Photography tour – Northern light Hunting from Akureyri

If you’re dreaming of witnessing the Northern Lights in Iceland, this guided tour from Akureyri offers an excellent chance to catch that elusive, dancing sky. For around $145 per person, you get a roughly 2-3 hour journey in a comfortable minibus, with the chance to escape light pollution outside the city, and, if luck is on your side, see the Aurora Borealis in all its glory.

What we really appreciate about this experience is its focus on small-group intimacy—with just up to 18 travelers, you’re not lost in a crowd. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off makes it super convenient, especially after a late night out. Plus, the knowledgeable driver/guide helps demystify the science behind the lights, adding a layer of educational fun to the adventure.

One thing to keep in mind is that, like all Northern Lights tours, this experience hinges on weather and sky conditions. If the sky remains overcast or the aurora doesn’t appear, you might not see the lights that night. But the tour guarantees a full refund if canceled due to poor weather, which offers peace of mind.

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking an authentic, small-group experience with a knowledgeable guide, and those keen to maximize their chances for a Northern Lights sighting while enjoying the scenic beauty around Akureyri.

Key Points

• Small-group experience: Up to 18 travelers ensures a more personal and relaxed atmosphere.
• Expert guide: Knowledgeable driver/guide enhances the experience with insights about the aurora and local surroundings.
• Flexible booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance adds peace of mind.
• Ideal location: Outside Akureyri, away from city lights, for the best chance of Aurora visibility.
• Weather-dependent: The tour operates in all weather conditions but relies heavily on favorable sky conditions.
• Additional stops: Scenic stops like Eyjafjardarsveit augment the adventure with beautiful views.

Discovering the Northern Lights from Akureyri: What to Expect

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins with a pickup from Hótel Kea in central Akureyri at 9:30 pm, a convenient starting point that’s close to public transportation. Once onboard, your driver/guide will take you outside the city, to a location called Eyjafjardarsveit—a designated spot known for its minimal light pollution and clear views of the night sky.

This part of Iceland is celebrated for its prime viewing conditions, and you’ll spend approximately two hours here. The aim is straightforward: escape the artificial glow, settle in, and wait for the Northern Lights to put on a show. Since the Aurora is a natural phenomenon, sightings aren’t guaranteed, but the tour’s strategic location maximizes your chances.

The scenic drive itself is part of the charm, offering glimpses of Iceland’s rugged beauty—snow-dusted fields, distant mountains, and star-studded skies. The guide’s commentary helps you appreciate the landscape, as well as the science and folklore behind the Aurora Borealis.

What’s Included and What’s Not

You’ll appreciate that the price covers driver/guide services and hotel pickup/drop-off, removing the hassle of figuring out transportation. However, food and drinks aren’t included, so consider grabbing some snacks beforehand unless you plan to buy during the stop.

A notable perk is that the tour operates regardless of weather conditions. If the sky remains cloudy or the lights refuse to appear, you will be offered a free rebooking for another night, which is a generous policy. This flexibility is crucial because Northern Lights visibility is unpredictable.

The Experience: Authentic and Educational

Our review of past travelers highlights the knowledgeable guides who not only help spot the Aurora but also enthrall you with stories and explanations about this natural wonder. One guest remarked, “Great guide, who was knowledgeable about the aurora and fun to chat with.” Their friendly approach makes the experience feel warm and personal, despite the late hour.

The duration of 2-3 hours feels just right—long enough to get a real shot at seeing the lights without dragging on, especially in cold weather. Plus, the small-group format means you don’t feel like just another face in a crowd—more like a mini adventure with new friends, all sharing the hope of an aurora sighting.

The Pros and Cons

Pros
– The small-group size encourages a more intimate experience.
– Expert guides add educational value and enhance the viewing experience.
– Convenient pickup from central Akureyri simplifies logistics.
– Strategic location outside light pollution maximizes viewing opportunities.

Cons
– The weather dependency means no guarantee of seeing the Aurora.
– Limited duration (2-3 hours) might not be enough if the lights are faint or absent.
– No included food or drinks, so you should prepare accordingly.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Considering the price point of $144.60, this tour offers solid value, especially when you factor in the convenience of hotel pickup, and the chance to see the Northern Lights with expert guidance. The reviews consistently praise the guides for their knowledge and friendliness, which can make or break a Northern Lights adventure.

For travelers who appreciate small, personalized tours and want to avoid the hassle of self-driving or uncertain public transportation, this option stands out. The guarantee of a free rebooking if the weather doesn’t cooperate adds a layer of confidence, making it a relatively risk-free choice.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a comfortable, guided outing rather than venturing out on their own in the cold. It’s perfect for those with limited time but eager to maximize their chances of witnessing the Aurora. It’s also great for anyone who prefers a small-group environment, where conversation and learning are part of the fun.

Families with children are welcome, provided they are accompanied by adults, and the guide’s friendly approach makes it accessible for most ages. If you’re a photography enthusiast wanting to capture the Northern Lights, you’ll find the small group and scenic stops ideal for setting up your shots.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, making it easy to join without extra hassle.

What should I wear?
Since the tour operates in all weather conditions, dress warmly—think layers, thermal wear, hats, and gloves—to stay comfortable while waiting outside.

Can I cancel if the weather forecast looks poor?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour also offers a full refund if canceled due to poor weather conditions.

How long does the tour last?
Expect around 2 to 3 hours of activity, with most of the time spent outside Eyjafjardarsveit waiting for the Aurora to appear.

What happens if I don’t see the Northern Lights?
If the sky is cloudy or conditions prevent Aurora viewing, the tour will be canceled or rescheduled, and you’ll receive a full refund or a free rebooking.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, children can join if accompanied by an adult. Just note that the tour is suitable for most travelers, but patience in cold weather is recommended.

Final Thoughts

This Northern Lights hunting tour from Akureyri offers a practical, well-organized way to chase the Aurora in Iceland’s north. The small-group size and knowledgeable guides provide not just a viewing opportunity, but an authentic insight into one of nature’s most mesmerizing phenomena. While the unpredictability of the Aurora means no guarantees, the strategic location and flexible policies make this a worthwhile choice for most travelers eager for that unforgettable night sky display.

If you’re after a comfortable, educational, and scenic experience with a good shot at seeing the lights, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s particularly suited for those who prioritize local expertise and convenience over self-guided adventures, and for anyone who understands that catching the Aurora is often about patience and luck.

Additional Resources

• Similar Experiences in Akureyri
• Other popular tours around Akureyri
• More about Akureyri’s scenic spots and outdoor adventures

Enjoy your hunt for the Northern Lights—fingers crossed you get to see that incredible celestial display!