Reykjavik: Northern Lights Chase Tours

About this experience

Northern Lights Tour From Reykjavik Leave Reykjavik's city lights behind on this evening tour across Iceland's dark countryside in search of the aurora borealis. Your experienced guide uses real-time aurora forecasts and cloud cover data to select the best viewing spots each night, maximising your chances of seeing this natural phenomenon paint the sky in green, blue and sometimes rare pink or violet. The comfortable tour bus takes you away from light pollution to prime locations across Iceland's wilderness. Your guide shares the science behind the Northern Lights, explains how solar activity creates the dancing colours, and tells traditional Icelandic stories about the aurora while you wait for nature's show to begin. What to Expect on Your Northern Lights Tour The tour departs from central Reykjavik and travels to dark-sky locations where aurora visibility is strongest. Your guide monitors weather conditions and solar activity throughout the evening, adjusting the route to avoid clouds and find clear skies. The bus makes multiple stops at carefully chosen viewpoints with minimal light pollution. Warm beverages and snacks keep you comfortable during the tour. When conditions allow, some stops include a campfire where you can warm up while listening to Sami legends and local folklore about the Northern Lights. Your guide provides photography tips and assistance with camera settings, helping you capture the aurora if it appears. Tours typically last 3-4 hours depending on conditions and aurora activity. The experience is educational throughout, with guides explaining how the Northern Lights form, why colours vary with atmospheric conditions, and the cultural significance of the aurora in Icelandic tradition. Before You Go Minimum age is 5 years due to safety regulations. The tour is not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs, though guide dogs are welcome. Dress in multiple warm layers with thermal undergarments, sturdy waterproof boots, hat and gloves as you'll be standing outside in sub-zero temperatures. Arrive 15 minutes before departure time. Bring your passport if the tour route extends beyond Iceland's borders. Northern Lights sightings depend entirely on weather conditions and solar activity, which cannot be guaranteed on any given night. Tours cannot be cancelled or rescheduled once booked. Photography is encouraged and guides assist with camera settings, though professional photos are only included with specific tour options. Follow your guide's safety instructions at all times during outdoor stops.

Highlights

• Chase the magical Aurora Borealis on a guided evening bus tour departing from Reykjavik into Iceland’s untouched wilderness
• Escape the city lights and journey deep into dark rural areas — ideal conditions for experiencing the full brilliance of the Northern Lights
• Learn the science, stories, and photography tips behind the Northern Lights from expert English-speaking guides on board
• Customize your experience with add-ons like hotel pickup.

What is included

• Comfortable tour bus transport from Reykjavik
• Experienced guide throughout the tour
• Real-time aurora forecast monitoring

Before you go

Arrive at the Reykjavik Terminal 15 minutes before departure if not using hotel pickup. Only one small piece of luggage per passenger is permitted. Dress in layers and bring waterproof outerwear for unpredictable weather. No food or smoking allowed on buses. Toilets available at stops. If no Northern Lights appear, you can rebook the tour for another night at no extra cost.

Cancellation terms

Cannot be canceled or rescheduled