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Taking a Northern Lights tour in Reykjavík, Iceland, is the best way to see this natural phenomenon in the Land of Ice and Fire. While it’s possible to see the Northern Lights in Iceland on your own, booking a guided tour is much better.
This is especially true if it’s your first time in the country and you have no experience hunting for auroras. With a tour, you’ll be accompanied by an expert guide who knows how to predict the Northern Lights and where to go for the highest chances of spotting them.
Of course, even with a guided Northern Lights excursion in Iceland, there is no guarantee that you’ll see the dazzling display. The aurora borealis depends on several key factors, such as weather conditions, solar wind, and KP index. If the primary purpose of your trip is to experience this phenomenon, I encourage you to visit Iceland during the Northern Lights season.
You can also join us on one of the Iceland photography tours we run each year, where we track down auroras and teach you how to photograph this spectacular phenomenon. Our trips are aimed at anyone who loves landscape photography, and they’re pretty intense in terms of shooting hours, so if it sounds like too much for you, I recommend booking a one-night excursion instead. Here are some of the best Northern Lights tours from Reykjavik:
- Best Northern Lights tour in Iceland
- Cheap Northern Lights tour from Reykjavik
- Small group tour to see the Northern Lights in Reykjavík
- Best Iceland Northern Lights excursion for photographers
- Private Northern Lights tour in Iceland
- Northern Lights cruise in Reykjavík, Iceland
- Iceland’s Golden Circle and Northern Lights tour
- Whale-watching and Northern Lights tour in Iceland
- South Coast & Sólheimajökull Northern Lights tour from Reykjavík
- Iceland’s Blue Lagoon and Northern Lights tour from Reykjavík
1. Best Northern Lights tour in Iceland from Reykjavík
First, if you’re looking for one of the best Icelandic Northern Lights tours in Reykjavik, look no further than this excursion. Not only is it an affordable tour, but it also includes access to the Aurora Museum, where you can explore interactive exhibits and learn more about what the Northern Lights are and how they form.
After visiting the museum, you’ll depart from the city and check out some of the best places to see the Northern Lights nearby. Depending on the weather conditions, your guide may prioritize one location.
1. The best Northern Lights tour in Iceland from Reykjavík
I particularly recommend this tour if it’s your first time experiencing the aurora borealis. You won’t have to worry about planning your adventure and monitoring the skies, so you can instead focus on enjoying the show. Plus, you can retake the tour if you don’t see any auroras, so it’s a good idea to book this excursion on the first day of your trip.
- Price: $68/person
- Duration: 4 hours
- Number of participants: 50 per bus (depending on the night, there may be 2, 3 or 4 buses)
- Highlights: Northern Lights viewing and entrance to the Aurora Museum
2. The cheapest Northern Lights tour in Iceland
This tour is the cheapest Northern Lights excursion in Iceland, departing from Reykjavík. A knowledgeable guide will meet you in the city and take you to an area with no pollution so you can witness the aurora.
2. The cheapest Northern Lights tour in Iceland by Sara Delgado
During the tour, you’ll have free time to take pictures, walk around, or simply admire the Dancing Lady in the sky. If you’re on a budget and short on time, this is one of the best excursions from Reykjavik, and you can even retake the tour for free if you don’t have any luck the first time.
3. Small group tour to see the Northern Lights in Reykjavík
Another option is to book this small group tour, especially if you want to enjoy the Northern Lights in a more intimate and relaxed setting.
This particular aurora tour in Reykjavik departs from the city in an exclusive mini-bus. You’ll head to a location with no light pollution where the weather conditions are optimal for spotting the Northern Lights. The tour also includes access to the Aurora Museum, one of the top places to visit in Reykjavik. Keep in mind that the ticket is only valid for the same day of the tour, so make sure you visit the museum in the morning or afternoon.
3. Small group tour to see the Northern Lights in Reykjavík
Like some of the other Northern Lights tours in Iceland, if you don’t have any luck spotting auroras, you can retake the tour for free. This particular excursion gives you 3 years to retake the tour.
- Price: $97/person
- Duration: 4 hours
- Number of participants: 15
- Highlights: Northern Lights viewing in a small group and entrance to the Aurora Museum
4. Best Iceland Northern Lights excursion for photographers
As I mentioned, we organize photography tours to Iceland to hunt auroras every year. In addition to capturing incredible images of the Northern Lights, we visit some gorgeous sites like the Skógafoss and Gullfoss waterfalls, imposing glaciers like Jokulsarlon, the Kerið volcano and other craters, and much more.
Over the course of 9 days, you’ll discover these beautiful attractions and learn how to photograph the Northern Lights. Photographers of all skill levels, as well as photography enthusiasts, are welcome. If you’re interested, check out our guides to the best cameras for photographing the Northern Lights and the best lenses for Northern Lights photography.
4. Best Iceland Northern Lights excursion for photographers
If that type of trip is too demanding for you, but you’d still like to delve into some Northern Lights photography, I recommend this tour. During this Iceland aurora tour, a guide will show you how to snap the perfect picture of the lights so you can bring home a souvenir of your experience. And if the skies don’t cooperate, you can retake the excursion.
- Price: $112/person
- Duration: 4 hours
- Number of participants: 50 per bus (depending on the night, there may be 2, 3 or 4 buses)
- Highlights: Northern Lights viewing, help with photographing the aurora, free photos, and hot drinks/sweets
5. Private Northern Lights tour from Reykjavík, Iceland
If you’re planning a trip as a couple, a private Northern Lights tour from Reykjavik is the perfect choice. For example, this exclusive excursion lets you marvel at the dazzling lights in an intimate environment.
The tour includes pick-up service from your hotel in Reykjavik and an expert guide who will determine the best place to hunt for auroras, depending on the weather forecast.
5. Private Northern Lights tour from Reykjavík, Iceland
This is certainly one of the best options if you want a private Iceland Northern Lights tour, especially if you’re traveling with your special someone. I also recommend looking into the top-rated Northern Lights hotels in Iceland so you can watch the aurora in total privacy.
- Price: $996/per group up to 7
- Duration: 3 hours
- Number of participants: 7
- Highlights: Private Northern Lights tour
6. Northern Lights cruise in Reykjavik, Iceland
For a different kind of experience, consider taking a Northern Lights boat tour from Reykjavík. This excursion will let you see the aurora dancing over the ocean, and it’s pretty special!
The boat sets sail from the port of Reykjavik and travels along the coast of Iceland to an area with a very high probability of aurora activity. It should take just 15-30 minutes to reach the spot, so you won’t have to wait around for the lights to appear.
6. Northern Lights cruise in Reykjavik, Iceland
That said, there’s no guarantee that you’ll see auroras since it depends on the weather. Plus, the sea conditions must be just right for a Northern Lights cruise in Iceland. Don’t worry, though, because if the tour gets cancelled or you don’t see any auroras during the boat ride, you can retake it for free.
We’ve taken several Northern Lights excursions from Reykjavik and we’ve never had a cancellation, so don’t be discouraged!
- Price: $100/person
- Duration: 2.5 hours
- Number of participants: 100
- Highlights: Northern Lights boat tour
7. Iceland’s Golden Circle and Northern Lights tour
The Golden Circle is one of the most popular places in Iceland, so it’s no surprise that some of the best Northern Lights tours from Reykjavik include this attraction. This 2-in-1 excursion is perfect if you’re short on time and want a general idea of the island’s landscapes, with the Dancing Lady as a grand finale.
You’ll start with a tour of some of the most iconic locations in the Golden Circle, such as Gullfoss waterfall, Strokkur geyser, and Þingvellir National Park. The second part of the adventure takes place at night when you’ll hunt for auroras with an expert guide.
7. Iceland’s Golden Circle and Northern Lights tour
This excursion includes transportation but not meals, although there will be a stop in Reykjavik in between so you can grab something to eat. Overall, it’s a consolidated and comprehensive option that gives you an introduction to the Land of Ice and Fire.
- Price: $125/person
- Duration: 9 hours
- Number of participants: 50
- Highlights: Northern Lights viewing and Golden Circle tour
8. Whale-watching and Northern Lights tour in Iceland
Along with seeing the Northern Lights, whale watching in Iceland is one of the most popular activities on the island. You can combine both of these impressive experiences by booking this excursion.
This Iceland Northern Lights tour with whale-watching includes a boat ride to an area with a high probability of cetacean sightings. Keep your eyes peeled for minke whales and humpback whales, as well as dolphins and porpoises.
8. Whale-watching and Northern Lights tour in Iceland
Of course, as with the aurora borealis, there is no guarantee that you’ll see whales during your tour. However, the tour operators in this region have years of experience, and we’ve always been able to spot humpback whales whenever we’ve taken this type of excursion. If you aren’t as lucky, you can retake the tour for free.
After some whale-watching, you’ll head to one of the best places to see the Green Lady. Hands down, this is one of the best Northern Lights tours in Iceland, so it’s well worth the money.
- Price: $172/person
- Duration: 6 hours
- Number of participants: 100
- Highlights: Northern Lights viewing and whale and dolphin-watching
9. South Coast & Sólheimajökull Northern Lights tour from Reykjavík
If you don’t want to limit yourself to a Northern Lights tour in Reykjavík, you can branch out and explore other regions on this excursion, which goes to Iceland’s south coast.
This full-day tour starts with a visit to some of the most beautiful sites in Iceland, such as the Seljalandsfoss waterfall. You’ll also go to the Sólheimajökull glacier, where you can walk on the frozen ground and feel the vibrations of the ice’s movement. Then, you’ll explore Reynisfjara’s black sand beach and famous basalt columns, as well as the cliffs of Reynisdrangar and the Skógafoss waterfall.
9. South Coast & Sólheimajökull Northern Lights tour from Reykjavík
At night, enjoy a warm dinner before embarking on an aurora expedition. Your guide will lead you to a spot with a high probability of auroras so you can watch the dancing lights over the landscape. This is undoubtedly a worthwhile aurora borealis tour in Iceland, especially if you want to see some incredible natural attractions.
- Price: $251/person
- Duration: 16 hours
- Number of participants: 36
- Highlights: Northern Lights viewing, Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, Sólheimajökull glacier, Reynisfjara black sand beach, and other places in southern Iceland
10. Iceland’s Blue Lagoon and Northern Lights tour from Reykjavík
Finally, if you’re more of a laid-back type of person, or you want a break after a few days of exploring the country, consider this tour. In addition to enjoying one of the best Northern Lights tours in Reykjavik, you’ll also get access to the soothing geothermal waters of Iceland’s Blue Lagoon.
The Blue Lagoon is known for its relaxing environment and therapeutic treatments. During your visit, indulge in a silica mud mask for softer skin, or simply relax with a drink while soaking in the waters.
10. Iceland’s Blue Lagoon and Northern Lights tour from Reykjavík
As night falls, you’ll be recharged and ready for an Icelandic Northern Lights excursion. Depending on the weather, your guide will choose a specific location with the most favorable conditions for spotting auroras. If you strike out and don’t end up seeing the Northern Lights, you can retake the tour for free.
Best of all, this Northern Lights trip from Reykjavík includes all transfers, including the return trip from the Blue Lagoon, so you don’t have to worry about transportation.
- Price: $235/person
- Duration: 8 hours
- Number of participants: 10
- Highlights: Northern Lights viewing and access to the Blue Lagoon
Iceland Northern Lights tours from Reykjavik price comparison
The price of a Northern Lights tour in Reykjavik can vary quite a bit. You must take into account things like group size, duration, included meals/snacks, transportation, and any additional activities.
To make it easier to compare all the options above, here is a chart summarizing each tour’s price and highlights:
PRICE | DURATION | PARTICIPANTS | HIGHLIGHTS |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
$68/person | 4 hours | Up 50 people per bus | • Northern Lights |
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$55/person | 3 hours | Up to 50 people | • Northern Lights |
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$97/person | 4 hours | Up to 15 people | • Northern Lights w/ small group |
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$112/person | 4 hours | Up to 50 people per bus | • Northern Lights |
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$996/per group up to 7 | 3 hours | Up to 7 people | • Northern Lights private tour |
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$100/person | 2.5 hours | Up to 100 people | • Northern Lights by boat |
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$125/person | 9 hours | Up to 50 people | • Northern Lights |
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$172/person | 6 hours | Up to 100 people | • Northern Lights |
|
$251/person | 16 hours | Up to 36 people | • Northern Lights |
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$235/person | 8 hours | Up to 10 people | • Northern Lights |
|
BEST NORTHERN LIGHTS TOURS IN REYKJAVIK, ICELAND |
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Whichever excursion you choose, I’m sure your Northern Lights experience in Iceland will be unforgettable!
Is it worth taking an Iceland Northern Lights tour, or can you see them on your own?
If you want to take a Northern Lights day trip in Iceland on your own, I recommend reading through our guide on how to predict the Northern Lights. You’ll also need a rental car in Iceland since you’ll have to drive to an area with minimal light pollution.
On the other hand, if you don’t want to worry about driving in Iceland, you can book a stay in one of the top Northern Lights hotels in Iceland, which will allow you to see the aurora from your accommodation.
Is it worth taking an Iceland Northern Lights tour, or can you see them on your own? by Arturo Monetti
Speaking from experience, I think if you’re a first-time visitor to Iceland or haven’t searched for auroras before, you’re better off booking a Northern Lights excursion in Reykjavik. Driving on the icy roads at night isn’t fun, and without a guide, you might get lost or miss the aurora altogether. So, signing up for a tour is definitely worth it.
Besides, there are all kinds of excursions to choose from, ranging from quick and affordable tours to private day trips and more. And if you don’t have any luck, you can take the tour again for free, so you’ll get your money’s worth.
Organized Northern Lights trips in Iceland
As you’ve probably guessed by now, you’ll maximize your chances of seeing the aurora if you dedicate several nights to it. Fortunately, there are various Northern Lights trips in Iceland that allow you to spend a few days enjoying the landscapes and natural lights.
Our Iceland photo tour is ideal for photographers and those who are passionate about landscape photography, so I must recommend it. If that’s not your cup of tea, there are other multi-day Northern Lights tours from Reykjavík:
- 5-Day Northern Lights tour in Iceland: In addition to enjoying the Northern Lights, this trip lets you admire some of the most breathtaking landscapes and attractions in Iceland, such as the Reykjanes Peninsula, the Blue Lagoon, Hella, the Eyjafjallajökull glacier, the Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, and the Golden Circle. It includes 4 nights’ accommodation with breakfast, transportation, admission tickets, and a guide.
Organized Northern Lights trips in Iceland
- 8-Day Northern Lights tour in Iceland: If you have more time, consider this Northern Lights tour from Reykjavik. You’ll get to know the city, as well as the Saga Valley, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, the Golden Circle, southern Iceland, Skaftafell National Park, and the Blue Lagoon. It includes 7 nights’ accommodation with breakfast, transportation, admission tickets, and a guide.
These organized excursions to see the Northern Lights of Iceland take the guesswork and planning off your shoulders, so you don’t have to worry about anything, not even driving. In addition, you’ll have the advantage of an expert guide, so your chances of spotting the aurora are considerably higher.
Another option is to stay in a specialized hotel for viewing the Northern Lights in Iceland. These hotels are located far from cities and have terraces or even bedrooms where you can watch the aurora borealis. It’s definitely one of the best places to stay in Iceland, especially if you want an unforgettable experience or don’t want to take a tour.
FAQs – Iceland Northern Lights tours
You should have all the information you need about aurora borealis tours in Reykjavik, but if you still have doubts, here are the answers to the most frequently asked questions:
When is the best time to take a Northern Lights tour in Iceland?
Iceland’s Northern Lights season runs from late August to mid-April. The best time to take an aurora tour in Iceland is the second week of September or the first week of April to coincide with the new moon.
How far in advance should I book an Iceland Northern Lights excursion?
Iceland’s aurora borealis tours are very popular, so I recommend booking your spot at least 3 months in advance, especially if you’re going in September or April.
What if I don't see the Northern Lights during a Reykjavík aurora tour?
Many Northern Lights tours in Reykjavik, including most of the ones in this guide, allow you to retake the tour for free if you don’t see any auroras the first time.
What should I wear on a Reykjavik Northern Lights tour?
These tours take place at night, so you’ll want to dress in warm layers to stay comfortable. Wool socks, gloves, a hat, hiking boots/shoes, and a winter coat are necessities.
How long does an Iceland Northern Lights tour from Reykjavik last?
You can find Northern Lights tours from Reykjavík, Iceland, that last just a couple of hours or an entire day.
Can kids take an aurora borealis tour in Reykjavik?
Yes. Most Northern Lights excursions in Iceland are suitable for children ages 8 and up.
Are the Northern Lights tours in Iceland suitable for people with limited mobility?
Yes. Unless stated otherwise, people with reduced mobility can take an aurora tour in Reykjavik, Iceland. Be aware that any additional activities on the tour may not be suitable.
What if I can’t take the Northern Lights excursion?
You can receive a full refund if you cancel your excursion up to 24 hours in advance.
Will the tour guides take free photos for me during the tour?
Only some Northern Lights tours in Iceland include free photos. If you want souvenir photos to bring home, you should book a photography tour like this one.
Do the guides teach you how to take photos of the Northern Lights?
If you want to learn how to take landscape photos during your Northern Lights excursion in Reykjavik, I recommend booking this tour or our Iceland photo tour.
Now, you’re ready to choose the best Northern Lights tour in Reykjavík, Iceland! While this natural phenomenon depends on things like solar activity and cloud cover, you’ll be in good hands with a guided tour. And if you don’t see the aurora the first time around, you can most likely retake the tour for free!
If you have any other questions about these Northern Lights excursions in Iceland, leave a comment below. I’d also love to hear about your experience.
Enjoy the Northern Lights in Reykjavik!
Myself and my friend are very much interested to go to escorted 8 days tour in Iceland to watch Northern lights in Fen 2024.
Can you get in touch with me to organise it.
Thank you
Hi,
That sounds like a fantastic trip! You can organize that 8-day Northern Lights excursion by following the link and booking a spot.