Reykjavik: Aurora Minibus w/ Pro Photos & Free Retry

Reykjavik: Aurora Minibus with Pro Photos & Free Retry offers a uniquely personal approach to chasing the Northern Lights. For $165 per person, over approximately four hours, you’ll join a small group (up to 18 people) led by guides and photographers with decades of experience. The tour begins with convenient hotel pickups across Reykjavik and takes you to strategic spots to maximize your chances of witnessing this elusive natural phenomenon.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the small group size means more personal attention and flexibility to adapt to weather conditions—an important factor since chasing the Aurora is often about patience and luck. Second, the professional-quality photos taken during the night, including fun Viking costume shots, give you lasting memories you’ll cherish long after your trip ends.

One thing to keep in mind is that Aurora sightings are never guaranteed—they depend heavily on the weather and solar activity. The tour’s unlimited free retries are a major plus, giving you multiple chances to see the lights without extra cost. This makes it an ideal choice for travelers who prioritize seeing the Aurora over strict itineraries, and who enjoy a mix of fun activities, local culture, and expert guidance.

If you’re someone who appreciates a well-rounded, relaxed experience with a focus on authentic Icelandic culture, combined with the thrill of chasing the Northern Lights, this tour could be a great fit. It’s especially attractive if you value high-quality photography, engaging guides, and the reassurance of a flexible schedule.

Key Points

• Small group size enhances personalization and access to exclusive spots.
• Professional photography ensures high-quality Aurora shots and fun Viking costumes.
• Free retries provide peace of mind in case the lights don’t appear on your first try.
• Expert guides with decades of experience increase your chances of witnessing the Aurora.
• Fun activities like Viking weapons and outfits keep guests entertained while waiting.
• Weather-dependent experience means patience and flexibility are essential for success.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A closer look at the Reykjavik: Aurora Minibus Tour

Planning a Northern Lights trip can feel like a gamble—clouds, weather, and solar activity all play their parts. But this tour aims to tilt the odds in your favor, blending professional guidance, local knowledge, and a personal touch that many larger, less flexible operators can’t match.

Location and Duration
Starting with pick-up from anywhere in Reykjavik, the tour lasts around four hours, with multiple pickup points for maximum convenience. You’re transported in a cozy, high-spec minibus—small enough to access areas the larger buses can’t reach, and nimble enough to adapt quickly to changing conditions.

What You’ll Do
The itinerary is simple but thoughtfully curated: after pickup, the group heads out to a secret stop (the tour’s highlight), where you’ll hope for the Aurora to dance across the sky. The guide will select a spot based on weather forecasts and recent conditions, often driving far from city lights to increase visibility.

While waiting, the fun begins. You can don authentic Viking costumes sourced at a local museum—an amusing way to make the experience memorable and get some standout photos. Plus, you can handle Viking weapon replicas, adding a playful, cultural element that appeals to history buffs.

Throughout the night, hot chocolate and gingerbread cookies provide warmth and comfort, turning waiting into a cozy social event. The guides are well-versed in Aurora science, so expect interesting stories about Viking connections and the science behind the lights. Many reviews highlight how guides like Tomas, Felix, Kobe, and Jonas are not only knowledgeable but also genuinely enthusiastic—sometimes driving far to find a clear sky when others may give up.

The Quality of Photos
One of the most praised features is the professional photo service. Equipped with high-spec cameras, guides position you for the best shots of yourself and the Aurora, regardless of the darkness. Several reviews mention how stunning the images turn out—some even describe the photos as “stunning” or “amazing,” with guides actively repositioning cameras to capture the perfect shot.

Weather and Aurora Availability
Since the Northern Lights are invisible without clear skies, the guides use their experience to optimize every opportunity. They often find the Aurora even when conditions seem unfavorable. But if the lights don’t appear, the tour offers unlimited free retries, which is a rare and reassuring policy. Reviewers consistently mention how this flexibility adds great value and peace of mind.

The Itinerary in Detail

Pickup and Start
The tour begins with pickup from one of 16 possible convenient locations around Reykjavik, including landmarks like Hallgrimskirkja and the city’s bus terminal. The driver, often Emil or Felix, will call out your name and ensure a smooth start. The group size is capped at 18, ensuring everyone gets attentive service.

The Secret Stop
This is where the magic happens. The guide leads you to a carefully chosen spot—far from city lights, often in open fields or dark patches where the sky is clearer. Several reviews mention that, even on cloudy nights, guides like Tomas and Kobe are able to find openings in the clouds, thanks to their local knowledge and experience.

Activities and Entertainment
Waiting for the Aurora can sometimes test patience. That’s why the tour includes fun activities—playing with Viking costumes, handling replicas of weapons, and taking creative photos. It’s not just about waiting in silence; guides keep the atmosphere lively with jokes, stories, and tips. The gingerbread cookies and hot chocolate are a nice touch, especially in cold weather.

Lighting Up the Night with the Aurora
When the lights finally appear, you’ll see them dance and ripple across the sky, sometimes within minutes of arriving. Guides expertly set exposure settings for the best photos, so don’t worry if your phone isn’t up to the task; the professional shots will impress long after your trip.

Re-Visits and Final Drop-offs
The tour concludes after about four hours, with drop-offs at 16 different locations across Reykjavik. The flexibility to choose your drop-off point makes it easier to plan the rest of your evening or next day.

Authenticity and Experience

What sets this tour apart, according to many reviews, is the genuine enthusiasm of the guides. They’re not just chasing the lights—they’re passionate about sharing their knowledge of Viking history, Icelandic nature, and the science of Aurora Borealis. The personal touch, small group setting, and fun activities create a relaxed, engaging atmosphere that many travelers appreciate.

The Viking costumes and weapon replicas aren’t just gimmicks; they serve as memorable photo props and cultural touchpoints that enrich your experience. Reviewers have been delighted with how these add a playful, authentic dimension to the evening, making it more than just a typical Lights tour.

Weather and Luck
Of course, the Northern Lights depend on conditions outside anyone’s control. Some nights may be cloudy or inactive, and despite the guides’ efforts, the Aurora may not show. That’s why the free retries policy is worth emphasizing—many reviewers highlight how this policy allowed them to see the lights on the second or third attempt, turning what could have been disappointment into a rewarding experience.

Pricing and Value

At $165 per person, this tour offers excellent value for a premium experience. You’re getting guided expertise, high-quality photos, fun cultural activities, and the generosity of unlimited retries—all in a small group setting that maximizes comfort and chances of success.

Compared to larger, less personalized tours, the small group size means a more intimate experience and better access to optimal viewing locations. The professional photography, which many reviews praise, is a significant bonus—these images become lasting keepsakes. Plus, the hot chocolate and gingerbread cookies are simple but thoughtful touches that elevate the evening.

If you’re seeking a more personalized, flexible, and fun Northern Lights experience, this tour is hard to beat. It caters well to those who want more than just a bus ride; it’s about creating memories.

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Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour is especially suited for travelers who value authentic experiences and personal attention. If you enjoy stories about Vikings, cultural elements, or are passionate about photography, you’ll find it particularly rewarding. It’s also a strong choice if you want reassurance—knowing you can rebook without extra cost if conditions aren’t perfect.

However, keep in mind that children under 7 are not recommended, and the success of seeing the Aurora depends on luck and weather conditions. Patience and a flexible attitude will make the experience more enjoyable.

The Sum Up

This Reykjavik: Aurora Minibus tour combines the charm of small-group travel, cultural fun with Viking costumes, and the thrill of trying to catch the Northern Lights—often with stunning results. The professionalism of guides, the high-quality photos, and the flexible retry policy make it stand out among many Aurora tours.

Whether you’re a photography enthusiast eager for fantastic shots, a history buff wanting a cultural twist, or simply someone who dreams of witnessing the Aurora dance in the night sky, this tour offers a well-rounded, engaging experience.

The mix of expert guidance, personalized service, and fun activities makes this a memorable way to enjoy Iceland’s most famous natural spectacle. If you’re after a genuine, value-rich adventure that balances entertainment with authenticity, this tour deserves serious consideration.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, with pickup and drop-off included.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 18 people, ensuring plenty of personal attention and access to exclusive viewing spots.

Is hot chocolate and snacks included?
Yes, hot chocolate and gingerbread cookies are provided to keep you warm and cozy while waiting.

Can I reschedule if I don’t see the Aurora?
Yes, the tour offers unlimited free retries until you see the lights, but there are no refunds if you decide not to rebook.

What should I wear?
Bring warm clothing, as Icelandic nights can be quite cold, especially outside in open fields.

Are Viking costumes and weapons real?
They are sourced at a local museum and are used for fun photo opportunities and culture.

Are children under 7 allowed?
No, this tour is not suitable for children under 7.

How accurate is Aurora forecasting?
Guides use their experience and weather forecasts to locate the best spots, but the Aurora itself can never be guaranteed.

What if the weather is bad?
The guides are skilled at finding clear skies and will drive to locations that maximize your chances. If the Aurora doesn’t appear, you can rejoin the tour at no extra cost.

This tour offers a heartfelt, engaging way to chase one of nature’s most captivating spectacles, with the added bonus of cultural fun, expert guidance, and photos to take home. It’s perfect for anyone eager to combine the thrill of discovery with comfort and authenticity.

You can check availability for your dates here: