Private Northern Lights Tour with Icelandic Treats and Liquor

Review of the Private Northern Lights Tour with Icelandic Treats and Liquor

If you’re in Reykjavik during the winter months, chasing the northern lights is almost obligatory—and this private tour offers an intimate, flexible way to see them. Priced at $580 per person, it’s not cheap, but the personalized attention and focus on maximizing your chances make it worth considering. The tour is designed for small groups or private parties, with a carefully curated experience that takes into account weather conditions, aurora activity, and comfort.

What I particularly like about this experience is how it combines practical guidance with local flavor. Your guide, whether it’s Rimas, Oli, or another expert, will not only hunt down the best spots away from city lights but also help you set up your camera for those elusive photos. Plus, the inclusion of Icelandic pastries, hot chocolate, and Brennivín liquor adds a flavorful local touch that makes the night feel cozy and authentic. The fact that it’s a private tour means fewer crowds and more tailored advice—something you’ll value if photography or a relaxed pace is important to you.

One potential downside to keep in mind is that the northern lights are notoriously unpredictable. Even the most experienced guides can’t guarantee a sighting, but the tour’s emphasis on weather forecasting and flexible planning means your chances are optimized. The only caveat: if the weather is truly poor, the tour will be canceled or rescheduled, which could be disappointing after an evening of anticipation. Still, the reassuring part is the option for a full refund if the weather doesn’t cooperate.

This tour balances expert guidance, local hospitality, and flexibility—making it a solid choice for anyone serious about witnessing the aurora borealis in comfort and style. If you’re after a personalized experience that enhances your chances and keeps you warm, this is a good pick.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Personalized Experience: This is a private tour, ensuring tailored attention and flexibility in planning your northern lights hunt.
• Expert Guidance: Guides are skilled at reading weather forecasts, finding optimal viewing spots, and helping with camera settings—crucial for that perfect shot.
• Comfort and Warmth: Warm blankets, hot chocolates, and Icelandic pastries make the experience cozy, especially important in Iceland’s chilly winter nights.
• Cultural Touch: Enjoy local drinks like Brennivín and traditional treats, adding a taste of Iceland to your aurora adventure.
• Weather-Dependent: The tour only runs when conditions are right; if weather is poor, you’re offered alternatives or a full refund.
• Group Flexibility: While private, the tour can include group discounts, and if the aurora isn’t visible, you might get an extra shot at seeing the lights free of charge.

Exploring the Journey: How the Northern Lights Search Unfolds

Starting in Reykjavik:
The tour kicks off with pick-up directly from your hotel, which means no fuss or long waits. This door-to-door service is a big plus, especially after a long flight or a busy day exploring the city. Once outside Reykjavik, away from the glow of city lights, your guide will start searching for the best vantage points.

Choosing the Right Spot:
Your guide’s weather expertise is key here. They’ll evaluate real-time forecasts and decide where to go—sometimes near the coast, other times further inland or on a hillside. The goal is always to find a dark, clear spot with an unobstructed view of the sky, increasing your chances of spotting the aurora.

Camera Tips and Photography:
Many travelers have commented on how helpful guides are with camera settings. If you’re trying to capture the lights, having someone who understands exposure, ISO, and focus makes all the difference. It’s a thoughtful touch that elevates this tour from a simple chase to a memorable photography session.

Snacks, Warmth, and Local Flavors:
While waiting for the sky to dance, you’ll be kept warm with blankets and served hot chocolate, pastries, and Icelandic liquor. These little touches turn an outdoor night into a cozy experience—especially appreciated when the temperature drops. Several reviews highlight guides’ enthusiasm for sharing local customs, and Oli, for example, was noted for his excitement and knowledge.

The Aurora Experience:
Some guests, like those reviewed, have been fortunate enough to see spectacular displays right away, while others have enjoyed multiple nights of patience. The guides’ detailed knowledge about the science and folklore of the northern lights adds an educational layer, making this more than just a photo opportunity.

Flexibility and Satisfaction Guarantees:
If the aurora doesn’t show up, the company offers the possibility of joining a group free of charge (subject to availability) or rescheduling. This policy underscores their confidence in weather prediction and the importance of giving you the best shot possible.

What the Tour Feels Like on the Night

Guides and Their Expertise:
Tour guides like Rimas and Oli don’t just take you to a spot—they’re passionate about the lights and eager to share their knowledge. As one review noted, Rimas was “very knowledgeable about every aspect of the lights and of Iceland in general,” which enhances the experience immensely.

Authentic Icelandic Flavors:
The inclusion of local treats isn’t just a nice touch—it’s a way to connect with Iceland’s culture. Warm drinks and pastries serve as a cozy buffer against the cold, while Brennivín provides a shot of local spirit, adding a fun, authentic flavor to the evening.

Photography and Viewing Tips:
Many guests appreciated the guides’ help with camera settings, which can be tricky in low light. Proper exposure and focus are essential for capturing the aurora’s vibrant, shifting colors, and guides are well-versed in helping you get the shot.

The Magic of the Lights:
Even with all the preparation, the aurora remains unpredictable. Some nights offer a full display, with shimmering curtains of green, red, and purple, while others might be quieter. However, the guided expertise, combined with the flexible planning, means you’re much more likely to have a memorable experience.

Value and Cost: Is It Worth the Price?

At $580 per person, this tour sits at the higher end of aurora-chasing experiences. But when you consider the personalized service, expert guidance, local treats, and the convenience of hotel pick-up and drop-off, many will find the value justifiable. The small group or private focus ensures comfort and a tailored experience, which is especially valuable in winter conditions.

The fact that the tour only runs under suitable weather conditions is reassuring—you’re not wasting money on a trip that’s doomed from the start. Plus, the option to rebook or receive a full refund if the weather is poor adds peace of mind.

For photography enthusiasts or travelers seeking a more intimate, less crowded experience, paying a premium for this personal service makes sense. For those on a tighter budget, some group tours might be more affordable, but they often lack the customization and flexibility this tour offers.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a personalized, flexible, and cozy northern lights experience. It’s perfect if you’re keen on photo opportunities and want help with camera settings. The tour’s focus on local culture and warm snacks also makes it suitable for those wanting to combine nature with Icelandic hospitality.

If you’re traveling as a couple, family, or small group and prefer a less crowded, more tailored experience, this tour fits well. It’s also suitable for travelers who appreciate expert guidance and flexible planning—especially in Iceland’s unpredictable winter weather.

However, if your main priority is strict budget or you’re okay with a larger group, there are more economical options, though you might sacrifice some comfort or personalization.

The Sum Up

In the end, this private northern lights tour offers a thoughtful balance of expert guidance, local flavor, and comfort. For roughly six hours, you’re not just chasing lights—you’re immersed in the Icelandic winter experience, with knowledgeable guides helping you optimize your chances and ensure you stay warm and well-fed. The inclusion of Icelandic treats, local spirits, and helpful photography tips elevates a simple aurora chase into a memorable cultural outing.

While there’s no guarantee of seeing the lights, the careful planning, weather tracking, and personalized approach make this tour a strong contender for an unforgettable Icelandic adventure. It’s best suited for those who value comfort, expert advice, and a more intimate experience, especially if catching the aurora is a bucket-list priority.

In short, if you’re looking to add a touch of Icelandic warmth and expertise to your northern lights experience, this tour is a smart choice. Just be sure to bundle up!

FAQ

How does the tour determine if it will run?
The tour’s guides read weather forecasts carefully, and a decision is made before 6 p.m. based on forecast accuracy. If conditions aren’t suitable, the tour will be canceled or rescheduled.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers hotel pickup and drop-off, the guided hunt for the northern lights, warm blankets, Icelandic pastries, hot drinks, and Brennivín liquor.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. You’ll be offered a different date or a full refund if the weather doesn’t cooperate.

Is this a group or private tour?
It’s a private experience for your group, but group discounts are available. The focus on privacy allows for more tailored attention and comfort.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts about 4 hours, making it a manageable evening outing, especially after a day of sightseeing.

What if I don’t see the northern lights?
Depending on availability, you may be offered to join a group free of charge, or you can reschedule your tour.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely—reviews comment on guides like Rimas and Oli being very enthusiastic, experienced, and helpful with camera tips and local insights.

Is pickup from my hotel included?
Yes, the tour includes hassle-free pickup from your Reykjavik accommodation.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layers, as you’ll be outdoors for several hours in cold weather. The tour provides blankets for extra comfort.

This comprehensive review highlights why this private Northern Lights tour from Reykjavik stands out. It’s perfect for travelers who want a personalized, warm, and insightful experience—raising your chances of witnessing one of nature’s most magical displays.