Reykjavik Northern Lights Tour Experience: When, Where & How to Go

January 1, 2026

Seeing the Northern Lights is a dream for many travelers, and a Reykjavik Northern Lights tour is one of the best ways to experience this natural phenomenon. Iceland’s capital city offers the perfect base for aurora hunting, combining modern comforts with quick access to dark skies and untouched nature. From expert-led excursions to breathtaking landscapes, Reykjavik makes Northern Lights chasing both exciting and accessible.

In this detailed guide, you’ll discover everything you need to know about booking a Reykjavik Northern Lights tour, the best time to go, what to expect, and tips to maximize your chances of witnessing the glowing aurora borealis.

What Are the Northern Lights?

The Northern Lights, also known as the aurora borealis, are colorful waves of light that dance across the night sky. They are caused by charged particles from the sun colliding with Earth’s magnetic field and atmosphere. These collisions release energy in the form of light, creating shades of green, pink, purple, and sometimes red.

Iceland lies directly under the auroral oval, a region where auroras are most active. This makes the country, and especially Reykjavik, one of the top destinations in the world for Northern Lights viewing.

Why Choose a Reykjavik Northern Lights Tour?

While it is possible to hunt the Northern Lights on your own, joining a Reykjavik Northern Lights tour offers many advantages.

Expert Knowledge

Local guides understand weather patterns, cloud coverage, and solar activity. They know exactly where to go for the best viewing conditions on any given night.

Convenience

Tours usually include hotel pickup and drop-off, saving you the hassle of driving icy roads late at night.

Higher Success Rate

Professional tours monitor aurora forecasts in real time and adjust routes accordingly, greatly increasing your chances of seeing the lights.

Photography Assistance

Many tours help guests capture stunning aurora photos, offering camera settings tips or even professional photography services.

Best Time to Take a Reykjavik Northern Lights Tour

Timing is crucial when planning your Northern Lights experience.

Northern Lights Season in Reykjavik

The best time for a Reykjavik Northern Lights tour is from September to April, when nights are long and dark.

September & October: Mild weather, fewer crowds, and early auroras
November to February: Peak season with the darkest skies
March & April: Increasing daylight but still excellent aurora activity

Best Time of Night

Most tours depart between 8:00 PM and 10:00 PM, depending on conditions. Aurora activity can happen anytime during the night, so patience is key.

Types of Reykjavik Northern Lights Tours

There are several types of tours available, catering to different preferences and budgets.

Bus Northern Lights Tours

Bus tours are the most popular and affordable option. Large or medium-sized buses transport guests from Reykjavik to darker countryside areas.

Best for: Budget travelers and first-time visitors

Small Group Northern Lights Tours

These tours use minibuses and limit group size, offering a more personal experience and better photo opportunities.

Best for: Couples, photographers, and small groups

Private Northern Lights Tours

Private tours are fully customizable and offer exclusive attention from the guide.

Best for: Families, honeymooners, and luxury travelers

Boat Northern Lights Tours

Departing from Reykjavik’s Old Harbor, boat tours take you out to sea where light pollution is minimal.

Best for: Travelers looking for a unique and scenic experience

What to Expect on a Reykjavik Northern Lights Tour

Knowing what to expect can help you enjoy your tour to the fullest.

Pickup and Departure

Most tours offer pickup from central Reykjavik hotels or nearby meeting points. After a brief introduction, the guide explains the night’s forecast.

The Hunt Begins

Tours travel outside the city, often heading toward national parks, lava fields, or coastal areas with clear skies.

Waiting and Watching

Auroras are unpredictable. Sometimes they appear instantly, while other nights require waiting. Guides often provide hot chocolate, blankets, or stories about Icelandic folklore.

Return to Reykjavik

Tours typically last 3 to 5 hours, returning late at night or early morning.

Best Places Near Reykjavik to See the Northern Lights

Reykjavik tours explore many stunning locations, depending on weather conditions.

Thingvellir National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site with wide-open skies and minimal light pollution.

Reykjanes Peninsula

Known for volcanic landscapes, geothermal areas, and dramatic coastlines.

Hvalfjörður Fjord

A scenic fjord surrounded by mountains, offering excellent aurora reflections.

Mosfellsdalur Valley

Close to Reykjavik but far enough to escape city lights.

How to Dress for a Reykjavik Northern Lights Tour

Staying warm is essential for a comfortable experience.

Essential Clothing

Thermal base layers
Insulated winter jacket
Waterproof pants
Wool socks
Insulated boots
Gloves, scarf, and hat

Pro Tip

Dress as if temperatures are colder than expected. Standing still while waiting for the aurora can make it feel much colder.

Tips to Increase Your Chances of Seeing the Northern Lights

Although no tour can guarantee a sighting, these tips can improve your odds.

Check the Aurora Forecast

High solar activity increases the chances of visible auroras.

Stay Flexible

Book your Northern Lights tour early in your trip, allowing rescheduling if conditions are poor.

Avoid Full Moon Nights

Bright moonlight can reduce visibility, though strong auroras can still shine through.

Be Patient

Auroras can appear suddenly and fade just as quickly. Stay alert and trust your guide.

Northern Lights Photography Tips

Capturing the Northern Lights can be challenging but rewarding.

Camera Settings

Use a tripod
Set ISO between 800–3200
Aperture: f/2.8 or lower
Exposure: 5–20 seconds

Smartphone Photography

Some modern smartphones can capture auroras using night mode, but results vary.

Guided Photography Tours

Many Reykjavik Northern Lights tours offer professional photography assistance or include photos as part of the package.

Reykjavik Northern Lights Tour Cost

Prices vary depending on tour type and inclusions.

Bus tours: €50–€80
Small group tours: €90–€150
Private tours: €300+
Boat tours: €90–€120

Many companies offer free retries if the lights are not seen, adding great value.

Is a Reykjavik Northern Lights Tour Worth It?

Absolutely. A Reykjavik Northern Lights tour combines expertise, convenience, and adventure, giving you the best possible chance to witness one of nature’s most magical displays. Whether you’re visiting Iceland for a short stay or a longer winter vacation, this experience often becomes the highlight of the trip.

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Final Thoughts on Reykjavik Northern Lights Tours

A Reykjavik Northern Lights tour is more than just sightseeing—it’s an unforgettable journey into Iceland’s winter magic. From expert guides and breathtaking landscapes to the awe-inspiring dance of the aurora borealis, this experience captures the essence of Icelandic adventure.

If you’re planning a winter trip to Iceland, make sure a Reykjavik Northern Lights tour is at the top of your itinerary. With the right timing, preparation, and a bit of luck, you’ll witness a sky filled with shimmering colors that you’ll remember for a lifetime.