Blue Lagoon and Northern Lights Tour Including Admission

If you’re heading to Reykjavik and looking for a way to combine relaxation with a dash of adventure, this Blue Lagoon and Northern Lights tour offers just that. Priced at around $229 per person and lasting approximately 10 hours, it’s designed to showcase two of Iceland’s most iconic experiences in one seamless day. You’ll start with a leisurely soak in the famous geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon, complete with a silica mud mask and a complimentary drink, then finish up with a hunt for the elusive Aurora Borealis in the evening.

We’re big fans of how this tour manages to pack two different Icelandic marvels into one day without rushing. The highlight for many is the chance to unwind in the luxury of mineral-rich waters while sipping a drink from the swim-up bar, and later, to stand under the night sky and hopefully witness the dance of the Northern Lights—something truly unforgettable. One thing to consider, however, is the tight timing between activities, which may mean you need to plan meals or packing accordingly.

This tour suits travelers who value convenience and variety—those wanting to enjoy both a world-renowned spa experience and the chance to see the Aurora in one affordable package. If you’re someone who appreciates guided tours with local insights and doesn’t mind a bit of unpredictability with the Northern Lights, this could be a good fit.

Key Points

• Two Iconic Experiences: Blue Lagoon relaxation and a Northern Lights hunt in one trip.
• Pre-booked Entry: Advance booking to ensure admission to the Blue Lagoon.
• Comfortable Transport: Hassle-free pickup and transfers from your Reykjavik hotel.
• Guided Experience: Touch screen audio guides and multilingual commentary.
• Limited Food & Beverages: No meals included, so plan to dine at the lagoon or bring snacks.
• Weather Dependent: Northern Lights visibility relies on weather and solar activity.

Planning a day that balances ultimate relaxation with a glimpse of one of nature’s most stunning phenomena can seem ambitious. This tour manages to do just that, providing a fairly comprehensive experience that appeals to a broad audience—especially those who don’t want to choose between a soothing soak and a night under the stars.

The Blue Lagoon: A Geothermal Oasis

The Blue Lagoon is not just a water park; it’s an Icelandic institution. The journey from Reykjavík to the lagoon is typically about an hour by coach, a scenic drive through volcanic landscapes that gets you in the mood for the geothermal magic ahead. The ticket price, around $229, includes a 4-hour entry—more than enough time to unwind.

Once inside, you’ll find the water to be comfortably warm, even on chilly days. The lagoon’s mineral-rich waters contain silica and algae, which many say leave your skin feeling rejuvenated. You can indulge in the silica mud mask, which is a highlight in reviews—something we agree adds a layer of fun and pampering to the visit. The swim-up bar, though limited to non-alcoholic drinks and beer, offers a unique way to relax while floating in the steaming waters.

Travelers like Kate_M loved the stunning scenery and the soothing environment, though some found the pick-up and drop-off process a tad confusing. The lagoon is large and well-organized, but some reviews mention that timing can be tight, especially if you want to make the most of your stay without feeling rushed.

The Short Break in Reykjavik

After returning from the lagoon, you’ll have a window to grab dinner or snacks before heading out again. This is an important detail—most reviews suggest having some food beforehand or packing a snack, as the short interval between activities can be tight. It’s worth noting that some guests felt the timing was a little rushed and that the 4-hour lagoon visit often ends up feeling closer to 3 hours due to transfer and packing time.

Northern Lights Safari: A Nighttime Quest

The evening segment begins around 9 pm (or 10 pmdepending on the season), with a comfortable bus ride out of the city in search of the aurora borealis. The guides, such as Hilda, are praised for their informative commentary and helpful photography tips. The journey takes about 40 minutes to reach a good viewing spot, away from city lights.

The experience is unpredictable—mother nature has the last word. Some guests see the lights immediately, while others wait 30 to 45 minutes, often with the guides explaining how to capture the best photos. Even if the aurora remains elusive, many reviewers like Nicola_C consider it a worthwhile experience, describing it as “small we are on this planet” and still magical.

Weather is the biggest wild card. Reports show that clouds or rain can cancel the lights, and some reviews mention cancellations or poor visibility. However, the tour prides itself on offering free rebookings, which is a considerate policy that lets you try again if the conditions aren’t perfect.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour offers pickup from Reykjavík hotels or designated bus stops, with most travelers feeling the process was well-organized. The buses are generally comfortable, equipped with Wi-Fi, and include a touch screen audio guide in 10 languages—helpful for learning about Iceland’s geology and folklore while en route.

Group sizes cap at 300, but many reviews detail smaller, friendly groups where guides make an effort to personalize the experience. The guides’ knowledge and friendly attitude shine through, making the journey more engaging.

Cost and Value

At roughly $229, this tour offers a good value for travelers eager to combine two major Icelandic attractions without booking separate tours. The Blue Lagoon admission is a significant part of the cost, and the Northern Lights experience is included, which normally costs extra if booked independently.

However, the experience’s value does depend on weather conditions and timing. Some guests, like Chelsea_W, faced frustrations with logistical issues like missed pickups and delays, so flexibility and patience are helpful.

Reviews and Authentic Experiences

The collective reviews paint a mixed but generally positive picture. Many highlight well-organized trips, stunning scenery, and knowledgeable guides. For instance, Georgia_K appreciated the family-friendly atmosphere and unique feeling of geothermal water, while others like Beata_H noted that the timing between activities can be tight.

On the downside, a few reviews express dissatisfaction with poor communication or transport delays—a reminder that Iceland’s weather and logistics can be unpredictable. The most common praise, however, is for the beauty of the Blue Lagoon and the excitement of chasing the Northern Lights—experiences that are worth the effort and potential hiccups.

This Blue Lagoon and Northern Lights tour offers a practical way to tick two Icelandic bucket list items in one go. It’s most suitable for travelers who prioritize convenience and value guided insights, especially if they’re short on time or prefer a structured experience. The admission to the lagoon and guided aurora chase are both included, making it a straightforward choice for those who want to maximize their Iceland trip without organizing multiple separate excursions.

While timing can be tight and weather unpredictable, many guests find the experience well worth it—the warm waters and the hope of seeing the Northern Lights leave lasting memories. It’s not perfect, but it’s a reliable, enjoyable way to enjoy Iceland’s natural wonders with a touch of comfort.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour generally welcomes most travelers. The Blue Lagoon is family-friendly, and the Northern Lights experience involves a comfortable bus ride, though very young children might find late-night outings challenging.

Do I need to bring my own food or drinks?
No meals are included, so bringing snacks is recommended, especially if you want to avoid having to buy food between activities. The lagoon offers a swim-up bar with limited options, mostly non-alcoholic drinks and beer.

What should I wear for the Blue Lagoon?
Swimwear is required, and it’s best to bring a towel and flip-flops. The water is warm, but the outdoor air can be cold, so packing a warm layer for after your swim is wise.

Can I see the Northern Lights every night?
No, the aurora is a natural phenomenon, so sightings depend on weather, solar activity, and clear skies. The tour offers a free rebooking if you don’t see the lights on your first try.

How long do I spend at the Blue Lagoon?
Most guests spend around 3 to 4 hours there, though some reviews mention the actual time being slightly less due to transfers and packing.

Is the transfer service reliable?
Most reviews indicate the transportation is well-organized, but a few mention delays or miscommunications, so staying flexible helps.

What’s included in the tour?
Admission to the Blue Lagoon, one drink from the bar, silica mud mask, Wi-Fi on the bus, and a multilingual audio guide.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is suitable for most ages, but check with the provider if traveling with very young children or seniors for specific needs.

What is the weather like on these tours?
Expect cold winter weather, especially during the Northern Lights chase. The lagoon is comfortably warm, but outdoor conditions can vary greatly.

This tour offers an excellent way to experience Iceland’s geothermal wonderland and the spectacle of the Northern Lights, provided you’re prepared for the elements and some logistical quirks. It balances relaxation and adventure, making it ideal for those who want their Iceland trip to be memorable—and manageable.