The Northern Lights Hunt

Discover the Magic of the Northern Lights Hunt in Iceland

If you’re dreaming of catching the elusive Northern Lights and exploring some of Iceland’s most breathtaking natural beauty, this tour offers a well-rounded experience. For around $1,780 per group (up to four people), you get about five hours of adventure starting from Reykjavik, led by a knowledgeable photographer guide. The tour includes pickup and drop-off, making it hassle-free, and promises an intimate small-group setting—max six travelers—that ensures personalized attention.

What we particularly like about this experience is how it combines spectacular natural phenomena with the thrill of glacier hiking—a rare chance to walk on and photograph ice that’s thousands of years old. Plus, the professional guide takes care of capturing your moments, so you’ll walk away with high-quality, edited photos sent to you about two weeks later. On the flip side, you’ll want to come prepared for cold weather, as warm clothing isn’t included, and the tour hinges on clear skies for the Northern Lights to appear.

This tour is perfect for travelers who value personalized guidance and want a multifaceted adventure—from the icy wonderland of Vatnajokull to chasing the Aurora Borealis. It’s ideal if you’re keen on professional photography or simply want to maximize your chances of witnessing Iceland’s night sky magic in comfort and style.

Key Points

• Small-group experience: Limited to six travelers for personalized attention.
• Photographic memories: Your guide captures professional photos of your glacier hike.
• Flexible locations: Varying northern lights spots based on weather, including Snaefellsnes, Reykjanes, or South Coast.
• All-in-one adventure: Combines glacier exploration with Aurora viewing.
• Weather-dependent: Clear skies are essential for Northern Lights sightings.
• Value for the price: Includes transportation, guide, photos, and a memorable experience.

In-Depth Review of the Northern Lights Hunt Tour

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins in Reykjavik at 8:00 pm, a perfect time to start after sunset, increasing your chances of seeing the Aurora. The pickup service is a big plus, freeing you from the hassle of navigating Iceland’s sometimes tricky roads or public transport. The small-group format (max six people) helps create a cozy, less hurried atmosphere, ideal for photography and personal questions.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Do and See

The tour’s core aim is to maximize your chances of seeing the Aurora Borealis while offering an unforgettable glacier experience. Since Northern Lights visibility depends on weather and cloud cover, the guide will choose locations with the best forecasted conditions, which may include spots like the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, Reykjanes, or the South Coast. These areas are known for their dark, clear skies away from city lights, critical for a good Aurora display.

The highlight for many is the glacier hike in Vatnajokull National Park. Your guide, often a professional photographer, will lead you onto one of Iceland’s most scenic outlet glaciers. We loved how the guide not only shares insights about glacial geology but also takes the time to capture stunning images of each participant amid the icy towers, blue ice, and reflective rivers. One review mentioned, “Climbing a glacier was epic,” highlighting the memorable nature of this adventure.

Glacier Hiking: A Unique Experience

The glacier hike is where this tour shines. You’ll get to explore scenic viewpoints, sip from glacial rivers, and witness the shimmering blue ice formations—a photographer’s dream. The guide’s expertise ensures safety on the ice and helps you understand the glacier’s formation and history. The added benefit here is that each traveler receives two professionally-edited photos via email, ensuring your Icelandic adventure is well-documented.

The Search for the Northern Lights

The most unpredictable part of the tour is, of course, the Aurora Borealis. The guide will do their best to find clear skies and the perfect spot for viewing, but since it’s a natural phenomenon, sightings cannot be guaranteed. The tour explicitly states that no refunds or rebookings are automatic if the lights aren’t visible. However, the guide’s commitment to night photography means they will take shots regardless of conditions, adding an element of hope and patience.

What Travelers Say

The sole review is glowing: “We had the BEST time. Great guide! It’s a MUST do!! Our pictures were great also. Climbing a glacier was epic.” This echoes the general sentiment of how personalized guidance, combined with the adventure, creates a memorable experience. Many travelers appreciate the professional photos, which save the hassle of trying to photograph the Northern Lights or icy landscapes on their own.

Pricing and Value

At nearly $1,780 per group, this tour offers a premium experience, but it’s packed with value. You’re not just paying for transportation and a guide—you’re investing in a personalized photo package, a glacier adventure, and the chance to see one of nature’s most fleeting spectacles. Considering Iceland’s reputation for high-quality tours, the price is reasonable for an experience that combines adventure, learning, and photography.

Considerations for Travelers

While the tour’s flexibility on location and weather is advantageous, it’s important to dress warmly—the experience does not supply clothing. Bringing layers, warm hats, gloves, and perhaps a hot chocolate or thermos of tea can turn a potentially cold night into a cozy, memorable one. Also, since the tour is weather-dependent, travelers should be prepared for the possibility of cancelation or rescheduling if conditions aren’t suitable.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This adventure is best for adventurous travelers who want a personalized experience with plenty of opportunities for great photos. It suits those who are eager to combine glacier trekking with the thrill of chasing the Northern Lights in a small, intimate group. If you’re interested in learning about glacial geology from a knowledgeable guide or want professional images of your Iceland trip, this tour is a fantastic choice.

Those who prefer a more flexible itinerary and don’t mind outdoor conditions will find this a worthwhile splurge. It’s especially ideal for travelers who have limited time in Iceland but want a comprehensive, memorable day that combines two of Iceland’s most iconic natural attractions.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

For those who value personal guidance, high-quality photography, and the chance to experience both glacier exploration and Northern Lights viewing, this tour delivers in spades. The small-group setting allows for a more relaxed experience and personalized attention from your guide, often a professional photographer, which elevates the entire adventure.

While the cost is on the higher side, the inclusion of professional photos and the unique combination of glacier hiking and Aurora hunting makes this a special investment. It caters well to travelers seeking a more intimate, expertly guided Iceland experience that goes beyond the typical bus tour.

If you’re prepared for outdoor conditions, have a sense of adventure, and want to maximize your chances of seeing the Aurora, this tour will likely be a highlight of your Iceland trip.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour? Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off from Reykjavik, making logistics smooth.

How long does the tour last? Approximately 5 hours, starting at 8:00 pm, which is ideal for evening Aurora viewing.

What should I bring? Warm clothing, layered outfits, and bottled water. Hot drinks aren’t provided, so bringing a thermos with hot chocolate is recommended.

Are the photos included? You receive two professionally-edited photos per person, sent via email about 14 days after the tour.

Can I see the Northern Lights every night? Not necessarily. Aurora sightings depend on weather and cloud cover. The guide will choose the best locations based on conditions.

What if the weather is poor? The tour can be canceled or rescheduled. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this suitable for everyone? Most travelers can participate, but it’s best for those comfortable outdoors and dressed warmly.

How many people are in the group? No more than six, ensuring a personal experience.

Do I need any prior experience for glacier hiking? No, the guide will ensure your safety and provide guidance during the hike.

Enjoy your Icelandic adventure, and may your night be filled with dancing Northern Lights and unforgettable icy landscapes!