Northern Lights, Off-Road Truck, Photos, Hot Cocoa, Pastries

Traveling in Iceland during the winter offers some of the most breathtaking sights imaginable, but the real pièce de résistance is undoubtedly the Northern Lights. While many tours promise a chance to see this celestial dance, this particular experience by Glaciers and Waterfalls ehf sets itself apart with its off-road approach, cozy amenities, and focus on capturing memories.

For those who love discovering natural phenomena with a mix of adventure and comfort, this 4-hour tour is worth considering. We’re especially fond of how it combines the thrill of off-road travel with the warmth of hot cocoa and pastries, not to mention the opportunity to get stunning photos. However, it’s worth noting that, like all Aurora hunts, the experience depends heavily on weather conditions, so sightings are not guaranteed.

This tour would suit travelers seeking an authentic, less crowded Northern Lights experience, particularly those who enjoy off-the-beaten-path pursuits and photography. If you’re a winter adventurer who appreciates cozy comforts after braving Iceland’s cold, this trip offers a compelling blend.

Key Points

• Unique Off-Road Experience: Travel in a sturdy off-road truck that accesses remote spots big bus tours can’t reach.
• Expert-guided Tours: Knowledgeable guides use weather patterns to boost chances of Aurora sightings.
• Comfort and Warmth: Enjoy hot cocoa, local pastries, and blankets under the dark Icelandic sky.
• Photographic Memories: High-quality photos of you with the Aurora are included.
• Weather Dependence: Aurora sightings are weather-dependent and cannot be guaranteed.
• Value for Price: At $173, it includes transportation, photos, snacks, and beverages—good value for the immersive experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Departure from Reykjavik and Travel into the Icelandic Countryside

The tour begins with a pickup from your Reykjavik accommodation in a Mercedes Sprinter Mini Bus marked “Glaciers and Waterfalls”. The approximately four-hour journey promises a chance to leave behind the city’s glow and head into the darker, more open parts of the Icelandic landscape.

This part of Iceland is where the magic happens in winter — expansive skies and minimal light pollution increase the likelihood of witnessing the Aurora Borealis. Travel in an off-road truck allows for greater flexibility, as your guide can navigate into areas that are inaccessible to larger buses, plus it’s a more rugged, adventurous way to get out into nature.

Reaching the Best Vantage Points

Your guide will leverage their knowledge of local weather patterns and aurora forecasts to find the best spots — often in more secluded areas — where the chances of seeing the lights are maximized. The thrill of the hunt is part of the experience; you may stop several times along the route, each time hoping for a glimpse of the dancing lights.

Cozy Breaks in the Darkness

While waiting for the Aurora to appear (or not), you’ll be kept warm and comfortable. Think cozy blankets, hot cocoa, and delicious Icelandic pastries. The inclusion of local treats not only adds a taste of Iceland but also makes the chilly wait more enjoyable. Many reviews mention how appreciated this part of the tour is — after all, waiting outdoors in winter can be cold, but with hot drinks and blankets, it’s much more manageable.

More Great Tours Nearby

Photographing the Aurora

One of the standout features of this tour is the professional-quality photos of you with the Northern Lights. Your guide will use their equipment to capture high-quality images, so you can focus on soaking in the experience without worrying about snapping perfect shots yourself. Several travelers have expressed how grateful they are for these pictures, which enable them to relive the moment long after the tour ends.

Return to Reykjavik

After the experience, the group will be transported back to Reykjavik, typically within the same four-hour window. You’ll leave with not only photographs but also a collection of memories and stories about the night’s adventure.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

At $173 per person, this tour includes much more than just transportation. The guided expertise, the ability to access remote viewing spots, the photos, and the comforts of hot cocoa and pastries all add up. It’s an experience that balances adventure with warmth, making it appealing even for those who might shy away from cold winter nights.

Compared to larger bus tours, the off-road approach provides a more intimate and flexible experience, which many guests find worthwhile. Plus, the inclusion of WiFi on board is a practical touch, allowing you to share photos or check the Aurora forecast while waiting.

Additional Considerations

It’s important to remember that Aurora sightings depend on weather conditions — clouds, snow, or lack of solar activity can all prevent a sighting. The tour operator is transparent about this, and many travelers appreciate their honesty, understanding that nature can be unpredictable. The tour is not suitable for children under 5, mainly because of the outdoor waiting in cold conditions, which requires patience and warmth.

The tour’s duration of 4 hours makes it a manageable evening activity, fitting comfortably into a day of sightseeing or relaxing in Reykjavik. You’ll want to dress warmly, with layers, waterproof gear, and sturdy footwear, to stay comfortable during the outdoor waits.

The Authentic Experience: What Travelers Say

Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and how they make the experience engaging and informative, explaining the science behind the Aurora and Iceland’s winter landscape. One reviewer mentioned, “We loved the way our guide explained the weather patterns — it made the waiting even more interesting.”

The ability to capture high-quality photos with the Aurora is often praised, with travelers noting that these images are “professional-quality” and a real keepsake. Guests also appreciate the cozy atmosphere created by blankets, pastries, and hot chocolate, making the chilly night more welcoming.

A few reviews mention that the visibility of the lights can be elusive, but this is simply part of viewing nature’s show — patience, preparation, and a little luck play roles. The tour aims to maximize your chances but cannot guarantee a sighting, which is true of all Aurora tours.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Northern Lights tour offers a balanced mix of adventure and comfort, making it a good choice for travelers who want to experience Iceland’s winter skies without sacrificing warmth. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy photo opportunities, small group experiences, and off-road exploration.

If you’re visiting Iceland and want to step outside the city’s light pollution in search of the Aurora, this tour provides a practical, engaging way to do so. It’s also ideal for travelers with a flexible schedule looking for a concise, high-quality experience.

However, keep in mind the weather dependency and prepare accordingly. If catching the Northern Lights is a top priority, consider checking the Aurora forecast and being open to the possibility of a cloudy night. Otherwise, the journey itself — with its scenic drives, cozy pauses, and expert guidance — is worth the price.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, your transfer to and from Reykjavik is included, in a Mercedes Sprinter Mini Bus specifically marked “Glaciers and Waterfalls.”

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 4 hours, with flexible start times depending on availability.

Can I get photos of the Northern Lights?
Absolutely. The guide will take high-quality photos of you with the Aurora, which are included in the price.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 5 due to the outdoor waiting involved in viewing the Aurora and cold weather conditions.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers transport, an English-speaking guide, complimentary photos, local pastries, hot cocoa, blankets, and WiFi onboard.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

What if I don’t see the Aurora?
Sighting depends on weather and solar activity — it’s not guaranteed. The guide will do their best to find clear spots, but nature can be unpredictable.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layers, including waterproof gear, as you will be outside waiting in winter conditions.

In summary, the Northern Lights, Off-Road Truck Tour offers a thoughtful, well-rounded chance to witness Iceland’s natural wonder in style. It provides a good blend of adventure, comfort, and expert guidance, making it a memorable part of any winter visit to Reykjavik.

You can check availability for your dates here: