5-Day Northern Lights Hunt & Glacier Lagoon Tour

Iceland’s natural beauty is nothing short of spectacular, and one of the best ways to see its highlights is through a well-organized, multi-day tour. The 5-Day Northern Lights Hunt & Glacier Lagoon Tour by Snaeland Travel offers an in-depth look at some of Iceland’s most iconic sights, including waterfalls, geysers, glaciers, black beaches, and even geothermal greenhouses. While it’s a package that hits many major highlights, what makes it particularly appealing is the careful planning to maximize your chances of seeing the Northern Lights—plus the comfort of full-sized bus travel with knowledgeable guides.

Two things I really like about this tour are the expert guidance—with local guides who seem to know their stuff—and the stunning diversity of sites, from the fiery geysers at Geysir to the shimmering icebergs at Jökulsárlón. Also, the fact that accommodations are included for four nights, all with private bathrooms, makes it a stress-free experience. However, one consideration is the price point, which at just over $1,050 per person, may seem steep to budget travelers, but the value lies in the convenience, expert guiding, and the quality of sights covered.

A possible drawback is the pace of the itinerary—it’s quite full, and some travelers might find the days long, especially when traveling from scenic spot to scenic spot. The tour is designed for those who want a comprehensive Iceland experience without the hassle of planning each detail. If you’re looking for a relaxed, slow-paced trip, this might not be the best fit. Still, for those eager to see Iceland’s most photogenic sites with a good chance of catching the Northern Lights, this tour offers a solid, well-rounded package.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Expert local guides enhance the experience with knowledge and friendly assistance.
• Comfortable full-sized bus transport ensures space and luggage flexibility, making long days more bearable.
• Carefully curated itinerary covers Iceland’s top sights—waterfalls, glaciers, geysers, black beaches, and geothermal greenhouses.
• Accommodation included at quality hotels with private bathrooms, reducing the hassle of finding lodging.
• The Northern Lights are a real highlight, with some nights offering a magical display if weather permits.
• Value for money is evident in the included meals, guided commentary, and the chance to visit remote but iconic locations.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary and What It Means for You

Starting in Reykjavik and the Golden Circle

Your adventure begins with a hotel stay in Reykjavik, giving you a chance to settle in before the early start. The next day, the Golden Circle takes you to three of Iceland’s most famous sites: Þingvellir National Park, Geysir, and Gullfoss. Visiting Þingvellir offers a chance to walk between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates—an active reminder of Iceland’s volcanic heart. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site rich in both history and geology.

Geysir’s hot springs are lively, with Strokkur erupting every few minutes, which is fun to watch, especially if you’re a photographer. The greenhouse at Friðheimar is a unique stop; here you’ll see how Iceland uses geothermal energy to grow produce like tomatoes and cucumbers all year round. Visitors often enjoy meeting Icelandic horses at the stables, adding a charming touch to this stop.

Gullfoss, or the “Golden Waterfall,” is a jaw-dropper—powerful, wide, and often shimmering in the sunlight. It’s a classic for a reason. After this, you’ll head to Vík for your overnight stay—an ideal location for chasing the Northern Lights if the conditions align.

South Coast to the Glacial Marvels

Day three takes you further east along Iceland’s south coast to the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. Here, you’ll witness floating icebergs in shades of blue and white, calving from Breiðamerkurjökull glacier. The nearby Diamond Beach is a photographer’s dream—black volcanic sand littered with glittering ice chunks that look like jewels.

The Skaftafell National Park offers a contrast—lush landscapes, glaciers, and waterfalls like Svartifoss, famous for its dark basalt columns. Many reviews mention how this stop exceeded expectations, with “breathtaking landscapes” that are hard to beat. Traveling with a local guide like Peter, as some reviews note, adds valuable context, making every stop more meaningful.

The South Coast’s Iconic Waterfalls and Blue Lagoon

On day four, you explore the south coast’s waterfalls—Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss—both magnificent. Skógafoss is especially photogenic with rainbows often forming in its mist, and Seljalandsfoss offers the rare chance to walk behind a waterfall, a truly immersive experience. The tour’s timing often coincides with good weather, which will influence how spectacular these sites appear.

The Blue Lagoon is the tour’s grand finale—an internationally renowned geothermal spa listed among the world’s wonders by National Geographic. It’s optional, meaning you can choose to indulge in the mineral-rich waters, rejuvenating after days of sightseeing. Some reviews highlight the quality of the hotel near Vik and the overall smooth organization, which helps keep the experience enjoyable even on busy days.

Final Day and Departure

The last day brings you back to Reykjavik, with a stop at Keflavik Airport for your flight home. This includes a straightforward transfer, making logistics easier. The tour’s inclusive accommodations and guided insights mean you don’t have to worry about planning or navigating on your own—just enjoy the scenery and the company of fellow travelers.

What Travelers Say and Why It Matters

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledge and helpfulness of the guides, with Peter singled out as a “gem” by one traveler. The hotels are described as clean and comfortable, with some noting that the remote Hotel Katla had high standards especially in their dinner buffet. The overall impression is that the tour provides “all the best spots” without feeling rushed—testament to the thoughtful itinerary.

Many guests appreciated the flexibility—from the option to see Northern Lights on clear nights to the free luggage allowance on the spacious bus. The coverage of Iceland’s top sights, combined with the chance to relax in geothermal baths or enjoy tiny details like meeting Icelandic horses, creates a well-rounded adventure.

How It Feels in Practice

On a practical level, the tour is paced to give you enough time at each location without feeling hurried. Expect early mornings, sometimes a bit chilly, but balanced with the comfort of a full-sized bus and quality accommodations. The full-day stops—like Jökulsárlón and Skaftafell—are long enough to explore but not exhausting.

The cost might seem high, but considering that lodging, guided tours, and some meals are included, it’s a good value for those wanting a comprehensive Iceland experience with minimal planning. Plus, the chance to see the Northern Lights adds a special, almost magical, element that rare travelers will not forget.

Who Will Love This Tour

This trip is ideal for travelers who want to see Iceland’s most famous sights without the hassle of rental cars or complex itineraries. It suits those who value expert guides and comfortable transport over a more leisurely pace. If you’re eager for a photo-heavy, bucket-list journey that also offers the chance to see the Northern Lights, this is a strong pick.

It’s also good for people who prefer a structured schedule that hits all the highlights but still leaves some room for spontaneous moments, like spotting the Aurora Borealis. Because accommodations are included, it’s best suited for those who want a hassle-free trip, especially first-timers or travelers who appreciate guided commentary and local insights.

Price and Value

For around $1,059 per person, this tour packs in a lot—transport, guiding, hotel stays, and some meals—making it a convenient way to see Iceland’s highlights. While the cost might seem steep, the value lies in not worrying about logistics, having knowledgeable guides to deepen your understanding, and the ability to visit remote locations that would be difficult on your own.

The optional Blue Lagoon adds a little extra, but even without it, the trip offers a broad, immersive experience that covers waterfalls, glaciers, beaches, and geothermal marvels. Think of it as an all-inclusive snapshot of Iceland’s top attractions, with expert guidance and comfortable travel.

Practical Details: Logistics and Tips

• Meeting point is at Hotel Klettur in Reykjavik, with the tour starting at 9:00 am.
• Accommodation is in Reykjavik and Vík, with private bathrooms and quality standards.
• Luggage: No limits, so pack comfortably for variable weather.
• Transport: Full-sized bus with ample room and good handling of Icelandic roads.
• Guides: Knowledgeable and friendly—reviews often mention specific guides like Peter as being particularly helpful.
• Meals: Breakfast included; other meals are on your own unless specified.
• Best time for Northern Lights: Clear nights (usually winter months) offer the best chance for a sighting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Blue Lagoon included in the tour price?
No, the Blue Lagoon is an optional extra, and you can choose to visit or skip it at additional cost.

What’s the accommodation like?
You’ll stay in clean, comfortable hotels with private bathrooms, in Reykjavík and Vík, making long days easier and more restful.

How long are the sightseeing stops?
Most stops last around 1-3 hours, giving you enough time to explore and take photos without feeling rushed.

Is there a good chance of seeing the Northern Lights?
While it depends on weather conditions, some nights in Vík are prime for viewing, especially if the skies are clear.

Are meals included?
Breakfast at the hotels is included for all days; other meals are paid separately.

What’s the group size?
The tour caps at 25 travelers, ensuring more personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.

Final Thoughts

This 5-day Iceland tour offers an excellent way to see the country’s most iconic sights with expert guidance and comfortable transport. It’s perfect for travelers eager to experience waterfalls, glaciers, and black beaches, with the added thrill of hunting for the Northern Lights. The thoughtfully crafted itinerary balances sightseeing with moments of awe, all while avoiding the logistical headaches of independent travel.

If you’re someone who values knowledgeable guides, cozy accommodations, and a well-paced schedule, this trip delivers. It’s best suited for those who want a comprehensive, hassle-free Iceland adventure, and are excited by the possibility of witnessing one of nature’s most breathtaking displays—the Aurora Borealis.

Enjoy the journey, and may your trip be filled with stunning views and unforgettable memories!