From Reykjavik: Northern Lights Tour

This Northern Lights tour departs from Reykjavik’s BSI bus terminal and offers a 3 to 4-hour journey into Iceland’s Arctic skies for $69 per person. Led by an English-speaking guide, the tour focuses on finding the Aurora Borealis, one of nature’s most captivating displays.

What makes this tour stand out is the rebooking policy—if the lights don’t appear on your first try, you’re welcome to join again free of charge. This flexibility is a major plus for those worried about unpredictable Icelandic weather. The tour is especially suited for travelers who want an affordable, guided experience with a strong chance of witnessing the Northern Lights, although sightings are never guaranteed due to the natural phenomenon’s variability.

Key Points

• Price: $69 per person, including local guide and Wi-Fi on the bus
• Duration: 3 to 4 hours with flexible start times
• Guarantee: Rebook free of charge if no lights are seen on the first attempt
• Departure point: BSI bus terminal in Reykjavik
• Included: Guided bus tour, hot beverages and snacks available for purchase at the start
• Weather dependent: No guarantee of sightings, dress warmly

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The Meeting Point at BSI Bus Terminal in Reykjavik

This tour begins at the BSI bus terminal, a central and easily accessible location in Reykjavik. Travelers are advised to arrive 30 minutes early to ensure a smooth departure. The buses are marked clearly with Reykjavík Excursions, making it simple to identify the right vehicle.

The departure times vary, and availability can be checked in advance. The journey back concludes at the same meeting point, providing a convenient drop-off location near your accommodation. Since the tour is conducted on a bus, comfort and temperature control are maintained, even in the cold Icelandic winter.

Comfort and Convenience on the Bus

The bus used for this tour offers Wi-Fi access, allowing guests to share their photos or check updates while traveling. The seating is designed for comfort during the 3 to 4-hour trip, which involves traveling to various locations to optimize the chance of seeing the Aurora Borealis.

The driver and guide work together to find the best viewing spots, depending on weather conditions and aurora forecast updates. They remain flexible, frequently changing locations if necessary, to maximize the chance of a sighting.

The Guide’s Role in Your Northern Lights Quest

This tour features an English-speaking guide who is knowledgeable about the Northern Lights and Icelandic weather conditions. The guides are praised for their enthusiasm and informative commentary. One review highlights a guide who shared Icelandic songs and provided helpful tips for photographing the Aurora.

Guides also help with camera settings and advice on how to capture the lights, making the experience more rewarding. Their expertise and friendly attitude create a relaxed atmosphere, even in the cold night air.

The Locations Visited and What You Can Expect

The specific stops during the tour depend on the weather and aurora activity, but the goal is always to visit areas with minimal light pollution and clear views of the night sky. Guests are taken to spots where the skies are most promising for Aurora sightings, often in areas away from city glow.

While the tour cannot guarantee sightings because the Aurora Borealis is unpredictable, the strategy of visiting multiple locations on the same night improves the chances. If the lights do appear, they dance across the sky with vibrant colors, creating an unforgettable natural spectacle. Multiple reviews mention long-lasting and breathtaking displays, sometimes visible for over 30 minutes.

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The Rebooking Policy and How It Works

A major advantage of this tour is the free rebooking policy—if the Northern Lights are not seen on the first outing, guests are invited to come again at no extra cost. This policy has earned praise, as it increases the likelihood of experiencing the aurora during your trip.

Guests simply need to inform the guide or tour provider, and they will be accommodated on subsequent nights with no additional fee. Many reviews reveal that this flexibility results in multiple attempts, which significantly boosts the chances of a successful sighting.

What to Wear and Bring for the Tour

Since the tour takes place at night and involves standing outside for extended periods, proper preparation is essential. Guests are advised to dress warmly in multiple layers and wear comfortable shoes suited for cold conditions.

The weather in Iceland can be extremely cold, sometimes reaching -16°C, so thermal clothing and insulated footwear are recommended. On-site, hot beverages and fresh waffles are available for purchase starting at 9:00 PM to help stay warm and enjoy the experience.

How Sightings Are Managed and the Experience Factors

While the tour cannot guarantee sightings, guides are dedicated to finding the best viewing spots based on current weather and aurora activity. Several reviews highlight guides who are enthusiastic, knowledgeable, and willing to share tips for capturing photos or explaining Icelandic legends related to the lights.

Guests often remark on the long duration of the Aurora display when visible, with some reports describing hours-long light shows. Even when the lights are faint or brief, guides work hard to maximize the experience by moving to different locations and providing entertaining commentary.

The Overall Value and Who Will Appreciate This Tour

At $69, this Northern Lights tour offers good value, especially considering the flexible rebooking policy. It suits travelers who want a guided, organized trip with a decent chance of Aurora sightings, without needing to venture into remote areas alone.

The group size and bus comfort make it manageable in cold weather, and the knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with cultural insights and practical advice. Those who enjoy social outdoor experiences and are prepared for winter conditions will find this tour particularly rewarding.

The Sum Up: A Practical Choice for Aurora Seekers

The From Reykjavik: Northern Lights Tour by ICELANDIA provides a straightforward, budget-friendly way to chase the Aurora Borealis. The 3-hour guided bus trip offers flexibility with its rebooking policy, increasing the chances of witnessing the lights despite Iceland’s unpredictable skies.

While sightings are never guaranteed, the tour’s location choices, expert guides, and warm amenities like waffles and hot drinks help create a memorable experience. It’s an excellent option for travelers wanting an organized, reliable Northern Lights adventure that balances affordability and comfort.

This tour appeals most to those who value flexibility, good guidance, and the thrill of hunting for the Aurora in Iceland’s winter wilderness. Prepare adequately for the cold, stay patient, and you might find yourself marveling at the dancing lights overhead.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts between 3 and 4 hours, depending on the timing and conditions on the night.

Where does the tour start?
It departs from the BSI bus terminal in Reykjavik, with 30-minute early arrival recommended.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Since the experience involves standing outside in cold weather, it’s best suited for adults and older children. Dress warmly and be prepared for winter conditions.

Can I join again if I don’t see the lights?
Yes, the rebooking policy allows you to return for free on a subsequent night if you do not witness the Aurora Borealis on your first attempt.

Are refreshments included?
No, refreshments are not included, but hot beverages and waffles are available for purchase starting at 9:00 PM.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, sightings depend heavily on weather conditions and cloud cover, which means the lights may not appear every night.

How do guides enhance the experience?
Guides are knowledgeable and enthusiastic, sharing local legends, giving photo tips, and helping to maximize the viewing experience even when the Aurora is faint.

What should I bring?
Dress in warm layers and comfortable shoes suitable for cold outdoor conditions. Bring a camera or smartphone for photos and stay patient for the best chance to see the Northern Lights.

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