Blue Lagoon & Northern Lights from Reykjavik

When visiting Iceland, two experiences often top travelers’ wish lists: relaxing in the Blue Lagoon and chasing the elusive Northern Lights. This tour offers both in one convenient package, making it an appealing choice for those eager to maximize their time and see some of Iceland’s most famous sights. For around $255 per person, you’ll get a roughly 8-hour adventure starting from Reykjavik, including round-trip transfers, entry to the Blue Lagoon, and a guided coach tour to hunt for the Northern Lights.

What we love about this experience is how hassle-free it is—no need to worry about pre-booking tickets or navigating public transport. Plus, the Blue Lagoon’s inclusions, like a silica mud mask and a drink, add that extra touch of indulgence. And, the chance to see the Northern Lights guided by experts can turn into an unforgettable highlight of your trip — though, of course, nature remains unpredictable.

That said, one thing to keep in mind is the tour’s flexibility regarding Northern Lights sightings. While the tour maximizes your chances with a guided coach, seeing the aurora isn’t guaranteed—it depends on weather and solar activity. So, if you’re hoping for a guaranteed spectacle, it’s worth managing expectations.

This tour suits travelers wanting a balanced mix of relaxation and adventure, with plenty of opportunity to enjoy Iceland’s natural beauty without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. It’s especially popular among visitors looking for a streamlined experience that covers two major bucket-list items efficiently.

Key Points

• All-in-one convenience: Transfers, Blue Lagoon entrance, and Northern Lights tour included.
• Extra touches: Silica mud mask, towel, and a drink at the Blue Lagoon enhance the experience.
• Expert guidance: Local guides help you make the most of each stop, increasing your chances of a Northern Lights sighting.
• Flexible timing: Free time in Reykjavik for dinner or exploring before or after the main activities.
• Eco-friendly approach: The tour is carbon neutral, in cooperation with Vaxa Technologies.
• Limited guaranteed sightings: Aurora viewing remains dependent on weather conditions.

What the Tour Includes and How It Works

This tour is designed for travelers who want an uncomplicated way to experience two iconic Icelandic sights. Starting from the BSÍ Bus Terminal in Reykjavik at 1:00 pm, your day begins with a comfortable coach ride. The bus is equipped with WiFi, so you can start sharing your adventure right away.

The Blue Lagoon Experience

The highlight for many is the Blue Lagoon, where you’ll enjoy the Comfort Package, which covers entrance to the lagoon, silica mud mask, towel, and a drink of your choice. Imagine soaking in warm, mineral-rich waters with a silica mud mask that’s reputed to beautify and relax. The lagoon is about 4 hours long, giving you ample time to unwind, take photos, or simply float and enjoy the scenery.

Multiple travelers mention how well-organized the experience is, with some praising the helpful staff. One reviewer said, “The Blue Lagoon was fun, and the guide was good and quite amusing,” indicating that your guide’s commentary and assistance can make a real difference in your comfort and enjoyment.

Free Time & Dining in Reykjavik

After the Blue Lagoon, you’ll have some free time in Reykjavik before the Northern Lights tour departs. This is your chance to grab a meal at a local restaurant or relax in the city—a nice break to tailor your experience to your tastes. Keep in mind that food and drinks outside the Blue Lagoon aren’t included, so plan accordingly.

The Northern Lights Coach Tour

As evening falls, the real adventure begins. The coach takes you on a guided quest to spot the aurora borealis, with local experts doing their best to find a clear night sky. Several reviewers praise the guides for their professionalism and enthusiasm, with one noting, “The guide for the northern lights was great.” While sightings are not guaranteed—given the natural variables—the guided aspect increases your odds of catching a glimpse.

Some guests, however, have expressed frustration about the late returns, as one reviewer lamented, “Did not get to bed until 3 am—definitely not what was promised.” This is something to consider if you prefer your nights a bit earlier or need to get up early the next day.

Deep Dive into the Experience

The Blue Lagoon: Relaxation and Wellness

The Blue Lagoon is arguably the crown jewel of many travelers’ Iceland trip, and this tour makes visiting straightforward. The lagoon’s milky blue waters, rich in silica and algae, are famous for their soothing properties. The Comfort Package ensures you can enjoy this indulgence without extra hassle—your ticket, mud mask, towel, and drink are all included.

While some reviews mention that staff at the lagoon can be a bit directive, most find the environment relaxing. The lagoon’s temperature is comfortably warm, perfect for unwinding after a day of travel or sightseeing. During your four hours there, you might choose to indulge in the silica mud mask or simply float and soak in the mineral-rich waters.

Reykjavik Free Time

Between the Blue Lagoon and the northern lights, you’ll have a few hours to explore Reykjavik. This saves you the trouble of arranging your own transport or tickets, and it gives you an authentic Icelandic city experience. Many travelers use this window to sample local cuisine or enjoy a coffee in cozy cafes. Remember, this time is at your leisure, so plan accordingly.

The Northern Lights Expedition: A Quest for the Aurora

The guided coach tour to see the Northern Lights is the evening’s final highlight. The guides are experienced in reading the skies and know where the best chances are to spot the aurora. As one reviewer noted, “The guide was great and quite amusing,” which can make the late-night hours more enjoyable despite the weather’s caprices.

However, some travelers have been disappointed when clouds or poor solar activity hinder the view, leading to less-than-stellar nights. Still, the effort is worth it—standing under a dark Icelandic sky, waiting for the shimmering lights, is truly a bucket-list moment. Remember, patience is key, and warm clothing is recommended for the outdoor wait.

Transportation, Group Size, and Practical Details

Transport is by coach with WiFi, comfortable enough for the roughly 8-hour day. The tour limits group size to around 100 travelers, which helps keep things organized but still maintains a lively atmosphere.

The pick-up point at BSÍ Bus Terminal is centrally located and accessible by public transportation, making it easy to meet your guide. Most travelers find the timing works well, though some mention the late return from the Northern Lights tour can be tiring.

Pricing & Value

At $255, the tour offers a decent value considering the included entries and guided experience. The Blue Lagoon alone can be quite expensive, so bundling it with the Northern Lights tour and transport makes it more economical. That said, some reviews suggest the overall value could be better, especially if you’re hoping for a guaranteed sighting of the aurora or additional inclusions like meals.

Authentic Experiences and Honest Feedback

While most reviews are positive, some travelers have voiced concerns. One felt the price was high relative to what was received and wished for a meal included. Others were disappointed when tours were canceled due to seismic activity, though full refunds were offered. A few mentioned logistical surprises, like needing to leave the tour and join another, which could cause longer waits or fatigue.

Yet, the majority praise the professional guides, stunning scenery, and reliable transfer service. One traveler summed it up: “Truly stunning experience from the Blue Lagoon to the Northern Lights. This trip is definitely worth booking when in Iceland!”

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want to combine relaxation with adventure without the stress of planning every detail. If you’re eager to visit the Blue Lagoon, enjoy the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights, and prefer the comfort of a guided tour, this fits the bill. It’s especially suitable for those who value convenience and are willing to accept that aurora sightings depend on the weather.

However, if you’re a light sleeper or prefer early nights, be mindful of the late return from the Northern Lights portion. For those on a tight budget, considering the value of the Blue Lagoon admission and guided tours, it may still be a good deal—but compare options if you’re looking for more inclusions like meals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include transportation? Yes, round-trip coach transfers from the BSÍ Bus Terminal in Reykjavik are included, making it a seamless journey.

How long is the Blue Lagoon visit? You get about 4 hours to relax in the lagoon, enjoy the silica mud mask, and have your drink.

Are meals included? No, food and drinks outside the Blue Lagoon are not covered, but you have free time in Reykjavik to find your own.

What’s the likelihood of seeing the Northern Lights? While guides do their best to spot the aurora, sightings depend on weather and solar activity, so they aren’t guaranteed.

Is the tour suitable for children? Most travelers can participate, but children aged 5 and younger are not permitted.

How many people are on the tour? The group size can be up to 100 travelers, which keeps things lively but manageable.

What if the Northern Lights tour gets canceled? If canceled due to weather or other factors, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour begins.

What should I wear? Dress warmly, especially for the Northern Lights coach portion, as outdoor waiting can get chilly.

Is this tour eco-friendly? Yes, it’s a carbon-neutral tour in cooperation with Vaxa Technologies, reflecting Iceland’s commitment to sustainability.

Final Thoughts

For those seeking a stress-free way to enjoy two of Iceland’s most iconic experiences, this Blue Lagoon and Northern Lights tour offers a practical and enjoyable option. It’s especially appealing if you appreciate guided expertise, the convenience of transfers, and a good balance of relaxation and adventure.

While the northern lights are ultimately unpredictable, the guided effort increases your odds, and the Blue Lagoon’s soothing waters provide guaranteed comfort. The free time in Reykjavik lets you tailor the day to your pace, whether that’s exploring the city’s cafes or simply relaxing after a long day.

If you’re someone who values well-organized tours with authentic experiences and doesn’t mind the possibility of some late nights, this package could be a memorable highlight of your Iceland visit. Just keep in mind the weather-dependent nature of the aurora and plan for some flexibility.

Enjoy your trip—and if you’re lucky, those shimmering green lights might just dance across your sky!