Aurora/Northern light hunt and photos (photography help provided)

Walking into the wonder of Iceland’s Northern Lights — or Aurora Borealis — can feel like a bit of a gamble. Many travelers are eager to see this spectacular natural light show during their winter visit, but sky conditions are unpredictable. That’s where this tour from Reykjavik, offered by ArcticShots, comes in. It’s designed to give you the best shot at spotting the Lights, while also helping you take stunning photos of the experience.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how personalized it feels, especially with a maximum group size of just eight people. Plus, the inclusion of professional photography help and two free images is a thoughtful touch that makes it stand out for anyone wanting to capture those elusive, glowing scenes. And the hassle-free pickup from your Reykjavik hotel means you won’t need to stress over logistics on what’s already a pretty magical night out.

One possible snag? Since the Northern Lights are, well, a natural phenomenon, sightings are never guaranteed. The tour depends on good weather and clear skies, and you might have to reschedule or accept that the Lights might be shy. That said, if you’re looking for a serious shot at seeing and photographing the Aurora with expert help, this tour could be just right. It suits travelers who value quality over quantity, want professional photos, and prefer a smaller, more intimate group experience—perfect if you’re traveling with a camera and some patience.

Key Points

• Focused on Aurora Viewing and Photography: Expert tips and professional photos make this a standout for photography enthusiasts.
• Small Group Size: Max eight travelers ensures a more personal, less crowded experience.
• Hassle-Free Logistics: Includes pickup and drop-off at your Reykjavik hotel, saving you time and effort.
• Flexible and Honest: You’re informed about weather risks, and rescheduling or refunds are straightforward if conditions don’t cooperate.
• Value for Money: At $279 per person, the tour offers personalized guidance, professional photos, and a great chance to see the Aurora.
• Comfort with Hot Drinks: Coffee, tea, or hot chocolate are provided at the viewing location, adding a cozy touch.

What to Expect from the Aurora/Northern Lights Hunt

When you sign up for this tour, you’re opting for more than just a bus ride out of town—you’re investing in a well-thought-out experience that maximizes your odds of catching the Lights and helps you document the memory in the best way. The tour lasts approximately 3 to 5 hours, which is enough time to move around to different vantage points on the Reykjanes Peninsula, away from city lights, but not so long that it becomes exhausting.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Out of Reykjavik into Reykjanes
This is the core of your Northern Lights adventure. You’ll leave the city behind to escape light pollution as best as possible within a reasonable distance. The main goal here is to find a clear, dark spot with a good view of the sky. It’s not a guided sightseeing tour in the traditional sense; rather, it’s tailored toward spotting the Aurora if conditions permit.

What makes this special?
The area around Reykjanes is known for its dramatic landscapes—geothermal fields, rocky coastlines, and volcanic formations—giving you a stunning backdrop for your photos. It’s a quieter, less crowded location that offers some of the best chances to see the Lights without interference from city lights.

What’s included?
You’ll get help with taking pictures of the Northern Lights and photos of you with them, which is a real plus. Plus, hot drinks—coffee, tea, or hot chocolate—are provided, keeping you warm and comfy as you wait.

Weather considerations
Since the Northern Lights depend on clear skies, the tour’s success hinges on weather conditions. The tour operator is transparent about this, and if the weather doesn’t cooperate, they offer options for rescheduling or refunds. As one reviewer noted, “They reached out with options of dates or cancellation… very thoughtful,” which gives peace of mind.

The Value of Photography Help and Professional Photos

This tour’s standout feature is the expert photography assistance. If you’ve ever struggled to capture the Aurora, you’ll appreciate having someone to guide you on camera settings, composition, and timing. The professional photographer, Bragi, is praised in reviews for his helpfulness and expertise, making the experience both educational and fun.

What’s more?
You receive two free images of your tour—pictures of you under the Lights, taken with professional equipment. This means even if your camera isn’t the best or the conditions aren’t perfect, you’ll still walk away with memorable photos.

A reviewer mentioned, “Bragi was an absolute legend from start to finish,” highlighting the personal touch and knowledge that make this tour stand out. Knowing you’ll have professional shots of your Northern Lights experience is a big plus, especially considering how fleeting and unpredictable the Lights can be.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of eight people, this tour feels intimate. If you’re someone who prefers smaller groups over large bus tours, you’ll find this a welcome change. It allows for more personalized attention from the guide and photographer, plus a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

From reviews, we see that many travelers appreciate this setup: “If you’re contemplating booking a Northern Lights tour with some of the generic tour companies, then feel free, but I would 10000% recommend spending the extra money on a private tour like these guys!!”
This suggests that the experience is tailored, minor adjustments can be made based on the weather, and you won’t get lost in a crowd.

Logistics and Practicalities

Pickup and drop-off are included, making it straightforward. You just meet your guide at your hotel or a designated spot in Reykjavik, and you’re off. The tour runs every night from 7:00 PM to 11:30 PM from November to April, which aligns well with prime Aurora viewing season.

Cost-wise, at $279 per person, it’s on the higher side compared to some larger group tours, but the personalized guidance, professional photos, and small-group intimacy add good value. It’s a bucket-list experience that’s well worth the price if you’re serious about photographing the Aurora and want a more tailored experience.

Weather and Cancellation Policy

The tour’s success truly depends on weather conditions. If the skies stay clouded or stormy, your chances of seeing the Lights drop significantly. Thankfully, the operator offers full refunds or rescheduling if the weather cancels the tour, and they’re upfront about this.

One traveler shared, “We didn’t make it to the tour because of weather, but they reached out to us with options,” which speaks to their honest approach. The free cancellation policy up to 24 hours means you can plan without worry, especially in winter when weather can be unpredictable.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This Aurora hunt is ideal for photographers or those eager to get professional-quality images of the Lights. It’s perfect if you’re seeking a more personalized, small-group experience with expert guidance. Travelers who value honesty about weather and flexibility will appreciate the straightforward communication.

If you’re visiting Reykjavik during the Aurora season, and weather permits, this tour offers a genuine shot at capturing one of nature’s most beautiful phenomena—plus some really good photos to prove it. It’s especially suited to those who want a relaxed, intimate outing rather than a big bus tour with a lot of other people.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a serious chance to see the Northern Lights in Iceland, this tour by ArcticShots ticks a lot of boxes. The small group size, professional photography help, and flexible approach make it an experience worth considering. It’s not just about seeing the Lights; it’s about photographing and remembering the moment in the best way possible.

While weather remains an unpredictable factor, the honesty and responsiveness of the operator reduce the risk of disappointment. The value becomes clear when you consider the personalized guidance, professional images, and the effort to avoid light pollution—all bundled into a three to five-hour adventure.

For travelers who love photography, want a cozy, intimate experience, and are prepared for the natural variability of Aurora sightings, this tour could be a highlight of your Iceland trip. Just remember to dress warmly, be patient, and enjoy the anticipation of those fleeting, magical Northern Lights.

FAQ

Is pickup included in this tour?
Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off at your Reykjavik hotel, making the experience more relaxed and hassle-free.

How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 3 to 5 hours, giving you plenty of time to find a good viewing spot and take photos.

What should I bring?
While not specified, bringing warm clothing, a camera, and perhaps a tripod would be wise. Hot drinks like coffee, tea, or hot chocolate are provided.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but specific age limits aren’t listed. Given the small group size, it’s suitable for most ages comfortable with outdoor winter conditions.

What happens if the weather/clouds are bad?
If the weather doesn’t permit Aurora sightings, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. The operator is transparent about weather risks.

How many people are on this tour?
A maximum of 8 travelers ensures a more personalized and comfortable experience.

What’s included in the price?
Photography help, two free professional photos, hot drinks, and hotel pickup/drop-off are included.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full cancellation is possible up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed for children, if your family is comfortable with outdoor winter conditions and small-group settings, it can work well. Just be mindful of the weather and timing.

In the end, this Northern Lights tour offers a thoughtful, intimate way to experience one of Iceland’s most breathtaking phenomena. It’s ideal for those who value expert guidance and professional photos, and who are okay with the natural unpredictability of Aurora sightings. If that sounds like your kind of adventure, this might just be the highlight of your trip.