Akureyri is a remarkable place for photography. Its stunning landscapes — from snow-covered mountains and waterfalls to the starry arctic sky — make it a natural magnet for shutterbugs. But what truly sets it apart are the unique opportunities to photograph the Aurora Borealis and Iceland’s rugged wilderness. We love the Akureyri: Northern Lights Photography Tour because it combines expert guidance with prime viewing spots, increasing your chances of capturing the elusive Northern Lights. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or just want a few memorable shots, Akureyri offers experiences that turn scenery into art.
If you’re looking for a quick but authentic snapshot of Icelandic nature, the tours listed below cover everything from waterfall visits to riding Icelandic horses, all with photography in mind. Each offers something special, whether it’s the chance to chase the aurora or snap perfect shots of waterfalls and rural landscapes. Read on to find the best fit for your interests and style.
1. Akureyri: Northern Lights Photography Tour
This 3-hour tour out of town is designed for those eager to capture the Northern Lights in all their glory. Starting in the dark winter night, you’ll head into the northeast Icelandic wilderness with a guide who knows how to find clear skies and the best viewpoints. This tour is perfect if you’re serious about photographing the Aurora Borealis, with small group sizes that keep things intimate and flexible.
The experience emphasizes hunting the lights with a professional guide who can help you set your camera settings and compose shots of the vibrant, shifting colors. One of the great features is the opportunity to stargaze under the Arctic sky, away from city lights, which is crucial for good Aurora photos. The reviews highlight how guides often drive to spots with clearer skies, making the experience more reliable — “Hot chocolate and donuts were provided as we watched the northern lights,” one guest shares, which adds a cozy touch to the cold night.
This tour ranks high for its chance to see the Aurora in a small-group setting, increasing your odds of a photo-worthy moment. It’s best suited for travelers who want an immersive, guided night of aurora hunting with a focus on photography. The cost reflects the expert guidance and the prime viewing, making it a solid choice for dedicated photographers or those eager to document the Northern Lights.
Bottom Line: If your primary goal is to photograph the Northern Lights with expert help and personal attention, this tour offers a reliable and memorable experience.
2. Short Riding Tour with Eye-Catching Photos at Waterfall
For a quick but rewarding outdoor adventure, the Short Riding Tour with Waterfall offers a unique way to combine Icelandic culture with scenic photography. Over roughly 30 minutes, you’ll saddle up on a sturdy Icelandic horse and ride to Reykjafoss Waterfall — an impressive cascade that’s perfect for capturing on camera.
What makes this tour stand out is the opportunity to photograph the waterfall’s raw power and the horses’ charming presence in the Icelandic landscape. The horses are described as reliable and strong, willing to carry you through snow, ice, or lush summer grass, making this suitable year-round. Guests rave about the friendliness of the staff and how fun it is to get up close with Icelandic horses, noting this as one of their travel highlights.
This experience is ideal for travelers short on time but looking to add some authentic Icelandic flavor to their photo collection. It’s perfect for animal lovers, photography enthusiasts wanting to capture movement and nature, or families seeking a gentle introduction to Icelandic riding. The value is high considering the brief duration, friendly guides, and scenic backdrop.
Bottom Line: A short, friendly ride that yields excellent photo opportunities of waterfalls and horses, great for families or those with limited time.
3. Northern Lights Photography from Akureyri
At number 3, this Northern Lights Photography from Akureyri tour is another excellent option for Aurora chasers. Starting around 9:00 pm, you’ll leave the city behind and head into the countryside or mountains to escape light pollution, greatly increasing your chances of a spectacular aurora display.
The 3-hour experience is perfect for those who want a dedicated, photo-focused outing. The guide will help with camera settings and composition tips, ensuring you’re ready when the lights appear. The tour’s focus on the best possible viewing conditions makes it a favorite, with reviews praising the knowledgeable guides who were proactive in adjusting plans to optimize lighting conditions.
It’s especially suited for travelers who want a relaxed, focused hunt for the Northern Lights in a small group. The scenery of rural Iceland, combined with the chance to photograph the shimmering sky and distant mountains, makes for stunning images. The tour emphasizes the magic of the night sky, and the guides’ efforts to find clear skies means that even in less-than-ideal weather, you maximize your chance of a good shot.
Bottom Line: Ideal for serious photographers or aurora enthusiasts who want expert help in capturing the lights under ideal conditions.
4. Photography Tour – Northern Light Hunting from Akureyri
This Northern Light Hunting tour is a 2 to 3-hour outing that focuses on the thrill of chasing the Aurora Borealis. Leaving from Akureyri, you’ll take a mini bus into the less light-polluted areas of Eyjafjardarsveit, giving you a good shot at seeing the Northern Lights if the weather cooperates.
The tour’s main feature is the chance to escape city lights quickly, with the guide’s local knowledge helping you find the best spots. The reviews highlight how knowledgeable the guides are, and how lucky visitors have been to witness the Aurora during their short excursions. One traveler shared, “Great guide, who was knowledgeable about the aurora and fun to chat with. We were lucky to see the lights, they were amazing.” The tour’s shorter duration makes it flexible for those with limited time but still eager to capture the night sky.
This tour works well for those who want an action-packed, guided photo adventure with an emphasis on Aurora hunting. It’s less about sightseeing and more about the potential for stunning nighttime photos, especially if the lights come out.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers looking for a quick, guided Aurora chase with a focus on photography.
5. Akureyri: Hunt for the Northern Lights Photography Tour
The Hunt for the Northern Lights offers a 2.5-hour chance to track down the aurora. It’s a budget-friendly option at $132 per person, but with the caveat that the Northern Lights are elusive and weather-dependent. This tour emphasizes stargazing with the added bonus of hoping to catch the Aurora.
The tour involves a drive to rural areas around Lake Mývatn, famous for its impressive scenery. Several reviews mention that weather conditions can significantly affect visibility — “Unfortunately, we didn’t get to see any northern lights due to the weather conditions,” one disappointed traveler notes. However, another reviewer appreciated the guide’s effort: “He explained us everything about the lights and he was helping us with the pictures.”
This tour is best suited for those interested in learning about the Aurora and star constellations, even if the sky doesn’t cooperate. It offers a chance to practice night photography in a scenic setting while hoping for a glimpse of the magical lights.
Bottom Line: A good choice if you’re flexible, want a budget option, and enjoy astrophotography even without seeing the Aurora.
$132 per person
6. Akureyri: Private Photo Tour
For those who want a personalized experience, the Private Photo Tour offers a full day of tailored photography. It’s designed for families or individuals who want someone to help capture their best moments in Iceland’s stunning scenery.
This tour emphasizes a personalized approach, with a local photographer guiding you through scenic spots based on your interests. It’s ideal if you want high-quality photos of specific landmarks or family portraits amidst the Icelandic landscape. The tour is flexible — you can choose the starting time and locations, making it suitable for different schedules and interests.
While specific reviews aren’t provided, the focus on a local photographer means you get expert tips and a relaxed atmosphere, allowing you to focus on capturing the perfect shot. The value here is in the customized experience, perfect for those who want professional-quality images or family portraits.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers seeking a personalized photography experience with expert guidance in Icelandic scenery.
How to Choose Your Photography Adventure in Akureyri
Picking the right tour depends on your interests, budget, and physical comfort. If your goal is to chase the Northern Lights and ensure the best shots, look at Akureyri: Northern Lights Photography Tour or Northern Light Hunting from Akureyri. For a quick, family-friendly experience with Icelandic horses, the Short Riding Tour is ideal.
Those wanting a flexible, private day of photography should consider the Private Photo Tour. Budget travelers might prefer the more affordable Hunt for the Northern Lights, though weather can be unpredictable. And if you’re mainly after scenic shots of waterfalls and nature, the riding tour provides a charming snapshot of Icelandic life.
Booking early is recommended, especially during the prime aurora season from September to March. Clear nights are essential for the Northern Lights, so check the weather forecast and aurora activity predictions in advance for the best chance of success.
To sum it up, whether you’re after the elusive Northern Lights, rugged waterfalls, or authentic Icelandic moments, Akureyri offers diverse photography experiences that turn natural beauty into lasting memories. Choose the tour that fits your style, pack your camera, and don’t forget warm layers — Iceland’s weather waits for no one. Happy shooting!