Northern Lights Minibus Tour with Hot Cocoa, Blankets & Photos

If you’re dreaming of catching the elusive Aurora Borealis during your Iceland trip, a guided minibus tour from Reykjavik is a popular way to try. While there’s no guarantee you’ll see the lights, this tour offers a good shot with expert guides choosing spots based on the latest weather and cloud cover data. It’s a cozy, no-fuss way to venture out of the city, and for many, the experience is still worth it.

What we really like about this tour is how well-organized it seems—pickups from numerous hotels make it easy, and the guides’ knowledge about the best viewing spots really shows. Plus, the hot cocoa, blankets, and photo options add a comfortable, personal touch to an outdoor adventure. On the flip side, the nature of Northern Lights tours is unpredictable; sometimes, clouds or moonlight spoil the show. That said, this tour’s flexible policy of offering a free second attempt if you don’t see the lights initially can ease the disappointment.

This experience is best suited for travelers who are okay with the possibility of cold, late-night outings and want an approachable, guided way to try their luck at witnessing one of nature’s greatest spectacles. If you’re prepared for some patience and a bit of weather variation, it can be a memorable part of your Iceland trip.

Key Points

• Expert guides increase your chances of spotting the Aurora Borealis by choosing prime locations.
• Comfort amenities like blankets, hot cocoa, and photo opportunities make the outing more enjoyable despite the cold.
• Flexible booking and a policy of offering a free second tour if no lights are seen can provide peace of mind.
• Weather conditions heavily influence the experience—cloudy or bright moon nights can limit visibility.
• Small group size (max of 28 travelers) helps keep the experience intimate and manageable.
• Timing varies but generally lasts about 4 hours, often booked at least a month in advance, reflecting high interest.

What to Expect During the Tour

The Pickup and Journey Out of Reykjavik

The adventure begins with a pickup from your Reykjavik hotel or a designated spot, which is a real convenience. This tour is operated by Arctic Adventures, and many travelers appreciated the smooth logistics, as one reviewer noted: “Our guide knew exactly where to go for the best viewing. We got amazing pics and then had some hot chocolate!” Leaving the city behind means escaping light pollution, which is essential for seeing the Northern Lights clearly.

The drive into the countryside is usually comfortable, with most travelers having access to free Wi-Fi onboard to upload or share their photos while en route. The group size is capped at 28, making the trip feel less crowded and more personal.

Finding the Best Viewing Spot

The crux of this tour is the guide’s ability to locate the best spot based on current conditions. They look for clear skies, high KP index, and minimal cloud cover—factors that increase your chances of witnessing the lights. One review described it as “well organized and knowledgeable,” which is a good sign that guides are serious about maximizing your viewing odds.

Sometimes, this means driving to remote locations or national parks, away from any lingering city lights. However, not every location guarantees perfect conditions, and some travelers have been disappointed when the first stop turns out to be unpromising, like a car park on the side of the motorway, as one review pointed out. Still, guides often move around to find a better spot if the weather permits.

The Main Event: Aurora Viewing

Once in the ideal location, you’ll settle in with blankets, hot chocolate, and maybe some chocolate treats. The lights are a natural phenomenon, so they dance and shift unpredictably. Expect colors to range from neon green to occasional pinks or purples, with shapes that morph constantly. It’s mesmerizing, and no two sightings are quite the same.

Many travelers describe the experience as “absolutely breathtaking,” even if the lights are faint or the weather isn’t perfect. For instance, one reviewer called it “unbelievable,” especially when the cloudy skies parted for a couple of hours, revealing a stunning display overhead. Others have emphasized how tricky it can be to see the lights with the naked eye if the conditions aren’t ideal, which highlights the importance of having an experienced guide.

Photos and Memories

Getting good photos of the auroras can be challenging. The guides often offer to take pictures with your camera—something appreciated by many who want to ensure they capture the moment. If you’re lucky, you’ll also get your photo taken with the lights, providing a nice keepsake. However, some reviews mentioned guides taking fewer photos during the peak moment, possibly due to the cold or lighting conditions, so manage your expectations.

The Return Trip

After several hours of chasing the lights—sometimes successful, sometimes not—the group heads back to Reykjavik for a late-night drop-off. The journey back is typically relaxing, with many sharing their experiences and wrapping up the night. As one reviewer put it, “My tour was canceled due to bad weather, but the communication was smooth and professional,” demonstrating that even if the lights aren’t visible, the experience is managed with care.

Price and Value

At around $103.18 per person, this tour offers a reasonably priced way to try your luck at seeing the aurora with guidance and comfort. Given the inclusions—hot cocoa, blankets, and the chance for photos—it provides good value, especially considering the effort guides put into finding the best viewing spots. The no-fuss pickup, the small group size, and the flexible policy for no-shows or cloudy nights make it a solid option for many travelers.

However, it’s important to remember that the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, so sightings are never guaranteed. The tour’s policy of offering a free second attempt if you don’t see the lights the first time is a considerate gesture, but keep in mind that it depends on availability.

The Experience’s Strengths

• Knowledgeable guides who actively seek the best locations for viewing.
• Comfort amenities like warm blankets and hot cocoa, which make the late-night outing more bearable.
• Photo opportunities that let you capture your experience.
• Flexibility in rebooking if no lights appear on your initial tour.

Areas for Improvement

While many travelers had a good experience, some reviews highlight potential downsides. The most common concern was weather—cloudy skies or bright moonlight can easily prevent seeing the auroras, no matter how good your guides are. A few mentioned poor initial locations, like a roadside parking lot, which isn’t ideal for aurora viewing.

Customer service also received mixed reviews, especially when tours were canceled last minute due to weather, or if communication was lacking. It’s worth being aware that this is a weather-dependent experience, and flexibility is key.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best suited for those who want the convenience of grouped, guided aurora chasing without the hassle of organizing their own trip. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy a cozy atmosphere and don’t mind some late hours. If you’re traveling with children older than six, the tour is generally suitable, provided they’re prepared for the cold.

However, if you’re seeking a guaranteed Northern Lights experience or are very sensitive to weather conditions, you might want to consider the possibility of tour cancellations or look into more specialized options.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from numerous Reykjavik hotels or designated spots, making it easy to join without additional hassle.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly—layers, thermal clothing, hats, gloves, and sturdy shoes are recommended since you’ll be outside for several hours in cold weather.

What happens if we don’t see the Northern Lights?
The tour offers a free second attempt, but you need to contact the provider for re-booking, and availability depends on current conditions.

How long does the tour last?
It typically runs for about 4 hours, including pickup, the time spent searching for the lights, and return.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Yes, the minimum age is 6 years old, and children should be accompanied by an adult.

Can I share my photos on social media?
Absolutely. The tour provides free photos when the lights are visible, and you can also upload your own pictures using the onboard Wi-Fi.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
While not explicitly stated, be prepared for outdoor conditions and possibly uneven terrain at viewing spots.

What if the weather is bad on the night of my tour?
Tours operate in all weather conditions, but if the weather prevents viewing, you might be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This Northern Lights minibus tour from Reykjavik balances convenience, comfort, and expert guidance, making it one of the more accessible options for Aurora hunting. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who value being taken to the best possible spots rather than venturing out alone. The cozy touches—hot cocoa, blankets, and the chance to get photos—add a warm, personal feel to a chilly, unpredictable experience.

While the Aurora is notoriously tricky and weather-dependent, the flexible policies and attentive guides help make this a worthwhile gamble for many. If you’re okay with some potential disappointment but still want a good shot at witnessing this celestial dance, this tour might just be a highlight of your Iceland adventure.

In the end, unless the skies are clouded out or the moon is too bright, you’ll leave with memories of a magical night under the Arctic sky—fingers crossed you’re among the lucky ones to see the lights in all their glory.