Award Winning Northern Lights Small Group Tour with Photos

Experience Iceland’s Best Northern Lights Tour Led by a Skilled Photographer

This award-winning small-group tour in Reykjavik offers an intimate and personalized Northern Lights adventure for $212 per person. With a 93% sighting rate, it is a top choice for those eager to experience the Aurora Borealis in comfort and style. The tour lasts approximately 4 to 6 hours, starting at 8:00 pm, and includes pick-up services from select Reykjavik locations, making it convenient to join.

The key feature of this tour is its small group size—no more than 18 guests—which ensures a cozy atmosphere and plenty of individual attention. Led by a highly experienced local photographer and guide, the experience combines expert guidance with professional photography, giving you stunning images of the Northern Lights to remember your trip. The tour’s strong reputation is reflected in its Travelers Choice and Best of the Best awards, and its flexible guarantee of unlimited re-runs if the lights don’t appear.

While the cost is higher than some other options, the inclusion of unlimited professional photos, warm gear, and snacks adds exceptional value. The tour’s focus on location scouting based on weather and geomagnetic forecasts increases the likelihood of a successful Aurora sighting, making it ideal for those seeking a reliable and premium Northern Lights experience.

Key Points

• Small group setting of up to 18 guests for personalized attention
• 93% sighting rate with unlimited re-runs if the Aurora Borealis doesn’t appear initially
• Led by an expert local photographer, ensuring high-quality photos and insightful guidance
• Comfortable gear provided, including warm jumpsuits, outdoor chairs, and tripods
• Includes traditional Icelandic snacks and drinks like hot chocolate, cinnamon rolls, dried fish, and Icelandic vodka
• Convenient pick-up and drop-off from select Reykjavik locations

Departure Point and Timing in Reykjavik

This tour departs from Reykjavik at 8:00 pm, with pick-up available from designated locations in the city. The 4 to 6-hour duration makes it suitable for an evening activity, leaving plenty of time for other plans during your stay. Confirmations are received immediately upon booking, allowing for quick planning.

The tour operates most nights during Aurora season, with the flexibility of unlimited re-runs if weather conditions obscure the lights. Being well-informed about the weather forecast and geomagnetic activity helps maximize your chances of witnessing the Northern Lights in their full glory.

From Reykjavík to the Dark Icelandic Wilderness

Leaving the city behind, the tour heads into Iceland’s southern region—away from light pollution—to find the best viewing spots. The guide, a professional photographer, customizes the journey based on weather and cloud cover, ensuring the most promising locations are selected each night.

Travelers are transported in a comfortable vehicle equipped with WiFi, making it easy to stay connected or share photos in real-time. The journey is designed to be scenic, with chances to pass some of Iceland’s most breathtaking natural landscapes while listening to insights shared by the guide about the local area.

The Role of the Expert Guide and Photographer

The guide, with deep knowledge of the Aurora Borealis, plays a central role in maximizing your viewing experience. He sets up camera equipment and assists with camera settings, ensuring you get high-resolution photos of the dancing lights. Guests benefit from unlimited professional photos, which are taken with high-quality equipment and include in the tour package.

The guide also educates about the Northern Lights, sharing insights into the science behind the phenomenon and the best practices for capturing images. His friendly demeanor and responsiveness foster a relaxed, engaging atmosphere that makes the wait enjoyable, especially as snacks like hot chocolate, cinnamon rolls, and Icelandic vodka keep everyone warm and energized.

The Comfort Gear and Amenities Enhancing the Experience

The tour emphasizes comfort and convenience. Each guest is provided with warm jumpsuits to shield against the cold, ensuring comfort while outdoors. The supply of outdoor chairs allows for relaxed viewing, and tripods are available for photography enthusiasts seeking steady shots of the Aurora.

Plus, the vehicle is equipped with WiFi, so guests can stay connected or share their experience with friends. The hot cocoa, snacks, and drinks—including traditional Icelandic delicacies—are a thoughtful touch, making the waiting period cozy and sociable.

The Locations and Scenic Stops in the Icelandic Wilderness

The tour’s first stop is in the Southern Region, where the guide chooses a dark, open area with minimal light pollution—ideal for Aurora viewing. This location allows for clear, unobstructed views of the night sky, essential for experiencing the Aurora Borealis at its best.

Depending on conditions, the guide may take guests to different spots, always aiming for optimal visibility. These locations often feature striking natural landscapes, providing stunning backdrops for photos and a peaceful setting away from urban lights.

On-Location Experience and Photo Opportunities

Once at the designated spot, the guide sets up camera equipment and assists guests in adjusting their camera settings to capture images of the Aurora. The professional high-res photos are a highlight, giving guests beautiful mementos of their night.

Guests have ample time to enjoy the lights as they dance across the sky, with the guide often providing insights about the phenomenon. If the Aurora appears vibrant and active, the group can spend extended periods outside, taking multiple shots or just soaking in the view.

Reassurance of the Tour’s Flexibility: Unlimited Re-runs

A standout feature of this award-winning tour is its guarantee of unlimited re-runs if the Aurora Borealis doesn’t appear during the initial attempt. This policy ensures no disappointment due to weather or geomagnetic conditions, as the guides will continue to seek the best opportunities on subsequent nights if available.

This approach has earned positive feedback in reviews, as it removes stress and provides peace of mind for guests eager to see the lights, regardless of early setbacks.

Prices, Inclusions, and Booking Considerations

At $212 per person, this tour offers a premium experience with all-inclusive features. The price covers small group size, expert guiding, professional photography, snacks and drinks, and gear like jumpsuits and tripods.

Most bookings are made 52 days in advance, indicating strong interest and a need for early reservation. The tour includes pickup and drop-off services in Reykjavik and is suitable for most travelers, with most participants able to join.

Customer Feedback: Highlights and Common Praise

Review data shows an average rating of 4.6 out of 5, with many emphasizing the knowledge and friendliness of guide Heimir. Guests frequently mention the excellent photography, scenic locations, and generous snacks.

Positive comments highlight the guide’s responsiveness, transparency, and passion, making the experience both educational and fun. Several reviews also mention that the weather conditions aligned perfectly, resulting in spectacular displays of the Aurora.

On the downside, there are rare cases of last-minute cancellations due to unforeseen circumstances, but the full refund policy and re-run guarantee are designed to mitigate disappointment.

Final Thoughts on the Northern Lights Small Group Tour

This premium tour stands out for its small group size and expert guiding, offering a personalized and comfortable Aurora Borealis experience. The professional photography and warm gear ensure guests leave with lasting memories, both visual and experiential.

Ideal for adventurers seeking reliability and quality, this tour suits those willing to invest for a high likelihood of seeing the lights and enjoying top-notch amenities. While a higher price point, the unlimited re-runs and personalized service make it a worthwhile choice for serious Aurora enthusiasts.

In summary, this tour combines expert guidance, high-quality photos, and comfort-focused amenities to deliver a memorable Icelandic adventure that is hard to match, provided weather conditions cooperate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s designed for those comfortable outdoors in cold weather and able to sit in outdoor chairs for extended periods.

What should I bring for the tour?
Comfortable winter clothing is recommended, though the tour provides warm jumpsuits. Bringing a good camera can enhance your photos if you prefer to shoot without the guide’s equipment.

What happens if the Aurora Borealis doesn’t appear?
The tour guarantees unlimited re-runs, so if the lights are not visible initially, the guide will take you out again on future nights, subject to availability.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. If canceled less than 24 hours before, the payment is non-refundable.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings happen about 52 days ahead, so early reservation is advisable to secure a spot, especially during peak Aurora season.