Award Winning Private Northern Lights Tour with All Inclusive

Getting a glimpse of the Northern Lights is a bucket list goal for many travelers heading to Iceland. This private tour promises a tailored experience with door-to-door service, cozy winter jumpsuits, hot drinks, snacks, and professional photo support. It’s designed for those who want a stress-free, personalized adventure to chase the Aurora Borealis.

What we love about this experience is the all-inclusive nature — everything from transportation to warm gear and refreshments is taken care of — and the flexible, tailored approach of the guide, who plans each route based on real-time weather and geomagnetic forecasts. Conversely, a challenge could be the cost, which at $1,380 for a group may seem steep compared to group tours, and the possibility of not seeing the lights, which is always a gamble with this natural phenomenon.

This tour suits travelers who value privacy, personalized attention, and a comfortable, hassle-free experience. If you’re willing to invest in a high-quality, tailored adventure and understand the unpredictability of the Northern Lights, this option is worth considering.

Key Points

• Private, personalized service tailored to your group’s needs
• All-inclusive experience includes transportation, gear, hot drinks, and photos
• Flexible route planning based on weather and aurora forecasts
• Cozy winter gear provided to keep you warm in Iceland’s chilly nights
• Photo assistance helps you capture the lights without stress
• Risk of no Aurora display is mitigated by a free second tour if not seen

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Allure of a Private Tour

This private Northern Lights tour is designed for small groups — up to six people — which instantly elevates the experience beyond the typical bus crowd. You get door-to-door pickup, which means no hauling luggage or waiting around for a shuttle. The guide’s role is to craft a route that’s optimized for visibility, choosing locations away from city lights, and adjusting based on the weather and aurora forecasts.

A key feature that sets this apart is the all-inclusive setup. Your fee covers everything, from warm jumpsuits to hot drinks and snacks, including liquor if you fancy a warming shot. As one reviewer describes it, “Incredible professional photos,” which means you’ll likely leave with memories captured without the fuss of lugging your camera or worrying about settings. Having tripods and camera assistance included makes a real difference for those wanting quality photos without the stress.

The Itinerary and Locations

The tour’s main stops — the Southern Region, Reykjanes Peninsula, and Þingvellir National Park — are carefully selected for their potential to offer clear, dark skies away from Reykjavik’s light pollution. Each location is chosen based on real-time conditions, increasing your chances of witnessing the elusive Northern Lights.

Reykjavik’s proximity to these scenic spots is crucial; the tour leaves around 8 p.m. and heads into the Icelandic darkness, where the sky is at its most dramatic. The stops are not just random; they’re strategic, aiming for the best possible viewing situation on any given night. The guide’s expertise shines here as they interpret weather patterns and geomagnetic data to find the best spots.

What You Can Expect During the Tour

Once outside the city, the landscape transforms into a vast expanse of snowy fields, rugged hills, or volcanic plains, all perfect backdrops for the Northern Lights. You’ll be bundled into your winter jumpsuits, which are designed to keep you warm despite the cold Icelandic night. The inclusion of hot chocolate, sweets, and liquor adds a comforting touch — especially as you wait for the sky to dance with green, purple, and sometimes pink lights.

Reviewers have praised the professionalism of the guide and the quality of the photos. One notes, “Well worth paying a little extra for the individual attention,” emphasizing how personalized guidance enhances the experience. Having a dedicated guide means you’re not just a passenger but part of a tailored adventure, with the guide’s insights making the experience more meaningful.

The Value of the Experience

At $1,380 for a group of up to six, the cost isn’t cheap. However, considering it includes private transportation, all gear, refreshments, and professional photos, it offers significant value for those seeking comfort and convenience. For travelers who want to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience, this setup provides a level of service that many group tours cannot match.

A noteworthy aspect is the second tour free if the Aurora doesn’t appear — a reassurance that the guide’s expertise aims to maximize your chances, though the natural unpredictability remains. This flexibility should appeal to travelers who prefer a no-stress approach and value the chance of a second shot.

The Reviews: Authentic Perspectives

One glowing review describes the experience as “Outstanding,” highlighting great communication, and the professionalism of the photos. The reviewer appreciated the flexibility and felt reassured knowing they weren’t solely relying on luck but on expert guidance.

Conversely, a less favorable review recounts a communication mishap and a no-show pickup, emphasizing the importance of clear instructions and confirming arrangements beforehand. It’s a reminder that, even with these premium services, travelers should maintain communication and clarify details.

Another reviewer praises the “fantastic experience” and Heimirs’ enthusiasm and skill, noting that paying extra for individual attention was “well worth it,” especially when chasing fleeting Aurora displays.

Practical Considerations

Timing: The tour begins at 8 p.m., a prime time to catch the Aurora typically visible in Iceland’s winter months. Planning around this start time ensures maximum darkness and visibility.

Duration: Lasting between 3-5 hours, the tour offers enough time to explore several locations without feeling rushed. The flexibility allows the guide to extend or shorten the outing depending on conditions.

Group Size: Limited to six people, the small group size enhances the personalized experience, making it easier to interact with the guide and enjoy the surroundings.

Weather and Aurora Dependence: The tour hinges on clear skies and geomagnetic activity. The guide will adapt the route accordingly, but remember, seeing the Aurora isn’t guaranteed. The second tour policy helps mitigate this risk.

Cost and Value: At $1,380 for up to six participants, it averages about $230 per person, which may seem high at first glance. But when you consider the private, all-inclusive nature, the expert guidance, and the potential to avoid cold, disappointed waits, many find it worthwhile — especially those celebrating a special occasion or wanting a “luxury” experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private Northern Lights experience is best suited for travelers who prioritize comfort, privacy, and personalized attention. If you’re traveling as a small group, celebrating a special event, or simply want a stress-free chase with the best chance to see the Aurora, this tour is a good match.

However, if your priority is budget or if you’re comfortable with larger group outings, there are more economical options available. Also, those who are highly sensitive to weather conditions should keep in mind that the Aurora’s appearance is never guaranteed, regardless of the effort or cost.

The Sum Up

This private, all-inclusive Northern Lights tour offers a combination of comfort, flexibility, and expert guidance that appeals to travelers who want a memorable, hassle-free experience. The focus on personalized service, from tailored routes to professional photography, makes it stand out in a crowded market of group tours.

While the price may be a hurdle for some, the value is in the details: cozy gear, private transportation, hot drinks, and the chance to capture stunning photos without stress. The tour’s success hinges on weather and aurora activity, but the guide’s strategic planning and second-tour guarantee provide peace of mind.

In essence, this experience is ideal for those seeking a more refined, intimate approach to Iceland’s most famous natural spectacle — and who are willing to invest in a memorable night under the Northern Lights.

FAQ

How early should I book this tour?
Most travelers book about 58 days in advance, which helps secure availability and ensures you get a private, personalized experience.

Is pickup included?
Yes, transfers from hotels, cruise terminals, and many guesthouses in Reykjavik are included, making it convenient and stress-free.

What should I wear?
The tour provides cozy winter jumpsuits designed to protect against Iceland’s cold temperatures, so just wear layers underneath and bring warm accessories like gloves and hats.

Can I bring my own camera?
Absolutely. The tour includes tripods and camera assistance, making it easier to get great photos without lugging your own equipment.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The guide will adapt the route based on cloud cover and forecasts. If the conditions are unsuitable for Aurora viewing, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is there a risk of not seeing the Northern Lights?
Yes, since the Aurora is a natural phenomenon, it’s never guaranteed. However, the guide’s expertise and flexible planning aim to maximize your chances, and a second tour is offered free if the lights don’t appear.

What’s the duration of the tour?
Expect roughly 3 to 5 hours of Northern Lights chasing, depending on conditions and the group’s pace.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best suited for those comfortable with cold weather and late-night outings. Check with the provider if you have specific concerns.

This private Northern Lights tour offers a thoughtfully curated, comfortable way to experience one of Iceland’s most magical sights. With attention to detail, expert guidance, and all the comforts built in, it’s a solid choice for travelers who want a premium, personalized adventure under the Icelandic sky.