From Reykjavik: Blue Lagoon and Northern Lights Tour

Travelers planning a winter trip to Iceland often find themselves captivated by two major natural wonders: the Blue Lagoon and the Northern Lights. This combined tour offers a well-rounded experience, blending relaxation and awe-inspiring sights in one day. Whether you’re seeking a soothing soak in warm, mineral-rich waters or hoping to catch the elusive, colorful dance of the Aurora Borealis, this tour aims to tick both boxes.

What we really appreciate about this experience is the seamless combination of two iconic Icelandic activities, giving you a taste of both the country’s soothing geothermal culture and its spectacular night sky. The Blue Lagoon portion is praised for its luxurious facilities and silica mud masks, offering a genuine spa-like feel. Meanwhile, the Northern Lights hunt is designed to maximize your chances of seeing the Aurora, with guides studying weather conditions and Aurora forecasts.

One potential consideration is the tour’s weather dependency—cloud cover, storms, or heavy snow can impact sightings of the Northern Lights. Also, since the tour doesn’t include hotel transfers, you’ll need to be at the designated meeting point on time, which is straightforward but worth noting if your accommodation is outside Reykjavik’s busy center. This tour suits those who love a mix of relaxation, adventure, and the chance to see some of Iceland’s most famous natural phenomena, all in one well-organized day.

Key Points

• Balanced Experience: Combines a relaxing geothermal soak with an evening Aurora hunt.
• All-Inclusive: Includes Blue Lagoon entrance, silica mud mask, towel, and a drink.
• Weather-Sensitive: Aurora sightings depend on weather and aurora activity forecasts.
• Comfortable Transport: Modern coach with free Wi-Fi makes the day travel smooth.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable local guides enhance the Northern Lights experience.
• Extra Flexibility: Free rebooking if Northern Lights aren’t visible on your first try.

Analyzing the Experience: What You Can Expect

This tour is designed for travelers who want a full day of iconic Icelandic highlights without hassle. Starting around 1:00 PM, the journey kicks off at the BSI Bus Terminal in Reykjavik with a comfortable transfer to the Blue Lagoon. Here, you’re not just passing by; you get a Comfort Package that includes entrance, silica mud masks, a towel, and a drink—adding genuine value to your visit. The Blue Lagoon’s facilities are modern, and the silica mask is renowned for leaving your skin feeling remarkably soft and firm. Reviewers have mentioned how smooth and timely the transfer was, with one noting their experience was “fantastic.”

The Blue Lagoon is a unique environment, with lava fields and mossy surroundings that make for stunning photos. Many visitors appreciate the opportunity to relax in geothermal waters, which are especially soothing after travel or exploring outside. The lagoon’s silica mud is a highlight, with reviews praising how it enhances skin quality—one reviewer even called it “fantastic,” noting the smoothness they achieved.

At around 4:15 PM, you’re transferred back to Reykjavik by a coach equipped with free Wi-Fi, giving you some downtime before the night adventure begins. The return journey is smooth, with most travelers feeling comfortably transported, noting the pleasant ride back.

Once in Reykjavik, you’ll have a few hours to unwind, grab dinner, and prepare for the night. This free evening is perfect for trying local Icelandic dishes or simply relaxing at your hotel before heading out for the Aurora hunt.

The Northern Lights tour departs around 9:00 PM from the BSI Bus Terminal (or a designated hotel pick-up, if you opt for that service), led by professional English-speaking guides like Micha and Emma, who reviewers found to be enthusiastic and knowledgeable. The guides don’t just hunt for lights—they also help with camera setup, so you have a better shot at capturing the Aurora if it appears.

The tour varies nightly depending on weather, but guides will choose locations with the best conditions. If the skies are clear, you might witness the Aurora dancing overhead for hours, as some reviews mention sightings lasting around two hours. If clouds obscure the sky, you can rejoin the tour for free on a future night, which many travelers appreciate.

By midnight, you’ll be back in Reykjavik, with many guests feeling satisfied with their chance to witness one of nature’s most spectacular displays. Even if the Aurora doesn’t appear, reviewers note the guides’ professionalism and the effort to find the best viewing spots.

In-Depth Breakdown: Why This Tour Works

Blue Lagoon: A Spa Amongst Lava Fields

The Blue Lagoon is Iceland’s most photographed attraction and is famous for its milky blue waters contrasting sharply with volcanic surroundings. The Comfort Package, included in this tour, offers a relaxing experience—silica mud masks, which many reviewers swear by for skin improvement, are a highlight. The lagoon’s facilities are modern, with a spacious layout that allows for both socializing or solitary relaxation.

The silica mud masks are a definite perk, with guests noting how soft and firm their skin felt afterward. The lagoon also has a bar and café, but since food and drinks aren’t included in the tour, you might want to grab a snack before or after your soak. The lagoon’s temperature hovers around 37–39°C (98–102°F), providing a soothing contrast to the cold Icelandic air outside.

The Transfer & Timing

The transfer service is praised for its punctuality and comfort. The coach with Wi-Fi makes the journey between Reykjavik and the Blue Lagoon quick and pleasant. You’ll get around two hours to enjoy the lagoon, which is enough for a relaxing soak, some photos, and a silica mud mask experience. Some reviewers mention how the timing was perfect, with smooth transfers and no long waits.

Evening Aurora Hunt: A Nighttime Adventure

After returning to Reykjavik, you’ll have a few hours to eat and prepare. The Northern Lights tour kicks off after sunset, usually around 9:00 PM. The guides, like Micha and Emma, are praised for their enthusiasm, professionalism, and camera assistance. They know the best spots each night, depending on weather and Aurora forecasts, which is crucial because sightings are not guaranteed.

Weather conditions can vary, and heavy clouds or snow can obscure the lights. One reviewer described being snowed in the bus shelter for hours, but appreciated that the guide kept everyone informed and safe. The Aurora is a natural phenomenon, and many guests find that patience and flexibility are essential.

Authenticity and Authentic Experiences

The reviews highlight the guides’ knowledge and enthusiasm, which can make or break your Aurora experience. Micha, for instance, was described as “enthusiastic, humorous, and a great guide,” who went out of her way to help guests set up their cameras. This personal touch greatly enhances the experience, especially for those eager to capture the lights on their cameras.

Value for Money

At $261 per person, the tour offers a lot for the price: Blue Lagoon’s silica mud masks, the comfort transfer, a professional guide, and the chance to see the Northern Lights. While the Aurora sighting depends on weather, the option to rejoin the tour free of charge is a thoughtful feature that adds value and peace of mind.

Practical Tips for Booking and Enjoying

• Dress warmly: The tour involves time outdoors at night; layers, hats, gloves, and thermal wear are essential.
• Bring a camera: The guides are helpful with camera setups, but a tripod and patience will improve your Aurora photos.
• Timing is key: Check the weather and Aurora forecasts before the tour, but remember, nature can be unpredictable.
• Be punctual: The meeting points are straightforward, but arriving 15 minutes early ensures you won’t miss your transfer.
• Stay flexible: If you don’t see the Aurora on your first night, you can join again for free, which many travelers appreciate.

Final Thoughts

This From Reykjavik: Blue Lagoon and Northern Lights Tour offers a balanced day of relaxation and adventure, perfect for travelers who want to maximize their winter trip with Iceland’s two most iconic attractions. The inclusion of the Blue Lagoon’s silica mud masks and comfortable transportation makes it feel like a well-rounded, hassle-free experience.

It’s best suited for those who enjoy well-organized tours with expert guides and are comfortable with some weather dependency. The tour’s value is boosted by the chance to see the Aurora, the quality of the facilities, and the friendly guide service.

Whether you’re seeking a soothing spa day or hoping to witness the Aurora’s magic, this tour condenses Iceland’s best into one memorable day—an excellent way to make your trip unforgettable.

FAQ

Is hotel pick-up included?
No, the tour starts at the BSI Bus Terminal in Reykjavik. You should be ready 15 minutes prior to departure.

What is included in the Blue Lagoon experience?
You get a Comfort Package, which includes entrance, a silica mud mask, a towel, and a drink of your choice.

Can I see the Northern Lights on this tour?
Sightings depend on weather and Aurora activity. Guides choose the best locations based on conditions, but sightings are not guaranteed.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly with layers, including thermal clothing, hats, gloves, and sturdy shoes suitable for cold weather.

How long is the Blue Lagoon visit?
You have approximately two hours to enjoy the lagoon, which is enough for a relaxing soak and some photos.

What if I don’t see the Aurora?
You are welcome to join the Northern Lights tour again at no extra cost, increasing your chances of a sighting.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 2 and above can participate, but babies under 2 are not allowed at the Blue Lagoon.

Are food and drinks included?
No, meals are not included. You are encouraged to eat before or after the tour or bring snacks for the bus ride.

This tour offers a thoughtfully curated blend of Icelandic wellness and wilderness, perfect for travelers looking to experience the country’s natural beauty in a single day.