northern lights christmas tours

Northern Lights Luxury Holiday Packages For 2024 & 2025

Tick the amazing northern lights off your bucket list.

• Sweden Holidays
• Norway Holidays
• Tromso Holidays
• Greenland Holidays
• Lapland Holidays
• Finland Holidays
• Iceland Holidays
• North Pole Holidays
• Finland Glass Igloo Holiday
• Finland Ice Hotel Holiday
• Iceland Ice Hotel Holiday
• Norway Ice Hotel Holiday
• Sweden Ice Hotel Holiday
• Norway Northern Lights
• Finland Northern Lights
• Sweden Northern Lights
• Lapland Northern Lights
• Scuba Diving
• Finland, Christmas Holiday
• Lapland, Christmas Holiday

Northern Lights Holiday Packages

More than half the population has named a Northern Lights holiday as part of their bucket list. This natural phenomenon, known as the Aurora Borealis, is the famous colourful lights that can be seen across the Arctic night sky. However, seeing the Northern Lights isn’t guaranteed as their appearance differs by location and season. While the Northern Lights appear in the Arctic – places which are located remotely, far up in the North feature much lower light pollution which makes for a greater display of the Aurora. The Northern Lights season starts in September and ends by the end of March.

Our Arctic experts have created a selection of amazing luxury northern lights holiday Packages for 2024 & 2025 which enhance your chances of seeing the Northern Lights greatly. Whether this means sleeping in a Glass Igloo which allows you to spectate the northern skies from the warmth and comfort of your bed – or spending a night in an Ice Hotel which features an Aurora alarm. Our team has carefully selected various unique accommodation types to give you the most opportunities to see the Aurora Borealis.

What our customers say

Mattarahkka certainly lived up to its billing. The hosts were excellent: friendly and always obliging. We enjoyed the activities and we were fortunate to see the Aurora on our final night!

• Santa Visit
• Northern Lights Hunt
• Family Husky Safari
• Prices from per family of 4

• Couples Holiday
• Romantic Package
• Prices from per person

• Northern Lights Holiday
• Panorama Cabin

• Fine Dining experience

• Northern Lights Excursions
• Aurora Bubble Accommodation

• Aurora Cabin
• Husky Safaris

• Northern Lights prime location
• Tepee Dining
• Arctic Excursions

• Luxury Christmas Experience
• Northern Lights
• From price based on a family of 4 (2A + 2C under 14)

• Direct flights
• Wilderness escape
• per person prices from

• Small group Whale watching
• Northern Lights Alarm

• World's most Northernly hotel
• Northern Lights evening
• Snowmobile safari
• From price per person

• Dog sledding
• Wilderness Adventure
• Prices per person from

• Glass Roof Aurora Cabins
• Fantastic activities
• Price per person from

• Glass Igloos - Special Offers
• Aurora Bubble or Cabin - Special Offers
• Last Minute Deals
• From Price Per Person

• Perfect for Northern Lights
• From price PP

• Glass-roof Aurora Cabins
• Wide range of Activities
• Restaurant Kota and Ice bar
• From price pp

• Direct Flights from Gatwick and Stanstead, Return
• Four Activities Included
• Three Nights Holiday Apartment
• From price per person, based on 2 people sharing

• Great Value for Money
• Selection of Activities
• Cosy and Comfortable Accommodation

• 4 nights Superior Sauna Room
• 7 hour Husky Safari
• Price from pp

• Aurora Alarm
• 4x Activities
• Thermal clothing for duration

• Activities included
• Prices from Per Person

• Glass Igloo
• Flights and accomdation
• Price includes 3 * activities

• Aurora spa visit
• Northern Lights Snowmobile with dinner
• Aurora Colosseum with dinner
• Price per person

• 98% Northern Lights Success Rate
• 6 opportunities to search for the Aurora in the best possible locations
• Based on two people sharing, price from

• 24 hour City Pass
• Drive your own Husky sled
• 2 nights Stockholm, 2 Nights Tree Hotel
• Price PP from

• Hot tub for Northern lights

• Excellent Accommodation
• All activities

• Guesthouse with hot tub
• Guided Activities
• The best of Iceland

• 2 days riding
• Blue Lagoon
• Unspoilt countryside

• Arctic Eden Hotel
• Husky safari
• Northern Lights snowmobile tour

• Flights included
• Prices Per Person from

• Popular sights
• Relax in the Hot Tub!
• Flights & dinner included

• Northern Lights meal & hot tub
• Day husky safari
• All transfers

• Overnight Snowmobile adventure
• Ice Hotel visit

• Flights London or Manchester
• Reindeer encounter
• Overnight snowmobile safari

• Queen Suite with Private Hot tub
• Private horse sleigh ride
• 3x Activities Included
• Price from PP

Enquire Online Now

To find out more about this package, please enter your details below. Once we've reviewed your enquiry we'll be in contact to discuss how we can help. You can also call all our Arctic holiday specialists today on +44(0)1793 939035 .

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Call us today on +44(0)1793 939035

Arctic Direct is the UK’s most comprehensive Arctic Travel specialists and have helped thousands of people like you find their perfect Arctic holiday.

Unrivalled customer support Handpicked Arctic holidays

Expert advice Best prices on the web

Northern Lights Holidays

While it starts at finding the ideal accommodation – this is certainly not where it ends. Our Northern Lights holiday packages come with a selection of activities which can bring you one step closer to ticking the Northern Lights of your bucket list. These can range from a visit to the Aurora Camp to Aurora Snowshoeing. All excursions are led by local experts which know the best spots in the area to spectate the colourful display of lights.

Whether you are looking to see the  Northern Lights in Finland , Iceland, Sweden or Norway – Team Arctic Direct knows the best spots. Whether you are hoping to just see the Northern Lights or you wish to combine your adventure with another Arctic experience such as  whale watching in Norway or visiting Svalbard the Land of Polar Bears – we can design the perfect Northern Light Holiday Package for you.

Maximise your chances with a luxury Northern Lights Holiday from the experts. For a once in a lifetime trip contact us and take advantage of our knowledge and experience to ensure you the package that is right for you.

Were you also aware that a counterpart to the Northern Lights, known as the Aurora borealis, exists in the southern hemisphere? Referred to as the Southern Lights or Aurora australis, these captivating displays illuminate the skies in the southern hemisphere, mirroring the phenomenon seen in the northern hemisphere.

Expert corner:

Charlotte: “ Lapland guesthouse is just spectacular. The friendliest and most knowledgeable host, a hot tub to soak in whilst waiting for the aurora to make a show and quality home cooked meals with local ingredients. Not to mention a beautiful little bar packed with Swedish whisky! Hannah: “I have visited the Ice Hotel various times and the display of Northern Lights I was able to witness was absolutely gorgeous! Staying in an Ice Room is a unique experience that should make an addition to everyone’s bucket list.” Lou: “I have been to Kakslauttanen twice now. The Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort has stolen my heart away. There is nothing quite like looking at the Northern Lights from the warmth of their beautiful traditional igloos.” Steve: “I highly recommend spending your Northern Lights Holiday at the Nellim Wilderness Hotel . The cozy Aurora Bubbles give you an amazing view of the Arctic skies – and Nellim’s packages are filled with an abundance of thrilling activities.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Should you wish to change your order after your payment has been processed, please call us immediately on +613 8290 0599 and we will try our best to accommodate your request.  There may be some instances where we are unable to modify your order.

Between September and April the Northern Lights can be seen somewhere in the world, and almost every night. It can be faint, it can be brief, but it is there somewhere! If you want to see them, the best chances are by going somewhere that gets them frequently and where you are least likely to have your view impeded by light pollution and cloud cover

Absolutely! Often they can look “better” or “brighter” with a camera. Particularly when it is a faint display or if your eyes aren’t fully adjusted to the dark but you can ABSOLUTELY, 100% see them with the bare eye!

The biggest thing that will stop you, is not being in the right place at the right time! We’re happy to help you get over those hurdles! If you come to us with no preconceptions of where or when you want to go, we can create a package that would give you a 90% chance of seeing them.

It can be seconds, it can be hours! That’s part of the excitement of the chase!

Sometimes! Depending on the flight times you can absolutely see the Northern Lights out of the window of an airplane!

As a rule, like we say above, between September and April the Northern Lights will be seen somewhere around the Arctic circle every night. Even if really briefly and very faint. At our top resorts generally they will be there at some time in the evening roughly 2 out of 3 nights during the peak times, you just need a clear sky, no light pollution and to be looking up at the right time!

Have our Northern Lights FAQs helped? If we haven’t answered your question then please get in touch with the Arctic Direct team at 01793 939 035 or email us !

View our other Northern Lights Holiday Destinations

Bookings & Enquiries

Our staff will respond to your query promptly and provide detailed information to your questions.

Aurora Highlights Independent

Aurora Village Ivalo

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• Best Seller

5 days - Aurora Glass Cabin | Snow Hotel | Northern Lights - Kirkenes to Ivalo

Visit one of the northernmost inhabited areas in the world and experience a unique Sami culture, amazing scenery and exhilarating winter activities with this short highlights tour. Spend a night in the magical Kirkenes Snow Hotel and try your hand at dog-sledding, arctic king crab fishing and reindeer sledding. If conditions are right —be dazzled by the northern lights, preferably on the night you are sleeping in an Aurora Glass Cabin in Northern Finland.

This tour can also be done in reverse, starting in Ivalo. Read a testimonial of this from March 2023.

Highlights include

• Catch some Arctic King Crab and sit with others to enjoy the feast afterwards by the fire
• Stay in two unique Northern hotels, Aurora Village and the Gamme Cabins or a snow room in Kirkenes

Please note that all our itineraries, inclusions, dates and prices displayed on this website may change at any time. If you book an itinerary today and have this confirmed it will be the itinerary that is delivered to you. However, the online itinerary on our website may change in the meantime.

As a Certified B Corporation, 50 Degrees North has designed this tour using handpicked local hoteliers and suppliers who share our ethos of delivering services and activities of high social and environmental standards.

The CO2-e per person per day of all tours is carefully measured following each season. We fully offset all emissions of our tours on your behalf, and we constantly look at ways to reduce emissions where possible.

Transportation

• Bus transfers between Kirkenes and Ivalo
• All hotel accommodation in shared double/twin room with private facilities, single supplement available
• 3 nights in an Aurora Glass Cabin, breakfast and dinner included
• Kirkenes Stay: Gamme cabins or a snow room option incl. dinner
• Daily breakfast
• Included Activities: Arctic King Crab Safari, Husky safari (2 hrs), Snow mobile safari, Reindeer sleigh ride, feeding and photographing and Aurora Hunting by car
• Outdoor clothing for winter activities/safaris (winter boots, balaclavas, woollen socks, mittens, overalls, tube scarf) at the Aurora Cabins
• Sparkling piccolo bottle, water bottle, tea, coffee and sweets as complimentary arrival treats in your room at Aurora Cabins
• Toboggans, sleds, sliders, ice-skates, cross-country skis, kick-sledges and outdoor games are available complimentary at the Aurora Glass Cabin.
• 24-hour emergency service
• Taxes and service fees

Not Included

Flights, meals other than specified, winter clothing (thermal overall & boots) for the entire stay, items of personal nature, beverages, additional activities such as icefishing, horse riding or overnight safaris .

Please note that additional nights can be added either in Kirkenes or Ivalo.

If you would prefer a private transfer between Kirkenes and Ivalo, we can do this for an additional cost.

A Norwegian coastal cruise between Kirkenes and Tromsø can be added where possible.

Day 1 - Arrive into Kirkenes port, transfer to the Snowhotel with a Arctic King Crab Safari

Arrive in Kirkenes and transfer to the snow hotel. Today you will join an Arctic King Crab Safari - a very popular highlight for our travellers north.

The Arctic King Crab is a sought after delicacy and you will learn how to catch, prepare and eat them. Your guide takes you out and you can lend a hand in sawing through the ice before your guide attempts to land you a few of these massive crustaceans. Enjoy the day's catch for lunch seated by a cosy fire in a small local farmhouse by the lake. You will travel to the lake by snowmobile sleigh.

This evening, you can either stay in one of the warm Gamme cabins or sleep in one of the cold snow rooms at the Snowhotel.

Every room in Kirkenes Snowhotel is like a small treasure. The rooms are equipped with everything needed for a comfortable night in the somewhat extreme conditions. The pictures look like you are sleeping on ice, but that would be too cold and too hard for your back. The beds are framed with ice blocks and the beds have comfortable mattresses with thermal insulation on top. You sleep inside a sleeping bag graded for -35 degrees celcius. However, snow is a very good insulator, so even when it's -35 degrees outside, the Snowhotel remains a stable -4 degrees.

Upon entering the gates of the Snowhotel, you will receive a welcome drink at the snowbar, made from berries collected from surrounding hills. It will then be time to make the ‘coolest’ hotel check-in around!

Accommodation

Day 2 - Transfer to Aurora Village Resort and settle into your Aurora Glass Cabin

Transfer by shuttle bus door to door from Kirkenes to Ivalo (3.4 - 4 hrs). Check in to your Aurora Glass Cabin where you will be spending the next two nights!

Dinner at the hotel then get ready for your night under the stars - and hopefully the Northern Lights.

Finnish Aurora Glass Cabins provides 'one-of-a kind' opportunities to admire the Northern Lights and millions of stars in the crystal clear sky while enjoying a comfortable room temperature. Built with a massive special thermal glass window facing sky wards, the temperature inside the cabin always stays at a normal level. It also prevents the glass from not getting white frosted, hence keeping the view clear even when the temperature outside drops to under -30°C.

Day 3 - Husky Safari and then Aurora Hunting by car in the evening

After breakfast, get ready for today's husky safari - an unforgettable journey through breathtaking winter scenery.

On arrival to the husky farm we will provide you with a warm outer thermal suit, gloves and hat and then we will present your very own husky team. You will be given a lesson on how to drive the sledge and how to observe important hand signals given by your leader.

Each team consists of about six dogs, you, the driver, and your passenger, who is comfortably seated in the wooden sledge. The driver and the passenger can change places during the safari.

In the evening, join a Northern Lights search. After some research on the weather forecast, your guides will take a car and drive it to places where the sky is most clear and the probability of seeing the Northern Lights is highest. Your experienced guide, a professional Aurora Hunter has some interesting stories to tell as you drink hot drinks and snacks along the way.

Day 4 - Snowmobile adventure, then enjoy reindeer sleigh ride, feeding and photographing

Rise and shine - get ready for adventures after breakfast. Driving through the arctic winter forests across the frozen river while admiring the beauty of the Lappish nature your guide leads your way on an exciting snowmobile safari. Keep your camera with you! There are a couple of stops for taking amazing photos and chatting with your guide about life in Lapland.

This afternoon, you will get up close to the reindeer. You get a bag of lichen to feed the reindeer living at Aurora Village. Reindeer love lichen! They come close and with a little patience, they will eat from your hand. This is a good time to take close-up photos with reindeer too.

Meet your guide at the Aurora Village reception who will take you on a short walk to the Reindeer park. Your reindeer sleigh is awaiting and will take you on a peaceful winter adventure in a traditional ‘raito’ form where the reindeer walk one after another each pulling a sleigh.Sit back and enjoy the sleigh ride through the snowy forest.

Day 5 - Depart to Ivalo airport for your flight onwards

Breakfast at hotel. Transfer to Ivalo airport.

Price per person, twin share. Please note: the two different accommodation options available in Kirkenes (either the Snowroom or Gamme Cabins) vary slightly in price.

Important Information

Please note that this tour can also be run in reserve, starting in Ivalo.

SUSTAINABLE TRAVEL:

Your glass igloo hosts in Ivalo were the first accommodation in Northern Lapland to receive the Green Key award, the leading standard for excellence in the field of environmental responsibility and sustainable operation within the tourism industry. This prestigious eco-label represents a commitment by businesses that their premises adhere to the strict criteria set by the Foundation for Environmental Education. Some examples of how they carry this out include offering recycling facilities in all cabins and no longer offering plastic bottles in accommodations, along with protecting the diversity of the surrounding nature, i.e., bird house and insect hotels. Hiking, biking, and skiing tracks are direct from the hotel and as such they encourage low carbon activities such as snowshoeing and toboggans.

Kirkenes Winter Experience

5 days - Snowhotel stay easily combined with Norwegian Coastal voyage

Aurora Highlights Reverse Independent

5 days - Aurora Glass Cabin | Snow Hotel | Northern Lights - Ivalo to Kirkenes

Lapland Highlights Escorted

11 days - Escorted small group - visiting Norway, Sweden and Finland | ICEHOTEL & Glass Igloos

• 2025 Dates Now Available - 12 travellers only

Interactive Tour Map

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Travel Safe

Travel insurance and safety.

Travel insurance is compulsory for all tours with 50 Degrees North. The safety of our travellers, staff and operators is a major priority of 50 Degrees North. With an operational office in Norway, 50 Degrees North has access to an up-to-the-minute flow of information regarding the countries we work in. We are also in regular contact with the various operators we use. Their in-depth knowledge and understanding of their various areas is vital.

Practical information about Scandinavian Hotels

• Hotel rooms in Scandinavia are normally furnished with twin beds, which can be moved together to form a double bed or placed separately. Please note that single rooms are generally smaller than doubles, and are often equipped with a shower instead of a bath. Purpose-built triple or family rooms are likewise unusual in Scandinavian hotels. Whilst it is possible for 3 persons to share a room, this will normally be a double room with an extra bed, with correspondingly less space to move about in.
• It is also unusual to have a porter at hotels to carry your luggage.
• There is free wi-fi in many hotels in Scandinavia.
• Unexpectedly, all forms of Scandinavian accommodation rarely provide tea and coffee facilities in their rooms. If you are lucky, a kettle will be supplied but nothing else. Please ask at reception for some provisions when you arrive or just carry a small selection from home.
• Please also note that in Scandinavia - in particular, during winter - the included lunch will often be a hearty warm soup with bread.
• More remote hotels in Lapland will offer dinner at an additional cost. In some spots, there will be limited choices else where. Generally, you get a very nice home-cooked Scandinavian dinner. However, you may sometimes find only one or two choices only for your main course.
• In Scandinavia, it is normal for washing and laundry facilities to be in the basement. If you are staying in apartment type accommodation, check downstairs or ask for assistance.

Practical budgeting information before your departure to Norway

Practical budgeting information before your departure to norway:, budget surprises:.

Norway has a few items that typically surprise travellers when visiting Norway for the first time. Alcohol and luxury items are heavily taxed and therefore prices are higher than you would expect. On the other hand, necessities such as bread and milk, are taxed low and therefore are great value.

Alcohol import allowance into Norway:

We recommend that you bring all the alcohol you’re allowed to bring into the country when you arrive. There are many lovely parks and balconies where you can enjoy your duty free. However, be sure not to bring more than you’re allowed!

As of May 2014, the allowances according to Visit Norway are:

Alcoholic beverages: Minimum age: 18/ 20*

1 litre of beverages with more than 22% up to and including 60% alcohol per volume as well as 1½ litre with more than 2.5% up to and including 22% alcohol per volume or three litres with more than 2.5% up to and including 22% alcohol per volume and 2 litres of beer with more than 2.5 % or other beverages with more than 2.5% up to and including 4.7% alcohol per volume. This means that you may for example bring with you five litres of beer provided you do not have any other alcoholic beverages with you.

*For importing alcoholic beverages with more than 22% alcohol per volume the minimum age is 20.

It’s illegal to bring extra alcohol into Norway and can end up costing you. Another thing you should bring and not buy in Norway is razor blades. Good razor blades in Norway are expensive.

Practical Information for travelling and packing for Scandinavian Winter

Recommended scandinavian winter tour packing list:.

• Warm wind and water proof jacket and trousers large enough to fit thick woollen jumper/clothing underneath
• Rain trousers – waterproof and breathable material
• Warm windproof cap/hat
• Warm gloves or mittens. Mittens where all fingers except the thumb are together are often warmer than gloves.
• Windproof gloves or mittens, which you can pull over the warm gloves
• 2 pairs of long woollen underwear (Merino wool in a few different thicknesses is perfect)
• 1-2 warm woollen jumper(s), or one jumper and a warm fleece
• Woollen or fleece trousers
• 2-3 pairs of warm woollen socks
• Warm & sturdy footwear with good grip
• Clothes for indoors, i.e. a shirt, T-shirts and jeans or cotton trousers
• Back pack for day trips (approx. 30 litre)
• Light footwear/trainers (mainly for indoors)
• Sun screen & Lip salve (the sun reflects off the snow and the air is dry)
• Hand warmers
• Nordic Grip anti-slip soles for walking on ice
• Personal medication
• Water bottle - thermo, or include a cover to keep warm (or you can stick it into a warm sock)
• Travel documents (including insurance)
• Note book and pencil
• Camera, memory cards and charger
• Chargers for other gadgets
• Extra batteries for your cameras as they are used fast in cold conditions.

General information about staying at the Kirkenes Snowhotel

Practical information about the kirkenes snowhotel., how is the snowhotel built.

First the Kirkenes Snowhotel engineers produce a lot of snow with water, cold air and snow-machines. Then they inflate a large balloon and cover this with snow. When this balloon is totally compacted with 2 metres of snow, they then deflate the balloon and remove it, leaving a circular room. For the corridors, they construct wooden frames and also cover them in snow before removing them.

When is the Snowhotel open?

Kirkenes Showhotel opens each year around 20 December and closes on the 20 April.

How cold is it inside the Snowhotel?

The temperature inside is a constant minus 4 degrees Celsius.

What do you sleep on inside the Snowhotel?

There are 20 bedrooms with normal mattresses. On top of the mattress is an extra thermal insulation layer. You are also provided a sleeping bag made for extreme expeditions, rated for minus 30 degrees celsius. Most guests however, find that it can get too hot inside the sleeping bag.

In the marketing pictures, it looks like the beds are made of ice! However, they have cleverly placed ice-blocks around the beds to create the illusion of an ice-bed! Sleeping directly on ice would be a bit drastic and not very comfortable.

How is the lighting in the rooms?

Every room is decorated differently which is why there  is also  different lighting used to create a different atmosphere. The lights are LED which gives off very little heat. For security reasons the lights are not switched off. We advise using eye covers to sleep if a small amount of light bothers you.

Do you have bathrooms and showers?

There have nice bathrooms, showers and a sauna in the building next to the Snowhotel. So you have to leave your sleeping bag for a few minutes. Brrr....

Who usually books a night at the Snowhotel?

It is usually couples. Average age is around 45, however their oldest guest has been 92 years old! Each year, the Kirkenes Snowhotel sees marriage proposals being made and of course, in such a beautiful place,  weddings for many happy couples take place.

Is the Snowhotel safe?

Yes. The Snowhotel is constructed to the calculations and standards made by a Finnish professor of snow building. The Snowhotel is still standing a month after they close for the season, even with the warmer weather!

Who should not sleep at the Snowhotel?

People with claustrophobia have had trouble sleeping in the Snowhotel. There is also a minimum age of 7 years to stay in the snowhotel. There is a warm lobby available in case people may feel uncomfortable during their night’s stay.

Get the Hottest Deals First!

Iceland's Magical Northern Lights

About this tour.

Experience the “land of fire and ice” and chase the aurora borealis across an ethereal wonderland. In the dark of the night, search for the northern lights as you drift along on an evening starlit cruise. Travel the “Golden Circle,” home to renowned natural wonders, and spend time at Thingvellir National Park, gaze at Gullfoss waterfall, and see the explosive geothermal fields at Geysir. Explore Skógar Museum and see traditional turf-built homes. Walk on a black volcanic sand beach. See Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon filled with floating icebergs. Relax in the warm, mineral-rich water of the Blue Lagoon. Spend your days surrounded by natural wonders and your nights in search of the elusive dancing lights.

Your Tour Includes

• 3 Handpicked Accommodations

Included Highlights

• Northern Lights Cruise
• Search for the Northern Lights
• Golden Circle

Your Tour at a Glance

6 Breakfasts

Travel Style

Best time for travel.

Activity Level

• Level This Tour

For specific details about this tour's activity level and other info to know before you book your trip, click here.

Extension Style

Best time for travel iceland's magical northern lights.

While just about any month is great to visit Iceland, there are a few prime times of the year for the Iceland’s Magical Northern Lights tour. Here are some recommendations from our destination experts.

Winter: If snowy landscapes and the northern lights are what you’re after, then winter is the prime season to visit Iceland. Sure, it's cold and dark, and winter storms and road closures may be common, but with welcoming celebrations and festivities, and cozy coffeehouses, t's easy to warm up to Icelandic hospitality.

Spring: In spring, you can expect more hours of sunlight and thawing snow and ice, allowing you to explore the beautiful landscapes. In less-crowded March, you can still catch some of the winter activities, or even glimpse the northern lights.

Fall: Fall is a great time to see the northern lights in Iceland. September days can be bright and sunny, but the evening sky is dark enough for a beautiful aurora display. The temperature is slightly colder, but winter has yet to settle in, so the only snow you'll see is at the tops of the mountains in the distance. Iceland’s fall foliage puts on its own show, whether you’re walking in Reykjavik or hiking in the countryside.

Travel Styles

Highlights and inclusions.

Must-See Inclusions:

• Search for nature's dazzling display on a northern lights cruise in Reykjavík.
• Venture out into the countryside outside of Vík for 3 nights in search of more aurora borealis sightings.
• See Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon, filled with floating icebergs.

Relax in the warm, mineral-rich water of the Blue Lagoon.

Cultural Experiences:

Experience the energy at the geothermal fields of Geysir.

• Explore Skógar Museum, covering all aspects of Icelandic life.

Learn about the volcanic nature of the island of Iceland during a visit to the Lava Exhibition Center.

Straddle two continents while exploring Thingvellir’s rugged rift valley.

Culinary Inclusions:

Savor gourmet Icelandic cuisine at a popular local restaurant.

• Thingvellir National Park
• Lava Exhibition Center
• Seljalandsfoss
• Skógar Museum
• Skaftafell National Park
• Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon
• Sólheimajökull Glacier
• Blue Lagoon

Book with Confidence

* With Insurance Purchased

• *No Hassle Refunds
• Traveling Well Safety
• No booking fee, *no change fees
• Top Rated Travel Protection

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Getting Prepared

Know before you go, travel tips, enhance your tour.

Pre and Post Night Stay

Unique Experience

Cultural Experiences

Enhance Your Trip

• Tour Extensions

Hotel-Hotel Borg

Hotel-Sand Hotel

Search for nature's dazzling display on a northern lights cruise in Reykjavík.

Venture out into the countryside outside of Vík for 3 nights in search of more aurora borealis sightings.

See Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon, filled with floating icebergs.

Explore Skógar Museum, covering all aspects of Icelandic life.

Accommodations

Arrive earlier.

Pre Night: Hotel Borg From $240 per night

Centerhotel Plaza

Hotel dyrholaey, stay longer.

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Iceland Bíldshöfði 20 110 Reykjavík +354 578 20 80 View Map

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Northern Lights Tour Packages

Venture to the northern hemisphere to hunt for the aurora borealis and see this breathtaking natural phenomenon first hand. Your northern lights tour package with Nordic Visitor comes with accommodation, activities and transport included.

Witness the aurora borealis dancing above you and explore jaw-dropping landscapes in the Land of Fire and Ice.

Why choose northern lights tours in Iceland?

• Chase the lights on guided excursions from Reykjavík
• Stay at remote lodges with dark skies for aurora viewing
• Discover natural wonders like glaciers and ice caves
• Bathe in hot springs surrounded by wintry scenery

Golden Circle Classic - Winter

Golden circle, blue lagoon & northern lights, northern lights circle tour, iceland's famous ring road.

Winter Highlights & Northern Lights

Ice cave & glacier lagoon.

Hunt for the aurora borealis in Norway and admire the dramatic mountains, coastline and islands of the north.

Why go aurora-hunting in Norway?

• Marvel at the lights on an aurora coastal cruise
• Embark on a dog sledding northern lights safari
• Enjoy guided aurora excursions from Tromsø
• Stay at the extraordinary Kirkenes Snow Hotel

Northern Lights by Train and Cruise

Tromsø, flåm & the fjords, best of northern norway classic - 71° north cape, northern lights & cruise, northern lights norway classic.

Experience snowy scenery, Sami culture and winter activities in Finnish or Swedish Lapland on a northern lights adventure.

Why chase the northern lights in Lapland?

• Enjoy an enchanting aurora tour by snowmobile
• Gaze up at the northern lights from a cosy glass igloo
• Stay in a room made of ice at the legendary ICEHOTEL
• Witness the aurora dancing above Abisko National Park

Best of Lapland - Guaranteed Departure

December 18, 2024, best of rovaniemi - classic, santa claus village & dog sledding, lapland adventure - aurora sky station & icehotel.

Journey to a remote land and seek out the northern lights in Svalbard, an Arctic archipelago at the edge of the world.

Why look for the northern lights in Svalbard?

• Experience the mesmerising light of the polar night
• Visit the world’s northernmost town, Longyearbyen
• Go on thrilling dog sledding and snowmobiling tours
• See polar bears and seals in the wild

Best of Svalbard Winter - Express

Best of svalbard winter - classic, need any help so far get in touch with us.

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About Your Northern Lights Vacation

Discover the magic of the aurora borealis* on an unforgettable northern lights tour. Explore beautiful destinations in the Nordics on an itinerary that local travel experts have meticulously organised for you.

When you book a northern lights tour package with Nordic Visitor, you get:

• An authentic travel experience planned by an established and trusted agency • A dedicated travel consultant to organise your tour • All relevant bookings for your chosen package • A detailed online personal itinerary • Handpicked accommodation for a relaxing stay • 24/7 emergency phone support for peace of mind

Nordic Visitor has made it easy to start planning your winter tour. Simply follow these steps:

1. Pick your favourite Nordic Visitor tour 2. Confirm your package 3. Check your confirmation email 4. Book your flights 5. Get ready for your trip

*Please note, the northern lights are a natural occurrence and sightings cannot be guaranteed.

Why choose Nordic Visitor

Book With Confidence

Secure your trip your way with Nordic Visitor. Book a tour with as little as 10% deposit. With a 20% deposit or more, you will receive our Cancellation Protection free of charge. You can also pay the full price right away to guarantee today’s exchange rate. Terms & conditions apply.

Trusted local travel experts

Established in 2002, Nordic Visitor is a highly rated tour agency in Northern Europe. Our travel experts create authentic journeys filled with the best activities and destinations. They are locally based and add their in-depth knowledge to all northern lights itineraries.

Great reviews

Nordic Visitor is dedicated to the best service quality, and this is reflected year after year when Tripadvisor awards us with their Certificate of Excellence. We also take great pride in our customer feedback: 97% of our travellers say they would recommend us to friends and family.

Stress-free experience

Our travel consultants will plan and book your trip on your behalf. You’ll receive a personalised itinerary with your accommodation and activities all arranged for you. That way you can leave all the practicalities to someone else, while you relax and look forward to your northern lights adventure.

Flexible tour options

The Nordic Visitor travel team has designed our northern lights packages to include the very best routes and experiences. However, if you’d like to add extra nights, attractions or destinations, your personal travel consultant will happily tailor your northern lights package.

You are in good hands

Should you encounter any unexpected weather or events during your tour, don’t worry. Nordic Visitor will be there for you throughout your trip. We will take care of reworking your itinerary while keeping you safe and informed. You’ll also have access to our 24/7 emergency helpline for peace of mind.

Full financial protection

With Nordic Visitor, you have peace of mind knowing your tour arrangements with us are 100% financially protected. Your payments are safeguarded as we comply with European Union laws on Package Travel regulations. This guarantees you a refund in the unlikely event of insolvency.

NORTHERN LIGHTS TOUR REVIEWS

Here’s what our wonderful customers liked about their northern lights experiences.

Larus made the whole experience of organising the holiday very enjoyable.  We are not seasoned travellers but... read more

Larus made the whole experience of organising the holiday very enjoyable.  We are not seasoned travellers but this experience has given me no doubt in using Nordic Visitor again to book a holiday in the future to another Nordic destination.

Kim Singapore

Overall an amazing experience, accommodation were excellent, transfers and check-in were smooth. Will certainly use... read more

Overall an amazing experience, accommodation were excellent, transfers and check-in were smooth. Will certainly use Nordic Visitor again for future vacations.

Northern Lights Vacation Highlights

Picture yourself in a stunning winter landscape in the northern hemisphere. You’re wrapped up warm and the world’s greatest light show is about to begin. Opt for a Nordic Visitor northern lights tour, and you could…

• Take a guided tour from Reykjavík to hunt for the northern lights in Iceland
• Explore ice caves on a guided glacier hike in Vatnajökull , home to Europe’s largest glacier
• Venture to the remote Westfjords to chase the aurora and try snowshoeing
• Go dog sledding and snowmobiling in Tromsø , Norway, or Longyearbyen , Svalbard
• Discover charming fishing villages, mountains and marine wildlife in the Lofoten Islands
• Sample Norwegian delicacies in Kirkenes , such as red king crab, Arctic char and cloudberries
• Join an unforgettable snowmobiling , dog sledding or snowshoeing aurora safari in Lapland
• Visit the Aurora Sky Station in Abisko National Park for dinner with a view of the northern lights
• Stay in an ice hotel or glass igloo, such as the ICEHOTEL , SnowCastle or SnowHotel

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT NORTHERN LIGHTS TOURS

For tips on viewing the northern lights, read on. We’ve answered the most commonly asked questions about Nordic aurora borealis tours here to help you make your dream trip a reality.

Alternatively, find out how to make a booking , have a look at our FAQs , or learn about our Book With Confidence travel plan.

1. ARE THE NORDICS SAFE TO TRAVEL TO?

Yes, the Nordics are widely regarded as safe for visitors. Actually, the Nordic nations – Iceland, Sweden, Norway, Denmark and Finland – continually rank among the top 10 safest places in the world . This is because they have low crime rates, good standards of healthcare, and excellent road safety.

2. WHAT ARE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS?

The northern lights, or aurora borealis, are a natural phenomenon. You can see them illuminating the sky when charged particles from solar flares collide with atoms in the Earth’s atmosphere, near the North Pole. This collision creates varied shapes and colours that ripple, flash or glow in the sky.

3. WHAT MONTHS CAN YOU SEE THE AURORA BOREALIS?

You have the best chance of spotting the aurora borealis in the winter months – October to April. To make out the colours of the aurora, you need dark winter nights. In the summer, daylight hours are so long that you’ll find the sky is too bright to see the glowing lights.

As it is a natural occurrence, spotting the northern lights is not guaranteed. But you can increase your chances of witnessing them by visiting the Arctic Circle in winter.

4. WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS?

As you need a dark sky to distinguish the aurora, the best time to see the northern lights is at night. The peak hours tend to be between 11 PM and 2 AM, which is why your guided tour will likely depart after 9 PM.

You could also stay at a hotel with an aurora wake-up service. The staff will let you know if the lights come out late in the night, so you don’t have to stay up waiting for them!

The best time of year to see the northern lights is winter, between October and April. This is when Nordic nights are the longest and darkest, which means you have higher chances of catching sight of the aurora.

Winter is a great time to visit the Nordics for other reasons too. Check out these guides to the top winter activities you can enjoy:

Things to do in Norway in winter

Things to do in Iceland in winter

Things to do in Lapland in winter

5. WHERE IS THE BEST PLACE TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS?

You can see the aurora borealis at high northern latitudes, especially around the Arctic Circle, as this is where solar activity is strongest. That’s why the Nordic region is the best place to see the northern lights. Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Finland and Svalbard all lie within or near the Arctic Circle.

In fact, Iceland and the northern regions of Norway, Sweden and Finland are located within the “aurora zone”. Also known as the “northern lights belt”, this is a latitudinal band between 65-72°N where high auroral frequency and intensity occurs. Visit this zone for the best chance of seeing the aurora.

Learn more about where and when to see the northern lights with these expert guides:

Best times and places to see the northern lights in Europe

Best times and places to see the northern lights in Iceland

Best times and places to see the northern lights in Norway

6. WHERE CAN YOU SEE THE AURORA BOREALIS IN SCANDINAVIA?

Norway, Sweden and Denmark are the countries that make up Scandinavia. If you want to go to Scandinavia to hunt for the aurora borealis, your best bet is to visit the northern parts of this region – Swedish Lapland and Northern Norway. It is unlikely you’ll see the aurora in Denmark.

You can witness the northern lights in the neighbouring Nordic nations of Finland and Iceland too. Although these countries aren’t technically part of Scandinavia, they have many similarities and also happen to be great places to catch the aurora borealis!

Lapland – an area covering northern Sweden and Finland – is a fantastic destination for aurora chasing. You could head to Rovaniemi and Kemi in Finnish Lapland, or Abisko National Park near Kiruna in Swedish Lapland.

Or visit Northern Norway for your aurora borealis tour. Take your pick from Norwegian destinations such as Tromsø, Svalbard, Kirkenes, the Lofoten Islands and Nordkapp (North Cape).

Alternatively, go in search of the aurora borealis in Iceland. With its wide open skies and location near the Arctic Circle, you could see the lights from anywhere in the country. For your best chances though, head away from towns with street lights so you can spot the colours more easily.

In Scandinavia you could seek out the aurora borealis in the countryside or on the coast. Plus, not only can you enjoy northern lights tours, but also bucket list activities like dog sledding, snowmobiling, and staying in an ice hotel.

Discover more reasons to visit Norway, Sweden, Denmark and Finland on our ultimate Scandinavia guide .

7. HOW TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS?

To see the aurora borealis, you need to be in a northern country on a clear, dark night, away from artificial lights. Although the aurora don’t show up on demand, these top tips will give you the best chances of witnessing them.

Firstly, make sure you visit northern regions close to the Arctic Circle. Iceland, Northern Norway, Svalbard and Lapland are the best destinations to see the northern lights in Europe.

Secondly, time your aurora borealis tour for the European winter. The long, dark nights will help you spot the colours lighting up the sky.

Thirdly, avoid light pollution found in built-up areas. This means heading into the countryside where there is less artificial light compared to towns and cities. You could spend some days out in remote areas, or opt for guided evening tours from your city base instead.

Another thing you can do for northern light viewings is check the weather and aurora forecast . Although you can’t do this very far in advance, during your trip you’ll be able to find out if the evening will be clear of cloud or rain and if solar activity will be strong.

You’d also increase your chances of seeing the aurora borealis by taking a guided tour. A local expert would accompany you and take you to all the best spots, sharing their insider knowledge with you.

Read our article on how to see the northern lights for more viewing tips.

8. HOW LONG DO THE NORTHERN LIGHTS LAST?

When the aurora borealis are treating you to their glorious light show, you might find they glow for a few minutes. The lights can show up several times in one night, or last for a couple of hours in one go.

There is no rule as to how long the aurora borealis last, of course, as they are a natural occurrence. If you see them for yourself, no doubt you’ll cherish every second of their beautiful magic.

9. HOW DO YOU PHOTOGRAPH THE AURORA BOREALIS?

The northern lights can be tricky to capture on camera, but with some preparation and the right equipment you can do it. Here are some top tips for photographing the northern lights:

• Use an SLR camera with manual focus
• Bring a tripod as you’ll need to do a long exposure shot
• Get a remote shutter release so you don’t have to touch the camera at all
• Use a slow shutter speed of between 15 and 30 seconds

For more tips on photographing the aurora, see our northern lights travel guide .

10. WHAT SHOULD YOU WEAR TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS?

It can get rather cold in the Nordic winter, especially if there’s a cool wind. The last thing you want is to feel the chill while you hunt for the aurora borealis at night. That’s why it’s important you pack the right clothing before your trip.

Many northern lights tours will provide you with thermal suits to help you stay warm while you’re out chasing the aurora. It’s also recommended that you wear warm layers underneath.

Here is an essential packing list:

• Insulated jacket and trousers (windproof and waterproof)
• Thermal wool underlayers
• Warm hat, gloves and scarf
• Warm and sturdy boots

Get more packing advice by reading our experts’ tips and tricks on dressing for northern lights viewing .

11. CAN I CHOOSE THE ARRIVAL DATE?

Yes, you can select your chosen arrival date online when reserving your Nordic Visitor tour. For northern lights packages, the arrival dates are between October and April as this is the aurora viewing season.

12. CAN I EXTEND MY TOUR BY A DAY OR TWO?

Absolutely! If you’d like to spend more time in a particular destination, you can request this when booking your tour online. Your dedicated travel consultant will get in touch to confirm the extra days with you.

If you are taking a small group tour, you can add extra nights to the start or end of your trip. This is because the group tour itself is fixed as you will be exploring with fellow visitors on a fixed itinerary.

13. WHEN SHOULD I BOOK MY FLIGHT TICKETS?

You should book your flights once your Nordic Visitor package is confirmed. We recommend you check flights beforehand to find appropriate dates and prices, but only purchase them after your travel consultant has secured your northern lights tour.

Your Nordic Visitor consultant will send you a confirmation email with all the details you need to buy suitable flights.

14. WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR MY TRIP?

The weather is somewhat unpredictable in the Nordics, no matter the time of year you visit. In winter you should always come prepared for cold temperatures, which means bringing warm clothing. Here are the essential items that we recommend you pack for your trip:

• Warm jumpers or fleeces
• Waterproof and thermal jackets
• Gloves, scarves and hats
• Insulated, waterproof boots
• Thermal underlayers
• Waterproof trousers

For more detailed information on what to pack for your Nordic tour, read our travel guides for Iceland , Norway and Lapland .

Get in touch with us to start planning your trip or for more advice on how to see the aurora borealis. Our travel experts will be delighted to arrange an unforgettable northern lights tour for you.

Our main phone number is +354 578 20 80

How about a live chat with one of our local travel experts

Blog Articles

How to see the northern lights: viewing tips, best times & places to see the northern lights in europe, best times and places to see the northern lights in iceland, a little something about the northern lights.

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7 Day Northern Lights Tours & Trips

See the best 7 day northern lights tours. There are 68 adventures, in as many as 8 different destinations, including Iceland and Kenya.

7 Day northern lights tours with 1,988 reviews

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Aurora Borealis Adventure from Vancouver

Every employee we met from pick up @ the airport to drop off after our final trip to the Aurora Center was wonderful - Professional, pleasant, and friendly. Price was right! Hotel was OK. My one important critique was we got absolutely no info on the Aurora Borealis. I expected a video or “lecture” or some explanation about what we were looking for/seeing. (And, so so so very happy we saw them!!!) This was a trip specifically to see the northern lights and we heard nothing about them. I will (and have steady) recommend your tour to others but tell them to study up on the Aurora before they go. Thanks for asking!

Tailor-Made Private Norway Trip to Chase the Northern Lights

Jann was a fantastic guide / driver who was kind and considerate and wanted the best experience possible for his guests!! Jann was friendly and educated/answered all questions even with personal stories! We were very lucky and had a great viewing night and Jann had prepared us for the post that we would not see anything, would highly suggest the Jann experience to everyone!

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Yukon Northern Lights Holiday Premium Tour

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Tailor-Made Aurora Safari & Icehotel Trip

Best of Northern Norway Classic - 71° North Cape ( Private Tour)

Very exciting and perfectly organised Tour. Very friendly Team. We really recommend this tour!

Finland - Northern Light Adventure

4Night 5Days Golden Triangle Tour India

Hiking, Wildlife, Hot Springs and Northern Lights in the Yukon with Air from Vancouver

4-Day Ol Pejeta, Aberdare,& Solio Ranch Safari on 4x4 Jeep

5 day Guided tour | South Iceland Glacier Vistas

Magic of Finland & Arctic Adventure with Northern Lights & Glass Igloo

Northern Lights Escape

The tour itself was very nice. However, upon making payment we were not provided any detailed information on our trip. Example, I messaged twice about where our lodging was the first night so that we knew where to go once landing in Iceland. I received no reply. I called Tour Radar and they stated they had no information. I then had to call the tour company (Intrepid) to get the information. Intrepid said they supplied the information to Tour Radar who failed to post the information to our reservation. This was very stressful.

Iceland Northern Lights & Golden Circle

Best tour & guide ever! I truly appreciate all the support he gave during the tour. The weather was sunny with a clear sky, the itinerary included all the breathtaking landscapes. And our guide, Hodei, is exceptional. He is very knowledgeable, helpful and patient. Thanks to his guide, I had a wonderful time in Iceland and will definitely go back to explore more.

Iceland's Magical Northern Lights (2024)

5 Day - Snaefellsnes, South Coast and Northern Lights

Airport pick up and drop off will be much better appreciated if provided. Costs will not be a factor for us if offered.

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Best Trips to See the Northern Lights in 2024

Home | Northern Lights | Best Trips to See the Northern Lights in 2024

Norway, Canada, Iceland, Greenland…if you’re thinking about taking a  trip to see Northern Lights,  you’ve come to the right place. I hope that in 15 minutes, the time it takes to read this article on the  best Northern Lights tours of 2024, you will already have decided where you’re going to make your dreams come true.

But first, let me tell you why it is so important for us to help you to plan your  Northern Lights holidays.  Every year we lead an Iceland Photo Tour and a Lofoten Photo Tour , so many travelers who want to see the Aurora Borealis ask us if they can participate.

Best trips to see the Northern Lights in 2024

Our  photography tours  are aimed at photography lovers who want to learn  how to photograph the northern lights. If you sign up without being a photographer, it’s more than likely that you won’t enjoy the tour as much as you would with one of the  best Northern Lights holiday packages, such as the ones I will recommend below.

However, I’d be very happy to help you fulfill your dream by helping you choose a good Northern Lights vacation package. Therefore, in this article, we’ll tell you how to pick a  Northern Lights tour package in 2024.

How much does it cost to see the Northern Lights?

Trips to see the Northern Lights in Iceland

Trips to see the Northern Lights in Canada

Trips to see the Northern Lights in Norway

Trips to see the Northern Lights in Alaska

• Trips to see the Northern Lights in Finnish Lapland
• Trips to see the northern lights in Sweden
• Discounted Northern Lights travel deals

Taking into account price, dates, visited attractions, and quality of the tour guides, these are  the best Northern Lights vacations in 2024:

• Land of the Northern Lights: Iceland in 5 days (affordable Northern Lights tour package)
• Northern Lights Exploration: 8-day Northern Lights trip in Iceland
• Finnish Lapland in Winter:   8-day Northern Lights vacation in Finland
• Best Value Aurora Viewing: 4-day Northern Lights holidays in Whitehorse (Canada)
• Northern Lights at Aurora Village: 4-day Northern Lights tour package in Yellowknife (Canada)
• Winter in the Rockies & Northern Lights: Canadian Rocky Mountains and Yellowknife in 10 days
• Norway Winter & Northern Lights: 7-day Northern Lights trip to Tromso and Lofoten Islands
• Northern Lights & wildlife in Swedish Lapland: Swedish Lapland tour in 6 day s

The  cost of seeing the Northern Lights  varies depending on where you live, the chosen destination, dates, if you want to travel on your own or book a Northern Lights tour, the duration of the trip, etc.

Don’t worry, though. There are  affordable trips to see the Northern Lights.  Now we’ll tell you  how much a Northern Lights vacation package costs  and how much you would spend if you traveled on your own.

Cheap flights to see the northern lights

The best way to find cheap flights to see the Northern Lights is through Kiwi.com , between 3 and 5 months before your trip.

This is the approximate cost for a round trip ticket to some Northern Lights destinations:

Northern Lights vacation packages

You may think that taking  a Northern Lights trip on your own is cheaper  than booking a tour. However, there are very  affordable Northern Lights holiday packages.

Although we will go into detail later,  a Northern Lights tour in Iceland costs around $153 a day , including all accommodations, tour guides, and transportation. Of course, it would be much more expensive to plan it on your own.

Best Northern Lights vacation packages

In Canada, for example, there are Northern Lights vacations  that are even cheaper, at a price of $130 per day.  However, there are also some luxury Northern Lights tour packages, which include more activities, for $500 a day.

It all depends on what type of trip to see the Northern Lights you want to take.

If you don’t want to book a Northern Lights vacation package, remember to take into account the following expenses:

Price of Northern Lights hotels

In case you decide to take a Northern Lights trip on your own, you should consider the price of accommodation. Although you can choose to stay in one of the  best Northern Lights hotels in the world,  in most Northern Lights destinations you also find cheap options.

• Price for accommodation in Iceland:  $ 150 on average ( Northern Lights hotels in Iceland )
• Price for accommodation in Norway:  $ 200 on average ( Northern Lights hotels in Norway )
• Price for accommodation in Canada:  $ 250 on average ( Northern Lights hotels in Canada )
• Price for accommodation in Alaska:  $ 200 on average ( Northern Lights hotels in Alaska )
• Price for accommodation in Finland:  $ 100 on average ( Northern Lights hotels in Finland )
• Price for accommodation in Sweden: $ 70 on average ( Northern Lights hotels in Sweden )

Self-drive Northern Lights trip (by rental car)

Also, if you decide to travel by yourself, you should consider the price of transportation. The cheapest way will always be a rental car. We practically always book through  Rentalcars , since they have many discounts.

Northern Lights one-night tours

In case you don’t want to risk missing out on the show, it is recommended to hire a  one-day tour to see the northern lights.  The tour guides of these tours know perfectly  where to see northern lights, and with them the chances of seeing the aurroa are quite high.

The prices of the  Northern Lights tours in Reykjavik (Iceland)  start at $ 50 per person, while in other places, they can be much more expensive. For example, the Northern Lights tours in Tromso (Norway) start at $ 80.

Check our guide on how to plan cheap trips. Below are our recommendations for the best Northern Lights holiday packages by destination .

Iceland is the most popular place to take a Northern Lights trip this year. If you don’t have much time or want to travel on a budget, the Land of the Northern Lights is your best bet. In just five days, you’ll see all the Iceland must-sees: Blue Lagoon, half of the South Coast, the Golden Circle, and Reykjavik.

However, if you have more time for your Northern Lights vacation in Iceland, I recommend Northern Lights Exploration where, iin addition to the above, you’ll tour the easternmost area of ​​the South Coast, visiting places as impressive as the Jokulsarlon ice lagoon, Diamond Beach, and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. You also have the option to visit an ice cave.

Best time in 2021 for a Northern Lights tour in Iceland

The  5-day Northern Lights trip to Iceland  departs every Tuesday and Thursday during the winter months of 2021 (from September to April). You can check if there is availability for your dates  here.

The  8-day Northern Lights tours in Iceland leaves every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Sunday from September to April. You can check if there are free spots for your dates  here.

How much does a trip to see Northern Lights in Iceland cost?

The Land of the Northern Lights costs $ 1045, although it is currently discounted, so you can book for $ 768. This is $ 153 per day. If you take a trip to see the Northern Lights on your own, you will spend much more on accommodation and transportation.

On the other hand, the Northern Lights Exploration tour costs $ 1916 ( $ 240 per day). It may seem to you that it is much more expensive than the previous one, but keep in mind that the selected accommodations are superior and that it includes a cruise on the Breiðafjörður fjord and a farewell dinner. If you have enough time, I assure you that it is very worthwhile to make the itinerary of this Northern Lights trip.

Northern Lights Tours in Iceland

In case you are not interested in a guided tour, I recommend you read our guide to know when and where to see Northern Lights in Iceland  on your own. We have also written a guide on the best places to visit in Iceland.

Also, if you would like to have the help of a guide to increase your chances of seeing the aurora, you can always use an affordable one-day tour to see the northern lights . Most of them depart from Reykjavik.

NORTHERN LIGHTS TOURS IN REYKJAVIK

Although you can read here our opinion on the best Northern Lights tours in Reykjavik, summing up, the ones we recommend:

• Northern Lights bus tour
• Small-group Northern Lights tour
• Northern Lights boat tour

Canada is one of the most magical places to see the Northern Lights in the world.

The Best Value Aurora Viewing tour is the cheapest tour to see the Northern Lights  and takes place in Whitehorse. For 4 days, you’ll visit the capital city of the Yukon on your own and then meet your guide in the afternoon to hunt the Northern Lights. You’ll go to the AuroraCentre, a camp where you can wait, away from light pollution and sheltered by the heat of a fire, for the Northern Lights to appear.

Another option is to take a Northern Lights holiday package in Yellowknife. Northern Lights at Aurora Village , which also lasts 4 days, is the best option. Your guide will accompany you on different winter activities during the day, and at night, you’ll chase the Northern Lights from the Aurora Village, where you can shelter in a teepee or next to a bonfire.

Best winter Northern Light Tours

However, Winter in the Rockies & Northern Lights is my favorite Northern Lights vacation in Canada. It is a combo of a Northern Lights tour in Yellowstone and the Canadian Rocky Mountains. The tour is quite like our 15-day Canadian Rockies trip , except that we had the tremendous fortune of seeing the Northern Lights in the Rockies. Realistically, you are much more likely to see them if you head to Yellowknife after your Rockies adventure.

Best time in 2021 for a Northern Lights tour in Canada

The Best Value Aurora Viewing tour run every day of the year except for April, May, June, and July. However, if you want to have a better chance of seeing the northern lights, I advise you not to book the tour in August or September.

The Northern Lights at Aurora Village tour currently only is available every day of December 2021, so if you are interested in this tour, I recommend you book well in advance.

The Winter in the Rockies & Northern Lights departs once a month in January, February, and March. The spots in January and February sold out immediately. If there is any place left for March, I recommend you book it, or in case you are planning your vacation well in advance, book it for 2022. This is possibly the most comprehensive aurora borealis trip of all since, in addition to enjoying the northern lights, we can admire the incredible beauty of winter landscapes in the Canadian Rocky Mountains.

How much does a trip to see Northern Lights in Canada cost?

In Canada, we have Northern Lights tours of all prices. The Best Value Aurora Viewing tour includes hotels, transportation, and auroras guide, for a price of $ 525 ($ 131 per day). However, the Northern Lights at Aurora Village tour also includes winter activities and daytime guidance for $ 1194 ($ 300 per day).

The Winter in the Rockies & Northern Lights may seem more expensive, at a cost of $ 5608 ($ 560 per day), but keep in mind that the Rocky Mountains hotels are much more expensive. In addition, this hotel includes a resort and premium activities, such as a helicopter excursion for snowshoeing. Without a doubt, it is the best luxury Northern Lights holidays in Canada.

Northern Lights Tours in Canada

In case you prefer to  see the Northern Lights in Canada  on your own, you can also hire the following night tours to enjoy this phenomenon.

Northern Lights tours in Whitehorse

Whitehorse is the only place in Canada that offers one-night Northern Lights tours. The price of  this tour  is $ 100. In addition, they will teach you how to photograph the northern lights.

Norway is one of the  cheapest places to see the Northern Lights in Europe.  Moreover, as far as tourism is concerned, there are many options. You’ll find everything from hotels specialized in the observation of this phenomenon to multi-day holidays for touring the north of the country.

Virtually all tours depart from Tromso, the Arctic capital, and from there, either visit the Lofoten Islands, such as this 7-day Norway Winter & Northern Lights tour, or take you to Alta, epicenter of the Norwegian Lapland, where you’ll have a great opportunity to see the Aurora Borealis, as in this 5-day Capitals of Northern Lights   tour.

Best Northern Lights holidays in Norway

In my opinion, if, in addition to taking a tour to see the Northern Lights, you would like to fall in love with the landscapes of Norway, I recommend choosing the Lofoten Islands tour. We visit these islands every year during our Lofoten Photo Tour, and they have some of the most impressive landscapes I have ever shot in my life. If you choose that tour, here is a list of the most amazing places to see in the Lofoten Islands.

Best time in 2021 for a Northern Lights tour in Norway

The Norway Winter & Northern Lights starts every two Sundays from November to March. However, I recommend that you don’t take this tour in November, as historical data indicates that rainfall in Lofoten is more common that month, so you may have fewer opportunities to see the northern lights.

The Capitals of Northern Lights starts every Thursday from December to March. In this case, March would be the best month to take this Northern Lights Holiday Package.

How much does a trip to see Northern Lights in Norway cost?

The  price of the 7-day trip to see the northern lights in Tromso and the Lofoten Islands  varies according to the chosen date. On average, it costs $ 2,000 ($ 285 per day), although they often publish Northern Lights vacation package deals. You can check price and availability  here.

The  cost of the 5-day Northern Lights tour through Tromso and Alta is  $ 1269 ($ 253 per day). You can check availability  here.

Northern Lights Tours in Norway

In case you want to  see the Northern Lights in Norway  on your own, it is best to hire a one-night guided tour to make sure you go to one of the best locations to see the aurora depending on weather. Although most of the Northern Lights night tours run in Tromso, there is also some interesting option in the Lofoten Islands

NORTHERN LIGHTS TOURS IN TROMSO

We have tol about the  best Northern Lights tours in Tromso  in that article. However, if you want a quick list of the tours we recommend, check here:

• Northern Lights 7-Hour Tour
• Small group Northern Lights Hunt
• Auroras + Whales + Overnight Lavvo Stay

Northern Lights tours in Lofoten

The offer of Northern Lights tours in Lofoten is more limited. However, we can find some interesting Northern Lights in Svolvaer, like this one.

Although Alaska isn’t the only place in the United States where you can see this phenomenon, it is the best place to plan a  trip to see the Northern Lights . However, the options are somewhat scarcer than in the rest of the countries mentioned. The  only multi-day tour we found departs from Fairbanks. On it, you’ll spend five days chasing the Northern Lights in the  Borealis Basecamp  and partaking in winter activities, such as snowmobiling or sledding.

Alaska – Trips to see the Northern Lights in Alaska

Best time in 2021 for a Northern Lights tour in Alaska

This tour is available throughout the year except in May, June, and July. However, if you want to have a chance to see the auroras, I recommend you hire it from October to April, the best time to see Northern Lights in Alaska.

How much does a trip to see Northern Lights in Alaska cost?

The price of this Northern Lights holiday package in Alaska is $ 1123 ($ 225 per day).

Northern Lights Tours in Alaska

If you want to see the northern lights in Alaska, another very convenient option is to hire a one-day Northern Lights tour. The variety is wider. These are the best Northern Lights tours in Alaska:

• Northern Lights Tour in Healy
• Cheap Northern Lights Tour from Fairbanks
• Northern Lights and Arctic Circle Tour
• Chena Hot Springs and Northern Lights hot springs from Fairbanks

Trips to see the Northern Lights in Finland

Finland is one of the most popular destinations for Northern Lights packages and Christmas tours. Meeting Santa Claus, staying in an igloo, or  seeing the Northern Lights in Lapland  are the main attractions. If there’s a country where everything is about Northern Lights tourism, it’s got to be Finland. Here you can find some of the  best Northern Lights hotels in the world.

Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort – One of the best Northern Lights Hotels in the World

There are numerous guided Northern Lights multi-day tours in Finland, so here a complete list .

The Finnish Lapland in Winter tour is the cheapest 8-day vacation package. On this tour, you’ll travel by train from Helsinki to Rovaniemi to chase the Northern Lights. The four-day Finland Northern Lights tour is also a good option, where you will visit Harriniva in search of the Northern Lights.

Trips see the Northern Lights in Finland

If you want a more exclusive tour, where you’ll visit Oulu, Kemi, Rauna, Rovaniemi, Kemijarvi, Kuusamo, and Syöte in 8 days, I recommend the Northern Lights: A Lapland Winter tour.

Best time in 2021 for a Northern Lights tour in Finland

December, January, February, and March are the best months for a Northern Lights trip in Finland . However, if you travel with children and would like to visit Santa Claus in Rovaniemi, his hometown, I recommend you take it in December.

How much does a trip to see Northern Lights in Finland cost?

The Finnish Lapland in Winter tour cost $ 3120, although it currently has a discount ($ 312 per day). The Finland Northern Lights tour costs $ 2015, although it is also discounted ($ 419 per day).

If you take the luxury Northern Lights tour: A Lapland Winter , the price would be $ 5673, ( $ 709 per day).

Northern Lights Tours in Finland

In case you want to make the trip on your own and take a one-night tour to see northern lights, the best options are in Rovaniemi. These would be the most popular tours:

• Tour to see the northern lights in Rovaniemi
• Snowmobile tour to see Northern Lights in Rovaniemi

Trips to see northern lights in Sweden

Finally, if you have chosen Sweden as your Northern Lights destination, the Northern Lights & wildlife in Swedish Lapland tour, which lasts 6 days and leaves from Lulea, is your best option. With the Northern Lights and Wildlife holiday package, you’ll live an authentic adventure, camping in Sami tepees and photographing moose and wild reindeer found in this area of ​​Sweden.

Best time in 2021 for a Northern Lights tour in Sweden

Winter is the best time to see the Northern Lights in Sweden. The tour run in December, January, and February. Spots usually sell out quickly, so check here  if there are any available.

How much does a trip to see Northern Lights in Sweden cost?

The tour Northern Lights & Wildlife in Swedish Lapland costs $ 2406 ($ 401 per day).

Northern Lights Tours in Sweden

The best place to hire Northern Lights one-day tours is in Kiruna.  This  would be the best option.

Northern Lights travel deals

If you want to find affordable trips to see the Northern Lights,  visit the  TourRadar deals section. There, they post significant discounts, and you can select the country in which you are interested to see if there are any good deals.

If you’re looking for  cheap Northern Lights holidays,  please note that when traveling in a guided group, you won’t have to worry about paying for accommodation, rental car, etc. Sometimes, hiring a  Northern Lights vacation package  is cheaper than planning the trip on your own.  However, always compare the prices of all the Northern Lights tours to choose the best option for you.

Which is the best Northern Lights destination this year?

Have you already decided where to spend your next  Northern Lights holidays ? Remember: it’s very important to travel during the best time to see the Northern Lights. If not, you won’t see them, no matter which tour you hire.

Feel free to leave me a comment if you need help with anything. Nothing would make me happier than helping you fulfill your dream of seeing the Northern Lights.

Ascen Aynat

14 replies on “ Best Trips to See the Northern Lights in 2024 ”

Curious or an opinion on a trip in late October. We will have 4 full days and can either go to Tromso or Iceland. Lofoten looks amazing but I wonder if we will have enough time given the 8hr drive from Tromso. I know flying into Bodo could be an option but do you think it it would be just too much for too short of a time? I know Senja looks great as well btu I think our preference would be to go to Lofoten if we choose Norway. Thanks for any advice.

Hi Gregg, For a 4-day trip to see the Northern Lights, I recommend going to Iceland. It’s the best option for shorter trips. You need at least a couple of days for Senja and about 4 days on the Lofoten Islands, so it’s definitely worth booking a separate trip for Norway! Ascen

I am 81 and depend pn a wheelchair. Alaska would be of interest and travel by water preferable, but not written in stone. I would have a companion.

Hope you can get to see the Northern Lights in Alaska, it’s an amazing place to see the Aurora 😉

This information is super helpful. However, due to time constraints, we may only have 2 days max for the northern light experience in Sweden. Further more, we are visiting in end sep/early oct. We also realised that most Tour groups only start end oct onwards. Do you think we should drop the plan entirely or would you have any suggested companies we can approach?

Hi Katherine, This one-day tour from Kiruna is a great option, but it’s available starting in mid-October. If you can change your travel dates, it’s well worth it!

Thank you, found your article helpful. I am in Sweden on a short visit and was planning to visit a place to see the Northern Lights either this weekend or next. (I know its way too ambitious to think I will get to see), but given my short trip, don’t have much choice. That said, would you recommend a place that I should attempt to go to?

Where exactly in Sweden are you? The northern, the better when chasing the Northern Lights!

Hello, I am interested on going to the Best Value Aurora Viewing Tour, for me a and my son. I want to know how much is for the tour. We are coming from San Antonio, TX. Do you have military veterans discount. We want to go on spring break around 3/15. What city do we flight into. Is lodging provided? Please advise. Thank you

We have just selected the best Northern Lights trips for 2022 but we don’t run these tours. I recommend you to contact directly with the organizer of the tour that you like by clicking on the links on our article. Anyway, March is a great time to see the Northern Lights and I wish you luck for your Aurora Viewing Tour.

Very interesting; useful information. Planning stages, this helps.

Thanks Mike! Good luck chasing the Aurora on your trips!

This was super helpful thank you! I hope to get myself together to do this before my 40 th birthday in February

Thanks Bradley! hope you can fulfill your Northern Lights dream 😉

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8-Day Northern Lights Winter Self-Drive Tour of West and South Iceland with Ice Caving

Affordable 3 Hour Northern Lights Bus Tour with Transfer from Reykjavík

Northern Lights Super Jeep Tour with a Photographer Guide & Transfer from Reykjavik

Amazing 2 Hour Northern Lights Cruise with Transfer from Reykjavik Harbor

Northern Lights Bus Tour with Transfer from Reykjavik

Amazing 5-Day Northern Lights Winter Vacation Package in Iceland with Ice Caving & the Blue Lagoon

Magical 2 Hour Northern Lights Boat Cruise with Transfer from Reykjavik

3-Day Northern Lights Tour of Iceland’s Golden Circle & South Coast with Ice Caving & Glacier Hiking

Best 7-Day Northern Lights Self Drive Tour Through South Iceland to Jokulsarlon Ice Cave

2 Day Ice Cave Tour with South Coast Waterfalls & Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Breathtaking 6-Day Northern Lights Hunting Package of Iceland with Ice Caving

8-Day Guided Northern Lights Winter Tour of the Complete Ring Road of Iceland

Northern Lights & Golden Circle Tour with Audio Guide & Transfer from Reykjavik

Magical 3 Hour Northern Lights Tour with an Audio Guide in 10 Languages & Transfer from Reykjavik

Northern Lights Mystery

Small Group 6-Day Northern Lights Winter Tour of the Complete Ring Road of Iceland

7-Day Northern Lights Winter Vacation Package with Ice Caving

Northern Lights Tour With Photographer

Magical 4-Hour Aurora Museum and Northern Lights Minibus Tour from Reykjavik

2 Day Northern Lights & Ice Cave Tour with Glacier Hiking & Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Small Group 4-Day Northern Lights Winter Vacation Package with Golden Circle & South Coast

Serene 2-3 Hour Northern Lights Boat Tour from Reykjavik

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2-Day West Coast & Snaefellsnes Peninsula with Lava Caving & Northern Lights Tour

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Wonderful Aurora Hunting Tour Experience! Although the aurora was not very visible, it still made for a fantastic memory. The tour was initially set for three hours, but due to poor visibility that evening, the team didn't give up. They continued to search for the northern lights and managed to capture some faint camera lights after 2 AM. Despite running overtime and it being very late, they provided ample opportunity for those still energized to get off the bus and try their luck at spotting and photographing the lights. It was the last day of the aurora season, and on the way back, the guide explained that this time didn’t count as a successful sighting and offered a chance to join another tour within the next two years. I’m truly grateful for the team's dedication and effort. Thank you for making it a memorable experience!

Pyeseghl Aurelio

Great Golden Circle tour with a knowledgeable tour guide. The Northern Lights tour guide was very enthusiastic about the phenomenon and you could tell from the way he talked about it. Unfortunately, we only saw a small trail during our time there, which lasted roughly 4 hours. The lead guide was trying to see if we could chase another sighting on the way back to Reykjavik but we ended up heading straight back. The effort that the guides took into to ensure possible sightings was admirable and definitely a stark change from another tour that we went on the previous night. Whilst the offer of rebooking the tour was there, unfortunately we were leaving the next day so were unable to try again during the trip. However, the enthusiasm the guides experienced and the fact that they did try to go to another site to ensure a sighting is why next time I shall book with the same company (Grey Line Iceland) .

Phoebe Cheuk

The guide Romeo was friendly. He prepared hot chocolate and fire in cold weather. The places he chosen for seeing the northern lights are perfect. It is important to wear warm clothes and gloves because your feet and hands will be freezing outdoors at cold night !

Morgan W Hizer

Where to begin! This was absolutely the best trip of my life. I’ve been planning this trip since September of 2023. Guide to Iceland had so much helpful information about the country that assisted in knowing what to expect. If I had any questions they were quick in responding. I did encounter a couple hiccups which I feel was partially out of their control, however they were quick in fixing the situation. I unfortunately didn’t get to see the Northern Lights, nor was I able to do one thing on my journey the way they planned it and it being closed on the day they planned it on the itinerary. Just gives me a reason to come back, so I made peace with it. I’d recommend this and using them to assist in making your dream a reality.

What are the Northern Lights?

The northern lights, otherwise known as the Aurora Borealis, are phenomena that occur at high latitudes when solar particles ionise as they enter the earth's atmosphere, appearing in the night sky in the form of waving ribbons of colour. These ‘ribbons’ have captivated their viewers for centuries, bringing about defying awe and unspeakable mystery.

The northern lights are, in fact, occurring throughout the year, yet it is only during the dark winter nights that they become visible to the human eye. This is, naturally, what makes northern light hunting one of the most popular winter activities in Iceland. You can partake in numerous tours that take you to the best northern lights spotting locations, such as an affordable Northern Lights Bus Tour that takes you far away from the city's light-pollution, or a Northern Lights Boat Cruise that allows you to witness the auroras out on the open sea. Outside of Scandinavia, it is only possible to go northern light hunting in such places as Alaska, northern Canada and Siberia. 

Modern scientific understanding of the northern lights did not mature until the 1880's when researchers discovered their connection to solar activity. Further study, seventy years later, would deepen this revelation, with new breakthroughs made in the knowledge that electrons and protons travel to earth on a ‘solar wind’. Today, research is ongoing into the northern lights as we further our understanding of deep space and our connection to it.

The northern lights have long been known to the Scandinavian people, inspiring some of the greatest and longstanding tales to have ever come out of Norse Mythology.

One of the most prominent of these relates to Ragnarök, a great future battle that, as foretold, will see the world submerged in water, and a significant number of the Gods dead, including the likes of Odin, Thor and Loki. After the events of Ragnarök, it is said that the world will be born anew, strengthening the ancient themes of birth, death and rebirth.

To prepare for this battle, Odin, the Chieftain of Asgard, would summon his most prized warriors, the Valkyries, female battle-maidens who rode on horseback carrying spears and shields. Ancient stories would surmise that the northern lights were a reflection of this Valkyrian armour.

Another widely spoken about interpretation is that the aurora was the ‘Bifrost Bridge’, a rainbow walkway that led deceased warriors into the glorious, glowing halls of Valhalla.

To the Icelandic Vikings, the aurora was a phenomenon to be celebrated, a popular trend that has continued to this day with countless Northern Lights tours taking place across the land of Ice and Fire. Neighbouring Scandinavians, however, were less than trustful.

Many Norse people, such as the indigenous Finno-Ugric people, the Sámi, felt that the lights were to be feared. Believing these dancing green, red and yellow light waves to be the souls of the dead, the Sámi were careful to never show any sign of disrespect towards the lights, be that whistling beneath them, singing, talking or even waving them to them.

It is said, that those who fail to heed these warnings will be pulled up into the sky, forever trapped among these nocturnal spirits. Due to this slumbering myth, it is thought that some Sámi people, even today, will not go outside when the northern lights dance above.

It is perhaps the Finnish who have the most beautiful allegory for the auroras, believing them to be created by the arctic fox, an animal that just so happens to be Iceland’s only native mammal. The Finnish name for the aurora translates to “Fire Fox”, a direct reference to the ethereal fox that would dash so quickly across the night sky that his tail would brush against the mountains, thus causing a vast and colourful outburst of sparks.

Still, another interpretation of the Arctic fox story differs somewhat, and provides some justification on the part of an ancient people as to why the lights only appeared in winter; instead of sparks, the fox’ tail was thought to have kicked up snowflakes into the air which then caught the light of the moon.

When it comes down to the folklore of Iceland particularly, it was believed that the northern lights helped to soothe the pain of childbirth, though women who had yet to give birth were warned not to look at them directly, in fear that the child would be born cross-eyed.

During your visit in Iceland, you have the option of seeing the northern lights on your own. But should you want to view them from the best spots, far away from the light-pollution of human settlements, you would be well advised to take a northern lights tour, in which a knowledgeable guide tells you all there is to know about this fantastic phenomenon.

Frequently asked questions

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Unpredictable and awe-inspiringly beautiful, the Northern Lights are nature’s most dazzling display.

Our Northern Lights trips take you to some of the world’s best locations for witnessing this spectacular event. Whether it’s heading to Iceland’s remote Lake Myvatn, cruising among Greenland’s glaciers, watching the lights dance across the Canadian Rockies  or travelling by dogsled into Finland’s northern wilds, Northern Lights tours with Intrepid give you the best seats in the house for one of this galaxy’s most stunning natural performances.

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Where can you see the Northern Lights?

Northern lights travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travellers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travellers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

When is the best time to see the Northern Lights?

The Northern Lights are at their peak from late September to late March.

Where can I see the Northern Lights?

The best places to see the Northern Lights are all located in the “Auroral zone” – an area that stretches around the Northern Hemisphere at a latitude of about 66 to 69 degrees north – including parts of:

What causes the Northern Lights?

The Northern Lights are caused by electrically charged particles from the sun colliding with elements in our atmosphere (such as nitrogen and oxygen), creating brightly coloured dancing displays of light.

Am I guaranteed to see the Northern Lights?

While Northern Light displays can never be guaranteed, as they are a natural phenomenon, our local leaders do their best to ensure you get to see nature’s greatest spectacle.

Can the Northern Lights be predicted?

Yes, the Northern Lights can be predicted to some extent.

The activity level of the Northern Lights depends on many things (of which some are predictable and some are somewhat random), including sunspots, coronal holes, solar flares and geomagnetic activity.

If you’re not an astronomer, your best bet is to check the local Aurora forecast – a KP-index number of 3 or higher means you have a good chance of seeing the Lights.

Can I see the Northern Lights with the naked eye?

Yes, you can see the Northern Lights with the naked eye. Humans can most easily see the green and white of the lights at night. A camera, however, does not have the same limitations as the human eye, so the colours may appear brighter and more brilliant in photos.

Can I photograph the Northern Lights?

Of course! There is no magic recipe for capturing the Northern Lights. Still, you’ll want to set your camera on a tripod and ensure it has a manual mode functionality, so you can adjust the aperture and shutter speed to capture the spectacular display best.

Are Intrepid trips accessible for travellers with disabilities?

We are committed to making travel widely  accessible , regardless of ability or disability. We do our best to help you see the world, regardless of physical or mental limitations. 

We are always happy to talk to travellers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

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Experience the amazing northern lights in norway.

We offer a selection of Northern Lights tours & cruises and Christmas holidays & cruises. You can take a cruise on one of the authentic Hurtigruten ships or a sustainable cruise with Havila Voyages, experience dog sledding, snow mobile safari and stay overnight in an amazing ice hotel. You can celebrate a traditional Norwegian Christmas with Norwegian Christmas traditions and Christmas meals onboard a cruise ship. Read more:

Fjord Travel Norway is fully insured and a member of the Norwegian Tour Guarantee Fund (RGF). Travel agencies and wholesalers in Norway are required to be a member of this fund. In the unlikely event of insolvency the RGF will refund any advance payments you have made to our company for a holiday in Norway.

Norwegian destinations:

• Bergen Norway - the Gateway to the Fjords
• Alesund, the Art Noveau town
• Flam, the tiny Fjord village
• Oslo Norway, the Scandinavian Viking capital
• Tromso, the Arctic capital of Norway

Norwegian attractions:

• The unique Norwegian Fjords
• The Northern Lights (Aurora borealis) Norway
• The spectacular Lofoten Islands
• The scenic Geirangerfjord
• Ice hotels Norway - Kirkenes Snow Hotel

Thematic Norway Holidays:

• Norway Christmas Cruises
• Northern Lights Cruises
• Fjord Tours & Cruises
• Arctic Circle & Midnight Sun Tours
• Sognefjord & Glacier Excursion Tours

© Fjord Travel Norway

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Iceland Bíldshöfði 20 110 Reykjavík +354 578 20 80 View Map

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• Christmas & Northern Lights

Best of South Iceland

(6 days / 5 nights).

• Travel Style
• Multi-Day Tours

Celebrate the Christmas Season in Iceland

Winter is rarely more beautiful than in South Iceland. And with guides to navigate the roads on this 6-day multi-day tour, all you have to do is sit back and enjoy those stunning views. You will have a chance to tour regions like the classic Golden Circle and scenic south coast, bathe in the soothing waters of the Blue Lagoon, and enjoy activities like a guided Christmas walk around Reykjavík, and hunting for the otherworldly northern lights.

Want to stay in Iceland longer? You can easily add extra days before and after the tour during the booking steps to extend your holiday.

6 days / 5 nights

Price p.p. from

The amount will be charged in ISK

Approx 313620 ISK

— why book with nordic visitor.

• Hassle-free & seamless travel experience
• Quality and value for your money
• Local experts in Iceland and trusted suppliers
• Customisable and personal tour options
• Carbon offsetting included

— Cancellation Protection

• Rebook your tour on one occasion, or
• Cancel for any reason and receive a partial refund and travel credit

Terms and conditions apply

Tour Highlights

• Hunt for the majestic northern lights on a small group tour
• Explore the famous Golden Circle route by guided small group tour
• Feel the power of the thundering waterfall Gullfoss
• Marvel at eruptions at the Geysir geothermal region
• Visit the striking waterfalls Seljalandsfoss  and Skógafoss
• Bathe in the world famous Blue Lagoon
• Stroll around Reykjavik and visit popular landmarks on a guided Christmas walk
• Enjoy a gourmet Christmas dinner in Reykjavík

Travel style

Multi-day tours i, christmas i , city break i , classic i , northern lights i, 20,21,22,23 dec, attractions.

Just a few of the majestic sights you’ll take in during your trip.

Blue Lagoon

Seljalandsfoss.

A day-by-day plan to guide your journey.

Day 1: Welcome to Reykjavík & Northern Lights

On arrival to Keflavik International Airport, you will be greeted by a professional driver who will take you to your accommodation in Reykjavík. After settling in, the rest of the day is free for you to explore Reykjavik. You can stroll the charming capital city, visit museums, and explore landmarks. Downtown Reykjavík offers numerous excellent restaurants and cafés, as well as bars, for those who want to experience the renowned Reykjavík nightlife.

In the evening, get ready to search for the otherworldly northern lights. You will join a guided small group bus tour with a knowledgeable driver that will find a great spot to view the white, green and sometimes red lights dancing and flickering in the sky.

Spend the next five nights in Reykjavik.

*Please note that the northern lights are a natural phenomenon, so sightings cannot be guaranteed. We book the Northern Lights Tour on your first day to optimise your chances of a sighting during your trip. Should the excursion be cancelled due to adverse weather, we can rebook you later on during your stay.

Please note that the order of activities on this itinerary may vary depending on your arrival date.

Day 2: Exploring the Golden Circle

Today you visit some of Iceland’s most famous attractions with a small guided group tour of the classic “Golden Circle” route in South Iceland. You will start the day heading to Hveragerði where the bus will make a short stop before continuing on your journey.

One of the many highlights you’ll see today is the impressive Kerið Crater. Other attractions include the magical two-tiered Gullfoss waterfall and the spouting hot springs of Geysir . While Geysir lies dormant, its neighbour Strokkur erupts every few minutes, gushing steam and water high into the air.

The last stop of the day is Þingvellir National Park , a place of great historical and geological significance. It is also one of Iceland’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Þingvellir is the site of the country’s first parliament and is located along the edge of the great rift between the Eurasian and American tectonic plates.

Spend the night in Reykjavík.

Day 3: The South Coast – Glaciers and Black Sand Beaches

Enjoy a guided group tour along the striking south coast of Iceland on another day of adventures. Start your journey with a stop at the picture-perfect, 60-metre-high (197-foot-high) Skógafoss waterfall. Next you’ll stop at  Reynisfjara , a hauntingly beautiful black sand beach. You will then continue towards the town of Vík where you’ll make a photo stop at the local church, which offers expansive views of the landscape.

Then it is time to head back along the south coast. You will stop at Sólheimajökull glacier where you will learn everything about glaciers and the area. The last highlight of the day is the picturesque Seljalandsfoss  waterfall, which is 40 metres (131 feet) high. Its main attraction, besides the scenery, is the pathway leading behind the waterfall, giving you a chance to admire the falls from all angles. Later, you’ll return to Reykjavík.

Day 4: Christmas Walk & Dinner Celebration

Start the day with a cultural, culinary walking tour led by a local guide dressed in Iceland´s intricate national costume. This leisurely stroll through downtown Reykjavík, which will be lit up with Christmas lights and decorations, gives you insight into unique Icelandic Christmas traditions as well as the city’s history, architecture and culture. You will get to enjoy a taste of Iceland’s culinary secrets at various stops inluding the uniquely-prepared fermented shark, as well as dried fish and malt ale.

You will also visit the Settler´s exhibition that houses the oldest ruins of a Viking farm in Iceland and Reykjavik oldest cemetery to read some runes. Before the tour ends you will receive a lovely souvenir to remember your time in Iceland.

At 18:00, the church bells ring throughout Reykjavik as Icelanders begin their Christmas celebrations with their families at home.  This evening you will head to a charming restaurant in downtown Reykjavík where you will enjoy a delicious Christmas dinner.

Please note: the itinerary for this day is set on the 24th of December.

Day 5: Relax at the Blue Lagoon & Enjoy leisure time in Reykjavik

Today, you will be picked up for a visit to the famous Blue Lagoon. You will have a chance to bathe in the heated geothermal pool, which is rich with silica and soothing for your skin, and enjoy the unique surroundings. You can also visit a sauna or steambath and chooose from an array of spa services (which must be booked in advance).

After your time at the Blue Lagoon, you will board a transfer back to Reykjavík, where you can spend the late afternoon, and evening, at your leisure. 

Day 6: Departure From Iceland

Your winter getaway to Iceland has come to an end, and you will have a semi-private transfer from your accommodation to Keflavik International Airport. If you are departing in the afternoon and are interested in adding an optional activity, please arrange with your travel consultant in advance, as there are a limited number of activities available due to the holiday.

Please note: the itinerary is set based on arrival on the 21st of December. If you are arriving on the 20th, 22nd or 23rd your travel consultant will rearrange the itinerary accordingly with the Christmas celebration set on the 24th of December.

Optional extras

Customise your adventure with these Optional Extras.

We recommend adding your extra activities to the tour now for the best booking experience and to secure your spot, as activities are likely to sell out.

Upgrade: Northern Lights Super Jeep Tour

Flyover iceland, upgrade: super jeep & snowmobiling, upgrade: private airport transfer - departure.

Here’s a map of your travel route, to help put things in perspective.

What's included

Don’t worry, we’ve got this covered.

• One private transfer from Keflavík Airport to Reykjavík
• Accommodation (Comfort Plus/Superior) for 5 nights
• Daily Breakfast
• Guided Small Group Northern Lights Bus Tour
• Guided Small Group Bus Tour of the Golden Circle
• Guided Small Group Bus Tour of the South Coast
• Guided Christmas Eve Walking Tour in Reykjavík
• 3 Course Gourmet Dinner on the 24th of December in Reykjavík
• Blue Lagoon: Experience Comfort Package (including entrance, towel and a drink)
• Return transfer from Reykjavík to/from the Blue Lagoon
• One semi-private transfer from Reykjavík to Keflavík Airport on departure
• Carbon offsetting the package
• Nordic Visitor's Iceland Travel Guide
• Map of Reykjavík and detailed personal itinerary
• 24/7 helpline
• Taxes & service fees

Not included

• Flights to/from Iceland
• Transfers to/from Christmas Eve dinner
• Personal travel insurance
• Meals, drinks & entrance fees, unless otherwise stated
• Any services not listed above as “Included”

Optional Extras

• Cancellation Protection

Essential information

Everything you need to know about this tour before you book

We recommend that you read carefully through the following information before booking this multi-day tour in Iceland. We’ve answered the most frequently asked questions here so you know what to expect. You’ll also find more practical advice and attraction recommendations in our online Iceland Travel Guide .

On a multi-day tour, Nordic Visitor books your accommodation and excursions for a self-guided travel experience. That means you’ll enjoy some free time to explore on your own as well as planned, guided day tours. 

Each activity is run by a different tour operator, so you’ll get to meet a few local guides throughout your trip. 

You can rest assured that Nordic Visitor only works with a small number of handpicked suppliers that meet our high standards. The activities you’ll participate in are all extremely well rated so you’re sure to have a memorable time.

During your tour, we’re with you every step of the way. On arrival, you’ll receive personalised information, including an itinerary, map and detailed Iceland Travel Guide. Plus, you’ll always be able to reach us on your trip by calling our 24/7 helpline.

Yes, when you book your Iceland tour with Nordic Visitor, you always get airport transfers to and from Keflavík Airport included. This will be a private, shared or bus transfer, depending on your itinerary. Please check the details of your tour to confirm.

If you add extra nights to your stay before or after the scheduled trip, we’ll rearrange your transfers to fit your new itinerary.

Don’t hesitate to get in touch with your travel consultant if you have any specific requests about optional activities or services.

Yes, you can customise this tour online. During the booking process, you can add extra nights to your itinerary as well as optional day trips, excursions and upgrades. 

If you have something specific in mind, get in touch with your travel consultant and they’ll create your dream trip.

Your day-by-day itinerary will be modified based on your arrival date. Except for some fixed events, the other days will be rearranged by your travel consultant to make sure you take full advantage of your time in Iceland.

On your multi-day tour, you’ll stay in accommodation that’s been hand-picked by our local Iceland travel experts. We’ve partnered with local businesses and selected hotels and guesthouses based on excellent ratings, comfort and our personal experience.

During the booking process, you can choose from single, double or triple rooms. Please note that in Iceland room types are based on European standard sizes, which means they are smaller than in North America.

For example, a double bed often consists of 2 single beds pushed together. Twin rooms are 2 separate single beds. Triple rooms include a double bed along with an extra bed, rollaway or sofa bed. And single rooms are often smaller than the standard double.

If you have anything specific in mind, please  contact us  to discuss customising your accommodation options.

By booking with Nordic Visitor, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that there’s always someone there for you throughout your trip.

For support and advice during the day, you can call our office. And if anything unexpected happens outside working hours, you can reach us on our 24/7 helpline. 

During your tour, there will always be a Reykjavík-based travel expert on call to handle any unforeseen situations, such as unusual weather or events.

If you’re arriving from Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia or New Zealand, you won’t need a visa to visit Iceland. 

Visiting from another country? You can find the complete list of countries whose nationals require a visa to enter Iceland on the website of Iceland’s  Directorate of Immigration . If you do require a visa, they maintain a list of local embassies that can assist you with the process. 

Your passport must also be valid for at least 3 months from your departure from Iceland. It’s good to check your passport expiry date early in case you need to renew it. 

Read more about visas, airports and airlines in the  getting to Iceland  section of our travel guide.

Travelling with your kids? No problem! You'll be able to enter your children's ages during the booking process. This lets us know whether to arrange either a baby cot or roll-away bed for your trip.

Only you can pick the best time to visit Iceland for your trip. It’ll depend on how much time you have to explore, what you want to see in Iceland and any events you might like to attend.

In summer, June to August , you’ll have milder temperatures and longer daylight hours, compared to the winter. This is ideal for outdoor excursions and sightseeing. 

If you’d like to experience the top attractions with fewer visitors around then you could book your summer trip in May or September . These shoulder season months have more tour and attraction availability.

The winter months are also popular, but generally quieter, apart from the Christmas holiday season. This is the ideal time to try to spot the northern lights.

Find out what  annual Icelandic events and festivals  are on in our travel guide. Or read more about the  best time to visit Iceland  on our blog.

The festive holidays are meaningful for Icelanders. For that reason, shops, museums and restaurants usually close their doors for part of the holiday season. They are often as follows: 23 December: Open until late 24 December (Christmas Eve): Open until noon 25 December (Christmas Day): Closed 26 December: Closed 27- 30 December: Open as usual 31 December (New Year’s Eve): Open until noon 1 January (New Year’s Day): Closed A few establishments will remain open during the holidays. For more information, you should call or check online for each spot you’d like to visit on those days.

Please note: We highly recommend you make dinner reservations well in advance if you are staying in Iceland at this time of year.

Because of its northerly location close to the Arctic Circle, Iceland has limited daylight in winter. 

Around Christmastime, from early December until late January, you can expect an average of 4–5 hours of daylight. These extended hours of darkness give you a higher chance of seeing the northern lights.

Find out what the daylight hours will be during the month of your visit in this guide to time and daylight in Iceland .

Yes! Wintertime is the right season to visit Iceland if you want to see the northern lights (or aurora borealis). You can experience the northern lights between October and March, with peak visibility from December through February. 

For the best chances of seeing them, a self-drive tour is ideal. It means you have the flexibility of deciding when and where to go. To enjoy the aurora at its brightest, you’ll want to head into or even stay in the countryside, away from city lights.

Please note that as the northern lights are a natural phenomenon, sightings cannot be guaranteed. Even if you go out on a specific northern lights excursion, you might not see them, depending on the conditions or cloud cover. 

Read our Iceland northern lights guide to learn more.

The winter climate in Iceland is generally mild compared to other Northern European countries. That said, the temperature can drop below freezing at times. And the Atlantic winds can make it feel colder than it is. 

You can expect average temperatures between 4°C (39°F) and -1°C (30°F). Throughout winter (October to April), the weather conditions are very changeable, so you could experience rain, snow, sun and cold winds. 

For more information on the local climate, read this guide to Iceland weather conditions . 

Please note that sightseeing is dependent on weather and road conditions. Your itinerary might need to be altered if these conditions are not favourable during your visit.

Your scheduled journey to the Blue Lagoon is by bus, with up to 70 travellers. When you arrive in Iceland, you’ll receive vouchers with all your transfer details.

Children must be at least 2 years old to visit the Blue Lagoon. And it’s mandatory for children aged 2 to 8 to wear inflatable armbands while in the lagoon. These are provided free of charge. 

Please note that only 2 children under the age of 10 can be admitted into the lagoon per guardian.

Yes, you can. The Blue Lagoon is open year-round and popular during the festive season. 

Your dedicated travel consultant will book your entrance in advance, so you’ll have a specific arrival time and duration at the lagoon. If you’d prefer a different time, please let us know as soon as possible.

Iceland’s winters are chilly although not as cold as you may expect. As you’ll probably spend a lot of time outdoors, we recommend bringing plenty of layers to stay warm and dry.

Here is a recommended winter packing list for your trip to Iceland:

• Durable insulated jacket, which should be waterproof
• Robust walking boots with a good grip
• Mid-layers such as a fleece or woollen jumper
• A few pairs of warm hiking socks
• Hat, gloves and scarf
• Swimwear for visiting geothermal pools or spas
• Backpack for daily adventures
• Electronic equipment such as smartphone, external powerpack, and travel adapters
• Reusable water bottle
• Sunglasses and sunscreen for exploring in the snow or glacier excursions
• And don’t forget your camera!  

For more information, check out this  Iceland packing list .

Breakfast at your Iceland accommodations is always included when you travel with Nordic Visitor.  For the rest of your meals, the amount of spending money you need will depend on the standard of restaurants you decide to go to. 

That said, we recommend budgeting between 2,000–3,000 ISK for lunch per person, each day. Dinners at casual restaurants might cost between 3,000–6,000 ISK. Meanwhile, at upscale restaurants, you can expect to pay 7,000 ISK or more. This does not include the cost of alcoholic beverages.

It’s best to book as soon as you can to secure your preferred travel dates. Once you have picked your tour, check the availability calendar to see which months are open for booking. Then, select the date you want and complete your booking. 

Nordic Visitor offers 10–20% deposits so you can reserve your trip as early as it’s convenient for you. The remaining balance is due 30 days before you travel. 

Many tours are also open for the following year if you like to plan well ahead. And if you have any questions or need advice, you can always contact us . 

After booking your tour package online, you will be contacted within 2 business days by your own dedicated travel consultant. They will be your point of contact for all your travel needs before, during and even after your trip. 

At that time, they’ll confirm the availability of your tour. Then the booking process starts, which may take a few weeks. Once this is done, your travel consultant will provide you with all the details of your trip. You will also receive more information about what to expect during your trip.

No need! Nordic Visitor is already working on offsetting the estimated carbon footprint of your package. We’ve partnered with an environmental fund in Iceland to carbon offset all our tours.

Carbon offsetting your international flights is not included, but we highly recommend you look into possibilities with your airline or directly through a local environment fund. 

You can get in touch with our Iceland travel experts ahead of your trip if you have any questions. The live chat option is useful for getting a quick reply as someone answers live every day during office opening hours.

Once you’ve booked, we’ll provide you with a travel guide packed full of local tips and top attractions for your visit. You can also check out our online Iceland Travel Guide where we’ve compiled useful information about topics, including:

• Which credit cards are widely accepted in Iceland
• What kind of electric adapters or converters you’ll need
• Which languages do Icelanders speak (yes, English is one of them!)
• How to get a refund on tax-free shopping
• As well as tipping, buying souvenirs, and other useful information

After you have booked your tour, it will only take a few days to confirm its availability. But it may take a few weeks to create your itinerary and book everything. Once your trip details are finalised, we’ll email you copies of your travel documents.

When you arrive in Iceland, you’ll receive a welcome bag with hard copies of your itinerary, attraction and tour vouchers, the Nordic Visitor Iceland Travel Guide and more.

So when do you check in? And what can you expect upon landing in Keflavík?

After picking up your luggage, you will be greeted by a driver holding a sign with your name in the arrivals hall. The driver will hand over your welcome package with hard copies of your travel documents. You’ll then be driven to your hotel in Reykjavík.

Check-in times vary between hotels and guesthouses, but it normally starts between 2 PM and 4 PM. 

You are welcome to request an early check-in for an additional fee. Although this isn’t always available, you’ll be able to store your luggage at the hotel so you can start exploring before check-in. Please contact your travel consultant well in advance of your arrival if you’d like an early check-in.

When you depart may depend on the time of your return flight. Check out early if you’re heading to the airport for a morning flight. On the other hand, if you’re flying home later in the day, you might like to enjoy a leisurely day or visit one more attraction.

You will need to check out from your room, but will be able to store your luggage at the hotel reception. Simply return later to collect your bags before catching your transfer to the airport.

All bookings are billed in Icelandic Króna (ISK), the official currency of Iceland. 

Prices displayed in other currencies are indicative only and based on the daily exchange rate as issued by the Central Bank of Iceland. This means conversions from ISK to other currencies will fluctuate from day to day.

These should tide you over until you’re in Iceland to take your own pictures.

Northern Lights in Iceland

Mount Esja in Iceland

Christmas tree in Austurvöllur, downtown Reykjavik ©nordicvisitor

Blue Lagoon in Iceland in winter ©Blue Lagoon

Gullfoss in Iceland

Geysir Iceland

+8 more from this tour

Skógafoss Waterfall

Þingvellir National Park in South Iceland

Northern lights in Iceland

Christmas in Reykjavik

Skógafoss Waterfall in South Iceland

Hallgrimskirkja Church

Dómkirkjan Church in Reykjavík

View of the Seljalandsfoss waterfall in Iceland in winter

We don’t like to brag, so we’ll let our happy customers do it for us.

Really appreciate the level of communication before and during our trip. It eased so many of my concerns and it made it a wonderful trip. Thank you! The transportation information provided was very detailed and any time I had a question during my tour they were very responsive via email.

Laura, United States

Christmas & northern lights, december 2022, the most amazing experience.

Easy to book, excellent communication from booking. Nothing was too much trouble. We had the most amazing experience in Iceland and Nordic Visitor exceeded our expectations.

Helen, United Kingdom

Absolutely wonderful.

Margrét was absolutely wonderful. She was incredibly helpful and responsive. Despite the issues we experienced we would recommend Nordic Visitor to our friends and family just for Margrét's professionalism throughout the booking process and her help during the tour.

Samantha, United States

We will definitely use nordic visitor again.

Nordic Visitor laid out a great itinerary for our Christmas visit to Iceland. They were there when we needed them during our visit to assist. We saw parts of Iceland we would never have seen if we had tried to plan the trip ourselves. We learned so much about the Icelandic heritage and traditions during our short visit. When we look to book our Norway visit we will definitely reach out to Nordic Visitor again.

David, United States

Accommodation.

Relax in a top city hotel or guesthouse that is highly rated by visitors and handpicked by local travel experts.

Look forward to sleeping soundly in Iceland. The accommodation you’ll stay in is conveniently located in Reykjavík for pickups for your day trips. Rest assured that you’ll stay in one of the best possible properties, as we only choose accommodation that has received excellent reviews from previous customers.

Comfort Plus

In this category, you’ll stay in standard rooms in good quality and comfortable 3-star hotels, guesthouses or charming country hot..

With Superior accommodation, you’ll enjoy standard rooms in 4-star hotels or boutique guesthouses. You might also stay in superior..

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Christmas & Northern Lights / Included

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Festive Tours

Discover a better way to celebrate the Festive season in Europe. Albatross Tours were the first to offer Festive European Christmas experiences to our Australian and New Zealand travellers, we were the original, and we are incredibly proud that we are still the best. Each and every one of our European Christmas, New Year and Northern Lights tours are bursting with festive activities, adventures and exciting bucket list experiences. Join us by choosing from our incredible range of European festive tours that bring alive the nostalgia, joy and romance of this wonderful time of year.

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Board the famous Glacier Express for a scenic train journey through the Swiss Alps

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I traveled beyond the Arctic Circle to see the Northern Lights. Here are 4 things to know before you go.

• I traveled north of the Arctic Circle to a tiny village in Finland for a chance to see the northern lights.
• I booked a tour as far north as I could afford for the best chance of seeing the colorful auroras.
• The location made viewing the northern lights easier, but they were different than I expected.

In February, I finally checked off one of my top bucket list items — seeing the aurora borealis, better known as the northern lights.

The auroras occur when charged solar particles from the sun interact with the Earth's upper atmosphere, resulting in an array of colorful lights beaming from the planet's poles. They occur year-round but can only be seen in winter months during the long polar nights.

I journeyed all the way to Finland's northernmost municipality, Utsjoki, about 280 miles north of the Arctic Circle. The trek required two plane rides from New York to Ivalo, Finland, via Helsinki, plus a two-hour drive deep into the snow-covered Lapland.

The secluded village is home to Aurora Holidays , the tour company I used for my trip. I paid about $2,000 total, which included guides, full room and board, a village tour, reindeer feeding, a king crab fishing trip in Norway, and dog sledding — though prices have increased since I booked. Flights on Finnair were another $1,000.

Aurora Holidays boasts a 100% success rate over five years of seeing the auroras thanks to a lack of light pollution in the northern location — and, fortunately, the streak continued on my trip.

Here are four things to know when planning a trip to see the aurora lights and why I recommend getting as far north as possible to maximize your chances — even if it means facing bone-chilling temperatures and relying on a little bit of luck.

Location, location, location

While recent environmental phenomena have made the northern lights visible in places as far south as England and Denmark, the aurora borealis are best viewed within the Article Circle.

The far north is hard to reach, though, and popular viewing spots like Fairbanks, Alaska, Tromsø, Norway, and Canada's Northwest Territories sit below the 66° 34' N latitude that defines the region.

Plus, these often-crowded tourist destinations have light pollution that requires people to venture out of the city into darker areas to see the lights.

Utsjoki, however, is so remote that it offers complete darkness during the long polar nights. Even better, my accommodation was perfectly situated facing north across Lapland — meaning I could see the auroras from my cabin porch.

"A lot of people don't know that for the highest possibilities to see the lights, location matters," Aurora Holiday's owner, Tiina Salonen, told me during the tour. "The rule of thumb is that the further north you travel, the less [solar] activity you need to have lights in the sky."

Other places within the Arctic Circle, like Abisko National Park in Sweden or Ilulissat, Greenland, are also good viewing spots.

Pack for below-zero temperatures

During my trip, the temperature reached -8°F, which is even colder than what I experienced in Antarctica . Fortunately, my previous polar expedition taught me how to pack.

I opted for a merino wool base layer from REI, which I prefer due to its moisture-wicking abilities . I also wore a fleece pullover and a Kathmandu puffer as my mid-layers and a 600-fill jacket as my shell. I also wore snow pants, ski gloves, wool socks, a fleece buff, a beanie, and hiking boots.

All of that combined, I was easily warm enough to stand outside under the lights. I also recommend bringing hand and foot warmers if you plan to do other winter activities like snowshoeing or snowmobiling.

One thing to remember about going to extremely remote places like northern Lapland is how far you are away from a proper hospital — the closest to Utsjoki being a few hour's drive, according to Tiina. Wearing the right clothes to prevent frost bite or illness is important, but it wouldn't hurt to get travel insurance , too — just in case.

The vibrant colors that appear in photos are not what humans see

Not every color of the northern auroras is visible to the naked eye. During my trip, I could clearly see streaks of green and white, but the intensity and array of colors were more vivid in photos taken on my iPhone.

Tiina explained this is because cameras can take in more light than a human's nighttime vision can, therefore allowing it to capture otherwise invisible colors, like pink, red, and purple.

I'll admit that the auroras were much fainter than I expected, but that didn't take away from the beauty. Nevertheless, some people may be disappointed it isn't the extravagant Disney-like display social media sometimes makes it seem.

Seeing the lights takes a little bit of luck

During my six-day, five-night tour in Utsjoki, we only saw the auroras once — which is the reality of lights chasing, and why I booked a longer vacation to better my odds of seeing them.

That night was perfectly clear, and the solar activity was relatively strong, allowing the beautiful green beams to dance across the sky. The other nights, however, were too cloudy to see anything.

"The lights are there, but if it is super cloudy — we can't, of course, see them," Tiina told me. I noticed this when I was further south in Ivalo before and after the tour in Utsjoki. I couldn't see the auroras either night I was there due to the clouds, even though the online tracker said they were out.

Sometimes tour companies like Tiina's can drive around to find pockets where the auroras are visible, but it's not always possible — which makes seeing the lights a roll of the dice and why I now warn people to manage their expectations before booking a trip.

"Even here in Utsjoki, we cannot guarantee the lights — after all, it is a natural phenomenon, and Mother Nature is in charge," Tiina said.

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