Private Northern Lights Tour

If you’re dreaming of catching the elusive Northern Lights, this Private Northern Lights Tour offered by Your Friend In Reykjavik might just be what you’re looking for. We haven’t done it ourselves, but looking at what it promises, it seems like a thoughtfully curated way to chase one of nature’s most magical displays without the crowds.

What really catches our eye are the private setting and luxury vehicle, which means you get a tailored experience with fewer fellow travelers. Plus, the inclusion of hot chocolate and Icelandic pastries sounds like a cozy touch, perfect after standing outside in the cold. The only caveat? As with all Aurora viewing, there’s no 100% guarantee – you’re relying on weather and solar activity, so it’s a bit of a gamble, but that’s part of the adventure.

This tour suits those who appreciate comfort and personalized attention while hunting for the Aurora. If you prefer small groups or private outings rather than large bus tours, you’ll likely find this option appealing. It’s especially great for travelers who want the flexibility to explore different spots and enjoy a relaxed, intimate atmosphere.

Key Points

• Comfort & Privacy: The tour is private, reducing the number of fellow travelers and increasing the chance to enjoy the experience at your own pace.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable guides will find the best spots based on weather and forecasts, boosting your chances of seeing the lights.
• Cozy Touches: Hot chocolate and Icelandic pastries help keep you warm and add a local flavor to the experience.
• Reliable Transportation: A very comfortable luxury vehicle ensures you’re warm, cozy, and ready for the hunt.
• Flexible & Cancelable: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind in case plans change.
• Price & Value: At $1,247 for a group up to 8, it’s a premium experience, but for those seeking exclusivity and comfort, it could be worth it.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What You Can Expect from This Northern Lights Tour

This tour is designed to give you a personalized, relaxed way to see the Aurora without the hustle of larger group tours. The experience lasts about 5 hours, and you’ll be picked up from your hotel, usually in the late evening, depending on availability.

The Pickup & Transportation

Your guide will come to your hotel in a luxury vehicle, ensuring you’re comfortable even when waiting outside in the cold. The vehicle’s quality is a highlight—think spacious, warm, and well-maintained, perfect for a long night of Aurora hunting.

The Journey & Locations

Once on the road, your guide will assess the Aurora forecast and weather conditions to pick the best location for seeing the Northern Lights. This means avoiding light pollution and choosing scenic, open areas—possibly in Iceland’s stunning countryside or quiet outskirts.

You won’t be stuck in one spot; your guide will move around if needed, aiming to optimize your chances of catching the lights. The tour is flexible, so if the weather favors a particular spot, you might find yourselves there longer.

The Experience & Atmosphere

While waiting for the lights to appear, you’ll be served hot chocolate and Icelandic pastries—small comforts that make a cold night more enjoyable. The focus here is on creating a cozy, intimate experience, away from crowds, where you can relax and soak in the natural beauty.

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The Likelihood of Seeing the Lights

While seeing the Aurora is never guaranteed—since it depends on solar activity and clear skies—the reviews show that this tour often delivers quickly. One traveler even said, “We saw the lights within the first hour,” which is a promising sign. The expertise of the guides in reading the forecast can really work in your favor.

Duration & Flexibility

The five-hour window provides enough time to chase the lights across different spots, and the flexible cancellation policy adds a layer of reassurance. If the weather isn’t cooperating, you can cancel with full refund up to 24 hours before.

Additional Considerations

You’ll want to dress warmly—think layers, gloves, scarves, and solid shoes—since you’ll be outside for periods of time. Bringing a camera is recommended to capture the moment, and tips are appreciated but not mandatory.

How Does This Tour Compare in Value?

At $1,247, this is a pricier option — especially for a group of up to eight. But when you consider the private setting, luxury transportation, personalized attention, and cozy refreshments, it offers a level of comfort that many group tours can’t match. If you’re after a stress-free, intimate experience and are willing to pay for convenience, it may well be worth it.

However, if your main goal is simply to see the lights at all costs, and you’re more budget-conscious, some of the group tours or other options might be more economical. But keep in mind, many reviews suggest that the guides’ ability to find the best spots significantly enhances your chances of a good sighting.

The Experience for Different Travelers

This tour is best suited for travelers who value comfort and privacy and prefer a tailored experience over large group excursions. If you’re traveling with a small group, a partner, or even solo and want to avoid crowded buses, this could be your ideal choice. It’s also suitable for those who enjoy a cozy, relaxed evening with local treats and warm drinks.

If you’re someone who’s really eager to photograph the Northern Lights, the flexible stops and fewer people can improve your chances of capturing that perfect shot. But remember, since it’s a natural phenomenon, be prepared for the possibility that the lights may not appear, no matter how well the guides do their job.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While the tour is private and flexible, it’s designed for an adult audience who can appreciate standing outside in cold weather. If you’re traveling with young children, consider their tolerance for cold and outdoor conditions.

What should I wear for the tour?
Dress warmly in weather-appropriate clothing, including layers, gloves, a scarf, and solid shoes. Being comfortable and warm makes the experience much more enjoyable.

Can I cancel the tour if the weather looks poor?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which is handy if the forecast predicts cloudy skies or low Aurora activity.

What is included in the price?
The price covers an expert guide, a luxury vehicle, hot chocolate and Icelandic pastries, and WiFi. Meals and museum visits are not included.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, with pickup times depending on availability and your hotel location.

Will I see the Northern Lights?
While the tour aims to maximize your chances, sightings depend on weather and solar activity. Many travelers do see the lights quickly, but it’s not guaranteed.

Is the guide multilingual?
Yes, guides speak English, French, German, Italian, and Spanish, making it accessible for various travelers.

Final Thoughts

This Private Northern Lights Tour offers a calm, personalized way to witness one of nature’s most enchanting phenomena. The blend of comfort, expert guidance, and intimate surroundings makes it stand out among other options. It’s a particularly good fit if you’re after a relaxed, flexible experience with a good chance of seeing the Aurora, and you’re happy to pay a premium for that.

If you love the idea of avoiding busy crowds, value cozy refreshments, and want to maximize your chances with experienced guides, this tour could be a memorable highlight of your Iceland trip. Just remember, patience and luck play a role, so approach it with an open mind and a warm coat.

Hope this helps you decide whether this tour fits your style! Iceland’s Northern Lights are a sight to cherish, and with the right setup, you might just catch the magic.

You can check availability for your dates here: