Northern Lights Tour From Reykjavik with Photos & Hot Choc

If you’re thinking about chasing the elusive Northern Lights in Iceland, this Northern Lights Tour from Reykjavik might catch your eye. It’s a well-reviewed experience that promises a blend of natural beauty, expert guidance, and cozy comforts—all wrapped into about four hours of adventure.

What really stands out for us are the professional photographers guiding the tour, ensuring you get some memorable shots of the aurora, and the thoughtful inclusion of local Icelandic pastries and hot chocolate to warm you up. On the flip side, the tour’s success hinges heavily on weather conditions, so if a clear sky isn’t in the cards, you might not see the lights. Still, the offer of a free re-tour if the lights don’t appear is a solid reassurance.

This experience is best suited for those who want a well-organized, hands-on Northern Lights adventure with a good chance of seeing the phenomenon, and who appreciate the chance to have their photos professionally captured. It’s not ideal if you’re traveling with young kids under 8, but for most adults and older teens, it’s a solid choice.

Key Points

• High success rate: With a 98% chance of seeing the Lights, your odds are pretty good.
• Included photography: Professional guides help you get the shots, and the photos are sent to you later at no extra cost.
• Cultural touch: Visit the Aurora Reykjavik Museum to learn about the science and history behind the Lights.
• Comfort and treats: Warm up with Icelandic pastries and hot chocolate, making the cold nights a bit cozier.
• Flexible options: Unlimited mileage means guides can take you to the best spots based on weather and aurora activity.
• Weather-dependent: The Northern Lights are unpredictable; bad weather can mean a canceled tour, but re-bookings or refunds are possible.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive Into This Northern Lights Adventure

Starting with the Basics: What to Expect

This tour kicks off with a pick-up from central Reykjavik, with 20 options to choose from, making it pretty convenient no matter where you’re staying in the city. Once you’re onboard, the first stop is the Aurora Reykjavik Northern Lights Centre, a smart move to kick things off. Here, you’ll get a primer on what causes the auroras, their history, and some tips for capturing photos. It’s a nice way to set the stage before heading out into the dark.

The atmosphere at the museum is relaxed but informative. They even have a booth for camera setup, which is helpful if you’re keen on taking quality shots but unsure how to do it in low light. From there, your guide, who’s a resident photographer with over ten years of experience, takes the wheel. They’ll navigate out of the city to find the best viewing spots, avoiding light pollution and maximizing your chances of seeing the Lights dance overhead.

The Journey Out of Town

Once on the road, the landscape shifts from city lights to Icelandic wilderness. This part of the tour is where the magic really starts—facing the vast, dark skies that often showcase the aurora in all its glory. The guide’s local knowledge means they’re constantly checking the weather and aurora forecasts, so you’ll be in good hands.

They emphasize unlimited mileage, which means they’re not just stuck in one spot. If the auroras are dancing elsewhere or the sky is clearer in a different direction, your guide will pivot to the best spot available. This flexibility is a real plus—something that many other tours can’t offer.

Capturing the Moment: Photos and Memories

One of the highlights of this tour is the professional photography service. The guide, armed with high-quality equipment, helps you get the best shots against the vibrant sky. Multiple reviews mention how helpful and patient the guide is, making sure everyone gets good photos—even those who might not be familiar with night photography. The photos are sent afterward, usually within three days, which is great because you’ll have professional-quality images to remember your trip.

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Warming Up and Local Flavors

No matter how stunning the aurora is, Iceland winter nights are cold, so the inclusion of hot chocolate and Icelandic pastries adds a cozy touch. Sipping warm chocolate while gazing upward at the Lights creates a sensory moment that many travelers cherish. It’s these small comforts that turn an already special experience into something memorable.

The End of the Tour and Flexibility

After a few hours under the stars, you’ll be taken back to your accommodation in Reykjavik. Should the weather prevent a sighting, the tour company offers a free re-entry into another tour within two years, which is a sensible policy considering Iceland’s unpredictable weather.

Pricing and Value

At $162 per person, the tour offers a solid value when you consider what’s included: local guide, photography, museum visit, hot chocolate, pastries, and unlimited mileage. Plus, the chance to see the Lights with expert guidance and professional photos makes it worth the expense for most travelers wanting a stress-free, well-supported experience.

What Real Travelers Say

The reviews are mostly glowing, emphasizing the expert guide, the quality of the photos, and the cozy atmosphere. One reviewer appreciated that the guide helped set up their camera, leading to better shots. Others mention that the tour felt more personalized thanks to the small group size, which is a big plus when you’re out in the wilderness chasing a natural phenomenon.

Of course, some mention that Northern Lights sightings depend on weather and solar activity—which is true for any aurora experience. The company’s policy of free re-tours helps alleviate some of that uncertainty.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a reliable chance of seeing the Northern Lights while enjoying some local comforts and cultural insights. It’s ideal if you value professional photography and want someone experienced to help you capture the moment. It’s also a good pick for those who prefer a small, intimate group over larger bus tours, enhancing the chance to ask questions and get personalized attention.

If you’re travelling with very young children, especially under 8, this might not be the best fit due to the late-night hours and cold conditions. But for most adults, couples, or older teens, it offers a well-rounded, memorable adventure.

Final Thoughts

This Northern Lights Tour from Reykjavik hits a lot of the right notes: strong odds of seeing the auroras, expert guides, professional photos, and cozy local treats. It’s a thoughtful package that balances education, comfort, and adventure. While the success of spotting the Lights isn’t guaranteed—something inherent to all aurora tours—the flexible approach and generous re-ride policy help tip the scales in your favor.

If you’re after a well-organized, fun, and stress-free way to experience Iceland’s most magical night sky, this tour is worth considering. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate good photography and want to learn a bit about the science behind the Lights, all while staying warm and fed.

FAQs

How many pickup locations are available?
There are 20 pickup options across Reykjavik, making it convenient to find a spot close to where you’re staying.

What does the tour include?
It covers Northern Lights viewing, unlimited mileage, professional photography, a guide, hot chocolate, pastries, and entrance to the Aurora Reykjavik Museum.

Is there a guarantee I’ll see the Lights?
While the tour has a 98% chance of success, sightings depend on weather and solar activity. If you don’t see the Lights, you can take another tour within two years for free.

What should I bring?
Warm clothing is not included, so dress in layers. The tour provides winter overalls in adult sizes, but it’s good to bring your own warm gear.

How long is the tour?
Approximately 4 hours, with flexible start times depending on availability.

Can I take photos myself?
Yes, the guide will help you set up your camera, but professional photos are included and sent afterward.

Is this suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for kids under 8 due to the late hours and cold conditions.

What happens in case of bad weather?
If the weather cancels the tour, you can re-book another night free of charge or get a full refund.

How soon will I receive the photos?
They’re usually sent within three days after the tour, via email.

If you’re after a reliable, thoughtful way to chase the Northern Lights, this Reykjavik tour combines comfort, expertise, and a dash of Icelandic hospitality. Just remember to stay flexible with your expectations—nature can be unpredictable, but with the right guide, your chances of catching that magical glow are pretty good.

You can check availability for your dates here: