Iceland's Northern Lights: A Dream Come True
Chasing the Aurora in the Land of Fire and Ice
The allure of the Northern Lights, isn't it a universal dream for us wanderlusters? In March 2025, my family and I were incredibly fortunate to witness the aurora's full splendor for two consecutive nights. The feeling was truly indescribable – a blend of ethereal magic and overwhelming awe. This trip, I must say, was an unqualified success and deeply satisfying.
We spent a total of five days in Iceland. While our travel schedule was quite demanding, leaving us no time to explore the city, the natural wonders we encountered were absolutely worth every effort. Our journey offered an abundance of unforgettable outdoor experiences.
Must-Do Adventures in Iceland
Ice Cave Trekking: A Unique Natural Phenomenon
The absolute highlight I wholeheartedly recommend is ice cave trekking. In Iceland, the melting ice each year sculpts entirely new ice caves, each one unique and never to be repeated. We trekked for about five to six hours. You might think it sounds tiring, but honestly, it was exhilarating! Visiting during the right season meant the weather wasn't excessively cold, making the experience incredibly pleasant.
Aurora Viewing from a Glass Igloo
Watching the Northern Lights from the comfort of a glass igloo was another unforgettable experience. Imagine lying in bed, gazing through a crystal-clear glass ceiling as the aurora dances above you – it's pure bliss. Our igloo was well-equipped and spotless, though we did have to tend to the wood stove to keep warm.
Soaking in the Blue Lagoon
And of course, the Blue Lagoon is an absolute must-visit. Soaking for a few hours left us feeling completely refreshed, not tired at all. The warm water is incredibly soothing. If you opt for the premium package, you'll also receive three to four types of nourishing face masks and even drinks.
A small tip based on my experience: after a night of aurora hunting in the open air, I unfortunately caught a chill, which made me feel quite unwell the next day. If you're planning a trip, make sure to bundle up thoroughly!
Budgeting for an Icelandic Adventure
However, it's important to note that Iceland's costs are quite steep. Food, car rentals, accommodation in hotels or igloos, and ice cave tours – everything is significantly more expensive than the European average. So, if you're considering a visit, be prepared for the expense; consider it an investment in a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Overall, Iceland during the aurora season is truly a paradise for passionate travelers. I still feel a sense of elation, as if I've just awakened from a beautiful dream.
Credit: Nhung Bui
