Hi all, I have never expected to see the Aurora during my trip to Iceland. However, we saw the aurora 3 nights during our 7 nights stay. Which was quite a big coincidence. Therefore I would like to share my tips on how to see the Aurora in Iceland.
There are a few things to consider on how to see the aurora in Iceland
The first one is to check vedur.is (pictured left). Here we can see the level of aurora forecast (0-9 / right panel) per day. During my time there the highest level was 4, but I also see the aurora when the level 2-3. I have read on the internet that the chance to see the aurora on level 2 it is tolerable, above the level of 5 rarely ever happens. The second one is to check the cloud coverage (the left pane), because it takes a cloudless sky to see the aurora, so you have to be in the area. Please also just go out and to sky with your own eyes. The third one I download the app Aurora Forecast (free). I downloaded on my iPhone. The benefit of this app that it gives the information of the aurora per hour, so I could estimate how many hours I need to go out hunting that night, before or after midnight.
So the check points are; the aurora forecast above level 2, make sure there are no clouds, and decide what time you must go out and hunt. I am also informed that auroral activity occurs every 4-5 days. Each wave of aurora activity for about 2-3 days. So it is advisable to stay Iceland not only for 1-4 days, as you could missed this period of aurora activity entirely. Here is the compilation of the aurora activity in addition from the one you saw in the part 1 and part 2:
Good luck for everyone who wish to see the aurora!
