Northern Lights Tour from Husavik

Northern Lights Tour from Husavik: An Authentic Arctic Night Adventure

Looking for a guided adventure into the Icelandic night to chase the elusive northern lights? This Northern Lights Tour from Husavik offers a cozy, small-group experience designed to maximize your chances of witnessing the natural wonder in the calm autumn or winter skies. Priced at $173.64 per person, the tour lasts around 2 to 3 hours and departs from Husavik at 9:00 pm, focusing on the northeast region of Iceland, an area less crowded and often less light-polluted than more tourist-heavy spots.

What caught our eye are two specific features: first, the local guides’ genuine enthusiasm and experience, often going aurora hunting in their free time, which means you’ll learn a lot about the phenomenon while keeping an eye out for the lights. Second, the flexible itinerary that adapts to weather conditions, including stops at picturesque locations like Þeistareykir or Öxarfjörður, promising a more personalized experience depending on the night’s conditions.

That said, a potential drawback is the variability in experience due to weather and aurora visibility. Since the Northern Lights are a natural display, there’s no guarantee you’ll see them, and the reviews show some travelers faced disappointment or miscommunication. This makes it a suitable choice for travelers who are flexible and eager for the experience rather than a guaranteed sighting.

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who are willing to brave the cold, are interested in learning about the aurora from local guides, and value a small, intimate group experience. If you’re looking for a relaxed, authentic night out under Iceland’s vast starlit sky, this could be a good pick.

Key Points

• Accessible Small Group: Limited to 8 travelers, ensuring a personal experience.
• Region Focused: The northeast’s less light-polluted areas increase your chances of seeing the lights.
• Flexible Locations: Stops vary based on weather; includes notable spots like Þeistareykir and Öxarfjörður.
• Weather-dependent: The tour only runs in good weather; poor conditions mean a chance to reschedule or refund.
• Authentic Guides: Guides often go aurora hunting in their free time, adding passion and knowledge.
• Potential for Disappointment: Visibility of the aurora depends on natural conditions, which can be unpredictable.

In-Depth Review of the Northern Lights Tour from Husavik

What does the tour entail?

This Northern Lights tour is designed to give you a two to three-hour window to catch the aurora borealis in the northeast of Iceland, specifically departing from Husavik. As the tour begins at 9:00 pm from a public parking area, you’ll meet your guide in a small group—no more than 8 travelers—which helps keep the experience intimate and responsive to your questions or needs.

The itinerary is flexible: based on weather patterns, guides will choose the best locations to maximize the chances of a sighting. Often, stops include scenic spots such as Þeistareykir, known for geothermal activity and striking landscapes, or Öxarfjörður, a fjord area that offers dark skies perfect for aurora viewing. The mouth of Laxá river and Tjörnes are also on the list, each providing unique natural backdrops for what might be a fleeting, magical show in the sky.

What should you expect during the tour?

Expect an almost meditative experience of waiting under the vast Icelandic sky, with your guide sharing insights about what causes the aurora borealis and local folklore surrounding it. When the lights appear, you’ll be treated to an awe-inspiring natural display, often in a remote setting far from city lights, which amplifies the visual impact.

Since the experience is weather-dependent, your guide might have to shift locations or cancel if conditions are unsuitable. This can be frustrating, as one review candidly notes: “Very unprofessional. We went to the meet up spot and waited for 30 minutes to be picked up. I messaged them several times and got no reply, only to receive an apology email the next morning.” While such incidents appear rare, they highlight the importance of clear communication and flexible expectations.

Experience quality and value

The guides’ passion and local knowledge are a definite plus, especially considering that they often pursue aurora hunting in their free time. This genuine enthusiasm can make a difference in understanding the natural phenomena and feeling connected to the experience.

The price point, at about $173.64, reflects the small-group size, personalized stops, and the remote locations visited, all of which contribute to a more genuine and less commercialized experience compared to larger tours. However, keep in mind that the aurora itself is a natural display, and no tour can guarantee visibility—something to consider especially if your trip hinges on witnessing the lights.

Practical considerations

• Timing: The 9:00 pm start means you’ll be out during the coldest hours of night, so dress warmly—layers, hats, gloves, and sturdy boots are essential.
• Booking: The tour is best booked at least 53 days in advance due to its popularity, but always check the weather forecast close to your date.
• Weather dependency: If the skies are cloudy or conditions poor, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled, with a full refund available if canceled more than 24 hours in advance.
• Small group: A maximum of 8 travelers means a more tailored experience, but also less flexibility if your group has specific needs.

Authenticity and traveler feedback

While many travelers find this tour a worthwhile adventure, some review comments serve as a caution. One reviewer complained about lack of communication and a cancellation without notice, which is a reminder to stay flexible. Others appreciated the personalized nature of the experience and the chance to explore less touristy areas.

Who should consider this tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers eager to escape light pollution and experience the natural beauty of the Icelandic night sky. You’re best suited if you’re willing to wait patiently and stay flexible, understanding that the aurora is a natural phenomenon with no guarantees.

It’s especially fitting for those who value local guides’ passion and knowledge, and enjoy remote scenic spots. If you’re looking for a more structured, guaranteed aurora experience, you might want to explore other options, but for the authentic Icelandic night under the stars, this tour offers a genuine chance to catch a glimpse of the northern lights in an intimate, relaxed setting.

The Sum Up

This Northern Lights Tour from Husavik offers a compelling option for travelers seeking a small-group, authentic experience under Iceland’s vast, dark skies. While the natural unpredictability of the aurora means no guarantees, the focus on local guides, flexible stops, and remote locations enhances your chances of witnessing this magical display in comfort and style.

The experience is particularly suitable for those who value personalized attention, are prepared for cold nights, and want to explore less crowded spots away from city lights. The price reflects the small-group intimacy and the effort to find the best viewing locations, making it a worthwhile investment if you’re eager for a memorable Arctic night.

However, travelers should be aware of potential cancellations and communication issues, so staying flexible and having backup plans can make the experience more enjoyable. If you’re a patient, adventurous spirit who’s excited about the possibility (but not guaranteed certainty) of the northern lights, this tour is a great way to add a memorable chapter to your Iceland trip.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but it’s best suited for those comfortable with cold outdoor conditions and staying still for periods.

How long does the tour last?
Expect approximately 2 to 3 hours, starting at 9:00 pm and ending back at the meeting point.

What locations are visited during the tour?
The stops depend on weather but may include Þeistareykir, the mouth of Laxá river, Tjörnes, and Öxarfjörður—all scenic and ideal for aurora viewing.

Is the tour canceled if the weather is poor?
Yes, the tour requires good weather. If canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How much does the tour cost?
It’s priced at $173.64 per person, which covers the guide, transportation, and remote locations.

Can I get a refund if I cancel?
Yes, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly—layers, hats, gloves, and sturdy boots are highly recommended as you’ll be outside in cold temperatures.

Will I definitely see the northern lights?
There’s no guarantee with natural phenomena, but the tour’s focus on dark, remote locations maximizes your chances.

This guided northern lights experience from Husavik is a thoughtful way to step outside the usual tourist spots and pursue Iceland’s most iconic natural wonder. With a little patience and good luck, you could find yourself under a shimmering sky of dancing green lights—an unforgettable memory of your Iceland journey.