You must chase the Northern Lights in Iceland at least once in your life!

▲The Northern Lights in Iceland — something you must experience in your lifetime (Photo / Inspired by Iceland fan page)

By Rita

Many people arrive in Iceland singing along to Stefanie Sun’s “Green Light,” hoping to witness the legendary aurora that’s said to bring lifelong happiness. But chasing the Northern Lights isn’t really that easy—especially when you’re inside the Arctic Circle, where temperatures are freezing. Without proper gear, research, and a little luck, it’s tough to see them!CNN has compiled tips on how to view the Northern Lights in Iceland— travelers, please take note!

When visiting Iceland to see the Northern Lights, remember one key thing: choosing the right season is crucial. The aurora season runs from October to March. Once you're there, be sure to check aurora forecast websites. If you find the intensity is high, head quickly to a dark area and wait.

Next is location—here’s an introduction to various regions in Iceland:

▲Stunning Icelandic scenery (Photo / Inspired by Iceland fan page)

1. South:
Great spots to see the Northern Lights include Grotta Lighthouse (least light pollution), Perlan, Hljómskálagarður Park, and Þingvellir National Park. In the capital, Reykjavik, there are also regular bus tours that take visitors to see the auroras. For example, “Reykjavik Excursions” (Vatnsmyrarvegur 10 BSI Bus Terminal, Reykjavik 101 Iceland)

▲Iceland’s spectacular glaciers (Photo / Inspired by Iceland fan page)

2. West:
Northern Lights viewing spots here include Snaefellsjökull, Akranes, and Borgarnes. The renowned travel website Lonely Planet recently reported that the western part of Iceland is the best place to see the auroras in 2016. Aside from the lights, this region also features glaciers, mountains, lava fields, and ice caves. There are also jeep tours from Reykjavik city, such as “Arctic Adventures” (Laugavegur 11, Reykjavik Iceland)

▲The north of Iceland boasts spectacular waterfalls (Photo / Inspired by Iceland fan page)

3. North:
Northern Iceland has the most dramatic landscapes, including thundering waterfalls and hot springs. Akureyri is the main town in the north, offering rich art exhibitions, sports activities, boutique shops, and restaurants. With minimal light pollution, it’s also a great spot to see the auroras. Travelers can check out local tours like “Extreme Iceland” (Vatnagardar 12, Reykjavik IS 104 Iceland)

▲Astonishing Icelandic scenery: the east is home to many sheep (Photo / Inspired by Iceland fan page)

4. East:
Eastern Iceland is the most sparsely populated area, but it’s also home to many sheep. Jökulsárlón Lake is one of the amazing sights here and also a great place to view the Northern Lights. Local tours to consider include Icelandic Mountain Guides Day Tours (Bankastraeti 2, Reykjavik 101 Iceland).