Reykjavik: Northern Lights Tour with Private Photographer

Planning a trip to Iceland and eager to see the Northern Lights? This particular tour caught our eye because it promises a small group experience, professional photography, and some thoughtful extras like warm jumpsuits and local snacks. While it’s not the cheapest option out there, it seems tailored for those who want a comfortable, intimate, and photo-friendly outing. Here’s the full scoop.

We love that this tour is run by Ultimate Iceland / Aurora Experts, which has been recognized with awards like the Travelers Choice & Best of the Best for its top overall experiences. The fact that they offer unlimited professional photos is a big plus for anyone wanting quality memories without the hassle of taking their own shots. Plus, the inclusion of warm jumpsuits and outdoor chairs** shows they’ve thought about comfort in the often cold Icelandic winter — a real boon if you’re sensitive to the chill.

However, a potential consideration is the cost—at $221 per person, it’s on the higher side, especially when you factor in the unpredictable nature of the Northern Lights. It’s also worth noting that viewing the Aurora is never guaranteed, so patience and a bit of luck come into play. That said, the company’s meticulous use of advanced weather and aurora forecasts might boost your chances.

This tour seems best suited for travelers who want a more luxurious, well-organized experience with a focus on photography, comfort, and local treats. If you’re traveling with someone who appreciates quality photos and a cozy setup, this could be a great pick. But if you’re after a budget-friendly, high-adventure chase, you might want to explore other options.

Key Points

• Focused on comfort and quality: Warm jumpsuits, outdoor chairs, and professional photos make a difference.
• Small group size: Max 18 passengers ensures a more intimate experience.
• Highly rated for Aurora sightings: 93% sighting rate, backed by sophisticated forecasting.
• Includes traditional Icelandic snacks: Dried fish, cinnamon rolls, hot cocoa, and Icelandic vodka.
• Unlimited re-tries: In case of poor weather, you get to rebook without extra cost.
• Pickup from Reykjavik: Convenient hotel or cruise port pickup makes logistics easier.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Reykjavik Northern Lights Tour

This isn’t just a quick chase after the lights; it’s a carefully curated experience blending comfort, expertise, and local flavor. The tour is about 5 hours long, with flexible starting times depending on availability. You’ll meet your guide, Heimir, who’s recognized for his skills as one of Iceland’s best Northern Lights photographers. His role is not just to help capture stunning images but to ensure everyone leaves with a memory they’ll cherish.

The Itinerary Breakdown

While the tour’s exact locations aren’t detailed in the description, it’s safe to assume you’re taken away from Reykjavik’s light pollution to spots where the aurora can be best viewed. The company emphasizes avoiding city lights, so you’ll be outdoors in open spaces, wrapped in their warm jumpsuits.

The Comfort Factors

What sets this tour apart is the attention to comfort. Unlike many Northern Lights excursions that involve standing around cold bus stops, here you’ll have outdoor chairs to sit on and warm jumpsuits to keep the chill at bay. This extra consideration makes a real difference if you’re sensitive to cold or traveling with someone who prefers a cozy experience.

Photography and Learning

Heimir, the guide and professional photographer, offers unlimited photos during the tour. You’ll have access to extra camera tripods, and assistance with camera settings, ensuring everyone can get their perfect shot. This service is particularly appealing if you want high-quality images of the lights without fussing with your camera in the cold.

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Food and Drinks

Indulgence in traditional Icelandic snacks is a highlight. Expect dried fish, cinnamon rolls, pastries, and chocolates, alongside hot cocoa, tea, and even some premium vodka and snaps. These little treats help keep you warm and energized during the chilly wait for the auroras.

The Pros and Cons Based on Reviews

The reviews are generally positive but highlight some key points. The stunning views of the Northern Lights are frequently praised, with many travelers remarking on how beautiful the experience was. One reviewer mentioned, “We loved the way the company prioritized comfort and photos,” which underscores how well thought-out the experience is.

But, not all reviews are glowing. While the sighting rate is 93%, the unpredictable nature of the Aurora still means that sometimes, the lights aren’t visible. The tour’s policy offers unlimited re-runs if the weather doesn’t cooperate, which is reassuring and adds value to the experience.

Some travelers noted that the price might seem steep, but they felt the comfort, expertise, and photo quality justified it. Others mentioned that the small group size made the experience more personal and less rushed.

In terms of logistics, the pickup and drop-off service from Reykjavik hotels or cruise terminals is convenient, and the email confirmation system helps manage expectations about weather conditions.

The Experience on the Night

Imagine standing under a starry sky, wrapped in a warm jumpsuit, sitting comfortably in an outdoor chair, with a hot drink in hand. Your guide is explaining the science behind the aurora, while also helping you set up your camera for that perfect shot. Meanwhile, the company’s satellite-weather forecasts are being checked in real time to maximize your chances of seeing the lights.

If lucky, you’ll witness the shimmering curtains of green, purple, or even red dancing overhead. Even if the lights don’t appear, you’ll still leave with a collection of high-quality photos, snacks to fuel your patience, and the warm glow of the Icelandic winter experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comfortable, photo-rich experience with a smaller group. It’s especially suited for those who value expert guidance and professional photos. If you’re traveling with someone who appreciates cozy setups, refreshments, and a bit of luxury, this fits the bill.

If, on the other hand, you’re more budget-conscious or prefer a more adventurous, less structured chase, you might find other tours more appealing. But for those who want a well-organized, comfortable Northern Lights experience with plenty of opportunities for photos and local snacks, this tour is a solid choice.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour isn’t recommended for children under 5 years old, mainly because of the outdoor setting and cold temperatures.

What should I bring?
Bring warm clothing, a hat, hiking shoes, and gloves. The outdoor nature of the tour means dressing in layers is essential.

Can I cancel if the weather looks bad?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The company also offers unlimited re-tries if the lights are not visible, valid for two years.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 5 hours, with flexible starting times depending on availability.

What’s included in the price?
You get a professional photographer, guide, photos from the tour, warm jumpsuits, traditional snacks, hot cocoa, premium vodka, tripods, camera help, and WiFi on board.

Will I get to keep the photos?
Yes, the tour provides an unlimited number of professional photos, which you can download or keep.

How does the company improve my chances of seeing the lights?
They use advanced weather, cloud, and aurora forecasts, backed by satellite imagery. If the weather prevents viewing, they offer free re-scheduling.

Is pickup provided?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included from hotels, larger guest houses, and cruise ship terminals in Reykjavik, though some city center restrictions apply.

Final Thoughts

This Reykjavik Northern Lights tour offers a mix of comfort, expertise, and local flavor that many travelers will appreciate. The focus on small groups, professional photography, and cozy amenities makes it stand out among many aurora-chasing options. The stunning views and well-planned logistics could turn a regular winter night into a treasured memory.

If you’re after a more luxurious, personalized experience and don’t want to worry about the weather or your camera, this tour might be just what you need. Its higher price tag reflects the attention to detail and added comforts, making it worthwhile for those who want quality over quantity.

Remember, the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, and no tour can guarantee their appearance. But with this company’s careful planning and re-scheduling policy, your chances are as good as they get in Iceland.

Happy aurora hunting!

You can check availability for your dates here: