Reykjavik: Small Group Northern Lights Tour

If you’re eager to witness the majestic Northern Lights in Iceland, the Reykjavik: Small Group Northern Lights Tour offers an accessible and well-organized option. Priced at $111 per person and lasting around 3 hours, this tour provides a comfortable way to chase the Aurora Borealis with a maximum group size of 19 people. The tour departs from the BSI Bus Terminal, and includes essentials like warm blankets and free Wi-Fi on the bus, making the experience both cozy and connected.

While the tour emphasizes the chance to see the lights and benefits from an expert guide choosing the best viewing locations, it’s good to note that sightings depend on weather conditions. If the lights don’t appear on your first night, the tour offers a free re-booking, which adds flexibility for travelers. However, some reviews mention that pick-up arrangements may be inconvenient, and in rare cases, returning to your hotel could involve some walking. This tour suits those looking for a small, guided experience with the opportunity for multiple attempts to see the Aurora.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: At $111 per person for a 3-hour trip, this tour offers a balanced experience for those wanting a focused Northern Lights outing.
• Small Group Setting: With a maximum of 19 people, the tour maintains an intimate atmosphere and allows for personalized attention from the professional local guide.
• Location and Transportation: The tour starts at the BSI Bus Terminal and takes you away from city lights to dark, quiet spots optimal for Aurora viewing.
• Expert Guidance: The guide determines the best locations each night, increasing your chances of seeing the Aurora in its various forms and colors.
• Weather Dependence: Sightings are not guaranteed due to weather, and it’s advised to dress warmly with hats, gloves, and hiking shoes.
• Re-Booking Policy: If the lights don’t appear during your first trip, you can join the tour again free of charge, enhancing your chances to catch the Aurora Borealis.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Pickup and Meeting at the BSI Bus Terminal

The tour begins at the BSI Bus Terminal, with guests advised to arrive 30 minutes prior to departure. This central Reykjavik location makes it easy to access, and the tour staff typically confirms the availability and starting times in advance. The bus is described as comfortable and warm, with blankets provided to keep guests cozy during the outdoor viewing segments.

The return concludes back at the same meeting point, making logistics straightforward. However, some reviews note that pick-up arrangements can be less convenient, especially late at night, with some participants having to walk back to their accommodations if the driver refuses to drop them off directly.

Choosing the Best Locations for Aurora Viewing in Iceland

This tour’s main advantage is that an expert guide actively selects the viewing spots each night based on weather and Aurora forecasts. This dynamic approach helps maximize the chances of seeing the Northern Lights, which can appear in many different forms and colors, mainly light green and pink. The locations are carefully chosen to be away from the city lights, providing the dark skies essential for Aurora visibility.

Travelers can expect to spend significant time outdoors, so warm clothing and hiking shoes are strongly recommended. The dark, quiet environment enhances the viewing experience, allowing guests to truly appreciate the natural phenomenon.

What to Expect During the Aurora Chase

Once at the chosen location, guests have plenty of time to admire the lights and take photos. The guide is available to share basic tips on how to capture the Aurora effectively, which is helpful since the lights can appear in many different colors and shapes. The experience is centered on observing and photographing this natural spectacle, with no food or drinks included.

The lights are caused by particles from the sun interacting with Earth’s upper atmosphere near the Magnetic Pole, making the Aurora a spectacular display of nature’s power. The tour operates during the winter months, from late August to April, which is prime Aurora season in Iceland.

The Role of the Guide and Group Size

The professional local guide plays a crucial role in this tour. They lead the group to the best viewing spots each night and are available to answer questions about the Aurora, Icelandic nature, and photography tips. The small group size of up to 19 people fosters a more personalized experience, allowing guests to ask questions and enjoy the trip without feeling overwhelmed by crowds.

While reviews are generally positive about the guides’ knowledge and friendliness, some mention that the experience can be affected by weather and unpredictable Aurora activity.

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The Practicalities: What to Bring and Weather Considerations

This tour depends heavily on weather conditions, so dressing warmly is essential. Travelers should bring warm clothing, a hat, gloves, and hiking shoes to remain comfortable during outdoor exposure. Since sightings are not guaranteed, flexibility is key—being prepared makes the experience more enjoyable, whether or not the Aurora appears.

The tour includes blankets to help keep guests warm during the outdoor waiting periods, adding to the overall comfort. There are no food or drinks included, so bringing some snacks or hot drinks in thermoses might enhance your experience.

The Cost-Effectiveness and Value Proposition

At $111 per person, the tour offers an affordable way to pursue the Northern Lights with guidance and small group intimacy. The re-booking policy is a valuable feature, giving travelers additional opportunities to see the Aurora without extra cost.

However, some critics note that pick-up logistics may be inconvenient, and the experience relies heavily on weather and Aurora activity, which are outside of the tour’s control. Still, the expert guidance and small group size make this a compelling choice for those seeking an organized, guided pursuit of the Aurora Borealis.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour Most?

This small group experience suits travelers who appreciate personal attention from guides and are comfortable with outdoor winter conditions. It’s ideal for those who want a cost-effective tour that maximizes their chances of witnessing the Aurora, especially if they are flexible with timing and weather-dependent activities.

Since children under 3 years are not recommended, this tour is best suited for older children and adults prepared for cold nights and outdoor viewing. The re-booking option makes it appealing for travelers who want to try multiple nights for Aurora sightings.

Reykjavik: Small Group Northern Lights Tour – Final Thoughts

This tour from ICELANDIA offers a practical and intimate way to experience the Northern Lights. Its small group size, expert guiding, and flexible re-booking policy are significant advantages. The cost is reasonable, considering the inclusion of warm blankets and Wi-Fi, making the outdoor adventure comfortable.

While the dependence on weather and logistical challenges may pose drawbacks, the overall experience remains a highly recommended option for travelers seeking a guided, small group Northern Lights adventure in Iceland. It’s best suited for those who value personalized guidance and are prepared to be flexible with their plans to maximize their chances of witnessing this natural wonder.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes bus ticket, Wi-Fi, a professional local guide, small group size, and blankets for warmth.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts about 3 hours, with start times depending on availability.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is the BSI Bus Terminal in Reykjavik, and guests should arrive 30 minutes before departure.

Is food or drink provided?
No, food and drinks are not included in the tour.

What should I bring?
Warm clothing, a hat, gloves, and hiking shoes are recommended, as the experience is outdoors and weather-dependent.

Can I join the tour again if I don’t see the lights?
Yes, the tour offers a free re-booking if the Aurora is not visible on your initial attempt.

Are children allowed on this tour?
No, children under 3 years are not suitable for this experience.

How does the guide increase my chances of seeing the Aurora?
The guide chooses the best viewing locations each night based on weather and Aurora forecasts, increasing the likelihood of sightings.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Sightings depend on weather, and the tour may be canceled or rescheduled. Guests are advised to check emails and hotel reception for updates.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The data does not specify accessibility, but since it involves outdoor time in cold conditions, it may not be suitable for everyone with mobility restrictions.

This Reykjavik: Small Group Northern Lights Tour combines expert guidance, flexibility, and cozy amenities, making it a solid choice for travelers eager to catch the Aurora Borealis on a controlled, intimate experience.

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