Akureyri: Hunt for the Northern Lights Photography Tour

Introduction

If you’re dreaming of seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland, this Akureyri Northern Lights Photography Tour promises a night filled with starry skies, awe-inspiring natural beauty, and expert guidance. While the elusive aurora is never guaranteed—since it depends on weather and solar activity—the experience of venturing out of the city’s light pollution to chase this natural wonder can still be unforgettable.

What we particularly like about this tour is its focus on learning to spot the Northern Lights and the opportunity to photograph this natural phenomenon. The tour also boasts some impressive scenery around Lake Mývatn, an area renowned for its stark, rugged beauty.

However, it’s worth noting that, like many aurora tours, this experience heavily relies on clear skies and solar activity. If cloud cover is thick, you might end up with a cloudy, starless night, which can be disappointing. Still, for those with a sense of adventure and patience, this tour is well-suited to travelers eager to learn more about the night sky and enjoy Iceland’s nocturnal landscape.

Key Points

• Great for photography enthusiasts looking to capture the Northern Lights in a scenic setting.
• Guided by knowledgeable local guides who provide helpful tips on spotting and photographing the aurora.
• Dependent on weather and sky conditions, so flexibility and patience are important.
• Includes hotel pickup, making logistics easier for travelers staying in Akureyri.
• Ideal for those interested in stargazing and discovering constellations in a dark, pollution-free sky.
• A good value at $132, considering the guided experience and personalized tips.

What This Tour Offers

This 2.5-hour Northern Lights hunt is all about escaping light pollution and heading into the dark, open areas around Akureyri for the best chance to see the aurora borealis. The tour departs at 9:30 pm from KEA Hotel Hafnarstræti 87-89, with the option of hotel pickup, making it convenient especially if you’re based in Akureyri. The guides will choose the most promising direction based on current forecasts, aiming for clear skies and maximum visibility.

The journey out of the city takes you to spots where light pollution is minimal, often near Lake Mývatn, known for its stunning views and clear night skies. The guides are equipped with local knowledge and will share tips on how to identify the Northern Lights, which can often start faintly before blooming into a vibrant display.

A highlight for many participants is the opportunity to do some star gazing, with the chance to spot constellations and perhaps even see the Milky Way if conditions are perfect. The guides are attentive in helping with camera settings, so those eager to capture the moment aren’t left to figure it all out alone.

The Experience of the Night

While the tour’s core aim is to find the Northern Lights, the journey itself is part of the charm. You’ll be traveling in a small group in a comfortable van, with the guide driving through some of Iceland’s most scenic areas. As described by a reviewer, Jong, the guide, was praised for his driving skills and his explanations about the lights, making the night both educational and relaxing.

Some guests, like EVA, noted that weather plays a crucial role. Unfortunately, cloud cover can obscure the aurora, and in her case, “we didn’t get to see any Northern Lights due to the weather conditions,” but she appreciated the guide’s friendly effort to chase clear skies. It’s a reminder that patience and luck are part of the experience.

On a more positive note, Sandra shared that her guide Jong went above and beyond, actively searching for clear skies and helping guests with their cameras. This personalized attention can make the difference between a good night and a spectacular one.

The Scenic Backdrop: Lake Mývatn and Beyond

Even if the Northern Lights don’t make an appearance, the scenery around Lake Mývatn offers a visual treat. The area’s rugged terrain, volcanic formations, and expansive dark skies provide a perfect canvas for star gazing. The beauty of this tour is that it combines the thrill of aurora hunting with the chance to enjoy Iceland’s remarkable night landscape.

This setting also enhances your chance of seeing the Milky Way if the night is clear, which can be a bonus for amateur astronomers and photographers alike.

Practical Details and Value

Costing $132 per person, this tour offers reasonable value for a guided experience that includes transportation and expert insights. The small group size, combined with an experienced guide like Jong, ensures personalized attention, especially for photography tips and aurora spotting.

The tour’s duration of 2.5 hours is enough to venture into promising areas without feeling rushed. Plus, the flexible cancellation policy—full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance—adds peace of mind. It’s important to note that the tour is weather-dependent; the operator will confirm the night’s operation around 6 PM, so travelers should stay flexible and check for updates.

The packing list is straightforward: warm clothing, hat, gloves, sturdy shoes, and a camera are essential. Iceland’s winter nights are cold and potentially windy, so dressing in layers is advised.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Northern Lights tour is ideal for travelers who:

• Are eager to learn about the aurora and improve their chances of seeing it with expert guidance.
• Want a scenic night-time experience with opportunities for stargazing and photography.
• Are flexible and prepared for the possibility of no sighting if weather conditions aren’t favorable.
• Prefer a guided experience with hotel pickup for convenience.
• Are okay with a 2.5-hour commitment in the evening, fitting easily into a relaxed Iceland itinerary.

It’s less suited for travelers who need guaranteed sightings or those with very tight schedules, as the success of spotting the Northern Lights depends heavily on natural factors.

Final Thoughts

For those visiting Akureyri and chasing the Northern Lights, this tour offers a balanced mix of expert guidance, scenic beauty, and the thrill of the hunt. While the aurora can’t be guaranteed, the experience of venturing out under Iceland’s vast, star-filled sky is personally rewarding, especially when guides like Jong actively seek the best viewing conditions and help with photography.

The focus on education, scenic setting, and flexibility makes this a solid choice for travelers who value authenticity and a genuine connection with Iceland’s night sky. Even if you don’t see the lights, you’ll have enjoyed a peaceful, awe-inspiring night surrounded by Iceland’s raw natural beauty.

In summary, this tour provides good value for the price and a chance to experience Iceland’s nocturnal landscape in a relaxed, guided setting. It’s suited for those with a sense of adventure, patience, and an appreciation for the natural world.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for photography?
Yes, guides provide tips for spotting and photographing the Northern Lights, making it a good experience for those wanting to capture the moment.

What should I bring?
Warm clothing, hat, gloves, comfortable shoes, water, and your camera are highly recommended to stay comfortable and prepared.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour operator also decides if the tour will run around 6 PM each day, based on weather conditions.

What time does the tour start?
The tour departs at 9:30 pm from KEA Hotel Hafnarstræti. Arriving 10 minutes early is advised.

Will I see the Northern Lights every time?
No, sightings depend on weather and solar activity. If conditions aren’t right, the tour might be canceled or you may not see the lights.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup is available and encouraged for convenience, but you can also meet the guide directly at the meeting point.

This Aurora hunt near Akureyri offers a genuine chance to experience Iceland’s extraordinary sky, with the guidance and scenic backdrop to make it special—perfect for those eager to combine adventure with learning in one of the world’s best locations for Northern Lights viewing.