Northern Lights Bus Tour from Reykjavik

Quick overview

This Northern Lights bus tour from Reykjavik is designed for travelers eager to witness the aurora borealis without the hassle of planning every detail. For around $69 per person, you’ll enjoy approximately four hours of travel into the Icelandic countryside with a knowledgeable guide, hot chocolate in hand, and the chance to see one of nature’s most spectacular light shows. The tour offers pickup from Reykjavik hotels, WiFi onboard, and a flexible rescheduling policy if the lights decide to play hard to get.

What we love about this experience is the expert guidance and tailored spots based on weather conditions—crucial for maximizing your chances. One potential consideration is that the sighting of the Northern Lights is never guaranteed, as this depends on weather and solar activity, so patience and luck are key. Perfect for those who don’t want to drive in the dark or prefer a relaxed, guided experience, this tour suits travelers who want a good shot at seeing the auroras with some comfort and expert tips along the way.

Key Points

• Flexible scheduling allows you to reschedule for free if the Northern Lights don’t appear.
• Expert guides use weather data to choose the best viewing locations, improving your chances.
• The 4-hour tour includes scenic stops and storytelling, adding cultural context.
• Comfortable transportation with WiFi and hot chocolate makes the wait more enjoyable.
• Age restrictions apply (minimum 6 years old), making it family-friendly.
• Weather-dependent experience means clear skies are essential for success.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting point: Reykjavik pickup

Most travelers appreciate the convenience of hotel pickup, which saves time and effort. The tour departs at around 9:30 pm, a time aligned with the sunset and optimal darkness, making it easier to spot the auroras once conditions are right. Pickup can take up to 30 minutes, so we recommend being ready on time to avoid missing the start.

First stop: Thingvellir National Park

Your journey takes you away from the city’s bright lights into the peaceful countryside. Thingvellir is a familiar stop on many Iceland tours, but here it’s chosen as a prime spot for aurora viewing because of its dark skies and minimal light pollution. While waiting for the lights to dance above, guides like Harold and Jessica keep the atmosphere lively with stories and facts about Icelandic folklore and the science behind the auroras.

One reviewer mentions, “Harold shared so much on the route, making the experience both educational and entertaining.” This highlights the value of an informed guide who makes the wait engaging.

Multiple location tries

It’s common for guides to try a few different spots if the auroras are shy. The goal is to find a clear, dark view of the sky, which is essential for catching the best display. Travelers note that hot chocolate and restroom stops are included at the stops, providing comfort during the long wait. Several reviews highlight how these small touches—like warm drinks—make the experience more enjoyable.

Weather and visibility

The success of this tour hinges on clear, cloud-free skies. Guides keep a close eye on the weather forecast and adjust locations accordingly, which many reviewers find reassuring. If the Northern Lights don’t show up, you can reschedule for free, a great safety net for those traveling during unpredictable winter weather.

Duration and group size

The tour lasts about 4 hours, making it a manageable evening activity. With a maximum group size of 65 travelers, it feels lively but not overly crowded. Many reviews praise the guides for their knowledge, with specific mentions of guides like Petra and Jessica going above and beyond to make sure everyone gets the best experience.

Transportation & comfort

The journey is on a comfortable coach bus with WiFi onboard, which adds a nice touch especially if you want to share your experience or look up more information about the lights. Reviewers frequently mention how the comfortable bus and friendly guides make waiting more bearable.

Authentic insights from reviews

Multiple reviewers highlight the knowledge and enthusiasm of the guides. Petra was commended for her expertise, and Harold’s storytelling kept the group entertained. “We saw the lights multiple times on different stops,” mentions one guest, emphasizing the importance of multiple viewing opportunities.

Some travelers, like Jenna, experienced the disappointment of late pick-up or crowded buses, but overall, many found the experience fulfilling. A few noted they ventured out independently to try their luck, but most agree that the guided tour offers better odds and insights into the science and folklore of the auroras.

What’s included?

• Pickup from Reykjavik hotels
• WiFi on the bus
• Hot chocolate and restroom stops
• Rescheduling if no sighting

What’s not included?

• Dinner (so consider grabbing a late-night snack before or after)
• Specific photography tips aren’t officially provided, but many guides help with camera settings if asked

How good is the value for money?

At $69, this tour is competitively priced given the inclusion of pick-up, WiFi, and rescheduling. When you consider the cost of renting a car or trying to chase the lights on your own, the convenience and expertise offered here are worth it. Plus, the possibility of multiple aurora sightings in one night adds to the value.

Reviewers often mention that hot chocolate and a warm bus are simple yet appreciated perks, especially on cold Icelandic nights. The tour’s flexibility—free rescheduling—also means you’re not out of luck if weather doesn’t cooperate the first time.

Final thoughts: Who’s this tour best for?

If you’re someone who prefers not to drive at night or wants the guidance of locals who know the best spots based on weather conditions, this tour offers peace of mind. It’s ideal for families with children aged 6 and above, couples, or solo travelers eager to tick off the Northern Lights from their Iceland bucket list.

Those who value comfort and flexibility will appreciate the WiFi, hot drinks, and the ability to rebook if the lights don’t show. However, if your priority is a guaranteed spectacular sighting, remember that nature’s unpredictable and no tour can promise a sighting every single night.

The Sum Up

This Northern Lights bus tour from Reykjavik offers a practical, enjoyable way to chase the aurora borealis with guidance from experienced locals. The mix of scenic stops, educational storytelling, and cozy comforts makes it a popular choice, especially considering its affordable price point. While the auroras aren’t guaranteed, the tour’s flexibility and focus on weather-dependent locations significantly boost your chances of witnessing this incredible natural phenomenon.

Designed for travelers who prefer a no-fuss, guided experience with knowledgeable guides and a friendly atmosphere, this tour is a smart way to maximize your Northern Lights adventure. It’s especially suited for those who don’t want the stress of planning logistics or driving in winter conditions but still want a serious shot at seeing the lights dance across Iceland’s winter sky.

FAQs

What time does the tour start?
The tour departs around 9:30 pm, aligning with the best dark skies for aurora viewing. Pickup can take up to 30 minutes, so be ready on time.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 4 hours, making it a manageable activity for an evening outing.

Can I reschedule if I don’t see the lights?
Yes, you can rebook for free on another night if the auroras don’t appear during your scheduled tour.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in windproof, waterproof clothing and sturdy footwear, as it can get very cold at night.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, the minimum age is 6 years old, making it family-friendly.

What’s included in the price?
Pickup, WiFi, hot chocolate, and the chance to see the Northern Lights. No dinner is included.

How many people are on the bus?
Tour groups typically include up to 65 travelers, keeping the experience lively but comfortable.

What if the weather is cloudy or poor?
The tour is weather-dependent; if conditions are unsuitable, the tour will be canceled or rescheduled at no extra cost.

In summary, this guided Northern Lights bus tour offers a balanced mix of comfort, knowledge, and flexibility, making it an excellent option for travelers wanting to experience Iceland’s most famous natural spectacle without the stress of self-driving. Be prepared for a chilly but memorable night under the Icelandic sky, and hope that Mother Nature puts on her best show for you.