Aurora/Northern light hunt and photos (photography help provided)

If you’re heading to Iceland during the winter months, chasing the elusive Northern Lights is nearly unavoidable. This Northern Light hunt offered by ArcticShots promises not only to maximize your chances of witnessing the Aurora Borealis but also to help you capture stunning photos of this natural wonder. With a small-group setting, professional photography assistance, and a focus on authentic experiences, this tour stands out from the crowd.

We’ve looked at various reviews and details to give you a well-rounded picture. Two things you’ll appreciate: personalized guidance that makes photography easier and professional photos included in the package. A possible consideration? The tour’s success depends heavily on weather conditions, which is true for any Northern Lights outing. This experience suits travelers eager for a more intimate, well-guided, and photo-focused adventure—perfect for those who want more than just a quick look at the sky.

Key Points

• Small-group intimacy (max eight people) for a more personalized experience
• Expert photography advice to help you better capture the Aurora
• Professional photos of you with the Northern Lights, with two free images included
• Hassle-free hotel pickup and drop-off in Reykjavik for convenience
• Flexible cancellation policy (free up to 24 hours in advance)
• Tours are well-booked in advance, often 74 days ahead, indicating high demand

Why Choose This Northern Lights Tour?

This tour is a fantastic option if you’re looking for more than just a basic Aurora chase. The expert photography help is a real highlight, especially if you’re eager to get those perfect shots of the lights dancing overhead. The inclusion of professional photos means you won’t have to rely solely on your camera skills or luck. Plus, the small-group setting ensures a cozy, less rushed experience—ideal for travelers who prefer personalized attention and the chance to ask questions.

Another big plus is the hassle-free pickup and drop-off at your Reykjavik hotel, saving you the hassle of arranging transportation. With it running from early evening to late at night (7 PM to 11:30 PM), it covers prime time for Aurora viewing. The tour’s popularity, indicated by the 74-day booking window on average, speaks to its reputation among satisfied travelers.

The Itinerary Breakdown

First Stop: Out of the City for Clear Skies

The journey begins with a drive out of Reykjavik, aiming to escape as much light pollution as possible. While you might not venture deep into the wilderness, the chosen spots are within acceptable distance from the city, which strikes a balance between easy access and better chances of seeing the Aurora. The drive itself is comfortable, and with a group limited to eight, you’ll feel like a small, exclusive expedition rather than just another tourist bus.

Aurora Viewing and Photography Support

Once at the ideal location, the focus shifts to waiting for the Aurora to appear. This part can vary in timing—sometimes within the initial hour, sometimes later. What makes this tour stand out is the expert photography help provided by a professional, who guides you on how best to frame your shots and adjust camera settings for low-light conditions. Whether you’re a beginner or somewhat experienced, you’ll benefit from tailored tips designed to improve your photos.

Warmth and Comfort with Hot Chocolate & Coffee

While waiting, you can enjoy hot chocolate or coffee, providing a cozy break in the chilly Icelandic night. This small touch adds to the experience by making the whole outing more comfortable—after all, waiting outside in winter can be cold.

Professional Photos and Sharing

If the Aurora makes an appearance, you’ll get both personalized photos taken during the tour and two free images included in the package. This means you’ll leave with high-quality shots of yourself and the Northern Lights—no more blurry, distant shots. The professionalism of the photos also means they’re suitable for sharing or printing as keepsakes.

What Makes This Tour Special

Expert Tips and Photography Help
The tour’s biggest advantage is undoubtedly the guidance from a professional photographer. Many travelers have praised this aspect in reviews, highlighting how helpful and patient the guide was in coaching them on capturing the Aurora. As one reviewer put it, “Bragi was an absolute legend,” highlighting the personalized attention.

Professional Photos Included
Getting high-quality images of the Northern Lights with yourself in them can be tricky. With the professional photos included, you’ll have tangible memories without the hassle of trying to photograph the lights yourself in low-light conditions.

Small Group Size
Limiting the group to eight travelers creates a more intimate atmosphere. You won’t be lost in a crowd, and there’s more opportunity to ask questions and receive tailored advice.

Hassle-Free Transportation
Hotel pickup and drop-off remove the stress of arranging your own transport—especially valuable when you’re tired after a day of sightseeing or just want to relax.

Practical Considerations and Value

At $279 per person, this tour may seem on the pricier side compared to larger, more generic Aurora hunts. However, the value comes from the personalized guidance, professional photos, and the small-group experience. You are paying for quality over quantity—a more comfortable, educational, and memorable night under Iceland’s stars.

Since weather is a critical factor, the tour’s policy of offering a full refund or rescheduling if canceled due to poor conditions is reassuring. Many reviewers have appreciated the honesty and flexibility, which can make a significant difference when planning around unpredictable winter weather.

The tour runs every night from November through April, covering the prime Northern Lights season. You should book well in advance, as many travelers do, sometimes 74 days ahead, reflecting its popularity and consistent reviews.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Feedback

Reviews consistently praise the tour for good communication and honest updates if conditions aren’t suitable for viewing. One traveler noted, “They reached out with options for dates or cancellation,” which demonstrates their commitment to a transparent experience.

Many reviews mention how helpful and knowledgeable the guide was, with some describing the experience as “worth every penny,” especially due to the professional photos and expert tips. There’s a sense that this tour offers more than just waiting for lights—it’s an educational, personalized experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Northern Lights adventure is best suited for travelers who value personalized attention and professional photography support. It’s ideal for those who want to maximize their chances of capturing stunning photos of the Aurora, especially if they’re not confident photographers themselves.

Anyone who appreciates small-group experiences will find this tour more comfortable than larger, bus-style excursions. If you’re flexible with your schedule and understand that weather can be unpredictable, you’ll find this tour to be a reliable and rewarding way to try and see the Lights.

It’s also a good choice if you’re staying in Reykjavik and prefer a hassle-free outing with hotel pickup and drop-off included. Although it doesn’t include dinner, the hot beverages and friendly atmosphere make up for the simple refreshment.

Final Thoughts

For travelers seeking a personalized, educational, and photogenic Northern Lights experience, this tour offers a strong combination of expert guidance, professional photos, and small-group comfort. While the success of seeing the Aurora depends on the weather, the tour’s flexibility and reputation for honest communication make it worth considering.

If you’re eager to learn how to photograph the Aurora effectively or want a more intimate experience than the typical large-group hunts, this tour will meet—and likely exceed—your expectations. The professional photos alone are a valuable bonus, creating lasting memories of your Iceland adventure.

To sum it up, this Northern Lights tour is a well-balanced choice for those who want quality, guidance, and authentic experience without sacrificing comfort. It’s an excellent way to turn a potentially elusive natural wonder into a memorable highlight of your trip to Iceland.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available for this tour?
Yes, the tour offers hassle-free pickup and drop-off at your Reykjavik hotel, making it a convenient option.

How long does the tour last?
The tour typically lasts between 3 to 5 hours, depending on conditions and the timing of the Aurora visibility.

What is included in the price?
The price includes expert photography advice, professional photos of your tour with two free images, hot chocolate or coffee, and transportation.

Can I cancel if the weather is poor?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to a maximum of eight travelers for a more personal experience.

Is this tour suitable for children or non-photographers?
Yes, it’s suitable for most travelers, especially those interested in learning how to photograph the Aurora or simply enjoying a small, guided outing.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly with layers, as you’ll be outside in cold winter conditions. The tour provides hot beverages to help keep you comfortable.

Do I need to book in advance?
Given its popularity, booking well in advance—often around 74 days—is recommended to secure your spot.

In summary, this Northern Lights tour from Reykjavik offers more than just a chance to see the Aurora. Its focus on photography, small-group intimacy, and honest communication make it a top choice for travelers eager for a meaningful Icelandic experience.