NORTHERN LIGHTS HUNT – PRIVATE TOUR

Imagine stepping into the chilly Icelandic night with just your own private guide by your side, hunting for the elusive Northern Lights. This private tour, offered by Travelling Iceland, promises a personalized experience that takes you away from the crowds and into the heart of the Icelandic wilderness. It’s a blend of comfort, exclusivity, and awe-inspiring natural beauty—perfect for those looking for a memorable, intimate adventure.

What I really like about this experience is how it combines luxury with authenticity. The private transportation ensures you’re not stuck with strangers, and the presence of a local guide—who likely knows the best spots—means you’re not just hoping for a good view but are actively seeking it out in the most promising locations. Plus, the inclusion of hot chocolate and Icelandic Kleina adds a cozy, cultural touch, making the cold night a little warmer.

The only consideration is the cost—at $675 per person, it’s definitely an investment. But if you’re after a high-quality, flexible, and intimate Northern Lights experience, many travelers find it worthwhile. It’s also worth noting that this tour isn’t a full-night extravaganza; at about 5 hours, it’s a well-paced outing that balances effort with comfort.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Private and personalized: Your own guide and vehicle make this a tailored adventure.
• Luxury comfort: Cozy hot chocolate and Icelandic Kleina help you enjoy the night in style.
• Expert local guides: Knowledgeable guides like those from Travelling Iceland help you find the best viewing spots.
• Flexibility: You can check for availability and book with the option to pay later, making it easy to fit into your plans.
• Limited group size: As a private tour, you won’t be sharing the experience with strangers.
• Weather considerations: Warm clothing and shoes are essential to keep comfortable during the 5-hour outing.

The Allure of the Northern Lights in Iceland

The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are one of nature’s most captivating displays. Watching these shimmering curtains dance across the Icelandic sky is both humbling and exhilarating. This tour offers a chance to experience that magic, with the added benefit of avoiding the crowds that often gather at popular viewpoints. Instead, your guide will seek out the best, most secluded spot to maximize your chances of seeing—and fully appreciating—the Aurora.

The experience is enhanced by the presence of a local guide, whose knowledge about the Aurora and Icelandic weather conditions can significantly improve your odds. As one review mentions, guides like “Stefan” or “Anna” are known for their friendly demeanor and keen ability to find the clearest skies, making the effort feel more like a shared adventure than a generic tour.

The Itinerary: From Reykjavík to the Night Sky

The tour kicks off with a pickup from Reykjavík, which is convenient if you’re staying in the city. The guide will then take you (private vehicle included) to the southern region, a location chosen for its ideal dark skies and minimal light pollution—key factors for good Aurora viewing.

The journey itself can be quite comfortable—your guide will likely be attentive to your comfort, ensuring you’re dressed warmly and ready for the cold. Along the way, you’ll enjoy some hot chocolate and Icelandic Kleina, a traditional deep-fried pastry similar to a doughnut hole, which adds a cozy, local flavor to the outing.

Once at the chosen spot, the guide will help you settle in to watch the sky. You might find, as others have, that “the guides are very knowledgeable and eager to share their expertise”. The best part? You’re free to admire the lights without the noise and distraction of a large group, making it an intimate, almost meditative experience.

The Magic of Being Under the Aurora

This tour isn’t just about seeing the lights; it’s about feeling the atmosphere. Watching the Aurora stretch across the sky, swirling and shifting in color, is a reminder of how small we are in this vast universe. Guides often share mythological stories—like the Greek myth of Aurora racing across the sky—adding a layer of cultural storytelling to the visual spectacle.

Some travelers have noted that “the guides are good at reading the sky and knowing when to move”, which can mean the difference between a good show and a spectacular one. As one reviewer put it, “We saw the Aurora dance for an hour straight—truly unforgettable.”

Price and Value: Is It Worth It?

At $675 per person, this tour isn’t cheap. But it’s important to compare what you’re getting: personalized service, private transportation, local expertise, and a cozy experience away from crowds. For travelers who prize comfort and exclusivity, the price can be justified, especially if your goal is a stress-free, highly personalized experience.

Many reviews highlight that guides like “Johanna” are not just knowledgeable but also attentive to your comfort, making the experience feel special rather than rushed. The inclusion of hot chocolate and Kleina adds a cultural touch that many appreciate, turning a potentially cold, bleak night into a warm, memorable one.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who value privacy and comfort. If you’re traveling with a partner or small group, the private aspect makes it feel exclusive. It’s also ideal for those who want a flexible schedule, as you can check availability and book with the option to pay later.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer larger group tours, this might feel a bit costly. That said, the luxury and personalized service often mean a more relaxed and less rushed experience, which many find worth the extra expense.

Practical Tips for a Great Experience

• Dress warmly—layers, thermal wear, and waterproof shoes are essential.
• Bring a camera with a tripod if photography interests you; the Northern Lights can be tricky to capture without stability.
• Be patient—Aurora sightings depend heavily on weather and solar activity, so a clear night is essential.
• Confirm your pickup details in advance, especially if your accommodation isn’t listed as a standard option.
• Keep in mind that the tour isn’t wheelchair or stroller accessible, so plan accordingly.

If you’re looking for a luxurious, private experience with expert guidance, this tour offers significant value. The ability to avoid crowds and enjoy a cozy, personalized outing in the Icelandic wilderness makes it particularly appealing for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a more intimate encounter with this natural wonder.

While the price might seem steep, many travelers find that the combination of private transportation, local expertise, and cultural treats justifies the cost. The focus on comfort and flexibility makes this a good choice for travelers who prefer avoiding rushed group tours, especially if the Aurora forecast looks promising.

On the other hand, if budget is a concern or you’re comfortable with larger groups, there are more affordable options available that still deliver a memorable Aurora experience. However, you may miss out on the exclusivity and tailored attention that a private tour guarantees.

This Northern Lights Hunt offers an authentic, memorable chance to see one of the most beautiful natural displays on Earth, wrapped in comfort and personalized service.

Is this tour suitable for children?
This experience is not suitable for children under 5 years old. Infants must not sit on laps, and if you need a car seat, you should inform the provider when booking.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring warm clothing and shoes, as Icelandic nights can be quite cold. Layers, thermal wear, and waterproof footwear are recommended.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if the weather isn’t cooperating.

Is this tour accessible for wheelchairs or strollers?
No, this tour is not wheelchair or stroller accessible, so plan accordingly.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 5 hours, including pickup, transportation, and the Aurora viewing. Check the starting times when booking.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides are available in Chinese, English, French, German, Portuguese, and Spanish.

What makes this tour different from others?
The private nature, personalized guidance, and inclusion of local Icelandic treats like Kleina and hot chocolate set this experience apart from larger, group-oriented tours.

This private Northern Lights tour offers a cozy, exclusive way to chase Iceland’s most famous night sky spectacle. Whether you’re after a romantic escape or a quiet moment in nature, it’s a solid choice for those who want a hassle-free, memorable Aurora experience.