From Reykjavik: New Year’s Eve Northern Lights Tour

Discover the New Year’s Eve Northern Lights Tour from Reykjavik for $182

This 5-hour guided tour from Reykjavik offers a unique way to celebrate New Year’s Eve while searching for the elusive Northern Lights. Priced at $182 per person, the tour is designed for those eager to witness this spectacular natural phenomenon away from city lights. The tour includes warm blankets, self-serve hot beverages and cookies, and offers opportunities for stargazing. Its flexible nature means the exact location depends on weather and aurora activity, making each experience different.

The tour departs from various Tour Bus Stops in downtown Reykjavik and other select hotels nearby. Group sizes can reach 30-40 people, ensuring a lively but intimate atmosphere. It’s important to note that pickup and drop-off are included within Reykjavik, and the tour duration may adjust if the aurora appears early or if additional stops are needed. This adventure appeals most to those comfortable with outdoor climates and seeking an authentic, cozy Northern Lights hunt on New Year’s Eve.

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Key Points

• Guided group tour from Reykjavik with pickup and drop-off included
• Duration of 5 hours, with flexible start times based on availability
• Price set at $182 per person, with full refund available if canceled 24 hours in advance
• Includes blankets, self-serve hot chocolate, cookies, and photography setup
• Tour location varies based on cloud coverage and aurora activity
• No photos are taken without aurora, but guides assist with group photos

How the Tour Meets the Night Sky Outside Reykjavik

This Northern Lights tour starts at convenient meeting points in downtown Reykjavik, with options at other nearby hotels. The pickups typically take between 45 minutes to an hour, so being ready on time helps ensure a smooth start. Once underway, the journey heads outside city limits to minimize light pollution, optimizing the chances of spotting the aurora borealis. The final stop location depends on real-time cloud coverage and aurora activity, and guides prioritize the best possible spots.

Traveling outside Reykjavik means shorter drives, but the end location isn’t fixed—it’s a game of patience and luck, often involving several stops. The guides are experienced in reading the sky and will choose locations believed to have the clearest view, sometimes staying at a single spot longer if the lights are visible. This flexibility is crucial, as the Northern Lights are known for their elusive nature.

What the Experience Includes for a Cozy Night Under the Stars

As the tour searches for the aurora, guides set up their cameras to take group photos, ensuring everyone gets a chance for a memorable shot. In the meantime, guests curl up in warm blankets provided by the tour, enjoying the self-serve hot chocolate and cookies. The cozy setup turns waiting into a relaxing experience, with opportunities to stargaze in the clear Icelandic skies.

Photographs are generally shared within 7 days via a drop box link sent by email, allowing for easy access to your special moments. The guides aim to make the wait as comfortable as possible, knowing that aurora sightings depend greatly on weather conditions.

The Impact of Weather and Aurora Activity

This tour is dependent on weather, with a decision made by 5 PM daily about whether the tour runs. If cloud coverage or poor aurora activity prevent sightings, the tour will be canceled, and guests receive a full refund if they cancel 24 hours in advance. The dynamic nature of the Icelandic sky means that timing and location are key to success, and flexibility is essential.

Guides are experienced in assessing local conditions and will do their best to find clear spots, sometimes requiring several stops. The uncertainty adds to the fun, as each outing offers a different experience, and the hope of witnessing the aurora borealis on New Year’s Eve makes the effort worthwhile.

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The Role of Guides and Group Dynamics

The team behind this tour is led by David The Guide Iceland, a family of adventure-loving guides committed to sharing Iceland’s natural wonders. The guides are knowledgeable, friendly, and focused on helping everyone capture photos and enjoy the experience. They are equipped to handle the logistics of outdoor winter conditions and create a warm, convivial atmosphere despite the outdoor setting.

Their storytelling style and camera skills help make the hunt for the Northern Lights both exciting and comfortable. The group size fosters a lively but manageable environment, perfect for those seeking a personal connection with guides and fellow travelers.

Practical Details and What to Bring

Travelers should dress warmly, as outdoor winter conditions can be cold, especially late at night. The tour includes blankets, but layering with thermal clothing is highly recommended. Since pickup is only within Reykjavik, guests staying outside the city should arrange to meet at the designated locations.

The tour is suitable for all ages, and infant seats are available at no extra cost. If traveling with children under 6 years old, contact the tour provider in advance to arrange car seats. The duration of 5 hours allows ample time for the search and waiting periods, making it a comfortable outing despite the late-night timing.

Comparing This Tour to Similar Icelandic Experiences

This Northern Lights tour emphasizes flexibility and comfort, with self-serve hot beverages and warm blankets included. Unlike some tours that may have fixed routes or locations, this experience adapts to real-time weather conditions to maximize the chance of seeing the aurora.

While it does not include professional photography without the aurora, guides assist with group photos and camera setups, ensuring everyone leaves with memorable images. Its family-friendly approach and relaxed pace make it ideal for travelers wanting a cozy, flexible adventure on New Year’s Eve.

The Sum Up: A Cozy, Flexible Way to Ring in the New Year

The From Reykjavik: New Year’s Eve Northern Lights Tour offers an excellent way to celebrate New Year’s in Iceland, combining nature, comfort, and flexibility. For $182, you receive a well-organized experience that includes warm blankets, hot drinks, cookies, and guidance in chasing the aurora borealis. The group size and local guides enhance the experience, making it approachable for families and solo travelers alike.

While the aurora’s visibility depends on weather conditions, the tour’s flexible approach and expert guides improve your odds of witnessing this stunning display. This tour is perfect for those who want a relaxed, outdoor adventure with a good chance of celebrating the new year under Iceland’s starry skies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour offers infant seats at no extra cost and is appropriate for children, especially with warm clothing and blankets.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring warm clothing suitable for outdoor winter weather, as the experience takes place outside with blankets provided.

Does the tour include photography?
The guides help set up their cameras for photos of the group, but no photos are taken without aurora. Photos are shared later via drop box within 7 days.

Can I cancel if the weather is poor?
Yes, the tour can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The decision to run depends on weather and aurora conditions.

Where does the tour start?
The tour departs from downtown Reykjavik and other select hotels nearby. Pickup times are confirmed upon booking.

Is the location predetermined?
No, the final stop location varies based on cloud coverage and aurora activity, with guides choosing the best spots at the moment for optimal viewing.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby