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Northern Lights Tours: Everything you need to know
The northern lights, or aurora borealis, are a natural phenomenon that occurs at high latitudes when solar particles collide with the Earth's atmosphere, creating colorful, waving ribbons of light in the night sky. The aurora borealis is only visible during the darker winter nights, which is why northern lights hunting is one of the most popular winter activities in Iceland!
2025 is expected to be a great year for viewing the northern lights in Iceland, as the sun is currently experiencing a solar maximum. The period of increased solar activity may lead to more frequent and vibrant northern light displays!
The aurora borealis can be seen all across Iceland as long as the sky is clear and there's minimal light pollution. While many travelers choose guided tours for convenience and expert insights, you don’t have to book a tour to experience this magical phenomenon.
If you’re traveling independently, you can use tools like the Icelandic northern lights forecast or Norwegian aurora forecast to see the estimated solar activity. Also, check the cloud cover forecast before heading out. Look for areas away from city lights, such as Thingvellir National Park or the Reykjanes peninsula, and be prepared to wait patiently.
On nights with very strong activity, the auroras borealis can even be visible from Reykjavik. Consider finding a dark spot in the city, like the Grotta nature reserve or in public parks, to improve your chances.
All tours to see the northern lights in Iceland rely on aurora forecasts to determine the best viewing spots. These tools allow guides to adapt the itinerary, taking travelers to areas with the highest likelihood of activity. Whether on your own or with a tour, dressing warmly and staying optimistic is key to making the most of this unforgettable experience.
Northern Lights Tour Types
Choosing the right northern lights tour can elevate your Iceland adventure. From the affordability of group bus tours to the exclusivity of private outings, there’s a tour option for every traveler. Below, learn about each northern lights tour type to help you find the experience best suited to you.
Top Northern Lights Bus Tours
Bus tours are the most popular way to experience the northern lights in Iceland because they are affordable and very hassle-free. These group tours pick you up from central locations or even your accommodation, making them easy to join. They travel to rural areas with minimal light pollution, usually lasting 3–4 hours, and include a guide that provides information about the auroras and Icelandic folklore.
- The Northern Lights Tour from Reykjavik - This highly-rated tour picks you up in Reykjavik and brings you to the best viewing spots outside the city.
- Northern Lights Bus Tour from Reykjavik - See the northern lights with pickup from the capital, and you can add a visit to the Aurora Museum in Reykjavik.
- Northern Lights Tour with an Audio Guide - Witness the aurora from Reykjavik with a convenient audio guide, available in 10 languages!
Top Small Group and Private Tours
For a more personal touch, small group tours cater to fewer participants, offering a quieter and more relaxed experience. Private tours are perfect for those looking to craft a customized itinerary, as they allow you to choose your departure time and specific viewing locations. Both options are great for avoiding crowds and enjoying a more tailored adventure under the northern lights.
- Northern Lights Tour With Free Photos & Refreshments - Enjoy an easy pick-up from Reykjavik and travel with a small group on this top-rated tour. It includes photos of you with the aurora and hot drinks and snacks for the journey!
- Magical 4-Hour Northern Lights Minibus Tour - Head out to great viewing spots with pickup from Reykjavik in a small-group setting. Capture the aurora with help from your guide and enjoy hot chocolate and snacks to warm up!
- 5-Hour Northern Lights & Stargazing Tour with Pictures - See the northern lights from Reykjavik and enjoy stargazing with a telescope. It includes photos and hot chocolate!
- Private & Personalized 3-Hour Northern Lights Hunt - Witness the aurora in complete privacy with this personalized tour from Reykjavik.
Top Super Jeep Tours
Super Jeep tours add an element of adventure to your northern lights hunt in Iceland. These off-road vehicles are designed to handle Iceland’s rugged terrain, taking you to secluded areas regular buses can't access, where the skies are exceptionally dark. Guides often share stories about Iceland’s geology and nature along the way. These tours are ideal for thrill-seekers or those looking for a more exclusive and remote experience.
- The Northern Lights Super Jeep Tour with Free Photos - Take a thrilling ride in a Super Jeep to see the aurora in more remote locations. This top-rated tour has Reykjavik pick-up and includes free photos.
- 4-Hour Northern Lights Super Jeep Tour - Head out into nature with a guide who can help you capture photos of the aurora. It includes snacks and hot drinks and departs from Reykjavik.
- Comfortable 4-Hour Northern Lights Hunt in a Super Jeep - Travel comfortably to see the northern lights in a Super Jeep from Reykjavik. The tour includes photos, hot drinks, and snacks.
Top Northern Lights Boat Tours
Viewing the auroras from the sea offers a tranquil and unique perspective. Boat tours typically depart from Reykjavik harbor and take you out onto Faxafloi bay. The absence of city lights enhances the visibility of the auroras, and boats are generally equipped with indoor seating and outdoor viewing decks.
- Magical 2-Hour Northern Lights Boat Cruise - Enjoy a top-rated boat ride from Reykjavik harbor, admiring the city coastline and seeing the aurora borealis from the ocean.
- Amazing 2-Hour Northern Lights Cruise - This popular tour departs from Reykjavik harbor and includes a warm drink.
- Comfortable 2 Hour Northern Lights Boat Tour - Sail from Reykjavik on a triple observation deck boat with panoramic views to see the aurora.
Top Multi-Day Tours
Multi-day tours combine northern lights hunting with an in-depth exploration of Iceland’s landscapes. These tours can range from 2 to 10 days and can include activities like exploring ice caves, glacier hikes, visits to hot springs, and seeing famous sites like Seljalandsfoss waterfall and Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon. Accommodation and transportation are included, making these tours a hassle-free way to experience Iceland with a focus on the northern lights.
- 8-Day Guided Winter Northern Lights Tour of the Complete Ring Road - This top-rated tour brings you to all the major sights around the Ring Road of Iceland, driven by an expert guide. Enjoy top activities during the day and hunt for the northern lights in the evening!
- 3-Day Northern Lights & Ice Cave Tour to the Golden Circle, South Coast - Let an experienced guide take care of driving in winter and explore the Golden Circle route and the South Coast, going all the way to the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon. You'll also visit a crystal blue ice cave!
- 2-Day Ice Cave & South Coast Trip to Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon - A professional guide will bring you to the main South Coast sights. This includes the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, where you'll see an incredible winter ice cave in the Vatnajokull glacier.
What to Know About Northern Lights Tours in Iceland
Seeing the northern lights is an incredible experience, but it’s important to remember they are a natural phenomenon that depends on solar activity and weather conditions. This means that sightings can never be guaranteed.
Many northern lights tour operators in Iceland offer a "free retry" policy, allowing you to join another tour at a later date if no auroras are visible during your first try. This is why we highly recommend taking northern lights tours early during a trip to Iceland, as this gives you the option to try again on a different night if needed.
Patience and flexibility are key when hunting for the aurora. You'll usually have to wait for the lights to appear, so it’s important to dress warmly with layers, hats, gloves, wool socks, and sturdy shoes. Some tours also provide hot drinks like tea or hot chocolate to keep you comfortable while you wait!
With preparation and a bit of luck, hunting for the northern lights in Iceland can be an unforgettable adventure. This natural phenomenon has amazed humans for centuries, and with the right conditions, you can see the aurora dancing in the sky. Hunt for them on your own or join a tour to reach the best viewing spots with expert guides.
Frequently asked questions
What's the best northern lights tour in Iceland?
1. Super Jeep northern lights hunt with free photos: This top-rated tour includes hotel pickup, you'll get to ride in a Super Jeep, and you'll get beautiful photos of yourself with the aurora borealis!
2. Northern lights tour from Reykjavik: It also includes photos and is highly rated by travelers staying in the capital. You'll head out to great viewing spots with a guide who will capture beautiful photos of you with the aurora borealis, and it includes refreshments.
What's the cheapest northern lights tour in Iceland?
1. 2-hour northern lights tour by boat from Reykjavik: See the aurora on a boat ride from Reykjavik harbor on this highly-rated tour. Getting to the boat is very easy if you're staying in the downtown area.
2. Affordable three-hour northern lights bus tour: It includes pickup from your accommodation in Reykjavik, and you'll travel in a convenient bus with a tour guide telling you everything you need to know about the aurora.
What types of northern lights tours are available in Iceland?
1. Bus tours: An affordable and popular group of tours with an excellent option being this northern lights tour from Reykjavik. You can also travel in a minibus with fewer people, like with this magical 4-hour northern lights tour.
2. Small group: Personalized experiences with fewer people, providing a more intimate atmosphere. This northern lights tour with free photos and refreshments is one of the best aurora tours available!
3. Private tours: A fantastic option if you'd like to travel alone with friends or family. This private and personalized northern lights hunt is a good choice.
4. Super Jeep tours: Add some thrills to your experience with an off-road adventure to remote viewing areas. This northern lights Super Jeep tour is highly rated and includes free photos!
5. Boat tours: You can see the northern lights from the sea for a unique perspective. A popular option is this 2-hour northern lights boat cruise from Reykjavik, which brings you out on Faxafloi bay.
6. Multi-day tours: Combine northern lights hunting with other activities for different lengths of time. This 8-day guided winter northern lights tour offers the ultimate aurora adventure, bringing you around the whole country with a focus on seeing the aurora!
What are the best guided multi-day tours in Iceland?
1. 3-day northern lights tour: It's highly rated and includes guided visits to the Golden Circle, South Coast, the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, and an ice-caving experience.
2. 6-day northern lights winter tour of the complete Ring Road: See the main sights all around Iceland with a guide. This small group tour is very highly rated and includes activities like ice-caving and whale-watching.
3. 2-day ice cave and South Coast trip: This excellent tour allows you to make the most of your time in Iceland, bringing you to the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon in a small group, where you'll visit a crystal blue ice cave.
What's the best northern lights vacation package?
1. 5-day northern lights winter vacation package: It has an excellent rating and includes the South Coast, ice caving, and a visit to the Blue Lagoon.
2. 8-day guided winter northern lights tour of the complete Ring Road: This top-rated tour brings you around all of Iceland with a trusty guide. It includes transport, accommodations, and exciting activities!
3. 7-day northern lights self-drive tour: If you'd like to drive yourself, this popular tour includes a rental car and accommodation, and you'll see the Golden Circle, the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, and the Snaefellsnes peninsula with exciting activities.
All northern lights tour packages let you enjoy the best of Iceland while using every opportunity to see the aurora borealis!
Are there northern lights tours from Reykjavik?
You can also enjoy a small group experience on this northern lights tour with free photos and refreshments, which also includes a pickup service.
How much is a tour to see the northern lights in Iceland?
Are northern lights tours in Iceland worth it?
These Iceland tours have helpful guides that will share interesting stories and bring you to the best aurora-spotting locations based on years of experience. Many of the northern lights tours in Reykjavik even offer hotel pickup for departure, bringing you straight out into nature!
How long does a northern lights tour in Iceland last?
However, you could book a whole northern lights vacation package, which lasts multiple days. These Iceland holidays focus on northern light hunting while you explore the countryside!
What happens if a northern lights tour in Iceland is canceled?
Are northern lights tours guaranteed to see the aurora borealis?
However, many tour operators offer a “free rebooking” policy or allow you to join another tour if you don’t see them the first time.
We, therefore, recommend going on a northern lights trip early during your visit to Iceland, so you have time to go again if needed!
When is the best time to see the northern lights in Iceland?
In Iceland, daylight hours are shorter throughout the winter months, providing more opportunities to see the magnificent aurora borealis.
You'll need clear skies and low light pollution, but the more hours of darkness, the better your chances are of catching them during your trip!
Where is the best place to see the northern lights in Iceland?
The northern lights are most visible anywhere where there is minimal light pollution, and there are many beautiful locations around Iceland where you can see them. Catching the northern lights at the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon is a truly magical experience!
Sometimes, when they are strong, the northern lights can be seen from downtown Reykjavik.
What region in Iceland is best for spotting the northern lights?
However, North Iceland has shorter sunlight hours than other parts of Iceland in the winter, meaning an even higher chance you’ll see northern lights there.
What should I wear on a northern lights tour in Iceland?
It's also wise to pack a battery pack for your phone, as phone batteries get depleted faster in cold conditions. If you plan to photograph the northern lights, bring gloves with touchscreen functionality so you don't have to take them off in the cold night.
Can I take a northern lights photography tour in Iceland?
This 4-hour small-group northern lights tour is also an excellent option, as you'll travel with an aurora expert and a photographer.
What kind of camera do I need to capture the northern lights?
It's important to bring extra batteries and memory cards, as cold temperatures can drain batteries quickly.
What are the best DSLR camera settings for capturing the northern lights in Iceland?
For further advice, see the full guide on photographing the northern lights in Iceland.
What are the best conditions to see the northern lights in Iceland?
Ideally, the solar wind activity should be high, which causes the aurora to become more vivid. You can check solar activity using the Iceland aurora forecast.
However, the only thing you can control is the amount of light around you. Avoid brightly lit areas and seek wide plains or other remote environments so you can see the sky clearly.
Why are the northern lights so common in Iceland?
Do the northern lights happen every night in Iceland?
2025 is actually a great time to see the northern lights in Iceland as the sun is experiencing a solar maximum. It's a period of heightened solar activity, which can lead to beautiful northern lights displays.
However, even if a solar storm is strong, the conditions must be right to see them. Therefore, they're not visible if it's bright outside, if it's cloudy, or if the light pollution in the city is too strong. Factoring in all requirements, the northern lights are, on average, visible about 3–4 days a week in Iceland during winter.
What are the chances of seeing the northern lights in Iceland?
Checking helpful tools like the aurora forecast in Iceland provides an idea of your chances each night!
Can you see the northern lights in Reykjavik, Iceland?
Can you see the northern lights from the Blue Lagoon?
To try this, you'll need to book your Blue Lagoon admission for the evening.
Alternatively, you can enjoy a combined experience with this Blue Lagoon and northern lights tour from Reykjavik. You'll be able to visit the famous geothermal spa before heading out on an aurora borealis trip!
What are the northern lights?
Their scientific name is the aurora borealis, and both terms are commonly used interchangeably.
What colors are the northern lights in Iceland?
What causes the northern lights in Iceland?
Because Earth's magnetic energy is strongest at the poles, it causes the solar particles to discharge and release energy in Earth's atmosphere.
As Iceland is relatively close to the North Pole, this energy is visible as colorful streaks of green, purple, and pink light in the sky.
The same effect happens on the other side of the world, where they're known as the southern lights or aurora australis.
What time of day is best to see the northern lights in Iceland?
Can I see the northern lights in the summer in Iceland?
However, there is a small chance of seeing them in Iceland in late August when autumn is approaching and the nights get darker. However, the chances of seeing the aurora are much better in Iceland's winter months when aurora borealis tours operate.
How long do northern lights sightings in Iceland last?
Aurora sightings in Iceland can last anywhere from 10–15 minutes to 1-2 hours!
Can I see the northern lights on my own in Iceland?
Do I need to book a tour to see the northern lights?
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