Northern Lights Tours Reykjavik
Chase the magical Aurora Borealis on unforgettable tours from Reykjavik, Iceland. Experience nature's most spectacular light show.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Darkest skies, highest solar activity
Northern Lights Tours Reykjavik
Best Time
Darkest skies, highest solar activity
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Chase the magical Aurora Borealis on unforgettable tours from Reykjavik, Iceland. Experience nature's most spectacular light show.
"The Northern Lights were spectacular - they alone were worth the trip to Iceland."
🎯 Book Tours with Free Re-tries
Many tours offer a free second chance if you don't see the lights, maximizing your aurora hunting success!
🚗 Consider Renting a Car
Explore darker skies outside Reykjavik independently for a more flexible aurora chase.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Mesmerizing Aurora Borealis
Witness nature's most breathtaking light show as vibrant colors dance across the Arctic sky. A truly unforgettable spectacle.
+1Small Group Minibus Tours
Chase the aurora in intimate groups, offering a more personalized and less crowded experience.
+1
Super Jeep Adventures
Embark on an off-road journey to remote locations for prime aurora viewing, adding an element of adventure.
Photography-Focused Tours
Learn tips and tricks from guides to capture stunning photos of the Northern Lights.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Aurora Hunting
Beyond Reykjavik: Explore for Dark Skies
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tours with Free Re-tries
Many tours offer a free second chance if you don't see the lights, maximizing your aurora hunting success!
🚗 Consider Renting a Car
Explore darker skies outside Reykjavik independently for a more flexible aurora chase.
🧥 Dress Warmly!
Icelandic nights are cold. Layer up with thermal wear, hats, and gloves for comfort.
📸 Bring Your Camera
Capture the magic! Ensure your camera settings are optimized for low light and long exposures.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tours with Free Re-tries
Many tours offer a free second chance if you don't see the lights, maximizing your aurora hunting success!
🚗 Consider Renting a Car
Explore darker skies outside Reykjavik independently for a more flexible aurora chase.
🧥 Dress Warmly!
Icelandic nights are cold. Layer up with thermal wear, hats, and gloves for comfort.
📸 Bring Your Camera
Capture the magic! Ensure your camera settings are optimized for low light and long exposures.
📱 Download Aurora Apps
Track aurora forecasts and cloud cover to increase your chances of a sighting.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Travelers consistently praise the awe-inspiring beauty of the Northern Lights, with many describing the experience as 'spectacular' and 'unforgettable.' Guides are frequently highlighted for their knowledge, humor, and ability to enhance the adventure. While most experiences are overwhelmingly positive, some visitors have noted occasional issues with tour organization or communication.
"We had James as our guide and absolutely loved the experience. He’s a truly likeable person and an excellent mountain guide. He made the hike both challenging and thoroughly enjoyable, and even kindly offered to take some fantastic photos for us. We couldn’t recommend him more highly."
Marimamil
"The Golden Circle tour including the Secret Lagoon was excellent, full of amazing sights and experiences. Everything ran smoothly helped by a very knowledgeable guide. A national park with time for a walk, an amazing waterfall, the geysers and to finish a soak in a thermal pool. Great stuff"
Jim Wren
"March 2025 - We had a wonderful time on our 4 day Golden Circle Tour with Glacier and Volcano Hikes. All of our guides were very knowledgeable and clearly love what they do. The Northern Lights were spectacular - they alone were worth the trip to Iceland. The tour was easy to book with Arctic Adventures. We had plenty of time to explore the various sites and take photos. Breakfast was included at the hotel each morning and lunch/dinner was on our own. We were able to pick up lunch from convenience stores and cafes each day. Dinner was at the hotel restaurant each night. Our tour group was 14 people on a mini bus. We met great people from all over the world. It truly was the trip of a lifetime."
Liz Bustamante
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Many Northern Lights tours depart directly from Reykjavik, offering convenient pick-up services. For independent viewing, consider renting a car to drive to darker areas outside the city, such as Öskjuhlíð hill or areas 15 minutes from the city center.
While most Northern Lights tours are private or organized bus/minibus services, some companies offer hotel pick-ups, making public transport to the tour meeting point unnecessary. Check with your tour operator for specific arrangements.
While some tours stay closer to the city, venturing at least 15-30 minutes outside Reykjavik significantly improves your chances of escaping light pollution and seeing a clearer aurora display.
Yes, if you have a rental car and are willing to drive to darker locations away from city lights. Öskjuhlíð hill is a popular, accessible spot near Reykjavik.
Small group minibus tours and Super Jeep adventures offer excellent ways to chase the aurora, often taking you to more remote and optimal viewing locations.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Prices vary, but expect to pay around €49-€61 for standard bus tours, with premium and Super Jeep options costing more. Some tours offer discounts with codes.
Yes, many reputable tour operators, like those mentioned on Instagram, offer a free re-try on another night if you don't witness the Northern Lights on your initial tour.
It's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak season (winter). Booking early ensures availability and allows you to secure preferred tour times or types.
Yes, some tour operators offer discount codes, often promoted by influencers or during specific promotional periods. Keep an eye out for these when booking.
Most tours include transportation from Reykjavik, guidance from an expert aurora hunter, and sometimes hot drinks. Photography tours may offer specific guidance.
📸 📸 Photography
Use a wide-angle lens, a tripod, and manual settings. Aim for a high ISO (e.g., 1600-3200), a wide aperture (f/2.8 or lower), and a shutter speed of 10-25 seconds. Experimentation is key!
Modern smartphones with good low-light capabilities can capture decent aurora photos, especially with night mode or manual settings. However, a dedicated camera with manual controls will yield superior results.
Some tours are specifically designed for photography, with guides offering tips and assistance. Even on general tours, guides can often provide basic advice.
Essential gear includes a DSLR or mirrorless camera, a wide-angle lens, a sturdy tripod, extra batteries (cold drains them quickly), and a remote shutter release.
Look for locations with minimal light pollution, such as Öskjuhlíð hill, or drive further out to more remote areas. Coastal spots can also offer dramatic foregrounds.
ℹ️ 💡 General Tips
The prime season for Northern Lights in Iceland is from September to April, when the nights are long and dark. Winter months often have the highest solar activity.
Dress in warm layers: thermal base layers, a fleece or wool mid-layer, and a waterproof/windproof outer shell. Don't forget a warm hat, gloves, and insulated boots.
Most Northern Lights tours from Reykjavik last between 3 to 5 hours, depending on the tour type and how long it takes to find the aurora.
It's difficult to see a strong aurora display directly from Reykjavik due to light pollution. You'll need to travel a short distance outside the city for optimal viewing.
Many tour operators offer a complimentary re-booking for another tour if the aurora is not visible on your scheduled night, so check the tour's policy.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If your children are sensitive to late nights, consider a DIY approach where you can return to your accommodation when needed. Alternatively, look for tours that depart slightly earlier or have a shorter duration. The wonder of the aurora is truly captivating for all ages!
💰 Budget Travelers
For the most budget-conscious, consider renting a car and driving to accessible, free viewing spots like Öskjuhlíð hill. This requires more planning but can save significantly on tour costs. Always compare prices and what's included before booking.
+1📸 Photography Enthusiasts
If you're going solo, invest in a good tripod and a camera with manual controls. Research the best locations away from light pollution and be prepared for cold, long nights. Patience and practice are key to capturing stunning aurora shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Aurora Borealis
+1For the best chances of witnessing this celestial dance, plan your visit during the aurora season, which typically runs from September to April. During these months, the nights are long and dark enough to observe the aurora. Many travelers find that booking tours during periods of predicted high solar activity can significantly increase their chances of a memorable sighting.
+1While the aurora is a natural wonder, its appearance is never guaranteed. Factors like cloud cover and light pollution can obscure the view. Therefore, choosing tours that offer flexibility, such as free re-tries if the aurora isn't visible, is a wise strategy for any aurora hunter.
Choosing Your Northern Lights Tour from Reykjavik
+1For the adventurous, Super Jeep tours venture off-road to reach more remote and pristine locations, offering a unique way to chase the aurora. If photography is your passion, consider photography-focused tours where guides share expert tips on capturing the best shots of the aurora. Some operators also offer evening cruises under the stars, combining a boat trip with aurora hunting.
When selecting a tour, look for operators that emphasize expert local guides who know the best aurora-predicting locations and conditions. Always check the tour's policy on re-tries if the aurora is not visible, as this can be a crucial factor in ensuring you get to experience the magic.
+1DIY Aurora Hunting: Beyond the Tour Bus
Popular spots accessible by car include Öskjuhlíð hill, a readily available location from downtown Reykjavik, and other areas just a short drive from the city center that offer significantly less light pollution. These self-guided excursions allow for more flexibility in timing and the ability to stay out longer if the aurora is particularly active.
+1Remember that even when driving yourself, checking the aurora forecast and cloud cover predictions is essential. Apps and websites dedicated to aurora tracking can be invaluable tools for planning your DIY aurora hunt.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit