Forest Lagoon and Northern Lights Guided Night Tour

A Refreshing Balance of Relaxation and Natural Wonder in Iceland

If you’re planning a winter trip to Iceland and want a mix of soothing comfort and awe-inspiring nature, the Forest Lagoon & Northern Lights Guided Night Tour in Akureyri offers just that. I’ve read some glowing reviews about this experience, and it’s easy to see why travelers love the combination of a peaceful soak in geothermal waters with the thrill of chasing the elusive Northern Lights. The tour’s key selling points are the stunning Forest Lagoon with its exceptional views of Eyjafjörður and the personalized effort made by guides to find the best spots for Aurora viewing.

What I find particularly appealing are the quality of the guide, with one reviewer praising Siggi as “an amazing guide” who took scenic routes and shared fantastic photos, and the quality of the setting — a geothermal spa surrounded by birch and pine trees that enhances the feeling of being immersed in Iceland’s natural landscape. Plus, the tour’s flexibility in chasing the Northern Lights, with the guides actively seeking the best viewing locations, appeals to those who want a chance to see this natural phenomenon without the worry of light pollution.

However, one consideration is that Northern Lights sightings are never guaranteed since they depend on weather and sky conditions. While the tour offers a full refund or the chance to repeat the experience if the lights don’t show, travelers should come prepared for the possibility that cloud cover or poor weather might limit the spectacle. Still, the combination of relaxation and adventure makes this a worthwhile outing, especially considering the thoughtful itinerary and knowledgeable guides.

Key points / Takeaways

• Unique Location of Forest Lagoon: Surrounded by birch and pine trees, with views overlooking Eyjafjörður fjord, creating a peaceful and scenic atmosphere.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Siggi are praised for their scenic routes, photo tips, and dedication to finding the best spots for Northern Lights viewing.
• Value for Price: At $176, the experience includes the geothermal bath entrance, towel, and guided Northern Lights hunt—offering a memorable night out.
• Natural Phenomenon: The Northern Lights are unpredictable but active this winter; guides will try their best to find clear skies, and the tour offers free rebooking if no lights are seen.
• Small Group Size: A maximum of 18 travelers, which ensures a more intimate experience.
• Timing and Duration: About 4.5 hours total, starting at 7:30 pm, giving plenty of time for relaxation and chasing Aurora.

The Experience: A Deep Dive into Each Part of the Tour

The Forest Lagoon: A Spa with a View

Starting your evening at the Forest Lagoon is like entering a warm, tranquil haven with a view. The admission fee includes entry and a towel, so you just need to bring yourself and perhaps a swimsuit if you plan to linger. The setting itself is a highlight—situated overlooking Eyjafjörður, Iceland’s second-longest fjord, with the surrounding birch and pine trees adding to the sense of being in a true wilderness escape.

What makes the Lagoon special isn’t just the warm water, which gently eases away any travel fatigue. It’s the ambiance—the quiet, the natural surroundings, and the unobstructed views across the fjord. One reviewer mentioned that they had enough time to relax and enjoy the scenery after dark, which is exactly what you want after a day of sightseeing. Plus, the water’s energy and the nearby forest create a calming atmosphere that’s perfect for unwinding.

The Scenic Drive and Guides: Personalized Attention

The guides, especially Siggi, go beyond just transporting you from point A to B. They craft a scenic route that maximizes your chances of stunning views, whether that’s for the Northern Lights or just for the joy of the journey. Several reviews highlight Siggi’s dedication—he made multiple stops for guests to step out and enjoy the lights, sharing fantastic photos afterward.

This personalized approach makes the experience more memorable. One reviewer appreciated that they ended up with a private tour due to the small group size, which meant more attention and flexibility. The guides are also well-versed in local conditions, so they will try different spots to find the best viewing opportunities, which is crucial given that Aurora visibility depends heavily on weather and sky clarity.

Chasing the Northern Lights: An Exciting Pursuit

The second part of the tour takes you outside Akureyri to escape light pollution and hunt the Aurora Borealis. The guides don’t guarantee sightings—after all, this is nature’s show, not a fixed performance—but they actively try to find clear skies and the best vantage points.

From the reviews, it’s clear that this can lead to some spectacular results. One traveler described how Siggi “tried a few spots and soon found a perfect place,” leading to a “spectacular show.” The thrill of that moment—seeing the lights dance across the sky—is what makes this part of the tour stand out. The guides’ determination and knowledge make a big difference in giving you the best chance to witness this natural display, which is especially active this winter.

Practical Details and Value

At $176, this tour includes entry to the Lagoon, a towel, and guiding services. When you consider the cost of separate entry fees and the expense of organizing your own Northern Lights chase, it offers good value—especially since it combines relaxation with adventure. The tour lasts approximately 4.5 hours, starting at 7:30 pm, fitting comfortably into an Icelandic winter evening.

The small group size (up to 18 people) means you’ll get more personalized attention, and the mobile ticket makes it easy to join without fuss. It’s suitable for most travelers, including children, as long as they’re accompanied by an adult.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a relaxing evening with a chance to see Iceland’s famous Northern Lights. If you’re someone who enjoys scenic landscapes, appreciates a good guide, and wants a mix of comfort and adventure, this tour hits the mark. It’s also ideal for those who prefer small groups and personalized attention.

On the other hand, if your primary goal is guaranteed Aurora sightings, keep in mind that nature doesn’t always cooperate—so patience and a bit of luck are needed. Still, the combination of a peaceful soak and the excitement of Aurora hunting makes this a well-rounded choice for a winter evening in Akureyri.

Practical Tips for Participants

• Wear warm clothing, especially if you plan to spend time outside.
• Bring a camera or smartphone to capture the Northern Lights; guides often take photos, but a good camera helps.
• Arrive promptly at the designated meeting point at 7:30 pm.
• Be flexible—the guides will do their best to find the best viewing spots, but weather conditions can change quickly.
• Consider bringing some snacks or a hot drink if you get cold waiting outside.

The Sum Up

The Forest Lagoon & Northern Lights Guided Night Tour offers a harmonious blend of relaxation and natural spectacle. The carefully curated experience with knowledgeable guides like Siggi makes it stand out for its personal touch and scenic settings. The chance to soak in warm waters overlooking Eyjafjörður combined with the possibility of witnessing the Aurora Borealis creates a memorable winter evening. It’s especially suitable for travelers who value intimate group sizes, expert guidance, and a mix of leisure and adventure.

While Aurora sightings are never 100% guaranteed, the active winter conditions and guides’ efforts mean your odds are good. The tour’s price reflects the inclusive nature and quality of the experience, making it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a genuine Icelandic adventure away from crowded spots.

If you’re after an authentic, peaceful, yet exciting Arctic experience that balances comfort with the thrill of witnessing one of nature’s most awe-inspiring displays, this tour could be a highlight of your trip.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup is offered, making it easy to start your evening without worrying about transportation.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers admission to the Forest Lagoon, a towel, and guiding services. You’re responsible for any personal expenses outside the tour.

Can children participate?
Yes, children can join but must be accompanied by an adult.

Do I need to bring my own warm clothing?
While the tour provides the towel and access to the geothermal bath, dressing warmly, especially for outside viewing, is recommended.

What if I don’t see the Northern Lights?
Since sightings depend on weather and sky conditions, if the lights aren’t visible, the tour offers a free rebooking for another night.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, starting at 7:30 pm, including travel, bath time, and Aurora chasing.

Is the Northern Lights guaranteed?
No, as they are a natural phenomenon, but guides actively seek the best conditions to maximize your chances.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour can be canceled due to bad weather, in which case you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.