Private Northern Lights Adventure With Lobster Dinner

Getting a Glimpse of the Aurora Borealis: An Honest Look at the Private Northern Lights Adventure with Lobster Dinner

If you’re dreaming of catching the Northern Lights during your Iceland trip, you’ll want to consider this private tour from Reykjavik. It’s designed to maximize your chances of seeing the celestial display while offering a memorable dining experience—namely, a lobster feast right by the sea. From what we’ve seen in reviews and tour descriptions, this experience balances luxury and practicality, aiming to deliver some of the best moments Iceland has to offer.

What really grabs us about this tour? First, the personalized nature—it’s exclusive to your party, which means more flexibility and a more intimate experience. Second, the combination of a gourmet lobster dinner and a Northern Lights hunt makes it feel more like a special occasion than just another sightseeing trip. That said, one thing to keep in mind is that Northern Lights sightings are never guaranteed, since they depend on weather and solar activity. But if you’re after a well-organized, comfortable, and fun way to chase the lights, this might be a good pick.

This tour seems best suited for travelers who are comfortable with a slightly higher price point and want a more curated experience. Families with older children, couples, or groups looking for a private outing will probably appreciate the tailored approach. If your schedule allows plenty of advance planning, booking 113 days ahead—on average—is smart, as this tour is popular.

Key Points

• Private tour for a personalized experience that caters only to your group.
• Combines a scenic countryside drive, dinner, and Northern Lights spotting for a well-rounded evening.
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, saving you from logistics worries.
• Dinner features a three-course lobster feast, with tasty options like langoustine soup and garlic butter tails.
• Led by experienced guides who know the best places to hunt the Aurora Borealis.
• Weather-dependent experience—sightings aren’t guaranteed, so a flexible attitude helps.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

The adventure starts with hotel pickup at 7:00 pm, a time that offers a good chance to catch the sunset and settle in for the evening. The first stop is the seaside village of Stokkseyri, which sets the perfect scene—salt air, rustic houses, and a cozy vibe. Here, you’ll indulge in a three-course lobster dinner that’s already earned praise from past guests. The meal includes langoustine tails sautéed in garlic and butter, paired with baby potatoes, pickled cucumbers, and a salad. For dessert, you can choose what suits your fancy. Many reviewers have highlighted how delicious and plentiful the meal is, making it a highlight of the trip. You also get hot chocolate, Icelandic water, and chocolates, which add a nice touch of comfort and indulgence.

Following dinner, the real adventure begins. Your guide—an aurora-hunter with local expertise—will take you into the Icelandic countryside, away from the light pollution of Reykjavik. This is the key to better Aurora viewing. The guide’s knowledge of the area and the Northern Lights’ unpredictable nature means they’re well-equipped to find the best spots.

The Search for the Lights

The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, so despite the effort and local expertise, sightings are not guaranteed. As one review states, “we did manage to catch the lights although they had not been strong that night.” The guides do their best to give you the best chance, and the fact that the tour is private means they can tailor the search based on weather conditions and Aurora forecasts.

What to Expect During the Tour

Expect a comfortable, scenic drive with stops at promising spots. The guide will take professional photos of you and your partner, which is a nice bonus—this way, you leave with memories that go beyond your own photos. The tour also provides WiFi, so you can share updates or keep in touch with loved ones while out in the countryside.

The Overall Value

At nearly $1,000 per person, this isn’t your budget tour. But considering the luxury of a private experience, gourmet dinner, hotel transfers, professional photos, and the expert guidance—the price makes sense for those seeking a premium, hassle-free adventure. The reviews support this, with guests noting Thor’s knowledgeability and friendliness as standout qualities.

Pros and Cons from Real Travelers

Reviewers have appreciated the personalized attention and delicious lobster dinner. One guest said, “Thor arrived on time, was very knowledgeable and friendly, and made sure we had a night to remember.” Another appreciated the local insight of the guide, who was “very accommodating, enthusiastic, and knowledgeable.”

On the downside, weather and solar activity are variables outside the tour’s control, and some nights may not be ideal for Aurora viewing. Still, the tour operates in all weather conditions, so you’re not left stranded if the clouds roll in—though no Aurora, no refund unless canceled due to weather.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This adventure is ideal for couples or small groups who want a more exclusive experience and are happy to pay a premium for comfort and convenience. It’s well-suited for those who appreciate good food—since the lobster feast is a highlight—and want to combine a scenic drive, a gourmet meal, and the hope of witnessing the Aurora Borealis. If you’re traveling with older children or teens who can handle uneven terrain and late-night hours, this could work too.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 2 hours, starting with hotel pickup at 7:00 pm.

What does the dinner include?
The dinner features a three-course lobster feast, including langoustine tails sautéed in garlic and butter, baby potatoes, pickled cucumbers, a salad, and a dessert of your choice. Hot chocolate and chocolates are also included.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While families with older children might enjoy the experience, younger children should be considered carefully as the tour involves uneven terrain and late hours.

How likely am I to see the Northern Lights?
Since the Aurora is a natural phenomenon, sightings cannot be guaranteed. However, the guide’s local knowledge and drive into the countryside significantly increase your chances compared to staying in the city.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour operates regardless of weather conditions, but if the Northern Lights are not visible because of clouds or storms, the tour is still a scenic countryside drive with dinner. If weather cancels the Aurora entirely, you can reschedule or get a full refund.

Are hotel pickups available?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off directly from your Reykjavik hotel, making logistics simple.

Can I book this tour last minute?
It’s recommended to book well in advance—average bookings are made about 113 days ahead—due to its popularity and limited availability.

All in all, this private Northern Lights adventure offers a blend of comfort, delicious food, and expert guidance, making it an attractive choice for travelers who want to make the most of their Iceland trip. While the Northern Lights can never be guaranteed, the thoughtful planning, private setting, and gourmet dinner make this a memorable night—whether or not the skies decide to put on a show.