Northern Lights Tour from Reykjavik in a Super Jeep

Northern Lights Tour from Reykjavik in a Super Jeep: A Balanced Look at Iceland’s Celestial Show

Imagine cruising through the Icelandic countryside in a sturdy Super Jeep, the engine roaring as you search the night sky for the elusive aurora borealis. This tour, offered for about $197 per person, lasts roughly four hours and promises an adventure that blends off-road fun with the magic of one of nature’s greatest light displays. Your trip begins in Reykjavik, with a pickup that sets the tone for a comfortable yet exhilarating outing.

What we particularly like about this experience is how it combines expert guidance with the thrill of venturing into the rugged landscape, away from city lights—key for better aurora sightings. The hot chocolate and biscuits are a thoughtful touch, warming you during the chilly waits. Also, the flexibility to rebook if you don’t see the lights makes this tour low-stakes for those concerned about weather or luck.

On the downside, some reviews hint that the actual vehicle may not always match the “super jeep” image—some travelers noted it was more of a mini bus than a rugged SUV, which can be a little disappointing if you’re expecting a true off-road experience. Weather, of course, remains outside the operator’s control, which is a crucial factor in hopes of catching the aurora.

This tour suits travelers who love adventure and comfort, appreciate knowledgeable guides, and are willing to be patient for a chance to see the northern lights. If you’re staying in Reykjavik and want a small group experience with a high chance of seeing the lights, this could be a good fit.

Key Points

Expert Guides: Knowledgeable and dedicated guides increase your chances of spotting the lights and make the experience more enriching.
Off-Road Accessibility: The Super Jeep’s ability to travel into the countryside means fewer travelers and better viewing spots.
Weather-Dependent but Rebookable: If weather or clouds block your view, you can rebook free of charge—though availability might vary.
Comfort & Refreshments: Hot chocolate and biscuits keep you warm and energized during the long waits in the cold.
Group Size & Experience: Small groups (max 16) foster a more intimate experience, but some reviews note that the vehicle might not always be as “super” as advertised.
Timing & Flexibility: The tour lasts around four hours, starting from your Reykjavik hotel, with pickup and drop-off included, making logistics simple.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins with a pick-up from your centrally located Reykjavik hotel, which is a huge plus. The vehicle, described as a custom-built SUV with monster tires over 38 inches tall, promises an adventurous ride into Iceland’s wilderness. In reality, some travelers have noted that the vehicle may be more of a minibus rather than a traditional “Super Jeep.” For most, this won’t ruin the experience, but it’s worth keeping in mind if you’re expecting rugged off-road driving.

The small group size—limited to 16 participants—means you aren’t crammed into a bus with dozens of strangers, but some reviews suggest the vehicle might not always be as compact or exclusive as the “small group” label implies. Still, the view from the vehicle’s spacious interior is comfortable, and the fact that you’re traveling away from city lights is what really matters for aurora hunting.

The Journey into the Countryside

The drive out of Reykjavik takes roughly 45 minutes, into areas with abandoned houses and open landscapes, ideal for avoiding light pollution. Once there, your guide does a commendable job of scouting the sky for clear spots—an essential step because the northern lights are entirely dependent on weather conditions and solar activity.

This part of the trip is where the real excitement kicks in. Sitting in a sturdy vehicle, you’ll be keeping your eyes glued to the sky, waiting for the green glow to appear. The guides are quite personable and eager to share their knowledge, explaining why Iceland is such a prime location for northern lights sightings. As one reviewer put it, their guide was “fun” and “deeply experienced,” which can make a significant difference in your overall enjoyment.

The Wait and The Weather

Waiting in the cold can be challenging, especially if clouds obscure the sky. The tour offers hot chocolate and biscuits, a simple but appreciated gesture that helps stave off the chill and keeps spirits high. Several travelers mentioned that the weather is a key variable—if clouds block the sky, seeing the aurora becomes impossible. However, the company offers a rebooking policy—if you don’t see the lights, you can try again for free, provided there’s availability.

Reviews vary on the success rate. Some cite “spectacular” sights of the aurora, while others only catch a faint glimmer or stars. As one traveler said, “We saw the northern lights and it was amazing!” but others noted that “even a touch of light color on the horizon” was the best they could get. This variability is part of the natural unpredictability of northern lights tours.

The Return and Overall Experience

The trip wraps up with a drop-off back at your hotel in Reykjavik, typically after four hours. Many reviews praise the guides’ enthusiasm and dedication, with some noting that guides even took photos of travelers, making the experience memorable.

Several travelers appreciated the flexibility—if you don’t see the lights, they allow you to rebook at no extra cost, which reduces the disappointment. However, some reviews mention frustrations with booking issues or vehicle expectations, so it’s wise to clarify what vehicle you’ll get and how the rebooking process works.

What Does It All Mean for You?

If you’re the type who loves off-the-beaten-path adventures, appreciates small group tours, and doesn’t mind the unpredictability of weather, this tour offers good value. The chance to chase the northern lights in a comfortable, well-guided setting makes for an exciting evening, especially if you’re visiting Iceland for the first time. Just be prepared for cold weather, possibly limited sightings, and a vehicle that might not always feel as rugged as the name suggests.

Final Words

This northern lights tour from Reykjavik in a Super Jeep is best suited for adventurous travelers who want a personalized experience. The small group size, knowledgeable guides, and the option to rebook if you don’t see the lights all add up to a considerate and flexible package. The ride into the countryside and the cozy refreshments are simple touches that elevate the experience beyond just waiting in the cold.

However, it’s important to remember that nature decides whether you’ll see the aurora—no tour can guarantee this. The unpredictable weather in Iceland adds an element of chance, but the company’s policy of rebooking offers some peace of mind.

If you’re visiting Iceland in winter, love a bit of off-road driving, and are willing to spend a few hours seeking a natural spectacle, this tour offers a good chance to create memorable stories about your trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour provides pickup from your centrally located Reykjavik hotel, making logistics simple and convenient.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 4 hours, including transportation to and from Reykjavik.

What should I wear?
Warm outdoor clothing, waterproof layers, a hat, and gloves are essential, as you’ll be outside waiting in cold weather.

Can I rebook if I don’t see the northern lights?
Absolutely. If weather or clouds prevent sightings, you can rebook your tour at no extra cost, subject to availability.

What kind of vehicle is used?
It’s described as a custom-built SUV with large tires designed to handle rugged terrain. Some reviews note it might be more like a minibus, which doesn’t detract from the overall experience but is good to know.

Is the group size limited?
Yes, the tour is limited to a maximum of 16 participants, fostering a more intimate experience, though some reviews mention the vehicle might not always feel as exclusive as advertised.

In essence, this tour balances the thrill of Iceland’s wild landscape with the comfort of guided expertise. Perfect for those who enjoy a mix of adventure and the hope to witness one of nature’s most beautiful light displays.