Northern Lights Guided Bus Tour from Reykjavik

Northern Lights Guided Bus Tour from Reykjavik Review: A Practical Look at Iceland’s Most Popular Aurora Chase

Seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland is often top of mind for travelers visiting during the winter months, and many opt for guided tours to maximize their chances of witnessing this celestial dance. The Northern Lights Guided Bus Tour from Reykjavik, offered by Reykjavik Excursions, promises a comfortable, informative, and potentially magical experience. Priced at around $66 per person, this tour operates from September through April, making it a seasonal must-see.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its convenience—it includes pick-up from central Reykjavik and Wi-Fi onboard, making it easy to relax and stay connected during the journey. A dedicated guide explains the science behind the aurora borealis, adding an educational twist that many travelers find engaging. However, a key consideration is that sighting the lights isn’t guaranteed, and weather conditions can make or break your chances.

This tour is ideal for those who want a stress-free, guided experience with the reassurance of rebooking if the lights don’t appear. It may not satisfy travelers seeking a small-group, highly personalized outing, but it offers solid value for anyone eager to give the Northern Lights a shot with minimal fuss.

Key Points

• Comfortable Transportation: Bus equipped with Wi-Fi, climate control, and pickup service from Reykjavik.
• Educational Content: Guides explain the science of the aurora and its varying colors and brightness.
• Flexible Rebooking Policy: If you don’t see the lights, you can join another tour free of charge.
• Weather-Dependent Experience: Sightings are not guaranteed, so keep expectations realistic.
• Group Size and Atmosphere: Large groups can feel impersonal, but the organization is generally praised.
• Ideal for First-Timers: Offers a straightforward, accessible way to try for the Northern Lights without the hassle of driving or planning multiple stops.

A Deep Dive into the Northern Lights Guided Bus Tour

What’s Included and How It Works

Starting at the BSÍ Bus Terminal in Reykjavik, the tour takes you on a roughly 3-5 hour journey out of the city. The pickup service is a big plus, especially if you’re staying centrally—no need to worry about taxis or public transport. Once aboard, you’ll settle in with Wi-Fi to share your photos or browse while awaiting the lights.

A professional local guide is on hand to share insights about the science behind the aurora, explaining how solar particles interact with Earth’s atmosphere to create those shimmering curtains. This educational element adds value, especially if you’re genuinely curious about what makes the northern lights dance.

The Route and Viewing Spots

The itinerary varies depending on weather and aurora forecasts—this is both the tour’s strength and its Achilles’ heel. The guides are experienced and try to find the best possible locations, often near the airport or other open spaces away from city lights.

Some reviews mention specific stops like a parking lot near the airport, where multiple buses gather. Others note that the sites can sometimes be on the main road, with passing cars and trucks creating less-than-ideal conditions. One reviewer, Rochelle, shared that most of the drive was spent managing expectations and standing outside in cold, sometimes windy weather, which underscores the importance of dressing warmly.

The Experience of the Aurora

Seeing the northern lights is entirely dependent on weather, solar activity, and atmospheric conditions. Reviewers have varied experiences—some have been lucky enough to witness spectacular displays, with guides like Nico doing a great job at “keeping the mood upbeat” even when the lights aren’t visible.

One traveler described their experience as “mesmerizing,” mentioning they were taken to the National Park, and appreciated learning about the science behind the phenomenon. Others, however, had nights where no lights appeared, with some feeling disappointed after spending a couple of hours standing outside in freezing temperatures. As one reviewer put it, “You stand outside in the cold, hoping for a glimpse,” which highlights the unpredictability of this natural show.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is a strong choice for first-time visitors wanting a no-hassle, guided approach. If you’re okay with the possibility of missing out on the lights, but appreciate learning about science and the chance to rebook if you do not see anything, this is a good pick. It’s also well-suited for travelers on a budget, given its relatively affordable price and included amenities like Wi-Fi.

However, if you’re seeking an intimate, small-group experience, or you’re an avid photographer wanting the perfect shot, you might find this large-group tour a bit impersonal. The reviews also suggest that you’ll want to bundle up—some describe the experience as “very cold,” and you’ll need to be prepared for potentially standing outside for extended periods.

The Value in Focus

At $66, this tour offers reasonable value, especially considering the convenience of transportation, Wi-Fi, and the guides’ educational input. The possibility of rejoining the tour free of charge if the lights don’t show up makes it more attractive, but keep in mind that, due to weather or solar activity, a sighting isn’t guaranteed. Some reviews mention that other companies might take you to different spots, and sometimes, a better sighting is just luck.

Potential Drawbacks and Caveats

The main issue with this tour is the uncertainty of seeing the aurora. Several travelers report nights where the lights weren’t visible, and some felt the experience was underwhelming because the tour didn’t meet expectations. One review called it “a total joke and waste of time,” citing poor organization and a lack of interaction from the guide, which highlights that not all experiences are equal.

Plus, large group sizes and the fact that some stops are on busy roads can detract from the overall experience. Weather cancellation is a real possibility, and you should be prepared for the possibility of disappointment, especially if your trip is tightly scheduled.

Practical Tips for Your Northern Lights Bus Tour

• Dress warmly: Layer up, including hats, gloves, and sturdy shoes. Expect to stand outside for some time.
• Book early: Average bookings are made 37 days in advance, so secure your spot early, especially if your trip is during peak months.
• Plan for flexibility: Book early in your trip to allow rebooking if you don’t see the lights on your first attempt.
• Bring a good camera: While the guides can’t guarantee perfect photos, having a camera with manual settings can help you capture the fleeting moments.
• Manage expectations: Remember, the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon—they’re unpredictable and weather plays a big role.

Final Thoughts

This guided bus tour offers a comfortable, educational, and economical way to chase the Northern Lights from Reykjavík. The inclusion of Wi-Fi, professional guidance, and a flexible rebooking policy add to its appeal, especially for first-time visitors or those who prefer to leave driving and logistics to someone else.

While the experience hinges on weather and solar activity, many travelers leave with memorable stories—whether that’s witnessing the lights or simply enjoying the starry Icelandic sky in the cold night air. It’s best suited for those who are flexible, curious about the science, and willing to brave the cold for a chance at one of Iceland’s most iconic sights.

For anyone looking for a straightforward, well-organized tour that won’t break the bank, this option is worth considering—just keep your expectations realistic, dress warmly, and stay hopeful.

FAQ

What’s included in the tour?
The tour includes bus fare, professional guidance, and free Wi-Fi onboard. It starts from the BSÍ Bus Terminal and takes you to several potential viewing locations.

Can I cancel and get a refund?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancelling less than 24 hours before the departure means no refund.

Is the Northern Lights guaranteed?
No, sightings are weather-dependent and not guaranteed. If conditions aren’t right, you can rebook to try again at no extra cost.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly—think layers, hats, gloves, and waterproof shoes—as you’ll be outdoors for a while in cold Icelandic winter nights.

How long does the tour last?
Expect approximately 3 to 5 hours, depending on weather and sightings.

What if I don’t see the lights?
You are allowed to rejoin the tour on another night free of charge. Some reviews suggest success varies based on conditions, so patience is key.

To sum it up, if you’re after a practical, reliable way to chase the Northern Lights in Iceland with educational guidance and the comfort of a bus, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s particularly suitable for first-timers, budget travelers, and those happy with the possibility of not seeing the lights but still enjoying a night under the Icelandic sky. Just stay warm, keep your expectations in check, and enjoy the ride—sometimes, the journey is just as magical as the destination.