Reykjavik: Northern Lights with Icelandic Treats

If you’re planning to chase the elusive Aurora Borealis during your trip to Iceland, chances are you’ll come across a variety of tour options. One popular choice is the Reykjavik: Northern Lights with Icelandic Treats tour offered by Holiday Tours. While it promises an evening of natural beauty, warm comfort, and local flavors, how well does it really deliver? Let’s unpack what you can expect, what works, and what to be mindful of.

We’ll look at the highlights that make this tour a cozy way to experience the Northern Lights and discuss some of the challenges other travelers have faced. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or someone with a flexible schedule, this experience might be just what you need—if you’re realistic about what a 4-hour tour can offer.

What We Like About This Tour

First off, the scenic drive and prime viewing locations are a major plus. The tour does a good job of taking you out of the city lights to better your chances of spotting the Aurora Borealis, which is key in such a short outing. We also appreciate the warm blankets and hot chocolate—simple touches that make a big difference on a chilly Icelandic night.

Another highlight is the opportunity to try local Icelandic treats, adding a cultural twist to the experience. It’s these little details—like the hot cocoa and pastries—that give the tour a charming, welcoming feel.

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A Potential Drawback

That said, this tour isn’t a guarantee of seeing the Northern Lights. Some reviews have expressed disappointment when the lights don’t appear, which is a common risk with Aurora chases. Plus, the tour’s short duration and the unpredictable nature of the Northern Lights mean you might spend a good chunk of time driving around without a sighting. It’s a gamble worth knowing before you book.

Who Should Consider This?

This tour is well-suited for travelers who want a comfortable, guided experience with some local flavor and aren’t overly concerned if they don’t see the Aurora. It’s ideal if you prefer a laid-back evening with snacks, warmth, and scenic views—rather than an intense, all-night chase.

Key Points

• Comfortable and cozy with blankets and hot chocolate to keep you warm
• Good chance of scenic views and being taken to the best possible viewing spots
• Food and treats add a cultural touch to the experience
• Sightings can’t be guaranteed, so manage expectations accordingly
• Suitable for those who prefer a relaxed pace over long hours outside
• Not ideal for children under 5 or wheelchair users

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

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The Pickup and Journey

The tour begins in Reykjavik, with pickup times between 8:00 PM and 8:30 PM. Be ready on time—especially since pickup locations may vary due to downtown traffic restrictions. The initial 30-minute drive takes you out of the city, setting the stage for a more optimal Aurora viewing environment.

Traveling in a minibus, you’ll head towards designated scenic spots, with the guide sharing brief safety instructions and setting expectations. The overall journey lasts about three hours, during which you’ll enjoy the Icelandic countryside’s calm and quiet. The scenic drive itself is an integral part of the experience, offering glimpses of Iceland’s dark, open landscapes—perfect for Aurora hunting.

The Viewing Spot

Once at the chosen viewpoint, the main event begins. The guide will help you set up your camera to catch the Northern Lights, with many offering photo assistance—something appreciated by travelers eager to capture this fleeting phenomenon. Be sure to keep your camera ready and warm clothing handy.

This stop isn’t just about the lights; it’s about enjoying the natural beauty of Iceland’s night sky. You’ll be wrapped in warm blankets and sipping hot chocolate, which, as one review put it, was a highlight even when the lights didn’t appear. If luck is on your side, you’ll witness the green ribbons swirling overhead—an unforgettable sight.

The Icelandic Treats

Along With the warm drinks, you’ll get a chance to sample some traditional pastry. This small gesture adds a local touch to the outing and makes the experience more memorable. It’s a cozy pairing—sweet treats and hot chocolate under the dark Icelandic sky.

The Return and Timing

After about three hours outside, you’ll head back to Reykjavik, typically arriving around midnight or later. Some reviews highlight that the guide extended the tour without notice, leading to late returns and tired travelers, especially those with early next-day plans. If you’re sensitive to late nights, keep this in mind.

What Travelers Say

Reviews paint a mixed picture, which is common for Aurora tours. One traveler from Denmark called it a “fantastic guide,” noting that they saw some lights and had a “perfect” experience. Conversely, a UK visitor expressed disappointment after spending hours driving around with a less-than-ideal chance of seeing the Aurora, criticizing the extension of the tour and uncomfortable minibus conditions.

Another review from Germany described a frustrating experience where the tour was canceled without notice, but it’s worth mentioning that the provider fully refunded the full amount. Many travelers, however, appreciated the knowledgeable guides and the effort to find a good viewing spot, even if luck didn’t always favor them.

The Challenge of Aurora Sightings

Remember, Aurora Borealis is a natural phenomenon, so sightings are never guaranteed. Weather conditions, cloud cover, and solar activity all play crucial roles. As one reviewer noted, “In case the lights aren’t visible, you can rebook another night,” but no refunds are provided if the lights don’t appear on your scheduled night.

Comfort and Safety

Some reviews mention that the minibus can be uncomfortable, especially on off-road tracks. Also, there are concerns about safety when the guide nearly veers off the road while checking their phone or looking at the sky. While these are isolated comments, they serve as a reminder to stay alert and comfortable with the safety standards of the provider.

The Practicalities

Duration and Timing

At just 4 hours, this is a relatively short outing, making it suitable for those with tight schedules or who prefer an evening activity. Pickup occurs around 8:00 PM, and the return is usually late, so plan your next day accordingly.

Cost and Value

While the exact price isn’t specified here, reviews suggest that you’re paying for the chance to see the Aurora, the scenic drive, and cozy treats. The value depends on your expectations—if you’re after guaranteed sightings, this might be less ideal. But for a relaxed, comfortable outing with Icelandic touches, it offers a good balance.

The Bottom Line

This tour offers a comfortable way to experience the Northern Lights without venturing into the cold alone or staying out all night. The comforting blankets, hot chocolate, and local pastries make it a cozy choice, especially if you’re sensitive to the cold or traveling with a partner who values comfort.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that Aurora sightings are never guaranteed. The short duration and unpredictable weather mean you’re taking a bit of a chance, and some travelers have been disappointed when the lights don’t cooperate. Still, the scenic drive and effort to find the best viewing spots make it a worthwhile experience for those who want a relaxed, guided evening.

If you’re looking for a low-stress, scenic, and culturally enriching way to spend an evening in Reykjavik during Aurora season, this tour could be a nice pick. Just go with realistic expectations and enjoy the beauty of Iceland’s night sky—whether or not the lights make an appearance.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 5 years old, likely due to the late hours and cold conditions.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, gloves, and a camera are recommended to make the most of the experience.

Will I see the Northern Lights?
Sightings depend on weather and solar activity, so they can’t be guaranteed. The guide will do their best to find the best viewing spot.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 4 hours, including pickup, travel, viewing, and return.

What happens if the tour is canceled due to weather?
The provider will either reschedule for another day or issue a full refund if the tour cannot operate at all.

Is food included?
Yes, you’ll enjoy hot chocolate and traditional Icelandic pastries as part of the experience.

Is the vehicle comfortable?
Some reviews mention that the minibus can be uncomfortable, especially on off-road tracks.

Are the guides helpful with photography?
Yes, guides are usually happy to assist with taking photos of the Northern Lights.

Can I rebook if I don’t see the lights?
Yes, you can rebook for another night, but refunds are not offered if the lights are not visible.

Do I need to reserve in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended, and you can reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility.

In the end, this tour offers a relaxed, scenic, and cozy way to try and catch the Northern Lights. With warm blankets, local treats, and a knowledgeable guide, it’s a memorable experience—if luck is on your side. For those seeking a laid-back evening in Iceland’s dark skies, it’s worth considering. Just keep expectations realistic and enjoy the journey—whether or not the aurora makes an appearance.

You can check availability for your dates here: