Chasing the Aurora: Northern Lights Tour from Reykjavik

Witnessing the Northern Lights dance across the Icelandic sky is a bucket-list dream for travelers around the world. But the Aurora Borealis is an elusive, natural phenomenon; a perfect symphony of solar winds and clear, dark skies. How do you turn that dream into a reality and maximize your chances of seeing the show?

You let the experts lead the way. We’ve found the definitive Northern Lights chase from Reykjavik—a Badge of Excellence tour that is so popular it’s currently trending. With an incredible 4.6-star rating from over 2,600 travelers, this isn’t just a tour; it’s a perfectly crafted, cozy, and clever expedition designed to give you the best possible chance of experiencing the magic.

Why This is the Best Way to Chase the Aurora

With the dark, clear nights of September here, the 2025 aurora season is in full swing. Here’s why this small-group tour is your best bet for a successful and memorable night.

• You’re with Expert Aurora Hunters: The single most important factor for success is knowing where to go. This tour is led by professional local guides who are masters at reading the forecasts, communicating with a network of spotters, and finding the secret locations with the clearest skies, far from the city’s light pollution. As traveler Kevin_H noted, his guide Kobe “noted the Aurora with naked eye when everyone else didn’t yet, which required much experience I guess.”
• The “See Them or Try Again for Free” Guarantee: This is a game-changer. The Northern Lights are unpredictable. This company removes the risk by allowing you to rebook your tour for free on another night if the aurora doesn’t appear. You can keep trying until you see them, which shows incredible confidence and commitment to their guests.
• Cozy Comforts Under the Stars: Forget shivering in a cold bus. This tour elevates the experience with thoughtful, cozy touches. You’ll be treated to homemade Icelandic hot chocolate, delicious local cinnamon buns, and given a warm wool blanket to snuggle up in while you wait for the magic to happen.
• Capture the Memory Forever (For Free!): The aurora can be notoriously difficult to photograph with a standard phone or camera. This tour solves that problem by including FREE professional photos from the night. Your guide will capture you with the dancing lights in the background, ensuring you have a stunning souvenir to remember the moment forever.

Your 4-Hour Northern Lights Chase: What to Expect

Get ready for an evening of cosmic wonder and cozy comforts.

Evening Pickup in Reykjavik

Your adventure begins with a convenient pickup from your accommodation or a nearby designated bus stop in Reykjavik. The pickup time varies by season (later in August/early September, earlier in the deep winter) to maximize darkness.

The Hunt Begins

Once everyone is on board the comfortable, Wi-Fi-equipped vehicle, your expert guide will explain the plan for the night. Using the latest solar and weather forecasts, you’ll drive out of the city and into the dark Icelandic countryside. The guides are masters of “the chase,” and they won’t hesitate to change locations throughout the evening to find a break in the clouds and the best possible view.

The Aurora Experience

Once at a prime viewing spot, it’s time to get comfortable. Wrap yourself in a wool blanket, sip your rich hot chocolate, and gaze at the star-filled sky. Your guide’s trained eyes will be scanning for the first signs of the aurora, which often starts as a faint, greyish-green arc. With luck, this will build into the vibrant, dancing curtains of light you’ve dreamed of. While you watch, your guide will be taking incredible photos to share with you after the tour.

Return to Reykjavik

After several hours of hunting and viewing, you’ll be driven back to Reykjavik and dropped off at your pickup point, either buzzing with the excitement of a successful sighting or with a free pass to try your luck again on another night.

Key Details for Your Aurora Hunt

• Duration: 4 hours (approx.)
• Group Size: An intimate small-group setting with a maximum of 19 travelers.

What’s Included?

• Homemade hot chocolate made from real Icelandic chocolate
• Professional local driver-guide
• Pickup & drop-off at your accommodation (or closest bus stop if downtown)
• WiFi on board
• Cinnamon rolls
• Wool blanket
• FREE professional high quality photos
• Snacks (Home baked Icelandic Kleina pastry)

Important Pro-Tip: DRESS WARM!

• The key to enjoying your night is to be comfortable. Dress in multiple warm layers. A thermal base layer, wool sweater, and a waterproof/windproof outer jacket are essential. Don’t forget a warm hat, gloves, a scarf, and warm, sturdy boots.

Ready to Witness the Magic?

Don’t leave the most magical experience of your Icelandic trip to chance. Join the experts who know how to find the aurora, keep you cozy, and capture the memory for you.

If you’re looking for more travel guide like Iceland South Coast Tour and Great Barrier Reef Cruise from Cairns subscribe to join us.