From Reykjavik: New Year’s Eve Northern Lights Tour

If you’re in Iceland on New Year’s Eve and hoping to witness the elusive Northern Lights, this guided tour from Reykjavik might just be what you’re looking for. While Iceland’s capital city itself isn’t the best place to see the aurora—thanks to light pollution—you’ll head away from the city lights into the dark, open landscapes where the sky truly comes alive.

What makes this tour appealing is its combination of aurora hunting and stargazing, wrapped in the cozy comfort of blankets and hot beverages. It’s a smart choice for travelers seeking an authentic, memorable experience without breaking the bank—though, like all aurora tours, success depends on the weather and aurora activity.

Two things we really appreciate about this experience are the thoughtful amenities—such as blankets and self-serve hot chocolate—and the flexibility built into the route, which can change depending on cloud cover and aurora activity. A possible downside? The tour’s success hinges on clear skies, which in winter Iceland can be unpredictable.

This tour is best suited for those who love nature, are patient for a potentially waiting game, and want a genuine chance to see the Northern Lights in a small-group setting. It’s perfect for couples, solo travelers, or families wanting a cozy, memorable New Year’s celebration under the stars.

Key Points

• Flexible Locations: The end spot varies based on cloud cover and aurora activity, increasing your chances of a sighting.
• Comfort in the Cold: Blankets and hot drinks make waiting more pleasant—essential in Iceland’s winter chill.
• Group Size: Tours are capped at 30-40 people, balancing a social experience with a sense of intimacy.
• Photo Opportunities: Your guide will help set up camera shots and email you photos afterward.
• Weather Dependent: The tour only runs if conditions are favorable, with decisions made by 5 PM.
• Cost-Effective: For $182, you get a guided hunt, warm amenities, and the chance to witness a spectacular natural show—though success isn’t guaranteed.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Experience

Meeting Point & Logistics

The tour begins in downtown Reykjavik, with pickup available at the Tour Bus Stops or select hotels nearby. It’s important to be ready at your pickup point on time, as the process can take up to 45 minutes to an hour. Once on the road, the guide will drive outside the city, where the light pollution is less, increasing your chances of seeing those shimmering green waves.

You’ll be part of a group that can vary seasonally but generally maxes out at 30-40 people. This size strikes a good balance—large enough for a lively atmosphere yet small enough to keep the focus on the natural spectacle.

The Route & Location Changes

Since the exact viewing spot isn’t fixed, the guide will choose locations based on weather reports and aurora forecasts. Sometimes, you might make several stops, waiting patiently for the lights to dance across the sky. The journey is kept as short as possible to maximize your viewing time, but sometimes patience pays off, and you might stay longer at a promising spot.

What You’ll Experience

As you wait in the dark, your guide will be setting up their camera to capture the sky’s wonders and will help ensure everyone gets a chance for a photo. You can ask for pictures, but keep in mind they don’t take photos without aurora activity—they focus on creating a memorable experience, not a commercial photography session.

Warm blankets are provided, making the wait cozy instead of miserable. The self-serve hot chocolate, coffee, and snacks add a nice touch, especially after your long day. Imagine sitting under a vast starry sky, stirring your hot cocoa, while the aurora flares overhead—an authentic, peaceful moment that makes the price feel justified.

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Success and Photos

If the lights appear, you’ll be in for an incredible sight—waves of shimmering green or even red dancing across the night. The guide will try to capture your group’s excitement on camera and afterward email you those photos via Dropbox within a week. Keep in mind, the tour only runs if weather conditions permit, so some nights you might be disappointed.

Value and Pricing

At $182 per person, this tour offers an excellent value for anyone eager to chase the Northern Lights with a knowledgeable guide in a cozy setting. You’re paying for the expertise, the transport out of light pollution, the amenities, and especially the chance to see a natural wonder that’s hard to guarantee but well worth the effort.

Compared to other experiences, this one emphasizes comfort, flexibility, and authentic star-gazing rather than a crowded, impersonal chase. It’s a good deal considering the included amenities and personalized guidance.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who:

• Want a more relaxed, comfortable way to hunt the Northern Lights
• Appreciate small-group intimacy and a guided approach
• Are okay with the uncertainty of weather but want the best chance possible
• Love stars and night skies, not just the aurora itself
• Are traveling in winter and prepared for cold weather
• Are seeking a memorable New Year’s Eve experience that combines nature and celebration

It’s less suitable for those wanting guaranteed photos, or travelers with young children who might find waiting in the cold uncomfortable.

The Sum Up

This New Year’s Eve Northern Lights tour from Reykjavik offers a practical, genuine chance to witness one of Iceland’s most enchanting sights. With its emphasis on cozy amenities like blankets and hot chocolate, along with the expert guidance on local conditions, it balances adventure with comfort. While success depends on weather, the experience of waiting under a starlit sky in Iceland’s winter can be equally rewarding.

For those who value authentic, small-group experiences that focus on the natural beauty of the aurora borealis—rather than commercialized or hectic alternatives—this tour is a strong choice. It’s an excellent way to ring in the new year surrounded by Icelandic wilderness and mystery, without a hefty price tag.

If you’re patient, prepared for the cold, and eager for the chance to see the aurora dance overhead, this tour might just make your Iceland trip unforgettable.

FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
You’ll get transportation, guided aurora hunting, blankets, self-serve hot beverages, and cookies. Photos of the northern lights will be emailed afterward if the lights appear.

Does the tour run every night?
No, the tour depends on weather and aurora activity. The decision to proceed is made by 5 PM each day, and if canceled, you’ll be notified.

Where does the tour meet?
Meeting points are in downtown Reykjavik at designated bus stops or select hotels nearby. Be ready on time, as pickup can take up to an hour.

Can I get photos of the northern lights?
Yes, your guide will help set up camera shots, and they will email photos via Dropbox within a week if the aurora is visible.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, infants are welcome at no extra cost, but children 6 years or younger must have a car seat. Be prepared for cold weather.

How long does the tour last?
The duration is approximately 5 hours, but it may be shorter or longer depending on aurora activity and weather conditions.

What should I bring?
Dress warmly in layers, including hats, gloves, and sturdy footwear. Warm clothing is essential for comfort during the wait.

This Northern Lights tour from Reykjavik offers a good blend of adventure, comfort, and authentic Icelandic experience. Whether you’re chasing the aurora for the first time or celebrating New Year’s with a bit of starry magic, it’s a memorable way to ring in the new year beneath Iceland’s spectacular night sky.

You can check availability for your dates here: