the northern lights tour iceland

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Northern Lights Tours & Trips in Iceland

63 northern lights tour packages in iceland with 2,121 reviews.

Northern Lights Family

6 day Guided tour | Hidden Powers & Northern Lights Hunt - Small Group

"Such an incredible experience! The only thing it's missing is a visit to Sky Lagoon, but you have two free days where you can do it on your own." Alyssa, traveled in February 2023

6 day Guided tour | Hidden Powers & Northern Lights Hunt

"Had an amazing trip through southern Iceland. For a shorter length trip it still felt like we saw a lot." Mollie, traveled in February 2024

Explorer Active Family Northern Lights Christmas & New Year +2

8 Day - Iceland Northern Lights Tour

"This tour is a wonderful way to see all of Iceland!" Carolyn, traveled in March 2024

5 Day - Snaefellsnes, South Coast and Northern Lights

"Amazing experience, all the help received online from agents was great. I would definitely recommend this to my friends." John, traveled in October 2023

Northern Lights Exploration (Small Group) - 8 days

Explorer Family Northern Lights +1

Land of the Northern Lights - 5 days

"The landscape was beautiful. The Secret Lagoon was wonderful." Susie, traveled in November 2023

Explorer Active Family Northern Lights +1

5 Days Land of Northern Lights

"Nice place to visit, good itenary. The location is good." hariyanto, traveled in February 2024

8 Days Northern Lights Exploration

"sehr gut organisiert, abwechslungreiche Reisezusammenstellung, kompetenter isländischer Reiseleiter." Thomas, traveled in February 2024

The Magical of Northern Lights Circle Tour (8 days / 7 nights)* Experience Iceland in all its Winter Glory*

Iceland Luxury Adventure - *Winter Northern Light, Winter Wonders & Blue Lagoon Retreat*

Iceland's Magical Northern Lights (2024)

7 Days ICELAND | REYKJAVIK, GOLDEN CIRCLE & SOUTH COAST (Group Tour)

"The combination of local city tours in Reykjavik and small guided tours to the Golden Circle and South Coast gave us an incredible variety of memorable experiences." Elaine, traveled in July 2023

Explorer Family Self Drive Northern Lights +1

7 Days Self-drive | Golden Circle, South Coast, Snæfellsnes and Reykjavik

"The nightly accommodations were clean and comfortable, and breakfast was plentiful at each hotel." Ellen, traveled in August 2023

Explorer Northern Lights Christmas & New Year +1

Northern Lights Escape

"Great trip. Intrepid always seems to have the best." Craig, traveled in March 2023

Explorer Active Northern Lights Christmas & New Year +2

Iceland Northern Lights & Golden Circle

"Absolutely fantastic. 5 Stars all the way" Amanda, traveled in March 2023

What people love about Northern Lights Tours in Iceland

Although we did not get to see the Northern Lights we still had a great time. Iceland is filled with beautiful sights. Our guide tour Haruno was excellent. He was informative and entertaining.

Iceland has so much natural attractions to offer. My wife and I have traveled extensively and Iceland stands out.

We had a fantastic time touring around Iceland! Our driver and guide Marie was so funny and informative. I highly recommend this tour if you are traveling alone but want company or if you are not sure about seeing sites on your own. One piece of advice is to pack light. Debbie

Regions in Iceland

• South Iceland (40)
• Iceland South Coast (27)

Travel Styles

• Northern Lights
• 10 Best Northern Lights Tours in February 2024/2025
• 10 Best Northern Lights Tours in January 2024/2025
• 10 Best Northern Lights Tours in March 2024/2025
• 10 Best Northern Lights Tours in April 2024/2025
• 10 Best Northern Lights Tours in October 2024/2025
• 10 Best Northern Lights Tours in November 2024/2025
• 10 Best Northern Lights Tours in December 2024/2025
• 10 Amazing Northern Lights Tours & Trips 2024/2025
• 10 Best Northern Lights Trips For Single Travellers 2024/2025
• 10 Romantic Northern Lights Getaways For Couples 2024/2025
• 10 Best Northern Lights Tours For Seniors 2024/2025
• 10 Best Northern Lights Tours in September 2024/2025
• 10 Best Northern Lights Tours in August 2024/2025
• Iceland Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best 7 Day Iceland Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
• Best 10 Day Iceland Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
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THE ULTIMATE NORTHERN LIGHTS EXPERIENCE IN ICELAND

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TRIPADVISOR HAS ANNOUNCED THAT OUR “ULTIMATE NORTHERN LIGHTS TOUR” HAS BEEN RECOGNIZED AS 2022 TRAVELERS’ CHOICE BEST OF THE BEST AWARD WINNER FOR TOP OVERALL EXPERIENCES IN ICELAND, RANKING SIXTH OUT OF 10 EXPERIENCES IN ICELAND. WITH THESE AWARDS, OUR ULTIMATE NORTHERN LIGHTS TOUR IS IN THE TOP 1% OF THINGS TO DO WORLDWIDE AND THE ONLY NORTHERN LIGHTS TOUR THAT MADE IT TO THE 2022 LIST.

The Ultimate Northern Lights Tour WITH ALL INCLUSIVE

The ultimate Private Northern Lights Tour 

The Ultimate Golden Circle & Northern Lights Tour

Why Aurora Experts?

EMBARK ON AN AWARD-WINNING SMALL GROUP AND PREMIUM NORTHERN LIGHTS TOUR IN ICELAND WITH 93% SIGHTING RATE , UNLIMITED AMOUNT OF PROFESSIONAL TOUR PHOTOS, WARM WINTER JUMPSUITS, OUTDOOR CHAIRS AND TRADITIONAL ICELANDIC SNACKS & DRINKS ON LOCATION. TO MAINTAIN AN INTIMATE AND COZY EXPERIENCE, OUR TOUR ONLY ACCOMMODATES A MAXIMUM OF 16 PASSENGERS WHICH IS A SMALL GROUP GUARANTEE THAT IS VERY HARD TO FIND ANYMORE HERE IN ICELAND. NO MORE CROWDED TOURS THAT COMPROMISE THE MAGIC!

Small Group Guarantee

Free Re-trie

Free Winter Overalls

Traditional Snack & Drinks

Free Beautiful Photos

Free Tripods

100% Refundable

Professional Guides

What our guests say, five star service.

We’d highly recommend using Heimir at Aurora Experts – Iceland. He had a small group guarantee, is so knowledgeable on the island, the lights and so much more. He had some Icelandic treats for us to sample while we were waiting for activity including some much needed hot chocolate. We could tell it was as fun for him as it was us. So happy we booked with him instead of one of the big tour groups. The personal service was unforgettable!

Janine Muckelroy – 27. November 2021

THE BEST AURORA EXPERIENCE

Unreal experience Aurora Experts in Iceland, the enthusiasm of the tour guide on was amazing, they really want us to had the best experience ever, they had jumpsuits to keep us warm which was a lifesaver and they had traditional Icelandic food. They also took amazing photos of us all, and the overall experience was incredible. Cannot recommend it enough. They let us stay for as long as we wanted, and that also made the experience even more enjoyable. it was AMAZING, lifetime experience.

Bruna Dontal – 18. November 2021

Highly Recommend - Incredible Experience

This tour was absolutely incredible! Heimir stayed in constant contact with us throughout the week on weather conditions and the best day/time to see the lights. We were able to see the lights and had amazing pictures of us taken. Despite it being cold, they provided extremely warm overalls that kept us comfortable and even brought traditional Icelandic foods for us to try which were amazing! They let us stay as long as we wanted so we could really enjoy the moment. This experience was top of my bucket list, and I highly recommend Heimer and Aurora Experts – Iceland for all future Northern Lights Tours!

Elaine – 20. November 2021

10/10 best tour guides

These guys are amazing!! Heimir had excellent communication with our group to make sure we had the best chance of seeing the lights. The whole experience was perfect. We saw the lights and got wonderful professional photos! They also make sure everyone is warm with the provided jumpsuits. We will definitely book with Heimir the next time we’re in Iceland.

Kristin G – 18. November 2021

The BEST Northern Lights Tour!!

Our group of 7 had the absolute best time!! We were thrilled to find a personalized experience and were blown away with the communication with Heimir prior to our tour and our overall tour! I felt like I couldn’t have trusted a better person to give us the best opportunity to see the northern lights on our trip of a lifetime! We saw them, have wonderful pictures to remember them by and also got to experience local eats and drinks during the tour! It truly couldn’t have been better. We have already told others planning their trips about this tour and we plan to come back!!

Heather – 17. November 2021

The personal service was unforgettable!

Just got home from our week long trip where the weather was cold, cloudy and not the best for viewing the lights. We had a KP2 on our last night so we went for it with help from a private guide that was bound and determined to make sure we didn’t leave the island without a show. We’d highly recommend using Heimir at Aurora Experts – Iceland. He had a small group guarantee, is so knowledgeable on the island, the lights and so much more. He had some Icelandic treats for us to sample while we were waiting for activity including some much needed hot chocolate. We could tell it was as fun for him as it was us. So happy we booked with him instead of one of the big tour groups. The personal service was unforgettable!

Lovetravel94767 – 1. December 2021

auroraexperts

Aurora Experts is a subsidiary brand and big part of the Ultimate Iceland family.

At Ultimate Iceland our mission is to provide personalised, high quality and sustainable service to every guest. We believe that with our experience and expertise, combined with passion for travel we can partner with you to craft a truly unique and unforgettable holiday in Iceland.

Beyond the trip, our goal is to make you love Iceland as much as we do!

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The 7 Best Iceland Northern Lights Tours [2024 Reviews]

One of the most magical experiences anyone can have is seeing the Aurora Borealis dance across the night sky in an explosion of shapes and vivid colors.

If viewing the Northern Lights is on your bucket list, Iceland is undoubtedly the best place to experience this natural light phenomenon in relative comfort.

From September to April every year, dedicated tour guides take excited visitors on nightly hunts to find ideal locations to observe the beauty of nature. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to join the fortunate few who have witnessed Nature’s most wonderful light show.

Be sure to see our reviews of Golden Circle Tours , Whale Watching Tours and ATV Tours .

Best Northern Lights Tours in Iceland

Quick answer: the 7 best rated iceland northern lights tours.

• Best Value Tour: Small-Group Premium Northern Lights Tour from Reykjavik
• Best Cruise Tour: Northern Lights by Boat from Reykjavik
• Best Private Tour: Northern Lights Private Tour from Reykjavik
• Best Adventure Tour: Reykjavik ATV & Northern Lights Tour
• Best Budget Cruise: Northern Lights Boat Cruise From Reykjavik
• Best Small Group Tour: 3-Hour Northern Lights Tour From Akureyri
• Best Multi-Day Tour: 4-Day Blue Ice Cave and Northern Lights Tour From Reykjavik

Read on for our favorite Northern Lights tours in Iceland providing overviews and highlighting the details of each. We also make recommendations on staying in Iceland in our guide section.

Iceland Northern Lights Tour Reviews

1. small-group premium northern lights tour from reykjavik.

• Departure Point : Pick up service from central Reykjavik hotels
• Departure Time : 9:30 PM
• Duration : 4 hours
• Includes : Experienced tour guide, a minibus ride into the countryside, refreshments, free-reschedule if you don’t see the Northern Lights, and free entry into the Aurora Museum

The minibus will pick you up from your hotel in Reykjavik and transport you into the depths of the Icelandic countryside. Here you will be leaving behind the light pollution of the city and seeking out the darkest places with the clearest patches of sky to view the world’s most famous light display.

With only 15 passengers on each tour, you will enjoy the intimacy of a small group sharing a journey of discovery as you hunt the Aurora Borealis.

The guide uses their local knowledge and experience, as well as communication with other guides, to find the most likely locations for clear viewing. Refreshments are provided while you continue your adventure—Icelandic donuts, hot chocolate, and fermented shark … if you’re brave enough.

The tour operators are so positive you will see the Northern Lights during your quest that they guarantee a free reschedule if you don’t. You can cancel your tour up to 24 hours beforehand with no charge. This tour also includes free entry to the Aurora Museum in Reykjavik.

More Information & Tour Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, other experiences you may enjoy:, 2. northern lights by boat in reykjavik.

• Departure Point : Reykjavik Old Harbor (Hotel pick-up available on request)
• Departure Time : 9 PM
• Duration : 2 hours
• Includes : Experienced tour guide, boat cruise, knowledgeable guide, and onboard Wi-Fi

This is a unique and effective way of hunting for a good vantage point to view the Northern Lights unhindered by surrounding landmarks or any light pollution.

Join the friendly, experienced, and knowledgeable crew aboard a luxury boat in Reykjavik Old Harbor and sail into the North Atlantic Ocean.

You will get great views of the city lights and distant mountains. Within 30 minutes, the boat will reach a location free from light pollution where you have an excellent chance of viewing a spectacular light display.

There is Wi-Fi aboard the boat so don’t delay uploading your unique photographs of the Aurora Borealis onto your Facebook account and Instagram. Hot drinks and soup are provided.

If you need to cancel beforehand, there is free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour begins.

If the weather is too rough to set sail, you will be taken on a small private bus ride to hunt the Northern Lights on land. In addition, you will receive a free ticket for the next available boat tour.

3. Private Iceland Northern Lights Tour From Reykjavik

• Departure Point: Hotel pickup included
• Departure Time : 9:00 PM
• Duration : 3 hours
• Includes : Private tour, expert guide

This is a unique opportunity to view the Northern Lights with a private tour. You will go to one or more of these locations: Thingvellir National Park, Hvalfjordur and the Reykjanes Peninsula.

In this rugged environment, far from civilization and light pollution, you have an excellent chance of observing the Aurora Borealis and viewing a spectacular display of dancing colors and shapes in the dark night sky.

Although you will be provided with overalls, you should dress for freezing and changeable weather. It’s a glacier! Wear gloves, headcover, waterproof pants and jacket, and good outdoor shoes.

If you discover that you cannot make the tour, free cancellation is allowed up to 24 hours before the tour begins.

4. Reykjavik ATV & Northern Lights Tour

• Departure Point : Pick up from all Reykjavik hotels and guest houses
• Duration : 6 – 8 hours
• Includes : Experienced tour guide, bus ride into the countryside, blankets, use of a camera

If you are looking for something a little different and exciting, try this northern lights tour by ATV!

You will join a small and intimate group of fellow Aurora Borealis hunters to ride deep into the Icelandic countryside in search of places free from light pollution with clear skies to view this solar wind phenomenon.

An experienced tour guide will use meteorological forecasts, their local knowledge, and intuition to find the best locations and also answer any questions you may have about the Northern Lights.

While seeking the light, you will have the chance to sample delicious Icelandic chocolate while you huddle under the warm blanket provided for your comfort during the cold Icelandic night.

Once you’ve found the world’s greatest light show, don’t worry if your camera can’t capture all the dramatic patterns and shapes dancing overhead.

You will be offered the use of a camera capable of picking out the spectacular variations of colored light in the sky.

If you don’t see the Northern Lights during your tour, you will be offered another opportunity to seek the light free of charge, and if for any reason you can’t make the tour, free cancellation is permitted up to 24 hours before the activity begins.

5. Northern Lights Boat Cruise From Reykjavik

• Departure Point: Hlésgata, 101 Reykjavik Harbor
• Includes : Expert guide, 2-hour cruise, Wi-Fi, onboard toilets, and warm flotation overalls

After meeting at Reykjavik Harbor, experience a 2-hour cruise into the North Atlantic Ocean in search of an ideal location from which to observe and photograph the Northern Lights.

Here you will be far from the noise and light pollution of the city. View the city from the sea while you enjoy refreshments and snacks purchased from a heated indoor bar,

Be sure to dress in the warm flotation overalls provided and step out onto the deck to enjoy the natural lightshow outside.

The Free Wi-Fi is great for uploading your amazing shots of dancing shapes and colors in the night sky onto your Instagram account.

If you get tired, there are seats both inside the cabin and out on the deck. Because the Aurora Borealis is a natural phenomenon, it is always possible that you won’t see the lights on any particular night. But don’t worry.

If you don’t see the Northern Lights on your first cruise, you will be offered the opportunity to try again another night. In the event that you cannot make the tour, free cancellation is permitted up to 24 hours before the cruise begins.

6.  3-Hour Northern Lights Tour From Akureyri

• Departure Point : Pick up from hotels and guest houses
• Includes : Knowledgeable guide, 3-hour minibus , Icelandic pastries, hot cocoa, and blankets

A small minibus picks you up from your guesthouse or hotel to join an intimate group of 17 other Northern Lights hunters and transports you out of the city.

Free from its noise and light pollution, deep into the remote and peaceful countryside of Iceland you can truly enjoy the show.

Snuggle under the blankets provided and enjoy traditional Icelandic pastries and hot cocoa while your expert guide strives to locate the best position to view the spectacular natural light display.

With 4 hours to spend, your minibus will travel deeper into the countryside than any other tour and spend longer searching for the lights. Don’t worry if you don’t see the Northern Lights on your first attempt.

This eager tour operator is determined that you will get to see the world’s most famous display of colors and shapes in the sky, so you will be offered a second and even a third opportunity to search with no extra charge.

If you still don’t see the Aurora Borealis after three attempts, you will receive a voucher entitling you to another trip at a future time. Free cancellations are offered up to 24 hours before the activity starts.

7. 4-Day Blue Ice Cave and Northern Lights Tour From Reykjavik

• Departure Point: Pick up service from Reykjavik
• Departure Time : 8 AM
• Duration : 4 days
• Includes : Expert guide, 3 nights hotel stay and breakfast, visits to 3 waterfalls, 2 geysers, a glacial lagoon, hike along a glacier, hunt for the Northern Lights, and explore inside an ice cave.

If you are dedicated to seeing the Northern Lights but also want to experience some of the other unique natural phenomena around Iceland, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore everything that Iceland has to offer.

Watch a geyser in action, view beautiful waterfalls, explore inside an ice cave, hike along a glacier, and observe the Aurora Borealis.

On the first day of your eventful tour, you will travel to southwestern Iceland and visit Geysir, the waterfall at Gullfoss, and Thingvellir National Park.

The geyser at Geysir is the most famous in the world, and the English word “geyser” is derived from its place name.

You will also see Strokkur geyser nearby, which sprays hot water up to 98 feet into the sky every few minutes, much more frequently than its more famous neighbor. After an action-packed day, relax at a hotel in Hvolsvöllur.

On the second day, you will move on to southern Iceland and visit Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls. Following that, experience a hike across a glacier at Solheimajökull and marvel at the icy landscape of this sublime natural landmark.

Next, you will see the black sand beach at Reynisfjara before visiting Skaftafell Nature Reserve. Before heading back to the hotel, your expert guide will take you on a night hunt for the highlight of the trip—the Aurora Borealis.

On the third day, you will begin with an unforgettable trek inside a spectacular ice cave. Following that, you will visit  Jökulsarlon glacial lagoon.

The icebergs floating in the blue waters will astound you, and if the place looks familiar, that’s because it was used as a setting in many movies, including A View to a Kill , Die Another Day , Batman Begins , Beowulf and Grendel , and Lara Croft Tomb Raider .

Finally, you will return to Reykjavik filled with a wealth of memories.

Iceland Travel Guide

There are many reasons the Land of Fire and Ice has seen an explosion in tourism since 2019. Not only can you see the Northern Lights, active volcanoes, glaciers, and puffins, you can also relax in a geothermal spa and even bake bread inside a pot buried underground.

What you decide to do in this fascinating country is your choice, but you should take the time to do some research before you go. This guide is here to inform you where you can go, what you can do, and how you can get there, because we want you to have the best vacation of your life in Iceland.

Airports & Entry

Most visitors to Iceland arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF). Although Iceland only has a population of 359 thousand people, in 2018 this busy airport handled 9.8 million passengers. Despite the number of visitors, there is only one terminal. You will find the check-in times minimal, with an average 20-minute waiting time at the security check.

Inside the terminal, you will find everything clearly signposted in English. Charging points for cellphones and laptops are provided in the waiting area along with free Wi-Fi.

Strollers are provided for children, and there is a dedicated kids’ play area. The usual selection of food outlets and shops are found on the upper floor of the main building. Manned information stands are located throughout the airport.

It is 30 miles from the airport to Reykjavik, the capital city. The speed limit is 55 mph, but the drive usually takes 50 minutes due to traffic. Shuttle bus services link KEF to the city, which you can book in advance online or pay for at the airport.

Some hotels offer airport collection, and you should ask about that when you book your room. You can, of course, jump in a taxi at the airport, but it will be extremely expensive compared to the airport bus service. Car rental is available at the airport, but it is advisable to book in advance.

Planning Tips

With so many exciting things to do and see in Iceland, you’re guaranteed to have a great holiday. However, things do not always go to plan, so here are 5 tips to help you make the most of your visit.

Tip #1: If you want to see the Aurora Borealis, go between September and March

It’s easier to view the Northern Lights when the sky is at its darkest. In Iceland, the nights are especially long between September and March, but the sky doesn’t grow dark enough to view this magical phenomenon during the summer months. However, do not plan a visit around a full moon, because its light can dampen the impact of this natural light display. The best days to go are around the time of a new moon.

Tip #2: Check out the SolarHam website

If you are especially interested in the Aurora Borealis and want to earn your Geek Badge, check out the SolarHam website. This techy site provides a 3-day geomagnetic forecast, which is useful for aurora hunters to select the best time to view the Northern Lights. The same site provides a satellite map of where the natural light show is right now, so you can look up if you’re near.

Tip #3: Take your time to enjoy all the attractions of Iceland

There’s so much to see in Iceland, it would be a crime not to explore and experience as much as you are able in the time you have. While you are there, do not miss the opportunity to see so many unforgettable natural phenomena in one place. There is nowhere else on the planet where you can see active volcanoes, glaciers, and or ice caves , all in one national park. For an unforgettable experience be sure to take a snowmobile tour , ATV tour of the national park!

Tip #4: Book everything in advance, especially in winter

Tourism is on the rise in Iceland, and hotel rooms, tours, and attractions get fully-booked ahead of time.  Don’t miss out on seeing the Northern Lights from the best vantage point possible because all the tours were booked-up before you arrived. Many tours like the ones detailed above offer a 24-hour-in-advance free cancellation, so you take no financial risk booking. Ask about free cancellation when buying your ticket. If you are interested in a horseback riding tour be sure to book it at least a few months in advance as they are very popular!

Tip #5: Impress your friends with quintessentially Icelandic souvenirs

The budget chain store Bonus stocks many unique Icelandic products, such as Omnom chocolate, Icelandic specialty teas, herbal sea salt blends, and licorice mixed with chocolate. At Bonus, you can pick up great, inexpensive gifts for your friends! Vinbuoin, the state-run liquor store, sells a fine selection of renowned Icelandic spirits, including Iceland’s signature tipple, Brennivin.

And if you like to sort through other folks’ debris for the hidden treasures, a special weekend market is held at Kolaportio in downtown Reykjavik where Icelanders come to sell off their unwanted goods when moving to a new house. You could find anything!

Restaurants & Eating Out

Because of Iceland’s geographical position and climate, vegetables and grains are rare in traditional foods, and many famous dishes focus on preserved seafood or meat. Also, food was scarce in yesteryears, so every part of an animal or fish was eaten. You’ll find many traditional meals involve fish or meat that is salted, smoked, dried, or fermented. Watch out for such culinary delights as baked sheep’s head and fermented shark.

Seafood restaurants are common throughout Iceland, and all serve “fish of the day”, which is usually salmon, monkfish, haddock, or cod. However, if you wish, you can seek out some of the more exotic options. Humar is a kind of lobster caught off the south coast of Iceland, renowned for its tender and tasty flesh.

It is served fried, baked or grilled, though it can also be found as a pizza topping! Plokkfishkur is a fish stew, made to the chef’s specific recipe but usually combining white fish with onions, potatoes, milk, and flour. Harofiskur is a snack you can buy in any grocery store. It is dried stockfish, eaten with butter or straight out of a bag.

Because it is difficult to grow wheat in Iceland, there are many traditional varieties of rye bread, like flatkaka, baked in thin disks on hot stones. One variety of rye bread you should try is rugbrauo, a sweet-tasting, dark bread.

The reason rugbrauo is so interesting for visitors to Iceland is that a common baking technique is to bury a dough-filled pot near one of the many hot springs, such as Fontana Hot Springs, and use geothermal heat to bake the bread. Rugbrauo baked that way is also called hyerabrauo (hot-spring bread).

Icelanders don’t only eat fish and rye bread. Sheep are the most common livestock in Iceland, so lamb is often on the menu. Sheep wander freely around the countryside, eating seaweed, grass, and berries, which tends to make lamb tender with a mild flavor.

Smoked lamb is called hangikjöt and is often served boiled during the winter holidays. Also watch out for varieties of meat you won’t see in most other countries, like puffin, horse, and whale. Despite international concern over puffins and whales, they are still commonly consumed in Iceland.

A meal on vacation isn’t complete without dessert. Popular local sweets include rugbrauosis (rye bread ice cream), pönnukökur (Icelandic pancakes), and snuour (cinnamon bread covered in caramel or chocolate). A dairy product unique to Iceland is skyr.

It is a kind of sour milk cheese eaten like yogurt and often sweetened and flavored with fruit or vanilla.

Nightlife & Entertainment

With long, cold nights throughout the winter, it’s no surprise Icelanders love their nightlife, and much of it is centered where most of the people live—Reykjavik. Because the capital is so small, most of the clubs and bars are within walking distance of one another. In fact, many are along one street, Laugavegur, the commercial artery of downtown.

Most social venues are informal and entrance fees rare. When Icelanders go out for the night, they tend to begin late, and many clubs and bars don’t get busy until after midnight. This is in part because alcohol in bars is expensive, so locals drink at home before setting out.

Many clubs and bars stay open as late as 5 am. Cocktail bars are a recent addition to Iceland’s nightlife, but with the booming tourist trade, they are rapidly expanding.

And don’t worry too much about safety at night. In 2019, the Institute for Economics and Peace in Sydney ranked Iceland the most peaceful nation on Earth for the 12 th year running. Crime rates in Reykjavik are probably lower than anywhere you have ever lived.

Getting Around

Iceland is a small country covering an area slightly smaller than Kentucky. If you wanted to drive from Reykjavik on the west coast to Faskruosfjorour on the east coast, the 425 miles route would take only 8½ hours.

However, because of its small population outside of the capital, you cannot rely on public transport to go sightseeing around the country or reach the best place to view the northern lights. This leaves you with two options: hiring a car or booking a coach tour, like the 3-day Golden Circle tour detailed above.

Within the capital and its immediate area, you do have more options: bus, taxi, bicycle, or walk. The public bus service is inexpensive and efficient, and you can ask for help to find the right bus from your hotel reception. Given that Reykjavik is so small a city, taxis are affordable.

If you want a little exercise, bicycle rentals are available in many hotels, and the city is crisscrossed by dedicated bicycle paths. If you decide to walk, make sure you wrap up well. The weather can deteriorate rapidly in Iceland.

Accommodations

Over the past few years, Iceland has seen a huge expansion in tourism. With a 378% increase since 2010, hotel rooms fill up quickly. Through Christmas and summer, hotels are usually fully booked. Since 228 of Iceland’s 359 thousand citizens live within the capital and its immediate hinterland, settlements throughout the rest of Iceland are small and rooms for visitors limited. Most hotels are in the capital.

You will probably find it most convenient to stay in Reykjavik. You will find a broad range of hotels there, it is near the airport, and many of the attractions along with most of the nightlife are found there or nearby. Many organized tours to other parts of Iceland and major tourist attractions set out from Reykjavik, such as most of the Northern Lights tours detailed above.

Within the downtown and central area of Reykjavik you will find a choice of luxury hotels, like the Hotel Borg downtown and The Icelandair Hotel Marina, overlooking the harbor. If you head a little more out of the center, you’ll find more affordable hostels, such as The Capital Inn and Bus Hostel Reykjavik .

There are some popular hotels outside of the capital near to tourist attractions, such as Hotel Skaftafell in the Vatnajökull National Park, which offers spectacular views of Iceland’s largest mountain, or Skyrhusid Guesthouse near Lake Jökulsarion in the south. Wherever you decide to stay, the important thing is to book in advance. If you don’t, you will miss out on the best rooms.

Iceland is not the place to go if you want year-round sunshine and dry weather. In fact, on 22 nd December there are only 4 hours of daylight, because that is the shortest day. That’s great if you want to see the Aurora Borealis, since it can only be seen during dark nights, but not so good for other sightseeing. In contrast, the longest day boasts 21 hours of daylight, 21 st June.

The “warm” summer period covers June, July, and August, with an average daily high of 55 0 F and a low of 46 0 F. Yes, 55 0 F is their summer high! Summers are short and cloudy. The winter period covers November through March, two months longer than summer, and is cold, wet, windy, and overcast, with frequent snow. The average daily high drops to 35 0 F in January with a low of 27 0 F.

If your main interest is the Northern Lights, you should go anytime September through March, because the sky is dark enough to view those fantastic electromagnetic displays. If the Aurora Borealis does not interest you, you’ll get the warmest weather and longer days from the end of June to mid-August.

Attractions

The Aurora Borealis is not the only unique and fascinating attraction in Iceland. The Land of Fire and Ice is the best place in the world to see and experience the majesty and power of two extremes in Nature: glaciers and volcanoes. These attractions are all part of what is called the “Golden Circle”. Taking a day tour of the Golden Circle with a guide is a great way to take in all of the best sights.

12 miles from KEF is the world-famous Blue Lagoon geothermal spa. Here you can laze in pools of hot, milky blue water heated by a lava flow. Nearby stands the Svartsengi Geothermal Power Plant, which uses superheated water from the lava flow to generate electricity and also provide heat for a municipal water heating system.

There are geothermal spas like the Blu Lagoon throughout Iceland, so wherever you choose to stay, you can find one near you and experience the power of molten rock.

If ice and Arctic landscapes interest you, head 140 miles east from Reykjavik to Vatnajökull National Park , which is centered on Vatnajökull glacier and the surrounding beautiful landscape. This park covers 14% of Iceland and is filled with glacial rivers and active volcanoes.

Vatnajökull glacier empties into the glacial lake of Jökulsarion in the south, where you can see 100-feet-tall icebergs freshly broken away from the glacier. Jökulsarion served as a setting in several major Hollywood movies. On your drive back to Reykjavik, you can see two beautiful waterfalls around Skogar. The first, Skogafoss, is an impressive waterfall and a popular destination for Icelandic day-trippers.

18 miles west of Skogafoss is picturesque Seljalandsfoss waterfall . A path allows sightseers to pass behind the curtain of water as it falls into the crystal-clear plunge pool.

If it’s man-made cultural and historical attractions you seek, you’ll find plenty to do and see around Reykjavik. The capital’s earliest history stretches back to 874, but it only became a true city in 1785.

Perhaps one of the most unique attractions is seeing the continental plates splitting apart at Silfra. Here the North American and Eurasian plates are separating. If you are daring you can take a snorkel tour of Silfra and see it for yourself!

Around Reykjavik, you’ll find an interesting assortment of museums and tourist attractions, like the National Museum of Iceland and the Reykjavik Maritime Museum.

A famous landmark visitors flock to see is the Hallgrimskirkja Church, which is the largest church in Iceland. This unique structure was designed by a local architect to resemble the glaciers and mountains of Iceland.

Tour Guides

The Small-Group Premium Northern Lights Tour from Reykjavik is our Editor's Choice for the best Northern Lights tours in Iceland.

Robert Baker

Related articles, the 5 best stonehenge tours from london [2024 reviews], the 5 best florence wine tours [2024 reviews], the 7 best vatican tours ⛪ [2024 reviews], the 5 best seine river dinner cruises [2024 reviews].

10 Best Northern Lights Tours in Iceland (Reykjavik)

Home | Travel | Europe | Iceland | 10 Best Northern Lights Tours in Iceland (Reykjavik)

Booking a Northern Lights tour in Iceland is the best way to increase your chances of seeing the famous aurora borealis. While it’s possible to see the Northern Lights in Iceland on your own, a guided tour will give you the most enjoyable experience since the guides can expertly predict the Northern Lights forecast .

Besides, there are several amazing Northern Lights tours from Reykjavik , so as long as you’re in the capital city, you’ll have lots of options to choose from. Just be sure to travel during the Northern Lights season so you get the most magnificent show possible!

We run photo tours to Iceland every year to enjoy this fascinating natural phenomenon, although the excursion is designed for landscape photographers. If you’re not an avid photographer, but you still want to go aurora hunting in Iceland, I highly recommend taking one of these aurora tours from Reykjavik :

• The best Northern Lights tour
• The cheapest Northern Lights tour
• Small group Northern Lights tour
• Private Northern Lights tour
• Best Northern Lights boat tour
• Blue Lagoon & Northern Lights tour
• Whale watching & Northern Lights tour
• South Coast & Sólheimajökull Glacier Northern Lights tour
• Golden Circle & Northern Lights tour
• Multi-day Northern Lights tours

1.  The best Northern Lights tour in Iceland

Without a doubt, this excursion  is the  best Northern Lights excursion in Iceland .

During this tour, an expert guide will take you to an area with zero light pollution so you can fully enjoy this natural spectacle. Along the way, you’ll learn about the Northern Lights, including curiosities and superstitions revolving around this unique phenomenon.

Once you arrive at your destination, you’ll have free time to take photos, walk around the area, or simply gaze in wonder at the Green Lady. Also, this tour includes round-trip bus transportation, making it one of the top excursions from Reykjavik, especially if you don’t plan on renting a car.

• Highlights : Northern Lights Observation
• Duration : 3 hours
• Number of participants : 50
• Price : $62/person

2. The cheapest Iceland Northern Lights tour from Reykjav ík

If you’re looking for another cheap Northern Lights tour in Iceland , I recommend booking this tour . It departs from Reykjavik and includes admission to the Northern Lights Center, a scientific museum all about the aurora borealis. It has all kinds of interactive exhibits that teach you what the Northern Lights are and how they form.

2. The cheapest Iceland Northern Lights tour from Reykjavík

If you take this tour, you’ll wait until nightfall to explore the best places to see the Northern Lights , as predicted by meteorologists and experts. Hopefully, there will be clear skies, but if you don’t have any luck seeing the aurora, you can retake the tour for free on another day. I recommend taking this tour on the first day of your trip, so you have time in your itinerary in case you need to retake it.

• Highlights : Admission to the Northern Lights Center and Northern Lights observation
• Duration : 4 hours
• Price : $55/person

3. Small group Icelandic Northern Lights tour from Reykjavik

A small group Northern Lights tour in Iceland is ideal for those who want to experience the aurora in a calmer, more exclusive setting. This tour is a great option since it departs from Reykjavik in a comfortable luxury minibus.

You’ll head to an area with zero light pollution and optimal weather conditions, creating the perfect environment to witness the dancing aurora. Be aware that you can only take this tour between September and April, and if you don’t have any luck seeing the Northern Lights the first time, you can retake the tour for free.

Moreover, this Iceland aurora tour includes admission to the Northern Lights Center, one of the coolest attractions in Reykjavik where you can learn more about this natural light show. You’ll also be able to enjoy light refreshments during the tour.

• Highlights : Admission to the Northern Lights Center and Northern Lights observation in a small group
• Number of participants : 18
• Price : $87/person

4. Private Northern Lights tour in Iceland from Reykjav ík

If you want to see the aurora in privacy but you prefer having a guide, consider this tour . It’s one of the best Northern Lights excursions from Reykjavik and it even includes hotel pick-up.

Once you board the bus, you’ll travel to the best viewing spot to see the Northern Lights, with optimal conditions and zero light pollution. Depending on the day, you may go to Thingvellir National Park, Hvalfjordur, or the Reykjanes Peninsula, all beautiful places to watch the Green Lady.

4. Private Northern Lights tour in Iceland from Reykjavík

Your guide will tell you all about this natural phenomenon and the legends surrounding it. You’ll have about an hour to marvel at the dancing lights, then you’ll be dropped off at your hotel. Without a doubt, this is the best private Northern Lights tour in Iceland , although I also recommend staying in one of Iceland’s Northern Lights hotels so you can continue enjoying the show.

• Highlights : Private Northern Lights Tour
• Number of participants : up to 3 people
• Price : $70/person

5. Best Northern Lights boat tour in Reykjavik

A Northern Lights cruise from Reykjavik is one of the most unique experiences, so I highly recommend it. While gliding along the sea, you’ll witness the Green Lady and the beautiful mountains and fjords in the background, so it’s guaranteed to be an unforgettable trip.

If this sounds good to you, then book this excursion , which begins at the port in Reykjavik. There, you’ll board the boat and sail along the coast of Iceland until you reach the point where you’ll have the highest chances of seeing the Northern Lights.

Keep in mind that this tour only operates if the weather conditions are favorable for sailing. We’ve always had luck during our trips, but if you run out of luck on your scheduled tour date, you can retake the excursion for free. This is the best Northern Lights boat tour in Reykjavik , so it’s definitely worth it!

• Highlights : Northern Lights Boat Tour
• Duration : 2.5 hours
• Number of participants : 200
• Price : $88/person

6. Blue Lagoon & Northern Lights tour from Reykjavik, Iceland

Another interesting aurora borealis tour in Iceland is this excursion , which includes a visit to the Blue Lagoon . Not only will you get to witness the spectacular Northern Lights show, but you’ll also experience Iceland’s geothermal waters.

At the Blue Lagoon, you can take a relaxing soak and enjoy one of the treatments offered here, like a silica mask. The waters are said to have health properties and benefits like smoother and firmer skin, so you’re sure to feel refreshed after your visit.

At night, you’ll take a guided tour to see the Northern Lights, and your destination will depend on that evening’s weather conditions. If you don’t have any luck, you can retake the tour on another day free of charge.

Finally, this Blue Lagoon and Northern Lights tour in Iceland includes all transfers, including to and from the Blue Lagoon, so you won’t have to worry about transportation.

• Highlights : Blue Lagoon admission and Northern Lights
• Duration : 8 hours
• Price : $217/person

7. Whale-watching and Northern Lights tour in Iceland

Among all the amazing things to do here, whale-watching in Iceland is our personal favorite. Did you know that you can combine this activity with a Northern Lights boat trip in Reykjavik ? This excursion is one of the most magical experiences, so I highly recommend it if you want to enjoy two unforgettable attractions in one tour.

During the trip, you’ll take a boat to an area commonly inhabited by minke and humpback whales, as well as dolphins and porpoises. Of course, remember that these are wild animals that live freely in the sea, so it’s not possible to predict their movements with 100% accuracy. That said, the tour operators have been in business for years, so they’re the best experts on scouting out these magnificent creatures.

Any time we’ve done this type of excursion, we’ve seen several species of cetaceans, so I’m sure you’ll have a great time. Be aware that you can retake the tour for free if you don’t have any luck, so it’s best to take this tour on your first day in Iceland.

This whale-watching and Northern Lights tour in Iceland includes an evening session to hunt the aurora among the mountains and fjords. It’s an incredible experience, so bring your camera!

• Highlights : Whale Watching and Northern Lights Boat Tour
• Duration : 6 hours
• Price : $167/person

8. Northern Lights tour through Iceland’s South Coast & S ólheimaj ökull Glacier

While visiting Reykjavik, you may want to discover other parts of Iceland, so consider this excursion to see the Northern Lights and some top attractions in the southern region of the island.

During this guided Northern Lights tour in Iceland , you’ll visit the Seljalandsfoss waterfall and the Sólheimajökull glacier. You’ll learn how the glacier formed, as well as other interesting facts about the area. One of the coolest parts of the tour was hearing the sound of the moving ice, which we thought was quite impressive.

8. Northern Lights tour through Iceland’s South Coast & Sólheimajökull Glacier

Other stops on this excursion include the black sand beach of Reynisfjara, the Reynisdrangar cliffs, and the Skógafoss waterfall, among other top sights in Iceland . After touring the southern coast and enjoying a warm dinner, you’ll begin your Iceland Northern Lights tour , heading to an area with the most optimal conditions to see the Green Lady.

• Highlights : Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, Sólheimajökull glacier, Reynisfjara black sand beach, and Northern Lights
• Duration : 16 hours
• Number of participants : 10
• Price : $220/person

9. Golden Circle and Northern Lights tour in Iceland

Another Northern Lights tour from Reykjavik that will pique your interest is this one , which includes a tour of the Golden Circle .

Exploring the Golden Circle is one of the best ways to discover this island country, which is known as the Land of Fire and Ice. You’ll see why as you visit sites like the Gullfoss waterfall and Thingvellir National Park, where you’ll be able to see the Strokkur geyser in action.

At night, you’ll depart from Reykjavik and spend a few hours hunting the aurora borealis in the sky. It’s a full itinerary, so this Golden Circle and Northern Lights tour in Iceland is one of the best excursions you can do if it’s your first time in the country.

• Highlights : Golden Circle and Northern Lights
• Duration : 9 hours
• Price : $115/person

10. Multi-day Northern Lights tours in Iceland from Reykjav ík

Renting a car in Iceland is the easiest way to see different places in the country, but if you don’t want to drive, you can take an organized tour.

10. Multi-day Northern Lights tours in Iceland from Reykjavík

There are even multi-day Northern Lights tours in Iceland in which you can see several attractions in one trip. These are the ones I recommend:

• 4-Day Northern Lights Tour : You’ll visit the Golden Circle, Iceland’s south coast, and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, as well as go hunting for the Northern Lights. Includes three nights of accommodation with breakfast.
• 6-Day Northern Lights Tour : You’ll go all the way around the island, passing through the Golden Circle, south Iceland, the East Fjords, and the Lake Mývatn geothermal area. You will also have time to enjoy the Northern Lights. This tour includes accommodation for five nights with breakfast.
• 8-Day Northern Lights Tour : You’ll take a tour around the island and discover the Golden Circle, south Iceland, the East Fjords, the Lake Mývatn geothermal area, and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. You’ll also see the Northern Lights. Includes seven nights of accommodation with breakfast.

These excursions are super convenient and thorough since they take care of transportation and accommodation and include guided Northern Lights tours in Iceland . So, if you don’t want to worry about anything, I recommend checking them out.

Price of Northern Lights tours in Iceland (Reykjav ík)

The price of a Northern Lights tour from Reykjavik varies depending on the size of the group, the duration, and any included activities or attractions. To make it easier for you to choose, here is a chart comparing the prices and important details for the best Northern Lights tours in Iceland :

I hope this guide helped you find the perfect aurora tour in Reykjavik ! Keep in mind that the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon affected by several factors like solar activity and cloud cover. If you book an excursion and it’s canceled due to poor weather conditions, or you take the tour but don’t see the Northern Lights, you can retake it on another day for free.

Therefore, I recommend booking your tour for the first day of your trip, so you have time to retake it. You could also take a multi-day trip to see the Northern Lights , which will grant you more time to witness this marvelous spectacle.

Finally, I recommend checking out our guide on how to photograph the Northern Lights so you can return home with some amazing memories. Also, our article on where to stay in Iceland has the best accommodation options, including places where you can see the aurora from your room.

Feel free to leave your questions or comment below; I’d love to hear from you! With that, I wish you a wonderful time during your Northern Lights tour in Iceland !

Ascen Aynat

2 replies on “ 10 Best Northern Lights Tours in Iceland (Reykjavik) ”

Myself and my friend are very much interested to go to escorted 8 days tour in Iceland to watch Northern lights in Fen 2024. Can you get in touch with me to organise it. Thank you

Hi, That sounds like a fantastic trip! You can organize that 8-day Northern Lights excursion by following the link and booking a spot.

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GET THE ULTIMATE free GUIDE TO PHOTOGRAPHING The Northern Lights

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NORTHERN LIGHTS TOUR

Tour highlights.

• Northern Lights - Going off the Beaten Path
• Small Group Experience
• Homemade hot chocolate made from real Icelandic chocolate
• Icelandic Pastries (Kleina!)
• Free Wi-Fi & Wool blankets to keep warm
• We will send a link with photos from the tour
• Drop-off back in Reykjavik
• Please Note: A decision whether we run the tour or not is made every day before 18:00

Tour Details

• Tour start time : 21:00 or 22:00 depending on which month you book.
• Pick-up start time : 30 minutes before departure.
• Duration : The tour is between 3-5 hours in total.
• Availability : From August 20th - April 20th
• Don't see Northern Lights? : No problem! We offer you as many retries as you need as long as there is availability!

Tour description

The Northern Lights are an incredible natural phenomenon and we definitely understand why this is on the top of the to-do list for so many of our guests. For the highest possible chance of experiencing the aurora, it can be a fantastic idea to do a guided tour, as you will be led by a local Northern Lights expert into the night.

WHY I THINK YOU WILL LOVE THIS TOUR! 🧡

If you've made your way all the way to Iceland - then I believe it's a MUST for you to experience the magical Northern Lights.

But finding the Northern Lights can be tricky, which is why I recommend all travelers and friends on their way to Iceland to book this tour. Since you'll have a northern lights expert monitoring the forecast and will take you to the spot each particular night which has the highest chance of seeing the breathtaking Northern Lights in all their glory - a truly once in a lifetime experience.

Aurora is always a game of chance but our guide Arni may have made them come out by sheer willpower. He was super optimistic and kept going until we saw them, which was amazing. Just when everyone truly lost hope we got to see them. Arni made sure we all got enough time to see them, even if it made the trip go past its usual time window. This tour was awesome (the hot choc was also a great treat while we waited).

Had an amazing time on the tour ! Ragnar made the whole trip special! He was so passionate , knowledgeable, and enthusiastic telling all us all the amazing insights about Iceland and each location (#madonna). The whole day was so fun and was one of the highlights of my time in Iceland! He did a great job making our whole group feel included. I hope to do a tour again with this company soon. Ragnar thank you again ! You are amazing! :)

Great tour for value. Northern lights are partially luck and boy did we get lucky!!! Our guide was awesome, hot chocolate and the cinnamon buns the cherry on top.

Tour was great. We were lucky to see the lights on the first day. Daniel was great your guide. Funny stories and great photography. On top of it, had amazing hot chocolate in -15 degrees with cinnamon buns. Would definitely recommend this to anyone who wanna see the lights and get great pics.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Full Refund / Cancellation Policy If there are any changes to your trip to Iceland, it's always possible to either put your booking on hold (bookings never expire) or reschedule to your new travel dates. We also offer full refunds if you cancel your booking with more than 24 hours prior to your tour :) All bookings cancelled within 24 hours of the tour departure are not refundable. If the tour is operated then a refund is no longer possible. However, if you don't see the lights on the tour, you will have unlimited retries to rebook again until you see them.
• Is seeing the Northern lights guaranteed? The lights are a natural phenomenon and beyond our control. They are visible in Iceland from late August through April but visibility is subject to light activity and cloud coverage We cannot guarantee sightings but have an amazing team that will try their absolute best to find the perfect spot for you to see them :)
• What sort of camera is used? We use Sony Alpha7 III and lens is 14mm 1.8F Sony G. This is the best Northern Lights lens on the market and Sony A7III is one of the best cameras you can use for Northern Lights photographing.
• How big are the groups? We offer a small group experience on all of our tours. No group is larger than 19 as the largest vehicle used is a 19-seater!
• What sort of vehicle is used on the tour? We use 19-seater Mercedes Sprinters - with big leather seats. It’s a great way to travel around Icelandic nature! You will not be disappointed with this luxury ride. There are no large 70 seater coaches.
• What if we don´t see the lights, can we go again? If the tour is operated then a refund is no longer possible. However, if you don't see the lights on the tour, you will have unlimited retries to rebook again until you see them. In order to re-book your tour, please contact the tour operators directly at your earliest convenience :)
• Can I book a private tour? Yes, it is of course possible to arrange a private tour! Private tours are very popular with larger groups of friends and families. You can find the link to it here: www.wakeupreykjavik.com/tour/northern-lights-private
• When does pick up start? The tour starts at 9:00pm or 10:00pm (depending on what month you book). Pick up starts 30 minutes prior. Please be ready at your designated pick up spot and we hope you have an amazing time on the tour :)
• Will the tour be cancelled if the lights are not visible? A decision whether we run the tour or not is made every day before 18:00. If the conditions are poor and it is unlikely to see the lights they cancel the tour. Then you have the option of either getting a full refund or rebook for another night that suits you best without any additional cost.
• When will I know if the lights will be visible? Here in Iceland, we have a pretty good Northern Lights forecast that shows us 3 days ahead, that is the most reliable one but even with that one, seeing the lights can be very tricky and sometimes we don´t know until the day off if we will be able to see it or not.
• When should I book this tour? This tour is highly likely to sell out so we recommend booking sooner rather than later. Regarding what time during your vacation you should book, we recommend booking this tour early on in your trip, that way you are maximising your chances of seeing the lights to the fullest and if you are not lucky on your first evening, you have the rest of your stay to try again!

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Northern Lights Tour

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"Amazing Northern lights tour"

Tour Highlights

• Maximize your chances of seeing the northern lights on this evening tour
• Your guide takes you to the best places to spot the elusive phenomenon
• If you don‘t see any lights, you can re-book again for another night free of charge
• Seasonal tour available from September to mid-April

What’s included

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Northern Lights Quest of Iceland

Starting from $2,845

• The Experience
• 6 Days In 2024
• 6 Days In 2025

Journey on a quest to see the famous Northern Lights

Trip details.

Tour start Reykjavik

Tour end Reykjavik

Available Promotions for this tour

Booking window

01 Jun 2024 - 30 Jun 2024

Trip Itinerary

Day 1 Reykjavík Panoramic Tour | Perlan Observation Deck | Northern Lights Quest

Day 2 golden circle | secret lagoon | friðheimar tomato farm, day 3 lava center | skógar folk museum | skógafoss waterfall | black sand beach, day 4 jökulsárlón glacier lagoon | diamond beach | skaftafell wilderness area, day 5 seljalandsfoss waterfall | reykjavík | the blue lagoon, day 6 tour ends in reykjavík, where you’ll stay.

Fosshotel Reykjavik Reykjavik, Iceland

Fosshotel Reykjavík, Iceland’s largest hotel stands prominently in Reykjavík’s business district,...

Stracta Hotel Hella, Iceland

Stracta is a family owned hotel located on the south coast of Iceland, about an hour drive from...

Fosshotel Nupar Kirkjubæjarklaustur, Iceland

Located off the Route 1 highway, Fosshotel Nupar offers panoramic views of Vatnajokull’s lava...

Inclusive package with no hidden extras

What's included?

• Full daily breakfast and many meals*
• Transportation (Buses, shuttles & ferries)
• Welcome drinks with your group
• Free Wi-Fi on luxury coaches
• All entrance fees to attractions
• Comprehensive travel itinerary and documents

*Breakfast is not included on Day 1

Our welcome gift to you

• A travel backpack
• Travel adapter
• Rain poncho
• Luggage strap and tags
• Documents wallet

A hidden gem

We're thrilled to offer this Northern Lights Quest tour - brand new for 2020! We think our guests will love hunting for the Northern Lights as they see so many of Iceland's highlights and hidden gems.

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Fosshotel Reykjavik, Reykjavik

Fosshotel Reykjavík, Iceland’s largest hotel stands prominently in Reykjavík’s business district, only a short walk from the main shopping area. Here, from the heart of the city, you can easily explore Reykjavík's magnificent architecture, captivating history, vibrant markets and culture. With 16 floors, many of our rooms offer magnificent views of the city and the bay area. Unwind at the Beer Garden with local Icelandic draught beer and enjoy select dining at Fosshotel Reykjavík's restaurant.

Fosshotel Reykjavik Exterior

• 24-hour Front Desk
• Business Center
• Coffee Shop
• Disabled Facilities
• Dry Cleaning
• Fitness Center
• Laundry Facilities
• Wifi in Public Areas (Complimentary)
• Cable/Satellite Television
• Daily Maid Service
• In-Room Wifi (Complimentary)
• Luggage Racks
• Private Bathroom
• Room Service
• Work Desk & Lamp

Reception Area

Haust Restaurant

Standard Double Room

Double Tower Bedroom

Standard Bathroom

View from hotel room

Haust Restaurant Bar

Stracta Hotel, Hella

Stracta is a family owned hotel located on the south coast of Iceland, about an hour drive from Reykjavík and close to many of the most spectacular natural wonders on the island. The second-floor dining room features stunning views of the beautiful nature that surrounds the hotel such as Eyjafjallajökull and Hekla. Stracta Hotel is an ideal place to explore the Northern Lights. The lights around the hotel are specially designed and face down to avoid light pollution. Our guests can stay in the hot tubs in the garden and enjoy the fabulous view of the sky. They also offer a Northern Lights wake up call, so that you'll never miss the splendor of the auroras.The view around Stracta Hotel is one of the best views in Iceland, as on a clear day guests can see the Westman Islands to the south, the volcanoes Hekla and Eyjafjallafjökull with their glaciers to the east and the mountains of the Reykjanes peninsula to the west.

Stracta Hotel Exterior

• Wifi in Public Areas (Paid)

Stracta Hotel Sauna

Stracta Hotel Coffee Shop

Stracta Hotel Reception Desk

Stracta Hotel Bedroom

Fosshotel Nupar, Kirkjubæjarklaustur

Located off the Route 1 highway, Fosshotel Nupar offers panoramic views of Vatnajokull’s lava fields, mountains and glaciers. Skaftafell National Park is 28 miles away. Each heated guest room at Fosshotel Nupar has a work desk and private bathroom with shower. Some rooms include a seating area. Guests can enjoy Icelandic dishes at the in-house restaurant. The bar is ideal for a relaxing drink in the evening. Staff can help arrange guided area tours during summer. 

Fosshotel Nupar

• Coffee & Tea-making Facilities in Room
• Soap/Hair Products

Twin Bedroom

Fosshotel Nupar - Exterior

Breakfast Area

Double Bedroom

View from Hotel

See what people are saying about this trip

Tracey ann keyes.

It was well worth the price. I loved the trip.

Jessica M Corson

I loved everything about this tour and company!

CIE Tours Customer

While not a cheap trip I thought was worth it due to Iceland being such a fantastic place to visit.

Anthony Delagarza

Worth every penny. Loved the experience.

Nancy Breier

More than I wanted to spend but worth it.

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The Inclusive Advantage

Get more without spending more. CIE Tours includes every experience and most meals so you won't be hit with hidden expenses.

Price: kr. 6.499

• Location: Reykjavík
• Length: 3.5 hrs
• Availability: Aug - Apr

Northern Lights Tour Iceland

See the glory of the northern lights in Iceland! Unforgettable experience!

Our tour takes you to see a spectacular phenomenon that can be seen from late August to mid-April. The northern lights, also known as the aurora borealis, are caused by the interaction of particles from the sun with the upper atmosphere near the Magnetic Pole .

Why take a guided tour to see the northern lights in Iceland?

Choosing a guided tour increases your chances of seeing the northern lights in Iceland. Our team of experts reviews and studies the weather, locations, and aurora forecast on a daily basis to determine if the odds are in our favor.

The Northern Lights Tour Iceland is weather-dependent and sightings are not guaranteed. However, you will experience Icelandic nature during the night, the Milky Way, stars, moon, clouds, and total darkness. Please note that indicated return times can vary.

If you don‘t see any northern lights during this tour, you are invited to join the tour again, free of charge.

Passengers can buy waffles and hot drinks on-site, at an extra cost, when available, to enjoy while looking up into the sky.* *Waffles and hot drinks are only available on the 21:00 departure.

Where do we go to see the northern lights in Iceland?

Our experts decide where the best location is each night so the exact route is not known in advance. One of the most important factors is that we go away from the city lights. Based on the weather and aurora forecast, we decide if it is worth going at all. If yes, our experts decide on the best place to go.

What to expect on your northern lights tour:

It may be cold outside even though our buses are warm and comfortable. You will have plenty of time to take photos and therefore we recommend that you dress warmly and wear sturdy shoes. We recommend three layers, a cap, gloves, warm socks, and a warm jacket.

Despite all our efforts, we cannot guarantee that you will see the aurora. If we do NOT see northern lights on the tour, passengers can rebook for another evening.

When we go on the tour and we do not see the northern lights, a refund is not possible.

Your rebook ticket is only valid for you, you can not assign your ticket to someone else.

The tours are planned using larger buses, so large groups. Small group tours are also available – see “Northern Lights – Small Group Tour”.

You will get some basic information from our guides on how to get the best pictures of the lights.

Our guides are experts in the aurora, where to hunt them down, and how to take pictures of the lights, so please do not hesitate to ask them about the northern lights or for assistance with your photography.

Children are welcome on the tour, however, this can be a long and cold night and therefore it may not be suitable for children younger than 6 years old.

Please note that looking for the aurora is a hunting tour. Civilization is left behind (including conventional WCs) in order to increase our chances of seeing the aurora. Auroras are best seen outdoors at night in Iceland’s winter. Your personal well-being on the tour depends on your own clothing.

Want to know more about our Golden Circle Day Tours

FAQ about this northern lights tour:

How can I rebook? Visit www.re.is/rebook and log your booking number to choose a new date.

Why was the tour canceled tonight? A team of experts considers the weather and aurora forecast every day to see if the conditions are favorable or not. If the odds are against the aurora being visible for some reason, we cancel the tour.

If we cancel the tour and you are unable to attend at a later date you can get a refund.

We did not see the lights on the tour yesterday and we are not able to join the tour again during our stay now. Can we then have a refund? If you were on the tour a refund is not possible. However, your ticket is valid for 2 years for rebooking. Save your booking number and visit www.re.is/rebook to choose a new date.

How far away from the city do you go and where? The average time heading out to the first stop is usually within an hour. The direction of the tour is decided shortly before departure and based on the weather forecast.

They took my voucher on the tour last night so I don’t have my booking number. If you don’t have your voucher in your email and no information about your booking number, please call us and have the information ready on when you were originally booked and under which name your tour was booked.

When is the best time of the year to see the lights? From late August until mid-April.

Why do I not see the lights as in the photos? The human eye usually sees the northern lights as faint colors of light green, grey, and white. Camera sensors do not have our eye limitations as they have long exposure features and other factors.

Additional information:

Remember to dress warmly.

This tour depends on weather and activity, so sightings are not guaranteed.

Indicated return times can vary due to road & weather conditions.

If you don’t see any lights on the tour you can re-book again for free.

The tour is scheduled daily, however, we do cancel the tour if the forecast for the weather- and the aurora is not promising enough. When a tour is canceled, those who are booked can change their booking to another date or get a full refund, given that they have not been on the tour before.

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Useful Links

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Golden Circle Iceland is operated by eTravel ehf which is a licensed tour operator founded in 2014

Northern Lights tour packages in Iceland

Wintry Iceland makes the perfect backdrop for seeking out the Northern Lights. On an Iceland Northern Lights tour with Iceland Tours, you get places to stay, local transport, and loads of chances to spot the Aurora. And there’s plenty to keep you busy in the day too.

• Chances to chase down the Northern Lights
• Daily breakfast at your accommodation
• 24/7 helpline whilst you’re in Iceland
• Winter adventure activities available to add

20 trips found

Iceland Ultimate Day Tripper with Northern Lights

Combine a stay in wintry Reykjavík with guided day tours into the frosted countryside.

Christmas Wonders of Iceland Group Adventure

Spend Christmas in Iceland and glimpse waterfalls, glaciers, volcanoes, and more

Northern Lights Ring Road Group Adventure

Explore jaw-dropping landscapes and learn about local culture from an expert guide.

Winter Wonders of Iceland – Big Group Adventure

Set off on a wintry adventure around the south coast.

Winter Wonders of Iceland – Small Group Adventure

Discover top attractions in winter with a local guide.

Active Iceland Fire and Ice Expedition

Experience glaciers up close and walk in the footsteps of lava.

Iceland Ring Road Winter Group Adventure

Travel around this winter wonderland with an expert guide.

Ice Adventure Day Tripper with Northern Lights

The super customizable one.

Active Iceland Fire and Ice Expedition with Northern Lights

Immerse yourself in jaw-dropping natural beauty

Ice Cave & Golden Circle Day Tripper with Northern Lights

Experience the best of Icelandic winter.

Iceland Thrill and Relax Winter Combo

Experience ice caving, snowmobiling, chasing the aurora, and more.

Golden Circle Day Tripper with Northern Lights

The perfect customizable winter escape.

Showing 12 of 20 trips

About our Iceland Northern Lights vacations

Iceland is the perfect wintry playground for a different kind of escape. On a Northern Lights trip to Iceland, you can spend the day surrounded by incredible nature and while away the nights spotting the Aurora. With these Iceland package holidays, the Northern Lights is just one reason to book. We arrange everything for you, including accommodation, local transport, and activities. That way you can focus on hunting down the majestic norðurljós (Aurora Borealis). We also offer a range of travel styles, including self-drive, multi-day bus tours, and more. So you can find the perfect trip for you, one you’ll remember for a lifetime!

• Secure your trip today with just a 5% deposit
• Easily cancel or amend your booking
• Get great value for money across all our trips
• Receive a detailed itinerary packed with suggestions

Don’t take our word for it

See what hundreds of fellow travelers have to say about their trips with Iceland Tours.

FAQs about Iceland Northern Lights tour packages

What are the northern lights.

The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, are a natural phenomenon found in Iceland and other Arctic countries. They’re caused by the solar wind – streams of particles given off by the Sun – interacting with the Earth’s magnetic field.

You’ll notice them as colorful ribbons of blue, green, purple, and sometimes red light dancing across the sky. They’re a breathtaking sight and one that’ll stick in your mind.

Find out more about them in this guide to the Northern Lights .

When can you see the Northern Lights in Iceland?

The Aurora are actually there all year round, but to be able to see them you need darkness. This means you’ll want to visit in the winter months of October to March to maximize your chances of seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland.

They start to become visible in the fall , from the very end of August onwards, and can be spotted as late as April , during spring in Iceland . The only thing is the nights are shorter, so there’s less pure darkness, meaning it can be trickier to see the Aurora during that time.

Luckily, there’s plenty to do in Iceland in winter. It’s a great time to visit, Northern Lights or not!

Where is the best place to see the Northern Lights in Iceland?

Any spot with low levels of light pollution should be good for hunting the Aurora. To find one, you’ll need to head out into the countryside, away from the city lights.

Of course, the Northern Lights are even more gobsmacking if you’re standing in an incredible landscape. Find out all about the best places to see the Northern Lights in Iceland .

You can also join Northern Lights tours led by experienced tour guides. They’ll take you out to an ideal hunting location and give you photography tips! You can even join the next excursion for free if you don’t spot them the first time around.

What is the best weather for seeing the Northern Lights?

To see this natural light show, you need 3 things:

• Clear conditions
• A dark night sky
• High levels of solar activity

Whilst you’re in Iceland, make sure to keep your eye on the weather forecasts for the right conditions. The weather doesn’t affect the intensity of the lights themselves, but you won’t be able to see them if there’s cloud cover.

If you get the right conditions, you might be lucky to enough to spot the magical Northern Lights twirling overhead.

How do you take pictures of the Northern Lights?

The Northern Lights are best seen with your own eyes, but it’s definitely possible to take a great picture of them with the right gear. You’ll need an SLR camera or a phone that allows you to take long exposures.

For the lights to show up on film, you should adjust the exposure time on your camera to at least 30 seconds or even a few minutes. It’s also worth bringing a tripod to keep the image nice and steady.

Capturing the lights on camera can make them look more vivid. With a bit of trial and error, you can get that jaw-dropping snap!

What else can you do on an Iceland Northern Lights vacation?

The Northern Lights season falls during Icelandic winter, when there is a whole bunch of exciting stuff to see and do:

• Explore glittering ice caves under the surface of a glacier
• Marvel at icicle-clad waterfalls on the south coast
• Relax and unwind in the warming hot springs
• Watch the Strokkur geyser erupt on the Golden Circle route
• Join a glacier snowmobiling or hiking tour
• See icebergs drift out to sea at Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon
• Spot snow-capped mountains in the distance
• Go whale watching off the coast of North Iceland
• Walk between the tectonic plates in Þingvellir National Park
• Dive into culture at Reykjavík’s museums and galleries

For even more ideas, see this guide to Iceland winter must-sees and must-dos .

What’s the weather like in Iceland in Northern Lights season?

In Iceland in winter, you can expect to see snow and ice on the mountaintops and on the ground. You’ll also feel a wintry wind, so make sure to wrap up warm!

Temperatures are low too, but not as low as you might expect. In December in Reykjavík for example, the average is around 1°C (34°F). It’ll be a few degrees colder in the countryside though.

The weather in Iceland turns on a dime. So don’t worry if the sky is looking overcast, it probably won’t be long until it clears up.

On these chilly winter nights, it’s lovely to stew in the Blue Lagoon or a local ‘hot pot’ (hot tub) after a day’s exploring. There are also plenty of natural hot springs if you’re after a wilder experience.

What’s included with your Iceland Northern Lights trips?

We offer a wide range of Northern Lights tours in Iceland. With all of our trips, you get:

• Accommodation
• Local transport
• Detailed itinerary

What’s more, all of the bus tour packages on this page include a Northern Lights excursion, with the chance to go out again if you don’t spot the Aurora.

Some of these packages also include activities such as ice caving or lava caving . Use the filters above to find these adventure-packed trips.

How do I book my trip with Iceland Tours?

Start by exploring the trips above. There are plenty of different ways to travel, including self-drive tours , multi-day tours from Reykjavík , guided group tours , and private tours .

On a self-drive trip, you can set your own pace and stop as little or as often as you like. This means you have the freedom to spend hours chasing down the Northern Lights if you want to.

On a multi-day trip, you’ll be joining different bus tours from Reykjavík each day. This includes a Northern Lights excursion on one evening. And you get the chance to go out again if you don’t catch the lights.

On a privately guided trip, your driver-guide will take you around all the main attractions. This also means you’ll get to chase the Northern Lights in a lesser-visited spot and get tips from a local pro!

Not sure how long your trip should be? Check out this guide to how many days you need in Iceland in winter .

Can I customize my Northern Lights trip?

Absolutely! With Iceland Tours, it’s easy for you to choose your preferred rental car (self-drive trips only) and accommodation level.

You can also extend your Iceland Aurora tour with extra nights before or after. You can add excursions on these days to see even more of Iceland’s incredible wintry landscapes, or simply chill in town. And you can make all of these changes yourself at checkout.

If you want to customize your trip further, you can get in touch with us and we’ll be happy to help. Please note a customization fee applies in this case, see our terms and conditions for details.

When should I book my vacation?

It’s good to book your Iceland Northern Lights vacation a few months in advance. That way, you have plenty of time to get ready. This also means you can secure your trip with a low deposit of just 5%.

We accept bookings up to a week before your planned start date. If you book with less than 30 days’ notice though, you would need to pay the full trip price when you book.

Booking ahead is also a good idea to ensure there is good availability for your planned travel dates. Places can be limited, especially for Christmas and New Year’s tours , so don’t delay!

What should I pack for my Northern Lights trip?

Make sure you stay warm and comfortable in Iceland’s wintry weather by taking these things with you:

• Sturdy walking boots
• Warm winter coat
• Cozy thermal layers, such as sweaters and fleeces
• Waterproof trousers
• Wooly scarf, hat, and gloves
• Sunglasses (for low winter sun)
• Moisturizer and lip balm
• Swimming gear

The humidity in Iceland is low all year round, but especially in winter. Moisturizer will help keep your skin soft and comfortable.

It’s a good idea to throw in a pair of sunglasses, particularly if you’re driving. The winter sun tends to stay fairly close to the horizon.

Find out more about what to pack for Iceland in wintertime .

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Learn how to easily plan your dream trip to Iceland with helpful guides and tips!

10 Best Iceland Northern Lights Tours Worth Your Money

June 26, 2020 //  by  Iceland Trippers //   Leave a Comment

Are you looking for the best Iceland northern lights tours? Luckily for you, this guide has all of the best northern lights tours in Iceland .

While Iceland is filled with amazing things to see during the day, including waterfalls , hot springs , and glaciers , the country is just as beautiful at night, thanks to the northern lights . Also known as the Aurora Borealis, the northern lights are beautiful waves of green, blue, and sometimes red that flow through the night sky.

Scientifically, the northern lights are solar particles from the sun’s solar wind that emit brilliant colors when they collide with the particles found in the Earth’s atmosphere.

The best time to see the northern lights in Iceland is from late fall to early spring. And the best way to see these stunning waves of color is to take one of the Iceland northern lights tours.

After all, having someone with all of the local insight about the northern lights will be particularly helpful. Don’t forget to check out our Tips For Photographing The Northern Lights!

Get a FREE printable “Hidden Gems In Iceland” E-book by joining our private  Iceland Facebook Group  and share your photos and ask for tips and tricks.

Why Take A Northern Lights Tour In Iceland?

There are many reasons why you should take one of the Iceland northern lights tours. First of all, if you drive yourself, you have to focus a good amount of energy on driving.

Depending on the time of year, Iceland’s roads can be slick with ice, which means you really can’t just stare at the northern lights as you drive. As a matter of fact, if you do choose to drive to see the northern lights, there’s a good chance that you’ll make one of these seven mistakes while driving in Iceland .

If you take a tour of the northern lights, however, you won’t have to worry about those mistakes. You won’t be responsible for driving, so you can just enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Another reason to take one of the Iceland northern lights tours is because they aren’t all that expensive at the end of the day. You can find tours to see the northern lights as low as $40 to $50 per person! While there are, of course, more expensive tours, if you’re on a budget, a tour of Iceland’s northern lights is still doable!

Finally, the best reason to take a tour of the northern lights in Iceland is for the local knowledge. There’s a good chance that your guide during the northern lights tour will be an Iceland local. Consequently, he or she will know all the best places and the best tips to see the northern lights. If you want to see the Northern Lights Near Reykjavik , this is a great option!

Maybe he or she will even have a ton of fun facts to whip out about Iceland’s northern lights. If you try to see the northern lights on your own, you might struggle a bit more than you need to. Instead, skip the struggle of catching the elusive colorful curtains in the sky and take one of the Iceland northern lights tours!

Northern Lights Bus Tour From Reykjavik [4 Hours]

Most people who take northern lights tours from Reykjavik take a bus tour. It’s very convenient, and it’s more affordable than some of the more adventurous transportation alternatives on this list.

As with all of the best northern lights tours in Iceland, the tour guides on this bus tour from Reykjavik follow the meteorologists’ predictions for the best views of the northern lights each night.

Who knows where this amazing adventure will take you in Iceland? And after watching the turquoise lights snake through the sky, this tour also grants you admission to the Aurora Museum in Reykjavik, where you can learn even more about this special phenomenon.

Book Here: Northern Lights Bus Tour From Reykjavik

Northern Lights Cruise From Reykjavik [2 Hours]

While most people opt to take a bus to see the northern lights, you can be a little different and take a boat instead. This northern lights cruise departs from Reykjavik Harbor and heads into Faxaflói Bay for a spectacular view of the Aurora Borealis. Be sure to bring warm clothing and maybe even a blanket to ward off that chill ocean breeze and frosty night air.

Just as a note, many people have reported it’s more difficult to capture pictures of the northern lights while on a boat, due to the constant rocking.

Book Here: 2-Hour Northern Lights Cruise From Reykjavik

Northern Lights And The Golden Circle [9 Hours]

While the northern lights are fantastic on their own, many Iceland northern lights tours combine this natural phenomenon with other Iceland attractions. For example, this northern lights tour also includes the Golden Circle .

The Golden Circle is one of the most beautiful drives in all of Iceland. With Thingvellir National Park, the Geysir geyser, and Kerid Crater, the Golden Circle is filled with breathtaking natural landscapes.

As one of the most magnificent national parks in Iceland , Thingvellir National Park boasts many coveted titles, including UNESCO World Heritage Site and Game of Thrones filming location . While there, you can go for a dive in the Silfra Fissure, visit Thingvellir Church, or simply take in the beautiful scenery.

Situated in the Haukadalur Valley is the Geysir geyser. This powerful geyser shoots water an average 60 feet high, with reports claiming that the water has reached over 130 feet high!

Lastly, the Golden Circle is home to Kerid Crater. This volcanic caldera is streaked with red and green before pooling at a brilliant blue lake at the bottom. You can even walk the entire perimeter of the caldera or trek down to the lake, if you would like.

Simply put, this Northern Lights tour includes both the beauty of the northern lights and of the Golden Circle.

Book Here: Aurora Borealis & Golden Circle

Northern Lights And South Coast Small Group [17 Hours]

Visitors to Iceland often find themselves debating if they should visit the Golden Circle or the South Coast . Just like the Golden Circle, the South Coast is filled with some of Iceland’s most amazing landscapes, including Seljalandsfoss, Solheimajokull Glacier, and Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach. So why not tie in these stunning sights with this northern lights and South Coast tour ?

The South Coast is dotted with some of Iceland’s best waterfalls. While Seljalandsfoss is one, this part of Iceland is also home to Haifoss, Skogafoss, Kvernufoss, and Gljufabui. Similarly, the South Coast is filled with glaciers, including Solheimajokull Glacier and Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon.

Unlike the waterfalls and glaciers, Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach is a standalone black sand beach on the South Coast. Filled with obsidian sand and towering basalt columns, Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach is one of the best black sand beaches in Iceland .

As an added bonus, this particular norther lights tour is a small group tour. This means that you’ll easily be able to ask your guide as many questions as you want, while also embracing a level of flexibility that you wouldn’t be able to get with a larger group tour.

Book Here: South Coast & Northern Lights Small Group Winter Adventure

Blue Lagoon And Northern Lights Tour [8 Hours]

The Blue Lagoon may be Iceland’s most popular tourist attraction – so why not combine it with a view of the northern lights with this Blue Lagoon and northern lights tour from Reykjavik !

The Blue Lagoon is the most popular natural hot spring in Iceland. Between the striking blue color and the steady 102-degree-Fahrenheit temperature, it’s no wonder why this Iceland attraction draws in thousands of visitors every year.

Plus, it’s the perfect activity to do right before seeing the northern lights. Get yourself all warmed up before braving the chilly night for the Aurora Borealis.

Book Here: Blue Lagoon And Northern Lights Tour From Reykjavik

Secret Lagoon And Northern Lights Tour [6 Hours]

If you’re looking for a hot spring that’s a little less tourist-filled, consider taking a northern lights tour that includes the Secret Lagoon instead! While the Secret Lagoon isn’t all that much of a secret, you’ll feel like you’ve become an insider, because you’ll definitely see more locals than tourists at the Secret Lagoon.

As the oldest swimming pool in Iceland, the Secret Lagoon holds a special place. While the Secret Lagoon is manmade, the heated water is all-natural from the ever-present geothermal activity in Iceland. The water hovers at a toasty 100 degrees Fahrenheit to 104 degrees Fahrenheit.

This tour combines the warmth and relaxation from a day at the Secret Lagoon with a chilly night filled with colors in the sky.

Book Here: Iceland Secret Lagoon, Dinner, and Northern Lights Hunt From Reykjavik

Northern Lights Luxury Yacht Cruise From Reykjavik [2.5-3 Hours]

While I’ve already recommended a northern lights tour on a boat, this option is a little different: a northern lights tour on a yacht . Sail from the Reykjavik Old Harbor into Faxa Bay aboard a luxurious, modern vessel, before seeing the colorful swaths of painted light known as the Aurora Borealis dance through the sky.

When aboard the yacht in Faxa Bay, you may even see the northern lights illuminate some of the best things to do in Reykjavik . See the colorful lights shimmer on the stainless steel of the Sun Voyager sculpture and bask in the beauty of the HARPA Concert Hall.

Book Here: Northern Lights Luxu r y Yacht Cruise From Reykjavik

Northern Lights And Snaefellsnes Peninsula Tour [2 Days]

When most people think about one of the many Iceland northern lights tours, they think about ones that start after dark and end in a few hours. But this northern lights adventure , which is combined with a visit to the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, lasts a whole two days!

While the Snaefellsnes Peninsula has a lot to offer, by far the most popular thing to do in the area is check out Kirkjufell Mountain. Kirkjufell Mountain, and its accompanying waterfall known as Kirkjufellsfoss, create one of the most unique landscapes in all of Iceland (which is saying something, since Iceland is filled with otherworldly landscapes). As a matter of fact, Kirkjufell Mountain is the most photographed mountain in all of Iceland!

Book Here: Iceland Two-Day Northern Lights And Snaefellsnes Adventure

Northern Lights And Langjokull Glacier Snowmobile Tour [4 Hours]

So far on this list of Iceland northern light tours, I’ve included tours by bus, by boat, and by yacht. For those with an adventurous heart, I’ve also decided to add another option: by snowmobile .

Before you get to see the northern lights, you’ll start your tour by navigating your snowmobile to the Langjokull Glacier. While most of the excitement of Langjokull Glacier is found beneath the surface within its ice tunnels, you’ll still get to enjoy the view of this massive glacier from above.

Then, it’s time to strap on the snowmobile headlights and drift further into the snow-covered landscape. By heading further from the lights of cities and towns, your view of the northern lights will be even more spectacular. Once you and your guide have reached the ideal lookout point, simply gaze at the swaying streaks of color decorating the night sky. Then, hop back on your snowmobile and zoom back to Gullfoss.

Book Here: Northern Lights Snowmobile Tour From Gullfoss

Northern Lights Small Group Tour [3 Hours]

Sometimes you don’t want anything fancy. You don’t want other stops or a ton of other visitors on your northern lights tour. You simply want to relax and watch nature’s colors dance across the night sky. If that sounds like the northern lights viewing experience that you would enjoy, consider booking this northern lights small group tour .

During the three hours of this northern lights tour, you’ll be transported in a small, comfortable minibus. And as you wait for the elusive Aurora Borealis to make an appearance, warm yourself with a toasty cup of hot chocolate and a few ginger biscuits.

Book Here: Small Group Northern Lights Tour From Reykjavik

These Iceland northern lights tours will have you packing your bags to see the colorful streamers of light flit across the sky! These are some of the best northern lights tours in Iceland, so we hope you enjoy them! Please let us know in the comments section if you have any questions or just want to share what you think are some of the top things to do in Iceland.

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Northern Lights in Iceland: How, When & Where to See Auroras (+Best Tours)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: September 12, 2023

Are you thinking of visiting Iceland in winter and wondering where and how to see the Northern Lights in Iceland? This guide should answer all your questions: best time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland, best places & top tips on how to actually see them. Find out!

I run a Facebook group for Iceland and Scandinavia travel and it always amazes me how often this question gets asked by people who are planning a winter trip to Iceland. I also get aurora related questions on the blog all the time…

So in this article, I bundled up all those frequently asked questions about seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland and our answers to them. Where, when, and how to see the Northern Lights in Iceland … No scientific explanations, but simple tips for tourists who simply want to see auroras.

Below, you’ll find answers to all the FAQs we get about the Northern Lights. We also share all our top tips for seeing Aurora Borealis in Iceland. We also included a section with the best Northern Lights tours in Iceland , photography tips, and what to wear so that you can truly enjoy the experience.

TIP: While seeing the Northern Lights is a real bucket-list experience, try not to focus on it as the sole purpose of your trip. There is so much to see and do in Iceland , including so many other great winter activities , such as snowmobiling, glacier hiking , ice caves, etc.

So make sure to create a really nice Iceland winter itinerary for your trip, so that you have a wonderful time either way. And if you get to see the auroras, then it will be just the cherry on top.

Good to know: All the aurora pictures in this article are mine and taken during several trips to Iceland. These are real images of what the Northern Lights in Iceland can look like and what you are most likely to see.

This should give you a better idea of what you can expect in reality, which is usually very different than the picture-perfect aurora displays at the most scenic locations that you see in the travel brochures. Very different, indeed, but still amazing.

When is the best time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland

You can see Northern Lights in Iceland from the (very) end of August until mid-April. However, the best time to see auroras in Iceland is between September and March . You need darkness in order to see the Northern Lights and for that, the end of August is often too early and by mid-April, the nights don’t get dark enough anymore.

There is not one specific month that’s better for auroras than the other. It’s a natural phenomenon and it remains a question of luck. If you look purely at solar activity, then the prime time for seeing the Northern Lights is during the Equinox, which is the last two weeks of September and the second and third week of March. However, it’s never guaranteed and so much also depends on the weather.

The most spectacular aurora display I have ever seen was in Iceland in November. And the ones I saw in September were nothing compared to that. So you really never know.

Can you see Northern Lights in Iceland in summer?

No, you cannot see the Northern Lights in Iceland in May, June, July, and the biggest part of August.

It just doesn’t get dark enough in the summer months. Summer is the season for the Midnight Sun!

The very end of August is the earliest when you can expect to see auroras in Iceland, and even then, your chances are really low.

Where can you see the Northern Lights in Iceland?

You need three factors in order to see auroras: darkness, (relatively) clear skies, and aurora activity. If the conditions are right, you can see the Northern Lights anywhere in Iceland. There is no place that’s better than another and you really cannot predict this in advance!

That being said, your chances to see auroras are always higher outside the cities where there is little to no light pollution.

But as long as it’s dark, there are not too many clouds, and aurora activity is high enough, you can see the Northern Lights anywhere. If aurora activity is really high, you can even see the Northern Lights in downtown Reykjavik.

Every time someone asks which hotel to book for Northern Lights or where and when to go exactly, it makes me smile. Because, well, it’s like asking where to see a rainbow. Except that you can in fact predict the timing of some rainbows at the waterfalls, whereas you really cannot predict where and when the Northern Lights will appear.

Best hotels for Northern Lights in Iceland

As already said before, it’s really impossible to say where you should stay or which hotels are best for seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland. Auroras are a natural phenomenon, furthermore so much depends on the weather.

So if you see a list of the best hotels to stay for the Northern Lights in Iceland, take it with a grain of salt. They might be amazing hotels and have beautiful remote locations, but they cannot guarantee that you will see auroras. Nobody can.

That being said, when planning your Iceland winter trip itinerary and looking for hotels, try to pick the ones that are somewhat further away from towns. The darker it is near the hotel, the easier it will be to see auroras right there, without having to walk or take a car.

And because our readers keep on asking, below, you can find some specific hotel suggestions for the Northern Lights viewing. These are mostly hotels along the South Coast of Iceland because driving the entire Ring Road is usually not the best idea in the darkest winter months. These are just some hotels where you could stay during your winter trip and where the surroundings are usually dark enough for auroras. The rest is luck and persistence to actually go outside and wait.

Here are some nice hotels to see Northern Lights in Iceland:

• Hotel Ranga . Beautiful hotel in Hella, along the South Coast.
• Glacier View Guesthouse . A lovely small hotel in Hrifunes, between Vik and Kirkjubæjarklaustur.
• Magma Hotel . Nice hotel in Kirkjubæjarklaustur, between Vik and Jokulsarlon.
• Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon . Most beautiful hotel in the Jokulsarlon area.
• Hali Country Hotel . Great location-price-quality hotel near Jokulsarlon.
• Fosshotel Vatnajökull . Another excellent option not too far from Jokulsarlon.
• Úthlíd Cottages . A nice budget-friendly option along the Golden Circle.
• Fosshotel Hellnar . One of the best places to stay on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula .
• Lighthouse Inn . Simple hotel with a nice location in Gardur, on Reykjanes Peninsula , not too far from Keflavik airport.

Once again, note that these are just a few examples. Furthermore, we only chose accommodations that are quite easy to get to and are located in the most popular areas that you can visit in winter. There are many more good places to stay for the Northern Lights in Iceland, but seeing them is never guaranteed.

READ ALSO: Best Places to Stay in Reykjavik

Are the Northern Lights only green in the pictures?

No, auroras are not just green in the pictures and you can really see them with your own eyes. However, it is also true that weak auroras are not visible to the naked eye and only look green in the pictures.

But if you are lucky to witness a strong Northern Lights display, you will see the most phenomenal light show with all shades of green. Sometimes, auroras can also color red or purple. It’s magical!

How to increase your chances of seeing Aurora in Iceland

Here are some tips on how to increase your chances of seeing auroras in Iceland:

• Travel to Iceland between September and March .
• Plan a longer trip . The longer you stay in Iceland, the more chance that the weather conditions and aurora activity will be favorable.
• Stay in hotels and accommodations outside of towns , so that you have almost no light pollution.
• Check the aurora forecast every day. We recommend the official website of the Icelandic Meteorological Office . You can also install one of the many Icelandic aurora alert apps.
• If aurora activity is at least 3-4 and you have a possibility to do so safely, drive to a place where there are no cloud s that night.
• Go outside and wait! This is probably the most important tip and one where most people fail. Of course, you might get lucky and see auroras outside your hotel just after dinner. But this hardly ever happens. Most of the time, you really have to make an effort. And yes, it’s not going to be easy to stay up and spend hours outside every night. But if the aurora forecast is good and there are no clouds, you really should go outside and just wait.
• If you are staying in Reykjavik , then you should really consider taking an organized tour (more info below). Tours always go looking for the best places for that specific night; places far away from light pollution and where there are no clouds.

What to wear for aurora hunting in Iceland

What to wear for aurora hunting will depend a bit on the month when you visit Iceland. If you are looking for auroras in Iceland in September , you might be ok with a light jacket and a sweater. Whereas in the middle of the winter, you might need to bundle up using every single layer that you have packed (and still be cold)… In general, expect that it will be cold. Very cold.

I recommend overdressing when planning to go aurora hunting – always dress warmer than you think you’ll need. The wind is usually so strong in Iceland that it will feel much colder than the weather forecast might make you think. Also, waiting for auroras means that you sometimes stand still for long periods of time. You’ll quickly get colder than you anticipated.

To give you an idea, here is what I always wear when chasing auroras during the cold winter nights in Iceland:

• Thermal merino wool underwear (shirt and leggings from Icebreaker ).
• At least two sweaters (fleece is ok as one of the layers, but wool is a must!). Once, I even wore 4 sweaters over each other and it was still cold.
• A warm wind- and waterproof winter jacket or parka.
• Very thick windproof ski pants.
• One or two pairs of wool socks.
• Very warm winter boots (I own these UGG boots . More suggestions – best winter boots for travel ).
• Two pairs of gloves (thin gloves ones for photography and Goretex mittens to wear over the thin ones).
• Warm wind-proof winter hat with ear flaps (something like this isn’t exaggerated).
• A polar buff and a warm scarf or two warm buffs over each other (something like this ).

READ ALSO: What to Wear and What to Pack for Iceland in Winter

Best Iceland Northern Lights tours

There are many Northern Lights tours in Iceland and most of them run from Reykjavik. You can choose between big-bus tours, small-group tours, or private tours. In addition, you can also opt for aurora tours by boat or by super-jeep.

Here you can find the complete selection of aurora tours on GetYourGuide or on Viator . We do not recommend booking with suppliers directly, because their cancelation policy is usually not as flexible. Furthermore, if something goes wrong, it’s practically impossible to get your money back.

We recommend GetYourGuide as the very best website for any tour bookings. They have the most flexible cancelation policy and excellent customer service.

TIP: Some tours offer a free retry if you don’t get to see auroras on the first day. So it’s best to plan your tours at the beginning of the trip. That way, if you don’t get to see them and your tour offers this possibility, you can still try to reschedule for later.

Here are some of the best Northern Lights tours from Reykjavik:

• Bus tour . This has been the best-rated big bus Northern Lights tour in Iceland for several years. It also includes a free ticket to the Aurora Museum in Reykjavik. Furthermore, if you don’t see auroras on the first day, you get a free retry. This tour is much cheaper than minibus tours.
• Minibus tour . This is one of the best price-quality aurora tours from Reykjavik for those who prefer to go with a smaller group.
• Guided tour with photos . This tour includes warm drinks, blankets, and free pictures that your guides take of the Northern Lights you see that evening.
• Luxury yacht tour.  This boat tour is very popular, but you should know that it can get really cold and bumpy on the water. On the other hand, you can stay inside the luxury boat and only come outside when there is something to see. It’s also very difficult to take good pictures of the Northern Lights from a moving boat, but if you are looking for an amazing experience rather than documenting it, then this is a very nice option. And if you don’t get to see auroras, at least you see some nice scenery and have a pleasant relaxing evening.

READ ALSO: Best Winter Tours in Iceland

An alternative way to see Northern Lights in Iceland

If you are visiting Iceland in summer or if the weather turns out really bad and you don’t get a chance to see the Northern Lights in real life, we recommend that you pay a visit to the Perlan Museum in Reykjavik .

Among other things, you’ll be able to see the Perlan Arora Show, which is almost as good as the real thing. It’s very well done and is absolutely impressive!

I have seen auroras in Iceland and Norway multiple times, but I still found this aurora show worth a visit.

LEARN MORE: Perlan Museum in Reykjavik & Best Things to Do in Reykjavik

How to photograph the Northern Lights

Northern Lights photography is a bit tricky. First, it’s dark and very cold. Also, if you are lucky to see a really good display, the auroras will be moving and changing intensity all the time. And finally, most tourists only get to see auroras once or twice and don’t have much chance to practice or perfect their aurora photography skills. Often, you’ll be glad if you have one chance!

So if you want to try to take some pictures of the Northern Lights, you have to prepare in advance! And no, you don’t have to be a professional photographer, but it definitely helps to know some basic tips and camera settings to start with.

We have compiled some of our best tips and suggestions for aurora photography for beginners in a separate guide. Click on the link below to read all about it.

LEARN MORE: Northern Lights Photography Tips

To summarize, here are some of the most asked questions in regard to seeing auroras in Iceland:

The best months to see the Northern Lights in Iceland are between September and March. That’s when the nights are long and dark enough for viewing auroras.

Northern Lights displays can last for just a few seconds, but they can also last for several hours. I have seen aurora displays that lasted no longer than 5 seconds, but I have also seen magnificent aurora shows that lasted several hours. Sometimes, they stop but then reappear again and the show can go on for hours.

Yes, it’s possible to see Northern Lights in Reykjavik. If the aurora display is very strong, you can sometimes see it despite the lights of the city (I have even seen them from my hotel window in Reykjavik). That being said, your chances are always higher in the darker places, a bit outside the city center. The area around Grótta Island Lighthouse is one of the best places to see auroras in Reykjavik.

Yes, you can see the Northern Lights even if there is a full moon. If the auroras are weak, then the strong moonlight might make it more difficult to see them. But if auroras are strong, it’s definitely possible. Once, I saw a magnificent aurora show that lasted more than 3 hours under the full moon.

If the conditions are right, you can see the Northern Lights EVERYWHERE in Iceland. There is not one place or region of Iceland that’s better for viewing auroras than another.

If you are visiting Iceland between September and October, there is always a good chance of seeing the Northern Lights. However, auroras are a natural phenomenon and you need clear skies in order to see them, so you really cannot plan or predict it in advance.

While Iceland is a very good place to see the Northern Lights, it’s not the very best place in the world. Because of its location directly on the Aurora Ring, the Tromsø area in Norway is considered one of the very best places to see the Northern Lights in the world. There, you can see auroras even if the activity is very low and the chances for clear skies are higher. More information – Northern Lights in Tromso .

More tips for your winter trip to Iceland:

• Useful info: Tips for Visiting Iceland in Winter
• Bucket list: Best Things to Do in Iceland in Winter
• Good to know:   Iceland Travel Tips
• Must-read: Driving in Iceland in Winter
• Packing:  What to Wear in Iceland in Winter
• Itinerary:  The Best Iceland Winter Itinerary & 1 Day in Reykjavik
• Where to stay:  Where to Stay in Iceland & Where to Stay in Reykjavik
• Airport transfers:  How to Get to Reykjavik from Keflavik Airport
• Budget:  How Expensive is Iceland (& How to Save Money)
• Tours: Best Winter Tours from Reykjavik

READ ALSO: Best Places to See on the South Coast of Iceland

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Lindsey Wilson-Willis

Monday 6th of November 2023

Hi there. Thanks for the article. Really helpful. We are in Reykjavik tonight only. Where will be best to try and see the NLs. Thank you,

@Jurga, we have a car…. Are you able to recommend a ‘good chance’ destination? Thanks again. Lindsey

Hi Lindsey, I see on the aurora forecast map that cloud coverage doesn't look great for Reykjavik tonight, but there are some openings nearby, so maybe you have a chance. Going on a tour (by bus or boat) would increase your chances. But if you rather stay in the city, then it's best to go to the darkest waterfront areas. For example, to Grótta Island Lighthouse, which is located a bit outside of the center in the area that has less light pollution. Good luck!

Monday 26th of December 2022

Great article! However, our travel plans put us to arrive April 18th and it seems most of the tours stop April 15th...can you recommend a good way to try and see them without a tour? Would it just be to rent a car and drive somewhere?

Tuesday 27th of December 2022

Hi Kelly, most tours stop because it becomes too light at that time of the year and the chances of seeing auroras are really low. Even April 15 is probably already stretched. That being said, you can always see how the conditions are, and if it’s dark enough and there is a strong aurora activity, just go outside and wait. But it has to be really dark so it helps if you’re not in the middle of the city. You can download some aurora apps and keep an eye on what they predict, but don’t count on it at that time of the year.

Angela Hunter

Friday 17th of December 2021

Beautiful shots of the light show, thank you so much for sharing them. I didn’t know that some of the light is only seen for a few seconds.

I can’t wait until the airline restrictions are lifted. I would be there in a minute!

Monday 20th of December 2021

Hi Angela, yes, auroras are quite unpredictable and you never really know what 'show' you're going to get. Hope you can experience it one day!

Tuesday 24th of August 2021

I teach - so very limited in when I can travel to Iceland. If I am traveling in early August, and go pretty North (like porshofn or Raudanes Point), and ensure that I am at that point during the new moon. What are the chances of seeing Northern Lights?

Wednesday 25th of August 2021

@Jurga, thank you so much for your answer! I think this will then just be a hiking/waterfalls hike.

I teach college so not as many days off and my spouse is so low on the totem pole at their job that taking days off around holidays os not happening. So we will have to plan something else for northern lights. Maybe Norway :-)

Hi Sally, unfortunately, your chances of seeing the Northern Lights anywhere in early August are pretty much 0. It just doesn't get dark enough yet up North. The earliest you could hope to see them is from approximately the last week of August. Also, in summer, it's actually lighter the further north you go. So going to the northernmost point in Iceland in early August would just give you even more daylight than staying in Reykjavik (not that any of that matters much because it simply doesn't get dark at night at that time of the year). Having said all this, we travel with kids and can also only travel during school holidays. Still, we have quite a few holidays that fall between September and March (potentially early April), so if you have any vacations during that time of the year, it would be a much better chance for auroras. On the other hand, Iceland is also amazing in early August and well worth a trip even though you won't see auroras (but can witness the midnight sun). It's just a totally different experience traveling there in summer or in winter.

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Northern Lights Tours in Iceland

Explore the Land of Fire and Ice on an Iceland northern lights tour and you could witness the aurora borealis in all its multi-coloured, enchanting beauty. These self-drive and guided packages are curated by local experts and include accommodation, local transport and more.

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Iceland Full Circle Classic - Winter

South iceland at leisure - winter, northern lights circle tour, iceland's famous ring road.

Winter Highlights & Northern Lights

Ice cave & glacier lagoon.

Best of South & West Iceland - Winter

Golden circle & snæfellsnes, natural wonders of iceland - winter, the ring road & snæfellsnes, a new year’s to remember, northern lights, super jeeps and nye party, south & west iceland classic - winter, iceland full circle at leisure - winter, glacier lagoon & northern lights, new year’s in iceland, golden circle, northern lights & nye party, south iceland & into the glacier - winter, winter highlights - private, golden circle classic - winter, golden circle, blue lagoon & northern lights, northern lights adventure in the westfjords, reykjavik, northern lights, best of south iceland - winter, golden circle, south coast & blue lagoon, best of south & north iceland - winter, golden circle, south coast & lake mývatn, golden circle & south coast - winter, south & west iceland at leisure - winter, christmas & northern lights, best of south iceland, christmas in iceland, reykjavik, waterfalls, northern lights, new year’s & northern lights, best of south iceland & new year's eve party, christmas & new year’s in iceland, northern lights & new years eve fun, a christmas to remember, super jeeps, glaciers & blue lagoon, golden circle express - winter, classic south coast - winter, active iceland - winter, snowmobiling, ice tunnel & golden circle, northern lights circle tour - private.

1217702 ISK

Iceland Full Circle Classic - Winter - Private

1598386 ISK

Golden Circle & South Coast - Winter - Private

Iceland luxury adventure - winter, northern lights, winter wonders & blue lagoon retreat.

1157452 ISK

Iceland Luxury Escape - Winter

Northern lights, south iceland & blue lagoon retreat.

1794264 ISK

Iceland Luxury Escape at Leisure - Winter

2328410 ISK

Iceland Luxury Adventure at Leisure - Winter

1639689 ISK

South & West Iceland Classic Winter - Private

1220182 ISK

Countries Visited Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Denmark

Best of Scandinavia & Iceland - Winter

Train, cruise & minibus, best of scandinavia - norway cruise & iceland - winter, need any help so far talk with our local experts.

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About Your Iceland Northern Lights Package

Picture yourself chasing magical, flickering displays of the aurora borealis in Iceland. Crafted by Reykjavík-based experts, these winter itineraries will get you to the right place at the right time for spotting the northern lights*. Plus, with insider tips from your dedicated travel consultant, you’ll have an unforgettable time exploring the country’s top spots and hidden treasures.

When you book an Iceland northern lights vacation with Nordic Visitor, you can expect:

• An authentic travel experience operated by a trusted local company • A dedicated travel consultant who will arrange your tour • Opportunities to hunt for the aurora , whether you choose a self-drive or guided trip • A comfortable journey in your chosen rental car or on your minibus tour • Handpicked accommodation for a relaxing stay in Iceland • 24/7 phone support during your adventure for peace of mind

1. Pick your favourite Nordic Visitor tour 2. Confirm (or customise) 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 phenomenon so sightings aren’t 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 travel experts

Established in 2002, Nordic Visitor is a leading tour operator based in Reykjavík. With local experts that live and breathe Iceland, you’ll have a better chance of seeing the lights. Along with discovering the best aurora-watching spots, you’ll get insight into the must-see attractions and beyond.

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.

Customisable tour options

Your travel wish list is unique to you, so why not personalise these Iceland northern lights tours to match? Book online to see what optional extras are available for your trip. For instance, you could extend your stay with additional nights, upgrade your accommodation and choose from handpicked excursions.

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.

You are in good hands

When you travel with us, you’re never alone. Should any unforeseen events or weather issues arise, speak to a local travel consultant by calling our 24/7 helpline. If needed, they’ll rearrange your accommodation and activities to ensure your journey is memorable for all the right reasons.

Handpicked hotels

Your accommodation has been specially chosen and tested by us to ensure you’ll have a relaxing visit. So get ready to check in and recharge your batteries. Depending on your trip, you might be staying in the countryside. And low light pollution is ideal for seeing the northern lights more clearly.

Reviews for Aurora Tour Packages

Find out what guests loved most about chasing the northern lights in Iceland.

Janice United States

I cannot thank Nordic Visitor enough for providing me with a wonderful and memorable once-in-a-lifetime experience.... read more

I cannot thank Nordic Visitor enough for providing me with a wonderful and memorable once-in-a-lifetime experience. Everything was seamless, from the pickup at the airport, to the excellent hotels, delicious food served and our friendly, knowledgeable guide, Jakob. Nothing was too much trouble - we all thoroughly enjoyed our experience in Iceland, and all came away with wonderful memories of many of the amazing sights of such a scenic country. We were even lucky enough to see the northern lights. I will certainly travel with Nordic Visitor again and would recommend them to anyone thinking about visiting the countries where they offer tours. Thank you Nordic Visitor!

Duncan Australia

The tour was a great experience, and particularly for us with the good conditions. The amazing northern lights... read more

The tour was a great experience, and particularly for us with the good conditions. The amazing northern lights display we saw on the last night will be something we will never forget (and we have the photos!). The accommodation was really good throughout and was a real surprise as we moved away from Reykjavík. There was plenty of time through the tour to explore waterfalls and glaciers. I would absolutely recommend this to everyone who wants to experience the whole of Iceland. 

Your Northern Lights Trip Highlights

Imagine the cool winter air in your lungs, a clear night sky above and your camera at the ready as you hunt for the aurora. Visit Iceland and you could…

• Venture into the countryside to look for enchanting displays of the northern lights
• Explore the Golden Circle’s iconic sights: Gullfoss waterfall, Geysir , and Þingvellir National Park
• See icebergs bobbing on the turquoise waters of Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon
• Marvel at cascading waterfalls, such as Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss , when they’re frosted with icicles
• Experience Iceland’s dazzling ice caps on a guided hike or opt for an Into the Glacier excursion
• Unwind in the mineral-rich waters of the Blue Lagoon , perhaps even surrounded by snow-dusted lava fields
• Soak up wintry scenery in the wild Westfjords and stunning Snæfellsjökull National Park
• Wander along the black volcanic sands of Reynisfjara beach and gaze out at the troll-like sea stacks
• Immerse yourself in Icelandic culture in Reykjavík , and in the capital of the north, Akureyri

Advice for Northern Lights Holidays in Iceland

Check out these travel guides before your magical northern lights tour.

Northern Lights Guide

Learn more about this natural wonder and how to prepare for seeing it

What to pack

Layers, layers, layers! Come prepared for all types of weather

Climate & weather conditions

How icy is Iceland? You might be surprised

Winter driving in Iceland

In a country where 'ice' is part of the name, it's good to be prepared

Frequently Asked Questions About Northern Lights Tour Packages

Check out the answers to these most frequently asked questions to find out more about northern lights trips in Iceland. Plus, browse this Iceland Travel Guide for useful tips and information.

It’s also good to know that when you choose Nordic Visitor, you can Book With Confidence , safe in the knowledge that your payments are protected. Please read our FAQs and booking terms , for details about our booking process, payments and more.

1. What causes the northern lights?

While the northern lights, or aurora borealis, do look otherworldly, there’s a scientific explanation for this breathtaking natural phenomenon.

It all starts with solar storms around the sun that send blasts of electrically charged particles towards Earth. When they collide with the upper atmosphere, they produce glowing emissions. If a lot of these reactions take place at the same time, it causes a jaw-dropping light show that you can see in the sky.

The movement, shapes and colours you’ll witness depend on the type of atoms involved. Other factors include the intensity of solar activity and the pull of Earth’s magnetic forces.

For instance, green is often the most common colour you’ll notice during an aurora event. But if the levels of solar activity are high, you might also catch flashes of blue, purple and red.

Delve deeper into what causes the northern lights .

2. Is Iceland good for the northern lights?

Absolutely! Visit Iceland in winter – October to March – and you’ll discover it’s an excellent place to go if you want to hunt for the aurora.

This is because you’ll need darkness if you’re to see the northern lights, making Iceland’s long winter nights ideal. Low light pollution, high solar activity and cloudless skies are the other key things you’ll need to come together. Happily, you can also experience these in Iceland.

You’ll also find that the country has large unpopulated regions where there’s little or no light pollution – perfect for chasing the aurora. Plus, as it lies within the “northern lights belt” (or “aurora zone”) there’s lots of solar activity in the skies above Iceland.

Just wait for a night with clear skies, keep an eye on your aurora forecast app , and you could glimpse the northern lights. Uncover top tips and more in this guide to the aurora in Iceland .

3. When can you see the aurora borealis in Iceland?

The winter months of October to March are the best time for you to see the northern lights in Iceland . This is because, across the Northern Hemisphere, the nights are long and dark at this time of year.

In fact, during mid-winter – December and early January – the days can be so short that you’ll have around 19 hours of darkness. And the longer the nights, the more chances you’ll have to spot the aurora.

For more information on daylight in Iceland , check out this travel guide.

4. Can you see the aurora borealis in May, June, July or August?

There are plenty of reasons to visit Iceland in summer , but don’t travel in May , June , July or August if you want to see the aurora. This is because you need dark skies to see the northern lights. And during summertime, the nights are not dark or long enough to see them.

Instead, you’ll want to visit between October and March – the Icelandic winter – when your chances of seeing the lights are much better. It’s also possible to glimpse the aurora in early spring ( April ) and autumn ( September ).

Discover more about the best time to explore Iceland , depending on your interests.

5. Where can you see the northern lights in Iceland?

Thanks to winter’s long nights, you can see the northern lights all over Iceland at this time of year.

What’s more, the country sits within a zone called the “northern lights belt”, a band encircling the globe at latitudes of 65-72°N. With the most frequent and intense levels of solar activity, this region is the best place to go to if you want to see the aurora.

Remember, for the brightest and clearest displays, head away from any nearby light pollution. By venturing into the countryside, where it’s darker, you’ll get to enjoy this natural spectacle at its most vibrant.

Explore other places to see the northern lights on these aurora trips in Northern Europe .

6. How often does the aurora borealis occur in Iceland?

The aurora borealis can happen at any time throughout the year. But over the spring and autumn equinoxes, you’ll find that solar activity ramps up. This means displays of the aurora could occur more frequently around these dates in March and September respectively.

Compared to the middle of winter, the nights are shorter over the equinoxes. So although the northern lights might not be dancing quite as much in winter, you’ll have a better chance of seeing them during these darker months.

Along with the solar activity that causes the aurora, you’ll need a few other key factors to come together at the same time. These are clear skies, darkness and low levels of light pollution.

One of the most convenient ways to keep an eye on the levels of solar activity is to download an aurora app to your smartphone. Combine this with a local weather forecast, and you’ll get a good idea of when you might be able to see the northern lights. So keep a look out for when a cloudless night and high solar activity match up.

It’s worth bearing in mind that even if you do have the right conditions for the northern lights, they may not appear when you want them to.

7. What is the best way to see the northern lights?

The best way to see the northern lights depends on how you want to experience Iceland. Not to mention the other things you’d like to see and do while you’re here.

With Nordic Visitor, you can choose the travel style that works for your northern lights getaway. Take your pick from self-drive, small group and privately guided tour packages, along with stays in Reykjavík that include guided excursions.

To embrace the freedom of going at your own pace while chasing the northern lights, choose a winter self-drive tour in Iceland . Your package will include accommodation, a rental car, daily breakfast and more. You’ll also benefit from the insider know-how of your dedicated travel consultant who’ll make all the arrangements for you.

They’ll give you a detailed itinerary and hand-marked map, complete with recommendations on where to stop along the way. And with a car, you can make spontaneous stops on your trip. So if the aurora appears unexpectedly, you can hop into your car and pick a good viewing spot.

But if you’d rather leave the winter driving to someone else, opt for a small group tour of Iceland . This way, a professional guide will show you the country’s iconic spots and hidden gems, and share their local knowledge with you. On winter tours, they’ll also be keeping an eye on when the northern lights might appear.

If you’d like to be accompanied by a driver-guide while having the freedom to customise your trip, pick a privately guided tour . This option gives you the flexibility of an independent trip while benefitting from the expertise of a local guide.

Plus, if you have specific interests, we’ll select a guide to match. Not to mention you’ll be able to choose your travel companions – perfect for a break with friends or family.

On the other hand, multi-day tours are ideal if you’d like to stay in one location during your time in Iceland. Most of these packages are based in the bustling capital of Reykjavík.

As well as accommodation, your trip comes with handpicked excursions into the stunning countryside. This lets you discover top spots such as the Blue Lagoon and Golden Circle without needing to unpack and repack your bags.

8. How to photograph the aurora borealis in Iceland?

Seeing the aurora with your own eyes is a spellbinding experience you’ll never forget! But capturing the lights on camera can be tricky if you don’t take some time to get to know your camera’s settings.

An SLR camera with manual focus works well. And it helps to have a tripod to avoid blurry images. Here are some top tips for getting the best shots of the northern lights:

• Shutter release: For even steadier shots, get a remote shutter release so you don’t have to touch the camera at all when taking a picture.
• Spare batteries: Cold temperatures tend to deplete the life of your battery levels faster, so make sure to bring 1 or 2 spares.
• Head torch: This will be essential to let you see what you’re doing when you’re shooting in the dark.
• Image stabilisation: If your camera has this, turn it off.
• ISO: To increase your camera’s sensitivity to light, set the ISO to around 400, 800, or higher if possible.
• Aperture (f-stop): Set your aperture as low as possible. This will result in more light coming through the lens. On most cameras, you’ll find you can get this down to about 3.5.
• Shutter speed: Use a long exposure of 15 to 30 seconds. The longer the exposure, the more light your camera will capture.

9. Can I customise my tour package?

All of these northern lights packages have been curated by Iceland-based experts to ensure you’ll have an unforgettable trip. But it’s also possible to personalise your tour by extending your stay or adding optional activities to your itinerary.

In fact, it’s easy to tailor your trip when you book online. You can choose from extra night options and additional excursions. For instance, you could chase the northern lights by boat or super jeep. Or why not try activities such as relaxing in the Sky Lagoon, snowmobiling on a glacier, and exploring ice caves?

For the ultimate tailored travel experience, opt for a privately guided tour of Iceland . Not only will your dedicated travel consultant customise your itinerary to your needs, but you’ll also get a guide with similar interests.

If there’s something specific you want to do during your trip, just ask your travel consultant – they’ll have the inside scoop.

10. Can I choose the arrival date?

Travel with Nordic Visitor and you can choose from a variety of northern lights trips in Iceland with availability from September to April.

On self-drive, privately guided and multi-day packages, you can pick any of the available start dates in the tour’s online calendar. Meanwhile, on guided small group trips, select the date that works for you from the list of available departures.

Meanwhile, northern lights Christmas and New Year packages in Iceland are available over the festive period with selected December departure dates. If you want to travel at this time of year, make sure to book early so you don’t miss out.

To see which start dates are available for the tour you are interested in, check its availability calendar online.

11. When should I organise my flights?

We recommend checking to see what flights are available before booking your trip. That said, it’s best to hold off on purchasing your flights until after your dedicated travel consultant has finalised the arrangements for your tour.

Once you’ve heard from them, you can go ahead and confirm your plans for getting to Iceland.

12. What to wear to see the northern lights in Iceland?

The weather in Iceland is known for being unpredictable. There’s even a popular Icelandic word, “gluggaveður”, which translates as “window weather” in English. This is when it might look warm from the inside, but in fact it’s a cold day outside.

What’s more, when you’re chasing the northern lights, you’ll be out and about at night, so be sure to wrap up warm. With this in mind, it’s best to bring plenty of layers for your winter getaway. Here’s a list of what to pack for Iceland to get you started:

• Winter boots with good grip
• Waterproof and windproof jacket and trousers
• Down or synthetic insulated jacket
• Woollen or fleece jumpers
• Thermal baselayers
• Cosy hat, scarf and gloves
• Thick hiking socks
• Reusable water bottle
• Flask for a warm drink

For more tips on how to dress for the seasons, check out this blog on what to wear in Iceland .

Get in touch with us, whether you have a question about northern lights tours in Iceland or want to start planning your trip. Our Reykjavík-based travel experts want to help you make the most of your winter escape to Iceland.

Our Icelandic phone number is +354 578 20 80

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

Blog Articles

Top 5 northern lights hotels in iceland, how to see the northern lights: viewing tips, best times and places to see the northern lights in iceland, top 10 things to do in iceland in winter.

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Northern Lights Tours

Northern Lights Super Jeep Tour

Chase the auroras in a super jeep from reykjavik.

Escape the big tour buses and go off the beaten track to hunt Iceland's magical Northern Lights. We pick you up and drive you around in a stylish and comfortable Super Jeep!

Our Northern Lights chase on a Super Jeep is the ultimate experience in Iceland. Venturing off the beaten track in the powerful Super Jeep grants you exclusive access to the best spots in Iceland to admire the dancing lights in all their glory. We’ll drive away from the crowds and light pollution. Wrap yourself in a blanket and enjoy a cup of hot cocoa with chocolate  while gazing up at the Aurora Borealis in the heavens!

Your guide will tell you all about this natural wonder and take free photographs so you can always keep the memory alive!

If you’re someone who likes to go the extra mile, book the Northern Lights and Aurora Museum tour combo, save up to 10 %, and enjoy a visit to the museum, where you’ll find out everything there is to know about these beautiful lights before seeing it live.

• Chase the Northern Lights
• Ride in a Super Jeep
• Discover Icelandic countryside
• Enjoy hot cocoa & chocolate
• Pick-up & drop off from Reykjavík
• Northern Lights photos
• Hot cocoa & chocolate
• English speaking expert guide
• Free WiFi on the jeep
• Complementary retry valid for 3 years when no Northern Lights are seen on the tour

What to bring

• Warm outdoor clothing
• Waterproof jacket and pants
• Good warm shoes and wool socks

Tour Snapshot

• Expert Guides
• Small Group Experience
• Best Price Guarantee
• Fast & Secure Payment
• No Booking Fees
• Free Cancellation

Save up to 10 % by selecting the Aurora Museum upgrade.

Select one of the options:

• Super Jeep Tour
• MUSEUM UPGRADE

Each winter, we welcome an ever-growing number of cosmic fans to Iceland searching for the famous Aurora Borealis. Just a smidge below the Arctic Circle, Iceland is among the world's best places to see colors dance in the Northern Hemisphere.

This natural phenomenon occurs when particles from the sun, also known as the solar wind, enter the Earth's magnetic field. As electrically charged particles start to collide with gaseous particles in the Earth's atmosphere, something here about "creates auroras." Be prepared to be awestruck by swirling curtains of light in the dark sky!

The Northern Lights are much more than just pretty lights in the sky. Learn more about them by taking advantage of the Northern Lights and Aurora Museum combo deal – save up to 10 % and have an unforgettable experience hearing about Aurora Borealis and receiving useful tips on taking pictures of them. After your time at the museum, you’ll be picked up for a further adventure – a chase of the Northern Lights!

Hop on a Super Jeep from Reykjavik

Your expert Northern Light guide will pick you up at your selected pickup location in Reykjavik in a custom-built 4×4 super jeep. And that's where the adventure begins. Once everyone is on board, we will leave the city lights behind and head into the darkness of the Icelandic countryside.

On the search for the Aurora Borealis, we might travel past some of Iceland's most spectacular natural sights. Though shrouded in darkness, your guide is sure to point out what the night is hiding. Heading out on country roads gives us a greater chance to enjoy the Northern Lights and the wonders of the night sky without the discomfort of big crowds.

Soak in the Aurora Borealis

Once we find the right spot (which will be decided the same day by our expert guide, depending on the weather predictions), we wait for the spectacle to begin. Usually, the Northern Lights appear about 100 km (60 miles) above the Earth’s surface. Witnessing a light show emerge above the north magnetic pole is an experience that defies description. It’s as if space is trying to conquer the Earth with color. Just don’t forget to dress warmly! There’s nothing like a fleece sweater on a cold night to keep you warm or you could cuddle in a cozy blanket provided by us. We’ll also serve you a cup of cocoa with tasty Kleinur ("Icelandic doughnuts") .

Our guides take photos every time the Northern Lights are spotted, so you can be sure to get your picture taken with the aurora. See photos from previous tours here .

Kindly note that the Northern Lights are natural phenomena that are difficult to predict, but our guides do everything in their power to ensure the best chances of seeing them.

Practical Information

Pick-up information : For the Northern Lights adventure, pick-up is at either 20:30 (8:30 p.m.) or 21:30 (9:30 p.m.), depending on the season. You'll find the actual pick-up time in the booking process and on your final voucher. Picking everyone up can take up to 30 minutes, your patience is much appreciated. 

Available pick-up points : Arctic Adventures's pickup list .

With the Northern Lights and Aurora Museum combo, you will be picked up from the museum for the Northern Lights hunt.

Please note : As the success of the Northern Lights Explorer tour is heavily dependent on weather conditions, we reserve the right to cancel departures until 18:15 on the day of the tour. A refund is not available if the tour goes ahead and no northern lights are seen, however, s ince the spectacle of the Northern Lights is very much weather-dependent, if no aurora is seen, you’ll have unlimited re-tries valid for up to 3 years. That’s right, you’ll be able to re-join the chase of Northern Lights until it’s a successful one! 

What to do in this case? Our Customer Care is ready to help you and book your next re-try.

Please keep in mind that refunds are not issued when a tour takes place but no Northern Lights are seen. During a re-try, the tour is operated on a minibus instead of a super jeep.

Will I definitely see Northern Lights on the tour?

The Northern Lights are natural phenomena and we unfortunately cannot promise you will see them on our tours. Their appearance depends upon atmospheric and weather conditions, which are factors entirely out of our control.

For more information on the Northern Lights, please have a look at our Northern Lights information .

What are the best camera settings for photographing the Northern Lights?

Unfortunately, there isn’t just one simple answer to this question.

Your camera doesn't have a single setting that will guarantee excellent pictures.  But if you have manual controls, playing with different mixtures of ISO, aperture, and exposure settings is usually preferable. As a general rule, ISO settings of 800 to 3200, f/2.8 to f/5.6, and shutter speeds of 15 to 30 seconds have been found to be successful.

Keep in mind that ISO settings between 800 and 3200, f/2.8 and f/5.6, and shutter speeds between 15 and 30 seconds have produced excellent results.

Results from various combinations can vary greatly. You can take faster exposures with a higher ISO setting, but the photographs can turn up grainier as a result. 

If the shutter speed is above 15 seconds it will result in a slight star movement.

In low-light situations, wider-angle lenses are typically more adaptable, while longer lenses provide you with more compositional alternatives. Make sure to take off any lens filters because they could cause image distortion. Most likely, using a manual setting for infinite focal length will get the greatest results. 

For more tips, read our blog on photographing the Northern Lights .

What if the Northern Lights tour goes ahead and no Northern Lights are seen?

Since the spectacle of the Northern Lights is very much weather-dependent, if no aurora is seen, you’ll have unlimited re-tries valid for up to 3 years. That’s right, you’ll be able to re-join the chase of Northern Lights until it’s a successful one! 

Please keep in mind that refunds are not issued when a tour takes place but no Northern Lights are seen. During a re-try, the tour is operated on a minibus.

What are my options if my Northern Lights tour is cancelled?

When Northern Lights tours are cancelled it’s usually due to unfavourable weather conditions.

In that case, your options will be to:

1. Reschedule for another day.

2. Find another tour to embark on and use the deposit for it.

3. Get fully refunded.

Please contact our Customer Care team to re-book your tour .

How do I know if the Northern Lights tour is on for the evening?

The Northern Lights are a pretty difficult thing to predict. You can check the Icelandic Meteorological Office website to see the forecast - if the level is high and the skies are clear then it’s very likely that the tour is going ahead. We do update our website’s tour departure sheet with the information at 17:00 at the latest. If the tour is canceled, you will receive an email from us notifying you.

If we think there is no chance at all of seeing the lights, we will cancel the tour. We don’t want to bring you out and disappoint you if there will definitely be no aurora activity.

Will my guide take pictures for me?

Yes, the guide will take a photo of you with the Northern Lights behind you. These can be single or group photos and are free of charge.

What is a Super Jeep?

A Super Jeep is a highly modified vehicle equipped with 38" to 50" tires and a robust suspension system, uniquely designed to handle Iceland's diverse terrains and conditions. Dive deeper into the world of Super Jeep Tours .

Are Super Jeeps safe?

Yes, Super Jeeps are designed and modified to handle the challenging terrains of Iceland, ensuring safety during tours. For a secure adventure, check out our Super Jeep Tours .

How many people fit in a Super Jeep?

A Super Jeep can accommodate up to 19 riders, making it ideal for large families and small tour groups. Discover group adventures with our Super Jeep Tours .

What months can you see the northern lights?

The  Northern Lights season is said to be from late August until mid-April. However, if you want to increase your chances of seeing them, it is best to wait until the colder winter months, from mid-September until March.

Can you see the Northern Lights in Reykjavik?

If luck and weather are on your side, then you will be able to see the aurora borealis above the inviting streets of Reykjavik. Whether you see the lights or not depends on two unique factors. The first is the weather: If the sky is clear, with no clouds, then you are halfway to seeing the astonishing spectacle that is the Northern Lights (although light pollution can sometimes be a problem). Increased solar activity is the second factor, so if these two are both favorable at the same time you may well be able to see the Northern Lights from Reykjavik.

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Contact us for more information about this tour.

Arctic Adventures offers pick up service from selected Reykjavík pick up points. Note that you can always update your pick-up / drop-off location through our customer portal: https://my.adventures.is You can press the login button in your confirmation email for an easy login to the customer portal. If you experience an error with logging into the customer portal or can't find your booking, please contact us on Facebook Messenger, or send us a message here below. Chat with us on Facebook Messenger

The Best Time to See the Northern Lights in Iceland

When Is the Best Time to See the Northern Lights in Iceland?

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• Iceland’s Northern Lights Season

Can You See the Northern Lights in Iceland During Winter?

Can you see the northern lights in iceland during autumn and spring, can the northern lights be seen in the summer, what time of night is best to see the aurora borealis in iceland, what else can i do to make sure i see the northern lights in iceland, 1. avoid urban areas when northern lights hunting, 2. extend the length of your holiday, 3. travel across iceland, 4. check the weather forecast for northern lights, 5. be well-prepared and patient.

Learn the best time of year to see the northern lights in Iceland. Find out which are the best seasons and months for viewing the aurora borealis in Iceland.

The northern lights are one of nature's most magical sights, but they're also one of the most unpredictable. Maximize your chance of seeing nature’s most spectacular light show with this complete guide before embarking on a northern lights tour  or  renting a car  on Iceland's biggest travel marketplace.

Iceland’s northern lights are one of its major attractions, but the aurora borealis are fickle. They’re only visible under certain conditions, at certain times of the year, and only with enough solar activity. Knowing when you can see the northern lights in Iceland is essential for ensuring you have the best chances of a once-in-a-lifetime viewing.

Top Northern Lights Tours & Holidays

2 day ice cave tour with south coast waterfalls & jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, 3-day northern lights tour of iceland’s golden circle & south coast with ice caving & glacier hiking, 8-day guided northern lights winter tour of the complete ring road of iceland.

• Get to know more about the aurora by reading  Northern Lights in Iceland
• Find out all you need to know about Northern Lights Photography

The best time to see aurora borealis in Iceland is between September and April. It’s when the nights are dark enough to see the aurora.

Iceland only gets 4-5 hours of daylight in midwinter, providing endless opportunities to hunt for aurora borealis during that time.

Northern lights tours run between September and April. While there’s no particularly optimum time between this range, the nights are the darkest from November to January. This means you can seek the aurora in Iceland from late afternoon until nearly noon the next day, which provides perfect conditions to photograph the northern lights .

This makes January the absolute best time to visit Iceland for the northern lights, although you have a good chance to spot the aurora borealis in Iceland until April. Then it’s a long wait until September.

• See also: Best Winter Activities in Iceland

Another advantage of coming in midwinter is that you can see Iceland under a blanket of snow and make the most of Iceland’s other winter phenomena, most notably exploring the crystal blue ice caves , which are only found in a few other places worldwide.

The northern lights appear whenever there’s solar activity, but we can only spot them when it’s dark. Therefore  northern lights tours only run in the winter months as the longer nights make the aurora borealis easier to spot.

In general, northern lights are visible between late August and mid-April in Iceland. But that also depends on several other factors. For the best time to go to Iceland for the northern lights, it’s best to aim for the weeks around the winter solstice.

Photo from  Mesmerizing 25-Minute Northern Lights Show at Perlan Museum in Reykjavik

Though the urban light pollution usually hampers visibility, you can sometimes see the northern lights from the city center of Reykjavik. There are also areas within and around the city where the lights are more visible. Look for parks and coastal areas, like the Grotta nature reserve or the Sun Voyager sculpture, that are more isolated.

If you want some unique northern light experiences while in Reykjavik, you can combine a northern lights tour with a visit to Aurora Reykjavik , an exhibition dedicated to the aurora borealis. Alternatively, check out the award-winning Northern Lights Show at the Perlan Museum  observatory!

• For more, check out the  Best Places to See the Northern Lights in Reykjavik

The solar wind is the reason behind the appearance of northern lights. The Kp-index forecast is the measurement unit used to indicate the level of solar activity. The optimum level is above three, and you can check this on the Aurora Forecast in Iceland.

The Icelandic Meteorological Office also has an aurora forecast on cloud covers in Iceland to help you find the best place to spot northern lights.

The darker it is, the easier it is to spot aurora borealis. You can still see the northern lights in Reykjavik and other cities, but the best results are from the remote countryside. See our tips for finding aurora borealis yourself in Iceland , including how to see the northern lights in Reykjavik.

So there is no straight answer to when you can see the northern lights in Iceland since it isn’t just dependent on the season or month but also the meteorological and solar conditions.

Iceland’s Northern Lights Season

The best time of the year to see the northern lights in Iceland is undoubtedly the winter months. However, throughout these months, Iceland endures its worst weather.

Clouds can block the sky, and therefore the aurora borealis, for weeks at a time. Storms are also more common this season, occasionally leading to the cancellation of tours or the closure of main roads.

There are still plenty of winter activities in Iceland you can enjoy. You can go ice caving , snowmobiling , and glacier hiking before setting out to explore the northern lights each night.

Iceland’s weather is milder in autumn and spring (if still very unpredictable), meaning less chance of cloud cover, although note that the window of opportunity for northern lights hunting is smaller due to the increased daylight hours.

However, many summer tours extend into these months, allowing you to do more when the auroras are not visible. The Thrihnukagigur Inside the Volcano Tour continues until October and will enable you to descend into and explore a vast, unbelievably colorful magma chamber.

Whale-watching from the whale-watching capital of Europe, Husavik, begins in March and lasts until November, providing you the chance to marvel over the giants of the deep.

Keep in mind the best time for northern lights in Iceland is the winter months. However, seeing them in late autumn and early spring is still possible.

In the summer equinox weeks at the end of June, the sun never sets in Iceland. Instead, it circles the sky, touching the southern horizon but never quite sinking below it. The brightness of this ‘ Midnight Sun ’ entirely obscures the northern lights. Through the end of May, the entirety of June and July, and the beginning of August, the nights are still too bright to see the auroras.

• See also: The Midnight Sun in Iceland

Despite this, you can still see the aurora borealis faintly during the short hours of darkness at the very beginning and end of summer. Usually, they will be seen dimly against a dusky sky, often making for a uniquely beautiful display considering how vivid the colors of Iceland’s sunsets can be.

Even so, you have much less chance of seeing Iceland’s aurora borealis during these times, as they will need to be particularly intense to be visible, and there’s a much smaller window of opportunity to seek them. Suppose you want to see the aurora borealis in Iceland while still enjoying relatively mild weather and the option to partake in most summer activities. In that case, it’s recommended you come in September.

Top September Tours

• See also: Iceland in September

You can see the aurora borealis in Iceland whenever the sky is dark. Therefore, in December , they may be visible from three in the afternoon until nine in the morning. However, due to the Earth’s rotation, atmosphere, and magnetosphere relative to Iceland’s position on the globe, they are most likely to be seen between 10 PM and 12 AM.

This is when most northern lights tours set off. It also means that when the tours end, you’ve searched through the optimal time and back home early enough that it won’t compromise your plans the next day.

If you’re renting a car in Iceland and taking a winter self-drive tour tailored to the aurora borealis, you can search for the northern lights throughout the night. But you should remember to avoid sunrise and sunset when light pollution significantly dims them. If you are out well into the early hours hunting for the auroras, it’ll be noticeably colder, so dress accordingly.

Top Winter Self Drive Tours

Witnessing the northern lights in Iceland always requires some luck. Some travelers dead-set on aurora hunting may encounter cloud cover or a lack of solar activity every night of their holiday. Others, traveling for one night in August , might be blessed with a fantastic show without even looking for it.

Other than waiting for a clear winter’s night, there are several ways to optimize your chances of enjoying a fantastic display of the aurora borealis in Iceland.

Just hoping you see a northern lights display without laying any groundwork is probably not the wisest option. There are several easy steps you can take to increase your chances:

All lights have the same dimming effect on the auroras as the sun. If you’re in Reykjavik and want to see the northern lights, you must move away from the light pollution. You can take a bus to the Seltjarnarnes Nature Reserve , which is fairly dark compared to the rest of the city. However, you are more likely to achieve better results by booking a tour or driving out into the dark surrounding landscapes.

If you are on a guided package or self-drive tour, your route will take you out into the reaches of Iceland’s nature, maximizing your chances of catching a show every night.

If traveling to Iceland for just a weekend, you only have two or three nights in which to go aurora hunting. Considering the unpredictable weather and fickle nature of the aurora borealis, you’re not setting yourself up for success.

You’re statistically more likely to see the northern lights by staying in Iceland for an extended time.

A two-week-long vacation spent in different parts of the country will significantly increase your chances of a lucky night in perfect conditions.

Travelers could also consider spending much or all of their holiday in North Iceland . The nights here are longer, and the sky is usually less cloudy, providing increased opportunity. During the northern lights season, the north is also less busy than the Reykjavik area, allowing you to avoid the crowds at the most scenic viewing spots, such as the marvelous Myvatn lake or frozen waterfall Godafoss .

Iceland’s weather website has regularly updated pages revealing the predicted and current cloud cover around the country, allowing you to plan to reach the areas with the clearest skies. The aurora forecast measures from zero to nine, with three and above considered promising.

It'll take several minutes for your eyes to adjust to the darkness of Iceland's winter nights, so stay a while at each spot, even if the sky appears clear. The northern lights can also begin at any moment, so don't rush away if they aren't immediately active.

Make sure you have many layers of warm clothes - and perhaps some hot cocoa -so you can comfortably wait for the auroras as long as you need. When it comes to northern lights hunting, just a little bit of patience can lead to the most incredible rewards, which no doubt you will remember for the rest of your life.

Do you have any other questions about hunting the northern lights in Iceland? What time of year are you planning to visit? Are you considering a self-drive trip or taking a northern lights tour? Log in to Facebook to see or add to the comment section below!

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Northern Lights Exploration

Joshua Earle

Scan here for prices and availabilty

8 days - Small Group tour exploring the best of Western, Southern & Southeast Iceland in search of the Northern Lights

Experience the best of Iceland’s winter! Northern Lights Exploration is designed to include the highlights of Iceland and aim to maximise the chances of seeing the elusive Northern Lights. Head to the countryside: from the regions of Snæfellsnes Peninsula in the west to the Vatnajökull glacier in the south-east.

Discover the Golden Circle, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, the Blue Lagoon, the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and the Black lava beach. Climb a volcano, enter a lava cave, meet Icelandic horses on a farm, see turf farmsteads and churches. Optional ice cave tour at Vatnajökull glacier from mid-November to mid-March & optional Northern Lights by boat cruise from Reykjavík.

Read more about the best time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland .

Highlights include

• Track record of 85-98% chance of seeing the Northern Lights
• See amazing Icelandic landscapes mixed with soft adventure and cultural experiences during the day
• Climb a volcano crater and walk between two continental tectonic plates
• Visit the Settlement Center in Borgarnes
• Descend 35m underground into Vatnshellir cave situated under Snæfellsnesjökull glacier
• Relax in the Blue Lagoon and learn about living with volcanoes
• See Icelandic horses and taste freshly baked hot spring bread
• Five evenings Northern Lights Academy
• Optional ice cave tour at Vatnajökull glacier for departures between October-April (weather permitting)
• Small group, maximum 16 people
• Optional supplement for passengers that require social distancing and more space on the bus. Passengers get two seats per person.

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

Small coach (max 16 people on tour)

• Fully escorted 6-day bus tour with an English-speaking guide or driver-guide
• 7-night accommodation, in rooms with private shower/wc
• Daily breakfast
• Entry to the Settlement Center
• Entry to Vatnshellir cave
• Taste of freshly baked hot spring bread served with butter, boiled eggs and herring
• Entry to Fridheimar Geothermal Greenhouse
• Entry to Lava & Volcano Exhibition Center
• Entry to Skogar Folk Museum
• Parking fees
• Free Wi-Fi on the bus
• Use of crampons for shoes
• Use of flashlight

Not Included

• Any private expenses
• Any additional services
• All meals not listed under "included"
• Portage is not included - you will be responsible for carrying all your luggage.

Day 1 - Welcome to Iceland

Individual transfer by Flybus shuttle from Keflavik International airport to your accommodation in Reykjavik where you spend the night.

Accommodation

Restaurants.

Day 2 - Reykjavik City Tour & Borgarfjordur Saga Valley

At 09:00 meet your tour guide at the hotel. You will start the day with a short tour of the highlights of Iceland’s exciting capital. Then you head west. Borgarfjörður is known as the Saga Valley because of its many important historical events. You get a chance to climb the Grábrók volcano crater and visit Deildartunguhver, Europe’s most powerful hot spring. Hraunfossar is a series of waterfalls pouring from beneath a wide lava field. Barnafoss – the Children’s falls, is nearby with its own tragic tale. The afternoon includes a lecture about Northern Lights. After dinner, you step into the hotel garden in search of the Northern Lights followed by a hot cup of chocolate or tea.

Day 3 - Snæfellsnes Peninsula & Guided Cave Tour

The Snæfellsnes Peninsula, “the peninsula of the snowy mountain“, juts out from Iceland’s west coast, like a long arm with a clenched fist at its tip, and is in many ways a microcosm of the whole island. A rugged mountain chain runs its length. Visit the fishing village of Grundarfjörður, a place with an impressive coastline and mountains, lakes and waterfalls behind the village. One of the most photographed and famous mountain in Iceland, Kirkjufell, can be seen jutting out into the bay. Visit Arnarstapi and Hellnar before experiencing the area from below, inside Vatnshellir cave. You will be taken 35 metres underground and about 200 meters into the lava tube under the glacier Snæfellsjökull! On the way back to Borgarnes the guide gives you some practical tips on how to photograph the Auroras as part of the Northern Lights Academy program. Naturally, once darkness falls, we are out in the hotel garden to chase the Northern Lights and to soak in the hotel’s outdoor hot tubs.

Day 4 - Golden Circle, Geothermal Taste & Icelandic Horse

Today you travel along the Hvalfjörður fjord. The first stop is at an Icelandic wool outlet store, to see what they do with all those sheep! After, you continue inland to Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. You travel the Golden Circle route, see steam rising from the Geysir geothermal fields. The chef of the Restaurant Geysir invites you to taste freshly baked hot spring bread served with Icelandic butter, geothermally boiled eggs and herring. After, you travel admire the double waterfall of Gullfoss. In the afternoon, you learn about the Icelandic horse, its unique qualities and history and visit a geothermal greenhouse, before you reach the accommodation in South Iceland. Tonight, step into the darkness and search for the elusive Northern Lights, while best enjoyed from a comfortable hot tub in the garden of the hotel, amidst the peace and stillness of rural Iceland.

Day 5 - Natural Wonders of South Iceland & Eyjafjallajökull Volcano

Today you travel along the South coast. At the Lava & Volcano Exhibition Center, you learn about geology and active volcanoes. Further east, you visit one of Iceland’s finest folk museums. This museum contains an outstanding collection of farm and domestic artefacts from Iceland’s past and several turf-built houses. Nearby is Skógafoss waterfall which is 60 meters high and one of the most impressive waterfalls in the country. In the afternoon, take a stroll on the black lava beach and along bird cliffs at Reynisfjara in South Iceland. You spend 2 nights near Kirkjubæjarklaustur in the Vatnajökull National Park region, located in darkness and ideal for Northern Lights search.

Day 6 - Vatnajökull National Park & Glacier including Glacial Lagoon and Diamond Beach

Today’s program is all about glaciers, ice and icebergs. You travel to Jökulsárlón, a glacial lagoon filled with floating icebergs, and we explore the extraordinary site and might see seals swimming in arctic waters. You can walk on the black sandy beach, so-called Diamond beach, where large icebergs get stranded. In the afternoon, you visit the tiny turf church at Hof and spend time at Europe’s largest national park, which has Iceland’s highest mountains, an alpine environment, and Europe’s largest glacier. In the evening enjoy a film presentation about the Northern Lights as part of the Northern Lights Academy program. Be careful not to go to bed too soon in this remote and quiet location, or you may miss out one more chance of seeing the Northern Ligghts shimmering and dancing across the night sky.

Day 7 - South Shore, Reykjavík & Blue Lagoon

From Kirkjubæjarklaustur we head across the Eldhraun lava field to the village of Vík, where we make a photo stop. The black lava beach with high bird cliffs and pounding waves is awe-inspiring. Further west we reach the high but narrow Seljalandsfoss waterfall which plunges from the mountain. In the afternoon we get to soak in the famous Blue Lagoon. We reach Reykjavík around dinner time for one last night.

Day 8 - Departure day

Individual transfer by Flybus shuttle bus from your accommodation in Reykjavik to Keflavik International Airport.

Prices are FROM prices per person. Single supplement mandatory when in single room. All dates are guaranteed to depart.

Early bird price for departures from September 2025.

Important Information

Itineraries may be subject to change at short notice during severe weather conditions and certain outdoor activities/day trips may be cancelled during the winter season in Iceland. In these rare cases, where situations of force majeure apply, excursions/activities cannot be refunded but the local guides will try their best to find reasonable alternatives where and whenever possible.

Accommodations are subject to change.

Tour is not recommended for children younger than eight years of age. 20% discount for children 8-11 years of age if sharing room with 2 adults. Tour is not recommended for children younger than eight years of age. Triple rooms are double rooms with an extra bed and ideal for two adults and one child.

It is not possible to upgrade your accommodation on this tour. You can upgrade to a private transfer to and from the airport.

Iceland Stopover

5 days - Independent stopover tour of Iceland in the glory of summer.

Golden Circle & Northern Highlights - Winter

7 days - An independent winter tour of Iceland

Private Iceland Premium Short Tour

6 days - Winter tour of Iceland with Northern Lights focus and private tours

Interactive Tour Map

Visiting Hvammsvík Hotsprings

This new hot springs centre has eight natural hot springs that evolve into the ocean with temperatures ranging from ocean temperatures (around 10°C) to 42°C in the old original hot spring. It is included in many of our tours and has been awarded 'best thing to do in the world' by TIMEOUT magazine, 2023.

Best time for Northern Lights in Iceland

Iceland is world famous as a 'Northern Lights' travel destination. Between mid-September to early April each year, travellers flock to this island to search each evening for the magical lights in the sky.

Ultimate Guide to Reynisfjara Beach, Iceland

No-one has missed the beautiful black beaches of Iceland on Instagram. Wanting to know more about how to visit this spot? See our ultimate guide to Reynisfjara Beach, Iceland.

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Iceland: Reykjavík & the Northern Lights

4.6 out of 5 stars

You have up to 60 days to get a full refund

Feel good about putting a tour on the calendar today: Enroll in AutoPay or pay in full when you book, and if you change your mind,  you’ll get your money back .†

Watch the Land of Fire and Ice come to life in the winter light.

Is there anything like winter in Iceland? The sun creeps lower in the sky, occasional snowfall dusts Reykjavík, and the aurora borealis dances among the stars. This quick tour hits all the highlights, from the staggered columns of the Hallgrímskirkja church to the sparse expanse of West Iceland on the extension. And while we can’t guarantee you’ll see them, we’ll do everything we can to give you your moment with the northern lights.

Your tour package includes

• 4 nights in handpicked hotels
• 4 breakfasts
• 1 dinner with beer or wine
• 4 sightseeing tours

Included highlights

• The Golden Circle
• Great Geysir geothermal area
• Eyjafjallajökull volcano

An expert specializing in tours of this region is here to help.

Day-by-day itinerary

Board your overnight flight to Reykjavík today.

Welcome to Iceland! Meet your fellow travelers during a welcome lunch, then take the rest of the day to explore at your leisure. If you’re feeling peckish, check out Hlemmur Mathöll, a bus-station-turned-food-hall serving everything from Italian gelato to Danish smørrebrød, or open-faced sandwiches.

Alternatively, add an excursion—and what better way to decompress after an international flight than with a soak in the Blue Lagoon? The milky waters of this geothermal bath are prized for their restorative properties; go for a float and let them ease your post-travel tension.

Blue Lagoon Spa Visit

From $159 per person

Clean, green Reykjavík is part cosmopolitan capital, part Scandinavian fishing port. Take to its streets with your Tour Director today and get to know this one-of-a-kind city on a guided sightseeing tour.

• Build your mental map of Reykjavík at the Perlan, a glass-domed museum with a 360-degree observation deck. From your perch atop the Öskjuhlíð hill, you can see the city’s compact downtown, Faxa Bay, and twin mountains emerging from the horizon.
• See the stately Höfði—the house that hosted the 1986 summit between Ronald Reagan and Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev—before continuing to Bessastaðir. Distinguished by its rich, clay-colored roofing and simple, yet dignified, exterior, this home serves as the official residence of Iceland’s president.
• Head to Miðborg, the downtown neighborhood more simply known as the 101, to visit the Hallgrímskirkja. Reaching almost 245 feet into the sky at its peak, this church is one of the tallest buildings in the city—and with its breathtaking curved spire, it’s one of the most distinct, too.
• Pass the Alþingishúsið, home of the national parliament, and the lakeside City Hall before stopping at the National Gallery of Iceland to view the work of renowned local artists like Ásmundur Sveinsson and Einar Jónsson.

Afterward, linger a while in the Hljómskálagarðurinn, Reykjavík’s principal green space, or add an afternoon excursion to explore one of Iceland’s fantastical lava tubes—caves formed over time by magma flowing beneath a hardened crust.

Once the evening rolls in, reconvene and set off as a group in search of the aurora borealis—the northern lights. Make the hour-long journey out of Reykjavík to the Icelandic countryside (less light pollution means clearer skies!), settle in, and keep watch for those ephemeral shimmers.

Please note: The evening northern lights excursion is weather-dependent and seeing them isn’t guaranteed.

The Lava Tunnel

From $155 per person

Running for 190 miles across pristine landscapes, the Golden Circle encompasses some of Iceland’s most magnificent natural wonders. Today, you’ll board your bus and drive some of this famous route.

• Begin at the UNESCO-listed Þingvellir National Park, a 92-square-mile tract of volcanic rock and golden scrubland. You’ll see the original site of the Alþing—“Althing” in English—an open-air governmental assembly that was established in 930 and continued to meet until 1798.
• Sit down for an included lunch at Friðheimar, a farm that grows tantalizingly fresh tomatoes and other produce in a greenhouse heated by geothermal energy.
• Enter the Haukadalur, a valley teeming with geothermal activity, and explore the area surrounding the Great Geysir. You could say it’s the original Old Faithful: After all, the English word “geyser” is derived from its name. While it hasn’t erupted since 2016, its nearby cousin, Strokkur, hasn’t stopped, spouting into the air every five to 10 minutes.
• Marvel at Gullfoss, the Golden Waterfall that ranks as one of the most powerful in all of Europe. Some say its name comes from the legend of a Viking who dumped his treasure into its churning waters; others, the way the light catches the mist steaming off the cascade. Either way, it’s a sight to behold.

Don’t stop there. This evening, you’ll follow up natural beauty with a celestial show as you chase the northern lights outside of Reykjavík.

Please note: The evening northern lights search is weather-dependent and seeing them isn’t guaranteed.

Ready for more sensational sights? Embark on a journey to the South Coast, a lush lowland region filled to the brim with glimmering glaciers, black-sand beaches, and cozy villages.

• Eye the Eyjafjallajökull, an ice cap sitting atop an active volcano, then continue to the area’s famous beaches. Colored a deep, metallic black, their sands are the byproduct of centuries of eruptions and erosion. (And they make for stellar photos.)
• Park at the Seljalandsfoss, skirt the waterfall, and walk into a small cave behind it for a misty view of the surrounding plains.
• Marvel at the mighty Sólheimajökull. Spanning the gap between two volcanoes, this glacier’s moody blue ice makes it a popular hiking destination.

Celebrate your trip with your group at a farewell dinner this evening, served with beer or wine, and recount all your epic memories before turning in for the night.

Please note: The visit to Sólheimajökull is weather-dependent.

Transfer to the airport for your flight home. If you booked this trip’s extension, sleep in a little—there’s more exploring to do in the wondrous wilds of West Iceland.

While some of your companions will be making their way home today, you’ll be rolling out to West Iceland, a geographically diverse wonderland that inspired Viking writers and continues to captivate travelers like yourself.

• Walk a one-mile loop and watch as Deildartunguhver—Europe’s most powerful hot spring—bubbles and flows without end. Water gushes out of the ground at a piping-hot 207 degrees and is used for heating in nearby towns.
• Behold two waterfalls, different in scale: the Hraunfossar, with its kilometer-long series of gentle rivulets, and the Barnafoss, a rapid cascade that lies at the heart of a dark local legend.
• Visit Reykholt, a historic village that was home to Snorri Sturluson, a 13th-century author and two-time leader of the Althing. Then, make your way to the Langjökull—Iceland’s second-largest glacier. Drive along the ice cap in a specially modified truck, then walk through its interior ice tunnels.

Sit down for an included dinner this evening, served with beer or wine, and prepare for tomorrow’s return trip to Reykjavik.

Please note: Langjökull’s ice tunnels are tight, enclosed spaces. We recommend that travelers with claustrophobia refrain from entering them.

On your way back to Reykjavík, stop in the town of Borgarnes, set on a peninsula jutting into the Borgarfjörður fjord. There, you’ll visit The Settlement Center: Built in two of Borgarnes’ oldest buildings, it shines a light on Iceland’s early history and one of its most famous figures—the Viking poet, warrior, and (supposed) sorcerer Egil Skallagrímsson.

Transfer to the airport to board your flight home.

Book for just $99 down

That’s all it takes to secure your spot on tour with AutoPay. Then, pay for your trip in interest-free, monthly installments.†

Overall rating 4.6 out of 5

4 out of 5 stars

My favorite part of the tour was the event that was not listed on the itinerary. We were scheduled to go to the spa called Blue Lagoon, but concern for our safety and its proximity to the recently erupted volcano, we went to Sky Lagoon. This was the best part of the tour. I loved the size of Sky, a...

Hi Sue, We are delighted to hear that you enjoyed...

5 out of 5 stars

My daughter and I had a great time in Iceland. The tour director was excellent and knowledgeable and our bus driver was very accommodating and was an expert driver. The tour director ( Daniele) and bus Driver (George) went out of their way to keep us entertained and took us to extra places to make u...

Best vacation experience ever! The Icelandic people are wonderful and friendly. The scenery is amazing and other worldly. No place like it anywhere. Truly a land of contradictions. Fire and ice have shaped the landscape here, providing dramatic scenery. This will not be my last visit to Iceland. H...

Traveler photos

Hotels, flights & FAQ

This modern hotel is located in the Hlemmur neighborhood. Guests enjoy a spa, bar, and restaurant. Nearby you’ll find the Sun Voyager sculpture, Hallg...

This modern luxury hotel is located in Húsafell in Iceland’s central highlands. Guests enjoy a pool, restaurant, and bar and lounge. Nearby, you’ll fi...

• Round-trip flight for your tour
• Airport transfers at your destination
• A great price locked in today
• 24/7 support from our dedicated service team
• Options for arriving early, staying longer, or requesting an upgrade
• Flexible rebooking options if your tour itinerary changes
• Find out more about flights
• In order to enter Iceland, U.S. and Canadian citizens need a valid passport with an expiration date extending at least six months beyond the date of reentry.
• We recommend having at least one blank passport page for entry stamps.
• Beginning in 2025, U.S. and Canadian passport holders must register for an ETIAS travel authorization in order to enter many European countries.
• Passport holders from over 60 visa-exempt countries (including the U.S. and Canada) will need to apply for an ETIAS travel authorization in order to visit 30 European countries. That means that even if you’ve previously traveled to any of these European countries without a visa, starting in 2025, you’ll need to get ETIAS authorization to visit them again. If you’re traveling to multiple countries with this requirement, you only need to complete the form once. All Go Ahead travelers are responsible for obtaining their own ETIAS travel authorization before departure. For more details, please visit our Help Center .
• If you are not a U.S. or Canadian citizen, you must contact each country’s consulate for your specific entry requirements.
• You can see the most up-to-date entry requirements for the destination(s) you’ll visit on tour by going to goaheadtours.com/entry-requirements and searching the code ICL.
• Round-trip flights booked through Go Ahead Tours arrive in and depart from Reykjavik.
• Transfers to and from the airport at your destination are included for travelers who have purchased their flights through Go Ahead Tours. Travelers who purchase their own flights may request airport transfers with Go Ahead Tours for an additional cost if they are arriving or departing on the standard day.
• When you arrive in Reykjavik, a Go Ahead representative will be waiting for you in the arrivals hall with a Go Ahead sign or a sign with your name(s). If you don’t see a representative immediately, please be patient and stay in the arrivals area. They may be assisting another traveler who has also just arrived and will be back shortly.
• Depending on the time of year, some travelers may be required to spend an extra night in the U.S. before boarding their connecting flight home. In these cases, Go Ahead Tours will reserve your hotel and you'll arrive home one day after the last day of the tour.

Physical Activity Level

This is a high physical activity-level tour. You can expect to be on the move on a regular basis throughout the course of the tour.

Tour Pacing

This is a very fast-paced tour. The pace of a tour itinerary considers how often you’ll switch hotels, the amount of planned daily activities, and how you’ll get from place to place. You can expect:

• Most days and evenings full of included activities (more if you add excursions)
• All transportation by motor coach
• Daily bus time varies and can be lengthy

Walking, Terrain & Physical Requirements

• Travelers should be prepared to walk 2-3 miles per day - this includes city streets, unpaved paths, icy terrain, stairs, and hills.
• Travelers should be healthy enough to participate in all included walks without assistance.
• Please Note: Adding optional excursions may increase the total amount of walking on your tour

Climate Considerations

• The winter season in Iceland occurs between October and March. It's strongly recommended that travelers are prepared for wet, windy and cold climate conditions.
• Weather can change quickly and frequently during this season. Travelers should be prepared for sudden changes to the itinerary to accommodate unfavorable weather.
• Daylight is limited during the winter; December sees on average only 4.5 hours of sunlight each day.

Physical Activity & Tour Pace Questions

• Go Ahead Tours and the Tour Director who accompanies your group are unable to provide special mobility or luggage handling assistance to travelers on tour. The responsibility of the Tour Director is to ensure the group enjoys a smooth and informative journey, and they can’t be relied on to provide individualized assistance to any one traveler.
• This tour moves at a reasonable pace to avoid missing scheduled stops. The rest of the group cannot miss any scheduled activities because of the needs of an individual.
• Due to the pace and physical activity level of this tour, mobility aids such as wheelchairs or walkers will be difficult to use and are not recommended. Please notify Go Ahead Tours before your departure if you plan to bring these on tour with you.
• If you have mobility concerns or tour pace questions, please visit our Help Center or send a message to our Customer Experience Team. We’re here to help!
• Most transportation on this tour is by private motor coach. Private motor coaches have steps required to board and often do not provide access to ramps or lifts.
• Please note that our travelers are limited to one checked bag and one carry-on bag per person due to storage limitations on motor coaches.
• A checked bag may not be included in your airline ticket.
• Some airlines may impose additional charges if you choose to check any baggage or exceed baggage size and weight restrictions. Be advised that you are responsible for any baggage fees incurred on all flights.
• Contact your airline(s) for baggage size and weight restrictions for your flights.
• Make sure you label your baggage and keep valuables, medication, and documents in your carry-on bag.
• Travelers must manage their own luggage throughout tour as porters are not guaranteed. This includes at hotels.
• Winters in Iceland are generally cold. To ensure you’re comfortable for outdoor sightseeing and evening northern lights excursions, we recommend packing a warm coat, hat, gloves, winter socks, as well as rainwear.
• A warm sturdy pair of walking shoes or winter boots is strongly recommended for sightseeing. You may also want to consider bringing ice cleats for better traction.
• We also suggest packing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that can easily be layered. Avoid wearing cotton whenever possible, as it is an ineffective insulator.
• You may want to pack dressier attire if you plan to visit a high-end restaurant or attend a special performance.
• We recommend packing a reusable water bottle to cut down on single use plastic waste.
• We recommend packing a universal adapter, as well as a voltage converter if you plan on using your own hairdryer or other device without a built-in converter.
• We recommend packing your Insurance Card (from your primary insurance provider) in your carry on luggage.
• Go Ahead handpicks every hotel to strike the balance of comfort, location, and local charm.
• Accommodations are typically three to four star hotels.
• All accommodations include a private bathroom.
• Most rooms will include a safe for valuables.
• Your hotels will have Wifi, but it may be limited to common areas.
• Elevators in hotels are not guaranteed.
• Some hotels on this tour require travelers to walk with their luggage a few blocks as buses cannot drop travelers off right out front.
• Please be advised that the strength of the air conditioning in European hotels/buildings is often not as strong or as cool as what you might be used to in the U.S. or Canada.
• Iceland operates on 230 volts and uses Types C or F plugs with two round pins.
• We cannot guarantee that your hotel accommodations will have laundry services or facilities. We recommend checking directly with the hotel once they are confirmed about 30 days prior to departure.
• Specific accommodations will vary based on your departure date.
• Excursions are available for purchase prior to departure, and most excursions will be available for purchase while you are on tour directly through your mobile app for an additional $10 USD.
• We recommend purchasing excursions at least 3 days prior to your tour departure. Please note some excursions have advance booking deadlines. Check your tour itinerary for more information to ensure you don’t miss the deadline to add them.
• Optional excursions may be canceled on tour due to reasons like low enrollment, weather or unexpected closures. If an excursion you signed up for is canceled by Go Ahead Tours, you will be refunded the full cost of the excursion. Please note it may take up to 60 days for your refund to be processed.
• Your Tour Director may offer their own optional excursions which can only be purchased on tour via cash (in local currency).
• At least 60 days prior to departure, check with your doctor or healthcare provider for the latest updates and entry requirements, or visit the Center for Disease Control and Prevention website at cdc.gov .
• If you have medication that you take daily, be sure you have enough for each day of the tour as well as any possible delays encountered.
• If you have dietary restrictions and/or food allergies please notify Go Ahead Tours at least 30 days prior to departure by logging in to your account and updating your traveler info. To update this information closer to your departure date, please contact our Customer Experience Team.
• The water is safe to drink throughout your tour unless posted otherwise.
• This tour includes two lunches and one dinner. Included meals may be plated set menus, buffet or family style depending on the location. Dinners include one glass of beer, wine, or soft drink and water, coffee and tea.
• Breakfast each morning is also included at the hotel and is typically buffet style with hot and cold options.
• Icelandic cuisine relies on traditional, locally sourced ingredients from the Atlantic ocean and the surrounding mountains. Both fresh and dried fish, including herring, cod, and shark, are important culinary staples. Other must-tries include Icelandic lamb, which is considered to be some of the best in the world, as well as pylsa (hot dogs) and skyr cheese.
• The included lunch at Fridheimar Farm typically includes the Friðheimar Tomato Soup served on a buffet with sour cream, home baked bread, cucumber salsa, butter and fresh herbs. Beverages include unlimited water and one soft drink.
• At the conclusion of your tour, it is customary to offer your Tour Director and driver a gratuity in local currency. Please keep current exchange rates in mind.
• We recommend tipping the equivalent of $10-$12USD per person per day for your Tour Director and the equivalent of $3USD per person per day for your driver.
• If applicable, we also recommend the equivalent of $2USD per local guide.
• Tips can only be paid in cash.
• The cost of porterage is included in your tour price, and it is not necessary to tip baggage handlers.
• You will use the Icelandic krona on tour.
• Better rates of exchange are usually available overseas, although it’s worth ordering some currency from your local bank to use when you first arrive.
• We strongly advise that you take debit/bank cards and credit cards, which can be used to withdraw cash at local banks as needed.
• You can use most debit/credit cards at ATMs on the international networks Cirrus and Plus, but make sure to check with your home bank about withdrawal fees.
• International banks and businesses primarily accept debit and credit cards that work with the EMV chip system. If you do not already have at least one debit or credit card with a chip in it, we strongly recommend requesting one from your bank prior to your tour.
• Plan ahead and bring cash to tip your tour director, local guides, and bus drivers. We also recommend keeping coins in the local currency on hand, as some public bathrooms may charge a fee for use.
• To ensure you feel prepared before traveling on tour, we strongly recommend you download the EF Go Ahead Tours mobile app. The app is free and provides important deadlines, entry requirements, your detailed itinerary, packing tips and more. You can also connect with fellow travelers through the chat feature in the app.
• Wifi is available in most hotels, though some charges may apply.
• There is no Wifi on any of the motor coaches.
• Please contact your mobile service provider for information on roaming charges.
• Your Tour Director will be leading your group throughout your journey. You will have the same Tour Director throughout your tour.
• The role of the Tour Director is not only to provide information and context on the destinations you visit, but also to confirm services, coordinate inclusions, prepare each days’ activities and support travelers while on tour. As such, they must focus on the success of the group, and cannot provide individualized assistance to any one traveler.
• One of the benefits of traveling with EF Go Ahead Tours is our on tour emergency support team.
• Our extensive network of offices around the world, and our integration of ISO 31000: Risk Management Guidelines, help our dedicated 24/7 Emergency Service teams anticipate and address on-tour challenges in a flexible and iterative way.
• This team supports travelers and Tour Directors using a combination of extensive training, simulations, incident response planning, and decades of experience to help manage emergencies if they arise, ranging from personal health concerns or injuries to major world events.
• As needed, On Tour Support can facilitate additional support for travelers on tour, arrange assistance from outside specialists, and liaise with local and international authorities to help solve on-the-ground issues. In addition, the team is dedicated to supporting and facilitating communication between travelers and families in the event of an emergency while on the road or at home.
• Iceland is one hour behind Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and four hours ahead of Eastern Time (ET).
• When it’s noon in New York City, it’s 4pm in Iceland.
• When you travel with EF Go Ahead Tours, you’ll make a positive impact on the places you visit, and the people and animals you meet along the way. That’s because our three core Responsible Travel commitments—protecting the environment, supporting local communities, and promoting animal welfare—are at the heart of every tour we offer.
• Travel, when done responsibly, can make an enormous socio-economic impact to communities. To maximize your impact, eat at locally owned restaurants and shop at local businesses. Ask your Tour Director to point out restaurants they recommend.
• Prepare for your trip: be aware of the monetary norms such as tipping and negotiating in a market, learn about the destination’s forms of etiquette, and take some time to learn a few words in the local language.
• When interacting with locals, make sure to ask people for permission before you take their picture, and approach cultural differences with empathy and an open mind.
• EF Go Ahead Tours encourages our travelers to limit their waste while on the road, especially single use plastics. You can avoid single use plastics by packing your own toiletries, using electronic documents, and bringing a reusable water bottle and shopping bag. If you need to use plastics or paper, please recycle.
• Environment: On this tour, we recommend the use of a reusable water bottle, as the local drinking water is safe for travelers. Your Tour Director can provide additional guidance on local water standards. Make sure to bring a reusable water bottle to cut down on single use plastics.
• Environment: When visiting national parks, reserves, or other protected areas, please do not remove anything from the natural environment or leave any litter. Carry out what you carried in.
• Animal Welfare: Take the philosophies of World Animal Protection to heart during included tour activities and your free time. Do not touch, do not feed, and maintain a respectful distance from wild animals. Wild animals encountered on tour should be able to exhibit natural forms of behavior. If you feel we are not meeting these commitments, please share your feedback with us.
• Animal Welfare: Avoid buying any exploitative wildlife products such as tortoise shell or shark fin soup.

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Where and when to see the northern lights in 2024

Now is the perfect time to plan a northern lights trip

• North America
• Viewing from home

When to see the northern lights

Northern lights forecasts.

Nothing quite beats seeing the northern lights, or aurora borealis, in all their glory. But where and when can you see them? 

Lucky for us the next few years are going to be the best for seeing the northern lights due to heightened solar activity as we approach "solar maximum" in the current solar cycle.

So if you are planning a trip to see the northern lights now is the time to do it. Not sure where to go? Here we have rounded up some of the best places to see auroras around the world. 

Related: Aurora colors: What causes them and why do they vary?  

The northern lights are created when energized particles from the sun slam into Earth's upper atmosphere at speeds of up to 45 million mph (72 million kph), but our planet's magnetic field protects us from energetic assault.

As Earth's magnetic field redirects the particles toward the poles the dramatic process transforms into a cinematic atmospheric phenomenon that dazzles and fascinates scientists and skywatchers alike. The southern lights, or aurora australis, are produced in the same way. 

We asked Tom Kerss, astronomy, author and northern lights expert what three pieces of advice he would give to someone wanting to see the northern lights. 

Tom Kerss is an astronomer and the author of numerous best-selling books about the night sky for both adults and children, including Northern Lights , Diamonds Everywhere and the Starry Stories Series .  

What are your top tips for seeing the northern lights?

1. Unless you're lucky enough to have the lights come to you, seeing auroras is a matter of being in the right place at the right time. Fortunately, we can forecast where and when they are likely to become visible, so you can increase your odds. Being in Norway between late September and mid-March, during the darkest, moonless nights, and being mobile will greatly improve your chances. 

2. It's important to persevere! The arctic nights can be extremely cold, but you'll need to push yourself and stay up late to make the most of the auroral zone. On good nights, the Lights are visible as soon as it gets dark, but you should try to stay up until after midnight.

3. Taking your own photographs of the Northern Lights is so alluring, and very rewarding. Today's cameras — including smartphones — capture super, colourful and clear shots. But try not to get too carried away. Make sure you absorb the luminosity, colour and subtle movement of the Lights with your own eyes. You'll make pictures in your mind that you can't share, but you can feel!

What is your favorite aurora fact?

My favorite fact about auroras is that they appear not only on Earth, but on many other worlds. Every planet in the Solar System (except Mercury) exhibits auroras, as do several moons and even a comet! Moreover, we've measured auroras on other stars, and possibly even exoplanets, and they can teach us about the environments and interiors of these remote worlds.  

Where to see the northern lights in Europe

If you live in Europe, the easiest thing to do is head to the far northern parts of Norway, Sweden, Iceland and Finland. Many local people speak English in those regions and there are lots of tours available.

Wherever you plan on going, bear in mind that cloudy skies may make it difficult to catch auroras on any one particular night. If possible, leave yourself extra time to accommodate inclement weather.

Here is a list of some possible European northern lights trips and tour providers:

Hurtigruten Coastal Express

Bergen — Kirkenes — Bergen 

Price: From £2942pp, includes breakfast, lunch and dinner + exclusive excursion to the Tromsø planetarium.

Duration: 12 days 

Northern Lights Promise :  If there is no recorded sighting of the northern lights while sailing, Hurtigruten will give guests a free 6- or 7-day Classic Voyage to redeem the following season. Terms and Conditions apply.

If you're interested in booking the Astronomy Voyage head over to Hurtigruten's official site .

If you're looking for the ultimate skywatching and cultural experience in Norway, we recommend taking the Hurtigruten Coastal Express along the stunning Norwegian Coast. 

There are a number of voyages available as well as specialized " Astronomy Voyages " that include additional astronomy lectures from an onboard astronomer and a visit to Tromsø's impressive planetarium and science center. 

You can read more about what it's like to experience the Hurtigruten Astronomy Voyage in our article . 

The Northern Lights Company

The Northern Lights Company based in stunning Vesterålen, Norway, offers various 4, 5 or 7-night northern lights trips between September and April. 

All tours include transport, accommodation, aurora chasing by night as well as daytime activities so guests not only get to see beautiful Norway but also experience it. 

From eagle safaris and visits to the local Sami Reindeer farm to aurora research at the Andøy Space Centre and photography trips. There is something for everyone with the Northern Lights Company.

Visit Tromsø

Visit Tromsø sells aurora-watching trips around the city of Tromsø in Norway. The largest urban area in Northern Norway and the world's third largest city above the Arctic Circle, Tromsø lies just within the Northern Lights Oval, the region above Earth's geomagnetic North Pole where aurora displays are most likely to occur.

Visit Tromsø sells 'aurora chases,' dynamic night hunts for aurora displays in the aurora season between September and April, and slower-paced 'experiences' such as dog-sled and boat trips and overnight stays at aurora hotspots. Tromsø can be accessed by plane from Norway's capital Oslo; adventure seekers are sometimes rewarded by an aurora display during their incoming flight.

Lights over Lapland

Lights over Lapland sells a range of aurora-watching packages that take skywatchers to Sweden's northernmost region, Lapland. Lapland straddles the border between Sweden and Finland, with both sides offering excellent aurora viewing opportunities in winter months and the midnight sun experience in summer. 

Lights over Lapland operates on the Swedish side of the border with most of its tours aiming for Abisko National Park (not far from the Esrange Space Center which runs rocket tests for ESA and is gearing up to perform the first satellite launches from continental Europe).

"Abisko has developed a reputation for being the No. 1 aurora-watching destination on the planet, due to the fact that it is located in a very special microclimate with less precipitation than any other location on Earth that is located within the aurora zone," photographer Chad Blakley, who is a co-founder of Lights over Lapland, told Space.com via email. 

If you want to see what it's like to chase auroras in Swedish Lapland check out our article on what it's like to put Abisko's "cloud-busting weapon" to the test . 

Guide to Iceland

Guide to Iceland sells a range of aurora-watching packages on the North Atlantic island, including bus tours, boat tours and hunting trips. Situated just below the Arctic Circle, Iceland provides a decent chance of catching the Northern Lights during winter months. If that doesn't work out, you can instead relax in the island's powerful natural hot springs and outdoor pools.

Viatour northern lights night tour from Reykjavik

Viatour operates evening aurora-watching trips from Iceland's capital Reykjavik. The bus tour takes tourists across the island to its most popular aurora spots. The operator says that those who don't get to see the northern lights during their trip can join again at no additional cost. 

Arctic Adventures

Arctic Adventures offers a large number of tours from day trips to multi-day excursions to experience the very best of Iceland. There is a range of northern lights tours available whether it be traveling by bus, boat, or multi-day hiking tours. Experience the majestic northern lights with Arctic Adventures and make memories that will last a lifetime.

Where to see the northern lights in North America

If you're interested in trying to photograph the northern lights check out our guides on how to photograph auroras , as well as the best equipment for aurora photography .

There are plenty of options for good aurora viewing in North America. While far-eastern Canada tends to be cloudy, the shore of the Hudson Bay, the northern Canadian towns of Yellowknife or Whitehorse, or the west coast of Alaska are usually good bets. (The city of Fairbanks itself can be a great choice for seeing northern lights without needing to go too far in the wilderness.)

Alaska Tours

Alaska Tours offers a range of packages from one-day trips to week-long tours that take visitors past the Arctic Circle to the heart of Alaska's wilderness, where the chance of catching the glowing auroras is among the best in the world. 

Aurora Borealis Yukon  

Aurora Borealis Yokon runs one-day to five-day aurora-watching trips in the Yukon territory in northwestern Canada. A direct neighbor of Alaska, Yukon offers pretty much the same aurora-observing conditions during the winter months.

Churchill Arctic Adventures

In the east, Churchill Arctic Adventures offers trips to Churchill, Manitoba, on the western shores of Hudson Bay. The company operates dedicated 'aurora domes,' heated cabins and other outposts in the boreal forest that allow visitors to observe the magnificent lights in perfect comfort. If the aurora doesn't show up, then perhaps some of the polar bears residing in this region may. 

Can I see the northern lights from my home?

If you capture an amazing photo of the northern lights and would like to share it with Space.com and our news partners for a story or gallery, send images to [email protected].  

The "standard" aurora borealis, observable in the Arctic regions, is generated by the solar wind , which constantly flows toward Earth. It manifests itself into a large "ring" above Earth's geomagnetic North Pole and is known as the aurora oval. 

During times of heightened solar activity, the aurora oval can expand more southern latitudes. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Space Weather Prediction Center maintains a detailed 30-minute aurora forecast where you can see the predicted extent of the auroral oval and the probability of auroras. The aurora borealis is visible most nights, weather permitting, within a band several hundred miles wide that's centered at about 66 degrees north — about the same latitude as the Arctic Circle.

But geomagnetic storms, caused by coronal mass ejections (CME), can ramp up the northern lights considerably and make them visible over much wider areas. In early November 2023, for example, a powerful geomagnetic storm sparked auroras as far south as Greece and Turkey .

Related: Aurora myths, legends and misconceptions

As the solar cycle intensifies, such occurrences might become more common (or rather, slightly less rare). We recommend keeping an eye on Spaceweather.com for alerts of possible incoming geomagnetic storms as well as NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center . 

Yet even the most powerful geomagnetic storm will fail to deliver the experience unless other factors cooperate — a cloud-free sky, not too much moonlight, nighttime hours and absence of light pollution. (City-dwellers have to get out into the countryside for an aurora experience no matter how strong the geomagnetic storm supercharging the sky might be.)

But you can have an aurora experience without even leaving your house if you so choose. Our northern lights webcams article offers aurora views from some iconic locations from across Europe and North America, all in one place. 

If you're planning an aurora-viewing trip, the best time is throughout the winter months. Anytime between late September to late March is a good time for northern lights hunting as the long nights provide ample aurora viewing opportunities.

The good news is that the sun's approximately 11-year solar cycle of solar activity is ramping up as we approach solar maximum. This means that the next few years will be the perfect time to plan a northern lights adventure.

The northern lights can appear for long periods or short bursts lasting only a few minutes (if that!) so the best way to see them is to wrap up warm, and wait. I have been on several northern lights hunts and sometimes they can appear when you least expect, so unless you're already outside and ready, you'll miss them completely. For me, the wait is all part of the experience, especially when you're out aurora hunting with other like-minded individuals. It provides the perfect opportunity to share aurora stories, do a spot of stargazing and simply enjoy the shared experience of the night sky . 

You can get an idea of how active the northern lights are likely to be in your area by keeping tabs on a short-term aurora forecast, such as the one provided by the Geophysical Institute . One predicting the next half hour is available on NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Website . Also, a citizen science website called Aurorasaurus gives on-the-ground instant information from aurora enthusiasts wanting to alert the community to new sky shows.

Join our Space Forums to keep talking space on the latest missions, night sky and more! And if you have a news tip, correction or comment, let us know at: [email protected].

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Daisy Dobrijevic joined Space.com in February 2022 having previously worked for our sister publication All About Space magazine as a staff writer. Before joining us, Daisy completed an editorial internship with the BBC Sky at Night Magazine and worked at the National Space Centre in Leicester, U.K., where she enjoyed communicating space science to the public. In 2021, Daisy completed a PhD in plant physiology and also holds a Master's in Environmental Science, she is currently based in Nottingham, U.K. Daisy is passionate about all things space, with a penchant for solar activity and space weather. She has a strong interest in astrotourism and loves nothing more than a good northern lights chase! 

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• dcr66 To be honest I have never paid explicitly for some tours to see Northern Lights. They are more visible than you think and you just need to know when. I do know people that pay $$ to go see these things in Norway. Then I showed them the pics I took from a plane window. If you are flying from North America to Europe the great circle route usually takes you up to Greenland and Iceland. If the flight is night time, then get a window seat on the left side of the plane. Don't sleep and keep your eyes peeled when you are up there. Very likely you will see the green curtains easily up near the horizon. My daughter despite never seen them before saw it flying to Europe. Same can be done if your route takes you over Anchorage Alaska, the right side of the plane. I used to see it all the time on the fueling stopover to Anchorage AK back in the 80s and 90s. Less likely these days except on certain China based airlines. The polar route from North America to Asia that goes over the North Pole. You should be able to see the green curtains on either side when you are in the artic circle. The Prairies in Canada but avoid the summer because you will be in astronomic twilight essentially. I lived in Winnipeg for some years in the 1980s and I see them all the time. All kinds including the white sheet that cover the whole sky and bright enough to read. Reply
• michael'Buzz'collins Yes, luckily some only have to travel a short distance out to your back door! As Recently the Aurora Borealis, thankfully (no clouds 🙏)was able to be viewed in NW Donegal, Eire As I recently saw the repeat of Alexander Armstrongs Iceland visit on RTE ( as I missed it on ch5) So wasn't expecting to see this wonderful cosmic display!! Here are a few pictures that people took from their backyard from Burtonport to Buncrana, Inc Churchill, As I see another Churchill featured below in Manitoba as if seeing the Northern Lights isn't enough, it's program on Ch4/BBC has featured it as it has the most concentration of polar bears too (, because of the ice melting!) https://www.facebook.com/162517790452520/posts/pfbid031eTNJrFWY791rydpEhMDQDUyvGh3pnKZfgwKsK7VRTYwjGdSXZoTHaFdSfUvQNUVl/?sfnsn=mo https://www.facebook.com/1580520814/posts/pfbid033woQiJnL5XpYNoweeEznauNbSjQNJDxSSMxvzE7RxrrxoAwS7kbrTYPnDvZHKgBRl/?sfnsn=mo Simply outta this world,so to say😇 Reply
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Reykjavik, Iceland Travel Guide: Explore The Culture Beyond The Northern Lights

F or a destination that’s equal parts enchanting and otherworldly, look no further than Reykjavik, Iceland. The charming capital city offers a unique blend of adventure and relaxation amidst stunning landscapes and the ethereal Northern Lights. Nature lovers, art enthusiasts and foodies can all find something to enjoy in this destination.

• Best time to travel: June to August (peak season), October to April (off-season), May to June and September to October (shoulder season)
• Time zone: Greenwich Mean Time (GMT)
• Currency: ISK (Icelandic Króna or kr)
• Noteworthy: Winter Lights Festival (February), Reykjavik Jazz Festival (August), Culture Night or Menningarnótt (August), Reykjavik International Film Festival or RIFF (September), Iceland Airwaves (November)
• Best for: Culture & History, Art & Music Festivals, Adventure Enthusiasts, Nature Lovers, Northern Lights Chasers

Play: Things To Do In The Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik food walk – local foodie adventure in iceland.

The Reykjavik Food Walk in Iceland is a must for foodie travelers seeking a true taste of Iceland. This 3-hour guided walking tour immerses guests in Reykjavik’s rich culinary local scene. Guests will savor eight or more delectable Icelandic dishes across four to six local spots from food trucks to fine-dining spots. The food walk includes passing iconic landmarks, like Parliament House and the Hallgrimskirkja. Along with the tastings, each walk has a knowledgeable guide that shares local history as guests indulge in Icelandic hot dogs, cheeses, homemade ice cream and more.

Northern Lights Tour from Reykjavik with PRO photos

As one of Iceland’s highest-rated tours, the Northern Lights Tour from Reykjavik with PRO photos is the ultimate excursion. Visitors will witness the iconic Northern Lights while enjoying complimentary homemade hot chocolate, warm wool blankets and mouthwatering cinnamon buns. Capture memories with free high-quality photos of guests and the lights. With a small family-run company, unmatched service by expert local guides, this tour guarantees the best shot to marvel at the Northern Lights.

The Original Classic Whale Watching from Reykjavik

The ultimate Icelandic itinerary has to include The Original Classic Whale Watching from Reykjavik. Visitors encounter majestic humpback, orca, blue and minke whales, as they venture into the heart of their natural habitat aboard a cruise. Guided by marine experts, this tour ensures there is minimal disturbance to these remarkable creatures as guests see the Faxafloi Bay’s currents renowned for prime whale watching. There’s no fear of embracing the elements with provided overalls, raincoats and blankets. There’s free WiFi and admission to the Wildlife Exhibition onboard.

Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon Including Admission & Kerid Volcanic Crater

Visiting Iceland means booking a comprehensive day trip to the Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon Including Admission & Kerid Volcanic Crater. In a small group, explore Thingvellir, Geysir Hot Spring, Gullfoss waterfall and the stunning Kerid crater. The country’s natural wonders can be seen from the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle with free WiFi. The day concludes by unwinding in the rejuvenating geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon. While food and drinks aren’t covered, scheduled stops provide opportunities for refreshments and a complimentary drink at the Blue Lagoon.

Icelandic Horseback Riding Tour from Reykjavik

The Icelandic Horseback Riding Tour from Reykjavik is an exhilarating excursion that connects nature, culture and community. Guests will see the captivating landscapes of Iceland on this guided tour. Ideal for both beginners and experienced riders, this adventure offers a unique way to explore the country’s remote wonders. This tour is thoughtfully tailored to personal riding proficiency. For a comfortable experience, there is coffee, tea or hot chocolate provided. All equipment, including helmets, rubber boots, rain gear, and warm overalls, is complimentary.

Gourmet: Best Restaurants In Reykjavik, Iceland

Matur og drykkur (food or drink).

Matur og Drykkur, Icelandic for food or drink, creates classical Icelandic cuisine with a modern flair. This family restaurant is committed to reinventing recipes sourced from historic Icelandic cookbooks with their own twist. Using only the finest local ingredients, every element of the menu is freshly homemade. It is housed within a historic Salt Fish factory by the harbor, which creates a cultured ambiance. Enjoy the local Icelandic classic by booking a table and indulging in their six-course Chef’s dining experience.

Baka Baka is a two-level bakery and restaurant that shares the best of both worlds with guests. By day, visitors can indulge in delectable pastries and freshly baked bread while sipping aromatic coffee from their bakery. As the sun sets, this spot transforms into a restaurant with delicious fire-baked pizzas, pasta and a selection of exceptional natural wines. From sunrise to sunset, BakaBaka is a culinary journey that’s worth a breakfast or lunch date.

The harmony of the Nordic-Italian fusion concept at Mat Bar in Reykjavik is one-of-a-kind. Nestled in the heart of the city, this chef-driven gem offers seasonal tapas that delight the taste buds. Guests can enjoy a deliciously baked cheese flatbread drizzled with wasabi honey and walnuts, then a mozzarella di bufala tapas with pickled tomatoes and basil, and finish with an indulgent affogato of espresso and vanilla ice cream. The art of blending flavors creates a dining experience that’s unique to Icelandic culture.

Sweet Aurora

With a mission to share French culinary delights, pastry chef and owner Aurora created the delectable fusion of Icelandic charm and French pastry mastery that is Sweet Aurora in Reykjavik. The menu includes classics like lemon meringue tart, Tonka bean cream-filled chocolate eclairs, and apricot macarons with rosemary-white chocolate ganache. There are seasonal twists, like “volcano macarons,” with smoked chocolate ganache. The all-female team also crafts custom seasonal delights to order, like Fraisier cake and strawberry tart.

Kaffivagninn

The heart of Reykjavik’s culinary history can be found nestled in the Old Harbour at Kaffivagninn. Opened in 1935, it’s the oldest restaurant in Iceland. This charming breakfast and lunch spot lets travelers mingle with locals over scrumptious meals. Weekdays offer a 7 a.m. to 11 a.m., breakfast featuring delightful chia porridge. On weekends from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., brunch platters are loaded with savory and sweet variety, or opt for pancake and French toast platters. The menu includes Icelandic specialties, like smoked trout omelets, fish stew gratin and Danish-style butter breads with a selection of traditional spreads.

Stay: Best Places to Stay in Reykjavik, Iceland

Spacious lovely icelandic flat by the sea.

There is a Spacious Lovely Icelandic Flat By The Sea in the highly sought-after Vesturbær neighborhood. This Airbnb spot is a 15 to 20-minute stroll downtown complemented by a walking path across a scenic shoreline. Guests can enjoy easy access to the local swimming pool, coffee houses, restaurants, bakeries and gourmet food stores. The newly renovated apartment has a modern kitchen, an open layout with ceiling-high openings, and abundant natural light. The generous living space and two large bedrooms accommodate single and medium groups of up to 5 people. Guests can easily stay connected with free WiFi and unwind with both Apple TV and Netflix. 

Cheerful Newly Renovated Downtown Apartment

The Cheerful Newly Renovated Downtown Apartment in the heart of Reykjavik is a 3-bedroom Airbnb gem. Mere steps from the iconic Hallgrímskirkja Church, it is a 4-minute walk to top-tier swimming pools and neighbors Iceland’s premier organic bakeries.  All of the city’s finest dining, entertainment and attractions are within walking distance. Preferably, quieter guests looking for a more peaceful stay would enjoy this stay with a serene atmosphere that is family-friendly. Be mindful of the noise restrictions after 11 p.m., and it is a smoke-free environment, so be mindful of that when booking a stay. 

The Kex Hostel is housed in a former biscuit factory and uses salvaged materials and found treasures. The vintage-industrial aesthetics with a contemporary twist adds to the authenticity of the space. They have dorms and rooms for up to 215 guests plus a bar, restaurant, lounge and heated patio for guest use. Local cafes, museums, shops, and music venues are a short walk away from the city center. It is a truly unique stay with an eclectic library and reading lounge, two guest kitchens, a heated outdoor patio and access to 24/7 reception. They have on-site eats, like the brand new pop-up bar & restaurant, FLATUS, and their breakfast buffet called BAXTUR.

Get Away: Getting To and Around Reykjavik, Iceland

By air .

The main gateway to reach Reykjavik, Iceland is Keflavik International Airport. It is located about 31 miles southwest of the city center. Various airlines offer direct flights from major cities worldwide. Before landing, travelers can see truly stunning aerial views of Iceland’s rugged landscapes. There are efficient transportation options from the airport to Reykjavik for easier travel and more sightseeing from the airport.

Navigating Reykjavik, Iceland with a car is simple enough with multiple rental companies available. The well-maintained roads and clear signage make Reykjavik convenient and efficient to get around. The city also is fairly compact, so there’s easy access to cultural sites, cozy cafes and bustling local markets. Having a personal car grants flexibility for unforgettable day trips to natural wonders. Some options to explore are the Blue Lagoon, the Golden Circle, and the most mesmerizing Icelandic waterfalls. There’s an unparalleled freedom to venturing out into the city.

By Public Transit

The public transit system in Reykjavik has well-connected bus routes that link to key landmarks, neighborhoods and attractions. Acquiring a Reykjavik City Card grants unlimited access to buses for a more cost-effective and hassle-free trip. The compact size of the city makes it easy to find the more popular points of interest. Visitors can easily immerse in the local culture from museums and galleries to local markets.

Explore Reykjavik, Iceland on Foot

One way to absorb the city’s unique ambiance is by exploring Reykjavik on foot. With a small-town feel and a big-city personality, the region offers architectural gems, cozy cafes, and boutique shops within walking distance of most accommodations. Strolling through the charming street provides an intimate glimpse into local life. The pedestrian friendly streets create a deeper connection to the culture, history and modernity that makes Reykjavik an ideal Northern European destination.

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easyJet offers flights from Manchester to Akureyri in North Iceland

The British airline easyJet announced today that it will offer flights from both London and Manchester to Akureyri next winter. The announcement follows a successful winter for easyJet, which offered flights from London to Akureyri for the first time. Flights will operate on Saturdays and Tuesdays from Manchester and London.

Considering the nationalities of tourists who have visited Iceland in the past decade, it is evident that Britons are the most numerous during the winter season. This plays a significant role in easyJet's decision to offer direct flights to North Iceland, but the main factor is the destination itself, the airline's confidence in it and the demand for visits here. Additionally, locals have welcomed the opportunity to travel directly to the UK and beyond with numerous connection options at London Gatwick, which will further increase with flights to Manchester.

"We have a strong destination"

"EasyJet flights from London to Akureyri have been very successful, and soon after they started, we and our partners began working to secure flights to more destinations. It is gratifying that the decision to offer flights from Manchester was made immediately following a good first winter for easyJet here in North Iceland. This proves that we have a strong destination with numerous opportunities for continued development. We must not take it easy now in marketing North Iceland to international markets even when such milestones are achieved. We have seen how well locals have received the available international flights, taking advantage of the opportunity for convenient travel to London or even further connections. The development of international flights at Akureyri Airport is just beginning, and there are great opportunities ahead in more markets such as Denmark, Germany, or France," says Arnheiður Jóhannsdóttir, Managing Director of the North Iceland Marketing Office.

Ali Gayward, easyJet's UK country manager, says this news is very welcome.

"As the only airline offering a direct connection between the UK and Northern Iceland we are delighted to be launching a second route this winter to Akureyri from Manchester Airport, in addition to our existing route from London Gatwick, which will provide travellers in both the UK and Northern Iceland with more choice and connectivity. We are committed to supporting the development of tourism in Iceland and we look forward to welcoming more customers onboard this winter.," says Ali Gayward.

"More opportunities open up"

In recent years, efforts have been made to establish direct international flights through Akureyri and Egilsstaðir as part of the Nature Direct project in cooperation with Visit Iceland, Isavia, Visit North Iceland and Austurbrú. This collaboration and momentum have contributed to easyJet's decision to now fly to Akureyri from two airports in the UK next winter.

"Direct easyJet flights from Manchester are an important addition to travel options to Iceland. The flight directly supports the government's policy of balancing tourist arrivals across all regions and seasons. This is the backbone of all tourism marketing efforts. The UK is the second-largest market for trips to Iceland and a crucial winter market. Here, broader gateways and more opportunities open up that we will utilize. A positive side effect is that the flight will enhance the quality of life for North Iceland football fans, which is something to celebrate," says Pétur Þorsteinn Óskarsson, Managing Director of Visit Iceland.

"It's excellent news that easyJet intends not only to continue flying between Akureyri and London next winter but also to add Manchester as a destination," says Sigrún Björk Jakobsdóttir, CEO of Isavia Regional Airports. "We have had great success in welcoming easyJet flights to Akureyri Airport last winter, and now, with the terminal expansion nearing completion, it will be delightful to welcome the airline's flights from both London and Manchester next winter."