Leave the city lights behind and let experienced guides hunt the aurora for you. This small-group evening tour from Reykjavík focuses on maximizing viewing and photo opportunities with local weather-savvy routing and warm blankets on hand.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A cold wind cuts across the black sand and the sky opens — curtains of green and violet sweep and fold above the low hills outside Reykjavík. On a clear night a small-group tour takes you away from the city glow, the guide scanning forecasts and cloud cover as the van pushes into open country. You watch, camera ready, while guides suggest framing and settings and hand over wool blankets when the temperature drops.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; requires standing, short walks on uneven ground, and getting in/out of a van at night.
Wildlife
History
Icelandic sagas and folklore historically interpreted aurora as signs from the spirit world; modern visitors now read them as geomagnetic interaction with solar wind.
Conservation
Tours minimize impact by using existing roads and avoiding sensitive ground; reducing light pollution and sticking to marked roads helps preserve viewing quality.
Reserve your spot on the Northern Lights Small Group Tour from Reykjavik today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Dress in layers
Temperatures drop quickly at night; thermal base layers, insulated coat, hat and gloves are essential even if the day was mild.
Bring extra batteries
Cold drains camera and phone batteries fast — bring spares stored close to your body to keep them warm.
Use a stable tripod
Long-exposure aurora shots require a sturdy tripod; small travel tripods often introduce blur in wind.
Expect roadside stops
The tour seeks clear horizons rather than long hikes — prepare for standing on uneven ground and quick relocations by van.
Insulated jacket and warm layers
Keeps you warm during extended periods of standing in sub-freezing temperatures.
winter
Tripod and remote or timer
Required for sharp long-exposure aurora photography.
Headlamp with red light mode
Hands-free light for camera adjustments that won’t ruin night vision.
Spare batteries and insulated pouch
Cold quickly depletes electronics—keep spares warm on your person.
winter