Northern Lights – Small Group Tour from Reykjavik

Chasing the Aurora: A Deep Dive into the Reykjavik Northern Lights Small Group Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Iceland and want to catch that elusive northern lights show, a guided tour like this one from Reykjavik could be your best bet. With a solid reputation backed by over 117 reviews and a 4.5-star rating, this tour promises to boost your chances of witnessing the aurora borealis in all its glory.

What stands out immediately is the focus on maximizing your viewing prospects—the expert guides use their knowledge of the weather and aurora forecasts to take you to the most promising spots. Plus, if luck isn’t on your side on the first night, you’re not out of luck; the tour’s refund policy allows you to join another night for free.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour is heavily dependent on weather conditions. Cloud cover or poor weather can mean no lights, regardless of how promising the forecast looks. That said, the flexibility and the small group size make it a more intimate and personalized experience, which many travelers appreciate, especially when compared to larger, more generic options.

This tour generally suits travelers who are willing to stay up late and are interested in a guided, weather-aware approach to seeing the lights — those who appreciate expert storytelling and a chance to avoid the crowds. Families with older children or groups of friends looking for a memorable night out in Iceland will also find it well-suited to their needs.

Key Points

• Maximized chances of seeing the northern lights thanks to an experienced guide who chooses locations based on weather and aurora forecasts.
• Small group size (up to 19 travelers) fosters a more personal experience and less crowded viewing.
• Flexible location choices increase your odds, as the guide can adapt to changing weather conditions.
• Join again for free if the lights don’t appear on your first night—great for peace of mind.
• Tour is weather-dependent, so clear skies are essential, but the guide’s expertise helps make the most of whatever conditions you get.
• Price point (~$111) offers good value for a guided experience with a high chance of witnessing this natural spectacle.

The Experience in Detail

Now, let’s walk through what you can expect from this 3-hour adventure starting at the BSI Bus Terminal in Reykjavik. The tour departs at 9:30 pm, a perfect late-night start to amplify your chances of seeing those shimmering lights. The actual locations visited vary from night to night, based entirely on forecast accuracy and real-time weather conditions—this means your guide is actively working to find the best spot.

Transportation is by comfortable bus, equipped with WiFi, so you can share your photos or simply relax during the drive. The guide is a professional local, who not only navigates the weather but also offers insights about the auroras, Icelandic culture, or whatever sparks your curiosity. Several reviews have praised guides like Sol and Kalli for their helpfulness and patience, particularly when it comes to giving everyone time to take photos or simply enjoy the phenomenon.

The locations are carefully chosen to be away from city lights, increasing the visibility of the auroras. One reviewer, Arelis, shared that their guide took them to a remote spot where they had the entire sky to themselves, which made the experience truly breathtaking. Several travelers have noted how the guide’s expertise helped them spot the lights quickly once they appeared, which can be challenging given how faint or fleeting the auroras sometimes are.

Lighting conditions are crucial. If the sky is cloudy, the guide might move on to another spot or even reschedule, as noted by a reviewer who encountered cloudy skies but appreciated the effort to find clearer skies. It’s important to remember that the tour is weather-dependent, but the flexibility is designed to give you the best shot possible.

What about the cost? At $111 per person, this tour offers a fair value for a guided experience that can make or break your chances of seeing the lights. Compare this to the cost of self-guided trips or waiting around hoping for clear skies—here, you’re paying for expertise, transportation, and a better shot at witnessing one of nature’s most incredible displays.

Reviews reveal that many guests have loved the experience, calling it “spectacular,” “breathtaking,” and “a magical spectacle.” One guest, Paul, called the guide brilliant and said it was a fantastic experience they’d never forget. Others appreciated how the guide let them take extra time for photos and explained physical phenomena, adding educational value to the trip.

On the flip side, a few reviews highlight potential downsides. One traveler experienced a last-minute cancellation despite being ready at the departure point, which is tough but is generally covered by the tour’s free cancellation policy if done within 24 hours. Others noted that the conditions on some nights might not be ideal, and patience is key.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour provides WiFi onboard, bus fare, and an expert guide, all of which help create a more comfortable and informed experience. Notably, it’s a carbon-neutral tour thanks to cooperation with Vaxa Technologies, adding an environmentally friendly touch.

However, food and drinks are not included, so you might want to bring some snacks or warm drinks to stay comfortable during the outing. Since the tour is only about 3 hours, it’s manageable for most travelers, but be prepared for potentially chilly or windy conditions—dress warmly.

Practical Aspects and Tips

• Meeting point is at the BSI Bus Terminal in Reykjavik, very accessible via public transport.
• Tour operates most nights, but weather is the wildcard. Keep an eye on forecasts.
• Group size maxes out at 19 travelers, which keeps the experience personal but social.
• Booking in advance is recommended, with most people reserving about 46 days ahead, reflecting high demand.
• Join again for free if the lights don’t appear, giving you a second shot—and peace of mind.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a guided, flexible experience with the best chance of seeing the northern lights without stress. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable with a late-night outing and appreciate the expertise of guides who know how to interpret weather conditions.

Families with older children might enjoy it, especially those interested in science or night-time adventures. Since the experience is weather-dependent, it might not be suitable if you’re searching for a guaranteed sighting or traveling during very poor weather periods.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for families?
While the tour isn’t explicitly marketed as family-friendly, older children and teens who can stay up late and tolerate cold may enjoy it. The focus is on viewing the auroras in a relaxed, small group setting.

What happens if the northern lights don’t appear?
You can join the tour again on another night at no extra charge, which helps mitigate disappointment if weather conditions aren’t ideal.

How do the guides choose the locations?
Locations vary daily depending on weather and aurora forecasts. The guides aim to take you to the most promising spots to increase your chances of seeing the lights.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the bus is modern and equipped with WiFi. It’s a cozy way to travel between sites, especially late at night.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layers, including hats, gloves, and sturdy shoes. It can get quite cold outdoors at night, even in summer.

Can I take photos?
Absolutely—guides are often patient and will give you time to capture the lights. Bring your camera and tripod if you have one, as long exposures are key to good photos.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts roughly 3 hours, departing at 9:30 pm, making it a manageable evening activity.

Are food and drinks included?
No, these are not included, so plan to bring something to stay comfortable during your outing.

Wrapping It Up

This small-group northern lights tour from Reykjavik offers a balanced mix of expert guidance, flexible location choices, and a genuine shot at witnessing Iceland’s iconic auroras. For those willing to stay up late and keep a weather eye on forecasts, this tour provides a solid chance to make unforgettable memories under the night sky.

While weather conditions can be unpredictable and cancellations are always a possibility, the option to rejoin on another night makes this a less risky choice. The small group size and knowledgeable guides help create a more intimate and educational experience, which is particularly valuable when chasing such a fleeting natural spectacle.

If you value personalized attention, expert advice, and an environmentally conscious approach, this tour ticks many boxes. Just remember to come prepared for cold nights, keep your expectations flexible, and enjoy the anticipation of possibly seeing one of the most beautiful sights nature has to offer.