Imagine Peace Tower Tour on Viðey island | John Lennon tribute

Travelers to Reykjavik often look for experiences that combine beauty, meaning, and a touch of the extraordinary. The Imagine Peace Tower Tour offers just that—an evening journey by boat to a tranquil island where art meets activism in the form of Yoko Ono’s luminous tribute to John Lennon. This tour not only showcases the stunning lights of the Peace Tower illuminating the night sky but also weaves in the stories behind this powerful monument, creating a memorable experience that resonates well beyond the initial sight.

One of our favorite aspects? The combination of a scenic boat ride with cultural significance—it’s an immersive way to connect with the message of peace while enjoying some of Iceland’s crisp, fresh air. But, be prepared for potentially cold temperatures and unsteady walking conditions, especially in the dark. This tour suits those who appreciate meaningful art, serene environments, and a chance to see the Northern Lights in a quiet setting far from city lights.

Key Points:

• Authentic experience combining art, nature, and history on Viðey Island
• Small group tours ensure intimacy and personalized insights
• Knowledgeable guides enhance understanding of the Peace Tower and its symbolism
• Evening cruise offers a peaceful, reflective atmosphere
• Northern Lights chance adds an extra magical element
• Weather preparedness is essential due to Iceland’s unpredictable climate

An overview of the experience

This two-hour tour combines a boat cruise from Reykjavik’s Old Harbour with an evening walk to a significant cultural site—Yoko Ono’s Imagine Peace Tower. The tour is highly rated, with travelers praising the knowledgeable guides and the emotional impact of witnessing the tower flicker to life against the dark sky. The tour costs $120 per person, a reasonable price considering the unique blend of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and the chance to see the Northern Lights if nature cooperates.

What makes this experience stand out is the way it balances education and reflection with natural beauty. The tour starts promptly at 8:00 pm from Elding Whale Watching’s meeting point, where a small group (often just 8-20 people) boards a boat headed for Viðey Island. The boat ride itself is often highlighted as fun, with reviews mentioning the ease of the journey and the friendly, informative crew—some guides even share stories about the island’s history, the Peace Tower’s creation, and its global message of peace.

The journey to Viðey Island

Once aboard, you’ll cruise across the calm waters of Faxa Bay, with Reykjavik’s city lights receding into the background. The boat ride is generally safe and comfortable, and travelers frequently comment on how relaxing the journey is—especially given the chance to see the city from a different perspective. Some reviews mention the boat driver’s skills and the friendly atmosphere on board, making it feel more like visiting friends than a formal tour.

As you approach Viðey Island, the anticipation of seeing the illuminated Peace Tower grows. The island itself is a quiet, uninhabited space with pathways that lead to the monument, offering a peaceful setting that contrasts with the lively city. The guide leads the group through unpaved, sometimes uneven terrain, so sturdy footwear and warm clothing are necessary. Some reviews mention that the walk involves a steep climb to the viewing platform, which might be a consideration for travelers with limited mobility.

Visiting the Imagine Peace Tower

The highlight, of course, is watching the Tower’s lights ignite the night sky. Yoko Ono created the Peace Tower as a tribute to her late husband, John Lennon, and it beams a powerful message of hope and unity. Many reviewers describe the sight as breathtaking, especially when combined with the possibility of catching the Northern Lights dancing above. One reviewer noted: “Seeing it lit up and the Northern Lights surrounding it looked incredible.”

Throughout the tour, a video narration by Yoko Ono explains the significance of the monument, adding context and emotional depth. Travelers often note that this information enhances the experience, allowing them to connect more deeply with the artwork and its message. In addition, visitors can slip a peace message into a well at the site, creating a personal gesture of hope.

Photographers in the group find this moment particularly special. With the dark surroundings and the glow of the Tower, the scene is perfect for capturing memorable images. Some reviews mention the helpfulness of guides like Megan and Rob, who are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and even their photography tips.

The calm after the visit: warming up

After taking in the illuminated monument, the group heads to the island’s café for a warm drink—hot chocolate, coffee, or tea—offering a cozy moment to reflect and chat about the experience. The warmth and community feel of this part of the tour are often highlighted as a lovely way to decompress after the walk, especially on chilly Icelandic evenings.

Returning to Reykjavik

The boat ride back to Reykjavik is equally relaxing, with most travelers remarking on how the peaceful night sky, often lit by the Northern Lights, adds to the sense of serenity. One review captures this beautifully: “Our guide said the Northern Lights are out, and sure enough, they danced above us as we approached the city. It was the best night ever.”

The tour concludes back at the meeting point around 10:00 pm, ending a well-balanced blend of outdoor activity, cultural insight, and natural beauty. It’s a small-group experience that feels intimate and personal, making it ideal for travelers seeking a meaningful, less commercialized adventure.

Why this tour is worth considering

Given the reasonable price and the multiple elements packed in—boat cruise, cultural storytelling, a visit to a world-renowned art installation, and possible Northern Lights viewing—this experience offers good value. It’s especially appealing for those who love art with a message, enjoy quiet, contemplative environments, or simply want to escape the city’s hustle for an evening.

The small group size is a plus, allowing for tailored commentary and a more personal atmosphere. Guides like Megan and Rob are frequently praised for their friendliness and knowledge, adding an extra layer of richness to the experience. Photographers and those seeking meaningful travel moments will find this tour particularly rewarding.

However, the walking involved on uneven terrain and the potential for cold weather might be a deterrent for some. The tour is most suitable for travelers comfortable in these conditions and those who appreciate authentic experiences over luxury comforts.

Final thoughts

The Imagine Peace Tower Tour on Viðey Island is a thoughtfully curated excursion that combines art, history, and Icelandic nature. It’s a gentle yet powerful reminder of the universal longing for peace, beautifully set against the backdrop of the Icelandic night sky.

This experience is best for peace advocates, cultural enthusiasts, photographers, and those eager to witness the Northern Lights in a tranquil setting. It’s a fantastic way to spend an evening—peaceful, inspiring, and visually stunning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Generally yes, but it involves walking on uneven terrain and climbing to a viewing platform, so it may not be ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues.

What should I wear for the tour?
Dress warmly with layers, including a sturdy jacket, thermals, hat, scarf, and gloves. The tour involves outdoor walking in potentially cold and windy weather, so good footwear is essential.

Does the tour include hotel pickup or drop-off?
No, it doesn’t. The meeting point is at Elding Whale Watching, Ægisgarður 5c, 101 Reykjavík.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat cruise from Reykjavik to Viðey Island lasts approximately 30 minutes each way, providing a scenic and relaxing start and finish to the tour.

Can I participate if I have limited mobility?
It’s not recommended for travelers with limited mobility, as it involves walking on unpaved, sometimes steep, terrain.

Is there a chance to see the Northern Lights?
Yes, many reviews mention seeing the aurora borealis during the tour, especially if the sky is clear and geomagnetic activity is high.

What makes this tour special?
The combination of a scenic boat ride, the emotional impact of the Peace Tower, knowledgeable guides, and the possibility of Northern Lights makes this a unique, memorable experience.

Is food included?
No, but hot drinks are provided after the visit to the monument.

How far in advance should I book?
It’s recommended to book around 76 days in advance, as the tour is popular and often fills quickly.

This tour offers a meaningful, peaceful escape from the city, blending art, nature, and a touch of Icelandic magic. Whether you’re a Lennon fan, an art lover, or simply seeking a quiet, reflective night under the stars, it’s likely to leave you with lasting memories.