From Reykjavik: Northern Lights Guided Tour with Photos

If you’re planning a trip to Iceland and dreaming of catching the breathtaking Aurora Borealis, a guided tour from Reykjavik could be a good option. This specific experience promises not only to chase the lights but also to give you plenty of chances to photograph them, all while providing some cozy comforts along the way.

What we particularly love about this tour is the focus on expert guidance—your guides seem genuinely passionate and knowledgeable, which makes the whole experience more engaging. Plus, the inclusion of photo opportunities and warm blankets makes it feel like a thoughtfully curated adventure. On the flip side, a potential challenge is that the Northern Lights are notoriously unpredictable; no matter how good the tour, you’re still at the mercy of the weather and solar activity.

This tour works best if you’re flexible, eager to learn about the science of the lights, and want a hassle-free way to see them without worrying about transport or finding the best viewing spots yourself. If you’re after a relaxed, informative, and cozy night under the stars, this could be a solid pick.

Key Points

Guided expertise makes a real difference in understanding the Aurora Borealis.
Photo inclusion means you walk away with memories you can keep and share.
Weather-dependent timing means there’s a chance of cancellation or rescheduling.
Comfort features like hot chocolate and blankets help make the cold nights more bearable.
Small to mid-sized groups keep the experience intimate but social.
Flexibility in booking allows you to reserve now and pay later, giving peace of mind.
The emphasis on science and tracking shows this isn’t a generic tour—your guides are invested in helping you see the lights.
The experience is especially suited for those who appreciate knowledge, comfort, and flexibility in their adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Booking and Price Value

At $95 per person, this tour is priced in line with many other Northern Lights excursions in Reykjavik. Considering what’s included—pickup, hot drinks, warm blankets, and professional photos—it offers decent value, especially for those eager to maximize their chances of witnessing the lights without the hassle of self-organizing transportation or scouting locations.

The ability to reserve now and pay later is a bonus, providing flexibility if your Iceland plans are still fluid. Keep in mind, the tour lasts about 5 hours, which might seem long but is necessary because chasing the lights is often a waiting game. The timing depends on availability, so it’s best to check the schedule during your trip.

The Pickup and Transportation

The meeting points are conveniently located at Tour Bus Stops in downtown Reykjavik or at select hotels nearby. The guide will arrive within a 45-minute window, so patience is key—this isn’t a rushed affair. The transportation is described as comfortable and modern, making the drive out of the city to areas with less light pollution manageable, especially in winter conditions.

The Route and Locations

Since the end location isn’t predetermined, the guide chooses the spots based on cloud coverage and aurora activity. This adaptability is essential because the Northern Lights are highly elusive—they can appear suddenly, or sometimes seem shy. The tour might stop at multiple locations, and if conditions are promising at one, they’ll stay put.

Several reviews mention the guides’ local knowledge and persistence. One guest said, “Jack didn’t stop hunting the Northern Lights until we found them,” highlighting the dedication of the team. The location changes are designed to increase your chances of a sighting, but it also means you’re in for a bit of a waiting game—patience is a virtue here.

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What Happens During the Tour

Once out of the city, you’re in Iceland’s dark, open landscape, perfect for stargazing and, hopefully, witnessing the dancing lights. The guides will set up camera gear to take photos of your group with the Aurora, ensuring everyone gets a shot. They are clearly experienced in capturing these moments, which is reassuring given how fleeting and unpredictable the Aurora can be.

You’re encouraged to curl up in blankets while sipping hot chocolate, tea, or coffee, which helps make the cold nights more enjoyable. The experience isn’t just about the lights; it’s about savoring the moment in a cozy manner, even when the weather isn’t ideal.

The Science and Guidance

One standout point from reviews is how guides like Christian are not only enthusiastic but also extremely knowledgeable about the Aurora’s science. One reviewer commented, “His detailed explanation of how the Aurora works was absolutely fascinating,” showing that this isn’t just a touristy photo op but an educational experience.

The team also operates a website and uses multiple sources to track aurora activity, which shows a real commitment to giving you the best shot at witnessing the lights. This sense of being part of an active scientific hunt adds a layer of excitement.

The Photography and Memories

All guest photos are provided via Dropbox within 7 days. Many reviews highlight how guides like Kamila and Christian take fantastic pictures, which is a real perk. Since the Aurora is notoriously difficult to photograph, having an experienced guide handle your group’s camera gear ensures you’re more likely to get decent shots—especially if you’re not familiar with night photography.

The Weather Factor

Since the tour depends heavily on weather conditions, cancellations are possible if the forecast looks unfavorable. Guides make the call by 5 PM on the day of the tour, and if canceled, you’ll be notified and can reschedule or get a refund. It’s worth booking on the first night of your trip, as some guests noted that weather can change rapidly, and this gives you the chance to try again on a better night.

Group Size and Atmosphere

Tour groups are max 30-40 people, which strikes a balance between having enough company and maintaining an intimate vibe. Several reviews mention how guides like Ania and Christian make everyone feel well cared for, answering questions and ensuring everyone gets to take photos.

Additional Considerations

Warm clothing, winter boots, and water are not included, so come prepared. The tour emphasizes wearing layers and hats and gloves, which is vital for staying comfortable during long waits. Remember, the tour is not suitable for those with heart problems due to the cold and activity level.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience is ideal for travelers who want an educational and comfortable way to see the Northern Lights. If you’re curious about the science behind the phenomenon and prefer guided logistics to maximize your chances, this tour checks those boxes. It’s especially good for those who don’t want to worry about driving, navigation, or unpredictability—your guides handle all of that.

It’s also suited for travelers who enjoy a social atmosphere, as groups are moderate-sized, and the guides are praised for their enthusiasm and friendliness. The inclusion of photos and hot drinks makes it a cozy experience, perfect for winter evenings.

However, if your main priority is guaranteed Aurora sightings, it’s important to remember that nature can be unpredictable, no matter how dedicated the guides are. Flexibility and patience are your best friends here.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for families? The tour isn’t explicitly marketed as family-friendly, but older children who are comfortable in cold weather and interested in science and photography should enjoy it.

What should I bring? You’ll want to pack warm clothing, including hat, gloves, and hiking shoes. Since water and boots are not included, be sure to come prepared.

Can I book this tour last-minute? Yes, as long as there’s availability, but it’s best to book early in your trip to allow for rescheduling if the weather doesn’t cooperate.

What happens if I don’t see the Northern Lights? The guides do everything possible to locate the aurora, but since it’s a natural phenomenon, sightings can’t be guaranteed. Photos taken during the tour are provided regardless, and you might be offered a chance to reschedule.

Are the photos of high quality? Guides take professional-looking photos and will share them via Dropbox within a week, so you’ll have great memories even if the lights don’t cooperate.

How long does the tour last? Expect about 5 hours, including pickup, travel, waiting, and photography.

Is transportation comfortable? Yes, the transportation is described as modern and comfortable.

What if the weather cancels the tour? You’ll be notified by 5 PM and can either reschedule or receive a full refund, making it a low-risk option.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this Northern Lights tour offers a well-rounded experience grounded in expert guidance, good value, and comfort. If you’re someone who enjoys a mix of education, patience, and scenic nights under Iceland’s starry sky, you’ll likely find it worth your while. The combination of local guides’ knowledge, photography services, and warm comforts makes this a compelling option.

Of course, it’s important to remember that Aurora sightings are never guaranteed—but with the right attitude and some luck, this tour could give you some of the most stunning memories of your Iceland trip.

This experience suits travelers who want a stress-free, insightful, and cozy way to chase the Northern Lights. If you’re prepared for the unpredictable nature of the phenomenon, you’ll probably come away feeling like you’ve been part of something truly special.

You can check availability for your dates here: