aurora Borealis forecast website, but there is a Twitter account called “ Aurora alert Ireland “, which tweets when the Northern Lights are visible over Ireland. (It hasn’t been very active lately though.)

What equipment do I need to bring with me?

Firstly, you need to make sure that you are wrapped up warmly with the necessary warm coat, ha t, scarf and gloves . Standing around in the cold can be bone chilling, so don’t forget to wear two pairs of socks too!

Pack a flask for some tea or hot chocolate too. This works wonders to warm your hands as well as your insides! 

Walking along Irish headlands in the dark is dangerous, so a torch or flashlight to guide you is essential. 

Many people make the mistake of relying on their mobile phones to take photos of the Northern Lights (like us…see photo). Anyways, even the best camera phones cannot compare to a proper camera. Ideally you will need a manual camera with a full-frame DSLR . In the best case, you also have a wide angle lens with swift aperture. 

Additionally, in order not to get a blurry shot like we got above, you want a sturdy tripod .

Expert tip (because this has happened to us): Cold conditions zap the energy from batteries . So make sure to always have a few spare batteries on board. Also, it doesn’t do any harm to have a spare memory card. 

And most of all, you need patience and some luck in order to witness a great auroral display.

Note : Please be aware that light pollution might hinder other Aurora seekers from having the best experience possible. So make sure to turn off your car’s headlights out and keep the use of torches and other sources of light to a minimum .

How can I photograph the Northern Lights?

If the requirements are right ( dark sky, not too cloudy, high aurora activity , patience level still acceptable and conditions of feet and hands not comparable to ice blocks yet), then use the following steps (best case, you have tried the settings out at home beforehand, so that it doesn’t take too much effort, to work it out):

1) Set up your tripod, mount your camera on it

2) Set your camera to manual

3) ISO setting: Most photographers recommend using ISO 1600 (that will make your photo appear brighter; the higher the ISO setting, the brighter the image gets)

4) Focus your lens to infinity, make sure it is in focus

5) Aperture should be at the lowest number as your lens permits it (this makes the opening of the lens bigger, meaning more light can get in)

6) The exposure time depends on the aurora activity, try maybe 20 seconds for a start (faster auroras need less exposure time)

7) Take some practice shots to see that the images are not blurry

8) Wait and hopefully capture some beautiful shots

Bonus Tip for Ireland Aurora Borealis Photography : The following photographers have captured some fantastic shots of the Northern Lights in Ireland:

• Adam Rory Porter Photography
• Brendan Alexander of Donegal Skies
• Rita Wilson Photography
• Michael Gill Photography

Aurora Borealis Ireland 

These resources will hopefully guide you to the right locations to see the Northern Lights Ireland 2023!

Now all you have to do is hope for the right conditions and weather in Ireland .

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See the Northern Lights in Ireland: Everything You Need to Know

Most travellers head to Iceland or Norway in winter to see the spectacular natural spectacle that is the Northern Lights. However, what few people realise is that actually, with a bit of luck and planning, you can see the light show in Ireland.

There’s no need to venture deep into the cold, icy realms of the Arctic Circle, when you can simply head up to the northern coastline of Ireland for a great chance to spot the lights.

Of course, nothing is guaranteed, but if you travel at the right time of the year, enjoy some clear skies and head far away from any light pollution, then you might be able to enjoy the Northern Lights in Ireland.

To help you to plan your trip , here’s everything you need to know about seeing the Northern Lights in Ireland.

What Causes the Northern Lights?

The Northern Lights are a spectacular natural light show that you can see in certain areas within the Northern Hemisphere (there is an equivalent in the Southern Hemisphere too).

The Aurora Borealis, as the lights are otherwise known in Latin, are magnificent displays of colourful lights and patterns that appear in the night sky. The scientific causes of the lights, both north and south, are still not fully understood. The basic premise though, is that charged particles emitted by the sun, collide with particles in the earth’s atmosphere, releasing energy in the form of different colours of light.

The lights can only be seen extremely far north or extremely far south because when these collisions occur, the particles are drawn by the electromagnetic field towards the north or south poles. Even today, as the phenomenon is still being studied, travellers find the event to be mystical and mesmerising. Throughout human history, legends and stories have abounded in the far reaches of both hemispheres, as people struggled to find meaning in the dazzling shows they witnessed in the skies.

What Conditions Are Needed for the Northern Lights?

The Northern Lights cannot be seen all through the year, because certain conditions are needed to allow you to experience the light show. Certain destinations, such as Iceland or Norway, are particularly renowned as Northern Light spotting locations, because for long periods of the year it’s easy to see the light show, even from cities or towns. Because they are so far north, the lights are more pronounced. Ireland, on the other hand, is far south in comparison to the Arctic Circle, and that means the chances of spotting them are much lower.

It’s far from impossible though and it’s certainly more of a challenge too. But given the right conditions, it’s perfectly reasonable to be able to see the Northern Lights in Ireland.

The further north you are in Ireland, the better your chances, because the island is really on the very edge of the Auroral Zone, and is one of the most southerly locations in the Northern Hemisphere where you have a decent chance of seeing them.

As the Northern Lights are a light show, then it makes sense that the darker the sky, the more vivid the display is going to be. To maximise your chances, you need dark skies, as the more light pollution there is, the more interference there is, and the fainter the Northern Lights will appear. It’s impossible to see them if you are in a big city, so get out into the countryside. Even being in a town or village, you’re unlikely to see the lights, so you stand the best chance by heading out into the countryside, as far away from any light sources as possible.

The Best Time of Year to See the Northern Lights in Ireland

The Northern Lights are best seen through winter, although the phenomenon does technically occur all through the year. In summer though, the days are much longer than in the winter, and the brighter light means you would have to be very lucky to see a display in the sky, because the odds are stacked against you.

With shorter days and less light all round, the winter months are the best time of year to try and spot the Northern Lights. Unfortunately though, even the best science out there can only narrow down when they will appear to a span of weeks or even months, so no matter how well you try to time it, there’s always going to be an element of luck involved. If you are set on spotting them, then just ensure you leave enough time for your trip to Ireland to allow you to wait it out. If you only have one or two days to go Northern Lights hunting in the countryside, then you are likely to end up disappointed – unless you get very lucky or are meticulous with your planning and preparation.

Whereas in the Polar Regions and in countries closer to the Arctic Circle you have a very long Northern Lights season, in Ireland, the time span is much shorter. The best months to spot the light show are between November and February, and you’ll want to venture out late in the night when the skies are at their darkest.

The Weather and the Northern Lights

As well as the time of year, the weather also plays a huge role in your chances of seeing the Northern Lights. Unfortunately though, with the best time to spot the Aurora Borealis being winter, it’s also highly likely that the weather won’t be agreeable, so when you plan your Northern Lights watching trip you’ll need to scour weather forecasts to narrow the timeframe down even further.

It’s known that large geomagnetic storms in the atmosphere can cause the Aurora Zone to spread further south – increasing your chance of seeing a vivid display in Ireland. The larger the geometric storm, the brighter the lights will be, and the further south they will be seen. You can check for geometric storms easily online.

Other weather conditions will also affect your ability to see the lights locally. The biggest obstacle will be clouds, so you’ll want to head out hunting for the lights when the forecasts are predicting clear skies. If it’s going to be rainy or snowy, then you haven’t got much chance unfortunately.

Ireland can have bad weather through winter – that’s no secret! – but at least it won’t be nearly as cold as heading into the dark depths of the Arctic Tundra in Norway or Iceland, which is one reason why Ireland is becoming an increasingly popular, if unconventional, Northern Lights destination.

The Best Places to See the Northern Lights in Ireland

You have a chance of spotting the Northern Lights anywhere in Ireland where there’s little light pollution and dark skies. It’s easy to work out where not to be on the island – Dublin in the south and Belfast in the north are the two most obvious examples of places to stay away from. But it’s harder to work out where to go to actually see them.

Like everything related to the Aurora Borealis, working out the best place to travel to see the lights is a bit of a mystery, but the further north you are, and the more remote you are, the higher your chances. Luckily, there are also a few destinations that have a proven track record of dazzling visitors with epic displays in the night skies. Here are the best spots to visit in Ireland for the Northern Lights.

Malin Head is the best and most popular location in the Republic of Ireland to catch the Northern Lights, because this is the most northerly point.

For that reason alone, it makes for an exceptional Aurora Borealis watching destination. Throw in the fact that it’s also a supremely beautiful place with little light pollution, and you have a winner.

Malin Head is in County Donegal, with the northernmost point named Banba’s Crown. There are some great spots here, particularly if you’re into photography, with some of the best including the local lighthouse or Ballyhillin Beach.

Inishowen Peninsula

Within County Donegal, Malin Head is on the wider Inishowen Peninsula. But you don’t need to limit yourself to the most northerly point, because when conditions are good it’s likely you’ll see the Northern Lights over much of the surrounding area.

That’s great if you’re looking for a more secluded spot to set up while you watch the Aurora Borealis unfold, and you’ll have many more options when it comes to epic scenery.

Get away from the towns and head to the dark spots on the beaches all along the Wild Atlantic Way, where you’ll find innumerable locations to base yourself to see the lights in the sky above.

A smaller peninsula that’s also part of County Donegal, Fanad Head is perfectly located on the northern coast of Ireland. That makes it another excellent location for watching the Northern Lights, and you’ll find it’s quieter here than on the neighbouring peninsula.

There are just a few small villages in the area, meaning that light pollution will be at a minimum, while there are some stunning natural features to enjoy too, from the lakes and loughs to the coastline.

Rosguill Peninsula

Again, the Rosguill Peninsula is in County Donegal, overlooking the stormy seas of the wild Atlantic Ocean.

Very few people live on the peninsula itself, meaning that you’ll have most of the space to yourself, and there will be few lights around to disturb your night vision and dilute the Northern Lights.

Giants Causeway

If you’re heading across to Northern Ireland to watch the Northern Lights, then don’t worry, because there are some excellent spots on the other side of the border too.

Anywhere along the northern coastline that’s set away from towns and villages is perfect, and you’ll find that there’s plenty of seclusion to be had.

If you’re looking for a truly iconic spot to visit though, then why not head to Giants Causeway ? It’s one of Northern Ireland’s most dramatic natural features, and it’s found far enough north that when the Aurora Borealis is scheduled, it should be visible from the coast here. The Giants Causeway makes for a truly epic photo opportunity under the Northern Lights.

What Should I Take with Me to See the Northern Lights?

Having a few basic pieces of equipment can help you to have a more enjoyable Northern Lights experience in Ireland.

First, take a camera and a tripod to capture some truly lasting memories of the event. (More tips and tricks on photography below.)

Second, take a torch or ensure you have a phone with enough battery to use its torch function. You’ll be in some deep, dark spots, and you’ll likely want some light so you can see what you’re doing while you’re waiting for the spectacle to unfold.

Third, wrap up warm. You’ll likely be out in the middle of nowhere, in the dead of night, in the coldest months of the year. Irish weather can be unpredictable, so wrap up warm in layers and ensure that you have waterproofs in case things take a turn for the worse.

Photographing the Northern Lights

One of the best reasons to visit Ireland to see the Northern Lights is for the photographic opportunities. As well as capturing the beautiful colours in the sky, you can have incredible backdrops of mountains and sweeping coastline illuminated by the Aurora Borealis.

Photographing the lights can be tricky though. To get the best pictures, you’ll want to scout out positions beforehand in the daytime to find the best angles, especially if you want to feature particular pieces of scenery.

To get the most vivid colours and the sharpest images, you’ll need to invest in a tripod or find a very stable rock to balance your camera on. As it’s so dark and the only light is from the Northern Lights themselves, you’ll need to use long exposure techniques – a long shutter speed – to fully capture them. To do this and to expose an image for even a few seconds requires a tripod and cable release to stop the final image from blurring.

To find out more about booking a trip to Ireland to see the Northern Lights or to request a quote for your Ireland adventure, contact Overland Ireland today.

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Northern Lights in Ireland: Where, When and How

Categories Donegal , Leitrim , Sligo , Where To Go

Seeing the Northern Lights or Aurora Borealis is probably among those that most people would love to witness if given the chance.

Nature’s magical light show is pretty elusive though, as it only seems in areas closer to the North Pole (or the South Pole, and it’s called Aurora Australis).

But do you know there are places in Ireland where you can see the Northern Lights? So read on to find out how to see Northern Lights in Ireland . 

Things you'll find in this article

When to expect Northern Lights in Ireland

1. arranmore, donegal, 2. dunaff, county donegal, 3. dunree, donegal, 4. mamore gap, donegal, 5. malin head co. donegal, 6. moville, inishowen, donegal, 7. tory island, donegal, 8. rosinver, leitrim, 9. belmullet, mayo, 10. inisturk, mayo, 11. mullaghmore, sligo.

This colorful light display is a result of the disturbance in the magnetosphere caused by solar winds.

When it appears, there are like ribbons of light swaying in the sky and you’d even hear the hum of the wind along. This is a definite must-experience if you’re in high-altitude areas close to the earth’s poles. 

There is no way anyone can predict what kind of aurora will appear, or when exactly.

However, the best times of the year to try and catch nature’s amazing lights show is during winter or spring. Plan ahead and reserve a set amount of nights when you’d go chasing the northern lights.

There’s no guarantee you’d see them on your first try but that’s part of the charm of the experience of the northern lights — the chase is an adventure in itself. 

Where can you see Northern Lights in Ireland?

In Ireland, with its diverse geography and proximity to the Arctic circle, it is possible to see the aurora, particularly in the North and West Coasts.

These regions have mostly unspoilt areas and no light pollution, perfect for viewing the aurora. These light shows are often seen in the northern horizon, or overhead if the place is close enough to the North Pole. 

So here are all the places in Ireland where you’d most likely encounter the elusive Northern Lights.

Accessible via a ferry ride from Burtonpoint, Arranmore Island is mostly unspoilt, and there’s no light pollution at night.

This is Donegal’s largest island and if you’re here for the northern lights, make sure you stay in the sheltered south side parts such as Ballintra, Fallagowan, Leabgarrow, or Pollawaddy.

The stunning Dunaff Head known for its beaches and mountain is situated by the Lough Swilly estuary. Its landscape provides the perfect background for the Aurora Borealis.

It is also close to towns like Claggan and Leehan, which offers accommodations, cafes, and pubs for the convenience of those going there to see ‘the lights’.

Dunree is best known for the Dunree Fort, a former stronghold that’s now a military museum. This fort also provides the best location to look northeast and watch out for the Northern Lights.

The views there spread across the nearby areas, free of any light obstruction making it the perfect spot to wait for the aurora borealis.

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Ashley Reddin (@ashleyreddin_) on Aug 25, 2019 at 11:04am PDT

The sheltered Mamore Gap is one of the best places to see the northern lights in Ireland. It is slightly off the coast and has amazing panoramic views of the north and west horizons.

It has some interesting places where you can stay to wait for the lights, such as a Neolithic campsite and Holy Well. The place is completely free of light pollution that it’s a total blackout at night, making the sky clear for the elusive lights show.

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Darren Smith (@smithyd2) on Jul 15, 2019 at 12:02pm PDT

As Ireland’s northernmost point, Malin Head offers the best chance to see the Aurora Borealis. It is located on the Inishowen peninsula, in Donegal.

Banba’s Crown is the northern tip of the head, perfect for watching the skies. There’s also the Ballyhillion’s raised beaches , which is ideal for a stroll while keeping an eye out for the northern lights.

The picturesque Moville town is located on the eastern part of the Inishowen peninsula. The landscape here is a lot different than the rough Malin Head but just as magical once the northern lights appear. 

Overlooks Lough Foyle and has plenty of sheltered species to protect visitors from the elements while they wait for the aurora.

An island steeped in history and legend, Tory Island’s rugged landscape provides one of the most glorious sites to witness the northern lights. It is a bit difficult to reach though, and the weather can be unpredictable .

Still, chasers of the aurora take the ferry from the harbors of Bunbeg and Magheroarty to experience both the mystical lights show and one of Ireland’s most unspoiled places.

Apart from Donegal , Leitrim County has some great locations to see the aurora borealis, such as Rossinver. Situated on the southern shores of Lough Melvin, this tranquil fishing village provides the ideal backdrop when ‘the lights’ appear.

There are the secret waterfalls , a 9th-century grave slab, an Iron age fort, and an abbey that are amazing sites to set your camera on a long exposure.

Belmullet town in Mayo has sandy beaches and towering cliffs perfect for watching the sky to see the northern lights.

It also has two bays — Blacksod Bay and Broadhaven Bay that are both ideal locations to wait for the aurora. The coast is a great place to either stroll around in while you wait, with its beaches and cliffs.

Regarded as one of the most beautiful places in Ireland, Inishturk is also among the best places to watch out for the northern lights.

The sheltered eastern part of Ballyheer and Guaranty are said to be the best locations to wait for the appearance of the aurora borealis because here you can easily access the center of the island where there are zero light pollution and amazingly clear skies.

Best known as a surfing destination , the Mullaghmore in Sligo is also an ideal place to catch the northern lights.

Its dramatic cliffs offer amazing views of the western horizon with the monolithic Ben Bulben, as well as the Atlantic crashing against the rocks below.

Along with clear, unobstructed views of the sky meeting the northern horizon, this is another great spot to see the aurora borealis. 

The northern lights often appear in high-altitude places and those areas with zero light pollution. These places are often cold and dark so it’s recommended to come prepared to better experience it.

Make sure you bring a very strong torch or flashlight to help take good photos, a camera, tripod, and enough batteries to make sure you continuously capture the sky while the ‘lights’ present themselves.

Hi, I’m Christine – a full-time traveler and career woman. Although I’m from the Philippines, my location independent career took me to over 40 countries for the past 8 years. I also lived in 3 continents – from the Caribbean, South East Asia to Africa. But despite living in several countries, my love for Ireland remains the same. A country that had been a part of my life since I was 14 because of my love for Irish music and bands. Ireland Travel Guides was born because of this passion and hopefully, in some little ways, this website will be able to help you on your next trip to Ireland.

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Chasing the Northern Lights

Grab your camera and capture nature's dazzling light show in Ireland's night skies.

Chasing the Northern Lights in Ireland

We asked these astrophotographers for their tips and tricks on capturing the Aurora Borealis in Ireland's night skies

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You’re sitting in the dark on a quiet beach on the Inishowen Peninsula in County Donegal and then it happens… the night sky comes alive with rolling waves of pink, green and blue. The Northern Lights are putting on a show.

To see this amazing natural phenomenon, you need three things: the right solar conditions, clear skies to the north, and no light pollution. That’s why the Inishowen Peninsula (and Ireland's northern coast) has such a reputation as a great place to spot them.

This remote and unspoiled landscape is Ireland’s most northerly point (next stop – the Arctic Circle) and is well known for its dark skies. So follow the advice of these stargazers, light chasers and astrophotographers, get your camera, pick your viewing spot and wait for the perfect shot.

Aurora Borealis useful links

Dunaff, County Donegal

© Martina Gardiner

Martina Gardiner

Martina Gardiner is a professional photographer and videographer with a passion for night-time photography.

“It’s often in the hope of a good Aurora show and a chance of clear skies that I take off into the night with my camera. Aurora or not, the night skies can be magical in Inishowen.

It was mid-April when I took the photo of this old boat under the Northern Lights. We had set off early that night and a few hours into our adventure, we arrived at the quiet little pier at Dunaff. The patchy cloud that had looked as if it would never leave lifted suddenly. The sky was completely clear and the Milky Way arched low over the northern horizon. It's often a bit of a waiting game for the perfect conditions but when it comes together it can be awesome.”

Martina's top tip: The stars alone are worth heading out for, but the chance of an Aurora sighting always makes the chase even more exciting.

Malin Head, County Donegal

 © Bren Whelan

Bren Whelan

Outdoor instructor Bren Whelan runs Donegal Climbing and is a keen amateur astrophotographer.

“It's early October 2015 and I’m sitting alone inside my tent, which is perched on the edge of a 60-metre-high cliff at Ireland’s most northerly point, Malin Head. Below me the wild Atlantic Ocean’s roar breaks the silence and solitude of this isolated location where I have chosen to come in search of nature’s most mystical light show: the Aurora Borealis.”

Bren’s top tip: 5 camera settings to help you capture the Northern Lights

• Set your aperture as low as possible, i.e. F2.8.
• Set your ISO to a minimum of 800 and a maximum of 1600.
• Focus your camera on a good foreground feature close to the camera.
• Turn off any image stabilisation settings.
• Set your exposure time to between five to 30 seconds.

Fort Dunree, County Donegal

© Adam Rory Porter

Adam Rory Porter is an amateur photographer and professional print maker based in Inishowen, County Donegal.

“To see the Northern Lights appear on your camera’s LCD screen is wonderful, as is viewing them on a laptop or PC when you get home from the darkness. But to see them with your own eyes whilst out under the skies in Inishowen is something else...

This image, taken on a beautiful wee pier in Urris in Inishowen, is my favourite photo of the Northern Lights, as it was a team effort between my wife and I. She entertained our daughters with songs and chocolate buttons and encouraged me to take more photos as I might not get another shot!”

Adam’s top tip: If you want to photograph the Northern Lights on your mobile device, make sure it’s on a tripod or a stable surface and try using an app to slow down the shutter speed.

Ballycroy National Park, County Mayo

Where can I see the Northern Lights in Ireland?

Where do you want to go.

Do you feel like tasting wild Atlantic sea spray on your lips? Strolling through vibrant city streets? Exploring ancient ruins? Right this way…

The Northern Lights in Ireland – Best Places To View Them

It’s almost the best time of year again to watch the incredible light show that is the Northern Lights, but where in Europe are the best places to catch them? Did you know they can actually see the Northern Lights in Ireland, with some of the best viewing spots in Inishowen, County Donegal. You can also spot them further along the coast in  Northern Ireland . if you’re interested in  seeing the Southern lights, read this post!

Where to see the Northern Lights in Ireland

Feature image credit: Image: Michael Gill / Tourism Ireland

Inishowen Peninsula and the Northern Lights

The Inishowen Peninsula in Donegal is a stunning example of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, and one of the  most beautiful places to visit in Ireland . Sculptured by the Atlantic’s waves and winds for millennia, it’s northernmost point, Malin Head, is the very definition of wild and is one of the best vantage points from which to view the Northern Lights in Ireland.

There is very little light pollution on Inishowen so if bracing into the biting winds on Malin Head to watch the ‘lights’ isn’t your thing, you can always visit Moville on the eastern side of Inishowen for a more sheltered view. The picturesque town overlooking Lough Foyle has an old Victorian park which has a bandstand to shelter from the winds.

Dunree Head on the western side also offers shelter in the form of the decommissioned Dunree Fort – now a museum – and has several nature walks and a beautiful beach in a small bay to keep you occupied during the day.

Credit: Adam Rory Porter / Tourism Ireland

What are the Northern Lights?

The Northern Lights or Aurora Borealis are one of the most mystical and awe inspiring displays to be found in nature. Charged particles in the solar wind collide with the Earth’s magnetosphere at the North Pole causing multicoloured displays of swirling light in the night sky.

Can I really see the Northern Lights in Ireland?

Depending on the strength of the Solar Wind, the Aurora can be seen in latitudes south of the Arctic Circle. While it is impossible to predict what type of display may occur, the lights will usually appear in the northern horizon but can sometimes appear directly overhead as they would at the North Pole.

Credit: Michael Gill / Tourism Ireland

When is the best time to see the Northern Lights?

There is no guarantee that the lights will appear but the best time to try and catch them is in Winter and Spring. Predicating an appearance of an Aurora can only really be done on the day and then there is no guarantee it will happen. If the forecast is for clear skies, travel to Inishowen and hope for the best.

What do I need to bring?

A proper winter coat or wind breaker that can protect you from those Atlantic winds with warm layers underneath. A flask of warm soup or tea would make the time pass that bit easier while waiting in the cold.

To get some cool photos we recommend bringing a very  strong torch / flash light , not only to help you find you way, but to highlight people or objects in your pictures.

If you already have one or are an aspiring photographer, this is pretty obvious. If you’re neither of those, I really do recommend investing in some sort of camera before a trip to see the Northern Lights as the photo opportunities are unbelievable. One of the most popular cameras on the market right now is the mirrorless Sony Alpha range. As new models keep getting released, the slightly older (but still amazing)  Sony Alpha A6000  can be bought for less than $500.

If you are serious about getting photos of the Northern Lights, then investing in a decent tripod is a must. The  Joby Gorillapod  is what I use. It’s super sturdy but very affordable. It’s probably not for super professional photographers but does the job for me!

READ NEXT:  An Essential Packing List For Travel in Ireland

Can I photograph the Northern Lights?

It can be done with the right sort of camera and lens. A tripod is essential as you’ll need a 8 to 20 second exposure depending on the lens, iso and aperture. If you are serious about photographing the northern lights, don’t show up without  a sturdy tripod  – otherwise your photos will be blurry!

Credit: Chris Hill / Tourism Ireland

Where do I stay?

If you’re going to travel all that way, you’re going to have to make a weekend of it. Besides, if you miss the Aurora on the first night you might still catch it on the second. There’s plenty to do in the meantime with lots of walks and beaches and you can even try your hand ‘as Gaelige’ with the locals in their very particular dialect. Inishowen has no shortage of accommodation from the Sandrock Holiday Hostel in Malin Head (cash only – no cards) to the 4 star Redcastle Hotel in Moville.

Don’t be a light polluter!

Be aware of other Aurora seekers and turn your lights off outside and inside your car. It’s not uncommon for people to leave their car engine’s running so they can shelter from the wind. Keep the use of torches to a minimum and dim the illumination on your phone so your eyes can adjust more easily to the natural light.

How do I get to Inishowen?

The best way is by car. Malin Head is over 4 hours from Dublin, over 4.5 from Galway and over 6 hours from Cork. The fastest route from the east coast or from the south to Inishowen will take you into Northern Ireland via Antrim and Derry or via Tyrone and Derry, so either bring some Sterling or have a bank card that will work in the North in case of emergencies. Don’t forget, with Liberty Insurance you can get a  car insurance  quote online in as little as two minutes. Terms and conditions apply….but you’re better off not driving through the wilds of Donegal without insurance!!

Last updated on October 13th, 2023 at 12:30 pm

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Northern Lights in Donegal

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Experience spectacular multicoloured display of the Northern Lights dancing in the night skies above Donegal.... In real life it's much better. Is this on your bucket list? Image © Bren Whelan

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Best places in Ireland and Northern Ireland to see the Northern Lights

The coming equinox on September 23 – could give you a better chance than normal of witnessing it

• 18:07, 19 SEP 2023

You don’t have to travel to Iceland or Alaska to see one of the most stunning natural displays in the world – the northern lights set the night sky aglow in many locations across Ireland and Northern Ireland.

Although clouds can often obscure the breathtaking green, and sometimes pink, blue and purple aurora borealis, on a clear night when there’s been the necessary solar activity to create the lights, they can be seen from the north coast of Northern Ireland and parts of the Antrim coast, to Co Mayo on the west coast of Ireland, Ashbourne in Co Meath, and – if it’s a strong, vivid display – the Dublin area.

And while there’s never any guarantee you’ll see the spectacular natural light show, the coming equinox – on September 23 – could give you a better chance than normal of witnessing it, because of conditions in the Earth’s magnetic field and the tilt of the planet at that time, explains David Moore, editor of Astronomy Ireland magazine.

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“If the sun’s very quiet that day, then we’re not going to get the aurora, but even if there’s a modest explosion on the sun during the equinox, it can lead to a display of the aurora,” he says. “The equinox increases the chances, rather than guarantees you seeing it.”

As for where in Ireland you’ll see the lights, the rural north coast of Northern Irelan d is one of the best locations – although it altogether depends on the strength of the aurora, whether there are clear skies, and if there’s no light pollution from cities and towns.

“People who live on the north coast of Ireland have a great view, because they’re looking out over the Atlantic ocean and there’s no town lights in the distance from there,” says Moore.

“Mayo’s a good place as well, because again, it’s looking out over the Atlantic ocean. But you can see it from anywhere in the country if you have clear skies.”

The aurora process begins after solar flares – eruptions on the sun – blast billions of tons of radiation out into space, explains Moore. These atomic particles hit the Earth’s atmosphere about two days after they’ve blasted off the sun, and some are caught in the Earth’s magnetic field, and drawn towards the North and South poles. There, they slam into the atoms and molecules that make up various gases in the atmosphere, creating the northern lights’ characteristic vibrant colours as they collide.

“The particles normally create a lovely oval round the North Pole, and when they’re very intense, that ring gets bigger and can come as far south as Ireland, or just off the north coast of Ireland,” says Moore. “If it gets really active it comes right the way over Ireland, and goes further south from us on very rare occasions, but you need a really major explosion on the sun for that to happen.”

He explains that people who want to see the aurora should make sure they’re away from man-made lights, stressing: “If you live in a town or a city, you’ll only see the major displays.

“I’ve seen fantastic aurora from Dublin city, where the sky was ablaze with northern lights, but you’ll only see the major shows from a bright location. So if you live in the countryside and there are no towns or bright lights in the distance to the north of you, you can get a great view from Ireland.

“If you’re on the north side of Dublin though, looking out from Co Dublin towards Co Meath, you can get great views – I’ve taken camera crews out to places near Ashbourne and had amazing views of the aurora, as good as anything you’ll see in National Geographic.”

Because spacecraft are watching the sun, astronomers can predict if solar explosions are going to happen and when the particles are expected to reach the Earth’s atmosphere. Moore says Astronomy Ireland runs an aurora alert service for Ireland – posting every afternoon what’s going to happen in the sky that night, including the aurora.

He says the aurora can be seen at any time of the night, sometimes all night, sometimes for just an hour or two, and adds: “The sun goes through cycles of activity ever 11 years, and it’s due to peak in 2025, so the next few years are actually very good for seeing the northern lights.

“The particles from the sun hit the atmosphere well above the clouds, so if it’s cloudy all you’ll see is clouds – and from Ireland, that’s a serious problem. There can be fantastic reports of the lights all around the world, and all we have is cloud and rain. But we do get clear skies sometimes!”

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• Introduction
• Day 1 Arrive Dublin
• Day 2 Cliffs of Moher, Burren and Galway - Full-Day Tour
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• Day 4 Dublin to Edinburgh by flight
• Day 5 Loch Lomond National Park and Stirling Castle - Small Group Tour
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• Gina · 8th May 2024 We did a customized Italy tour plus 2 days Amsterdam at the end of our trip. The team was fantastic in getting us... Show more
• Shaoyuan · 7th May 2024 Hannah, Lily, Rose, Wendy, Alberto, and Sam were wonderful to work with. We loved the Venetian tour with Denise too!
• Jonathan · 6th April 2024 The trip was a great time and enjoyed by all four of us. The accommodations were not needed in Venice, but our stays... Show more

Dates & Availability

Pay-by-instalments

Take advantage of our 0% interest instalment plan on selected departures. Learn More

• Upcoming departures
• August 2024
• September 2024
• October 2024
• November 2024
• December 2024
• January 2025
• February 2025
• Thursday 23 May, 2024 Saturday 1 Jun, 2024 English Multiple Room Types €2,853 Confirm Dates
• Monday 27 May, 2024 Wednesday 5 Jun, 2024 English Multiple Room Types €2,853 Confirm Dates
• Friday 31 May, 2024 Sunday 9 Jun, 2024 English Multiple Room Types €2,948 Confirm Dates
• Get Instant Confirmation Tuesday 4 Jun, 2024 Thursday 13 Jun, 2024 English Multiple Room Types €2,948 Confirm Dates
• Get Instant Confirmation Saturday 8 Jun, 2024 Monday 17 Jun, 2024 English Multiple Room Types €2,948 Confirm Dates
• Get Instant Confirmation Wednesday 12 Jun, 2024 Friday 21 Jun, 2024 English Multiple Room Types €2,853 Confirm Dates
• Get Instant Confirmation Saturday 22 Jun, 2024 Monday 1 Jul, 2024 English Multiple Room Types €2,853 Confirm Dates
• Get Instant Confirmation Thursday 27 Jun, 2024 Saturday 6 Jul, 2024 English Multiple Room Types €2,853 Confirm Dates
• Get Instant Confirmation Thursday 4 Jul, 2024 Saturday 13 Jul, 2024 English Multiple Room Types €2,853 Confirm Dates
• Get Instant Confirmation Saturday 6 Jul, 2024 Monday 15 Jul, 2024 English Multiple Room Types €2,853 Confirm Dates

Frequently Asked Questions

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Good to Know

• Currencies € Euro Ireland £ Pound Sterling Scotland kr Norwegian Krone Norway

As a traveller from USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa you will need an adaptor for types G, C, E, F. As a traveller from England you will need an adaptor for types C, E, F.

• These are only indications, so please visit your doctor before you travel to be 100% sure.
• Tick-borne encephalitis - Recommended for Norway. Ideally 6 months before travel.
• Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
• Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
• For any tour departing before 10th July 2024 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after 10th July 2024, a minimum payment of 25% is required to confirm your booking with Wanderful Holidays LLC. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 60 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
• Some departure dates and prices may vary and Wanderful Holidays LLC will contact you with any discrepancies before your booking is confirmed.
• The following cards are accepted for "Wanderful Holidays LLC" tours: Visa, Maestro, Mastercard, American Express or PayPal. TourRadar does NOT charge you an extra fee for using any of these payment methods.
• Insurance Unless otherwise mentioned, TourRadar does not provide travel insurance. We do however recommend purchasing it through our tried and trusted partner, World Travel Nomads .
• Accessibility Some tours are not suitable for mobility-restricted traveller, however, some operators may be able to accommodate special requests. For any enquiries, you can contact our customer support team , who are ready and waiting to help you.
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Where To See The Northern Lights in Scotland and Ireland

When it comes to the Northern Lights, Scotland and Ireland are among some of the best places to witness them outside of Scandinavia.

But where are the best places to see the Northern Lights in Scotland and Ireland?

You might even catch a glimpse (if you stay out late enough) on our West Highland Way , Great Glen Way or West of Ireland/Connemara self-guided hiking tours!

Northern Lights Scotland

When you think of the Northern Lights, Scotland should immediately come to your mind. Even though it’s not as common as in Nordic countries, it is still very possible to see the Northern Lights in Scotland.

Credit: David Gifford

• Orkney and Caithness

Credit: Pawel Kuzma

• The Moray Coast

• Galloway Forest Park

Northern Lights Ireland

• Malin Head, Donegal

• Inishowen, Donegal

• Tory Island, Donegal

• Rosinver, Leitrim

Tips for Seeing the Northern Lights, Scotland and Ireland

• Pick the right place

It can be difficult to see the Aurora Borealis when there’s too much light pollution. Try to pick a dark sky location – the Galloway Forest Park in Scotland is the only dark sky park in the UK, and only one of four in the western world.

Travelling outside of lit-up cities and towns could be the difference between seeing the Northern Lights and not.

It is possible to see the Northern Lights in southerly locations – Cork in Ireland, for example. However, the more north you are, the more chance you have of seeing the Aurora Borealis. Weak flares tend not to be visible from very far away, so if you’re north you’ll have more chance of seeing a weak flare.

• Take a look at forecasts online

Websites such as SpaceWeather or Aurora Service provide good tools for tracking the Northern Lights. These websites will give you guidance of when and where the Aurora might be at its strongest.

It’s possible to see the Northern Lights in the early night, however the best times are thought to be between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m.

Stay patient and you might just catch a glimpse of them!

• Know your camera (if you want to capture this spectacle!)

There would be nothing worse than witnessing the spectacle of the Aurora Borealis and then realising you have no idea how to capture them properly. Understand the different settings on your camera so that you can get the best picture possible.

• Be prepared

Chances are that you’ll be sitting out for a long time at night on a freezing Scottish hill waiting to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights. Bring plenty of warm layers, food and warm drinks so that you can stay warm.

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Iceland Bíldshöfði 20 110 Reykjavík +354 578 20 80 View Map

Sweden Scotland View Details

Northern Lights Tour Packages

Venture to the northern hemisphere to hunt for the aurora borealis and see this breathtaking natural phenomenon first hand. Your northern lights tour package with Nordic Visitor comes with accommodation, activities and transport included.

Witness the aurora borealis dancing above you and explore jaw-dropping landscapes in the Land of Fire and Ice.

Why choose northern lights tours in Iceland?

• Chase the lights on guided excursions from Reykjavík
• Stay at remote lodges with dark skies for aurora viewing
• Discover natural wonders like glaciers and ice caves
• Bathe in hot springs surrounded by wintry scenery

Golden Circle Classic - Winter

Golden circle, blue lagoon & northern lights, northern lights circle tour, iceland's famous ring road.

Winter Highlights & Northern Lights

Ice cave & glacier lagoon.

Hunt for the aurora borealis in Norway and admire the dramatic mountains, coastline and islands of the north.

Why go aurora-hunting in Norway?

• Marvel at the lights on an aurora coastal cruise
• Embark on a dog sledding northern lights safari
• Enjoy guided aurora excursions from Tromsø
• Stay at the extraordinary Kirkenes Snow Hotel

Northern Lights by Train and Cruise

Tromsø, flåm & the fjords, best of northern norway classic - 71° north cape, northern lights & cruise, northern lights norway classic.

Experience snowy scenery, Sami culture and winter activities in Finnish or Swedish Lapland on a northern lights adventure.

Why chase the northern lights in Lapland?

• Enjoy an enchanting aurora tour by snowmobile
• Gaze up at the northern lights from a cosy glass igloo
• Stay in a room made of ice at the legendary ICEHOTEL
• Witness the aurora dancing above Abisko National Park

Best of Lapland - Guaranteed Departure

December 18, 2024, best of rovaniemi - classic, santa claus village & dog sledding, lapland adventure - aurora sky station & icehotel.

Journey to a remote land and seek out the northern lights in Svalbard, an Arctic archipelago at the edge of the world.

Why look for the northern lights in Svalbard?

• Experience the mesmerising light of the polar night
• Visit the world’s northernmost town, Longyearbyen
• Go on thrilling dog sledding and snowmobiling tours
• See polar bears and seals in the wild

Best of Svalbard Winter - Express

Best of svalbard winter - classic, need any help so far get in touch with us.

Live chat with travel consultants

Send your queries using our contact form

Call us toll-free to ask your questions

About Your Northern Lights Vacation

Discover the magic of the aurora borealis* on an unforgettable northern lights tour. Explore beautiful destinations in the Nordics on an itinerary that local travel experts have meticulously organised for you.

When you book a northern lights tour package with Nordic Visitor, you get:

• An authentic travel experience planned by an established and trusted agency • A dedicated travel consultant to organise your tour • All relevant bookings for your chosen package • A detailed online personal itinerary • Handpicked accommodation for a relaxing stay • 24/7 emergency phone support for peace of mind

Nordic Visitor has made it easy to start planning your winter tour. Simply follow these steps:

1. Pick your favourite Nordic Visitor tour 2. Confirm your package 3. Check your confirmation email 4. Book your flights 5. Get ready for your trip

*Please note, the northern lights are a natural occurrence and sightings cannot be guaranteed.

Why choose Nordic Visitor

Book With Confidence

Secure your trip your way with Nordic Visitor. Book a tour with as little as 10% deposit. With a 20% deposit or more, you will receive our Cancellation Protection free of charge. You can also pay the full price right away to guarantee today’s exchange rate. Terms & conditions apply.

Trusted local travel experts

Established in 2002, Nordic Visitor is a highly rated tour agency in Northern Europe. Our travel experts create authentic journeys filled with the best activities and destinations. They are locally based and add their in-depth knowledge to all northern lights itineraries.

Great reviews

Nordic Visitor is dedicated to the best service quality, and this is reflected year after year when Tripadvisor awards us with their Certificate of Excellence. We also take great pride in our customer feedback: 97% of our travellers say they would recommend us to friends and family.

Stress-free experience

Our travel consultants will plan and book your trip on your behalf. You’ll receive a personalised itinerary with your accommodation and activities all arranged for you. That way you can leave all the practicalities to someone else, while you relax and look forward to your northern lights adventure.

Flexible tour options

The Nordic Visitor travel team has designed our northern lights packages to include the very best routes and experiences. However, if you’d like to add extra nights, attractions or destinations, your personal travel consultant will happily tailor your northern lights package.

You are in good hands

Should you encounter any unexpected weather or events during your tour, don’t worry. Nordic Visitor will be there for you throughout your trip. We will take care of reworking your itinerary while keeping you safe and informed. You’ll also have access to our 24/7 emergency helpline for peace of mind.

Full financial protection

With Nordic Visitor, you have peace of mind knowing your tour arrangements with us are 100% financially protected. Your payments are safeguarded as we comply with European Union laws on Package Travel regulations. This guarantees you a refund in the unlikely event of insolvency.

NORTHERN LIGHTS TOUR REVIEWS

Here’s what our wonderful customers liked about their northern lights experiences.

Larus made the whole experience of organising the holiday very enjoyable.  We are not seasoned travellers but... read more

Larus made the whole experience of organising the holiday very enjoyable.  We are not seasoned travellers but this experience has given me no doubt in using Nordic Visitor again to book a holiday in the future to another Nordic destination.

Kim Singapore

Overall an amazing experience, accommodation were excellent, transfers and check-in were smooth. Will certainly use... read more

Overall an amazing experience, accommodation were excellent, transfers and check-in were smooth. Will certainly use Nordic Visitor again for future vacations.

Northern Lights Vacation Highlights

Picture yourself in a stunning winter landscape in the northern hemisphere. You’re wrapped up warm and the world’s greatest light show is about to begin. Opt for a Nordic Visitor northern lights tour, and you could…

• Take a guided tour from Reykjavík to hunt for the northern lights in Iceland
• Explore ice caves on a guided glacier hike in Vatnajökull , home to Europe’s largest glacier
• Venture to the remote Westfjords to chase the aurora and try snowshoeing
• Go dog sledding and snowmobiling in Tromsø , Norway, or Longyearbyen , Svalbard
• Discover charming fishing villages, mountains and marine wildlife in the Lofoten Islands
• Sample Norwegian delicacies in Kirkenes , such as red king crab, Arctic char and cloudberries
• Join an unforgettable snowmobiling , dog sledding or snowshoeing aurora safari in Lapland
• Visit the Aurora Sky Station in Abisko National Park for dinner with a view of the northern lights
• Stay in an ice hotel or glass igloo, such as the ICEHOTEL , SnowCastle or SnowHotel

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT NORTHERN LIGHTS TOURS

For tips on viewing the northern lights, read on. We’ve answered the most commonly asked questions about Nordic aurora borealis tours here to help you make your dream trip a reality.

Alternatively, find out how to make a booking , have a look at our FAQs , or learn about our Book With Confidence travel plan.

1. ARE THE NORDICS SAFE TO TRAVEL TO?

Yes, the Nordics are widely regarded as safe for visitors. Actually, the Nordic nations – Iceland, Sweden, Norway, Denmark and Finland – continually rank among the top 10 safest places in the world . This is because they have low crime rates, good standards of healthcare, and excellent road safety.

2. WHAT ARE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS?

The northern lights, or aurora borealis, are a natural phenomenon. You can see them illuminating the sky when charged particles from solar flares collide with atoms in the Earth’s atmosphere, near the North Pole. This collision creates varied shapes and colours that ripple, flash or glow in the sky.

3. WHAT MONTHS CAN YOU SEE THE AURORA BOREALIS?

You have the best chance of spotting the aurora borealis in the winter months – October to April. To make out the colours of the aurora, you need dark winter nights. In the summer, daylight hours are so long that you’ll find the sky is too bright to see the glowing lights.

As it is a natural occurrence, spotting the northern lights is not guaranteed. But you can increase your chances of witnessing them by visiting the Arctic Circle in winter.

4. WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS?

As you need a dark sky to distinguish the aurora, the best time to see the northern lights is at night. The peak hours tend to be between 11 PM and 2 AM, which is why your guided tour will likely depart after 9 PM.

You could also stay at a hotel with an aurora wake-up service. The staff will let you know if the lights come out late in the night, so you don’t have to stay up waiting for them!

The best time of year to see the northern lights is winter, between October and April. This is when Nordic nights are the longest and darkest, which means you have higher chances of catching sight of the aurora.

Winter is a great time to visit the Nordics for other reasons too. Check out these guides to the top winter activities you can enjoy:

Things to do in Norway in winter

Things to do in Iceland in winter

Things to do in Lapland in winter

5. WHERE IS THE BEST PLACE TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS?

You can see the aurora borealis at high northern latitudes, especially around the Arctic Circle, as this is where solar activity is strongest. That’s why the Nordic region is the best place to see the northern lights. Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Finland and Svalbard all lie within or near the Arctic Circle.

In fact, Iceland and the northern regions of Norway, Sweden and Finland are located within the “aurora zone”. Also known as the “northern lights belt”, this is a latitudinal band between 65-72°N where high auroral frequency and intensity occurs. Visit this zone for the best chance of seeing the aurora.

Learn more about where and when to see the northern lights with these expert guides:

Best times and places to see the northern lights in Europe

Best times and places to see the northern lights in Iceland

Best times and places to see the northern lights in Norway

6. WHERE CAN YOU SEE THE AURORA BOREALIS IN SCANDINAVIA?

Norway, Sweden and Denmark are the countries that make up Scandinavia. If you want to go to Scandinavia to hunt for the aurora borealis, your best bet is to visit the northern parts of this region – Swedish Lapland and Northern Norway. It is unlikely you’ll see the aurora in Denmark.

You can witness the northern lights in the neighbouring Nordic nations of Finland and Iceland too. Although these countries aren’t technically part of Scandinavia, they have many similarities and also happen to be great places to catch the aurora borealis!

Lapland – an area covering northern Sweden and Finland – is a fantastic destination for aurora chasing. You could head to Rovaniemi and Kemi in Finnish Lapland, or Abisko National Park near Kiruna in Swedish Lapland.

Or visit Northern Norway for your aurora borealis tour. Take your pick from Norwegian destinations such as Tromsø, Svalbard, Kirkenes, the Lofoten Islands and Nordkapp (North Cape).

Alternatively, go in search of the aurora borealis in Iceland. With its wide open skies and location near the Arctic Circle, you could see the lights from anywhere in the country. For your best chances though, head away from towns with street lights so you can spot the colours more easily.

In Scandinavia you could seek out the aurora borealis in the countryside or on the coast. Plus, not only can you enjoy northern lights tours, but also bucket list activities like dog sledding, snowmobiling, and staying in an ice hotel.

Discover more reasons to visit Norway, Sweden, Denmark and Finland on our ultimate Scandinavia guide .

7. HOW TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS?

To see the aurora borealis, you need to be in a northern country on a clear, dark night, away from artificial lights. Although the aurora don’t show up on demand, these top tips will give you the best chances of witnessing them.

Firstly, make sure you visit northern regions close to the Arctic Circle. Iceland, Northern Norway, Svalbard and Lapland are the best destinations to see the northern lights in Europe.

Secondly, time your aurora borealis tour for the European winter. The long, dark nights will help you spot the colours lighting up the sky.

Thirdly, avoid light pollution found in built-up areas. This means heading into the countryside where there is less artificial light compared to towns and cities. You could spend some days out in remote areas, or opt for guided evening tours from your city base instead.

Another thing you can do for northern light viewings is check the weather and aurora forecast . Although you can’t do this very far in advance, during your trip you’ll be able to find out if the evening will be clear of cloud or rain and if solar activity will be strong.

You’d also increase your chances of seeing the aurora borealis by taking a guided tour. A local expert would accompany you and take you to all the best spots, sharing their insider knowledge with you.

Read our article on how to see the northern lights for more viewing tips.

8. HOW LONG DO THE NORTHERN LIGHTS LAST?

When the aurora borealis are treating you to their glorious light show, you might find they glow for a few minutes. The lights can show up several times in one night, or last for a couple of hours in one go.

There is no rule as to how long the aurora borealis last, of course, as they are a natural occurrence. If you see them for yourself, no doubt you’ll cherish every second of their beautiful magic.

9. HOW DO YOU PHOTOGRAPH THE AURORA BOREALIS?

The northern lights can be tricky to capture on camera, but with some preparation and the right equipment you can do it. Here are some top tips for photographing the northern lights:

• Use an SLR camera with manual focus
• Bring a tripod as you’ll need to do a long exposure shot
• Get a remote shutter release so you don’t have to touch the camera at all
• Use a slow shutter speed of between 15 and 30 seconds

For more tips on photographing the aurora, see our northern lights travel guide .

10. WHAT SHOULD YOU WEAR TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS?

It can get rather cold in the Nordic winter, especially if there’s a cool wind. The last thing you want is to feel the chill while you hunt for the aurora borealis at night. That’s why it’s important you pack the right clothing before your trip.

Many northern lights tours will provide you with thermal suits to help you stay warm while you’re out chasing the aurora. It’s also recommended that you wear warm layers underneath.

Here is an essential packing list:

• Insulated jacket and trousers (windproof and waterproof)
• Thermal wool underlayers
• Warm hat, gloves and scarf
• Warm and sturdy boots

Get more packing advice by reading our experts’ tips and tricks on dressing for northern lights viewing .

11. CAN I CHOOSE THE ARRIVAL DATE?

Yes, you can select your chosen arrival date online when reserving your Nordic Visitor tour. For northern lights packages, the arrival dates are between October and April as this is the aurora viewing season.

12. CAN I EXTEND MY TOUR BY A DAY OR TWO?

Absolutely! If you’d like to spend more time in a particular destination, you can request this when booking your tour online. Your dedicated travel consultant will get in touch to confirm the extra days with you.

If you are taking a small group tour, you can add extra nights to the start or end of your trip. This is because the group tour itself is fixed as you will be exploring with fellow visitors on a fixed itinerary.

13. WHEN SHOULD I BOOK MY FLIGHT TICKETS?

You should book your flights once your Nordic Visitor package is confirmed. We recommend you check flights beforehand to find appropriate dates and prices, but only purchase them after your travel consultant has secured your northern lights tour.

Your Nordic Visitor consultant will send you a confirmation email with all the details you need to buy suitable flights.

14. WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR MY TRIP?

The weather is somewhat unpredictable in the Nordics, no matter the time of year you visit. In winter you should always come prepared for cold temperatures, which means bringing warm clothing. Here are the essential items that we recommend you pack for your trip:

• Warm jumpers or fleeces
• Waterproof and thermal jackets
• Gloves, scarves and hats
• Insulated, waterproof boots
• Thermal underlayers
• Waterproof trousers

For more detailed information on what to pack for your Nordic tour, read our travel guides for Iceland , Norway and Lapland .

Get in touch with us to start planning your trip or for more advice on how to see the aurora borealis. Our travel experts will be delighted to arrange an unforgettable northern lights tour for you.

Our main phone number is +354 578 20 80

How about a live chat with one of our local travel experts

Blog Articles

How to see the northern lights: viewing tips, best times & places to see the northern lights in europe, best times and places to see the northern lights in iceland, a little something about the northern lights.

Whether you have a single question or a special request, we're here for you.

Northern Lights Tours & Holidays

Unpredictable and awe-inspiringly beautiful, the Northern Lights are nature’s most dazzling display.

Our Northern Lights trips take you to some of the world’s best locations for witnessing this spectacular event. Whether it’s heading to Iceland’s remote Lake Myvatn, cruising among Greenland’s glaciers, watching the lights dance across the Canadian Rockies  or travelling by dogsled into Finland’s northern wilds, Northern Lights tours with Intrepid give you the best seats in the house for one of this galaxy’s most stunning natural performances.

Our Northern Lights trips

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Northern Lights highlights

Northern lights tour reviews.

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Iceland Discovery

Six Days in Iceland

Articles of Northern Lights

Why 2024 is the best year to see the northern lights

Top 12 things to do in Iceland

What to expect on an Iceland Northern Lights tour with Dr John Mason

Why the Canadian Rockies are the best place on earth to see the Northern Lights

What it’s really like watching the Northern Lights in Iceland

7 reasons to consider a winter trip to Iceland

5 reasons Finnish Lapland should be on your bucket list

6 experiences every traveller should have in Iceland

Where can you see the Northern Lights?

Northern lights travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travellers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travellers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

When is the best time to see the Northern Lights?

The Northern Lights are at their peak from late September to late March.

Where can I see the Northern Lights?

The best places to see the Northern Lights are all located in the “Auroral zone” – an area that stretches around the Northern Hemisphere at a latitude of about 66 to 69 degrees north – including parts of:

What causes the Northern Lights?

The Northern Lights are caused by electrically charged particles from the sun colliding with elements in our atmosphere (such as nitrogen and oxygen), creating brightly coloured dancing displays of light.

Am I guaranteed to see the Northern Lights?

While Northern Light displays can never be guaranteed, as they are a natural phenomenon, our local leaders do their best to ensure you get to see nature’s greatest spectacle.

Can the Northern Lights be predicted?

Yes, the Northern Lights can be predicted to some extent.

The activity level of the Northern Lights depends on many things (of which some are predictable and some are somewhat random), including sunspots, coronal holes, solar flares and geomagnetic activity.

If you’re not an astronomer, your best bet is to check the local Aurora forecast – a KP-index number of 3 or higher means you have a good chance of seeing the Lights.

Can I see the Northern Lights with the naked eye?

Yes, you can see the Northern Lights with the naked eye. Humans can most easily see the green and white of the lights at night. A camera, however, does not have the same limitations as the human eye, so the colours may appear brighter and more brilliant in photos.

Can I photograph the Northern Lights?

Of course! There is no magic recipe for capturing the Northern Lights. Still, you’ll want to set your camera on a tripod and ensure it has a manual mode functionality, so you can adjust the aperture and shutter speed to capture the spectacular display best.

Are Intrepid trips accessible for travellers with disabilities?

We are committed to making travel widely  accessible , regardless of ability or disability. We do our best to help you see the world, regardless of physical or mental limitations. 

We are always happy to talk to travellers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

Northern Lights expected to be visible across Ireland tonight amid intense solar storm

Clear skies and geomagnetic activity should combine to provide rare viewing opportunity.

The Northern Lights are usually visible in latitudes nearer the North Pole and South Pole. Photograph: Owen Humphreys/PA

An intense solar storm and clear skies may give people a rare opportunity to see the Northern Lights across Ireland tonight.

US authorities have issued the first Severe (G4) Geomagnetic Storm Watch alert since 2005, with the possibility that mass particles from the sun will cause disruption to electricity and communication facilities.

A comparable solar storm in 2003 caused power outages in Sweden and South Africa.

The US’s National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAO) said at least five earth-directed coronal mass ejections are on their way. They emanate from a sunspot cluster which is 16 times the size of the Earth.

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Charged particles are expected to arrive as early as today and to persist through until Sunday.

The warning will last through until Sunday but will also afford people living in the northern hemisphere a rare chance to see the so-called “Northern Lights”.

Northern Lights, or aurora borealis, are caused by massive ejections of solar material by the sun which collide with the Earth’s magnetic field. The charged particles from the sun create the lights that appear in latitudes near the north and south poles.

Met Éireann has said that it may be possible to see the northern Iights in all parts of Ireland, but those living in the northern half of the country will have the best chance to see them.

The UK Met Office has issued a similar advisory which could also apply to Ireland.

“Where skies are clear and provided dark enough skies, sightings are expected to develop following the CME (coronal mass-ejections) arrival across the northern half of the UK, with a chance that aurora may become visible to all parts of the UK and similar geomagnetic latitudes,” the Met Office stated.

“Aurora activity may remain enhanced after this given the potential for further Earth-directed CMEs in the coming days.”

Met Éireann has advised people to look north and get away from light pollution in cities or towns.

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Ronan McGreevy

Ronan McGreevy is a news reporter with The Irish Times

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8 of the best tours to see the Northern Lights in 2024

Point your compass north. This year is set to coincide with some of the most vivid Northern Lights displays in more than a decade. The experts share their top tips for seeing this natural phenomenon.

Don't miss out on the headlines from Lifestyle. Followed categories will be added to My News.

It appears first as a faint green brushstroke. Then it changes shape and moves to the horizon, forming a ghostly circle, like the Earth is blowing smoke rings across an inky sky. I see the Northern Lights just once on my four-night trip to the Arctic capital of Tromsø in Norway with Expedia , but it will stay with me for a lifetime.

According to scientists, the aurora borealis will be better and brighter this year, due to an 11-year cycle known as the solar maximum, with more intense displays and sightings in places further away from the poles predicted.

Keen to witness Earth’s most luminous artwork? We’ve rounded up the best places to see the Northern Lights in 2024: 

Northern Lights cruise from Norway

WHAT: When the sky is dark and clear in Norway, the stars look as if they’re embroidered into the silk of midnight like tiny crystals. These are the ideal conditions for seeing the aurora borealis, which appear as dancing ribbons of green, pink, red and purple. Tucked directly under the Aurora Oval, an area close to the planet’s magnetic poles that offers a higher chance of seeing the Northern Lights, Norway is one of the most accessible places in the world to watch the earth's atmosphere dazzle.

WHERE: With a dramatic coastline that stretches more than 100,000km, Norway is highly compatible with cruising. There is less light pollution at sea, making it ideal for sky-gazing. Starting in Bergen and cruising north to Kirkenes and back, Hurtigruten’s 12-day Astronomy Voyage unravels the mysteries of the Arctic sky and is led by an expert in astronomy. Cruises run from September through March, from $4695 per person full-board. 

TIP: The aurora borealis can be elusive. Hurtigruten will give you another six or seven-day cruise for free if you don’t sight the Northern Lights during an itinerary of 11 days or more.

Watch the Northern Lights from a glass igloo in Finland

WHAT: Imagine the Northern Lights swirling like thought bubbles above your bed from within a glass igloo hidden deep in the Finnish wilderness. With its bucket-list winter stays, reindeer safaris, husky-sledding and rugged landscapes, Finland offers an overland experience of the Northern Lights that puts even the most magical fairy tales to shame.

WHERE: Lapland is the largest and northernmost region of Finland, extending from the Arctic Circle to borders with Sweden, Norway and Russia. Yes, this is officially Santa’s ’hood, but it’s also home to some of the most unique stays for Northern Lights viewing. See the spectacle from bed on a seven-day itinerary with Collette Travel from $6599 per person. The Northern Lights of Finland tour includes three nights in Lapland in a glass igloo and Finnish log cabin, complete with sleigh rides to breakfast. 

TIP: Stick-on hand and toe warmers are essential in the Nordic winters; plus you can stick them to your back when participating in outdoor activities.

Take a Northern Lights photography tour in Greenland

WHAT: Seeing the Northern Lights is one thing, immortalising the experience is another. Photographing the aurora borealis requires expert guidance. It makes sense, then, that there are a number of photography-themed tours that explore the aurora borealis through a lens.

WHERE: Greenland’s Scoresby Sund is the largest fjord system in the world, surrounded by jagged mountains and iceberg sculptures. With zero light pollution, it's one of the best places in the Nordic region to capture the Northern Lights. Arctic photographer and Northern Lights expert Virgil Reglioni leads a 10-day Scoresby Sund Northern Lights and Wild Landscapes Photo Tour cruise with Secret Atlas that includes guidance and a chance to see wildlife as well as this natural phenomenon. secretatlas.com

TIP: Want to travel light? Your iPhone can take excellent photos of the aurora borealis, too. Just make sure you pack a tripod.

Stay and spa under the Northern Lights in the Yukon, Canada

WHAT: While seeing the Northern Lights requires patience, it doesn’t have to be challenging or expensive. Canada’s remote and rugged Yukon, the country’s westernmost territory, has a handful of accommodation options with spa-like facilities alongside aurora borealis viewings.

WHERE: Once you’ve sighted the rainbow-like ripples of the Northern Lights, thaw out in a Finnish or infra-red sauna at the family-owned Northern Lights Resort & Spa , 20 minutes from Whitehorse in Canada’s pine-laden Yukon. Their Winter At Its Best package includes up to five nights in a glass-fronted chalet, nightly guided aurora viewings beside the bonfire, transfers, all meals, a city tour of Whitehorse, and a husky or snowmobiling experience from $2554 per person.

TIP: Forget the denim and cotton, wool clothing is best for winter, and is especially important for underlayers, such as thermals.

Stay in an ice hotel in Sweden

WHAT: Ice hotels are scattered throughout the Nordic region and are a novel way to experience the aurora borealis. Sightings in Swedish Lapland tend to occur earlier, between 9pm and 11pm, making it more ideal for families. Watch the colours dance before dozing off atop reindeer pelts on a bed made of ice.

WHERE: Kiruna, 200km north of the Arctic Circle in Sweden, is surrounded by vast wilderness and has become a hub for international space research. Its famous Icehotel was founded in 1989 and is hand-sculpted every year by a team of artists. Stay overnight and create your own ice sculpture on a small-group, 11-day Lapland Highlights Escorted tour through Finnish, Norwegian and Swedish Lapland with 50 Degrees North , from $13,182 per person. 

TIP: "For experiencing the Northern Lights in Sweden, the key is to venture far enough north where aurora activity is most prominent. Check the forecast in the area, stay up late, rug up, and be patient," says Jayde Kincaid, co-founder of 50 Degrees North.

Take an active cruise to view the Northern Lights in Iceland

WHAT: Flickering over the land of fire and ice, the aurora borealis is said to be most active in Iceland in September. One of the upsides to visiting outside the snowscape of winter is that you can pair impressive displays of the Northern Lights with nature activities that require good weather such as wildlife watching, kayaking and hiking.

WHERE: Iceland’s remote Westfjords are one of the country’s most untouched regions. The easiest way to get here is by sea. Aurora Expeditions’ Northern Lights Explorer itinerary takes in remote parts of Norway, Greenland and Iceland over 19 days, increasing your chances of seeing the Northern Lights. From $32,215.50 per person. 

TIP: Know the facts before you go. The aurora borealis was coined by Italian astronomer Galileo after the Roman goddess of dawn, Aurora, and the Greek god of the north wind, Boreas. However, the earliest depiction of the lights is in a 30,000-year-old cave painting in France.

Climb closer to the Northern Lights in Ireland

WHAT: The land of Guinness and good craic is not all green fields and roiling ocean. The Northern Lights flare in the sky in a number of dark pockets in the north of the island of Ireland, including the OM Dark Sky Park in Northern Ireland and along the Wild Atlantic Way in Ireland’s County Donegal, a 2500km driving route that winds through windswept headlands, mountains and villages.

WHERE: With its minimal light pollution, mountainous landscape and more than 1100km of coastline, County Donegal is the ideal place to climb closer to the aurora borealis. Donegal Climbing offers guided night-time hillwalking experiences that can be tailored around Northern Lights events, while at Fanad Head on the north coast, you can glamp at adults-only Portsalon Luxury Camping , with only a yurt between you and the display, from $353 for two nights.  

TIP: Make sure you research when the Northern Lights are visible in the destination before you book. In Ireland, sightings are typically in September, October, March and April.

Take a Northern Lights eco-tour in Alaska

WHAT: Witnessing the Northern Lights in Alaska is a lifelong conversation starter that requires a lengthy trip from the southern hemisphere. But it's possible to travel responsibly and still see the aurora borealis.

WHERE: Based in Alaska, Gondwana Ecotours leads environmentally friendly small-group tours outside Fairbanks in the state's rugged interior. As well as being 100 per cent carbon-neutral since 2021, for the first eight years of operation, the tour operator offset their guests’ flights. The eight-day Alaska: Northern Lights Adventure includes guided viewings, local culture, soaks in hot springs, a walk with reindeer, dog sledding and a curling lesson.

TIP: To offset your flights, visit sites such as the WWF-run Gold Standard , or subscription-based Terrapass .

Why is 2024 good for the Northern Lights?

Dr Clare Kenyon, astrophysicist and science communicator in the School of Physics at The University of Melbourne, explains that this year is on track to be one of the best to view the Northern Lights.

"'Sunspots', or dark patches that come and go on the sun, are caused by magnetic fields rising to the surface. They reach a maximum population when the sun's magnetic field is getting ready to flip. We call this time the 'solar maximum'.

"We experience this every 11 years on average and it’s expected to occur some time this year. We tend to get more instances of aurora and they can be stronger, more spectacular and visible further away from the poles."

How can I increase my chances of seeing the Northern Lights?

More coverage.

Aim to get as close to the Arctic Circle as you can. Find somewhere that has a good view towards the horizon of the north magnetic pole and look northwards.

You'll want darkness and somewhere comfortable to relax and let your eyes adjust. The amount of atmospheric interaction can change over hours and from night to night.

Visit a site like the Space Weather Prediction Center so you don’t miss out.

Originally published as 8 of the best tours to see the Northern Lights in 2024

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10 Best Places To See The Northern Lights Around The World

• The Aurora Borealis is a natural phenomenon that occurs when the sun's charged particles collide with gas particles, creating colorful lights in the sky.
• The best places to view the Northern Lights are typically in Alaska, certain parts of Canada, Norway, Finland, Greenland, Iceland, Scotland, Pennsylvania, and Sweden.
• Travelers can expect to see the Northern Lights during specific periods of the year, usually in September's last two weeks and the second to third week of March. Availability and prices for accommodations and tours may vary.

Aurora Borealis, the Northern Lights, showcases beautiful hues of green, pink, blue, and violet lights dancing in the night sky. Fortunate tourists can witness this phenomenon during specific periods of the year in the Northern Hemisphere.

Aurora Borealis is a natural phenomenon that occurs as a result of a collision of the sun’s electrically charged particles and gas particles like nitrogen and oxygen. This creates a mixture of colors in the clear sky, best viewed in areas with little to no pollution and no precipitation. This is why the best bets for viewing are typically in Alaska and certain parts of Canada, which have longer nights. Because the northern lights happen due to solar activity, travelers can expect the phenomenon to appear usually during September’s last two weeks and the second to third week of March .

Witnessing this majesty is undoubtedly on anyone’s bucket list, and these are the 10 best places to see the northern lights around the world.

Tromso, Norway

Tromsø is right in the center of the Norwegian Arctic aurora zone, making it one of the best places to witness the Aurora Borealis annually. This city in Norway is only a 3.5-hour direct flight from London, with the best northern light views from September to April.

Travelers can stay in Thon Hotel Tromsø, a mid-range hotel that offers viewing spots on the roof deck. This Norwegian city also features vibrant vibes, with famous bars and pubs on every street.

• Thon Hotel Tromso rate: $111.29 per night for 2
• Best activity, besides viewing the northern lights: Husky Tours

Related: 20 Of The Best Places To Get A Better View Of The Aurora Borealis

Fairbanks, Alaska

Tourists traveling to Alaska can head to Fairbanks , located just underneath the Auroral oval, where the light activity is concentrated. The best time to view the Aurora Borealis in Fairbanks is between August 21 and April 21 .

Travelers can check out Borealis Basecamp for a private igloo, one of the Fairbanks’ top glamping resorts. Others can check out Chena Hot Springs Resort , which includes round-trip transportation to join an Aurora viewing tour or head to Aurora Ice Museum .

• Chena Hot Springs Resort Shuttle Fee: $180 per person round-trip
• 3 days / 2 nights in Borealis Basecamp: $980 per person

Lapland, Finland

Lapland is another location within the Arctic Circle, in Finland’s northernmost part. Travelers can expect to see the Northern Lights from late August to April, about 200 times annually. One of the best bucket list experiences is watching the light show from Santa’s Hotel Aurora .

A few resorts in Lapland also host Aurora hunting expeditions, such as Kakslauttanen Artic Resort , with glass igloos, wooden rooms, and traditional log houses. The expeditions typically involve travelers watching the lights while riding a sleigh or skiing.

• Kakslauttanen Artic Resort Glass Igloos: Starts at $483.74 per night
• Santa’s Hotel Aurora: Starts at $121 per night

Other accommodations in Lapland also offer lakeside domes, cabins, and seaside glass villas with glass roofs and large windows for the best Aurora Borealis views.

Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota

Voyageurs National Park is a 218,000-acre tourist destination on the Ontario and Minnesota International Border. It’s the sole national park in Minnesota, designated by the International Dark-Sky Association in 2020 as a dark sky park. This famous national park has minimal pollution, so seeing the Aurora Borealis is possible.

Voyageurs National Park provides campsites where tourists can spend the night to catch the Northern Lights. Cantilever Hotel is also a common lodging option for travelers who prefer to sleep on a bed while watching the Aurora Borealis.

• November to April: The best time to view the Aurora Borealis
• Cantilever Hotel rate: Starts at $175 per room per night

Related: These Are The 10 Best Northern Lights Hotels In The US

Yellowknife, Canada

Yellowknife, more popular for being North America’s Aurora Capital , sits at the center of the Aurora Oval, with the best views from mid-November to early April. Tourists can also expect to catch the northern lights for up to 240 nights annually .

Besides the Aurora Borealis, travelers can also engage in winter sports in Yellowknife, such as cross-country skiing and ice fishing. Aurora Village tours are also available for viewing the northern lights, with free pick-up from hotels around the area.

• Aurora Village tour: Starts at $99.82 per person
• Aurora Village Hotel Package: Rates differ during fall and winter

Ilulissat, Greenland

Ilulissat, Greenland , has minimal light pollution, offering near-perfect Northern Lights visibility. The aurora season in this location occurs from September to early April. Travelers can combine Aurora viewing with daytime activities like Arctic caving and dog sledding.

Kangerlussuaq is another popular destination in Greenland to view the Aurora Borealis, with a chance to catch the natural phenomenon close to 300 times a year . Travelers can book northern lights tours from Albatros Arctic Circle, which also involves camping.

• Northern Lights Tour (Ilulissat) : 2-hour duration, between November to April
• Hunt for Northern Lights (Kangerlussuaq): 2 hours, February to April or September to November

Reykjavik, Iceland

From October to March, tourists traveling to Reykjavik, Iceland, can witness the Aurora Borealis in various attractions and natural parks. The best location for aurora viewing is at Öskjuhlið, with clear skies and no pollution. Reykjavik features hilly and wooded areas 200 feet above sea level for the spectacular light show.

Tourists can book packages and tours at Buubble Tours , featuring scheduled and private tours to make the most of the Iceland escapade.

• Golden Circle Iceland Tour: Around $816.08 per person
• 4-day Private tour: Starts at $8,980.90 for 2 travelers

RELATED: 10 Things To Do In Iceland In Autumn (Including Watching The Northern Lights)

Orkney, Scotland

Orkney is 10 miles from the remote northern coast of Scotland and is one of the best locations to view the Aurora Borealis in the UK. Travelers can witness the northern lights in fall and winter during cold and dark evenings.

The recommended locations in Orkney are Dingieshowe Beach and the Birsay coast. Orkney also features beautiful coastal landscapes and abundant sheep wildlife. There’s also the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

• The Kirkwall Hotel: Starts at $86.50 per room per night
• Other popular places in Orkney: Wideford Hill and Inganess Bay

Travelers can join groups on Facebook for timely updates on the Aurora Borealis, like the Orkney Aurora Group on Facebook.

Cherry Springs State Park, Pennsylvania

Cherry Springs State Park in Pennsylvania is another International Dark Sky Park , isolated from large cities like Pittsburgh and Philadelphia. Travelers can get the best Aurora Borealis photos here .

Visitors can become updated with the Aurora Borealis schedule by listening to the forecast services of The University of Alaska Fairbanks .

• September: Best month to view the Aurora Borealis
• Other phenomena that can be viewed in the park: Omega Nebula and the Milky Way

Jukkasjärvi, Sweden

Jukkasjärvi is in Northern Sweden, a small Swedish Torne River village 125 miles over the Arctic Circle . A chilly adventure calls for an overnight stay in Icehotel, where guests can enjoy ice rooms, suites, and chalets while catching the Aurora Borealis.

Travelers can also book nightly photography tours or go on excursions to Abisko’s Aurora Sky Station , located nearly 3,000 feet above sea level . The station offers the best Aurora Borealis views from November to March .

• Northern Lights Dinner at the Aurora Sky Station: $203.43 per person
• Aurora Borealis photography tour: $154.52 per adult

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Northern Lights are expected to be visible from Ireland tonight

THE NORTHERN LIGHTS are expected to be visible from Ireland tonight, according to the NOAA Space Weather Prediction Centre.

In the US, the first G4 storm warning since 2005 has been issued by NOAA. In Ireland, a major aurora borealis (northern lights) display will possibly occur tonight, and over the weekend, clear skies permitting.

Met Eireann forecaster Andrew Doran Sherlock said that those in northern counties, including Donegal, Sligo, and Mayo, are most likely to witness the phenomenon. 

He explained that aurora borealis occurs as a result of charged particles from the sun launched along Earth’s magnetic field colliding with gases in Earth’s upper atmosphere.

The colour of the Northern Lights is dependent on the type of gas particles colliding. 

The Sun just launched multiple Coronal Mass Elections (plasma with embedded magnetic field) at Earth which are combining with each other on the way over. A severe geomagnetic storm is predicted this weekend, meaning auroras are likely to be seen where 'Kp 8' is on the maps below! https://t.co/uFHhOx4dzR pic.twitter.com/ZaFHbYkwZy — Dr James O'Donoghue (@physicsJ) May 9, 2024

An eruption of solar material, known as a coronal mass ejection (CME), can result in a geomagnetic storm when it arrives at Earth. These geomagnetic storms are measured on a scale of G1 to G5 in terms of magnitude, with G5 measuring the most powerful.

The last G5 geomagnetic storm occurred in 2003, which damaged power transformers in South Africa, and resulted in power outages in Sweden. 

At least five “earth-directed” CMEs were observed and expected to arrive as early as midday, according to the Donegal Weather Channel, who run “Aurora Alerts Ireland” X account.

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This Icelandic Lagoon Has an Infinity Pool, Shuttle Service, and If You’re Lucky, Northern Lights Views

Less than 15 minutes from central Reykjavik, Sky Lagoon is a newer addition to the nation's lagoon scene.

Courtesy of Pursuit, Sky Lagoon

I flung my arms over the edge of the infinity pool and stared out into the sea ahead of me. This wasn’t supposed to be how the day went. Right this moment, I should have had my head craned up at the sky, awestruck by a colorful celestial sensation filling the sky for the first time. Instead, I had woken up on this late February day last year in Reykjavik, Iceland, to a message that my Northern Lights bus tour was canceled because of poor viewing conditions. I spent the morning getting turned away by every ferry operator, who said they weren’t running their normal tours because the aurora forecasts pointed to that night’s visibility being zilch.

So here I was instead, having woven through a maze of lava-stone canyon walls that opened up into this 230-foot geothermal pool at Sky Lagoon , in Kópavogur, less than a 15-minute cab ride from The Reykjavik Edition where I was staying in the capital’s central. 

By no means should this stunning setting be anyone’s second choice. I shook myself out of my funk of what could have been. The Northern Lights simply weren’t in the cards anywhere in the island nation that night, and it was time to bring myself back into the moment. 

Letting go of the stressful day so far, I let the warm waters embrace me, feeling smooth and gentle on my fingertips as my hands tread below the surface. It had almost been too easy to switch plans and veer here to the lagoon just outside town. I had splurged on the most luxurious of the three options: Sky. This included lagoon access, private changing facilities, and the Seven-Step Ritual .

Also offered were Pure (lagoon access and the Ritual) and Pure Lite (just a lagoon dip). Each package is also available with a transfer from the city center , making access to the site just that simple.

I spun around, taking in the scene around me. I had been to Iceland’s famed Blue Lagoon seven years prior — long before Sky Lagoon opened in 2021. Its silky blue waters and white steam were soothing on the eyes and soul, but I was overwhelmed by the crowds of people at the popular destination. (Though, the Blue Lagoon has The Retreat Spa for a more private experience.)

The mood was distinctly different during my visit to Sky Lagoon. Sure it was still packed with a healthy group of visitors, but there was a calmness about it. Somehow the dark lava stones surrounding us all created more restful energy, while the wide 180-degree view of the Kàrsnes Harbour waters and Mount Keilir in the distance, double-downed on that peacefulness. 

I wound my way through the corners of the lagoon, enjoying drinks from the in-water bar, splashing under the waterfall, and then popping out of the far side to engage in the Ritual. Focused on alternating temperatures, the process guided me from the warm lagoon into a cold dip and then to a sauna, followed by a cold mist, sky scrub, steam room, and finally a shower. I milked my time with each step, sinking into every scent and sensation that came along with it, consciously exhaling.

After that last step, I emerged feeling like I had been wrapped in a cozy cocoon and freshly released into the world again. I dipped myself back into the main lagoon, lounging around, somehow feeling lighter on my toes.

As dinnertime came, I popped into the main facility, grabbing a fireside seat at the Smakk Bar. There, I enjoyed the most hygge-inducing cheese plate with a side of smoked salmon, plus a warm bowl of the minestrone-like daily soup, which filled me both literally and figuratively.

I set down my spoon with intention. This may not have been how I pictured my solo travel day in Iceland going on this mid-winter day, but it turned out to be quite spectacular. 

Norbert von Niman/Courtesy of Pursuit, Sky Lagoon

Not quite ready to call it a night, I headed back into the lagoon for a nightcap, and to take in the after-dark experience. Bobbing lanterns now lit up the waters, creating an even more soothing hot spring setting. Slowly, I took in the visuals of every layer before me, from the sea to the sky. The watercolor chased the lava cliffs upwards to the sky so seamlessly, it was hard to see where one began and the other ended. 

There was no way my camera phone could capture the beauty, but it was worth a try. I traced the same skyward path and looked at the image on my phone — and audibly gasped. There was a tint of green in the sky in my photo. 

Just as I noticed this, two other girls behind me started pointing upward too. Could it be? On this day when there was zero chance of aurora visibility, could we have defied the odds?

Sure enough, we had struck gold. Subtle splashes of colors poked out of the sky from both sides, just enough for those of us who happened to be looking upward to notice. We squealed and pointed. We exchanged cameras and posed for photos. We immortalized the moment.

Not only were we experiencing the colorful skies we weren’t forecasted to see on this day, but we were seeing it all from the warmth of a hot spring lagoon — two iconic Icelandic experiences, merged into one.

I asked the Sky Lagoon to hail me a cab and was back to the hotel in a snap. Upon entering the lobby with a grin on my face, I caught the receptionist’s eye. The next thing I knew, I was giddily recounting to this total stranger how my day of aurora planning gone awry had led to the Sky Lagoon fulfilling my wish instead.

Taken by my enthusiasm, he handed me a full-sized Icelandic chocolate bar for no reason. Overwhelmed by that kind gesture, I finally revealed the secret I had held onto all day — it was my birthday.  

Indulging in a day of solo travel had been a gift to me, and the poor weather forecast had felt like an ominous omen for the coming year. But instead what I learned is that by letting your plans go off the rails, you just might find an even more spectacular way to take in the magic of travel. 

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Take in the breathtaking sights of Iceland with Utah tour group

By dick jensen & alan mckay tours | posted - may 6, 2024 at 11:30 a.m., (dick jensen & alan mckay tours).

Estimated read time: 4-5 minutes

There are so many reasons to add Iceland to your travel itinerary next year.

For one thing, it's covered in natural wonders. Due to its abundance of both volcanoes and glaciers, Iceland's nickname is the "Land of Ice and Fire." You can spend your days hiking, climbing, soaking or swimming, depending on where you go.

The country also has a rich and storied cultural history with the Vikings settling there in the ninth century.

And then there are the northern lights, or aurora borealis — the green, red and purple lights that swirl across the sky in the northern hemisphere. This atmospheric phenomenon is something you've likely only seen pictures of, but seeing it in person is something you'll never forget. Thanks to its geographical location, Iceland is one of the best places to do it.

"There's a reason travelers chase the elusive northern lights — ask anyone who's seen them, and they'll tell you it's a breathtaking experience," Stefanie Waldek writes for Travel + Leisure magazine .

The best time to see the northern lights is in the fall, winter or spring, but Waldek says that solar activity peaks around the fall and spring equinoxes. So, booking a trip in March or September increases your chances of catching a glimpse of the show.

When you book with Dick Jensen & Alan McKay Tours , you'll get a chance to see and experience many of these things and more — and you won't believe the price.

Here's what's on the itinerary

Dick Jensen & Alan McKay Tours' Iceland tour covers multiple different must-see stops over seven days. The trip starts with a historical walking tour of Reykjavik, where you'll see the famous Hallgrimskirkja church. Just before you head to the airport on your final day, you'll take a dip in the popular Blue Lagoon to end your trip on a high note. The Iceland tour is $2,999 per person when you travel with a companion — and it includes round-trip, nonstop airfare!

In between that first and last day, here are a few of the other activities you'll enjoy in the Land of Ice and Fire:

• Eat Icelandic rye bread, made by using geothermal heat.
• Take a beautiful boat ride through Glacier Lagoon.
• Visit the Lava Museum.
• Witness the only live lava show in the world.
• See breathtaking waterfalls, geysers and national parks.

But this is just the tip of the iceberg. To see the full itinerary, visit https://www.djamtours.com/iceland .

Dick Jensen & Alan McKay Tours makes bucket list dreams come true

To make worldwide travel affordable for as many people as possible, Dick Jensen & Alan McKay Tours has worked hard to craft exceptional travel packages that offer the biggest bang for your buck.

Here's how they save you money: The agency purchases blocks of airfare 11 months before the departure date to ensure the best deal on international airfare. Their group contracts also save people a lot of money — and since it's a family-run business with low overhead and many automated processes, they pass the savings on to you!

The Iceland tour is $2,999 per person double occupancy, including round-trip, nonstop airfare. Here's everything else that's covered with that price:

• Airport transfers
• Accommodations at the Storm Hotel and Hotel Kria
• Breakfast at the hotels
• Activities listed on the itinerary
• Private charter bus

You'll be hard-pressed to find a more value-packed offer for the price!

Refer a friend and save even more

In addition to their excellent prices, Dick Jensen & Alan McKay Tours offers a referral program to help you save even more money. For every referral from you that books with them, you get $100 and your referrals get $50 off the price as well. And you don't have to go on the trip to get your $100 reward! Visit the referrals page for more information.

Save a spot on the next available Iceland tour

Right now, the 2024 Iceland with Northern Lights tours dates include Sept. 22–28, Sept. 29 to Oct. 5 and Oct. 6–12. To see the northern lights, you'll want to book in September or October, so act fast before these spots fill up! The recent volcano eruptions won't affect any of the sites on this tour.

In the meantime, you can browse the list of other upcoming trips Dick Jensen & Alan McKay Tours offers. In addition to Iceland, the agency also offers expertly guided tours through Europe, Africa, Asia, the Americas, the Pacific, the Middle East and even Antarctica. Visit their website to view upcoming travel itineraries and plan that next great trip today!

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Rory mcilroy won’t return to pga tour policy board after ‘uncomfortable’ response from players, share this article.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The PGA Tour’s best players are at Quail Hollow Club this week for the sixth of eight $20 million signature events this season, but the early discussion so far at the 2024 Wells Fargo Championship has been focused off the course.

PGA Tour Policy Board member Webb Simpson had planned to step down from his role and have Rory McIlroy – who resigned from the board back in November – take his place. After some “complicated” and “messy” discussions, Simpson will see out his term which ends in 2025 after players voiced their concerns about McIlroy returning.

“There’s been a lot of conversations,” McIlroy said with a coy smile, noting how the discussions partly reminded him of why he left the policy board in the first place. “It got pretty complicated and pretty messy and I think with the way it happened, I think it opened up some old wounds and scar tissue from things that have happened before.”

“There was a subset of people on the board that were maybe uncomfortable with me coming back on for some reason,” he added. “I think the best course of action is if, you know, there’s some people on there that aren’t comfortable with me coming back on, then I think Webb just stays on and sees out his term, and I think he’s gotten to a place where he’s comfortable with doing that and I just sort of keep doing what I’m doing. I put my hand up to help and it was — I wouldn’t say it was rejected, it was a complicated process to get through to put me back on there. So that’s all fine, no hard feelings and we’ll all move on.”

Simpson contradicted McIlroy no less than an hour later and denied any negative sentiment towards the world No. 2’s potential return to the board.

“I think the players on the board were very supportive of him being more involved, and in those conversations I think they all see the vital role he plays not only on the PGA Tour, but he’s a DP World Tour member and they’re such an important piece in the game of golf and our Tour,” said Simpson, who also noted he didn’t get any sense that McIlroy wasn’t welcomed. “So his perspective is tremendous to us. He’s a global player, always has been, so I just think his views are important, and the other guys feel the same.”

Rory McIlroy in action during the pro am at Quail Hollow Club on May 9, 2024 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo: Andrew Redington/Getty Images)

McIlroy, who has been on the front lines for the PGA Tour in its battle with LIV Golf, joined the board in 2022 and was supposed to serve out his term until the end of this year until he abruptly resigned late last fall. McIlroy was then replaced by Jordan Spieth via a board vote. After sticking up for the Tour for the better half of two years, his decision to bail on the board didn’t sit well with his colleagues .

“He was very clear that it was too much for him. He had business dealings, he has a kid, he wants to focus on his game. Trust me, I get it. But once you quit, you’re not getting back,” Kevin Streelman, a former member of the policy board who ran against McIlroy for Player Advisory Council chairman, told Golfweek . “I wouldn’t quit on something that you were elected to by your peers. To want back in is peculiar.”

Since he left the board, McIlroy has been adamant and outspoken on why the Tour needs to get a deal done with Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund – LIV’s financial backer – in order to reunite the game.

“ Golf and the PGA Tour has been so good to me over the years, I just feel like it’s my obligation or duty to try to give back and try to set the next generation of players up like we were set up by the previous generation,” McIlroy said of his reasoning to try and rejoin the board after stepping down. “I think there’s a responsibility with every generation to try to leave the Tour, leave the place that you’re playing in a bit of a better spot than it was before. That’s what it’s about.”

Despite being stiff-armed out of consideration, McIlroy is “still optimistic” a deal will get done and believes Simpson staying on “is a really good thing.”

“I think he’s got a really balanced voice in all of this and I think he sees the bigger picture, which is great,” McIlroy explained. “My fear was if Webb stepped off and it wasn’t me that was going in his place, what could potentially happen. Yeah, I’m really happy that Webb has made that decision to stay on and serve out the rest of his term.”

As a 35-year-old from Northern Ireland, McIlroy made an interesting comparison of the current state of professional golf to the Good Friday Agreement that brought peace to Northern Ireland and Ireland in the 1990s.

“I would say I’m impatient because I think we’ve got this window of opportunity to get (a deal) done, because both sides from a business perspective I wouldn’t say need to get it done, but it makes sense,” he explained. “I sort of liken it to like when Northern Ireland went through the peace process in the ’90s and the Good Friday Agreement, neither side was happy. Catholics weren’t happy, Protestants weren’t happy, but it brought peace and then you just sort of learn to live with whatever has been negotiated, right?”

“That’s sort of how I, it’s my little I guess way of trying to think about it and trying to make both sides see that there could be a compromise here. Yeah, it’s probably not going to feel great for either side, but if it’s a place where the game of golf starts to thrive again and we can all get back together, then I think that’s ultimately a really good thing.”

The Tour’s Chief Competitions Officer Tyler Dennis wasn’t able to provide a material update on the status of the conversations between the PIF and the Tour, but did note the discussions are still ongoing and positive.

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