Northern Lights Minibus Tour with Free Photos & Hot Chocolate

Discover Reykjavik’s Best Northern Lights Minibus Tour with Free Photos and Hot Chocolate

The Northern Lights Minibus Tour offered by Troll Expeditions provides a straightforward yet engaging way to chase Iceland’s elusive aurora borealis. For $113.96 per person, the tour lasts around 4 hours and departs from Reykjavík, with pickup and drop-off included from most hotels. The tour stands out with its small group size—a maximum of 18 people—and the promise of complimentary digital photos of you with the northern lights, captured by your guide.

While the unpredictable nature of the aurora borealis means a sighting isn’t guaranteed, this tour maximizes your chances by taking you out of the city lights to the best viewing spots based on the weather conditions that day. The experience is suitable for most travelers, especially those comfortable with cold weather, as hot chocolate and snacks are provided to keep everyone warm while waiting for the lights to appear.

Key Points

• 4-hour minibus tour designed to increase your chances of seeing the northern lights from Reykjavík
• Pickup and drop-off from most Reykjavik hotels included for convenience
• Small groups with a maximum of 18 travelers for a personalized experience
• Complimentary digital photos of the aurora and yourself, taken by the guide
• Hot chocolate and snacks, including Hraun Icelandic Chocolate bar, help keep you warm
• If the lights don’t appear, join a free rebooking for another chance

Pick-up and Drop-off from Reykjavik Hotels Simplifies Logistics

The tour starts with a pickup from designated bus stops around Reykjavík, making it easy to join without needing to navigate public transport. The round-trip transfer gets you out of the city’s light pollution, which is crucial for better aurora viewing. The minibus is designed for a small group, ensuring a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere.

Travel times vary depending on weather and cloud cover, as the location changes according to the clouds that evening. This flexibility helps the guides chase clear skies, a common strategy to improve the odds of witnessing the northern lights. The WiFi on board adds a modern touch, allowing travelers to share their experience instantly or plan their evening post-tour.

How the Tour Enhances Aurora Watching with Expert Guidance

The English-speaking guide not only pilots the minibus but also shares detailed insights about the aurora borealis. This added knowledge makes the experience more meaningful, especially when the lights are visible. Guides like Jonas and Nelu are praised for their kindness and dedication to finding the best viewing conditions, often driving quite some distance across Iceland.

While the aurora display can vary dramatically—ranging from faint glows to a spectacular show—the guides do their best to maximize the chances of a sighting. Even if the northern lights are elusive, the guides’ persistence and local knowledge help keep the experience enjoyable.

The Experience of Waiting: Hot Chocolate and Snacks

Waiting in the cold is part of the adventure, but hot drinks and snacks help make it comfortable. Each passenger receives hot chocolate along with a Hraun Icelandic Chocolate bar, which adds a touch of local flavor. These treats, combined with the WiFi on board, help pass the time while waiting for the aurora to appear.

The warm beverages are especially appreciated during Iceland’s chilly nights, turning a potentially long wait into a cozy, social moment. Keep in mind that dressing warmly in layers is advised, as the weather can be quite cold and windy, particularly in open areas.

Digital Photos: Capturing the Aurora Moment

One of the tour’s highlights is the complimentary digital photos taken by the guide. These photos feature both the aurora and your group, so you can relive the experience later. However, some reviews mention disappointment when photos are not received despite being advertised as included.

The guides are generally praised for their efforts to capture good shots, and the photos are provided after the tour. Be sure to check your email or digital devices to access these images, as they are part of the package and add significant value to the overall experience.

Flexibility and Rebooking Policies

If the weather isn’t favorable—such as heavy cloud cover—the tour can be canceled or rescheduled for free. Many reviews mention the prompt and smooth rebooking process when initial sightings are not possible due to weather conditions. This flexibility is important given the unpredictable nature of the northern lights.

Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making this a low-risk option for those concerned about weather or change of plans. The tour’s free cancellation policy enhances its appeal, especially given the variable Icelandic climate.

Guides and Customer Service: Friendly and Knowledgeable

Guide personalities like Julianna, Maggie, and Hawk are frequently praised for their cheerfulness and clear communication. They try to accommodate requests and are committed to making each trip as enjoyable as possible. Several reviews highlight the guides’ patience, enthusiasm, and willingness to take photos for the group.

Some travelers note that the bus may lack comfort compared to larger vehicles, but the small group size compensates by offering a more personalized experience. Guides’ persistent efforts in chasing clear skies and their informative commentary elevate the tour beyond a simple drive.

Practical Tips for the Tour Experience

Dressing warmly is essential, as layers, hats, gloves, and neck warmers are recommended. Additional items like logo hats and gloves are available for purchase on-site but are not included in the base price. Travelers should also prepare for potentially long waits outside in cold, windy weather.

For those interested in photos, bring a smartphone or camera capable of night shots, although the guide’s professional photos often suffice for capturing the moment. The tour’s WiFi also allows sharing the experience immediately.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Others

Compared to larger aurora tours, this small-group minibus experience offers more personalized attention and flexibility. The hot chocolate and free digital photos add value, especially given the high likelihood of a spectacular aurora when conditions are right. The ability to rebook if the lights don’t appear the first night is a reassuring feature.

The tour’s emphasis on local guides and their dedication to finding the best viewing spot enhances the chances of witnessing the aurora, making it a solid choice for travelers eager to see Iceland’s famous lights.

Limitations and Considerations

The primary limitation of this tour is the unpredictable nature of the northern lights; sightings can never be guaranteed. Weather conditions, especially clouds, can prevent the lights from appearing, but the tour’s flexibility and expertise help mitigate this risk.

Some reviews mention disappointment with photos not arriving or about bus comfort, but these are balanced by the guides’ effort and the overall experience. Travelers should be prepared for cold weather and long waits outdoors.

Final Thoughts on the Northern Lights Minibus Tour

This tour offers a reliable and personalized way to chase the aurora borealis from Reykjavík, with small groups, hot chocolate, and free photos making it appealing. The expert guides are dedicated to maximizing your chances of a sighting, and the flexible rebooking policy adds peace of mind.

While no aurora adventure can promise a sighting every time, this tour’s approach, effort, and included amenities make it a strong choice for those wanting a well-rounded northern lights experience. It’s particularly suited for travelers who value small group intimacy and photo keepsakes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The $113.96 fee covers pickup and drop-off from most Reykjavik hotels, hot chocolate, a Hraun Icelandic Chocolate bar, digital photos, WiFi on board, and expert guidance.

Can I join the tour if I’m traveling alone or in a small group?
Yes, the tour has a maximum of 18 people, making it ideal for solo travelers or small groups seeking a more personal experience.

What should I wear for the tour?
Dressing in layers, including a hat, gloves, and warm outerwear, is highly recommended. The tour takes place outdoors in cold, windy conditions, especially while waiting for the lights.

What happens if the northern lights don’t appear?
The tour offers a free rebooking if the aurora is not visible, allowing a second chance to see the lights on a different night.

Are the photos really included?
Yes, digital photos of you and the aurora are part of the package. Despite some reports of delays, guides generally take and send the photos after the tour.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 4 hours, making it a manageable evening activity while maximizing your viewing chances.

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but suitable clothing and comfort in cold weather are important considerations. The tour’s small group and guided nature make it accessible overall.