Northern Lights Tour from Reykjavik in a Super Jeep

The Northern Lights Tour from Reykjavik in a Super Jeep offers a dynamic way to chase the aurora borealis. Priced at $197.18 per person and lasting about 4 hours, this tour takes travelers deep into Iceland’s countryside in a custom-built SUV designed for rugged terrain. It’s a solid choice for those seeking an adventurous, small-group experience with knowledgeable guides and the reassurance of a free rebooking if the lights stay hidden. While weather and atmospheric conditions influence visibility, the tour’s flexibility and expert guidance make it a popular pick for aurora chasers.

This tour is especially suitable for travelers who value off-road access, cozy amenities like hot chocolate and biscuits, and the chance to learn about the northern lights from local guides. It is important to prepare for the weather-dependent nature of the experience and to dress warmly, as Iceland’s nights can be quite chilly.

Key Points

• Adventure in a Super Jeep: Travel through Iceland’s rugged countryside in a custom SUV with monster tires.
• Expert guidance: Local guides share insights into the aurora borealis and Icelandic environment.
• Flexible rebooking policy: If the lights aren’t visible, rebook your tour free of charge (subject to availability).
• Comfort and warmth: Enjoy hot chocolate and biscuits during the tour, with warm outdoor clothing recommended.
• Limited group size: The tour caps at 16 participants, ensuring a more personal experience.
• Weather dependent: The tour can be canceled last-minute due to weather, but full refunds or rebooking are offered.

The Custom-Built Super Jeep for Icelandic Terrain

The tour departs from Reykjavik in a Super Jeep, a vehicle equipped with monster tires measuring over 38 inches (95cm). These vehicles are specially designed to handle Iceland’s rough and snowy terrains, allowing access to remote spots where the northern lights are most visible. The spacious interior ensures comfort, and the high-clearance vehicle can navigate areas inaccessible to standard buses.

While some reviews note that the vehicle looks more like a mini bus than a traditional “Super Jeep,” the emphasis remains on its off-road capability. The small group size (max 16 people) combined with this vehicle makes the experience feel more intimate than larger bus tours.

Meeting Point and Transportation Logistics

The tour begins with a pick-up from centrally located Reykjavik hotels, which can take up to 30 minutes. The return transfer takes you back to the hotel at the end of the approximately 4-hour experience. Travelers staying in Keflavik may face some limitations, as one review noted the absence of a pickup option for rental car parking, so it’s best to confirm your accommodation details in advance.

Learning About the Aurora Borealis from Local Guides

Throughout the tour, a knowledgeable local guide shares insights into why Iceland is one of the world’s most accessible places to see the northern lights. The guides are praised for their dedication, often actively searching for the best spots. In one review, a guide was described as fun and full of facts, making the experience both educational and entertaining.

The guides also explain the science behind the aurora borealis, describing how magnetic storms paint the sky in vibrant shades of green and pink. They are eager to share this natural phenomenon’s secrets, making the experience as enriching as it is exciting.

The Experience of Traveling in a Super Jeep Off-Road

The journey takes you away from Reykjavik’s city lights, heading into Iceland’s countryside where light pollution is minimal. The vehicle’s off-road capabilities allow access to points where the aurora might be more visible, especially if weather conditions are favorable. The bumpy ride can be part of the fun, especially when sitting in the back of the Super Jeep, which is equipped with stairs for easy entry.

Travelers should be prepared for cold outdoor conditions and moderate walking, so good hiking shoes and warm clothing are highly recommended. The bumpy ride and outdoor exposure are part of what makes this tour adventurous, but comfort is prioritized with hot drinks and biscuits offered during the wait.

The Flexibility of Rebooking if the Lights Don’t Appear

One of the main perks of this tour is the ability to rebook at no additional cost if the northern lights aren’t visible during your scheduled outing. This policy is especially valuable given the weather dependence of aurora sightings. If clouds or storms block the view, travelers can simply contact the operator to schedule another night, provided availability.

However, some reviews mention limited rebooking availability if the tour is fully booked, so it’s advisable to communicate clearly and rebook as soon as possible if needed. The full refund option is also available if the tour is canceled due to bad weather, making it a low-risk way to try your luck.

The Food and Warm Drinks on the Tour

During the evening, hot chocolate and biscuits are included, providing a comforting boost against the cold. These small touches are appreciated by travelers, especially on freezing nights. Some reviews mention bringing additional drinks or warm Brennivin as a way to stay warmer while waiting.

While food and other drinks are not included, the refreshments provided and the warmth of the guide’s company add a friendly, cozy element to the experience.

Timing and Pacing of the Tour

The 4-hour duration gives ample time to reach remote viewing spots and enjoy the sky’s display if the aurora appears. The tour typically involves light walking and some bumpy rides, so travelers should be prepared for a moderate pace.

Because the tour starts in the evening and relies on clear skies, flexibility is key. The guide’s efforts to find the best viewing location mean that the actual sighting of the lights can be unpredictable, but the small group setting ensures personalized attention.

Risks and Weather Dependency of the Tour

This experience is weather dependent and can be canceled up until 6:15 pm if conditions are unfavorable. The policy offers full refunds or rebooking options, but it’s important to stay flexible. Stormy or cloudy nights may result in no sighting, despite the guide’s best efforts.

Multiple reviews highlight the unpredictability, but also the professionalism of guides who cancel or rebook to maximize chances of seeing the aurora. Preparation for cold outdoor conditions is essential, regardless of weather forecasts.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Others

The combination of a Super Jeep capable of reaching remote areas, small group size, and expert local guides distinguishes this tour from standard bus excursions. The off-road access allows for more adventurous drives into Iceland’s wilderness, increasing the odds of a sighting in favorable conditions.

The inclusion of hot drinks and the rebooking policy provide comfort and reassurance, especially in unpredictable weather. Some reviews mention dedicated guides who go out of their way to find the best viewing spots, making this tour particularly appealing to those seeking a more personalized experience.

Limitations and Considerations

Although the tour is highly rated overall, some reviews note discrepancies in vehicle descriptions and group sizes that differ from expectations. The vehicle is described as a Super Jeep, but some travelers found it more akin to a mini bus.

Plus, weather conditions heavily influence success, and last-minute cancellations are common. Travelers should dress warmly, be prepared for bumpy rides, and understand that aurora sightings are never guaranteed.

Reykjavik Northern Lights: A Thrilling Chase in a Super Jeep

The Northern Lights Tour from Reykjavik provides an engaging blend of adventure, education, and comfort, with the promise of exploring Iceland’s wilderness in a rugged vehicle. The 4-hour excursion offers a chance to see the aurora borealis while enjoying hot drinks and the company of knowledgeable guides.

While the weather dependence and vehicle descriptions have led to mixed reviews, the tour’s policy of free rebooking and small group size make it a solid choice for aurora enthusiasts. It suits those who appreciate off-road adventures and want a personalized experience away from large crowds.

Travelers should be prepared for cold nights and uncertain sightings, but with the right expectations, this tour can deliver a memorable and exciting night under the northern sky.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, including pick-up, travel, and viewing time.

What is the price per person?
The tour costs $197.18, which includes guided commentary, hot chocolate, and biscuits.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from centrally located Reykjavik hotels with a pick-up included.

What should I wear?
Warm outdoor clothing, waterproof gear, a hat, and gloves are highly recommended due to the cold outdoor conditions.

Can I rebook if I don’t see the lights?
Yes, if the aurora borealis isn’t visible, you can rebook the tour at no extra cost (subject to availability).

Is the vehicle really a Super Jeep?
The vehicle is described as a Super Jeep with monster tires, but some reviews note it resembles more a mini bus.

What if the weather cancels the tour?
Cancellations due to bad weather are common, with options for full refund or rescheduling.

How many people are in a group?
The tour is limited to 16 participants, providing a more intimate experience.

What’s included in the tour?
Guided tour, hot chocolate and biscuits, Reykjavik pickup and return, and an expert guide.

Are meals other than drinks provided?
No, food and drinks besides the included hot chocolate and biscuits are not provided.

Can I do this tour if I stay outside Reykjavik?
Staying outside Reykjavik, like in Keflavik, may complicate pickup arrangements due to limited options.

Would you recommend this tour?
Yes, especially for those seeking adventure, personalized guidance, and a small group setting—but always keep weather forecasts in mind.