Northern Lights Bus Tour from Reykjavik

If you’re dreaming of catching a glimpse of the elusive Northern Lights while visiting Reykjavik, chances are you’ve come across the popular Northern Lights Bus Tour. This guided outing takes you out into the Icelandic countryside, away from the city’s glow, in hopes of witnessing one of nature’s most breathtaking phenomena. While it’s not guaranteed—auroras are famously unpredictable—the tour offers a chance to see the lights with the help of experienced guides and flexible rescheduling if luck isn’t on your side.

What we especially like about this experience is how it combines comfort and convenience with the element of hope and adventure. The round-trip transport from Reykjavik means you don’t need to worry about driving in the dark, and the hot chocolate adds a cozy touch to an otherwise potentially chilly night. On the flip side, a possible downside is that the tour might not spend as much time at each spot as some travelers would like, especially if the weather isn’t cooperating or if the lights stay stubbornly hidden.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a straightforward, guided experience, especially if you’re short on time or prefer not to wander out into the dark countryside alone. If you’re flexible with timing and aren’t expecting a guaranteed show, it could be just the right way to tick “see the Northern Lights” off your Iceland bucket list.

Key Points

• Flexible rescheduling if you don’t see the lights during your first tour
• Comfortable transportation with WiFi onboard
• Stops at prime viewing sites based on weather conditions
• Guides with knowledge and storytelling, making the experience more engaging
• Cost-effective at $69 per person, offering good value for a guided night tour
• Weather-dependent experience; clear skies are crucial for success

What to Expect from the Northern Lights Bus Tour

The Basics: Price, Duration, and Logistics

This tour runs for approximately 4 hours and is priced at $69 per person. It’s a solid option if you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to chase the auroras without risking your own vehicle or navigating unfamiliar roads at night. The tour includes pickup from your Reykjavik hotel, which is super convenient, and offers a mobile ticket for easy access.

The group size is capped at 65 travelers, making it large enough to feel social but still manageable. WiFi onboard is a nice touch for sharing photos or checking the weather forecast before heading out.

The Itinerary in Detail: What Stops Are Included?

The main stop is Thingvellir National Park, a well-known site about an hour outside the city. This spot is chosen because it’s away from city lights, offering darker skies essential for seeing the auroras. The guide might take you to a few different locations — not necessarily all at once — depending on weather conditions and aurora forecasts, which makes the experience feel more dynamic.

While waiting for the lights, guides often entertain with stories of Icelandic folklore and facts about the aurora. This adds an educational touch that many travelers appreciate, especially if they’re genuinely interested in the science and myths behind the lights.

The Atmosphere: Comfort and Expectations

You’ll be riding on a comfortable coach bus, which many reviews mention positively. It’s a good way to stay warm and dry, especially since outdoor Icelandic nights can be quite cold and windy. Bring warm, waterproof clothing and footwear, as advised, because there’s no guarantee of standing still at each stop.

Some reviews highlight that the hot chocolate served during the tour enhances the experience, adding a cozy element to the chilly night. Facilities like bathrooms are usually available at the stops, which makes the experience more comfortable, especially for families or travelers who prefer not to go entirely without amenities.

How Successful Is This Tour?

Seeing the Northern Lights is never guaranteed—weather and solar activity are unpredictable. That said, many travelers have had success, and the rescheduling policy allows you to join another night for free if you don’t see the lights the first time. Several reviews praise guides like Petra, Harold, and Jessica for their knowledge and enthusiasm, which made the experience more memorable even if the auroras were elusive initially.

However, some reviews mention that the tour might feel rushed or that the group can feel too large, especially when the bus is full. A few felt that only one location was visited, which could limit the chances of a sighting, but that’s often dependent on weather and aurora activity.

The Role of Guides and Weather

Guides are often the stars of this tour. Their expertise and storytelling make the drive engaging, and their tips for camera settings and viewing often help travelers get better photos. The reviews consistently mention guides who go above and beyond to help guests spot the lights and share interesting facts about Iceland and the science of auroras.

Weather plays a huge role here. As one reviewer said, “Exceptional experience if Mother Nature is in the mood”—and that’s really the key. Clear skies are essential. If clouds roll in, the tour might be less successful, but the option to reschedule gives you a second chance.

Is This Tour Worth It?

At $69, this tour offers good value for a guided northern lights chase, especially considering the convenience of hotel pickup and the chance to reschedule if necessary. You get to travel comfortably and avoid the hassle of self-driving, which is a plus in a place where weather can change quickly and roads can be tricky at night.

The group size and guides’ enthusiasm, knowledge, and storytelling are often praised. Many travelers have left glowing reviews about how the tour helped them see the lights on multiple occasions, which is no small feat considering how unpredictable these displays are.

That said, if you’re highly particular about only seeing the lights and don’t want to take a chance, remember that seeing the auroras depends heavily on weather and solar activity. For some, renting a car or trying DIY spots might be more flexible, but those options come with their own risks and challenges.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is well-suited for travelers who want an easy, guided experience without the stress of planning their own chase. It’s especially good if you’re in Reykjavik and want a straightforward way to try your luck at seeing the Northern Lights. If you’re traveling with family or a group that prefers comfort and convenience, this tour offers a reliable option.

However, if you’re someone who loves to explore at your own pace or prefers to go out on multiple nights independently, you might find this tour’s schedule limiting. And if seeing the lights is your main goal, be prepared for the element of luck — even the best guides can’t control the weather or solar activity.

The Sum Up

The Northern Lights Bus Tour from Reykjavik offers a practical, comfortable way to experience this awe-inspiring natural phenomenon. With knowledgeable guides and flexible rescheduling, it’s a dependable option for those wanting to maximize their chances without the hassle of self-driving or extensive planning. The inclusion of storytelling and cozy touches like hot chocolate makes it more than just a chase; it becomes a memorable night out.

While it’s not a guarantee—Auroras are famously unpredictable—the tour’s ability to adapt and its good value make it worth considering, especially if you’re staying in Reykjavik and short on time. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate guided comfort and are okay with the possibility of a night spent waiting in the cold for Mother Nature’s show.

If you’re flexible and eager to try your luck, this tour could make your Iceland trip even more unforgettable. Just pack warm clothes, stay patient, and enjoy the ride as you chase one of the planet’s most stunning displays.

FAQs

How long is the Northern Lights Bus Tour?
It lasts about 4 hours, giving you a good window to see the lights and enjoy the surroundings.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, pickup from your Reykjavik hotel is included, making it very convenient.

Can I reschedule if I don’t see the lights?
Absolutely. If the Aurora doesn’t appear during your first tour, you can join another one for free.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in windproof, waterproof clothing and sturdy footwear, as it can get very cold and wet at night.

Is there WiFi on the bus?
Yes, WiFi is available onboard, which is handy for sharing photos or checking updates.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour depends on clear skies. If the weather is bad, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled, and you’ll be offered a full refund or a new date.

How many people typically join the tour?
Up to 65 travelers can be part of the group, so it’s large but still manageable.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, with a minimum age of 6 years. Make sure kids are dressed warmly and prepared for a chilly night.

Hopefully, this gives you a clear, honest picture of what to expect from the Northern Lights Bus Tour from Reykjavik. It’s a charming way to chase one of nature’s most spectacular displays—if luck and weather cooperate.