Reykjavik: Northern Lights Tour with Private Photographer

Seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland is often considered a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but making sure you actually catch this natural phenomenon can be tricky. This particular tour, offered by Ultimate Iceland / Aurora Experts, promises a 93% sighting rate, backed by expert guidance and some thoughtful touches like warm jumpsuits and unlimited professional photos. It’s a compact, well-organized experience designed for those who want comfort, authenticity, and a good shot at witnessing the aurora borealis in all its glory.

What really caught our eye is the promise of a small group setting—max 18 passengers—which means you’re less likely to be lost in a crowd and more likely to get personalized attention. Plus, with a professional photographer guide and unlimited photos, this tour aims to combine the magic of seeing the lights with the joy of leaving with stunning images. However, the price point—around $221 per person—may make some travelers pause, especially considering the unpredictable nature of the Northern Lights. Still, for those who prioritize comfort and photo quality, it might well be worth it.

This tour is best suited for travelers who value quality over quantity, want a cozy, intimate experience, and are willing to pay a premium for comfort, expert guidance, and guaranteed photo memories. If you’re an adventurous soul with a camera or even just a desire to see the lights with minimal hassle, this could be a great pick. But if budget is your main concern or if you’re okay with larger groups and more basic setups, there are other options to explore.

Key Points

• High sighting rate of 93%, thanks to expert weather and aurora forecasting.
• Small group size ensures a more personal and less crowded experience.
• Comfort is prioritized with warm jumpsuits and outdoor chairs, making the chilly Arctic weather more bearable.
• Unlimited professional photos mean you’ll leave with a collection of high-quality images—excellent value.
• Traditional Icelandic snacks and drinks create a cozy, authentic atmosphere.
• Flexible re-runs in case the lights are elusive, with a two-year window for a free repeat.

Why This Tour Stands Out

The key feature here is the expert guidance of a top Northern Lights photographer. We loved the way guide Heimir used advanced weather and aurora forecasts, satellite imagery, and keen intuition to maximize your chances of seeing the lights. The promise of unlimited photos is a major bonus—especially because many travelers feel disappointed after a tour that offers only a handful of snapshots. Here, you can borrow tripods for free, get assistance with camera settings, and leave with plenty of stunning images to relive the experience.

The tour’s small group size (max 18 people) is another big plus, creating an intimate atmosphere that feels less like a tourist herd and more like a shared adventure. Several reviews mention how this small group approach avoids the crowded, hectic feeling of larger tours, allowing for a more relaxed and focused experience.

The inclusion of warm jumpsuits and outdoor chairs is a practical touch that adds comfort and allows you to truly enjoy the spectacle without battling the cold. Think of it like having a cozy outdoor lounge, with plenty of space to sit back and watch the sky flicker with green and purple hues.

The Itinerary and Experience

Most Northern Lights tours in Iceland start with a pickup from your Reykjavik accommodation, usually from hotels, guesthouses, or cruise ship terminals. The pick-up timing is flexible, but you’ll receive an email confirmation on the day to confirm whether the tour will proceed, based on weather conditions. This is a common practice, as the Northern Lights are notoriously unpredictable and weather-dependent.

Once on board, the journey takes you away from city lights—crucial for optimal viewing. The guide and photographer Heimir will steer the group to the best spots, using a combination of forecasts and satellite data to increase your chances of seeing the aurora. You’ll be provided with warm jumpsuits and outdoor chairs, perfect for those long waits in the cold night.

The stops are typically in areas with minimal light pollution, ensuring the best possible sky visibility. While the actual locations may vary based on weather and aurora activity, the goal is always to find a clear, dark spot with an unobstructed view of the northern horizon.

A significant part of the experience is the professional photography. Heimir offers unlimited shots, helping you with camera settings and even loaning tripods if needed. Many travelers report that this aspect is a game-changer—no more blurry or poorly lit photos, just beautiful, high-quality shots of the lights dancing overhead.

During the wait, you can indulge in traditional Icelandic snacks like dried fish, cinnamon rolls, pastries, and chocolates, accompanied by hot cocoa, tea, and sometimes premium vodka and Snaps. These little comforts create a welcoming, warm atmosphere in the freezing outdoors, making the experience more than just a sky-watching session.

If the weather turns against you or if the lights are elusive, the tour offers unlimited re-runs—you can come back again within two years, free of charge. This flexibility is a big plus and reflects the company’s confidence in their forecasts and experience.

The Price and Its Value

At $221 per person, this tour is positioned at the higher end of the Iceland Northern Lights excursions. When considering value, think about what’s included: professional guidance, unlimited photos, warm jumpsuits, outdoor chairs, snacks, drinks, and free camera equipment. For many, these features elevate the experience from a simple sky-gazing outing to a memorable, comfortable adventure with keepsake photos.

The personalized attention and the guarantee of professional photos mean that even if the lights are shy, you’ll still walk away with stunning images—something most cheaper tours don’t offer. If capturing high-quality photos is important to you, this could justify the expense.

However, it’s worth noting that the cost does not include the possibility of unpredictable weather—which could mean a canceled tour if conditions are poor. The company’s transparent communication process—receiving an email on the evening of the tour—helps set expectations.

The Experience from Reviews

From the eight reviews, several themes emerge. The stunning views of the Northern Lights are the main highlight, with many visitors describing the spectacle as “mesmerizing” and “breathtaking.” One reviewer praised the guide, Heimir, for his “knowledge and patience,” which enhanced the overall experience. Others appreciated the small group size, noting it created a more intimate and comfortable environment.

Some reviews mentioned that the comfort amenities—warm jumpsuits and outdoor chairs—made a noticeable difference, especially since waiting outdoors in cold weather can be tough. The unlimited professional photos also receive consistent praise, with many guests saying they left with “beautiful images they’ll cherish forever.”

A few reviewers pointed out that the tour is weather dependent, and if the skies are overcast or the aurora doesn’t appear, the tour might be canceled at the last minute. The company’s policy of offering free re-runs within two years was appreciated, providing reassurance that a missed chance isn’t the end of the world.

Practical Tips for a Great Experience

• Dress warmly: layers, hats, gloves, and waterproof hiking shoes are essential.
• Be patient: sometimes the lights take time to appear, so bring a hot drink and be ready to wait.
• Arrive prepared for photography: if you have your own camera, ask for help with settings; the tour provides tripods.
• Keep your phone charged: you might want to take spontaneous shots or share moments.
• Check weather forecasts and stay flexible with your plans.
• Be ready for last-minute cancellations—but remember, re-runs are available.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

This experience is ideal for photo enthusiasts who want high-quality pictures of the Northern Lights without the hassle. The small group size and personalized guidance appeal to travelers who prefer a more intimate, relaxed atmosphere. It’s also a good choice if you prioritize comfort and convenience—warm jumpsuits, outdoor chairs, and snacks mean you’re well taken care of outdoors.

If you’re someone who’s willing to invest in a memorable, well-organized night out and understands the unpredictability of the lights, this tour offers a compelling package. It’s less suited for travelers on a tight budget or those who prefer larger, more economical tours—these often offer fewer amenities and less attention to individual photography.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For those who want to maximize their chances of seeing the Northern Lights in comfort, with professional-grade photos as keepsakes, this tour ticks many boxes. The focus on small groups, expert guidance, and comfort amenities makes it stand out from more generic options. The ability to revisit the experience through free re-runs adds peace of mind.

If your priority is a comfortable, intimate, and photography-focused Northern Lights adventure, this tour delivers. Be prepared for the variability of nature and the possibility of last-minute cancellations—patience and flexibility are your best friends here. Overall, it’s a well-rounded, thoughtfully designed experience that offers good value for those seeking quality and authenticity in their Icelandic adventure.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a professional photographer guide, unlimited photos from the tour, warm winter jumpsuits, outdoor chairs, traditional Icelandic snacks, hot cocoa, premium vodka, tripods, and assistance with camera settings. WiFi is also available on board.

How long does the tour last?
The experience typically runs for around 5 hours, with starting times varying based on availability. You’ll receive an email confirmation on the day to confirm your exact schedule.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included from various hotels, guesthouses, and cruise ship terminals in Reykjavik. Some locations within the city center may be off-limits due to regulations.

Can I cancel the tour if the weather is bad?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The company also offers free re-runs within two years if the lights aren’t visible during your scheduled tour.

What should I bring?
Dress warmly with layers, hats, gloves, and hiking shoes. Bring a charged phone or camera, and be prepared for cold outdoor conditions.

What if I don’t see the Aurora?
If clouds or weather prevent viewing, the company offers unlimited re-runs, so you can try again within two years at no extra cost.

Is this experience suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 5 years old, likely due to the cold outdoor environment and late hours.

How reliable are the sightings?
With a 93% sighting rate, the chances are very good, especially given the expert forecasts and small group setup. Still, nature remains unpredictable, so some patience is key.

In the end, this tour offers a blend of expert guidance, comfort, and authentic Icelandic atmosphere that can turn a potentially chilly, uncertain night into a standout memory. It’s a strong choice for avid photographers, comfort-seekers, and anyone eager to see the Northern Lights with less hassle and more style.