Where to Go When It’s Cloudy: Backup Plans for Your Northern Lights Trip

While the weather in Iceland can be unpredictable, overcast skies need not detract from your travel experience.

This guide provides a comprehensive list of alternative arrangements for times when cloud cover may obscure the aurora borealis. Explore a variety of other activities, from indoor attractions in the Reykjavík area to strategic itinerary adjustments, to maximize your time.

Whether you opt for a spontaneous local tour or a relaxing evening, these recommendations will help you ensure a memorable journey, regardless of the meteorological conditions.

When the Sky Closes: Understanding the Science of Clouds and Auroras

First, let's understand why the northern lights might be hidden. Auroras happen when charged particles from the sun hit gases in Earth's upper atmosphere, about 100 kilometers high. These collisions create visible light.

Clouds, however, form much lower—just 2 to 10 kilometers from the ground. Even a thin layer of clouds can completely block the view of the aurora. The lights are still active above them, but they're not visible from the surface.

So, when the forecast is overcast, the aurora is likely still happening. This means you just need to shift your focus from the sky to the ground. Iceland's unique geology, geothermal pools, and rich culture offer plenty of alternative adventures.

Why Cloudy Nights Are Inevitable (and What You Can Control)

The Weather Law in Iceland

Iceland’s climate is famously volatile—rain, snow, fog, or thick clouds can arrive unexpectedly, even on nights forecasted as clear. Cloud cover, especially low clouds, is the greatest barrier to aurora observation. Forecast pages consistently remind watchers that even a high KP index means nothing if clouds block your view.

As one traveler put it on Reddit:

“It takes a surprising amount of luck — Iceland has a lot of cloudy, wet weather, and we just never got a break in the clouds when the aurora was actually out.”

Thus, the smart traveler uses cloud risk to guide when and how far to chase—and always carries alternatives.

What You Can Control

• Timing & flexibility: Aim for multiple nights, not just one
• Forecast reading: Watch cloud layer maps, not just KP
• Destination buffer: Stay within 30–60 minutes of Reykjavík so you can bounce to clear patches
• Planning indoor anchors: Build in museum, spa, or cultural stops that don’t rely on weather

Reading the Cloudy Forecast: How to Know What’s Usable

When the forecast appears unfavorable, don’t lose hope—analyze the layers carefully:

1. Low, mid, and high clouds — Low clouds have the most significant impact on visibility. Forecast platforms like Vedur.is and VisitIceland place particular emphasis on this layer.
2. Cloud gaps and transitions — Look for “spokes” or openings in the cloud map that may develop later.
3. Cloud movement over time — Cloud coverage shifts, and dark periods can often give way to clear breaks.
4. Balancing KP index and cloud coverage — When the KP index is strong (5+), even partial clearing can reveal auroral activity along the edges.
5. Scanning alternate directions — If southern skies are obstructed, adjust your view to the north or east based on the forecast map.

These strategies can help you determine whether to stay, wait, relocate, or shift to an indoor backup plan.

Best Indoor & Weather-Resilient Alternatives in Reykjavík & Nearby

Below is a roster of excellent options to keep your trip alive—even when auroras hide behind clouds.

Museums, Galleries & Exhibits

• Perlan (Wonders of Iceland / Áróra Planetarium) — Perlan offers interactive exhibits on volcanoes, glaciers, and Earth's systems. Its Northern Lights planetarium show provides an indoor aurora experience.
• National Museum of Iceland — Explore Icelandic history from the sagas to the modern era. An excellent option for inclement weather.
• Aurora Reykjavik / Northern Lights Center — This museum is dedicated to the aurora borealis, featuring immersive visual displays and informative presentations. (Often recommended for nights with cloud cover)
• Reykjavík Art Museum (Hafnarhús, Kjarvalsstaðir, Ásmundarsafn) — Discover local and international contemporary art across its three distinct locations.
• Saga Museum / Settlement Exhibition — Learn about Viking-era life, early settlers, and the founding of Iceland through historical reenactments and exhibits.
• Whales of Iceland Exhibit — An indoor, family-oriented exhibit showcasing life-sized whale models and marine conservation stories.

Geothermal Pools & Hot Baths

Icelanders don’t abandon water when it rains—they head to geothermal pools and hot tubs. Many are partially indoor or sheltered.

• Sundhöll Reykjavíkur (Reykjavík Swimming Hall) — The oldest indoor swimming pool in the city, with hot tubs, sauna, and a partially outdoor section. An ideal place to unwind in any weather.
• Local public pools — Check Laugardalslaug, Vesturbæjarlaug, etc. Soaking in warm water while rain falls outside captures that Icelandic “cozy in chaos” vibe.
• Spa & thermal baths — While Blue Lagoon is outdoors, some include indoor facilities. Nearby spas often remain accessible even in drizzle.

Immersive Experiences & Unique Indoor Tours

• FlyOver Iceland — A flight simulation experience that takes you over glaciers, waterfalls, and arctic vistas in a cinematic immersive dome. It’s perfect for when you can’t see out the window.
• Lava Show — At Perlan or other venues, live molten lava, geology demonstrations, and science theatrics. A dramatic fallback when skies are unkind. (Perlan’s exhibitions include geology and lava features)
• Lava caves tours (e.g. Raufarhólshellir) — Explore lava tubes guided with flashlights, learn about formation and underground geology. Raufarhólshellir is near Reykjavík.
• Concerts, theatre & live music — Harpa Concert Hall hosts regular performances, and many bars host live music nights. On rainy nights, culture and music become a refuge.
• Cinema / film events — Local movie theaters or special showings of aurora time-lapses are sometimes used as backup programming.

Cozy Alternatives: Cafés, Shopping & Local Hangouts

• Reykjavík is full of charming cafés—Reykjavík Roasters, Stofan, Café Babalu, etc.—ideal for lingering with coffee, books, or people watching when skies are closed.
• Shopping streets & malls — Laugavegur as the main shopping artery; Kringlan mall offers indoor browsing and a break from weather.
• Bibliophile stops and cozy escapes — spend the evening reading Icelandic literature, exploring record stores, or simply relaxing with ambience and local conversation.

What If Cloud Cover Persists All Night—Is the Trip a Bust?

Persistent cloud cover does not necessarily negate the value of your trip. Many tours implement robust cloud-backup plans. For example, the "2-Hour Northern Lights by Boat" from Reykjavík offers an alternative experience if auroras are obscured by clouds, ensuring your evening remains engaging.

These backup provisions often include admission to cultural attractions such as theaters, museums, or lava shows. Such arrangements guarantee that participants gain significant value from their evening activities, even when direct aurora viewing is not possible due to weather conditions.

Is It Worth Waiting Overnight in a Cloudy Zone?

If the forecast indicates potential for intermittent clearings, waiting overnight in a cloudy area can be a strategic decision.

Even brief, 10-minute breaks in cloud cover can offer spectacular views of the aurora borealis. It is advisable to utilize backup indoor locations earlier in the evening while closely monitoring cloud movement predictions.

This approach allows you to remain prepared to move to an optimal viewing spot at a moment's notice. Icelandic weather forecasts frequently show trends toward clearing skies during the mid-evening, increasing the likelihood of a successful viewing.

Sample Strategy: What To Do If You Wake Up to Clouds

Even the best-laid aurora plans can meet a cloudy night in Iceland. The key is flexibility and preparation. Here’s how to turn uncertain skies into an opportunity:

1. Check the forecast immediately – Open Vedur.is or Hello Aurora for updated cloud maps, KP index, and wind direction.
2. Execute your indoor backup plan – Head to Perlan, one of Reykjavík’s museums, or a local geothermal pool for a relaxing morning or afternoon.
3. Reassess hourly – Keep an eye on forecast updates and look for thinning cloud layers or regional gaps that might open later.
4. Have two outer destinations pre-mapped – Save one northbound (e.g., Mosfellsdalur, Þingvellir) and one southbound (e.g., Kleifarvatn, Krýsuvík) route in your GPS.
5. Be ready to move quickly – Once skies start clearing, pack your essentials and head out without delay; conditions can change fast.
6. Stay near the road—but in darkness – Choose a pull-off just a few minutes from a main highway, far enough to escape city light pollution while remaining safe and accessible.

With a little patience and adaptability, even a cloudy night can still end with that unforgettable glow of the Northern Lights breaking through.

Full Evening Alternatives: Sample Overcast Night Itinerary

Practical Tips & Best Practices on Cloudy Nights

Cloudy skies don’t have to derail your Iceland adventure. With a little foresight and flexibility, you can stay prepared and make the most of every evening:

• Keep rain gear handy – Always pack waterproof clothing and camera covers, even if forecasts look mild. Iceland’s weather shifts quickly.
• Bring extra batteries – Cold and moisture drain batteries fast; keep spares close to your body to preserve warmth and charge.
• Use red-light headlamps – They preserve night vision and prevent blinding others while setting up gear or reading maps.
• Download GPS and offline maps – Remote valleys and fjords can have weak signals; offline navigation ensures you can adjust routes safely.
• Book refundable or flexible tours – Choose packages with free rescheduling or cancellation options so cloudy nights don’t impact your budget.
• Front-load indoor activities – On multi-night trips, do museums, spas, or city tours early so you have open time later in the week when the sky might clear.

Following these practices keeps your trip stress-free and adaptable, turning unpredictable Icelandic weather into part of the adventure rather than an obstacle.

Let the Experts Handle It: Private Northern Lights Tours with Lagoon Stops

If you’d rather skip the stress of chasing forecasts, studying cloud maps, and driving icy roads at night, The Iceland Tour Co. offers private Northern Lights tours that take care of everything for you.

Your personal guide tracks live weather and aurora updates, choosing the best direction for clear skies. The experience can also include a stop at one of Iceland’s world-famous geothermal lagoons — a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

You can choose between:

• Sky Lagoon – A luxurious oceanfront spa just minutes from Reykjavík, perfect for travelers who want warmth and comfort before or after their aurora chase.
• Hvammsvík Hot Springs – Set deep in a quiet fjord, far from city lights, this location gives you one of the best chances to see the aurora reflected across the still water.
• Laugarás Lagoon – Iceland’s newest geothermal retreat near the Golden Circle, offering wide dark skies and incredible visibility for the Northern Lights.

A private guided tour means no complicated planning, no driving stress — just pure Icelandic magic under the northern sky. Whether it’s your first aurora trip or a return visit, The Iceland Tour Co. ensures you enjoy it in comfort, style, and serenity.

FAQs

What can I do if it’s cloudy during my Northern Lights trip?

If clouds roll in, don’t worry—Visit Iceland still offers great options. Take a Northern Lights boat tour from Reykjavík harbor or head north toward clearer skies. Even if you can’t see the aurora with the naked eye, you’ll enjoy dramatic landscapes and still have the best chances once conditions improve.

Are there other activities worth trying during cloudy nights?

Absolutely. Explore Þingvellir National Park, Iceland’s first national park, or taste local food in the middle of the country. Many travelers prefer hot springs, spas, or cozy cafés when strong winds make aurora chasing tricky.

When is the best time to reschedule a Northern Lights tour?

Autumn through peak season in winter is the perfect time. Book in advance and stay flexible to catch breaks between storms for your best chances.

Can I still take photos when it’s cloudy?

Of course! Capture incredible shots of stars, clouds glowing green and purple, or reflections on water. Use a wide lens, log your photos, and comment on your experience—the last thing you’ll regret is missing Iceland’s magic.

Conclusion

Clouds may block the aurora—but they don’t block a good night in Iceland. With intelligent forecasting, strategic pivots, and rich indoor or alternative experiences, you can turn potential disappointment into one of your trip’s most memorable nights.

Museums, geothermal pools, lava caves, immersive shows, cozy cafés, and backup tours all become anchors when the sky closes in.

The true skill in chasing Northern Lights lies in how well you adapt—and in Iceland, that adaptability makes the trip unforgettable, even when the lights hide.