5-Days Land of Northern Lights Tour from Reykjavík

If you’re dreaming of Iceland’s wild beauty—glaciers, waterfalls, volcanic fields, and the elusive Northern Lights—this 5-day tour from Reykjavík might be just the adventure you’re after. Designed for travelers who want a well-rounded experience without the hassle of planning every detail, it promises a mix of scenic highlights, cultural insights, and the thrill of hunting for the Aurora Borealis.

What really draws us to this trip are the knowledgeable guides and carefully curated stops—they turn a sightseeing tour into a memorable journey. Plus, the inclusion of the Blue Lagoon, a highlight for many, and the chance to see the Northern Lights on two different nights add extra magic. On the flip side, a potential downside is the non-refundable policy, so it’s best suited for those confident in their travel plans. If you love exploring diverse landscapes with a group that’s friendly and fun, this tour could be a great fit.

Key Points

• Comprehensive tour covering major Icelandic sights, ideal for first-timers.
• Northern Lights hunt over two evenings with expert guidance.
• Includes four nights’ accommodation with breakfast, offering good value.
• Knowledgeable guides who enhance the experience with stories and local insights.
• Comfortable transportation with WiFi, making the journey easier and more enjoyable.
• Optional glacier hike for adventurous souls wanting a closer look at Iceland’s icy wonderland, with safety and guidance provided.

An Honest Look at the 5-Day Land of Northern Lights Tour

This tour offers a balanced combination of Iceland’s iconic sights and the chance to experience the country’s natural phenomena, especially the Northern Lights. It’s perfect for travelers who want a structured itinerary that hits all the highlights without the stress of self-driving or organizing each stop.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1: Reykjavik Arrival and Exploration
The tour kicks off in Iceland’s capital. You’ll get four hours to settle into your hotel or explore on your own. The hotel’s central location makes wandering around the city’s cozy streets and colorful architecture quite enjoyable. Potential travelers should note that the initial day is flexible, giving you a chance to get acclimated or simply relax after your journey.

Day 2: Reykjavik and Reykjanes Peninsula + Blue Lagoon
In the morning, your guide will take you on a quick tour of Reykjavik’s highlights—think of it as an intro to Iceland’s vibrant capital. Next, you’ll head to the Reykjanes Peninsula, where volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and dramatic coastlines await. You’ll stand near a lighthouse, see bubbling mud pools, and even cross the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates—an experience that’s pretty unique.

The highlight of this day is a visit to the Blue Lagoon, one of Iceland’s most popular attractions. You get admission and a towel included, so you can soak in the warm geothermal waters surrounded by lava fields. It’s a perfect way to unwind after travel and start your Iceland adventure with a memorable splash.

Day 3: South Coast Wonders and Glacier Optional Walk
This day is packed with waterfalls and volcanic scenery. You’ll stop at Seljalandsfoss, where you can walk behind the curtain of water—an unforgettable photo op. Then, a visit to Skogar Museum offers a glance into Icelandic history through well-preserved farm artifacts and turf houses.

Next, Skogafoss impresses with its 60-meter drop, and you’ll have the option to explore Solheimajokull Glacier on a guided, non-technical glacier walk. This is great for those who want to get up close to Iceland’s icy landscapes, though it requires warm clothing and hiking boots. The glacier walk isn’t included in the price and requires booking separately, but many reviews praise this activity as a highlight.

In the afternoon, you’ll explore Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, with its striking basalt columns, caves, and massive waves—an eerie, beautiful landscape. A quick stop in Vík gives you a chance for photos and to soak in the rugged coastline.

Day 4: Golden Circle and Geothermal Greenhouses
This day covers the famous Golden Circle route with highlights like Geysir, the original hot spring now dormant but still erupting Strokkur regularly, and Gullfoss, the stunning double cascade waterfall. You’ll enjoy sweeping views of Iceland’s volcanic terrain.

A visit to Þingvellir National Park is like stepping into history and geology—here, the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are visibly pulling apart, and the site is UNESCO-listed. It’s also the birthplace of Iceland’s ancient parliament, making it a natural choice for those curious about the country’s roots.

The stop at Fridheimar introduces you to Iceland’s horse culture and features a geothermal greenhouse, giving you a taste of local agriculture and traditions.

Day 5: Reykjavik Departure or Extra Exploration
The tour wraps up with some free time in Reykjavík—perfect for last-minute shopping or wandering familiar streets before heading home.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The Guides and Group Experience

Many reviews praise the guides for their enthusiasm, knowledge, and ability to keep the group safe and engaged—whether it’s sharing stories, explaining the science of the Northern Lights, or giving photography tips. Simone and other guides are clearly passionate about Iceland, making the experience more personal and informative.

The Northern Lights Program

Hunting for the Aurora is a major draw. The tour includes two dedicated evenings with lectures, presentations, and guided searches. Travelers note that weather can impact sightings, as one review mentions, “seeing the northern lights is a hit and miss thing,” but the effort and expertise put into finding them are appreciated. Many reviewers have fond memories of watching the lights dance across the sky, often describing the experience as unforgettable.

Accommodation and Comfort

With four nights of stay, including breakfast, and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle equipped with WiFi, the tour provides comfort along with convenience. While some mention the hotel rooms are basic, they are well-located, and most find them suitable for resting after long days of sightseeing.

Value for Money

At roughly $1,249.57 per person, this tour offers a broad scope of Icelandic sights and activities. Many reviews highlight the value, especially considering that it combines several major attractions, cultural insights, and the chance to see the Northern Lights, which isn’t guaranteed but adds a magical bonus.

Optional Activities

The glacier hike is a notable optional extra. While not included in the base price, many travelers who choose to add it say it’s worth the extra effort—getting up close to the ice formations and learning about glaciers firsthand. It’s a safe and guided activity suitable for ages 10 and up, provided you bring the right gear.

Practical Tips for Potential Travelers

• Book in advance: The tour is popular, often booked 104 days ahead, so plan early to secure your spot.
• Weather considerations: Iceland’s winter weather can be unpredictable, impacting activities like the glacier hike or Aurora sightings. Flexibility and patience are key.
• What to bring: Warm, waterproof clothing, sturdy hiking boots, and a camera are essential. The tour supplies some gear, but layering is always smart.
• Non-refundable policy: Be sure of your travel dates, as cancellations aren’t refunded or changed.
• Ideal for: Those who want a well-organized, guided experience with a good mix of natural and cultural highlights. It’s particularly suited for first-time visitors, nature lovers, and anyone eager to see the Northern Lights without the hassle of planning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While the tour isn’t explicitly marketed as family-specific, it’s generally suitable for children aged 10 and up, especially for active participants like glacier walks. Always check individual activity requirements, but many reviews mention traveling with teenagers.

How likely am I to see the Northern Lights?
The tour includes two nights dedicated to Aurora hunting, with guides explaining the science and helping search for the Lights. However, since the Aurora is a natural phenomenon, sightings depend on weather and solar activity. Many travelers do see them, but it’s not guaranteed.

Are the accommodations comfortable?
Most reviewers find the hotels to be basic but well-located and comfortable enough for resting after busy days. The focus is on the experience, so don’t expect luxury, but cleanliness and convenience are generally good.

What’s included in the price?
The tour price covers airport transfers, four nights’ accommodation with breakfast, guided transportation, Blue Lagoon admission, and the Aurora Borealis program. Meals (besides breakfast) and optional activities like glacier hikes cost extra.

Can I book additional activities?
Yes, the glacier hike is an optional add-on, usually booked separately. You’ll need to bring suitable clothing and shoes if you choose to do it.

How physically demanding is this tour?
Most activities are accessible to most travelers, though the glacier walk is moderate in difficulty. Walking around Iceland’s outdoor sites involves some standing and walking on uneven terrain. Dress warmly!

What is the group size?
The tour accommodates up to 40 travelers, promoting a friendly group atmosphere without being overcrowded.

What should I pack?
Warm layers, waterproof gear, hiking boots, a camera, and perhaps a small backpack for day trips. The tour provides some winter equipment, like ice grips and flashlights.

Final Thoughts

This 5-day Land of Northern Lights tour from Reykjavík offers a solid balance of Iceland’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and the chance to witness the Aurora. The guides are often praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm, which makes the experience more engaging and personal. The itinerary is thoughtfully designed to maximize your time and introduce you to key sights like waterfalls, geysers, glaciers, and volcanic landscapes, all while giving you the comfort of well-located accommodations and modern transportation.

If your goal is to see the Northern Lights, this trip provides two dedicated opportunities to catch a glimpse of the sky’s magic, guided by experts who know where to look. The optional glacier hike adds a memorable adventure for those who want to explore Iceland’s icy terrain up close. Despite some basic hotel rooms and a non-refundable policy, most travelers find the overall value and experience to be well worth the cost.

Ideal for first-time visitors, nature lovers, and explorers eager to cover a lot of ground in a short time, this tour packs a punch and leaves plenty of room for awe and discovery. Just remember to pack warmly and stay flexible—sometimes, nature throws its own surprises, and that’s part of what makes Iceland so special.

Ready to experience Iceland’s wild landscapes, welcoming culture, and shimmering Northern Lights? This tour might just be your perfect introduction to the Land of Fire and Ice.