Akureyri: Northern Lights Hunt with Forest Lagoon Entry

Akureyri: Northern Lights Hunt with Forest Lagoon Entry — A Complete Guide

If you’re planning a trip to Iceland and want a balanced experience of relaxation and adventure, the Akureyri: Northern Lights Hunt with Forest Lagoon Entry ticks all the boxes. This 5-hour tour combines the magic of Iceland’s winter nights with the comfort of geothermal baths, guided by knowledgeable locals who know where to find the best views of the Aurora Borealis.

What makes this tour especially appealing? First, the chance to unwind in the Forest Lagoon with its natural thermal waters. Second, the personalized Northern Lights hunt in the crisp Icelandic outdoors. And third, the seamless hotel pickup and drop-off that simplifies logistics.

One potential consideration? The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, so sightings cannot be guaranteed, making this a bit of a gamble. That said, the tour’s flexibility and expert guides help maximize the chances, making it a great choice for travelers eager for both relaxation and a shot at the Aurora.

This experience suits those who appreciate a mix of comfort and adventure, especially if you’re after an authentic Icelandic winter night, with the added perk of hassle-free logistics.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Relaxation & Adventure in One: Enjoy thermal baths and a Northern Lights search in one seamless experience.
• Guided Expertise: Knowledgeable guides like those from Saga Travel work hard to find the best viewing spots.
• Flexibility & Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics smooth, especially in winter conditions.
• Natural Setting: The tour takes place in the scenic Eyjafjord area, away from city lights, ideal for Aurora viewing.
• Worth the Investment: Entry to Forest Lagoon and guided Northern Lights hunt offer good value, combining comfort and thrill.
• Weather Dependent: Sightings depend on weather and solar activity, so patience and luck play a role.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins with a pickup from one of nine convenient locations in Akureyri, starting approximately 15 minutes before the scheduled departure. This small detail ensures you won’t have to navigate Icelandic winter roads and can relax knowing transport is taken care of. With a comfortable van, the journey into the Eyjafjord area is a short, scenic drive that sets the tone for the evening.

Forest Lagoon is the first major stop, where guests have two hours of entry to Iceland’s highly rated geothermal baths. The lagoon’s setting is enchanting — surrounded by natural beauty, with warm waters beckoning after a chilly day. Tour reviews highlight how peaceful and rejuvenating this part of the experience is. One guest shared, “The bath was so relaxing, and the natural surroundings made it feel like a secret retreat.”

This isn’t just a swim; it’s a chance to unwind, soak in mineral-rich waters, and potentially catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights if they appear overhead. The lagoon features the usual comforts—towels are provided, and swimwear is recommended (rentals are available on-site).

The Northern Lights Chase

Following the baths, the guide leads a guided search into the Eyjafjord area. This part of the tour can last up to three hours, depending on conditions. Guides like those from Saga Travel are praised for their local knowledge and ability to read weather patterns. They’ll look for clear skies and the best vantage points to increase your chances of seeing the Aurora.

While sightings are never guaranteed due to natural variability, reviews suggest that expert guides do a good job of choosing dark, less light-polluted spots, often resulting in impressive displays. Guests have mentioned that guides like “are passionate about the Aurora and do everything possible to find clear skies,” which can turn a potentially disappointing night into a memorable one.

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Returning & Reflection

Around midnight, the group heads back to their respective hotels. The overall timing is flexible enough to accommodate varying Northern Lights activity, and the experience leaves plenty of room for spontaneous moments of awe under the Arctic sky.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

Guided Expertise & Personalized Attention

Guests commend the knowledge and friendliness of guides, emphasizing how their local insights and weather awareness significantly enhance the experience. Many mention guides’ efforts to find the best viewing spots, which can make all the difference.

The Perfect Balance of Relaxation & Adventure

With 2 hours in the lagoon and 3 hours hunting for the Aurora, this tour covers both leisure and thrill, catering to a variety of traveler preferences. The thermal baths provide a much-needed warm break after being outdoors in cold conditions, making it ideal for those who prefer a mix of comfort and excitement.

Hassle-Free Logistics

The hotel pickup and drop-off make this tour accessible and stress-free, especially in winter when driving in icy conditions can be tricky. This small detail enhances the overall experience, leaving you free to focus on the sights and sensations.

A Scenic Location

The Eyjafjord region is away from bright city lights, creating an ideal backdrop for chasing the Northern Lights. The natural setting, combined with the potential for star gazing and aurora viewing, makes this tour stand out.

Practical Details & What to Bring

Duration: About 5 hours, with flexible starting times based on availability.

Included: Hotel pickup and drop-off, entry to Forest Lagoon, towels, and the Northern Lights hunt.

Not Included: Meals and personal expenses.

What to bring: Warm clothing—think layers and thermal wear—a swimsuit, and a camera to capture the moments. The tour recommends bringing warm clothes for the Northern Lights hunt, as you’ll be outside in potentially very cold weather.

Considerations for Travelers

• Weather & Aurora Visibility: As with all Northern Lights tours, sightings depend heavily on weather and solar activity. Be prepared for the possibility of not seeing the lights, but trust the guides’ expertise.
• Age & Health Restrictions: Not suitable for children under 13, pregnant women, or people with certain health issues.
• Flexibility & Cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which adds peace of mind in case plans change.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

While the tour price includes two hours at the Forest Lagoon and the guided Aurora hunt, it offers much more than just entry tickets. The small-group format, expert guides, and the convenience of hotel pickup contribute to a hassle-free, personalized experience.

The combination of relaxation and adventure makes it a compelling choice for travelers who want to make the most of their Icelandic winter nights without sacrificing comfort. Plus, the natural beauty of the Eyjafjord area provides a stunning backdrop for photography and memories.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for travelers who seek a combination of relaxation and natural wonder. It’s suitable for those who prefer guided tours with local insights and appreciate comfortable facilities like geothermal baths.

However, it’s not ideal for very young children, pregnant women, or individuals with certain health conditions, as the outdoor Northern Lights chase can involve standing outside in cold weather.

If you’re eager for a cozy, well-organized night of Icelandic winter magic—without the hassle of planning transport or missing out on the natural geothermal luxury—this tour is a great pick.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Northern Lights guaranteed on this tour?
Because the Aurora is a natural phenomenon, sightings can’t be promised. Guides will do their best to find clear skies, but weather and solar activity are beyond anyone’s control.

What should I wear for the Northern Lights hunt?
Warm clothing is essential. Layering is recommended, and bringing a hat, gloves, and thermal wear will make the outdoor experience more comfortable.

How long do I spend at Forest Lagoon?
You get approximately two hours to enjoy the geothermal baths, giving ample time to relax and take in the surroundings.

Can I rent swimwear or towels at the Lagoon?
Yes, towels are provided, and swimwear can be rented on-site if you don’t bring your own.

Does the tour include meals?
No, meals are not included, so consider having a hearty breakfast or dinner beforehand.

Is this tour suitable for kids?
It’s recommended for travelers over 13 years old. The outdoor Northern Lights hunt and cold weather may not be suitable for younger children.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

How do I know when the tour starts?
Start times vary depending on availability, so it’s best to check when booking. Pickup begins 15 minutes before the scheduled start.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses a comfortable van, and the small group size ensures a more personalized experience.

Final Thoughts

The Akureyri: Northern Lights Hunt with Forest Lagoon Entry offers a well-rounded experience that combines Iceland’s natural thermal waters with the thrill of chasing the Aurora Borealis. Guided by knowledgeable locals, you’ll feel well looked after as you navigate the winter night landscape. The inclusion of a relaxing swim makes this tour stand out, especially for travelers eager for both comfort and adventure.

The natural beauty of the Eyjafjord area, paired with the expertise of guides and the convenience of hotel pickup, makes this an excellent choice for those new to Iceland or seasoned travelers looking for a memorable night under the Arctic sky. Just remember, patience and a bit of luck are part of the package — but even if the Northern Lights stay hidden, you’ll leave with a sense of accomplishment and peaceful memories of Iceland’s winter charm.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group, this tour offers a balanced mix of relaxation, adventure, and natural spectacle—well worth considering for your Iceland itinerary.

You can check if your dates are available here: