Not Just the Northern Lights – Iceland's Excellent Adventures

For those travellers heading off to the Arctic region in anticipation of witnessing the famous Aurora Borealis, it is worth noting that, along with this incredible phenomenon, there is plenty more to experience. Although probably most famous for its regular hosting of the Northern Lights, Iceland is a true winter wonderland and home to a range of other exciting adventures. Here we outline just a few.

A Different View of the Lights

Have you ever considered heading on a boat to witness the Northern Lights? Iceland has an absolutely stunning coastline and seeing the lights from the vantage of the ocean is a very special experience. From the coast at Reykjavik you can simply sit back and gaze at the spectacle of the Aurora glowing over the Atlantic Ocean, while the picturesque mountains of the inland reflect the lights of the city below. The cruise takes between two and three hours but you'll be provided with warm overalls to wear to keep you comfortable. The boats have heated seating inside and, of course, the cruises are crewed by experts. It's magical evening experience, often set against a backdrop of guitar and harmonica music from the crew.

SuperJeeps and Snowmobiles

If you enjoy a little more of an adrenaline buzz, why not add snowmobiling as an activity on your holiday to experience the Northern Lights? Iceland offers the ideal landscape for this kind of thrilling activity and there are some excellent day trip excursions. A SuperJeep will take you off-roading on tracks leading up to the snowline of the Myrdalsjokull glacier, and from there you can blow the cobwebs away on a thrilling snowmobile ride that lasts about an hour. Along the way you will take in dramatic views down to the Atlantic coastline and the Eyjafjallajokull volcano. In fact, you can snowmobile right on top of the Katia Volcano. (There's no need to worry, however, as the experts have it under very close surveillance in terms of any potential eruptions.)

Volcanic Adventure

The landscape is endlessly fascinating and its dramatic features are in evidence everywhere you turn. Many people have, of course, heard of the well-known Eyjafjallajokull volcano, which erupted back in 2010, but how many can say that they have been up close and personal to such an awe-inspiring site? There are several tours that can take you as close to the crater of the volcano as authorities allow (the actual crater edge is closed to tourists) and give you an idea of the magnitude of the Earth’s power. In specially designed SuperJeeps, you can explore off-road, taking in fissures and other volcanic formations. When you get closer to the crater, there is an hour’s walk to take you the best elevation. Getting out of the vehicle and heading off on foot is an exhilarating experience and you soon get a sense of the scale of this dramatic mountain. The views, once again are unparalleled.

So, remember when you are booking your trip to experience the Northern Lights, Iceland has a lot more to offer as well. Whether you are a nature lover, adventure seeker, or both, there is something in this magical land for you.

Abigail Collins is director of Aurora Nights, a company offering a select range of once in a lifetime holidays to see the Northern Lights. For the best chance to encounter the Northern Lights, Iceland and Swedish Lapland are top destinations. Aurora Nights is part of Weekend a la Carte, a family-run company with vast knowledge based on extensive travels to the region and passionate about superb client service.