5-Days Land of Northern Lights Tour from Reykjavík

Discover Iceland in 5 Days: Land of Glaciers, Waterfalls, and the Northern Lights

Imagine a trip packed with stunning landscapes, geothermal thrills, and the elusive Northern Lights, all while staying comfortable and well-fed. For $1,249.57 per person, this 5-day tour from Reykjavík takes you through some of Iceland’s most iconic sights, including the Blue Lagoon, waterfalls, geysers, glaciers, and charming villages. Led by experienced guides like Andreas and Simone, the journey balances sightseeing with genuine local insights, making the experience both fun and educational.

What we love about this tour is how it combines visual wonders with engaging storytelling—from crossing continental plates at Reykjanes to soaking in geothermal waters. Plus, the chance to see the Northern Lights over South Iceland adds a magical touch. On the downside, some reviews mention that the schedule can feel a bit rushed, especially if you’re hoping for a leisurely pace. Still, it’s perfect for travelers eager to see many highlights in a short time without the hassle of driving themselves.

This tour suits those who want a well-organized adventure with knowledgeable guides, and who appreciate the value of included hot springs, accommodations, and expert-led searches for the aurora borealis. If you’re keen on experiencing Iceland’s natural beauty, but don’t want to self-drive or plan every detail, this package offers a good balance of comfort, education, and adventure.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Iceland Experience: Covers top sights like the Blue Lagoon, waterfalls, geysers, glaciers, and more.
• Northern Lights Included: Two evenings dedicated to hunting the Aurora, with talks and guided searches.
• Comfort and Convenience: Four nights’ accommodation, breakfast, and all transportation included.
• Expert Guides and Local Insights: Guides like Andreas and Simone bring enthusiasm and knowledge, enhancing every stop.
• Active Options: Optional glacier hikes allow hands-on exploration of ice formations.
• Value for Money: For just over $1,200, you get a curated, all-inclusive journey with many memorable stops.

In-Depth Review: The Real Iceland Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect Day by Day

Day 1: Reykjavik
Your adventure begins with some free time in Iceland’s lively capital. Whether you want to relax at your hotel or explore on your own, the city’s compact streets are a delight. Many travelers mention how conveniently located the hotel is for walking to cafes, museums, and the harbour. It’s a relaxed start that sets the tone for the trip.

Day 2: Reykjanes Peninsula & Blue Lagoon
The highlight here is crossing the American and Eurasian continental plates via a small bridge—something you won’t see many places. The rugged lava fields, steaming fumaroles, and hot springs give a raw sense of Iceland’s volcanic activity. We loved the way guides explain the geology, making these sights much more meaningful.

The Blue Lagoon is a must-see, a world-famous geothermal spa where you can soak in milky blue waters amid black lava rocks. Many reviews praise this stop as a “geothermal oasis,” perfect for relaxing after travel. Towel use is included, and the experience is often described as a “highlight” of the trip.

Day 3: Waterfalls, Glacier, and South Coast
Today starts with Seljalandsfoss, a waterfall you can walk behind—an experience that’s both exhilarating and misty. The nearby Skógafoss is a towering 60-meter cascade, renowned for its power and the rainbow often visible in its spray. We liked the storytelling about these falls, which makes the sights even more impressive.

Optional glacier hikes at Solheimajokull are available, giving you a chance to step onto actual ice and explore ice sculptures, deep crevasses, and water cauldrons. Guides teach you how to use crampons and ice axes, making it accessible for ages 10 and up. Reviews mention the glacier walk as “fun and safe,” though it’s an optional activity.

The day ends with a walk along Reynisfjara’s black sand beach, famous for its basalt columns and caves, then a quick stop in Vík, a charming village with breathtaking coastal views. Many travelers rave about the dramatic volcanic landscape here.

Day 4: Geysers, Gullfoss, and Þingvellir
The “Golden Circle” highlights! You’ll visit Fridheimar, a geothermal greenhouse where you can learn about Icelandic horses, adding a farm-fresh feel to the trip. Next is Geysir, the original geyser site, with Strokkur erupting roughly every 10 minutes—an explosion of hot water that’s mesmerizing.

Gullfoss, or the “Golden Falls,” is a powerful double cascade that often produces rainbows in its spray, especially on sunny days. Then, Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO site, offers geological and historical insights, being home to Iceland’s ancient parliament. Many guests say walking through Þingvellir feels like stepping into Iceland’s past.

Day 5: Return to Reykjavík
The tour ends with a leisurely morning or some free time. Many travelers find this a perfect way to soak in Reykjavik’s vibe before heading home.

How the Tours Make Your Life Easier (and Better)

Transportation: The tour uses a comfortable, air-conditioned bus with WiFi, making long days less tiring. The group sizes are kept manageable (up to 40), so you’re not lost in a crowd.

Guides: Guides like Andreas and Simone receive praise for their knowledge, enthusiasm, and storytelling. They make the journey engaging without ever feeling rushed or overly scripted. Many reviews mention how guides share local stories and geology insights that you can’t get on your own.

Inclusions: Four nights’ accommodation with breakfast, Blue Lagoon entry, and transfers are included. The Northern Lights program during two nights combines lectures, presentations, and guided searches—boosting your chances of witnessing the aurora borealis, a natural phenomenon that remains unpredictable but exciting.

Extras: Optional glacier hikes are available for those wanting hands-on ice exploration. The tour provides gear like crampons and ice axes, ensuring safety and accessibility.

The Value of the Tour: Is It Worth It?

For just over $1,200, you get a package that includes many of Iceland’s top sights, transportation, guiding, and some activities. The reviews consistently say the tour offers “good value for money,” especially considering the number of sites visited and the comfort provided.

While the schedule is busy—some mention it’s “too fast”—it’s designed for travelers who want a taste of everything without the hassle of planning each stop. If you prefer a relaxed, unhurried pace or want more time at each spot, this might feel a bit rushed. But if your goal is to cover maximum ground and maximize your Iceland experience, this tour hits the mark.

The Real Takeaways

• Guide Expertise Matters: Guides like Simone and Andreas bring energy, knowledge, and storytelling that elevate the experience.
• Natural Wonders Abound: From waterfalls to geysers, glaciers to volcanic beaches, this tour showcases Iceland’s geological drama.
• Northern Lights: Two dedicated evenings increase your odds of catching this elusive spectacle, and the programs enhance your understanding.
• Comfort & Convenience: Hotel stays with breakfast, WiFi-enabled buses, and included transfers make logistics a breeze.
• Active & Inclusive: Optional glacier walks add an adventurous element without requiring technical skills.
• Authentic Experiences: Visits to geothermal greenhouses and folk museums provide a taste of Icelandic life beyond the scenery.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive Iceland experience in a short timeframe. If your main goal is to see multiple iconic sights with knowledgeable guides, this delivers. It’s especially valuable if you’re keen on Northern Lights hunting and prefer comfort, with included breakfasts and relaxing soak-in-the-heat at the Blue Lagoon.

It’s also well-suited for those who enjoy guided storytelling rather than self-driving, as many reviews highlight the guides’ local expertise. While the schedule can be tight, it rewards those eager to maximize sightseeing without sacrificing comfort or safety.

If you’re traveling with family or friends and want to avoid logistical stress, this tour offers a well-organized, engaging way to explore Iceland’s highlights. But if you cherish a slower pace or more free time, you might prefer a longer or more relaxed itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is transportation included throughout the tour?
Yes, the tour uses an air-conditioned bus with WiFi for all scheduled sightseeing days, providing comfortable transit between destinations.

What are the accommodation arrangements?
You’ll stay for four nights in budget hotels with private showers and breakfast included. The hotel’s central location in Reykjavík makes it easy to explore on your own.

Can I participate in glacier hikes?
Yes, glacier walks are optional and approximately 3 hours long. They are suitable for ages 10 and up, with gear provided, and require warm clothing, rain gear, and hiking boots.

What if I don’t see the Northern Lights?
The tour offers Northern Lights programs on two evenings with lectures and guided searches. While sightings depend on weather and solar activity, the tour’s schedule increases your chances.

Are all major sights covered?
Most of Iceland’s major natural attractions are included—waterfalls, geysers, glaciers, beaches, and Þingvellir National Park. Some stops like the glacier hike are optional.

What is the best time to book this tour?
Most travelers book about 104 days in advance, especially in winter when the Northern Lights are more active. The tour is designed to optimize your chances of seeing the aurora in South Iceland.

Final Thoughts

This 5-day Iceland trip blends the country’s best-known natural wonders with expert guides, comfort, and the thrill of chasing the Northern Lights. You’ll visit famous waterfalls, geothermal fields, volcanic beaches, and even enjoy a rejuvenating soak in the Blue Lagoon. The itinerary’s pace is brisk, but it’s perfect for those wanting to see a lot in a short time.

Guides like Simone and Andreas earn high praise for their enthusiasm and knowledge, which makes every stop more meaningful. The inclusion of hot springs, accommodation, breakfast, and guided Aurora programs makes this a great value, especially for travelers who prefer a worry-free, well-organized adventure.

If you’re after a memorable, bucket-list trip with plenty of Instagram-worthy sights and the hope of witnessing the Northern Lights, this tour will definitely deliver. It’s best suited for those eager to explore Iceland’s highlights without the hassle of planning, and who enjoy a good mix of activity, comfort, and storytelling.

Ready to see Iceland’s spectacular scenery and chase its northern lights? This tour offers a well-rounded, memorable experience that’s worth considering for your next winter adventure.