Award Winning Private Northern Lights Tour with All Inclusive

Exploring the Private Northern Lights Tour with All-Inclusive Features: An Honest Look

If you’ve been dreaming of witnessing the Northern Lights in Iceland, this private tour might catch your eye. It promises a personalized, door-to-door experience packed with cozy gear, hot drinks, and professional photos—all aimed at maximizing your chance to see the Aurora borealis. As someone who’s seen a lot of tours like this, I’ll share what makes this one potentially appealing—and what you might want to keep in mind before booking.

What stands out first are the all-inclusive touches that put comfort and convenience front and center. You get winter jumpsuits to brave the cold, hot beverages to keep warm, and even professional camera support to make sure you capture the moment. The personalized approach, with a guide planning your route based on weather conditions, is another big plus. On the flip side, the price tag—around $1,380 per group—might seem steep for some, especially considering the mixed reviews about some logistical hiccups. Still, if you’re after a private, tailored Northern Lights experience, this tour could be worth it, especially if you prefer a more intimate setting over crowded group outings.

This tour is likely best suited for travelers who value comfort, personalized attention, and flexible planning. If you’re looking for a stress-free way to chase the Aurora without worrying about logistics, this might be a solid pick. If you’re fine with a less tailored, more budget-friendly option, there could be other tours to consider. Now, let’s unpack what this experience really offers, from the stops to the overall vibe.

Key Points

• Private & Personalized: Tailored to your group with exclusive attention from guides.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Cozy jumpsuits, hot drinks, snacks, and professional photo support included.
• Flexible Locations: Routes are chosen based on weather and Aurora forecasts, aiming for the best chances.
• Multiple Scenic Stops: Includes stops at Reykjanes Peninsula, Thingvellir National Park, and other natural sights.
• Price Point: At around $1,380 for a group, it’s on the higher end, but offers privacy and custom planning.
• Weather Dependency: Aurora sightings aren’t guaranteed, but the guide’s route planning aims to maximize your odds.

The Experience in Detail

Booking and Price Analysis

At about $1,380 per group (up to 6 people), this tour isn’t the cheapest around, but it promises a lot in terms of personalization and comfort. You’re paying not just for the chase but for an experience that’s designed to keep you warm, relaxed, and well taken care of. The fact that most travelers book it around 58 days in advance indicates good demand and suggests that it’s a popular choice for those committed to this experience.

What’s Included

The cozy winter jumpsuits are a real highlight—they protect against Iceland’s cold and wind, which can be intense at night. Hot drinks, liquor, and local treats are a thoughtful addition, helping you stay warm and enjoy the moment. The inclusion of professional photos and tripods for your camera is especially helpful; no one wants to spend precious Aurora viewing time trying to get decent shots, and guides providing assistance in this area are a bonus.

Itinerary Breakdown

The tour’s structure involves three main stops, each carefully chosen to increase your chances of seeing the lights. The stops include:

• Southern Region: The tour starts by leaving Reykjavik behind, heading into the darkness. This initial stop sets the tone—away from city lights, with the chance of spotting the Aurora at its best. The guide’s ability to select locations based on weather and geomagnetic activity is critical here.
• Reykjanes Peninsula: Often known for its volcanic landscape and geothermal features, this area provides a striking natural backdrop. The tour aims to find clear skies and minimal light pollution, though the exact natural sights you pass are a surprise.
• Thingvellir National Park: Famous for its unique geology and historical significance, this UNESCO site offers stunning scenery that can make your Aurora experience even more memorable. The guide’s strategy to move away from cloud cover and city lights can make a real difference here.

Each stop lasts about an hour, giving you ample time to soak in the scenery, chat with your guide, and keep an eye on the sky. The strategy is simple: move where the weather and Aurora forecasts look promising.

Guides and Local Expertise

Several reviews praise the guides for their knowledge, flexibility, and professionalism. One reviewer even called the guide “Heimir’s skill and enthusiasm” a highlight, likening the experience to being on a film set. This kind of personalized attention can make a big difference, especially if you’re new to Northern Lights chasing.

Logistics & Group Size

With a maximum of 6 people per group, the private nature of this tour offers a more relaxed experience. No noisy crowds or competing for photo opportunities—just your group and the night sky. Pickup from Reykjavik hotels, cruise terminals, and guesthouses adds to the convenience. The tour usually starts at 8:00 pm, aligning with prime Aurora viewing hours.

Pros & Cons Based on Reviews

One glowing review raves about the communication, professionalism, and professional photos—highlighting the relaxing, stress-free nature of the trip. Conversely, a less favorable review mentions a situation where the customer was not picked up or received a refund, emphasizing the importance of clear communication and verifying arrangements, especially when booking far in advance.

The Value Question

Considering the price, this tour offers a high level of comfort and personalization. The inclusion of professional photos, hot drinks, and flexible routing add value—especially if you’re someone who prefers a hands-off, luxe experience. For budget travelers, however, there are likely less expensive options that still aim for Aurora sightings, but perhaps with less comfort or privacy.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private Northern Lights tour is ideal if you’re after an intimate, comfortable, and customizable experience. It’s perfect for those who don’t mind investing a bit more for peace of mind and personalized service. If you’re traveling with a small group or family, and want the convenience of door-to-door pickup, this tour ticks those boxes nicely. However, if your main goal is strictly budget travel or if you’re okay with a group setting, there might be other options to explore.

Final Thoughts

In the world of Northern Lights tours, this one stands out for its personalized approach and all-inclusive comforts. The professional guidance, combined with cozy gear and the opportunity for high-quality photos, makes it a compelling choice for travelers who value a smooth, tailored experience. While the price is on the higher side, the added touches and private nature could well justify the cost for those seeking a special, hassle-free adventure.

That said, it’s important to remember that Aurora sightings are ultimately weather-dependent, and even the best planning can’t guarantee a sighting. If you’re okay with that and value comfort and exclusivity, this tour might be just what you’re looking for.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for those who dislike cold weather?
The tour provides winter jumpsuits designed to protect against the cold, but Iceland’s winter nights can still be chilly. If you’re very sensitive to cold, dressing warmly underneath is recommended.

Does the tour include pick-up from my hotel?
Yes, transfers are offered from hotels, cruise terminals, and many guesthouses in Reykjavik, making it convenient for most guests.

What if I don’t see the Northern Lights?
The tour promises a second tour free if the Aurora isn’t visible on your scheduled night, giving you another chance to catch the lights.

How long does each stop last?
Each stop lasts approximately one hour, providing sufficient time to enjoy the scenery, take photos, and wait for the Aurora.

Is the tour customizable based on weather conditions?
Yes, the guide plans the route and timings based on weather, cloud cover, and geomagnetic forecasts to maximize your chances.

Can I get professional photos of the Aurora?
Absolutely. The guide provides professional photo support and tripods, so you won’t need to worry about capturing the Aurora yourself.

What is the cancelation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the tour are non-refundable.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While not explicitly geared towards children, the tour’s private and flexible nature makes it suitable for small groups, but always check with the provider for specific age recommendations.

If you’re after a private, comfortable, and well-organized Northern Lights adventure in Iceland, this tour offers a lot of thoughtful touches. Just remember, patience and a bit of luck are key when chasing the Aurora—so enjoy the journey regardless of the outcome.