Northern Lights Superjeep Tour from Reykjavik

The Northern Lights Superjeep Tour from Reykjavik offers an exciting way to chase the aurora borealis in Iceland. Priced at $243.30 per person and lasting approximately 4 hours, this tour is designed for those eager to see the northern lights in a comfortable, off-road vehicle. The tour departs from Reykjavik, with hotel pickup and drop-off included, making it a convenient option for visitors. With a rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on 309 reviews, it remains a popular choice, recommended by 92% of participants.

While there’s no guarantee of sighting the lights due to weather conditions, the tour’s approach maximizes your chances by traveling away from city glow with guides who know where to look. The superjeep itself is built with large 40- or 46-inch wheels to navigate challenging terrain, and the tour includes free professional photos capturing your experience. If you don’t see the lights, you have the option to try again on another night at no extra cost, which adds flexibility and peace of mind.

This tour is particularly suitable for travelers who want a personalized, adventurous experience with knowledgeable guides and a high likelihood of sightings. It’s also a good pick for families, as the minimum age is 5 years old. However, it’s worth noting that the tour can be canceled if the weather is unfavorable, and participants should be prepared for Iceland’s cold conditions.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: Costs $243.30 per person for a 4-hour night adventure.
• Departure and Convenience: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off within Reykjavik.
• Vehicle Type: Conducted in a superjeep with large off-road wheels for Iceland’s terrain.
• Sightings Guarantee: If the lights are not seen, there’s a free reattempt on another night.
• Photo Service: Free professional photos taken during the tour.
• Weather Dependency: Tours operate in all weather conditions but are subject to cancellation for safety.

Starting the Night: Pickup and the Journey Outside Reykjavik

The tour begins with pickup at your Reykjavik hotel in the late evening, with arrangements made to collect travelers efficiently. Once aboard the superjeep, the guide leads the group away from city lights and light pollution to locations where the aurora borealis is more visible. The drive itself is part of the adventure, as the rugged terrain demands a vehicle built for challenging Icelandic roads, ensuring a safe and comfortable ride even on rough terrain.

The route and stops depend on current weather forecasts and aurora activity predictions. This flexibility allows guides to seek the best possible locations for a good chance of seeing the lights, which is essential since sightings cannot be guaranteed. The superjeep’s off-road capabilities enable access to more remote areas, often resulting in less crowded viewing spots.

Navigating Iceland’s Terrain with a Superjeep

The superjeep used in this tour is equipped with 40- or 46-inch wheels, enabling it to handle Iceland’s often difficult winter roads. Its design includes fold-down steps for easy access, leather seats, air-conditioning, and Wi-Fi, making the journey more comfortable. The vehicle’s GPS system helps guide the driver to promising spots, while security equipment like first-aid kits and trackwell ensure safety and preparedness.

This off-road capability is a highlight, as it allows guides to venture into locations that larger buses cannot reach. The ability to go into more secluded areas often results in better viewing opportunities and less crowded scenes, which many reviews praise as a major advantage. The small group sizes—up to 99 travelers—mean that the experience remains intimate despite the size of the operation.

The Guide’s Role in Finding the Aurora Borealis

The guides are a core strength of this tour. Known for being friendly, knowledgeable, and persistent, they go out of their way to maximize the chance of experiencing the northern lights. Whether it’s explaining the science behind the phenomenon or patiently waiting for the perfect moment, guides like Kristenn and others are praised repeatedly in reviews.

They also assist with photography, taking dozens of pictures of guests with the aurora in the background. The free photos are a popular perk, allowing travelers to capture memories without extra cost. Guides are attentive to weather changes, often staying longer at locations if conditions improve, which has led to many spectacular sightings even on cloudy nights.

Location Highlights and the Search for the Lights

Stops are chosen based on current weather and aurora forecasts. While the route varies, guides focus on locations offering clear skies and minimal light pollution. Some stops include private spots where fewer vehicles gather, providing a more intimate viewing environment.

Travelers can expect to spend the evening waiting in the cold, so dressing warmly is recommended. The guides often provide hot chocolate, sometimes spiked with vodka, which many reviews mention as a charming and warming treat during the wait. The hot chocolate is described as delicious and a highlight of the evening, especially when paired with the dark Icelandic night.

The Experience of Waiting and Spotting the Aurora

Seeing the northern lights depends heavily on natural factors, but guides’ dedication increases the odds. Many reviews note that guides stay out longer when conditions are promising, often leading to spectacular displays. Some travelers report seeing the lights within 15 minutes of starting, while others remain patient and are rewarded after hours of waiting.

Even when the lights are elusive, the journey itself is appreciated for the adventure and scenic locations. The off-road driving adds a sense of exploration and excitement, making the trip memorable beyond just the aurora sighting.

Rebooking and Cancellation Policies

The tour operates in all weather conditions, but cancellation is possible if conditions are unsafe. If the sky remains cloudy or poor weather prevents sightings, guests can rebook for a different night at no extra cost. Full refunds are available if all scheduled nights are canceled due to weather, providing reassurance for cautious travelers.

Booking is recommended for your first night in Iceland to maximize chances, especially if planning multiple attempts. The tour allows group sizes up to 99, which helps keep the experience lively but not overcrowded. Travelers are advised to call around 5 pm on the day of the tour to confirm if it’s operating, as weather can change quickly.

Customer Feedback: The Strengths and Weaknesses

Reviews consistently praise knowledgeable guides who are dedicated to finding the lights, as well as the hot chocolate and photo services. Many highlight the adventurous off-road experience and stunning photographic opportunities as key benefits.

Some critical feedback mentions long waits in uncomfortable vehicles, especially in extremely cold conditions, and communication issues during pickup. One review pointed out the back seat configuration and lack of an outside door, which could make entry and exit less convenient, particularly in cold weather. The majority find this tour well worth the price, especially for the chance to see the aurora borealis in Iceland.

Final Thoughts on the Northern Lights Superjeep Tour

The Northern Lights Superjeep Tour from Reykjavik stands out for its off-road accessibility, professional guides, and free photos. It offers a 4-hour adventure that maximizes your chances of witnessing the aurora through dynamic routing and persistent guiding. The $243.30 price reflects the premium experience with hotel pickup, comfortable vehicle, and flexible rebooking options.

This tour is especially suited to adventurous travelers who don’t mind the cold and are eager for a personalized, scenic, and exciting night out. While unpredictable weather can be a challenge, the dedication of guides and the quality of the vehicle make it a rewarding way to experience Iceland’s northern lights.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Northern Lights Superjeep Tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours from start to finish.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off within Reykjavik are included, providing added convenience.

What if I don’t see the northern lights?
If the lights are not visible, you can try again on another night at no extra cost. Full refunds are available if all scheduled nights are canceled due to weather.

What is the vehicle like?
The tour uses a superjeep with large off-road wheels (40- or 46-inch), equipped with leather seats, Wi-Fi, and security features.

Can children participate?
Yes, the minimum age is 5 years old, making it suitable for families with young children.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly and appropriately for Iceland’s cold night temperatures. The tour often provides hot chocolate to help you stay warm.

Is the tour available in all weather conditions?
Yes, but bad weather may lead to cancellation. The operator reserves the right to cancel based on safety and visibility conditions.

How many people are in each group?
Group sizes can go up to 99 travelers, but the experience tends to be more personal in smaller groups.

What makes this tour different from other northern lights trips?
The off-road superjeep allows access to remote locations with less light pollution, and guides actively search for the best viewing spots.

How do I confirm if the tour is running on the day?
Call the tour operator around 5 pm on the day of the tour at +354 569 8000 for the latest update.

What’s the best time to book the tour?
It’s recommended to book at least 41 days in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak viewing season from fall to spring.