From Reykjavik: Extreme Northern Lights Tour with Dinner

Discover the Night Sky: An In-Depth Look at the Extreme Northern Lights Tour from Reykjavik

This tour promises an adventure-packed evening, with a focus on locating Iceland’s elusive Northern Lights—or Aurora Borealis—by venturing far beyond Reykjavik’s city lights. Designed for those eager to maximize their chances of seeing this natural phenomenon, it combines scenic driving, cultural touches, and professional photography. We’ve explored what makes this tour special and what you should consider before booking.

What we love most are the opportunity to explore multiple regions, including iconic spots like Akureyri or Kirkjufell, and the chance to capture stunning high-definition photos under the guidance of a professional photographer. The inclusion of traditional Icelandic lamb or bean soup adds a warm touch to a long, chilly night.

A possible drawback? The tour is quite long—up to 12 hours—and requires good warm clothing. If you’re not a night owl or have limited mobility, this might be a challenge. Still, this experience suits adventurous travelers willing to stay up late and embrace the unpredictable Icelandic weather, especially those wanting a comprehensive, photo-friendly journey with a guide who knows the best spots.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Flexible regional focus increases chances of seeing the Aurora by covering multiple areas.
• Professional photography support ensures you leave with high-quality images.
• Traditional Icelandic lamb or bean soup provides comfort and local flavor.
• Viking costumes and weapons for photos add a playful, cultural element.
• Unlimited rebooking option guarantees a second shot if Aurora isn’t visible initially.
• Small group size (max 10 people) means more personalized attention.

An Adventure Oriented Tour with a Personal Touch

This extreme Northern Lights tour from Reykjavik is designed for those who see Aurora viewing as a full-night adventure rather than a quick glance. Unlike shorter or more static excursions, this trip stretches into the early hours—sometimes until dawn—giving you a better chance to find clear skies and active aurora.

Starting at 5 PM and returning between 1 to 5 AM, the timing is perfect for night owls who want to maximize darkness and Aurora activity. The pick-up and drop-off at your Reykjavik accommodation make the logistics simple, and the limited group size (up to 14 participants) ensures the guide’s personal attention and flexibility.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For this price, you’re getting some really valuable extras: professional guide, high-def photos, photography support, traditional meals, and the fun opportunity to dress up in Viking costumes. The unlimited retry if Aurora isn’t spotted is particularly comforting—knowing you can rebook free of charge if the skies stay stubbornly clear makes this a low-risk, high-reward plan.

However, you’ll need to bring your own warm clothes—Iceland nights can be surprisingly cold—and note that drinks, food, and smoking are not permitted in the vehicle, keeping everyone comfortable and safe.

Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

The tour kicks off with a pick-up at your hotel or accommodation around 5 PM. From there, your guide—who’s likely a seasoned local—begins the drive into the western region of Iceland, heading towards areas like Akureyri or Kirkjufell. These locations are prized for their dramatic landscapes and minimal light pollution, perfect for viewing the Aurora.

The drive itself becomes part of the adventure, as your guide will typically mention stories, geology, or folklore about Iceland’s skies and landscapes. Once at a promising location, the fun really begins: professional photographers will help you set up cameras to capture crisp images of the Aurora dancing overhead.

The inclusion of Viking costumes and weapons sources from a local museum adds a playful element—think of dressing up with authentic props for a fun photo session under the lights or starry sky. Many reviews mention how these photos sometimes turn out beautifully, especially when guests are willing to be a little silly.

Dinner is served during the night with hearty Icelandic lamb or vegetarian bean soup—warm, filling, and perfect for a long night outside. This meal, combined with the cozy atmosphere, helps travelers stay comfortable while waiting for the Aurora to appear.

If the lights don’t show on the first night, the free rebooking policy means you can try again on another night, which many travelers found reassuring. Remember, to rebook, you need to notify the operator at least 12 hours in advance, but the flexibility they offer adds considerable value.

More Great Tours Nearby

Pros and Cons of the Itinerary

The main advantage of traveling to multiple regions in one night is the higher likelihood of Aurora viewing, given Iceland’s unpredictable weather. On the downside, the long duration may be tiring, especially if you’re not accustomed to late nights. The drive can be bumpy at times, and the weather may turn cold or windy, making packing warm clothing essential.

The Experience of Photography and Cultural Fun

One of the tour’s highlights is the professional photography. Guided by someone who understands how to shoot the Aurora at its best, you’re likely to leave with high-resolution images suitable for printing or sharing. Many reviews praise the guide’s expertise, noting that they often go beyond just taking photos, sharing insights on how to best capture the lights.

The Viking costumes are a fun, memorable touch—many guests enjoy dressing up and taking unconventional photos. This playful element adds a cultural layer to the experience, making it more than just a sky-watching trip. For those who love a bit of costume fun and historical flair, it’s a delightful bonus.

Price and Value: Is It Worth It?

This tour’s price reflects the inclusions: transportation, guidance, traditional meal, professional photography, Viking props, and the chance for multiple Aurora sightings. Compared to shorter tours, it offers an immersive experience—more driving, more locations, and more chances to see the Lights.

For travelers eager to maximize their Aurora chances and enjoy the Icelandic landscape at night, the value is clear. The rebooking policy reduces risk, making it a smart choice for those who want to be assured of their investment.

However, be mindful that this is a long evening, and the cost may seem steep if you’re only interested in a quick glimpse. Still, given the included extras and flexible rebooking, many find this tour to be a comprehensive and rewarding experience.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Dress warmly—layering is key. You might be outside for several hours.
• Bring your own warm hat, gloves, and sturdy boots.
• Camera gear: if you want high-quality photos, bring a good camera and tripod; the guide can help you set it up.
• Be prepared for late hours—plan accordingly for the next day.
• Notify the operator at least 12 hours ahead if you need to reschedule.
• Don’t forget to ask your guide about the best spots and tips for photographing the Aurora.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys long, flexible adventures, and you’re excited about nighttime photography and cultural fun, this tour fits the bill. It’s ideal for adventurers willing to stay up late and explore beyond Reykjavik’s city limits. The small-group setting makes it perfect for travelers seeking a personalized experience and expert guidance.

This tour also welcomes families with older children (not suitable for very young kids due to late hours), and those who appreciate authentic Icelandic food and stories. If you want a guarantee of a second chance with Aurora sightings, the free rebooking policy makes it a low-stakes choice.

Summary: Is This Tour Right for You?

This From Reykjavik: Extreme Northern Lights Tour with Dinner offers an adventurous, immersive way to experience Iceland’s aurora-filled skies. Its fantastic combination of scenic drives, professional photography, and cultural elements like Viking costumes makes it stand out from more generic aurora tours.

While it demands a long night and warm clothes, the potential to capture stunning photos and visit multiple regions adds significant value. The private guidance, flexible rebooking, and cozy meals mean you’re well looked after on this night-time exploration.

This tour suits adventurous travelers, photographers, and history buffs who don’t mind staying up late and want to make the most of Iceland’s legendary lights in style. It’s a memorable, well-rounded experience that can turn a simple aurora chase into a highlight of your Iceland trip.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs approximately 12 hours, starting around 5 PM and returning between 1 and 5 AM, depending on conditions.

What’s included in the price?
You get pick-up and drop-off, a professional guide, traditional Icelandic lamb or bean soup, high-definition pictures, professional photography support, Viking costumes for photos, and the option for unlimited rebooking if the Aurora isn’t seen.

What should I bring?
Warm clothing is essential—think layers, a hat, gloves, and sturdy shoes. You may also want to bring a camera with a tripod if pursuing high-quality photos.

Can I join if I don’t have good photography skills?
Absolutely. The guide provides professional assistance to help you capture the Aurora, regardless of your camera experience.

Is there a risk I won’t see the Aurora?
Yes, the Aurora is natural and unpredictable. However, the tour’s regional coverage and flexible rebooking policy greatly increase your chances.

Are children allowed?
The tour isn’t suitable for children under 7, and it’s best suited for older kids who can handle late nights and chilly weather.

What happens if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. No refunds are given if the Aurora isn’t visible, but rebooking is free.

To sum it up, this tour offers a comprehensive, fun, and scenic way to chase the Northern Lights in Iceland. It’s best suited for explorers who value cultural touches, professional guidance, and the thrill of a long, night-time quest. With its flexible rebooking and inclusion of memorable extras, it’s a fine choice for any Aurora enthusiast eager to turn a night under the stars into a standout experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: