Blue Lagoon and Northern Lights Tour Including Admission

Experience the Magic of Iceland in One Day: Blue Lagoon and Northern Lights Tour Review

If you’re planning a trip to Reykjavik, a tour combining a soak in the famous Blue Lagoon with a hunt for the elusive Northern Lights sounds like a perfect winter adventure. This particular package, offered by Reykjavik Sightseeing, promises two iconic Icelandic experiences in one day—an indulgent, relaxing soak and an evening quest for nature’s most spectacular light show.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its convenience: you’ll be picked up straight from your hotel or nearby bus stop, and the day is carefully structured to maximize your time. One thing to keep in mind is that the Blue Lagoon admission is a must-book in advance, which speaks to its popularity—and rightly so.

However, some reviews highlight issues like timing and communication glitches, so it’s worth considering that the experience can be a bit inconsistent depending on weather and logistical factors. This tour suits travelers who want a combination of relaxation and adventure—perfect for those eager to tick off two major Icelandic highlights without the hassle of planning separately.

Key Points

• Two iconic experiences bundled into one day, offering great value for the price.
• Blue Lagoon admission is included, but booking early is essential due to high demand.
• Flexible timing for the lagoon, with some reviews mentioning tight schedules.
• Northern Lights safari offers a chance to witness the Aurora Borealis in a prime winter window.
• Hassle-free transportation with hotel pickup, though logistics can sometimes be confusing.
• Authentic experience with knowledgeable guides and thoughtful details like a silica mud mask and in-water drink.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Starting the Day at the Blue Lagoon

Your adventure begins with a scenic coach ride from Reykjavik to the Blue Lagoon, one of Iceland’s most photographed and loved attractions. The journey itself is smooth, often with WiFi onboard—handy for sharing those first photos or catching up on your trip planning. Once you arrive, you’ll spend approximately 4 hours relaxing in the mineral-rich geothermal waters.

The lagoon is surprisingly spacious, with a mix of quieter corners and lively spots like the swim-up bar. According to reviews, the lagoon feels less touristy than expected; even on busy days, it manages to maintain a sense of serenity. The silica mud mask is a particular highlight—reviewers mention how their skin felt rejuvenated afterward. The in-water bar is an added perk, with a selection of drinks, mostly alcohol-free or beer, served from a floating bar.

One detail worth noting is that some travelers recommend bringing snacks or extra gear, as the experience in the lagoon doesn’t include food, and timing can be tight if you want to explore the lagoon fully before heading out. Also, reviews note that the lagoon’s opening hours sometimes close before visitors are ready to leave, so be sure to check the time to avoid rushing.

Transition Time in Reykjavik

After your lagoon visit, there’s a short window for a quick meal or rest in Reykjavik before heading out on the evening northern lights safari. Reviewers advice that having dinner at the lagoon itself can streamline your day, as the transition period can be tight—some mention that you might only have around 1 to 2 hours to change, rest, and get ready.

The Northern Lights Chase

At night, the adventure turns into a search for the Aurora Borealis. The tour departs from Reykjavik around 21:00 to 22:30, depending on the season, and lasts approximately 3 hours. The guides, like Hilda in one review, are well-informed, explaining the best ways to set your camera and what to expect.

Many travelers note that seeing the Northern Lights is highly weather-dependent—cloud cover, rain, or wind can hamper visibility. Some report not getting the perfect display, but most still appreciate the effort and the experience of being out in the cold, gazing at the sky. A photographer guide helps capture the moment, which is a real bonus for those wanting to remember this fleeting spectacle.

A common theme from reviews is that patience pays off: the longer you wait, the better your chances of seeing the lights intensify. Even if the display isn’t spectacular, reviewers mention that the experience itself—being under the starry sky in Iceland—is unforgettable.

What You’ll Love About This Tour

The Convenience and Value

Combining two major Icelandic attractions into one cost-effective package is a major plus. The included admission, drink, and silica mud mask elevate the experience beyond simply visiting a thermal spa, making this a comprehensive souvenir for your trip.

Guides and Knowledge

From detailed explanations about the Aurora to tips for photographing the Northern Lights, guides like Hilda add value with their expertise. Several reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and their friendly attitude, which enhances the overall experience.

Authentic Relaxation

The Blue Lagoon itself is a highlight. Reviewers describe it as “stunning,” with some mentioning they visited right before it closed for renovations, yet still enjoyed the experience immensely. The warm water, combined with the silica mud mask and the possibility of a drink, makes it perfect for unwinding after travel or sightseeing.

The Aurora Experience

Even the attempt to see the Northern Lights is a valuable experience. Many reviews highlight that even if the lights aren’t fully visible or clear, the thrill of being out under Iceland’s open sky in winter, with a good chance of a sighting, makes it worthwhile.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

Timing and Logistics

Some travelers mention that timing is tight, especially if they want to spend longer at the lagoon or explore Reykjavik afterward. The 4-hour window at the lagoon can feel rushed if you want a more leisurely soak, and reviews note that you may need to leave earlier than planned.

Communication and Organization

A handful of reviews point out confusion around pickup times and logistics, with guests reporting delays or unclear instructions. For example, some mention that the transfer was delayed or that communication about bus stops could be improved. This variability can impact your overall experience, especially if you’re on a tight schedule or traveling with children.

Weather Dependency

The Northern Lights are notoriously unpredictable. Several reviews mention that clouds or bad weather prevented sightings, which is part of the gamble with Aurora tours. Some guides offer rebooking options if the lights are not visible, but it’s good to go into this with realistic expectations.

Cost-Effectiveness

While the overall price ($228.87) seems reasonable for two major experiences, some critics feel that the timing and organization issues slightly diminish the value. Still, many consider it a good investment for the convenience and the chance to tick off two bucket-list activities.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This combined tour is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a hassle-free way to experience Iceland’s iconic Blue Lagoon and get a chance at seeing the Northern Lights. If you’re looking for a relaxing yet adventurous day, with guided support, this fits the bill.

It’s also suited for travelers with a limited schedule who prefer everything to be organized for them. However, those seeking more flexibility or planning to spend extended time at each site might prefer to book separate experiences.

If weather is a concern, be prepared with flexible expectations regarding Aurora sightings. And if you’re eager for an in-depth, personalized experience, this might feel somewhat rushed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Blue Lagoon admission included?
Yes, the admission ticket to the Blue Lagoon is included in the tour price. Booking early is recommended due to its popularity.

How long do I get at the Blue Lagoon?
Most guests have around 4 hours to enjoy the lagoon, masks, and bar. Some reviews suggest that timing can be tight, so plan accordingly.

Does the tour include food?
No, food and additional drinks are not included, but you can purchase extra drinks at the lagoon’s bar.

What should I bring?
Bring your own snacks if you want to maximize your time, and consider packing warm clothes for after the lagoon and during the Northern Lights tour.

Are the Northern Lights guaranteed?
No, sightings depend on weather conditions. Guides do their best to find the Aurora, and rebooking options are sometimes offered if the lights are not visible.

What time does the Northern Lights tour start?
From October 15th to March 14th, it departs at 21:00; slightly later in other seasons, with the duration being approximately 3 hours.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup is offered from your Reykjavik hotel or designated bus stops nearby for convenience.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but the tour is best suited for those comfortable with cold weather and late-night outings.

What are the main drawbacks?
Logistical issues, timing constraints, and weather dependency are common concerns. Some reviews mention delays and poor communication, so stay flexible.

In short, this Blue Lagoon and Northern Lights tour offers a well-rounded Icelandic experience, balancing relaxation with adventure. It’s perfect for visitors wanting to combine iconic sights with minimal hassle, but be prepared for variable weather and tight schedules. Whether you see the Aurora or not, the memories of soaking in geothermal waters and the starry Icelandic night will stay with you long after your trip ends.