From Reykjavik: New Year’s Eve Northern Lights Tour

If you’re planning to ring in the New Year in Iceland, chasing the Northern Lights is often high on the list. We’ve looked into a tour offered by David The Guide Iceland that promises to give travelers a memorable experience of Iceland’s most spectacular natural phenomenon — the Aurora Borealis — on the special night of New Year’s Eve. Whether you’re an aurora hunter or simply eager to enjoy a unique way to celebrate the turning of the year, this tour might just be worth considering.

What really catches our eye about this experience is its focus on stargazing and aurora hunting in a cozy, guided setting. The fact that it includes blankets, self-serve hot beverages, and cookies makes it feel more inviting and manageable even in the cold Icelandic winter. Plus, the opportunity to have your photos taken by the guide and received afterward via email adds a lovely touch for capturing memories.

On the flip side, a potential consideration is that the Northern Lights are a very weather-dependent phenomenon. If the skies are cloudy or conditions aren’t right, the tour might be canceled, which could be disappointing on such a special night. Also, since pickup and drop-off are only within Reykjavik, you’ll need to be prepared to meet the guide in the city.

This tour seems ideal for adventurers who want a relaxed, guided experience with a good chance of seeing the lights, especially if you’re staying in Reykjavik and want a comfortable, well-organized outing. It’s well-suited for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting to celebrate New Year’s with a touch of Icelandic magic.

Key Points

• Flexible booking options allow you to reserve without immediate payment and cancel within 24 hours if plans change.
• The tour’s focus on comfort with blankets, hot drinks, and cookies helps you stay cozy while waiting for the lights.
• Since the tour is dependent on weather and aurora activity, there’s a possibility of cancellation — but the team assesses conditions daily.
• The small group size (max 30-40 people) means a more intimate experience, and your guide will help with photography.
• The end locations are not fixed; they are chosen based on cloud cover and aurora activity to maximize your chances.
• Pickup is within Reykjavik, so plan your meeting point accordingly, especially if you’re in an Airbnb outside the city center.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

The journey begins with a pickup from designated stops in downtown Reykjavik or select hotels nearby. Once aboard, you’ll head out of the city, away from light pollution, to find the best spots to see the Northern Lights. The exact end location depends on weather and aurora activity — the guide’s goal is always to position you where the skies are clearest.

The drive is kept as short as possible but may include multiple stops, especially if the lights are elusive. This approach maximizes your chances but also means patience is key. The guide will set up their camera to take photos of the group, ensuring everyone has a chance for a picture with the aurora if it appears. Plus, you’ll have cozy blankets to wrap around you and a self-serve station for hot chocolate and snacks, making the wait comfortable.

If the Northern Lights do show up, you’ll be watching one of nature’s most captivating displays — a shimmering curtain of green, sometimes with hints of red or purple, dancing across the night sky. The experience isn’t just visual; the quiet, starry landscape adds a peaceful, almost meditative feel. You might find yourself lost in the stillness, eyes fixed upward, marveling at the cosmos.

After the tour, the photos taken by the guide will be emailed to you within a week, so you can relive the magic. If the lights stay hidden, you’ll get a clear understanding of how unpredictable the aurora is, but the overall effort is well worth it for the chance to see this phenomenon in the wild.

The Practical Details

The price of $182 per person might seem steep to some, but considering it includes transportation, blankets, hot drinks, cookies, and professional photography, it’s a decent value. Plus, it’s a guided experience, so you won’t be left wandering unfamiliar countryside trying to find the elusive lights alone.

The tour runs for about 5 hours, though this can shift depending on aurora activity and weather conditions. Starting times vary, so it’s best to check availability when booking. The tour is conducted in English, and the guides are passionate and knowledgeable about Iceland’s skies, which enhances the experience.

Pickup and drop-off are included, but only within Reykjavik, which is an important consideration if you’re staying outside the city. Be prepared for a wait of up to an hour for pickup, and remember to be ready at your designated stop. Also, if you’re traveling with very young children or infants, you’ll need to contact the provider to arrange car seats, as they are required for children under six.

Why This Tour Might Be Perfect for You

If you’re someone who appreciates a well-organized, comfortable outing with the chance of seeing the Aurora Borealis, this tour ticks a lot of boxes. Its focus on small group intimacy and included amenities makes it a laid-back, enjoyable way to spend New Year’s Eve. It’s especially suitable for travelers who prefer not to spend hours in the cold waiting alone or navigating tricky road conditions on their own.

For those eager to combine the thrill of aurora hunting with the comfort of hot drinks and cozy blankets, this experience offers a good balance. If your main goal is to have a reliable, guided adventure with professional photography and the flexibility of booking in advance, it’s worth considering. Keep in mind, though, that the success depends heavily on the weather and aurora activity that night.

Final Thoughts

This New Year’s Eve Northern Lights Tour from Reykjavik offers an inviting way to ring in the new year with a touch of Icelandic wonder. It’s designed for travelers who want to enjoy the thrill of the aurora without sacrificing comfort and convenience. While the unpredictable nature of the Northern Lights means there’s no guarantee of a sighting, the guided approach and thoughtful amenities increase your chances and make the experience more enjoyable.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, well-organized adventure that combines nature, culture, and a little bit of magic, this tour could be just what you need. It’s particularly good for those who value professional guidance and photographic memories, as well as a cozy atmosphere during the wait.

In the end, whether or not the lights appear, you’ll likely leave with a new appreciation for Iceland’s night skies and perhaps a story or two about your own aurora chase to tell long after the holiday season.

FAQ

Q: Does this tour include pickup outside Reykjavik?
A: No, pickup and drop-off are only within Reykjavik. You’ll need to meet at designated stops or hotels in the city.

Q: What should I bring?
A: Warm clothing is essential, and bringing extra layers is a good idea since you’ll be outside for several hours.

Q: Are children allowed on this tour?
A: Yes, but if you have children six years or younger, they require a car seat, which you should arrange in advance by contacting the tour provider.

Q: What happens if the weather is bad?
A: The tour is dependent on weather conditions; if the skies are cloudy or conditions aren’t suitable, the tour may be canceled. The decision is made by 5 PM on the day of the tour.

Q: Will I get photos of the Northern Lights?
A: The guide will set up their camera for group photos if the lights appear. Photos are emailed to you within 7 days after the tour.

Q: How long is the tour?
A: The experience lasts about 5 hours, but this can vary depending on aurora activity and weather conditions.

This tour offers a thoughtfully designed experience that balances anticipation, comfort, and the thrill of witnessing one of nature’s most extraordinary sights. Suitable for those staying in Reykjavik who want a hassle-free, memorable New Year’s Eve adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: