How Much Does a Northern Lights Tour in Iceland Cost?
Seeing the Aurora Borealis dance across the Icelandic sky is a bucket-list dream for many travelers. But what does this magical experience actually cost? The price of a Northern Lights tour in Iceland can vary significantly, so understanding the options is key to planning your budget.
This guide breaks down the different types of tours available, their typical price ranges, and the factors that influence the final cost. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly excursion or a once-in-a-lifetime private adventure, we’ll help you understand what to expect.
Breaking Down the Costs: Tour Types & Price Ranges
The single biggest factor determining the price of your tour is the type of vehicle you’re in and the size of your group. Each option offers a different balance of cost, comfort, and flexibility.
Budget-Friendly: Large Bus Tours ($50 – $90 USD)
Large coach tours are the most common and most affordable way to hunt for the aurora. These tours accommodate 40-70 passengers and follow a set route to known viewing spots away from city lights. The primary advantage is the low cost. The main disadvantages are the large crowds, limited personal interaction with the guide, and less flexibility to change locations quickly if conditions are poor. A significant perk offered by most bus tour operators is a ‘free retry’ policy: if you don’t see the Northern Lights on your tour, you can join again on another night for free. This makes it a low-risk option for budget-conscious travelers.
Mid-Range: Small Group & Minibus Tours ($90 – $150 USD)
For a more personal and comfortable experience, small group tours using a minibus or van are an excellent mid-range choice. With group sizes typically under 20 people, there’s more opportunity to ask the guide questions and less time spent getting on and off the vehicle. These tours are more agile and flexible, able to change plans and chase clear skies more effectively than a large coach. Many operators also include complimentary hot chocolate and Icelandic snacks, and some may even provide tripods for photography. This option strikes a great balance between cost and a quality viewing experience.
Premium Experience: Super Jeep & Private Tours ($150 – $500+ USD)
For the ultimate adventure, super jeep and private tours offer unparalleled access and exclusivity. Super jeeps are heavily modified 4×4 vehicles with massive tires, capable of navigating rough, snowy terrain to reach remote locations inaccessible to buses. This means you’ll be far from any crowds. A private tour gives you complete control over the itinerary and the guide’s undivided attention. While these are the most expensive options, they provide the most intimate and unique aurora hunting experience, often including professional photography assistance and premium refreshments. The price for a super jeep tour is per person, while private tours are usually a flat rate for the vehicle.
Other Factors That Influence the Final Price
Beyond the tour type, a few other variables can affect the overall cost and value of your Northern Lights excursion.
Tour Duration and Inclusions
Most standard Northern Lights hunts last between 3 to 5 hours, including travel time to and from your pickup point in Reykjavík. Longer, more specialized tours will naturally cost more. Always check what’s included in the price. A basic tour includes transportation and a guide. Mid-range and premium tours might add warm overalls, crampons for icy conditions, hot drinks, snacks, or even professional photos of you with the aurora. These inclusions can add significant value, as renting winter gear separately can be expensive. Always read the tour description carefully to avoid unexpected costs.
Combination Tours
A popular way to maximize your time and budget is to book a combination tour. These packages pair a Northern Lights hunt with another popular Icelandic activity. For example, you might find tours that include an afternoon visit to the Golden Circle, a relaxing evening at the Sky Lagoon or Blue Lagoon, or even an ATV adventure before heading out for the aurora hunt. While the upfront cost is higher than a standalone aurora tour, these combos often offer a better overall value than booking each activity separately. This is a great option if your time in Iceland is limited.
Quick Facts
- Large bus tours are the cheapest option, typically costing $50-$90 USD.
- Small group minibus tours offer a better experience for a mid-range price of $90-$150 USD.
- Super jeep and private tours provide the most exclusive experience, costing $150 to over $500.
- Most standard aurora tours last between 3 and 5 hours.
- Many budget tours offer a ‘free retry’ policy if the Northern Lights are not seen.
- The price often reflects group size, vehicle capability, and included extras like hot drinks or photos.
- Combination tours that pair the aurora hunt with another activity can offer good value.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is a more expensive tour guaranteed to see the Northern Lights? A: No, seeing the aurora is never guaranteed as it’s a natural phenomenon dependent on solar activity and clear skies. However, more expensive small-group or super jeep tours have experienced guides and the flexibility to travel further to chase clear weather, which can increase your chances.
Q: What is usually included in a basic tour price? A: A basic tour price almost always includes pickup and drop-off from a designated location in Reykjavík, transportation in the tour vehicle, and the services of an expert guide. Warm clothing, food, and drinks are not typically included at the lowest price point.
Q: Should I just rent a car and hunt for them myself? A: Renting a car is an option, but it’s only recommended if you are very confident driving in Iceland’s potentially treacherous winter conditions (ice, snow, high winds). Tour guides are experts at interpreting weather and aurora forecasts, know the safest roads, and can take you to the best dark-sky locations, which can be difficult to find on your own.
Other Books
