23 Breathtaking Places to Catch the Northern Lights on a Budget

Destination 22: Þórsmörk, Iceland

Most Northern Lights seekers in Iceland head to Reykjavik or Thingvellir National Park, but those in the know go to Þórsmörk (Thórsmörk)—a remote valley hidden between glaciers, volcanic mountains, and black-sand deserts. If you want a budget-friendly, off-the-grid aurora adventure, this highland paradise is one of Iceland’s most spectacular places to watch the Northern Lights. The best part? You can camp for free or stay in low-cost mountain huts, meaning you don’t have to spend a fortune on hotels or tours. With zero light pollution and 360-degree unobstructed views, Þórsmörk offers some of the clearest aurora sightings in Iceland. And because it’s so isolated, you’ll likely have the Northern Lights all to yourself, rather than competing with tourist crowds.