Between September and April, people in Iceland are treated to a magnificent natural display: the phenomenon of aurora borealis, or what we commonly call the Northern Lights.

The Aurora Borealis takes its name from the Roman goddess of dawn, Aurora, and the Greek word for the north wind, Boreas. From September to April, Iceland is a hotspot for this magnificent light show.

The Aurora Borealis, more commonly referred to as the Northern Lights, is a natural phenomenon created when solar wind particles interact with the Earth’s magnetic field. This excites the particles that release energy, causing peculiar luminous green and purple streaks across the skies.

On clear winter nights, sightseeing trips are organized around this spectacular – though fickle – natural phenomenon. The ideal location for sightings varies and excursion leaders are skilled in “hunting” the lights, finding locations where conditions There are no guarantees that you will see the Northern Lights during your stay, but in most cases, sightings are greatly improved outside populated areas, especially away from the light pollution of the capital. A number of hotels in the countryside offer a special Northern Lights wake-up service.

Source: Azerbaijan State News Agency