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Northern Lights Tours In Iceland

Choose our small group aurora borealis tours from reykjavik or north iceland and experience the unforgettable magic.

Northern Lights Tours Iceland

About Our Iceland Northern Lights Tours

Our Northern Lights tours are a memorable adventure for those looking to witness one of nature's most spectacular shows. Tours start from Reykjavík or North Iceland and take you into the remote Icelandic countryside, away from city lights, for optimal viewing of the Aurora Borealis. Enjoy convenient pick-up and drop-off, hot cocoa, and cozy blankets to keep you comfortable. You can also get free photos taken by your guide during the tour!

Our 3 Best Northern Lights Tours

Magical Auroras - Small Group Northern Lights Tour

Price from:

Northern Lights Super Jeep Tour

Northern Lights by Boat in Iceland

Discover the aurora in small groups.

We keep our group sizes small for a more personal experience. Our tours use minibusses for remote spots and Super Jeeps for fun adventures on rugged terrain. For a deeper understanding of the Northern Lights science, we offer combo tours that include admission to the Iceland Aurora Museum. We always do our best to help you see the Northern Lights. Yet, even if they are not visible at that time due to unpredictable weather, we have you covered! If the lights don’t appear on your tour, you can take another trip free of charge within three years. Join us and experience the magic of the Aurora Borealis!

Top Tours to See the Northern Lights from Reykjavik

Whale Watching & Northern Lights Tour From Reykjavik

8 Day - Iceland Northern Lights Tour

Ice Cave & Northern Lights Tour

What are the northern lights.

Creating memories beneath the magical Aurora. Source: Arctic Adventures

Northern Lights are nature’s most jaw-dropping spectacle to date. They appear naturally when the sun's electric particles interact with gases in the Earth’s atmosphere. This collision causes the glow!

This phenomenon is most visible near the magnetic poles in the Arctic and Antarctic regions. Known as Aurora Borealis in the Northern Hemisphere, they are called Aurora Australis in the Southern Hemisphere. Together, they are often referred to as the polar lights .

You’ll easily recognize them. The lights look like waves or ribbons waving in the sky. Aurora Borealis colors , mainly green, red, and purple, perfectly contrast against the dark black background of the sky. It makes the spectacle look like a work of art.

The lights’ appearance depends a lot on weather conditions, solar activity, darkness, and location. Luckily, it’s common to see colorful light displays in Iceland, especially from September to April. The nights are dark and long, and the island is in the ideal spot, near a magnetic pole. You can track weather and aurora forecasts online or join a tour with guides who have years of experience in chasing the Aurora!

Explore more about the magical Northern Lights in Iceland and the science behind them.

Is it worth booking a Northern Lights Tour in Iceland?

Absolutely! Guided tours are led by expert guides who have experience looking for the auroras. They know the best places to visit and how to interpret forecast information accurately. On combo trips, you'll also enjoy some sightseeing along the way.

How much does it cost to see the Northern Lights in Iceland?

Our tours, designed to find the Northern Lights, start at just 12,990 ISK, or approximately 95 USD per person. For a unique experience, you can book a Super Jeep tour, which costs from 23,990 ISK or approximately 174 USD per person. We also offer more options to suit different budgets!

Can you see the Northern Lights from Iceland?

Yes, due to its proximity to the Arctic Circle, Iceland is the perfect destination to see the auroras. As Iceland is not densely populated, there is little light pollution. Even so, our tours always venture out from the cities to the countryside for optimal viewing.

Which is the best Northern Lights tour in Iceland?

Our most popular and highly rated Aurora tour is the Minibus Tour with Free Photos Included . You can also upgrade to a combo deal with the Aurora Museum, where you'll learn about the lights and get photography tips. Plus, you’ll save 10% when you book this combo and enjoy a convenient pick-up after the museum to chase the lights!

How to book a Northern Lights tour?

The easiest way to book a tour is through our website. Choose from our selection of tours and find the right one. Due to popularity, make sure to book your seat beforehand. Please remember that the Northern Lights appear from September to April. For a privately arranged Aurora tour or something more specific, please contact us directly .

Can I book a Northern Lights tour from Reykjavik?

Yes, the majority of our Northern Lights tours include pick-up and drop-off in the capital city. From there, you will be driven outside the urban area to see the lights. We also offer pick-ups from various locations in Iceland for private tours.

When and where can you see the Northern Lights in Iceland?

You can see Aurora Borealis in Iceland from September to April when the nights are darker and longer. The best chances are during December and January, when there are only four to five hours of sunlight each day. The best locations are outside of Reykjavik, such as Þingvellir National Park, Hvalfjörður, or the Reykjanes Peninsula, where you can escape artificial light.

Is Akureyri good for the Northern Lights?

Absolutely! The capital of North Iceland is ideal for viewing the ethereal glow. It’s not as developed as Reykjavik, so there won’t be a lot of light pollution. Our guided tour of Aurora in Akureyri will take you to the best viewpoints for the polar lights!

What to wear when hunting the Aurora?

Since you’ll be chasing the Northern Lights at night in winter, it’s essential to dress warm. Make sure to wear comfortable layers, including an undershirt, a fleece sweater, and a jacket on top. Don’t forget to include thermal underwear or leggings for extra warmth!

What are the best camera settings for photographing the Aurora Borealis?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer since capturing the auroras takes some trial and error. Be ready to try different settings on your camera. Bring extra batteries, and consider using a tripod to stabilize your shots.

Will my guide take pictures for me?

Yes, the guide will take a photo of you with the Northern Lights behind you. These can be single or group photos and are free of charge. They will be available online after the tour.

Will I definitely see the lights on the tour?

The Northern Lights are natural phenomena and we unfortunately cannot promise you will see them on our tours. Your chances of seeing them depend on a number of factors that are out of our control, including weather conditions and atmospheric factors.

How do I know if the Northern Lights tour is on for the evening?

You can check the Aurora activity predictions with information about the metrics that determine their visibility. If the activity level is high and the skies are clear, the tour is likely to go ahead. We will update our website’s tour departure information by 17:00 at the latest, and if your tour is canceled for any reason, you’ll receive an email notifying you of the details.

What are my options if my tour is canceled?

When Northern Lights tours are canceled, it’s usually due to unfavorable weather conditions.

In that case, your options will be to:

• Reschedule for another day.
• Find another tour to embark on and use the deposit for it.
• Get fully refunded.

Please contact our Customer Care team to re-book your tour.

What if my Northern Lights tour goes ahead and the Aurora isn’t seen?

A refund is not available if the Northern Lights tour goes ahead and none are seen. However, we offer the opportunity to join another Northern Lights minibus tour free of charge. This offer is valid for three years, giving you plenty of time to try again!

Please contact our Customer Care Team to re-book your tour.

Why Travel With Us?

Northern lights iceland photos.

Explore the Northern Lights photos from Arctic Adventures tours. Join one of the trips to capture your own aurora!

Need more information or assistance? We are here to help!

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Northern Lights Tours in Iceland

Explore the Land of Fire and Ice on an Iceland northern lights tour and you could witness the aurora borealis in all its multi-coloured, enchanting beauty. These self-drive and guided packages are curated by local experts and include accommodation, local transport and more.

33 tours available

Prices per adult based on bookings for two

• Iceland winter trips
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• Iceland New Year's trips
• All northern lights trips in Europe

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• Guided group tours of Iceland
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Iceland Full Circle Classic - Winter

South iceland at leisure - winter, northern lights circle tour, iceland's famous ring road.

Winter Highlights & Northern Lights

Ice cave & glacier lagoon.

Best of South & West Iceland - Winter

Golden circle & snæfellsnes, natural wonders of iceland - winter, northern lights & ring road, south & west iceland classic - winter, iceland full circle at leisure - winter, glacier lagoon & northern lights, south iceland & into the glacier - winter, winter highlights - private, golden circle classic - winter, golden circle, blue lagoon & northern lights, northern lights adventure in the westfjords, reykjavik, northern lights, best of south iceland - winter, golden circle, south coast & blue lagoon, best of south & north iceland - winter, golden circle, south coast & lake mývatn, golden circle & south coast - winter, south & west iceland at leisure - winter, christmas & northern lights, best of south iceland, christmas in iceland, reykjavik, waterfalls, northern lights, a christmas to remember, super jeeps, glaciers & blue lagoon, golden circle express - winter, classic south coast - winter, active iceland - winter, snowmobiling, ice tunnel & golden circle, northern lights circle tour - private.

1217702 ISK

Iceland Full Circle Classic - Winter - Private

1598386 ISK

Golden Circle & South Coast - Winter - Private

Iceland luxury adventure - winter, northern lights, winter wonders & blue lagoon retreat.

1157452 ISK

Iceland Luxury Escape - Winter

Northern lights, south iceland & blue lagoon retreat.

1623380 ISK

Iceland Luxury Escape at Leisure - Winter

2328410 ISK

Iceland Luxury Adventure at Leisure - Winter

1639689 ISK

South & West Iceland Classic Winter - Private

1220182 ISK

Christmas in the Countryside

South iceland & northern lights.

Countries Visited Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Denmark

Best of Scandinavia & Iceland - Winter

Train, cruise & minibus, need any help so far talk with our local experts.

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About Your Iceland Northern Lights Package

Picture yourself chasing magical, flickering displays of the aurora borealis in Iceland. Crafted by Reykjavík-based experts, these winter itineraries will get you to the right place at the right time for spotting the northern lights*. Plus, with insider tips from your dedicated travel consultant, you’ll have an unforgettable time exploring the country’s top spots and hidden treasures.

When you book an Iceland northern lights vacation with Nordic Visitor, you can expect:

• An authentic travel experience operated by a trusted local company • A dedicated travel consultant who will arrange your tour • Opportunities to hunt for the aurora , whether you choose a self-drive or guided trip • A comfortable journey in your chosen rental car or on your minibus tour • Handpicked accommodation for a relaxing stay in Iceland • 24/7 phone support during your adventure for peace of mind

1. Pick your favourite Nordic Visitor tour 2. Confirm (or customise) your package 3. Check your confirmation email 4. Book your flights 5. Get ready for your trip

*Please note, the northern lights are a natural phenomenon so sightings aren’t guaranteed.

Why choose Nordic Visitor

Book With Confidence

Secure your trip your way with Nordic Visitor. Book a tour with as little as 10% deposit. With a 20% deposit or more, you will receive our Cancellation Protection free of charge. You can also pay the full price right away to guarantee today’s exchange rate. Terms & conditions apply.

Trusted travel experts

Established in 2002, Nordic Visitor is a leading tour operator based in Reykjavík. With local experts that live and breathe Iceland, you’ll have a better chance of seeing the lights. Along with discovering the best aurora-watching spots, you’ll get insight into the must-see attractions and beyond.

Great reviews

Nordic Visitor is dedicated to the best service quality, and this is reflected year after year when TripAdvisor awards us with their Certificate of Excellence. We also take great pride in our customer feedback: 97% of our travellers say they would recommend us to friends and family.

Customisable tour options

Your travel wish list is unique to you, so why not personalise these Iceland northern lights tours to match? Book online to see what optional extras are available for your trip. For instance, you could extend your stay with additional nights, upgrade your accommodation and choose from handpicked excursions.

Full financial protection

With Nordic Visitor, you have peace of mind knowing your tour arrangements with us are 100% financially protected. Your payments are safeguarded as we comply with European Union laws on Package Travel regulations. This guarantees you a refund in the unlikely event of insolvency.

You are in good hands

When you travel with us, you’re never alone. Should any unforeseen events or weather issues arise, speak to a local travel consultant by calling our 24/7 helpline. If needed, they’ll rearrange your accommodation and activities to ensure your journey is memorable for all the right reasons.

Handpicked hotels

Your accommodation has been specially chosen and tested by us to ensure you’ll have a relaxing visit. So get ready to check in and recharge your batteries. Depending on your trip, you might be staying in the countryside. And low light pollution is ideal for seeing the northern lights more clearly.

Reviews for Aurora Tour Packages

Find out what guests loved most about chasing the northern lights in Iceland.

Janice United States

I cannot thank Nordic Visitor enough for providing me with a wonderful and memorable once-in-a-lifetime experience.... read more

I cannot thank Nordic Visitor enough for providing me with a wonderful and memorable once-in-a-lifetime experience. Everything was seamless, from the pickup at the airport, to the excellent hotels, delicious food served and our friendly, knowledgeable guide, Jakob. Nothing was too much trouble - we all thoroughly enjoyed our experience in Iceland, and all came away with wonderful memories of many of the amazing sights of such a scenic country. We were even lucky enough to see the northern lights. I will certainly travel with Nordic Visitor again and would recommend them to anyone thinking about visiting the countries where they offer tours. Thank you Nordic Visitor!

Duncan Australia

The tour was a great experience, and particularly for us with the good conditions. The amazing northern lights... read more

The tour was a great experience, and particularly for us with the good conditions. The amazing northern lights display we saw on the last night will be something we will never forget (and we have the photos!). The accommodation was really good throughout and was a real surprise as we moved away from Reykjavík. There was plenty of time through the tour to explore waterfalls and glaciers. I would absolutely recommend this to everyone who wants to experience the whole of Iceland. 

Your Northern Lights Trip Highlights

Imagine the cool winter air in your lungs, a clear night sky above and your camera at the ready as you hunt for the aurora. Visit Iceland and you could…

• Venture into the countryside to look for enchanting displays of the northern lights
• Explore the Golden Circle’s iconic sights: Gullfoss waterfall, Geysir , and Þingvellir National Park
• See icebergs bobbing on the turquoise waters of Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon
• Marvel at cascading waterfalls, such as Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss , when they’re frosted with icicles
• Experience Iceland’s dazzling ice caps on a guided hike or opt for an Into the Glacier excursion
• Unwind in the mineral-rich waters of the Blue Lagoon , perhaps even surrounded by snow-dusted lava fields
• Soak up wintry scenery in the wild Westfjords and stunning Snæfellsjökull National Park
• Wander along the black volcanic sands of Reynisfjara beach and gaze out at the troll-like sea stacks
• Immerse yourself in Icelandic culture in Reykjavík , and in the capital of the north, Akureyri

Advice for Northern Lights Holidays in Iceland

Check out these travel guides before your magical northern lights tour.

Northern Lights Guide

Learn more about this natural wonder and how to prepare for seeing it

What to pack

Layers, layers, layers! Come prepared for all types of weather

Climate & weather conditions

How icy is Iceland? You might be surprised

Winter driving in Iceland

In a country where 'ice' is part of the name, it's good to be prepared

Frequently Asked Questions About Northern Lights Tour Packages

Check out the answers to these most frequently asked questions to find out more about northern lights trips in Iceland. Plus, browse this Iceland Travel Guide for useful tips and information.

It’s also good to know that when you choose Nordic Visitor, you can Book With Confidence , safe in the knowledge that your payments are protected. Please read our FAQs and booking terms , for details about our booking process, payments and more.

1. What causes the northern lights?

While the northern lights, or aurora borealis, do look otherworldly, there’s a scientific explanation for this breathtaking natural phenomenon.

It all starts with solar storms around the sun that send blasts of electrically charged particles towards Earth. When they collide with the upper atmosphere, they produce glowing emissions. If a lot of these reactions take place at the same time, it causes a jaw-dropping light show that you can see in the sky.

The movement, shapes and colours you’ll witness depend on the type of atoms involved. Other factors include the intensity of solar activity and the pull of Earth’s magnetic forces.

For instance, green is often the most common colour you’ll notice during an aurora event. But if the levels of solar activity are high, you might also catch flashes of blue, purple and red.

Delve deeper into what causes the northern lights .

2. Is Iceland good for the northern lights?

Absolutely! Visit Iceland in winter – October to March – and you’ll discover it’s an excellent place to go if you want to hunt for the aurora.

This is because you’ll need darkness if you’re to see the northern lights, making Iceland’s long winter nights ideal. Low light pollution, high solar activity and cloudless skies are the other key things you’ll need to come together. Happily, you can also experience these in Iceland.

You’ll also find that the country has large unpopulated regions where there’s little or no light pollution – perfect for chasing the aurora. Plus, as it lies within the “northern lights belt” (or “aurora zone”) there’s lots of solar activity in the skies above Iceland.

Just wait for a night with clear skies, keep an eye on your aurora forecast app , and you could glimpse the northern lights. Uncover top tips and more in this guide to the aurora in Iceland .

3. When can you see the aurora borealis in Iceland?

The winter months of October to March are the best time for you to see the northern lights in Iceland . This is because, across the Northern Hemisphere, the nights are long and dark at this time of year.

In fact, during mid-winter – December and early January – the days can be so short that you’ll have around 19 hours of darkness. And the longer the nights, the more chances you’ll have to spot the aurora.

For more information on daylight in Iceland , check out this travel guide.

4. Can you see the aurora borealis in May, June, July or August?

There are plenty of reasons to visit Iceland in summer , but don’t travel in May , June , July or August if you want to see the aurora. This is because you need dark skies to see the northern lights. And during summertime, the nights are not dark or long enough to see them.

Instead, you’ll want to visit between October and March – the Icelandic winter – when your chances of seeing the lights are much better. It’s also possible to glimpse the aurora in early spring ( April ) and autumn ( September ).

Discover more about the best time to explore Iceland , depending on your interests.

5. Where can you see the northern lights in Iceland?

Thanks to winter’s long nights, you can see the northern lights all over Iceland at this time of year.

What’s more, the country sits within a zone called the “northern lights belt”, a band encircling the globe at latitudes of 65-72°N. With the most frequent and intense levels of solar activity, this region is the best place to go to if you want to see the aurora.

Remember, for the brightest and clearest displays, head away from any nearby light pollution. By venturing into the countryside, where it’s darker, you’ll get to enjoy this natural spectacle at its most vibrant.

Explore other places to see the northern lights on these aurora trips in Northern Europe .

6. How often does the aurora borealis occur in Iceland?

The aurora borealis can happen at any time throughout the year. But over the spring and autumn equinoxes, you’ll find that solar activity ramps up. This means displays of the aurora could occur more frequently around these dates in March and September respectively.

Compared to the middle of winter, the nights are shorter over the equinoxes. So although the northern lights might not be dancing quite as much in winter, you’ll have a better chance of seeing them during these darker months.

Along with the solar activity that causes the aurora, you’ll need a few other key factors to come together at the same time. These are clear skies, darkness and low levels of light pollution.

One of the most convenient ways to keep an eye on the levels of solar activity is to download an aurora app to your smartphone. Combine this with a local weather forecast, and you’ll get a good idea of when you might be able to see the northern lights. So keep a look out for when a cloudless night and high solar activity match up.

It’s worth bearing in mind that even if you do have the right conditions for the northern lights, they may not appear when you want them to.

7. What is the best way to see the northern lights?

The best way to see the northern lights depends on how you want to experience Iceland. Not to mention the other things you’d like to see and do while you’re here.

With Nordic Visitor, you can choose the travel style that works for your northern lights getaway. Take your pick from self-drive, small group and privately guided tour packages, along with stays in Reykjavík that include guided excursions.

To embrace the freedom of going at your own pace while chasing the northern lights, choose a winter self-drive tour in Iceland . Your package will include accommodation, a rental car, daily breakfast and more. You’ll also benefit from the insider know-how of your dedicated travel consultant who’ll make all the arrangements for you.

They’ll give you a detailed itinerary and hand-marked map, complete with recommendations on where to stop along the way. And with a car, you can make spontaneous stops on your trip. So if the aurora appears unexpectedly, you can hop into your car and pick a good viewing spot.

But if you’d rather leave the winter driving to someone else, opt for a small group tour of Iceland . This way, a professional guide will show you the country’s iconic spots and hidden gems, and share their local knowledge with you. On winter tours, they’ll also be keeping an eye on when the northern lights might appear.

If you’d like to be accompanied by a driver-guide while having the freedom to customise your trip, pick a privately guided tour . This option gives you the flexibility of an independent trip while benefitting from the expertise of a local guide.

Plus, if you have specific interests, we’ll select a guide to match. Not to mention you’ll be able to choose your travel companions – perfect for a break with friends or family.

On the other hand, multi-day tours are ideal if you’d like to stay in one location during your time in Iceland. Most of these packages are based in the bustling capital of Reykjavík.

As well as accommodation, your trip comes with handpicked excursions into the stunning countryside. This lets you discover top spots such as the Blue Lagoon and Golden Circle without needing to unpack and repack your bags.

8. How to photograph the aurora borealis in Iceland?

Seeing the aurora with your own eyes is a spellbinding experience you’ll never forget! But capturing the lights on camera can be tricky if you don’t take some time to get to know your camera’s settings.

An SLR camera with manual focus works well. And it helps to have a tripod to avoid blurry images. Here are some top tips for getting the best shots of the northern lights:

• Shutter release: For even steadier shots, get a remote shutter release so you don’t have to touch the camera at all when taking a picture.
• Spare batteries: Cold temperatures tend to deplete the life of your battery levels faster, so make sure to bring 1 or 2 spares.
• Head torch: This will be essential to let you see what you’re doing when you’re shooting in the dark.
• Image stabilisation: If your camera has this, turn it off.
• ISO: To increase your camera’s sensitivity to light, set the ISO to around 400, 800, or higher if possible.
• Aperture (f-stop): Set your aperture as low as possible. This will result in more light coming through the lens. On most cameras, you’ll find you can get this down to about 3.5.
• Shutter speed: Use a long exposure of 15 to 30 seconds. The longer the exposure, the more light your camera will capture.

9. Can I customise my tour package?

All of these northern lights packages have been curated by Iceland-based experts to ensure you’ll have an unforgettable trip. But it’s also possible to personalise your tour by extending your stay or adding optional activities to your itinerary.

In fact, it’s easy to tailor your trip when you book online. You can choose from extra night options and additional excursions. For instance, you could chase the northern lights by boat or super jeep. Or why not try activities such as relaxing in the Sky Lagoon, snowmobiling on a glacier, and exploring ice caves?

For the ultimate tailored travel experience, opt for a privately guided tour of Iceland . Not only will your dedicated travel consultant customise your itinerary to your needs, but you’ll also get a guide with similar interests.

If there’s something specific you want to do during your trip, just ask your travel consultant – they’ll have the inside scoop.

10. Can I choose the arrival date?

Travel with Nordic Visitor and you can choose from a variety of northern lights trips in Iceland with availability from September to April.

On self-drive, privately guided and multi-day packages, you can pick any of the available start dates in the tour’s online calendar. Meanwhile, on guided small group trips, select the date that works for you from the list of available departures.

Meanwhile, northern lights Christmas and New Year packages in Iceland are available over the festive period with selected December departure dates. If you want to travel at this time of year, make sure to book early so you don’t miss out.

To see which start dates are available for the tour you are interested in, check its availability calendar online.

11. When should I organise my flights?

We recommend checking to see what flights are available before booking your trip. That said, it’s best to hold off on purchasing your flights until after your dedicated travel consultant has finalised the arrangements for your tour.

Once you’ve heard from them, you can go ahead and confirm your plans for getting to Iceland.

12. What to wear to see the northern lights in Iceland?

The weather in Iceland is known for being unpredictable. There’s even a popular Icelandic word, “gluggaveður”, which translates as “window weather” in English. This is when it might look warm from the inside, but in fact it’s a cold day outside.

What’s more, when you’re chasing the northern lights, you’ll be out and about at night, so be sure to wrap up warm. With this in mind, it’s best to bring plenty of layers for your winter getaway. Here’s a list of what to pack for Iceland to get you started:

• Winter boots with good grip
• Waterproof and windproof jacket and trousers
• Down or synthetic insulated jacket
• Woollen or fleece jumpers
• Thermal baselayers
• Cosy hat, scarf and gloves
• Thick hiking socks
• Reusable water bottle
• Flask for a warm drink

For more tips on how to dress for the seasons, check out this blog on what to wear in Iceland .

Get in touch with us, whether you have a question about northern lights tours in Iceland or want to start planning your trip. Our Reykjavík-based travel experts want to help you make the most of your winter escape to Iceland.

Our Icelandic phone number is +354 578 20 80

How about a live chat with one of our local travel experts?

Blog Articles

Top 5 northern lights hotels in iceland, how to see the northern lights: viewing tips, best times and places to see the northern lights in iceland, top 10 things to do in iceland in winter.

Whether you have a single question or a special request, we're here for you.

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8 Day Iceland Northern Lights Tour Package

No booking fee, best price guarantee, free cancellation, secure payments, fully licensed local tour operators, information, experience the northern lights at night and discover iceland’s enchanting wonders by day.

Enjoy the magical Northern Lights when in Iceland! Explore the best of Iceland in 8 days on this magnificent Ring Road Trip. This tour will make sure that you see the Northern Lights in Iceland!

On this 8 Day Northern Lights Tour Package we will go off the beaten path to catch the Northern lights. This tour is the best Iceland tour if your main reason for visiting Iceland is to see the Northern Lights! You will also see the diverse landscapes that the country has to offer!

This tour is planned to make sure that you have the best chances of seeing the Northern Lights on your trip to Iceland. Since the northern lights are only visible during the evenings, we will have full days planned of sightseeing the magnificent landscapes of Iceland as well as some great activities. On this tour you will travel the Golden Circle and the Ring Road of Iceland to see all the top attractions in the country. We will hike impressive volcanoes and trek across glaciers, wail out to see to hunt the aurora borealis, go whale watching and try sea angling to mention a few. We will see the best waterfalls, hot springs, beaches, rivers, mountains and so much more on this Northern Lights Adventure in Iceland.

On this tour you will be making the most of your time in our beautiful country with so many bucket-list adventures!

Accommodation for 7 nights is included in this tour.

Attractions on the tour

• Northern Lights
• Northern Lights boat tour
• Northern Lights minibus tour
• South Coast
• Seljalandsfoss
• Skógafoss waterfall
• Vík village
• Glacier Hiking in Skaftafell
• Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon
• Reynisfjara black sand beach
• Skaftafell Nature Reserve
• Vatnajökull Glacier
• The Diamond Beach
• Vatnajokull National Park

Golden Circle

• Þingvellir National Park
• Gullfoss waterfall
• Geysir geothermal area

North Iceland

• Lake Myvatn
• Dimmuborgir
• Jökulsárgljúfur
• Myvatn Nature Baths
• Siglufjörður
• Whale Watching
• Sea Angling

East Iceland

• Hengifoss waterfall
• Litlanesfoss waterfall
• Djúpivogur village

Egilsstaðir

West Iceland

• Grábrók Crater
• Borgarfjörður
• Hike up to Grábrók Crater
• Barnafossar waterfalls
• Hraunfossar waterfalls
• Deildartunguhver

Activities on the tour

• Glacier Hiking
• Crystal Ice Cave

• Pick up and drop off in Reykjavik or the capital area.
• 7 nights accommodation in comfortable country hotels with breakfast and private bathroom.
• 8 Days Guided sightseeing to all the best locations around the Ring Road of Iceland.
• English speaking professional guide.
• Glacier Hike in Skaftafell
• Certified glacier guide
• Glacier equipment; helmet, harness, crampons and ice axe.
• Whale Watching tour
• Small groups
• Wi-Fi and Icelandic music on board the minibus

What to bring

• Dress according to weather
• Waterproof outdoor clothing
• Warm clothes
• Gloves & Headwear
• Hiking boots (available for rent when booking)
• Swimsuit and towel
• Camera (optional)

Good to know

• Order or availability of attractions may change due to road or weather conditions.
• Luggage limit: each participant is allowed to bring a small backpack and 1 piece of luggage weighing a maximum of 20 kg (44 lbs). If you have more or heavier luggage with you, you will need to book storage for the surplus luggage before you arrive, there is a small fee for using this facility. Luggage storage in Reykjavík can be added during the booking process of your order in the extras section. 
• If you are traveling on your own, you will receive a single room. Reservations for 2 people will be allocated a double room. For bookings of 3 or more, triple rooms will automatically be allocated. If these arrangements do not meet your requirements, please contact us.
• Remember to choose the Single Supplement Fee in the booking engine if you are traveling alone. 
• This tour includes a pick up from Reykjavik . You can see the designated pick up locations in the drop down menu when booking.
• You will have plenty of chances for bathroom breaks and to buy snacks on the way.
• Age limit for Glacier Hike is 8 years old.
• Pick up is from designated locations in Reykjavík on a drop-down menu at the time of booking. Pick up is not available from Keflavik airport or outside of the greater capital area.
• The Ice cave that will be visited on this tour is 100% natural and always changing. Since the ice caves are ever changing we will visit new ice caves each year in different areas of the glacier. The photos that you see on our website are from recent tours, but note that the ice caves might have changed due to the dynamic nature of these formations. 
• Lunch & dinner is not included in the tour. We will stop on restaurants where you can buy lunch & dinner. 
• It is recommended to bring some snacks and drinks for the day time adventures. Some light chips and soda should do the trick.
• This tour is perfect for groups, single travelers and families. 
• You will be traveling on a minibus on this tour. The minibus includes free Wi-Fi. We will introduce you to Icelandic music aboard the minibus. 
• We recommend you wear proper warm clothing, gloves, hat, scarves, and hiking shoes.
• If you don’t have hiking shoes , you can rent them at the time of booking. 
• In the rare case that we need to cancel the tour because of extreme weather, road conditions or other factors, we will assist you with rebooking to another date. If that does not work out for you, you will receive a full refund for the tour. 
• The minimum age bar to join the tour is 8 years for the hiking and ice caving part. If children below 8 years are on the trip then one adult will have to stay with them while the group completes these activities.

Day 1 - Day in Reykjavik – Northern Lights Boat Tour

Your first day starts in Reykjavik. This is a day where you can explore the capital city of Iceland and enjoy the friendly atmosphere.

You will be spending the night at Reykjavik Lights Hotel. Your hotel is in a great location for you to explore all the best that the city has to offer. You will have easy access to the best museums, shopping areas, restaurants, galleries, and historic landmarks.

We recommend that you walk around the city to explore some of the best attractions. Visit Hallgrimskirkja church, which is inspired by Svartifoss waterfall in Skaftafell. Walk along one of the oldest streets in Reykjavik, Laugavegur shopping street and visit one of Rekjavik’s best museums, such as the Reykjavik Museum of Photography, the Culture House or the National Museum.

On this day you are booked for the Northern Lights boat tour from the Reykjavik Old Harbor. Since the Northern Lights are only visible during the evenings, the skies will be dark and you will have the perfect setting to catch the Northern Lights! A Northern Lights Expert will take you on the tour and tell you everything you would like to know about the lights.

Accommodation of the nights: Reykjavik Lights Hotel (or similar)

Highlights of the day: Northern Lights boat tour, the wonders of Reykjavik, Sightseeing around Reykjavik

Included: One night accommodation in Reykjavik with private bathroom.

Day 2 – Golden Circle & South Coast

We start day 2 with picking you up from your hotel in Reykjavik. This day will include some of Iceland’s best attractions. You will definitely not want to miss out on any of the sightings that you will see on this day.

We will start with driving to Þingvellir National Park. Þingvellir is the only UNESCO World Heritage Site of Iceland. It’s geological, historical and cultural impact is something that you don’t want to miss when in Iceland. Þingvellir is where the historic Icelandic Parliament, Alþingi, was founded in 930. It is the oldest existing democratic parliament in the world.

Another interesting fact about Þingvellir is that the Mid-Atlantic Ridge runs right through it. Here you can see where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates meet. So, you can basically say that you have been in Europe and North America when visiting Þingvellir.

Geysir Geothermal Area

The next stop of the day will be at the infamous Geysir geothermal area. Did you know that all geysers in the world are named after the Great Geysir that is located here in Iceland? Unfortunately, the Great Geyser ins not active at the moment but it’s little sister, Strokkur, is very active and bursts water up in the air every 5 to 10 minutes.

The last stop of the Golden Circle will be the magnificent Gullfoss waterfall. Gullfoss is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Iceland and you will not be disappointed with this visit. Gullfoss looks great in pictures, but it is a lot more beautiful in real life!

Seljalandsfoss waterfall

On this day we will also visit one of the top attractions in Iceland – Seljalandsfoss waterfall. Seljalandsfoss is one of the most popular waterfalls in the world because of the fact that you can walk behind it to a cave. When you stand in the cave behind the waterfall you can see the water fall from the cliffs from a totally different angle. The waterfall is around 196ft (60m) and falls beautifully from the.

Skógafoss waterfall is another very popular waterfall in South Iceland. The waterfall is very powerful, but you can walk almost all the way up to it. It is very empowering to stand so close to a waterfall and feel the water in your face. You can also hike up the stairs that lay next to the waterfall to see the waterfall from above. You will also get great views of the South Coast of Iceland when you come to the top of the stairs.

The last stop of the day will be Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach. Reynisfjara is one of the top attractions in South Iceland and the most popular black sand beach in Iceland. Here you can see the massive waves, Reynisdrangar cliffs, and a basalt column cave. Reynisdrangar are two cliffs standing out from the sea. It is said that the two peaks are figures of two trolls caught in the sun and turned to stone.

We will end the day around Vík – one of the charming villages on the South Coast of Iceland

Accommodation of the nights: Hotel Geirland, Kirkjubæjarklaustur

Highlights of the day: Þingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, Gullfoss waterfall, Seljalandsfoss waterfall, Skógafoss waterfall, Reynisfjara black sand beach, Vík village, Northern Lights hunting

Included: Breakfast at accommodation in Reykjavik, One night accommodation in Kirkjubæjarklaustur with private bathroom, Guided tour in a minibus, visit to the highlights of the Golden Circle, visit the most beautiful waterfalls on the South Coast

Day 3 – South Coast, Skaftafell National Park & Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

On Day 3 we will continue along the South Coast of Iceland and into the glacial world of the country. We will drive towards Vatnajokull National Park where we will see a landscape that you have probably never seen before. Mountains covered with glaciers, glacier lagoons and black sand beaches and so much more will wait you on this day.

Skaftafell - Vatnajökull National Park - Glacier Hiking

We will start the day with driving towards Skaftafell in Vatnajokull National Park. On the way you will see Mýrdalsjökull Glacier, which is home to the infamous Katla Volcano. When we arrive at Skaftafell, you will discover Vatnajökull glacier, the biggest glacier in Europe. The glacier covers 8% of Iceland’s landmass. We will go on a 3-hour glacier hike on Vatnajokull glacier . A professional glacier guide will take you on the tour and tell you everything you might want to know about the glaciers of Iceland. The view from the glacier is magnificent.

Jökulsarlon Glacier Lagoon - Diamond Beach

After the glacier hike in Skaftafell we will continue to some of the most beautiful attractions in Iceland. We will be visiting Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. This is the most famous ice lagoon in the world, and it is breathtaking! The icebergs drop from Vatnajokull glacier into the lagoon and float around the lagoon. Many of the icebergs are huge but note that you can only see around 10% off them, so just imagine how deep the lagoon is. We will also walk over to the Diamond Beach. This is another famous black sand beach in Iceland, but this one is popular because of the crystal ice bergs that lay on the beach that look like diamonds. The beach is dotted with glittering blue and white icebergs that has washed ashore from the glacier lagoon.

We will continue on to Höfn village for the night. Höfn is known as the lobster capital of Iceland and is a small but charming village.

Accommodation of the nights: Hotel Höfn or similar

Highlights of the day: Vatnajökull National Park, Skaftafell, Vatnajökull Glacier, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, The Diamond Beach, Höfn village, Svínafellsjökull glacier

Included: Breakfast at accommodation near Vík, One night accommodation in Höfn with private bathroom, Guided tour in a minibus, visit to the highlights of the South Coast, Glacier Hike on Vatnajokull Glacier, All glacier equipment for the glacier hike, certified glacier guide.

Day 4 – Eastfjords of Iceland

This day will take you to the East Fjords of Iceland. The East fjords are a less visited part of Iceland but still very beautiful. The nature is very untouched here and you will see some of the most beautiful mountains in the country.

We will drive towards Djúpivogur village. On the way we will see Eystrahorn and Vestrahorn Mountains as well as we will drive past Lón, the Þvottárskriður landslides and Álftafjarðar Fjord.

We will make as top in Djúpivogur. Djúpivogur is a charming fishing town that has earned a reputation for its eco-conscious efforts and welcoming attitudes. Visit Eggin í Gleðivík (The Eggs of Merry Bay), a 34-piece outdoor sculpture dedicated to the birdlife in the area. You can also visit the black beach or a museum when in Djúpivogur.

Hengifoss & Litlanesfoss Hike

We will then continue our journey in direction of Egillstaðir. We will stop at Hengifoss waterfall. Hengifoss is the second highest waterfall in Iceland at 128 meters. We will be hiking up to Hengifoss so put on your hiking shoes and enjoy the magnificent views that will be on your way. On the trail we will also pass Litlanesfoss waterfall, a hidden gem that is probably one of the most unique waterfalls in the country. The waterfall is tucked between large basalt columns making it look very beautiful. Hengifoss is a very unique looking waterfall. You can se ash layers from an ancient volcanic eruption that make the rocks around the waterfall even more unique.

We will end the day in Egilsstaðir, the capital of East Iceland, where we will spend the night in a country hotel in a great location to see the Northern Lights.

Accommodation of the nights: Hotel Valaskjálf or similar

Highlights of the day: Djúpivogur fishing village, Hengifoss waterfall, Litlanesfoss waterfall, Egilsstaðir

Included: Breakfast at hotel in Höfn, Exploring Djúpivogur village, Guided hike to Hengifoss and Litlanesfoss waterfall, One night accommodation in Egilsstaðir with private bathroom.

Day 5 – Dettifoss, Mývatn, Goðafoss, Akureyri

Day 5 will be packed with magnificent sights and adventures. On this day you will see some of the most magnificent attractions in Iceland.

When we drive from Egilsstaðir in East Iceland we will head on to the wilderness of Iceland to reach Möðrudalur. Möðrudalur is the highest inhabited farm in Iceland at 469 meters above sea level. Here you can also find the highest coffee house in Iceland. We will drive through the “desert” of north Iceland and our first stop will be at Dettifoss waterfall.

Dettifoss is the most powerful waterfall in Europe, and it is a magnificent sight to see. You can walk very close to the waterfall, but always remember to be careful!

Myvatn - Námaskarð - Dimmuborgir

Next, we will head on to Myvatn area. This day is devoted to exploring the serene vistas and iconic nature of the Myvatn area. There are so many beautiful attractions to explore in this area of Northern Iceland. We will wander around Námaskarð, a wonderland of steaming hot springs and bubbling craters. We will also take you to Hverfjall Crater and Dimmuborgir lava fields. Dimmuborgir looks like a home to thousands of elves that live in the lava cliffs. Dimmuborgir is also known as the Dark Castles.

After exploring Myvatn area we will head on to Myvatn Nature Baths, a mineral rich blue water that looks similar to the infamous Blue Lagoon. Bathing in the Nature Baths is an optional activity that you can add to your booking when booking the tour. If you choose to book this activity, you will be soaking in the hot alkaline water for some time. Relax and take in the beautiful and unique views from this location.

Goðafoss waterfall

We will be leaving Myvatn in the afternoon and head on to Akureyri for the night, but first we will visit Goðafoss waterfall. Goðafoss is a historic waterfall and one of the top attractions in North Iceland.

We will be spending the night in a hotel in Akureyri and hopefully we will be able to see the Northern Lights on that evening in North Iceland.

Highlights of the day: Dettifoss waterfall, Myvatn Lake, Námaskarð geothermal area, Hverfjall Crater, Dimmuborigr lava fields, Myvatn Nature Baths, Goðafoss waterfall, Akureyri

Included: Breakfast at hotel in Egilsstaðir, Guided visit to all the highlights of North Iceland, One night in a hotel close to Akureyri with private bathroom.

Accommodation: Icelandair Hotel Akureyri or similar

Day 6 – Whale Watching, Siglufjörður, Tröllaskagi

Day 6 is full of adventures. We will start the day with Whale Watching in the small fishing village of Dalvík. The views from the village and from the whale watching boat are beautiful over Eyjafjörður and Hrísey Island. We will be joining a 3-hour whale watching tour to see humpback whales, minke whales, white-beaked dolphins and, on occasion, blue whales. This whale watching tour has a 98% chance of success rate so be prepared to see the whales swim around sea!

After the whale watching tour, we will drive to Siglufjörður, one of the most charming towns in North Iceland. Siglufjörður is a small fishing village with a rich history. We will stroll around the small town and get to know the history and see the beautiful surroundings.

Tröllaskagi

We will drive along Tröllaksagi and see incredible ocean panoramas and magnificent mountains on the way. We will end the day in a country hotel in Laugarbakki – an ideal place to see the Northern Lights in the evening.

Highlights of the day: Akureyri, Whale Watching, Sea Angling, Dalvík, Siglufjörður,

Included: Breakfast at hotel in Akureyri, 3-hour whale watching tour, Sea Angling, Visit to Siglufjörður, One night in a hotel in Laugarbakki with private bathroom.

Accommodation: Hotel Laugarbakki or similar

Day 7 – West Iceland – Borgarfjörður – Reykholt – Hraunfossar – Hvalfjörður – Northern Lights

Day 7 is the final day before we head back to Reykjavik. We will be exploring the West side of Iceland on this day. The West Iceland is not as much traveled as the South part of Iceland but it was recently voted as one of Lonely Planets best destination to visit.

The first stop of the day will be Grábrók Crater, an ancient volcanic crater formed by a fissure eruption and enveloped in lava. You will have a guided hike that leads you to a birds-eye view of the crater and surrounding area.

Hraunfossar & Barnafossar

After our visit to Grábrók Crater we will keep on going to Hraunfossar waterfalls. Hraunfossar is a wide curatin of water made up of tiny rivulets that careen out of a lava field. It is one of the most popular attractions in West Iceland. Next to Hraunfossar we will see Barnafossar waterfalls, or the children’s falls. The waterfall is named for a tragic folktale.

Reykholt & Deildartunguhver

Next on we will visit Deildartunguhver hot spring, the most powerful hot spring in Europe. Reykholt is located nearby and there we will get to know some history, literature and see the home of Snorri Sturluson – a famous Icelandic saga writer and poet. We will see the natural pool of Snorralaug where Snorri is said to have bathed.

Hvalfjörður

We will drive back to Reykjavik, but we will take the longer route, through the scenic Hvalfjörður. Hvalfjörður is a fjord that is located close to Reykjavik, but not many travelers go there. The sights from the fjord are very beautiful!

Northern Lights Minibus Tour

We will be back in Reykjavik around 5-6 pm. You will get a drop off at Reykjavik Lights Hotel but the day will not be over yet. In the evening we will pick you up again and take you on a minibus tour to hunt for the Northern Lights. Our Northern Lights expert guides will have checked the aurora forecast for the night and they will know exactly where the best place to marvel the spectacular northern lights will be! We will follow the forecast and take you to see the Northern Lights dance around the skies!

Highlights of the day: Borgarfjörður, Grábrók Crater, Hike up to Grábrók Volcanic Crater, Deildartunguhver hot spring, Barnafoss waterfall, Hraunfoss waterfall,

Northern Lights Bus Tour

Included: Breakfast at hotel, Guided visit to all the highlights of West Iceland, One night in a hotel in Reykjavik with private bathroom, Northern Lights Bus Tour

Accommodation: Reykjavik Lights or similar

Day 8 – Final Day in Reykjavik

On your final day you can stroll around the city to see all the beautiful attractions. Wander down new paths on foot or rent a bike. If you would like to see more of nature than the city life, you can easily reach some beautiful parts of Iceland from Reykjavik city. Take a bus to Mosfellsbær, Seltjarnarnes or Elliðarárdalur for waterfalls and mountain views. You can also visit the Reykjavik Botanical Gardens to see Iceland’s biodiversity. Next to the garden you can see the hot spring pools where women in Reykjavik used to do their laundry. Close by you can also find Iceland’s largest swimming pool, Laugardalslaug.

Highlights of the day: Reykjavik

Included: Breakfast at hotel in Reykjavik

Do you have a question?

This tour is sold by Iceland Travel Guide (When in Iceland ehf.) and operated by Arctic

From ISK 379,990

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