Visitors to Iceland may get to see an erupting volcano. Or perhaps – if they’re lucky – a glimpse of the Northern Lights. Very rarely do they get to see both at the same time.

The remarkable image above was captured this week by Hörður Finnbogason in the vicinity of the Bardarbunga, which began erupting late last month. It shows the eerie glow of the volcano alongside the spectacle of the dancing aurora borealis, divided only by the silhouette of a sightseeing 4x4 vehicle.

Jonny Cooper, founder of Off the Map Travel, which specialises in adventure holidays, said those heading to Iceland now had “a rare opportunity to witness the awesome power of the earth and sky coming together in a truly unearthly light show.”

“Although it is unclear how long the volcano will continue to flow, there is a genuine opportunity for those who visit in October to witness this incredible event,” he added. “With such a strong start to the year for the Northern Lights, the combination of the eruption and such strong aurora displays may not be seen again for a long time.”

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