Iceland: Private Northern Lights Tour with Champagne

When it comes to chasing the Aurora Borealis in Iceland, there’s an abundance of options, but few promise the intimacy and comfort of a private tour like this one. Offered by EV Travel ehf., this experience takes you deep into Iceland’s remote landscapes, away from city lights, for the best chance to witness the sky’s natural light show. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a cozy, luxurious night under the stars, this tour offers plenty of memorable touches.

What we love: first, the luxury transportation options—either a sleek Mercedes electric vehicle or a rugged Super Jeep—cater to comfort and adventure. Second, the champagne and local chocolates make the experience feel exclusive, turning a natural phenomena into a truly celebratory event. That said, it’s worth noting that since the Northern Lights are a natural display, sightings are never guaranteed—weather and solar activity play their part. This tour suits travelers looking for a blend of comfort, exclusivity, and a touch of romance or celebration, rather than a budget or purely adventurous outing.

Key Points

• Private Experience: Up to five people, perfect for couples, families, or small groups.
• Luxury Transport: Choice of electric Mercedes or Super Jeep, depending on conditions.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Champagne, local chocolates, blankets, and professional photos included.
• Expert Guidance: Your guide provides insights, stories, and science about the auroras.
• Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, with full cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Duration & Timing: Around 4 hours, with checkable availability and starting times.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

The Promise of a Private, Comfortable Journey

One of the biggest perks of this tour is the private group setting. With a maximum of five participants, it’s a far cry from the crowded bus tours that dominate Iceland’s Northern Lights scene. This means more personalized attention and flexibility, which can make all the difference when you’re waiting in the cold for that elusive green glow. The luxury Mercedes electric vehicle offers a smooth, quiet ride, with the added bonus of WiFi and cozy wool blankets to keep you comfortable.

The alternative, a Super Jeep, caters to more rugged terrain—something to consider if weather conditions turn challenging. This adaptability is vital because the Northern Lights tour’s success hinges on clear skies and good weather, which can be unpredictable even during Iceland’s long winter nights.

Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins with pickup at your Reykjavík accommodation, making it easy to start your evening hassle-free. After a short 30-minute ride in your electric car, you’ll leave Reykjavik’s glow behind, heading into the remote Icelandic landscape. This part of the journey is designed to elevate anticipation, with your guide sharing stories, myths, and scientific insights about the Aurora Borealis.

The heart of the experience is the 3-hour guided outdoor segment, where you’ll seek out the clearest, darkest spots to watch the skies. Your guide will navigate to locations away from any remaining light pollution, giving you the best possible chance to see the auroras dance overhead. While the specifics of the stops are not detailed, the emphasis is on finding the most suitable viewing conditions—an art in itself.

The Magic of the Aurora Borealis

Once you arrive at your chosen dark spot, your guide will help you settle in for what might be a breathtaking display of vivid greens, purples, and pinks flickering across the sky. The experience of waiting under a blanket with a glass of champagne, surrounded by good company, transforms what could be a fleeting natural event into a special occasion. Many reviews mention the “fascinating insights” shared by guides, which enhance the awe with stories and explanations of the science behind the lights.

More Great Tours Nearby

Photo Opportunities and Memories to Keep

A notable feature is the inclusion of professional photos of you with the Northern Lights. This is a significant value-add, as capturing the moment in the cold night with professional equipment often yields better results than smartphone shots. Several reviewers have appreciated this, remarking on how these photos become treasured keepsakes.

Duration, Pricing, and Value

At around 4 hours, this tour offers a balanced experience—long enough to enjoy multiple viewing chances but not so long as to feel exhausting. The cost of $1,134 per group up to five people averages about $227 per person, which is on the higher end for Iceland tours. But considering the private setting, luxury transport, Champagne, chocolates, professional photos, and personalized guidance, it can be seen as a premium investment in an unforgettable night.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes pickup & drop-off, the private experience, champagne and local chocolates, professional photos, WiFi on board, and a warm wool blanket. It does not include meals or warm clothing, so be sure to dress warmly in layers, wear a hat and gloves, and bring a good camera to capture the moment.

Pros and Cons Based on Reviews

Many travelers have praised the personalized service and the luxury feel of this tour. One reviewer mentioned, “We loved the way the guide shared stories and science, making the experience both fun and educational.” Others appreciated the timing flexibility, as the private nature allows for a more tailored experience.

However, some acknowledge the uncertainty of Northern Lights sightings. Since Aurora activity depends on weather and solar conditions, there’s always a chance you might not see the lights, no matter how luxurious your experience. Still, the guides’ local knowledge and flexibility maximize your chances.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re looking for an intimate, comfortable, and slightly indulgent way to experience the Northern Lights, this tour is hard to beat. It’s ideal for couples celebrating a special occasion, small families, or friends wanting a memorable night with personalized service. It also suits travelers who value professional photos and a knowledgeable guide to enrich the experience.

This tour is less suitable if you prefer a budget option or are okay with large groups, as the price reflects the exclusivity and added touches. Also, if you’re traveling during a period with poor Aurora activity or rough weather, you might want to have flexible expectations.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs about 4 hours, with the actual time spent outside about 3 hours for viewing. You can check specific starting times when booking.

What transport is used?
You’ll travel in either a luxurious Mercedes electric vehicle or a Super Jeep, depending on weather conditions. Both options are designed for comfort and adaptability.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, the tour is private for up to five participants, making it an exclusive experience tailored to your group.

What’s included in the price?
Your package covers pickup and drop-off, champagne, local chocolates, professional photos, WiFi on the vehicle, and warm blankets.

What should I bring?
Dress warmly in layers, including hat and gloves. A camera is recommended to capture this once-in-a-lifetime moment.

Can I cancel if the weather isn’t good?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which is useful given the unpredictability of Northern Lights sightings.

Final Thoughts

This private Northern Lights tour offers a luxurious and personalized way to chase Iceland’s most iconic natural spectacle. The combination of luxury transportation, champagne and chocolates, and professional photography makes it feel like a special occasion rather than just another night out. The small group setting ensures a quiet, intimate experience, perfect for celebrating or creating lasting memories.

While the natural phenomenon can never be guaranteed, the careful planning, expert guidance, and remote locations maximize your chances of witnessing the Aurora Borealis in all its glory. It’s best suited for those willing to invest a bit more for a high-end, tailored experience, and who appreciate comfort and personal attention.

If you’re after an elegant, memorable, and well-supported Northern Lights adventure, this tour ticks all those boxes. Just remember to pack warm, bring your camera, and keep your fingers crossed for clear skies. Iceland’s skies are unpredictable, but with a bit of luck—and this excellent guide—you might just find yourself under a sky full of dancing lights.

You can check availability for your dates here: