NORTHERN LIGHTS HUNT – PRIVATE TOUR

If you’ve ever dreamed of witnessing the Aurora Borealis dancing across the Icelandic sky, this Private Northern Lights Hunt sounds like the perfect way to do it. While I haven’t personally been on this exact tour, I’ve seen plenty of Northern Lights excursions and can tell you that this one hits some important notes for a memorable, comfortable experience. What really stands out is its focus on privacy and luxury, giving you a chance to chase the auroras without the hustle and bustle of larger groups. Plus, with local guides leading the way, you’ll get insights that make the experience richer.

Two things I especially like about this tour are the private transportation—which means no sharing space with strangers—and the carefully selected spots for viewing, away from the city lights. It’s a great way to maximize your chances of seeing the lights in a peaceful setting. That said, a potential consideration is the price point—at $675 per person, it’s on the higher end, but for many, the exclusivity and comfort might be worth it. This tour is best suited for travelers who want a personalized, relaxed experience with some added touches of luxury and are okay with the cost for that privilege.

If you’re after a more intimate, tailored Aurora experience that avoids the crowds and emphasizes comfort, this tour might be just the ticket. It’s also ideal if you’re traveling with a partner or a small group who appreciates a bit of exclusivity and warm company over a casual, large-group adventure.

Key Points

• Personalized experience with private transportation and a dedicated guide
• Optimal viewing locations away from crowded spots
• Comfortable amenities, including hot chocolate and Icelandic Kleina
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
• Cultural storytelling connecting the Aurora with Greco-Roman mythology
• Ideal for those seeking a luxury, private adventure in Iceland’s night sky

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from This Northern Lights Tour

Planning a Northern Lights tour isn’t just about hoping for clear skies; it’s about creating an environment that maximizes your chances of experiencing this incredible phenomenon comfortably. This 5-hour adventure really focuses on blending the thrill of the hunt with a touch of luxury, making it appealing whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned aurora chaser.

The journey begins with pickup from Reykjavík, where you’re greeted by your private guide and transported in a cozy vehicle. This private setup is a big plus—no worries about noisy fellow travelers, and your guide can adapt the schedule based on actual weather conditions, increasing your chances of seeing the lights. As you head south, the guide will choose the best spots for viewing, likely away from the city’s light pollution, where the sky is darker and the auroras more vivid.

Once you arrive at the ideal location, the real magic begins. You’ll be able to stand under the shimmering sky, watching the lights swirl and dance in real time. To keep things cozy, hot chocolate and the traditional Icelandic Kleina are included, adding a warm, comforting touch to the experience. Imagine standing in the chilly night, wrapped in layers, but feeling the warmth of your drink as the sky puts on a show.

Throughout the experience, your local guide—who can speak Chinese, English, French, German, Portuguese, or Spanish—will share stories about the Aurora, its mythology, and how best to photograph or simply take it all in. This storytelling element enriches the experience and helps explain why the Northern Lights have captivated humanity for centuries.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Pickup in Reykjavík
Your adventure starts with a pickup at your accommodation or designated location in Reykjavík. The flexibility here is convenient—just let the tour provider know where you’re staying, and they’ll handle the rest.

Stop 2: Journey to the Southern Region
In your private vehicle, you’ll head toward the south of Iceland. This part of the journey is about 5 hours, but it’s not just driving—it’s a chance for your guide to assess weather conditions and pick the best spot for viewing. Since the tour is private, your guide can adjust the plan on the fly, which is a big advantage if the weather isn’t cooperating on a particular night.

Stop 3: Aurora Viewing at the Perfect Spot
Once you arrive at the chosen location, the focus shifts to the sky. The quiet, away-from-city environment is perfect for catching a clear glimpse of the Aurora Borealis. You’ll have the chance to stand in awe, with minimal light pollution—something you might not get on larger, busier tours.

Return: Back to Reykjavík
After enjoying the spectacle, you’ll head back to Reykjavík, likely around the same time you started or later if the lights are particularly active. This flexibility makes the experience more relaxed overall.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Privacy and exclusivity are the key features here. Many Northern Lights tours tend to be large and crowded, which can diminish the magic. With this private approach, you’ll have the space and quiet needed to truly appreciate the moment. The luxury element is also notable—cozy transport, warm drinks, and a carefully curated spot for viewing.

Having a local guide who can speak multiple languages is a thoughtful touch, especially for international travelers who want to understand the mythology behind the Aurora or get tips for photography. The inclusion of hot chocolate and Kleina is a simple but effective way to enhance comfort, especially during those cold Icelandic nights.

Price-wise, at $675 per person, this experience isn’t inexpensive. But when you compare it to the value of privacy, tailored locations, and added comforts, it could be justified for those seeking a more refined, intimate adventure. Reviews highlight that the experience is well-organized and that the guide’s knowledge adds a lot of value.

What travelers might find as a drawback is the cost, especially if you’re on a tight budget. Also, since the tour isn’t suitable for children under 5, families with younger kids will need to consider other options. The tour’s focus on comfort and privacy makes it less ideal for those looking for a casual or large-group experience.

Practical Details to Keep in Mind

Weather conditions can be unpredictable, so dressing warmly is essential—you’ll want layers, a good winter coat, hat, gloves, and sturdy shoes. The tour isn’t wheelchair or stroller accessible, which is important to note if you’re traveling with mobility challenges or very young children (though children under 5 are not recommended).

Booking flexibility is a major plus—cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund, and you can reserve now with the option to pay later. This makes planning easier, especially in Iceland where weather can be unpredictable and your plans might shift.

If your preferred pickup location isn’t listed, just communicate with the provider—this personalized approach is designed to accommodate your needs.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Is This Tour Best For?

Travelers craving a luxurious, private experience are the obvious audience. If you want to avoid crowded group tours and enjoy intimate moments under the Northern Lights with some comforts, this is a great pick. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone looking for a tailored adventure with local insights.

On the flip side, the price might be a barrier for budget travelers or those not concerned with the privacy aspect. Also, if you’re traveling with very young children or have mobility concerns, this tour’s setup might not be suitable.

In essence, if you’re after a personalized, relaxed, and comfortable way to see the Aurora in Iceland, this tour offers a memorable option. Just be prepared for the chilly night and make sure to dress appropriately.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, starting from your pickup in Reykjavík and including travel time to the viewing spot.

What is included in the price?
The price covers private transportation, all fees and taxes, hot chocolate, and Icelandic Kleina. The guide’s presence and storytelling are part of the experience as well.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 5, mainly because of the late hours and cold conditions. If you have infants or young kids, check with the provider about car seats or suitability.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel for a full refund if you do so at least 24 hours in advance. This flexibility helps if weather conditions change unexpectedly.

What languages are available?
Guides can speak Chinese, English, French, German, Portuguese, and Spanish, making it accessible for many travelers.

Will I see the Northern Lights?
While the tour aims to find the best viewing spot and maximize your chances, the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, so sightings can never be guaranteed. However, the guided approach increases your odds.

Do I need to bring anything?
Warm clothing and sturdy shoes are essential. The tour doesn’t specify additional gear, but dressing in layers is always a good idea in Iceland’s cold nights.

Final Thoughts

This Northern Lights private tour in Iceland offers a blend of exclusivity, comfort, and local expertise. It’s perfect for those who want to chase the auroras with a bit of style and avoid the crowds, all while enjoying some cozy treats and insightful storytelling. While it’s on the pricier side, many travelers value the privacy and flexibility it provides—especially if they’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a calm, intimate experience.

If your main goal is to have a personalized, high-quality aurora viewing with a guide who speaks your language, this tour will likely meet and even exceed your expectations. Just remember to bundle up, stay flexible, and keep your fingers crossed for clear skies. For a memorable, comfortable, and private Northern Lights adventure, this Iceland tour certainly deserves a spot on your list.

Note: For similar experiences, you might explore jeep tours, tours with hot cocoa, or champagne options, which some travelers find add a special touch to their night sky viewing.

You can check availability for your dates here: