Akureyri: Northern Lights Hunt with Forest Lagoon Entry

Akureyri: Northern Lights Hunt with Forest Lagoon Entry — An In-Depth Review

If you’re planning a winter trip to Iceland, especially around Akureyri, this tour offers a fascinating blend of relaxation and adventure. For about 5 hours, you’ll start your evening being whisked from your hotel in Akureyri to soak in the thermal waters of the Forest Lagoon—one of Iceland’s newest geothermal baths—before heading into the wilds of the Eyjafjord area in search of the Northern Lights. It’s a straightforward, well-paced experience that balances comfort with the thrill of chasing the Arctic skies.

What immediately catches our attention is how this tour prioritizes ease of access with hotel pickup and drop-off, making it simple for travelers to relax without the hassle of arranging transportation. The highlight, of course, is the chance to see the Aurora Borealis, an awe-inspiring natural display that’s always worth the effort. We also love that you get two hours at Forest Lagoon, giving you ample time to unwind in the steamy waters surrounded by Icelandic nature.

On the flip side, watching the Northern Lights is always a bit of a gamble—cloud cover and weather conditions can thwart even the most determined sky gazers. That said, the guides’ expertise in seeking out the best viewing spots can significantly boost your chances. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of comfort and adventure, don’t mind dressing warmly, and want a hassle-free way to experience some of Iceland’s most spectacular natural phenomena.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Comfortable Experience: Hotel pickup and drop-off simplify logistics, making the evening stress-free.
Relaxation First: Two hours at Forest Lagoon provide time to unwind in warm geothermal waters.
Expert Guidance: Guides are dedicated to maximizing your chances of seeing the Northern Lights.
Flexible Cancellation: Full refund available if you cancel 24 hours in advance.
Weather-Dependent: Sightings of the Aurora are not guaranteed, as they depend on weather conditions.
Age & Health Restrictions: Not suitable for children under 13, pregnant women, or those with certain health issues.

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A Practical Overview of the Tour

This tour, offered by Saga Travel, is designed with comfort and ease in mind. It lasts about five hours, with the start time varying depending on availability. You will be picked up from one of nine hotel locations in Akureyri—ranging from the Hotel Kea to the Icelandair Hotel—so chances are good you’re within easy reach of the pickup points.

The trip begins with a brief 15-minute van ride from your hotel, setting a relaxed tone before arriving at Forest Lagoon. Here, you’ll spend around two hours soaking in the geothermal pools. The Lagoon itself is a newer addition to Iceland’s celebrated thermal bath scene, and travelers frequently mention how beautiful and well-maintained it is. You’ll find towels included, so packing a swimsuit is your main concern.

After your soak, the guide will take you on a three-hour excursion into the Eyjafjord area for the Northern Lights hunt. The guides are experienced and committed to finding the best vantage points, often seeking locations away from the light pollution of towns. Several reviews mention how knowledgeable guides are at explaining what causes the Aurora and how they work to increase viewing odds.

The journey concludes with your return to your hotel, typically around midnight. This timing is ideal if you’re eager to keep your subsequent days in Iceland flexible and free for other adventures.

What to Expect at Each Stop

Hotel Pickup: Expect prompt service as guides arrive in comfortable vans, ready to take you into Iceland’s night. The process is efficient, and the nine pickup points in Akureyri ensure convenience.

Forest Lagoon: Once you arrive, you’ll be given access to the geothermal baths—an experience many find both calming and invigorating. The atmosphere is tranquil, with beautiful natural surroundings. The water temperature is warm enough to relax, and the facilities are modern. We loved the way the lagoon is surrounded by snow and Icelandic nature, making it feel like a true winter wonderland.

Northern Lights Hunt: After your bath, you’ll leave the comfort of the Lagoon and venture into the dark, open landscapes of Eyjafjord. Here, the guides hunt for the clearest skies and least light pollution, making every effort to find the elusive Aurora. You may wait quietly in the cold, but guides often provide insights about the phenomenon, helping you understand what you’re witnessing.

Return to Hotel: The journey back is relaxed and timely, leaving you with lasting memories of a night that beautifully combines relaxation with the chance to witness one of Earth’s most stunning natural displays.

Authentic Traveler Insights

Many reviews highlight how well-organized and flexible the experience is. One traveler noted, “The guides were very knowledgeable and made sure we didn’t miss the Northern Lights even if the weather was challenging.” Others appreciated the two hours at Forest Lagoon, describing it as “the perfect amount of time to relax without feeling rushed.”

A common concern is the unpredictability of the Aurora. One reviewer wisely pointed out, “We didn’t see the lights, but the guide still made the night special by searching different spots and sharing lots of information.” This highlights that, even if the lights aren’t visible, the journey itself is still rewarding thanks to the guides’ expertise.

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Pricing and Value

At around a five-hour experience, including a two-hour geothermal soak and a Northern Lights chase, the price offers good value. The inclusion of hotel pickup, entry to Forest Lagoon, towels, and the guiding service means you’re paying for convenience and expertise, not just a ticket. Considering the cost of standalone geothermal baths or private Aurora hunts, this combined package makes it a practical option for travelers seeking both comfort and adventure.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you enjoy relaxing in natural hot springs and are eager to chase the Aurora Borealis, this tour is a great fit. It’s ideal for travelers who prefer a guided, hassle-free experience without worrying about logistics in the dark. Families with children over 13, couples, or solo travelers looking for a balanced mix of comfort and adventure will find this appealing.

However, if you’re looking for a private or more flexible experience, or if you’re traveling with very young children or pregnant women, you might want to explore other options since this tour has age and health restrictions.

The Sum Up

This tour from Akureyri offers a well-rounded Icelandic experience—a blend of thermal relaxation and the chance to witness the Northern Lights in a guided, comfortable setting. The key strengths are the expert guides, the convenience of hotel pickups, and the beautiful Forest Lagoon baths. While weather conditions can be unpredictable, the guides’ efforts to find clear skies enhance your chances of a sighting.

It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want to enjoy Iceland’s natural warmth and spectacular sky shows without sacrificing comfort or organization. Perfect for those who appreciate a good mix of relaxation and adventure, and who are happy to keep their plans flexible in case the Aurora plays hard to get.

FAQ

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift unexpectedly.

What should I bring?
Dress warmly in layers, bring a swimsuit for the Forest Lagoon, and don’t forget a camera to capture the Northern Lights if you’re lucky.

Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making it easy to relax without worrying about car rentals or navigation.

How long do I spend at Forest Lagoon?
You’ll have about two hours to soak and enjoy the natural surroundings, which many find to be just the right amount of time.

What if I don’t see the Northern Lights?
Guides do their best to find clear skies, but since it’s a natural phenomenon, sightings can’t be guaranteed. Even without lights, the outing offers a memorable experience.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 13, due to the late hours and cold weather conditions involved.

Can pregnant women join?
No, this tour isn’t recommended for pregnant women, partly because of the outdoor Northern Lights hunt and the cold weather.

In short, this Northern Lights and Forest Lagoon tour combines the best of Icelandic nature with the comfort of guided planning. Whether you’re chasing the Aurora or soaking in warm waters, it promises a memorable evening in Akureyri.

You can check availability for your dates here: