Northern Lights Night Tour from Reykjavik

Watching the Northern Lights is one of Iceland’s most mesmerizing natural displays, and Gray Line Iceland’s Northern Lights Night Tour from Reykjavik offers a well-organized way to catch this spectacular phenomenon. Priced at $73.52 per person, this 3 to 5-hour tour departs from Reykjavik and takes travelers deep into the countryside, away from city lights, to maximize the chances of seeing the aurora borealis. The tour includes pickup service, a professional guide, WiFi onboard, and a free rebooking option if the lights are not visible.

While sightings are always dependent on weather and solar activity, this tour’s flexibility to rebook free of charge provides reassurance. The tour is suited for those who want a guided experience with knowledgeable guides, and the option to take photos with guide tips. It’s a popular choice, with over 10 bookings last month, though some reviews highlight that weather can cancel the trip, making it a bit of a gamble.

Key Points

• Price: $73.52 per person, with options for a free rebook if no lights are seen
• Duration: Approximately 3 to 5 hours
• Departure Point: Reykjavik, Iceland, with pickup included
• Expert Guides: Explain the science and myths behind the aurora
• Optimal Viewing: Head into Iceland’s countryside to escape light pollution
• Photography Tips: Guides offer advice on capturing the lights with your camera

The Flexible Location Choice for Aurora Hunting

The tour does not stick to a fixed location; instead, each night’s destination is chosen based on weather and aurora forecast conditions. This adaptive approach is coordinated by expert guides who aim to find the best possible viewing spots that are free from urban light pollution. The flexibility means that the group might visit several different sites, increasing the likelihood of a successful sighting.

This adaptive method is a strength, but it also means that the exact stop points vary daily. Guides are knowledgeable in reading weather patterns and aurora forecasts, which helps optimize the chances of witnessing the Northern Lights. The goal is to give participants the best opportunity to see the dancing lights, though since the Aurora Borealis is a natural phenomenon, sightings are never guaranteed.

The Scenic Journey into Iceland’s Countryside

Once outside Reykjavik, the tour takes you into remote areas with dark skies ideal for aurora viewing. The air-conditioned coach provides comfort, while WiFi on board allows for quick photo uploads or sharing the moment instantly. The routes often include stops at selected locations with excellent visibility, with the guide providing insights into the science behind the lights and Icelandic myths.

Some stops may be at sea walls or spots with no light pollution, which enhance the visual experience. The drive itself is part of the adventure, as the scenery shifts from urban to wilderness, and the dark Icelandic skies set the perfect backdrop for the aurora.

The Guide’s Role in Aurora Viewing and Photography

The tour features professional guides with deep knowledge of aurora forecasting and photography. Guides like Maria and Hulda are praised for their ability to explain how the lights form, their storytelling skills, and their vigilance in spotting the best times to look skyward.

Guides also offer photography tips, helping guests set up their cameras or smartphones to capture the shimmering displays. Their expertise is especially valuable because lighting conditions can change quickly, and knowing when and where to look makes a difference in capturing memorable photos.

The Rebooking Policy and Weather-Dependent Nature

The tour’s free rebooking policy is a significant benefit, especially given the unpredictable Icelandic weather. If the skies are cloudy or the lights do not appear, guests can reschedule without extra cost. The tour provider guarantees a rebooking opportunity, emphasizing their commitment to giving everyone a fair chance to see the aurora.

However, the natural variability means that sightings cannot be guaranteed, so travelers should be prepared for the possibility of cancellation. In cases of adverse weather or poor forecast, the entire tour might be canceled, and a full refund is offered.

Logistics: Pickup, Drop-off, and Group Size

The pickup service is coordinated to start about 30 minutes before the scheduled departure, with hotel drops at the end of the tour. The maximum group size is 100 travelers, which helps keep the experience comfortable and manageable. Travelers are advised to dress warmly, as the evenings can be cold, especially when waiting outside the coach.

The timing allows for enough darkness to see the lights, and the driver and guide work together to keep the group moving to the most promising viewing spots based on the latest weather updates.

Cost-Effectiveness and Value

The $73.52 price point offers a cost-effective way to experience the Northern Lights with an expert guide, multiple stops, and the convenience of hotel pickup. The WiFi onboard is an added bonus, enabling instant sharing of photos and updates. The rebooking option adds value, especially considering the unpredictability of sightings.

Nevertheless, the overall experience hinges on natural conditions, which means some travelers may not see the aurora despite the tour’s efforts. Those seeking a guaranteed sighting might need to consider the risks and understand the natural limitations.

What Travelers Say About Their Experience

The tour generally receives mixed reviews; many highlight the guides’ knowledge, their ability to find good viewing spots, and the beauty of the lights when they do appear. Guides like Oliver are praised for their explanations and vigilance in helping guests photograph the lights.

Some reviews mention unlucky weather conditions leading to cancellations, which is common for aurora tours. There are also reports of poor communication or delays at pickup from some guests, but these seem to be exceptions rather than the rule. The option to rebook is highly appreciated, providing an opportunity to try again without additional cost.

Notable Tips for Booking and Participation

Dressing warmly in layered clothing is essential, especially since waiting outside can be cold. Guests are encouraged to arrive early for pickup to avoid missing the tour. Since sightings depend heavily on weather, travelers should keep flexible plans and be prepared for cancellations.

Choosing this tour is best for those interested in a guided experience with knowledgeable staff, and who don’t mind the chance of no lights. The free rebooking policy makes it a worthwhile option for those who want to maximize their chances without extra expense.

The Experience of the Guides and Their Stories

Guides like Maria, Hulda, and Oliver are noted for their friendly, informative, and attentive style. They often explain how the aurora forms and share Icelandic myths, enriching the experience beyond just waiting for the lights. Their vigilance helps optimize the viewing conditions for the group, making the experience more engaging and educational.

The Overall Value of the Tour

This Northern Lights Night Tour from Reykjavik offers a balanced mix of comfort, expertise, and flexibility. For $73.52, travelers receive a guided pursuit of the aurora, with multiple stops, WiFi, and a free rebooking if no lights are seen. The tour’s success largely depends on weather conditions, but the professional guides and adaptive route planning improve the odds.

The tour suits those who value guidance and insider knowledge over just blindly chasing the lights, or who want the reassurance of free rebooking. It’s less suitable for travelers seeking a guaranteed sighting or those with very limited time, given the unpredictable nature of aurora activity.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the tour choose its locations each night?
The tour departs from Reykjavik and visits different remote spots based on weather forecasts and aurora predictions, aiming to find the clearest skies and best viewing conditions.

What is included in the price?
The $73.52 fee includes hotel pickup, a professional guide, an air-conditioned coach, WiFi onboard, and a free rebooking policy if the lights are not visible.

Can I get photos of the Northern Lights?
Yes, guides offer tips on camera setup to help travelers capture good photos. The dark countryside and guides’ advice enhance the chances of memorable images.

What if the weather is cloudy or the lights don’t appear?
The tour offers a complimentary rebooking for another evening if no lights are seen due to weather or solar activity. If the tour is canceled due to weather, a full refund is available.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 3 to 5 hours, depending on conditions and how long the group stays at each spot.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but warm clothing is essential. The outdoor waiting may be uncomfortable for very young children or those sensitive to cold.

What are the reviews like?
The tour has a 3.5-star rating from around 1,911 reviews. Many praise the guides’ knowledge and the beauty of the auroras, though some note weather-related cancellations.

How do I book this tour?
Booking can be done online through Viator or directly with Gray Line Iceland. The confirmation is immediate, and pickups are arranged with detailed instructions.

Is this tour worth the price?
Considering the expert guidance, multiple stops, and rebooking guarantee, many find the price reasonable for a guided aurora chase. However, remember that seeing the lights depends on natural conditions.

What should I wear for this tour?
Dress warmly in layers, including hats, gloves, and thermal clothing, as part of the experience involves waiting outside in cold weather.

Can this tour be canceled due to weather?
Yes, if poor weather or cloud cover prevents sightings, the tour can be canceled, with full refunds or rescheduling offered within the policy guidelines.