Northern Lights Hunt and Jeep Tour With A Photographer

If you’re dreaming of catching the elusive Northern Lights during your Iceland trip, this Northern Lights Hunt and Jeep Tour might be just the thing. We haven’t done it ourselves but have read plenty of reviews and details to give you a clear picture of what to expect. It’s designed for those who want a more intimate experience, with the added bonus of a guide who’s skilled at finding clear skies and capturing the moment with photos.

What we really like about this tour is the focus on small-group intimacy—only up to 15 travelers—which means more personalized attention and less crowding. Plus, the use of a Jeep to venture into darker, off-beaten locations is a smart move, giving you a better chance at seeing the Aurora away from city lights. The inclusion of hot chocolate, and sometimes rum, adds a cozy touch to the often freezing Icelandic nights.

On the flip side, a potential drawback is that Northern Lights sightings are never guaranteed—a fact that’s true for nearly all Aurora tours. Weather plays a huge role, and sometimes cloud cover or solar activity just doesn’t cooperate. So, while the tour promises a great experience, it’s worth going in with realistic expectations.

This tour suits travelers who value expert guidance, a small-group vibe, and don’t mind the possibility of multiple attempts to see the lights. If you’re looking for a memorable, well-organized adventure with plenty of chances for photos and comfort, this could be a good fit.

Key Points

• Small Groups: Max 15 travelers for a more personalized experience.
• Off-Road Access: Jeep gets you to darker, less accessible spots for better Aurora viewing.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides who track cloud cover and Aurora activity.
• Photo Opportunities: Professional help capturing the moment, with access to your photos afterward.
• Weather Flexibility: No extra charge for retries if skies aren’t clear.
• Timing & Duration: About 4 hours starting around 9:30 pm, with pickup from Reykjavik hotels.

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

When considering a Northern Lights tour, the journey itself is as important as the destination. This particular excursion begins with pickup in Reykjavik around 9:30 pm, giving you plenty of time to relax and prepare for the night ahead. The timing is ideal because the lights are typically more active late at night when the skies are darkest. You might find, based on reviews, that early evenings are more about waiting and anticipation, especially if cloud cover is an issue.

The Jeep and Off-Road Adventures

What sets this tour apart is the choice of transportation—a Jeep instead of a standard bus. This isn’t just a glamour move; it’s a practical one. The Jeep’s high clearance and ability to go off-road mean you’ll be driven away from city lights and into darker, more remote areas. Many reviews emphasize that these spots are key to seeing the Aurora with less light pollution.

Imagine bouncing over uneven terrain, wrapped in warm clothes, hot chocolate in hand, eyes glued to the sky—and possibly, if luck is on your side, witnessing the mesmerizing dance of the Northern Lights. The smaller group size means your guide can focus on specific needs, answer questions, and help with photography. Several guests appreciated that their guides took photos for them, which is a nice touch, especially in such a fleeting spectacle.

The Guides and Their Knowledge

Throughout the reviews, one theme shines through: the guides are knowledgeable and passionate about the Aurora. Some reviewers mention that guides study cloud movement all day, tracking satellites, and adjusting plans accordingly. This isn’t just a driver; it’s someone who genuinely cares about helping you see the lights and capturing the moment.

One guest noted that the guide set up a telescope and camera, providing professional-quality photos afterward—valuable souvenirs of a once-in-a-lifetime sight. Others mentioned that guides kept spirits high with hot chocolate and rum, which is a clever way to combat the cold and keep everyone engaged.

The Sightings and Weather Considerations

Here’s the reality: Aurora sightings depend heavily on weather and solar activity. Several reviews recount nights when clouds obscured the sky, despite positive forecasts. The tour provider seems aware of this, as they offer free retries if the sky doesn’t cooperate. A few guests were disappointed when clouds blocked the view, but appreciated the opportunity to come back on another night.

One reviewer even said, “our first night was very cloudy, but the tour was very accommodating,” and they got to see the lights on a second attempt. That flexibility is a plus for anyone worried about missing out due to weather.

The Food and Atmosphere

The small touches can make a big difference. Many guests raved about the hot chocolate and rum, which adds a cozy element to the often frigid Icelandic night. Plus, the guide’s effort to take photos and provide a comfortable environment helps turn a potentially cold and uncertain experience into a memorable night.

Price and Value

At around $216 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest option, but considering the personalized service, the use of a Jeep to access dark spots, and the professional photography, it’s quite reasonable. Think of it as investing in comfort, guidance, and better odds of a sighting—important factors when you’re chasing the Northern Lights.

Some reviews highlight good value, especially when you factor in the hot chocolate, the photos, and the small group setting. If you’re someone who appreciates more attention and personalized care, this tour is worth it.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a traveler who wants to maximize your chances of seeing the Aurora in comfort and with expert help, this could be a solid choice. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate small-group experiences and value photography. However, it’s not ideal if you’re only willing to go out on clear nights or expect guaranteed sightings—weather still plays a big role.

Final Thoughts

This Northern Lights Jeep tour from Reykjavik offers a blend of adventure, comfort, and expertise. You’ll travel into Iceland’s dark countryside, away from city lights, with a guide who knows how to track the Aurora. The off-road Jeep sets the scene for a more intimate and potentially successful Northern Lights experience, complete with hot chocolate and professional photos.

While the possibility of missing the lights is inherent in any Aurora tour, the provider’s flexibility with retries and the knowledgeable guides help boost your odds. It’s an experience that’s about more than just the lights—it’s about the atmosphere, the adventure, and the shared excitement of one of nature’s most spectacular displays.

This tour is best for travelers who want a personalized, well-organized outing, especially if capturing photos matters to them. It’s less suited for those dead-set on guaranteed sightings or who prefer larger, less intimate groups. If you’re okay with some uncertainty and want a cozy, guided adventure, you’ll likely find this tour a memorable highlight of your Iceland trip.

FAQ

Do I need to bring my own warm clothes? Yes, it’s advised to wear warm clothes and comfortable walking shoes, as it can get very cold at night in Iceland.

What happens if I don’t see the Northern Lights? The tour offers free retries if weather conditions prevent sightings, so you can come back another night at no extra cost.

How long is the tour? The experience lasts approximately 4 hours, starting around 9:30 pm, including pickup and drop-off.

Is this tour suitable for families or children? The tour is not recommended for children under 8, likely due to cold conditions and the late night timing.

What’s included in the price? Pickup and drop-off in Reykjavik, hot chocolate (and sometimes rum), and professional photos taken during the tour are included.

Can I expect to get good photos? Many guides help with photography, and several reviews mention receiving high-quality pictures afterward, making it a great souvenir.

How does the guide choose the location? The guide assesses cloud cover, Aurora activity, and other factors to pick the best possible viewing spot each night.

If you’re headed to Iceland with hopes of seeing the Northern Lights, this tour gives you a good shot at a cozy, scenic, and personalized adventure—just keep your expectations realistic, and dress warmly!