Reykjavik: Small Group Northern Lights Tour

If you’re visiting Iceland in winter, chances are you’re dreaming of witnessing the famous Aurora Borealis dancing across the night sky. While seeing the Northern Lights is never guaranteed, this small group tour from Reykjavik aims to give you the best shot at catching this natural spectacle. At an accessible price of around $111 per person, the tour offers a cozy, intimate experience led by knowledgeable guides, with plenty of time to marvel at the lights and snap photos.

One aspect we particularly like is the small group size—a maximum of 19 people—which ensures a more personal, less crowded experience. The fact that you can join again for free if the lights don’t show on your first attempt is a thoughtful touch, especially since Aurora sightings depend heavily on weather and solar activity. However, a potential downside is the inconvenience of pick-up locations and return routes, as some travelers have expressed dissatisfaction with walkable distances and drop-off arrangements. This tour is perfect for those who value expert guidance, a more intimate atmosphere, and flexibility during their Iceland adventure.

Key Points

• Expert-guided experience increases your chances of seeing the Aurora
• Small group size ensures more personalized attention and better viewing spots
• Weather dependency means sightings are not guaranteed, but re-booking is an option
• Comfortable transportation and cozy blankets make the chilly nights more bearable
• Timing aligns with the winter months, from late August to April
• Photography advice is available, helping you capture the lights at their best

An In-Depth Look at the Reykjavik Small Group Northern Lights Tour

What to Expect from the Tour Experience

The adventure begins at the BSI Bus Terminal in Reykjavik, where you’ll meet your guide and fellow travelers about 30 minutes before departure. The group size maxes out at 19 people, which makes for a more relaxed atmosphere than large bus tours. The guide, whose expertise is key to this tour’s success, will take you on a comfortable bus ride to a dark, quiet spot away from the city glow—an essential step because light pollution diminishes Aurora visibility.

The choice of location each night depends on weather conditions, cloud cover, and Aurora forecast data, all coordinated by your guide. This adaptive approach is a major plus, as it increases your odds of witnessing the lights in their full glory. Once at the chosen site, you’ll have plenty of time to watch, photograph, and simply soak in the spectacle. The guide is also available to share tips on how to photograph the Aurora, which can be tricky to catch with a smartphone, especially in cold and low-light conditions.

Transportation and Comfort

The bus is described as warm and comfortable, with blankets provided to keep you cozy during the wait. Given the cold Icelandic nights, dressing warmly is absolutely essential. Travelers should bring warm clothing, hats, gloves, and sturdy hiking shoes—a must for comfort and safety, especially if the night involves any walking. Some reviews mention inconvenience regarding pick-up and drop-off points, with one traveler noting they had to walk 20 minutes at 1 AM to return to their hotel, which highlights the importance of planning ahead if you’re staying out late or prefer easier logistics.

Duration and Flexibility

The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, with specific start times varying based on availability. It’s a fairly short window, making it a good option for travelers with tight schedules or those wanting to combine it with other activities. The ability to rebook the tour free of charge if you don’t see the lights on your first trip is a significant benefit, especially since Aurora activity is unpredictable. This flexibility can ease some of the disappointment if cloud cover or poor conditions hide the lights initially.

The Aurora Borealis: What You’ll Likely See

The Northern Lights appear in many forms and colors, with light green and pink being the most common. The phenomenon occurs when particles from the sun interact with Earth’s magnetic field, creating shimmering curtains of light that can dance across the sky for minutes or hours. Seeing them in Iceland during the winter months (late August to April) is ideal, and this tour’s timing aligns well with prime viewing season.

Guides and Authentic Insights

The guides are described as professional and knowledgeable, which adds real value. They can provide basic info about the Aurora and answer questions, making your experience more educational and engaging. Some reviews mention that guides like “Jón” or “Sara” made an effort to take care of the group, explaining the science behind the lights and offering photography tips. This level of expertise boosts your chances of having a memorable, Instagram-worthy shot.

What the Reviews Reveal: Authentic Traveler Insights

While most reviews are positive, some travelers have voiced concerns about logistics. One reviewer shared a less-than-ideal experience: paying for the tour only to be part of a large group of 20, which felt crowded. Plus, they found the pick-up location inconvenient and had to walk 20 minutes at 1 AM to return to their hotel, which can be tiring after a chilly night of waiting. This highlights the importance of assessing your comfort level with group size and walking distances when choosing this tour.

On the bright side, many travelers praised the guide’s knowledge and the stunning views they enjoyed. Witnessing the Northern Lights in an unspoiled Icelandic setting, with expert commentary and the ability to ask questions, significantly enhances the experience for those seeking more than just a quick photo.

Is This Tour Worth the Price?

At $111, this tour offers a solid value for the experience of a lifetime—if you’re lucky enough to see the Aurora. The inclusion of warm blankets, Wi-Fi on the bus, and the flexible rebooking policy sweeten the deal. For travelers who prioritize small group intimacy and expert guidance**, this is a compelling choice. However, if logistics or walkability are a concern, or if you’re simply wanting to rent a car and chase the lights independently, you might consider other options.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travellers who want a guided, educational, and cozy way to see the Northern Lights without the hassle of organizing their own hunt. It’s ideal for those who appreciate small group settings, expert guides, and the flexibility to rebook if the lights stay hidden. It’s also suitable for anyone prepared for cold weather and willing to dress warmly.

If you’re traveling with kids—over 3 years old—this could also work, provided they’re comfortable waiting out in the cold. Just be prepared for the potential inconvenience mentioned in some reviews, especially if you’re staying in accommodations outside the city center.

Final Thoughts

This small group Northern Lights tour from Reykjavik delivers an intimate, guided experience that balances comfort with the thrill of chasing the Aurora Borealis. The knowledgeable guides, combined with flexible rebooking options, make it a reliable choice for those serious about seeing the lights but aware of Iceland’s unpredictable weather.

While the logistics could be improved—particularly the pick-up and drop-off arrangements—the overall value lies in the professional guidance and the chance to witness one of nature’s most mesmerizing phenomena in a stunning winter landscape. For travelers who enjoy small-group adventures, crave expert insights, and prioritize a cozy, personalized experience, this tour could very well become a highlight of your Iceland trip.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 3 hours, with specific start times depending on availability.

What is included in the price?
You get a bus ticket, free Wi-Fi on the bus, a professional local guide, a small group experience, and blankets to keep warm.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the bus is described as warm and comfortable, with blankets provided. Dress warmly to stay cozy.

Can I see the Northern Lights every night?
No, sightings depend on weather and solar activity, which are unpredictable. The guide will choose the best location based on conditions.

What should I bring?
Warm clothing, hat, gloves, and hiking shoes are essential for comfort and safety.

Is rebooking free if I don’t see the lights?
Yes, you can join the tour again at no extra cost if the Aurora wasn’t visible during your first attempt.

Are there any age restrictions?
This tour isn’t suitable for children under 3 years old.

What happens if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions prevent a good Aurora sighting, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled. Check your emails and hotel reception for updates.

In brief, this tour offers a well-rounded, guided approach to one of Iceland’s most breathtaking natural displays. While not guaranteed, the combination of expert guidance, cozy comfort, and flexible rebooking makes it a worthwhile choice for hopeful aurora hunters.