Spirit of the Aurora Northern Lights Tour

If you’re dreaming of catching the elusive northern lights in Iceland, this Spirit of the Aurora tour offers an accessible way to try your luck. While we haven’t personally been on this exact tour, we’ve researched it thoroughly and heard from travelers who have, helping us offer a clear picture of what you can expect.

What really draws us to this experience are its professional photography service, which means you’ll have stunning photos to remember your trip, and the cozy touches—cookies, hot chocolate, and blankets—that make waiting in the cold a little more bearable. On the flip side, since aurora sightings are entirely dependent on nature’s mood, there’s no guarantee you’ll see the lights. That said, the tour only runs when conditions are right, which is a big plus for those who want to maximize their chances without risking a wasted evening.

This tour is especially suited for travelers who want a budget-friendly way to chase the northern lights without sacrificing comfort or professional photo memories. If you’re flexible, understand the natural unpredictability of the lights, and value good company and warmth, this could be a solid choice.

Key Points

• Flexible locations mean your group can shift to different spots depending on the weather, increasing your odds.
• Professional photos help you keep stunning memories of the lights (and you!) for years.
• Comfort is a priority with hot chocolate, cookies, and blankets provided.
• Pickup is included, making logistics easier and reducing stress.
• Weather-dependent, so there’s a chance the tour could be canceled if conditions are poor.
• Booking well in advance (about 3 months on average) shows how popular this tour is.

What You Get with the Spirit of the Aurora Tour

This isn’t just your typical bus-and-wait experience. It’s a carefully curated outing that mixes the thrill of aurora chasing with some thoughtful touches. Starting at 8:30 pm from Reykjavik, you’ll be picked up right from your hotel or a nearby bus stop—super convenient if you’re already in the city center.

The tour lasts roughly five hours, which sounds long but actually gives you ample time to chase clear skies and find the best spot for viewing. The itinerary is flexible; instead of sticking to a fixed location, the guide will move depending on cloud cover and weather conditions, with popular spots including Reykjanes Peninsula or Thingvellir National Park. This adaptability can make a real difference, since static routes often mean waiting in less-than-ideal conditions.

The small to medium group size (up to 80 travelers) keeps things manageable and more personal, but not so intimate that you’ll feel lost in the crowd. The focus on safety and comfort is evident: blankets to wrap up in, warm drinks to stave off the cold, and snacks to keep your energy up during your vigil under the stars.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

While the tour’s main goal is aurora viewing, the journey itself is part of the charm. Once you’re picked up, the real fun begins as your guide takes you to different potential viewing spots. The locations vary depending on the cloud cover—your guide is actively checking the weather and adjusting accordingly, which is good news for those hoping to see the lights.

Reykjanes Peninsula might be one of the stops, offering wide-open spaces for optimal viewing, away from city lights. Other possible locations include Thingvellir National Park, known for its stunning scenery and historical significance, which adds a layer of interest to your night out. The stops last about an hour each, giving plenty of time to scan the skies and enjoy the experience without feeling rushed.

During this time, the professional photographer will be setting up shots, capturing you with the aurora if visible. From what travelers share, this is a huge highlight—imagine having high-quality images of yourself and your companions under the dancing lights!

The Warmth Factor: Comfort in Cold Conditions

One of the biggest concerns with northern lights tours in winter is staying warm. This tour scores points here. Cookies, hot chocolate, snacks, and blankets are included, and these small comforts make a noticeable difference. However, the review from Kasia_P reminds us: “It was really cold so dress accordingly.”

Layering is essential—think thermal underwear, good insulated outerwear, hats, gloves, and warm boots. The tour is run only in good weather conditions, so if the forecast is clear, you’ll be out in the chilly night air, waiting for the sky to put on a show. The blankets and hot drinks are your best friends during this time.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $130 per person, this tour offers an affordable way to experience one of Iceland’s most iconic sights. When you factor in the transportation, the professional photography, and the cozy touches, it’s a decent value—especially considering the difficulty of aurora chasing, which usually involves private guides or more expensive options.

The price also reflects the fact that this is a small group experience, allowing for more personalized attention and better chances to find suitable viewing spots. You won’t get a luxury experience, but for the price and what’s included, many travelers find it worthwhile.

What Do Travelers Say?

Most reviews give this experience a solid 4.6 out of 5. Travelers appreciate the professional photos, noting that they’re a major perk. One reviewer shared, “It was cool that we got to see the aurora lights,” highlighting the excitement and the natural unpredictability. The fact that the tour only runs when conditions are favorable means you aren’t wasting your time standing outside in vain.

However, the cold is a common theme—so don’t underestimate the importance of dressing warmly. A traveler mentioned, “It was really cold so dress accordingly,” which is good advice for anyone planning to stay out for several hours.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re after a cost-effective, well-organized northern lights experience with the bonus of professional photos, this tour could be just what you need. It’s especially suitable for those who don’t mind waiting in the cold and are flexible about the location, trusting the guide to optimize your chances.

The inclusion of hot drinks, snacks, and blankets makes it more comfortable than many similar outings, and the small group size helps keep things personal. Just remember that aurora sightings are never guaranteed because they depend on natural conditions, so if you’re seeking a 100% certainty, this might not be the best choice.

Overall, if you want a relaxed, friendly, and budget-conscious way to chase the northern lights, and you’re okay with some weather dependency, this tour offers genuine value and memorable photo opportunities.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts around 5 hours, giving ample time to find clear skies and watch the aurora.

What is included in the price?
Pickup from your Reykjavik hotel or bus stop, transportation, professional photography, hot chocolate, snacks, and blankets.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance, and if the tour is canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

Where does the tour go?
Stops depend on weather but may include Reykjanes Peninsula, Thingvellir National Park, and other scenic spots suitable for aurora viewing.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but keep in mind the cold temperatures. Dress warmly and consider the comfort of young children in winter conditions.

What is the best time to book?
Most travelers book about 95 days in advance. The tour starts at 8:30 pm, ideal for night sky viewing.

How many people are on the tour?
A maximum of 80 travelers, which balances group size with manageable logistics.

If you’re looking for a practical, enjoyable way to chase the northern lights without breaking the bank, this tour hits many of the right notes—just remember to dress warmly and keep your expectations flexible!