Northern Lights Tour from Reykjavik in a Super Jeep

Traveling to Iceland with hopes of witnessing the iconic Northern Lights? This tour promises an exciting adventure in a Super Jeep, offering an off-road journey into Iceland’s wilderness with the hope of catching the aurora borealis dancing in the sky. With around 236 reviews and a solid 4.0-star rating, it’s clear many travelers find this experience worthwhile — though, like nature itself, sighting the lights isn’t guaranteed.

What we really appreciate about this tour is the combination of off-road driving, the chance to escape light pollution, and the knowledgeable guides who fill the night with interesting insights. Plus, the flexibility to rebook if the weather doesn’t cooperate adds a reassuring touch of value. However, one thing to consider is that weather conditions and luck play major roles, so some may find disappointment if the sky remains stubbornly cloudy.

This trip is best suited for travelers eager for an active, immersive experience in Iceland’s countryside, especially those who enjoy a bit of adventure and don’t mind cold nights. It’s also ideal for those who value expert guidance and are prepared for the unpredictable nature of chasing the Northern Lights.

Key Points

• Off-road super jeep experience offers better access to remote viewing spots.
• Weather-dependent, so no guarantees but rebooking is available.
• Knowledgeable local guides enhance the experience with insights and tips.
• Flexible rebooking policy ensures you can try again at no extra cost if you miss the lights.
• Group size limited to 16, making it more intimate than large bus tours.
• Includes hot chocolate and biscuits, perfect for warming up in the cold.

The Experience in Detail

When you book this tour, you’re signing up for more than just a chase for the aurora. It’s about the adventure, learning, and comfort wrapped into one 4-hour outing. Starting with a pickup from your Reykjavik hotel (or designated spot), your journey kicks off in a custom-built Super Jeep. Think massive tires, rugged design, and enough space to stretch out comfortably — a stark contrast to cramped minivans or buses. Several reviewers, such as Daniel H, appreciated the off-road capability, noting that these vehicles can reach secluded spots away from the crowds and light pollution.

The Ride Out of Reykjavik

The drive itself takes around 45 minutes to an hour, heading into Iceland’s darker countryside. During this time, your guide — often a local with deep knowledge about the Northern Lights and Iceland’s terrain — will share interesting facts and stories. Some reviews mention guides like Magnus and Aron, who are praised for their friendly approach and eagerness to enhance the experience.

The journey to the perfect viewing spot involves bouncing over uneven terrain, which can be a fun part of the adventure or a challenge if you’re prone to motion sickness. Sitting in the front might be a better choice if you’re sensitive to bumps, as one reviewer pointed out. Warm clothing is essential, as the combination of wind chill and outdoor exposure can make even the warmest jackets feel inadequate. Many travelers, including Sandra D, appreciated the hot chocolate and biscuits provided, which helped stave off the chill.

The Search for the Aurora

Once you arrive at the chosen location, the guide will set up the scene for optimal viewing. The spot is selected based on the forecast and real-time weather conditions, aiming to avoid cloud cover. Here’s where the unpredictability comes in. Some guests, like Susan P, admired the effort even when the lights were faint, “a glimpse of the aurora,” she called it, was still enough to make her happy.

Throughout the night, guides do their best to find the clearest sky and suggest the best angle. Several reviews highlight how dedicated guides are — some even pull over multiple times if the Aurora intensifies, as Ryan C recounted. Others, like Dakota L, praised the guide for taking lots of photos and being friendly, which makes the experience even more memorable.

The Value of Rebooking

A significant advantage of this tour is the rebooking policy. If the night’s weather prevents seeing the lights, you can simply reschedule at no extra cost, subject to availability. This is a major plus, especially considering Iceland’s unpredictable weather. Films like Allison E’s appreciate this flexibility, recognizing it’s a smart way to handle the variable conditions.

Group Size & Comfort

Limited to 16 participants, the group tends to be small enough for personalized attention but still sizable enough to maintain a lively atmosphere. However, some reviewers, like Fatemeh B, found the vehicle description slightly misleading — the Super Jeep isn’t a single-seater but more like a mini-bus, which might affect your expectations.

Additional Features

The tour includes hot chocolate and biscuits, which many find a cozy addition, especially on freezing nights. It’s a simple but thoughtful touch that keeps guests comfortable while waiting for the lights. No meals or drinks are included beyond this, so plan accordingly if you want to bring extra snacks.

The Review from Travelers

Feedback paints a mostly positive picture, with certain nuances. Many travelers, like Jack and Dakota, rave about the dedicated guides and the chance to see the Aurora. They mention the off-road vehicle as a big advantage, allowing access to less crowded spots.

On the flip side, some reviews point out disappointments with weather or misleading vehicle descriptions. For instance, a guest in Keflavik expressed frustration that the pickup wasn’t available for their location, and others noted that the lights’ visibility is never guaranteed due to weather.

Several reviews highlight the passion and knowledge of guides, with comments about fun, friendly, and full-of-facts personalities. The hot chocolate, biscuits, and photos are consistently appreciated, providing warmth and keepsakes of the night.

The Cost & Value

At around $197 per person, this tour offers a relatively premium experience in terms of comfort, guide expertise, and flexibility. When compared to other options, the off-road vehicle and small group size stand out as significant value-added features. The ability to rebook if the Aurora doesn’t show up turns this into an essentially low-risk investment in a potential once-in-a-lifetime sighting.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re someone who values expert guidance and personalized experiences, this tour is a good pick. It’s perfect for adventurers, outdoor lovers, or anyone keen to escape the city lights and chase the elusive Northern Lights in comfort. Be prepared for the cold and unpredictability, and you’ll appreciate the flexibility and effort guides make to maximize your chances.

Travelers who want to avoid large groups or prefer a more intimate setting will find the small group size beneficial. It’s also an excellent choice if you appreciate local insights and enjoy a cozy drink in the middle of a snowy night.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes Reykjavik pick-up and return, a guided excursion in a customized SUV, hot chocolate and biscuits, and expert local guides.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 4 hours, starting with pickup, traveling into the countryside, and ending with drop-off back at your hotel.

What should I wear?
Warm outdoor clothing is essential, including waterproof gear, a hat, and gloves. Expect the outdoor conditions to be cold, especially given the time of year.

Can I rebook if I don’t see the Northern Lights?
Yes, the tour allows you to rebook at no extra cost if the lights are not visible due to weather or other factors, subject to availability.

How big are the groups?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 16 participants, offering a more intimate experience compared to larger bus tours.

Is the vehicle really a Super Jeep?
Yes, the vehicle is a specially adapted SUV with monster tires measuring over 38 inches. Some reviews mention that the vehicle resembles a mini-bus, which could be misleading but ensures ample space and capability.

What if the weather cancels the tour?
If canceled due to weather, you will be offered a full refund or another date for your tour. The experience is weather dependent, so flexibility is built in.

Final Thoughts

The Northern Lights Tour from Reykjavik in a Super Jeep is a robust, adventure-packed option for those wanting to maximize their chances of seeing the aurora while enjoying Iceland’s rugged landscapes. The off-road capability and small group size give it an edge over standard bus tours, creating a more personalized experience. The dedicated guides often become highlights, sharing stories and tips that enrich the night.

While the experience does depend heavily on weather and luck, the rebooking policy provides peace of mind. The cozy touches like hot chocolate and the chance to take memorable photos add to the overall appeal. It’s a good fit for travelers who value expert attention, adventurous travel, and flexibility.

If you’re prepared for cold nights and the possibility of disappointment due to weather, this tour offers a memorable, authentic way to chase one of Iceland’s most breathtaking natural phenomena.

Additional Questions

What is the minimum age to join this tour?
Most travelers can participate, but specific age restrictions aren’t listed — it’s best to check with the supplier directly.

Do I need hiking shoes?
Yes, a moderate amount of walking is involved, so good hiking shoes are highly recommended.

Can I bring extra food or drinks?
The tour includes hot chocolate and biscuits, but other food and drinks are not included.

What happens if the tour gets canceled?
You’ll be offered a full refund or a reschedule if canceled due to weather or other issues.

Is this tour suitable for photographers?
Yes, guides often take plenty of photos, and the scenery offers many opportunities for capturing the lights and landscapes.

Can I see other Icelandic sights on this tour?
This tour focuses solely on hunting for the Northern Lights; other sights aren’t part of the itinerary.

Is the vehicle accessible if I have mobility issues?
Since the vehicle involves stairs and off-road terrain, it may not be suitable for those with significant mobility restrictions.