From Reykjavik: Extreme Northern Lights Tour with Dinner

Review of the From Reykjavik: Extreme Northern Lights Tour with Dinner

Planning to see the Northern Lights in Iceland? Then this extreme Northern Lights tour from Reykjavik offers an exhilarating way to maximize your chances. Instead of sticking close to the city, this 12-hour journey takes you on a road trip to Akureyri and beyond, covering more ground—and more sky—where the Aurora is most likely to appear.

Two aspects I really appreciate are the luxury of flexibility—traveling to different regions based on weather conditions—and the unique cultural touch of Viking costumes and weapons, which add a playful, memorable element to the evening. That said, this tour’s long hours and the need to bundle up in warm clothes could be a challenge for some travelers, especially on chilly nights. Still, the inclusion of high-quality photography and a free rebooking offer makes it a compelling choice for dedicated Aurora chasers.

Key points / Takeaways

• Travel flexibility allows the guide to chase the Aurora across Iceland’s diverse regions, improving your odds of a sighting.
• Small group size (up to 14 people) ensures personalized attention and a cozy experience—perfect for those who dislike large tour buses.
• Professional photography and high-definition images help you remember the night, whether or not you catch the lights.
• Viking costumes and props add a fun, cultural layer, making nighttime photos more playful.
• Traditional Icelandic meal (lamb or bean soup) offers warmth and authentic local flavor during the chilly night.
• Unlimited rebookings if you don’t see the Aurora the first time, giving you peace of mind and multiple chances to witness the lights.

An in-depth look at the experience

How the Tour Runs and What to Expect

This adventure starts with a pick-up in Reykjavik around 5 PM, so be prepared for a late night. You’ll board a white minibus marked with the Aurora Viking logo, which is easy to spot. The driver-guide, often praised for their knowledge and friendliness, will lead you on a carefully planned route to increase your chances of Aurora sightings, often traveling to places like Akureyri, Kirkjufell, or other scenic spots along the way.

The journey itself is part of the fun. You’ll be covering many miles—driving to Akureyri and back, or anywhere in between—which diversifies your viewing opportunities. This mobility makes a big difference because the Aurora is notoriously unpredictable, and what’s visible in one part of Iceland might not be in another. Having scope to go where the Aurora is active offers a better shot at witnessing the dancing lights.

The Cultural Touch and Photography

One of the more unique features of this tour is the Viking costumes and weapons sourced from a local museum. You’ll have the chance to dress up and take photos with authentic Viking gear, making your night both fun and culturally rich. Many reviews highlight how these photos can be surprisingly good, especially with the assistance of a professional photographer who will help you capture high-quality images.

The photographer also takes HD pictures of the Aurora itself, which you can then print or keep as a souvenir. If the lights cooperate, you’ll leave with stunning images that are far better than what most phone cameras can produce in low light. The experience of playing with Viking props adds a playful, memorable dimension that elevates this beyond a typical Aurora tour.

The Meal and Comfort

A warm bowl of Icelandic lamb soup or vegetarian bean soup is included, which is perfect after hours of outdoor cold. The soup is hearty and authentic, giving you a taste of local cuisine while you wait for the lights. Since you’ll be outside most of the evening, dressing warmly is vital. The tour doesn’t supply clothing, so bring layered, insulated gear to stay comfortable during the long wait.

The Guarantee and Rebooking Policy

One of the major selling points is the unlimited rebooking if you don’t see the Aurora on your first night. Just send an email before noon the next day to reschedule—no extra charge. Keep in mind, if you rebook and don’t show up without at least 24 hours’ notice, you forfeit the chance to try again free of charge. This policy shows confidence in their ability to find the Aurora but also encourages commitment.

Group Size and Cost

With a small group capped at 14 participants, you get a more intimate experience than big bus tours. The cost is justified by the inclusive extras: local food, professional photography, Viking props, and the flexibility to chase the lights across Iceland’s varied terrain. Compared to other tours that simply sit in one spot, this one offers more chances—and more fun.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This trip suits adventurous travelers who don’t mind long nights and cold weather in pursuit of the Northern Lights. It’s ideal for those who value personalized experiences, thanks to the small group size, and who enjoy a touch of culture and humor with Viking costumes. Photographers, or anyone wanting high-quality Aurora images, will particularly benefit from the professional photography.

However, if you prefer a shorter, less intense experience or are sensitive to cold, this may not be the best fit. It’s also worth noting that warm clothing isn’t supplied, so packing layers is essential. Those with mobility issues or who travel with very young children might find the long hours and outdoor conditions challenging.

Price and Overall Value

Given that the tour includes a guided drive, local meal, professional photography, Viking props, and a rebooking guarantee, the price offers good value. You’re paying for a comprehensive, flexible experience designed for those serious about seeing the Aurora while also enjoying Icelandic culture. The small group size enhances the sense of intimacy and personalization, often lacking in larger tours.

The extra cost of the optional rebooking might seem high, but it’s a smart way to increase your odds of witnessing the Aurora without risking your entire trip. For Aurora enthusiasts, this multi-chance approach, combined with the fun Viking theme, makes it a memorable adventure.

The Sum Up

This extreme Northern Lights tour from Reykjavik combines adventure, culture, and practicality in a way that appeals to travelers eager to see the Aurora in Iceland’s vast night sky. Its flexibility to chase the lights across different regions, along with the inclusion of professional photography and Viking costumes, makes it stand out as an engaging, value-packed option.

It’s best suited for those who love a bit of rugged exploration, don’t mind late nights, and want a more personalized experience. The small group setting ensures you’ll get plenty of attention from guides who are knowledgeable and friendly. With a flexible rebooking policy, you have multiple opportunities to catch the Aurora—making this a worthwhile pick for dedicated sky-watchers.

If you’re after an authentic, fun, and well-organized Northern Lights adventure, this tour offers an exciting way to make Iceland’s night sky your own.

FAQ

Do I need to bring warm clothes?
Yes, bringing layered, insulated clothing is essential since the tour takes place outdoors at night in cold weather.

Can I see the Northern Lights if the weather is cloudy?
While the tour aims to chase clear skies, cloud cover might prevent sightings. The flexible route helps but doesn’t guarantee the Aurora.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers pick-up and drop-off, a professional guide, local meals (lamb or bean soup), high-definition photos, Viking props, and the unlimited rebooking option.

How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 12 hours, starting around 5 PM and returning between 1 and 5 AM.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 7 due to the late hours and outdoor conditions.

What happens if I don’t see the Aurora?
You can rebook another night free of charge by emailing the operator before noon the next day. Just remember, no-shows or missing the rebooking window forfeit the free retry.

How many people are in each group?
Groups are limited to 10-14 participants, ensuring a more personal and comfortable experience.