Reykjavik: Northern Lights Tour – Pro Aurora Photos – Small Group

Reykjavik: Northern Lights Tour – Pro Aurora Photos – Small Group

Imagine standing under a star-studded sky, watching the elusive dance of the aurora borealis flicker across the night. For around $165 per person, this small-group tour offers you a chance to chase the Northern Lights from Reykjavik with experts who focus on maximizing your chances while ensuring you have fun along the way.

Starting with pickup from various locations in Reykjavik, the tour takes you out into the Icelandic wilderness where your guides will hunt for the best spots based on the weather and aurora forecast. The experience lasts approximately 3 to 5 hours, with the opportunity to make multiple attempts if Mother Nature isn’t cooperative the first time. Alongside the thrill of the chase, you’ll enjoy hot cocoa, some Viking-themed fun, and plenty of chances for stellar photos.

Two things we love about this tour are the knowledgeable guides who are dedicated to finding clear skies and the flexibility to try multiple times — because sometimes the lights need patience, not just luck. The other highlight is the quality of the experience — from the comfortable transportation to the engaging story-telling and photo tips.

A possible consideration is the cold weather and standing around outdoors, which can be challenging if you’re not dressed warmly or if patience runs thin. But if you’re willing to brave the chill, the reward can be a spectacular display of nature’s light show.

This tour is best suited for travelers who are eager to see the Northern Lights with a good chance, appreciate expert guidance, and enjoy small, intimate groups. It’s especially appealing if you want to combine a fun cultural experience with the thrill of hunting the aurora, as many reviews highlight the friendly, knowledgeable guides like Jonas and Kobe.

Key Points

• Flexible Viewing Attempts: You can go out multiple times until you see the lights, increasing your chances.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Jonas and Kobe are known for their knowledge, patience, and efforts to find clear skies.
• Comfort and Convenience: Pickup from Reykjavik, hot cocoa, and cozy blankets keep you comfortable in the cold.
• Photo Opportunities: The guides are experienced photographers, helping you capture the best shots of the aurora.
• Authentic Experience: Small group size (max 18 travelers) fosters a friendly, personalized atmosphere.
• Weather-Dependent: The tour depends heavily on weather conditions, so flexibility is key.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Pickup

The tour begins with pickups from several spots around Reykjavik, making it convenient for travelers staying in or near the city center. This personal touch ensures you’re not just another face in a large bus, but part of a small, friendly group. Many reviewers note how smoothly the process goes, with one mentioning that the communication beforehand was “excellent” and made for a comfortable start.

The Hunt for the Aurora

Once on the road, your guide — often someone like Jonas or Kobe — will explain what they’re tracking and why they’re choosing particular locations. The goal is to find a clear, dark sky away from light pollution, increasing your chances of seeing the aurora with your own eyes. The guide’s expertise shines here: many reviewers say their guides are “phenomenal at explaining the conditions” and “did not give up until they found the lights.”

The tour typically makes two stops at each location, trying different spots based on weather updates and aurora forecast. One reviewer appreciated how Jonas “made two stops at each location seeing the aurora on both occasions,” which shows the real effort to optimize viewing opportunities.

Sightings and Photography

The guides are not just drivers but also professional photographers, ready to help you capture the moment. Many travelers comment on how their guides took “great photos” and helped them with camera settings. If the aurora appears, it’s often described as “dancing lights,” “absolutely magical,” and “beautiful.” Even on nights when the lights are faint or difficult to see with the naked eye, many reviewers mention that their guides still managed to produce impressive photos.

Comfort in Cold Weather

In Iceland, it’s typically cold at night, especially with long waits outdoors. The tour counters this by providing hot cocoa, cookies, and blankets, which many reviewers say is “a nice bonus” that keeps spirits high. One reviewer even described their experience as “well worth the time in the cold,” emphasizing how the warmth and hot drinks made the chilly conditions manageable.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of 18 travelers, this tour fosters an intimate, relaxed environment. Many reviews highlight the friendly, patient guides who go above and beyond. For instance, one reviewer said, “Jonas was very knowledgeable and did not give up until we found the aurora,” revealing the dedication that sets this tour apart.

Overall Value and Satisfaction

While the tour isn’t cheap, many travelers feel it offers excellent value considering the effort, guidance, and photo opportunities included. Multiple reviews praise how guides like Kobe and Emil are “friendly,” “professional,” and “dedicated,” which adds significantly to the overall experience.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who values expert guidance, personalized attention, and multiple chances to see the aurora, this tour is a top pick. It’s ideal for travelers willing to brave the cold for a shot at witnessing one of nature’s most spectacular displays. It also appeals to those who wish to document their experience with professional help, as many guides are skilled photographers.

However, if you’re very sensitive to cold or have limited flexibility to wait outdoors, consider dressing warmly and preparing for possible delays, as weather can always intervene.

The Sum Up

This tour offers an excellent balance between adventure, comfort, and authenticity. The small group size, dedicated guides, and flexible approach make it stand out among many aurora-chasing options around Reykjavik. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who prioritize seeing the lights with their own eyes and capturing memorable photos.

While weather can always be unpredictable, the effort and expertise of the guides—combined with the effort to try multiple locations—greatly increase your chances of experiencing the aurora. The friendly atmosphere, warm drinks, and the opportunity to share the moment with others make this a memorable outing in Iceland.

For those eager to make the most of their Iceland visit and chase the aurora with knowledgeable guides, this tour offers a genuine, well-organized, and friendly way to do just that.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
Pickup from several Reykjavik locations, transportation to multiple viewing spots, hot cocoa, cookies, blankets, and the chance to take professional photos of the aurora.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 3 to 5 hours, depending on the weather and aurora activity.

Can I try multiple times to see the lights?
Yes. If the aurora isn’t visible on the first outing, your guides will take you to other locations to increase your chances.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly, as you’ll be outside in cold weather for extended periods. Many reviewers mention that the hot drinks and blankets help, but good thermal clothing is essential.

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, but patience and warm clothing are recommended. The small group size allows for a friendly and flexible experience.

What if the weather is poor or the lights don’t appear?
The tour is weather-dependent, so if conditions are poor, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled. You’ll either get a different date or a full refund.

This Northern Lights tour from Reykjavik offers a chance to see one of nature’s most breathtaking phenomena with helpful guides, flexible attempts, and a cozy touch. Perfect for those who want a genuine, well-organized experience with a chance to capture unforgettable memories.