Northern Lights Minibus Tour with Free Photos & Hot Chocolate

If you’re planning a trip to Iceland, chasing the northern lights is usually at the top of the list. This particular tour from Reykjavik promises to give you a solid shot at witnessing the aurora borealis while providing a cozy, guided experience. We’ve looked into it thoroughly so you can decide if it fits your travel style and expectations.

What immediately draws us in are the personalized touches—like the opportunity to get professional photos of yourself with the lights and the inclusion of hot chocolate and snacks to keep warm during the wait. Plus, the tour’s small-group setting (max 18 people) suggests a more intimate, less rushed adventure. On the flip side, a potential concern is the inherent unpredictability of the northern lights and some reviews mentioning communication hiccups or discomfort due to weather.

This tour works well for those who want a guided, relaxed trip outside city lights and don’t mind the chance of not seeing the lights. If you’re okay with some variability—because, let’s face it, the northern lights are famously unpredictable—this could be a solid choice. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate good value, friendly guides, and a bit of flexibility.

Key Points

• Personalized experience with small-group size and professional photos
• Comfortable transportation leaving Reykjavik to escape city light pollution
• Weather and cloud coverage are variables that can influence your chances of seeing the aurora
• Hot drinks and snacks help you stay warm and relaxed during the wait
• Guides are knowledgeable and eager to share insights about the aurora
• Flexible re-booking policy if conditions aren’t ideal on your first night

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour is designed to maximize your chances of catching the northern lights, which means leaving Reykjavik’s glow behind and heading into the dark, open skies. It lasts roughly four hours, making it a manageable evening activity, especially after a day exploring Reykjavík’s sights. The tour is operated by Troll Expeditions, known for small, personalized outings, which means you’ll be in a minibus with no more than 18 fellow travelers.

The Itinerary in Detail

Your adventure kicks off in Reykjavík, where you’ll be picked up from designated bus stops—most likely near your hotel if you’re staying centrally. This form of transport is convenient, and the minibuses are comfortable, with WiFi onboard. The driver and guide will then set out to find the clearest skies, which could mean a bit of driving around Iceland. One of the main perks here is the flexibility: if the weather isn’t cooperating in your initial location, the guide will drive to different spots based on cloud cover and aurora forecasts.

The main goal? To locate a spot with the highest chance of seeing the aurora. Your guide’s local knowledge and real-time assessment of weather conditions help make this a more targeted hunt than just waiting in a fixed spot. Several reviews mention that guides are eager to chase clear skies, with some driving quite a distance in their quest.

The Experience at the First Stop and Beyond

Once at the chosen location, you’ll step out of the minibus into the cold night air. Don’t forget to dress in layers—that’s the advice from experienced travelers, especially since Icelandic winter nights can be frigid and windy. Your guide will offer insights into the science of the northern lights, making the experience more educational and engaging.

During the wait, hot chocolate, snacks like Hraun Icelandic Chocolate, and WiFi help pass the time. Some reviews mention that guides try to take great photos of the group and the aurora, offering these digital shots afterward. While there are mixed comments about whether everyone received their photos—some travelers were disappointed that photos weren’t provided—they were often pleased with the guide’s effort.

Chances of Seeing the Lights

The reviews are fairly optimistic, with many guests describing the aurora as “spectacular” or “absolutely incredible.” However, some reviews also highlight how unpredictable the northern lights are; clouds and weather conditions can obscure the view, and in some cases, the tour had to be rescheduled or canceled.

One reviewer pointed out that the tour was canceled due to heavy clouds, and while the company was quick to reschedule, this is a reminder to keep expectations flexible. The ability to rebook for free is a nice touch, especially given the weather-dependent nature of the activity.

Guides and Group Size

Guides like Maggie, Julianna, and Hawk are praised for their enthusiasm, helpfulness, and knowledge—key factors in making the experience memorable. Many reviews mentioned that guides took extra effort to take photos, answer questions, and ensure everyone felt comfortable despite the cold.

The small-group size is a definite plus. With a maximum of 18 travelers, you’ll likely find it easier to ask questions and get personalized attention. This intimacy, however, means that if the weather refuses to cooperate, the experience might be less spectacular than hoped.

The Cost and Value

Priced at around $113.96 per person, this tour offers quite good value considering the included extras: pickup and drop-off, hot chocolate and snacks, WiFi, and digital photos. Some travelers commented that the guide’s effort to chase clear skies and provide a personalized experience added to the value, even if they did not always see the aurora.

While the price isn’t budget-friendly, the overall package—especially with the convenience of door-to-door transfers and expert guidance—makes it worthwhile for those keen to make the most of their northern lights chase.

Practical Aspects and Considerations

Transportation and Comfort

The minibus is generally comfortable and small enough to feel intimate, but a few reviews noted that the bus itself isn’t very plush. The real comfort comes from the ease of being picked up from your hotel and driven directly to prime viewing spots, saving you from the cold and the hassle of self-driving in winter conditions.

Weather and Clothing

Weather is a big factor in success. The tour is dependent on clear skies, which Iceland’s winter weather can often spoil. As one review suggests, dressing in layers is essential, especially hats and gloves, since even hot drinks may not fully warm you up if you’re chilled from the outside.

Photos and Memories

The included digital photos can be a highlight—it’s a real bonus to have professional shots of you and the lights. However, a few travelers noted disappointment when they didn’t receive their photos, so it’s wise to confirm this expectation beforehand.

Flexibility and Re-booking

If no aurora appears on your first try, the tour’s policy allows you to rebook for free. This flexibility is a big advantage, given the unpredictable nature of the lights. Several reviews shared positive experiences with seamless rebooking, which adds peace of mind.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience appeals mainly to travelers who want a guided, comfortable, and personalized journey outside Reykjavík. If you’re genuinely excited about the possibility of seeing the northern lights, and you’re okay with some uncertainty, it’s a solid pick.

It’s especially suitable for those who value small-group interactions, expert guides, and the opportunity to receive photos of their experience. However, if you’re expecting guaranteed views or are sensitive to cold, you might want to prepare accordingly or consider other options.

FAQ

Do I need to bring my own warm clothing?
Yes, dressing in layers, including hats and gloves, is highly recommended since Icelandic nights can be cold and windy.

What happens if the weather is cloudy or the lights don’t appear?
The tour depends on good weather and clear skies. If conditions aren’t favorable, the tour can be canceled or rescheduled at no extra cost, and you can rebook for free.

Are the photos really included?
Yes, digital photos of you and the aurora are included. However, some travelers have noted that they didn’t receive their photos, so it’s good to confirm this before the trip.

How long does the tour last?
It typically runs for about four hours, starting from Reykjavík and heading out into the night.

Is pickup available from my hotel?
Most Reykjavik hotels are covered, with pickups offered from designated bus stops, making the process convenient.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 18 travelers, contributing to a more intimate experience.

This northern lights minibus tour offers a practical, well-rounded way to chase the aurora with guidance and comfort. The small-group setting, knowledgeable guides, and included photos help elevate the experience beyond just waiting in the cold. It’s clear that Iceland’s winter weather can be a gamble, but with flexible rebooking policies and an experienced guide, your chances of making magical memories are pretty good.

For anyone eager to combine a scenic chase with warm drinks, expert insights, and the chance to capture a once-in-a-lifetime photo, this tour is worth considering. Just remember to stay flexible, dress warmly, and keep your expectations realistic—nature doesn’t always cooperate, but that’s part of the adventure.

Happy aurora hunting!