Akureyri: Forest Lagoon & Northern Lights Tour

Exploring Iceland’s North in Winter: Forest Lagoon & Northern Lights Tour Review

If you’re heading to Iceland’s northeastern region during winter, this Forest Lagoon and Northern Lights tour promises a blend of relaxation and awe-inspiring natural beauty. We’ve looked into what makes this experience worth considering for travelers seeking both comfort and a touch of magic, and it’s clear that this tour offers genuine value.

What we love most about this experience is the unique setting of the Forest Lagoon — surrounded by Icelandic forest and overlooking Eyjafjörður, one of the country’s longest fjords. Its tranquil atmosphere and scenic views make soaking in warm geothermal waters feel extra special. The second highlight is the chance to view the Northern Lights in a less light-polluted, northern environment, especially during a winter forecast that looks promising for aurora activity.

A potential consideration? The timing and weather can influence the experience. Cloud cover or poor weather might limit your chances of seeing the Northern Lights, so patience and flexibility are key. Also, since the tour doesn’t include meals or towels, travelers should plan accordingly.

This tour is ideal for those who want a combination of relaxation, stunning scenery, and a touch of adventure. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy both soaking in geothermal baths and witnessing one of nature’s most spectacular phenomena.

Key Points

• Relaxing geothermal experience in a scenic setting overlooking Eyjafjörður.
• Opportunity to view the Northern Lights in a less light-polluted environment.
• Guided experience with knowledgeable English-speaking guides.
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Includes transportation and entrance to the Forest Lagoon, offering convenience.
• Weather-dependent — aurora sightings are not guaranteed.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Forest Lagoon & Northern Lights Tour

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour begins with a convenient pickup — either from your hotel or a designated meeting point, and it lasts about 4.5 hours. This time frame is well-structured to balance the relaxing geothermal soak with the evening aurora hunt. The short drive to the Forest Lagoon introduces travelers to the scenic beauty of Iceland’s north, where the landscape often looks like frozen art.

Once at the Lagoon, you’ll be able to linger in the warm waters — heated naturally by geothermal energy. The lagoon’s special location, surrounded by birch and pine trees and with views of Eyjafjörður, adds an authentic Icelandic touch. We loved the way the setting enhances the experience — the tranquility, the crisp winter air, and the peaceful waters combine for a memorable soak.

The guide is a key part of the experience. As one reviewer noted, “Siggi was a great guide,” knowledgeable and friendly, helping you get the most out of your outing. Expect them to share insights about the Northern Lights, Icelandic nature, and the local environment.

The Northern Lights Experience

After the Lagoon session, the tour shifts gears to the hunt for the Aurora Borealis. Your guides will take you outside Akureyri, away from city lights, to increase your chances of witnessing the sky’s natural spectacle. With the current forecast looking promising, this winter could be an exciting time for aurora viewing.

One of the best aspects of this part of the tour is the expert guidance. Guides are experienced and eager to share their knowledge, helping to interpret the lights if they appear. As one happy traveler shared, “The Northern Lights display was sensational,” indicating that your chances of a memorable sighting are high when conditions cooperate.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

The $204 per person price covers transportation, your guide, and entrance to the Forest Lagoon. Considering the cost of similar experiences elsewhere and the included features, this represents a fair value, especially given the scenic beauty and the chance to combine two distinct experiences in one evening.

What’s notable is that the tour doesn’t include meals or towels, so packing a swimsuit, towel, and warm clothing is recommended. Planning ahead ensures you’re comfortable and ready to relax.

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Transportation and Group Size

Transport is included, with pickup available upon request. This adds a layer of ease — no need to worry about navigating or parking. The group size isn’t specified, but guided tours like this tend to be small enough for personalized attention, which enhances the overall quality.

Suitability and Accessibility

This tour is wheelchair accessible, making it a good choice for travelers with mobility considerations. However, it’s not recommended for those with heart problems, a standard caution given the outdoor nature and potential cold exposure.

Weather and Rescheduling

Like all outdoor Icelandic adventures, this tour is weather-dependent. Clouds or storms could lead to cancellations or rescheduling, so flexibility and patience are essential. Always check the local weather forecast and communicate with your guide if needed.

Authentic Experiences and Honest Reviews

Feedback from previous travelers paints a positive picture. Brett, for example, praised Siggi’s guiding skills and described the Northern Lights as “sensational.” Others appreciated the scenic views and peaceful atmosphere of the Lagoon, emphasizing the relaxing nature of the experience.

The balance of relaxation and adventure appeals to a broad range of travelers—whether you’re looking to unwind after a day of sightseeing or hoping to catch a glimpse of the Aurora.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers seeking a relaxing yet memorable evening in Iceland’s north. It suits those who appreciate natural beauty, are comfortable in outdoor environments, and are eager to witness the Northern Lights if conditions permit. It’s also perfect for those who prefer guided, organized outings with transportation included, making logistics simpler.

While it’s not suitable for individuals with heart problems or those who dislike outdoor cold weather, most others will find this a worthwhile addition to their Iceland itinerary.

The Sum Up

The Akureyri Forest Lagoon & Northern Lights Tour offers a well-rounded experience, combining Icelandic thermal relaxation with the thrill of Aurora Borealis viewing. The scenic lagoon, with its views of Eyjafjörður, provides a peaceful setting that elevates the usual geothermal bath experience. Meanwhile, the guided aurora hunt adds an element of adventure and wonder.

For those traveling in winter, this tour provides a chance to enjoy the best the North has to offer—whether it’s soaking in warm waters or marveling at the night sky’s natural light show. The knowledgeable guides, flexible booking options, and scenic setting make it a solid choice for travelers who value authentic, memorable moments in Iceland.

If you’re after an evening that blends comfort, natural beauty, and the possibility of witnessing one of nature’s most stunning displays, this tour is definitely worth considering.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation is included, and pickup can be arranged upon request, making it convenient to join the tour without worry.

What should I bring?
Bring warm clothing, swimwear, and a towel. Dressing in layers is recommended to stay comfortable outdoors and in the Lagoon.

Can I see the Northern Lights on this tour?
While the tour increases your chances by taking you away from city lights, sightings are not guaranteed because the Aurora is a natural phenomenon.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 4.5 hours, including the drive, Lagoon time, and the Aurora hunt.

Is this tour accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, though it’s not suitable for individuals with heart problems.

Is there a chance of cancellation?
Yes, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled due to weather conditions, so flexibility is advised.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended, and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This guided adventure in Iceland’s north offers a perfect blend of relaxation and natural spectacle. Whether you’re soaking in the warm waters or gazing up at the dancing lights, it’s an experience that will linger in your memory long after you leave.

You can check availability for your dates here: