From Reykjavík: Northern Lights Tour with Hot Cocoa & Photos

Planning a trip to Iceland usually involves dreaming about the elusive Northern Lights. While the auroras are a natural phenomenon and can’t be guaranteed, this tour from Reykjavík offers a thoughtful, comfortable way to maximize your chances and enjoy the spectacle in a relaxed setting. With warm transportation, expert guides, and a touch of Icelandic hospitality, it’s a popular choice for travelers looking to add a bit of magic to their Iceland itinerary.

What we love about this experience is how it combines comfort and authenticity. The heated minibus means you won’t freeze waiting in the cold, plus the complimentary hot chocolate and photos add a personal touch. The flexibility to rebook if the lights don’t appear is also a major plus, giving peace of mind. However, keep in mind that Northern Lights sightings depend heavily on weather conditions, so clear skies are not guaranteed. This tour is ideal for those who want a balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and a good shot at seeing the auroras.

Good To Know

• Comfortable Transport: Heated minibus with cozy seating and scenic drives.
• Expert Guidance: Guides with local knowledge help optimize your chances.
• Photo Package: Complimentary digital photos of you against the auroras.
• Flexible Booking: Free rebooking if the lights don’t show.
• Includes Hot Chocolate: Warm drinks to keep you cozy during the wait.
• Ideal for Light Seekers: Perfect for those wanting a relaxed, well-organized tour.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting from Reykjavík and the Pickup Process

The tour begins with a hotel pickup around central Reykjavík, starting at 9:00 PM. The pickup might take up to 30 minutes depending on how many guests need to be collected, which is typical for small-group tours. The convenience of being picked up from your accommodation is a real bonus, saving you from navigating public transport late at night or worrying about parking.

Once onboard, the heated minibus offers a comfortable ride out of the city lights, which is essential because light pollution makes spotting the auroras from Reykjavík itself tricky. The drive typically lasts around 1.5 hours, during which guides often share fascinating facts about the Northern Lights, Icelandic folklore, and the local environment—making the journey as engaging as the destination.

Searching for the Perfect Viewing Spot

The key part of the tour is finding the best viewing location, which is based on real-time weather forecasts, cloud coverage, and aurora activity. Guides are well-versed in reading weather data and use this knowledge to drive to areas with the clearest skies. Reviewers have noted that guides like Nelu and Iskren go above and beyond, adjusting plans to maximize chances of aurora sightings.

One guest mentioned that after about an hour of driving, they finally stepped out of the van to see the auroras dancing overhead—a moment made even more special knowing the guides are actively seeking clear skies. Guides also capture complimentary digital photos of you against the stunning celestial backdrop, which are shared afterward, allowing you to relive the magic without fumbling with your camera.

The Experience at the Viewpoint

Once the team finds a promising spot, you’ll have around an hour to gaze at the sky. This time allows for plenty of aurora watching, taking photos, and simply soaking in the beauty of the shimmering lights. The display can vary from ethereal green waves to shades of pink, with occasional hints of red or violet, depending on solar activity and atmospheric conditions.

While the auroras are unpredictable, reviewers like Jack and Susan describe their experiences as magical and well worth the effort. Jack shared that after a last-minute booking, the guide went above and beyond, ensuring they had a perfect view, which highlights the guide’s dedication. Even if the lights are shy, the cozy setting, hot cocoa, and friendly guides make the experience enjoyable.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Warm Drinks and a Touch of Comfort

A standout feature of this tour is the hot chocolate served during the viewing. Icelandic hot cocoa is a delightful treat that adds warmth and comfort, especially on chilly nights. Guides also offer a chocolate bar, which is perfect for those moments of anticipation or as a little energy boost before heading back into the cold.

The Rebooking and Guarantee

One of the biggest advantages is the free rebooking option if the Northern Lights don’t appear. Multiple reviewers, including Kari, appreciated this flexibility, especially after nights that looked promising but yielded no show. The ability to try again on another night, often with clear communication from the provider, reduces the risk of disappointment.

Transportation, Duration, and Group Size

The tour lasts approximately 3.5 hours, with about 1.5 hours of driving, a 1-hour stop at the viewing location, and time for pickup and drop-off. The small-group setting creates a more intimate atmosphere, and the minibus size is manageable enough for personalized attention from guides like Alex and Maggie.

Regarding price, at $111 per person, this tour offers good value considering the included hot cocoa, photos, and the transportation out of the city. It’s a more comfortable alternative to standing in the cold and a better experience than larger, less personalized excursions.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who prefer comfort and convenience, value the chance to see the Northern Lights with expert guidance, and don’t want to worry about weather unpredictability. It’s ideal for those new to aurora hunting, families, or couples seeking a cozy night under the stars. If you’re looking for a flexible, well-organized adventure with great reviews for guides and scenery, this tour ticks those boxes.

Final Thoughts on the Experience

This Northern Lights tour from Reykjavík is a dependable choice for travelers eager to see the auroras without sacrificing comfort. The warm transport, hot chocolate, and free photos make it a memorable way to spend an evening, especially when combined with attentive guides who are dedicated to helping you catch a glimpse of this natural wonder.

While it’s important to remember that the auroras are a natural phenomenon beyond anyone’s control, the tour’s flexibility and the professionalism of guides like Nelu and Alex ensure you’ll have a good shot at witnessing the display. The small-group format fosters a relaxed environment, making it easier to ask questions and enjoy the experience without feeling crowded.

This tour offers excellent value for money considering the inclusions and the personalized service. It’s best suited for travelers who want a hassle-free, cozy, and scenic Northern Lights experience, especially if they’re visiting Iceland for a short time or want to avoid the unpredictability of more rustic excursions.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
Pickup begins around 9:00 PM, and the tour duration is approximately 3.5 hours. Be ready at your designated pickup location on time for a smooth start.

Is it necessary to bring warm clothing?
Yes, you should bring weather-appropriate and warm clothing. Temperatures can drop significantly at night, and you’ll be outside for some time.

What does the tour include?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional guide, complimentary digital photos, and hot chocolate. Accommodation is not included.

Can I rebook if I don’t see the lights?
Absolutely. If the auroras don’t appear during your scheduled tour, you can rebook another night free of charge.

What’s the benefit of the small-group format?
Smaller groups mean more personalized attention from guides, better chances to move to optimal viewing spots, and a more relaxed atmosphere.

Are the photos of high quality?
Guides take complimentary digital photos of guests against the auroras, which are often praised for capturing the moment well. They provide a nice souvenir of your night.

The Sum Up

This tour from Reykjavík offers a comfortable, flexible, and well-guided way to chase the Northern Lights, making it ideal for travelers who prioritize ease and authenticity. The combination of expert guides, scenic drives, cozy hot chocolate, and free photos ensures a memorable experience, even if the auroras decide to put on a shy show. Its value lies in the personalized attention and peace of mind that you’ll have multiple chances to see the lights without feeling rushed or hurried.

Perfect for first-time visitors, couples, or anyone who simply wants a stress-free evening under Iceland’s starry skies, this tour balances adventure with comfort. While nature ultimately decides whether you’ll catch the auroras, this experience maximizes your odds and creates a warm, friendly setting to enjoy one of Iceland’s most iconic sights.

Overall, if you’re eager for a relaxed yet potentially spectacular Northern Lights adventure, this tour is a smart choice. Just remember to dress warmly, keep your hopes high, and enjoy the journey—whatever the sky decides to show you.

You can check if your dates are available here: