northern lights cruise iceland reykjavik

Northern Lights Tours

Our most popular northern lights tours:

Northern Lights Cruise from Reykjavík

Search for northern lights on this thrilling winter cruise where we maximise your chances of sightings! Watching the auroras dance in the vast starry space with the gentle lull of the ocean beneath us is an experience of a lifetime.

Whale Watching & Northern Lights Cruise

This combo unites some of the most popular winter attractions in Iceland - classic whale watching and northern lights from down town Reykjavík!

More northern lights tours:

#1 rated Northern Lights tour

On this small group Northern Lights tour, our experienced and knowledgeable local guides enjoy showing our guests all the wonders our beautiful island has to offer! The tour includes FREE photos and hot homemade chocolate and cinnamon buns!

Northern Lights & Stargazing by bus

The mesmerising Northern Lights is sight that will not be forgotten. It's simple; nothing says “Icelandic Winter” like the idea of hunting the Aurora Borealis. 

Northern Lights Cruise & Aurora Exhibition

Northern Lights Cruise including flexible Aurora Exhibition ticket - the perfect combination.

Northern Lights Cruise & FlyOver Iceland

Enjoy a 2 hr. Northern Lights Cruise from Reykjavík and a FlyOver Iceland experience in one package!

Northern Lights Mystery by bus

This Northern lights tour takes you out of Reykjavik city to the best places to see Northern lights swirling across the night sky in their fantastic shapes and colours.

Northern Lights Photography by bus

Enjoy a beautiful evening capturing the Northern Lights with a professional photographer guide. This is a small group bus tour of maximum 18 people!

FAQ: Northern Lights

The auroras are made up of a series of electrically discharged particles from the sun that enter earth's magnetic shield and create a light when mixed with gasses (such as nitrogen and oxygen) in our atmosphere. The particles come a long way through space before being drawn into earth’s polar regions, although it only takes a couple of days to travel the full 150 million kilometres!

Due to an unfavorable air quality forecast, all Blue Lagoon facilities are closed on April 9 and 10.  Read more .

NORTHERN LIGHTS CRUISE

Price from kr 12,990 approx € 86

STARTING POINT

Pickup available

They say that seeing the Northern Lights dance and weave across the Arctic sky is a spiritual experience never to be forgotten. And what better way to view this beautiful heavenly show than by sailing out to sea well away from the city´s bright lights.

Northern Lights Cruise from Reykjavik

SET SAILS TO THE ATLANTIC TO HUNT FOR THE NORTHERN LIGHTS There are few things more Icelandic than the Northern Lights dancing above the Arctic Ocean. Through the centuries our fishermen have needed to go out fishing all year round, even in the long, dark winters. Fortunately for them, when the winter sky is clear they have had the very welcome company of the Northern Lights that illuminate the sky, making it easier to fish.

We set sail from the Old Reykjavík harbor and begin our hunt out on the dark blue waters of Faxaflói Bay, leaving behind the bright city lights of Reykjavík. With our long experience in reading the Northern Lights forecast and a bit of luck, we will hopefully be successful in our search for the Auroras. We will experience firsthand how the lights constantly change in density, color, and movement with the gentle sway of the ocean beneath us. This is a thrilling and unique experience you will not soon forget.

Our open-top viewing decks provide the perfect platform for witnessing the dazzling spectacle while our heated indoor lounge is a great place to take a break from the Icelandic winter and warm up in between sightings.

We recommend you come wearing warm clothes, however, if you don’t have any, we can also provide warm overalls.

DETAILS ON THE NORTHERN LIGHTS CRUISE Price & Availability: See the booking window on the right. Children 0-7 years free & 7-15 50% Discount. Min: No minimum number of participants Age Limit: No age limit Pick up: Hotel pick-ups are not included in the price of the tour. We do offer a pickup service, operated by Elding. Feel free to make your way to our ticket and departure center, located at Ægisgarður 5 in Reykjavik’s old harbor. Bring with you: Dress according to the weather. In Iceland, it is always wise to dress in warm, waterproof clothes. Weather changes can be sudden so expect the unexpected. Bring a waterproof jacket and pants, headwear and gloves. Good outdoor shoes are recommended.* Duration: Approximately 2 hours. Tour Area: Our Northern Lights cruises usually take place on the southern part of Faxaflói Bay, just off Reykjavík. Each day we evaluate the weather reports to check the conditions for Northern Lights sightings.**

*If you don’t have warm clothing we can supply you with a very warm overall and additional gear, as well as having some sweaters to lend. **In the rare case where we are unsuccessful on our Northern Lights search we offer you the opportunity to join us on a different night free of charge.

WHAT'S INCLUDED: Experienced captain & guide Elding boat Open-top viewing decks & heated indoor lounge Warm overalls in case of cold weather If we do not see the Northern Lights then you get another tour for free

Elding Ticket Center

Faxaflói bay, what’s included.

• Access to Visitor Centre
• Multimedia show 
• Use of warm overalls 
• Excellent guidance 
• Onboard WiFi

What do I need to bring

• Sturdy footwear
• Warm clothing (thermals, hat, scarf and gloves)
• Tripod for better camera stability (if taking photographs)

Friendly cancellation & refund policy

Full refund if cancelled due to weather. Cancellation fee can be witheld if cancelled with short notice.

• 1 day notice: 100% charge

Check availability

Date of travel, we accept these major credit cards..

• No booking fees or any hidden cost.
• Instant booking directly from supplier.
• Best price guarantee!

Why book with us?

Northern Lights Boat Cruise from Reykjavik

• Drinks and snacks are available for purchase
• Spacious observation decks
• Panoramic views
• Professional guides
• All Fees and Taxes
• Restroom on board
• WiFi on board
• Old Harbour House | Food, Drinks & Tours, Ægisgarður 2, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland We are located at the Reykjavík Old Harbour close to the city's center. It is the main port of departure for whale watching and northern lights tours. *Please arrive at the meeting point 30 MINUTES BEFORE DEPARTURE.
• Infants must sit on laps
• Service animals allowed
• Near public transportation
• Stroller accessible
• Transportation is wheelchair accessible
• Wheelchair accessible
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Most travelers can participate
• This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
• This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 75 travelers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• Harpa Reykjavik Concert Hall and Conference Centre

Similar experiences

• You'll start at Old Harbour House | Food, Drinks & Tours Ægisgarður 2, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland We are located at the Reykjavík Old Harbour close to the city's center. It is the main port of departure for whale watching and northern lights tours. *Please arrive at the meeting point 30 MINUTES BEFORE DEPARTURE. See address & details
• Pass by Faxaflói Reykjavik Harpa Reykjavik Concert Hall and Conference Centre
• You'll return to the starting point

• Din S 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great! Given the number of people that attended, there's a lack of reviews. Seriously great energy from the crew. They have the other operators in communication to help increase chances of seeing whales. Didnt even have to keave the harbour before we started seeing whales, there were a handful of humpbacks which according to the guide was out of character fornthis oeriod of the year, they're normally further out. Boat was smooth and comfortable. Onboard bar and hot drinks at additional cost. It was great fun and I'd definitely go again. Only minor gripe the meetup point wasn't 100% clear on maps (turned out to be inside the pub). Read more Written April 13, 2024
• Ellesor826 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Whales Beautiful old yacht converted into a whale watching expedition in the waters off Reykjavik. Dress warmly. It gets mighty windy and cccccold when you’re out and about and spotting the whales. Great experience and the crew was terrific at pointing out the whereabouts of the whales. Well done. Read more Written April 10, 2024
• Charlotte H 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Nice yacht,no Whale sightings but that’s nature! After checking in at The Old Harbour house pub we made our way to the yacht which was roomy,warm and not overcrowded.The crew looked after us all well throughout the trip and throughly engaged with us throughout the Whale watching process.The weather was not on are side and with nature like the northern lights is hit and miss,some people were sea sick due to the rough waves and maybe we should had turned back sooner but the crew were determined for us to see whales but it was not the case. Read more Written April 5, 2024
• alexxphoenix 0 contributions 2.0 of 5 bubbles I wish I had booked with another tour I'm going to be "that guy" but I had a really mixed time with this tour. The boat was nice, we did see some lights (which of course is not under the tour people's control) but everything else was terrible. Several tours were leaving the marina at the same time and it was beyond confusing. The check in for this was not at a staffed office but at a self-serve kiosk in a pub. Our confirmation number to print out tickets did not work. The guy working at the restaurant tried to help to no avail. The map to find the boat completely on your own was not helpful. It was dark and freezing out and we ran around to every boat that people were getting on to ask if this was our cruise and they all said no. My husband finally found it. It turns out that our boat was BEHIND another boat hiding with its lights off. Other boats had lights, staff, ramps to walk on. OUR boat was almost completely dark, and you had to jump off the pier onto a small shelf that was below the water to get on the boat. Once on the boat, there were also no staff around besides the guys serving drinks at the bar. There were of course people driving the boat and cracking bad jokes on the intercom, but no one in view to help in general. An extremely drunk passenger was both amusing and horrifying staggering around making an absolute fool of himself. No staff was around to help with the obnoxious man. No staff was around to perhaps tell the drunk man he was too drunk to get on the tour in the first place. The boat had several levels but it was extremely packed and hard to move around. It didn't help that most of the lights were off to help us keep our night vision. Perhaps they could have turned off the lights AFTER we left the marina? I never saw any life preservers, but there were some stacks of blankets to use if you went out on deck. No one told us about the blankets, but we found them because we just happened to sit next to them. It was all very "Lord of the Flies" feeling, and really an unpleasant experience all the way around. I wish we had booked with another tour. Read more Written March 30, 2024
• emmarI4515XL 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Excellent Excellent trip we managed to see the northern lights on the Amelia rose, excellent boat excellent captain Oscar and nice calm water Read more Written March 25, 2024
• Adrian B 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Excellent service Although this trip was cancelled due to unfavourable weather, the company was excellent with their communication and we received a refund the same day. We had other trips cancelled or amended and we are still waiting for a refund and communication has been poor. Read more Written March 22, 2024
• deboraha394 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles We saw the Northern Lights! The cruise was good, just motored out a little way out of the harbour and saw the Northern Lights almost straight away. Stayed out for a couple of hours. Read more Written March 8, 2024
• 415hollyw 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Great fun seeing the northern lights Fun way of seeing the northern lights, there must have been only around 10 of us on our tour. We saw them the 1st night. Lots of bar option, hot & cold, soft and alcoholic. We had hot chocolates to warm ourselves up. We sat outside at the front of the boat the entire time (it was freezing even tho we dressed very warmly, so dress warmer than you think you’ll need). It also helps with sickness. Would definitely recommend, but probably wouldn’t personally do it again as the boat rocked a little (obviously) so the pictures didn’t come out as clear as I’d have liked! Read more Written January 31, 2024
• janicesmith63 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Stunning trip Went whale watching on amelia rose yaught on my birthday and had an amazing time. Saw humpback whales, seals and a dolphin. Staff very informative and friendly. Boat well equipped and comfortable. Not overcrowded like some other tours. Read more Written January 28, 2024
• DougW907 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles A nice way to spend the daylight hours This whale watching trip on the "Amelia Rose" on a not too cold, but grey afternoon was a nice way to spend the daylight hours, or rather just offshore, in Reykjavik. The booking in and boarding of this attractive motor yacht was very efficient. It is not too large, taking about 125 passengers who can be accommodated on three levels and after finding a spot to your satisfaction it was then quite easy to move around the yacht when going outside to the three main viewing areas. As I have said, the day was not too cold but at times there was quite a stiff, chilly wind. We went out maybe a couple of miles into the Atlantic and were kept well informed over the speaker system as the crew search for locations where whales may be found. The skipper and his crew worked hard to find the creatures and I think that we were relatively successful, seeing several spouts of water blown from whales before diving and then managing to catch about 4 different tails as they broke the surface. There were also a couple of groups of porpoises that passed by as we cruised on our quest. All in all, maybe we were unlucky not to see more, but it was November and past the time the these mammals are more numerous in those waters so we probably in reality did quite well. I thought that the yacht and its facilities were excellent and the crew was very professional and worked very hard trying to find whales for their passengers to see Read more Written January 21, 2024
• GGBS98 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Great way to see the lights I enjoyed this tour, the host was very friendly, blankets were provided to keep warm in the cold December climate and we had chance to see the northern lights. Only issue was the cost of a Amaretto Hot chocolate, very strong however I felt the price was fairly high. Read more Written January 15, 2024
• seancR5423CQ 0 contributions 2.0 of 5 bubbles Overpriced for the experience we received I went on this trip in early November with one of my brothers, and unfortunately, we didn't get to see the Northern Lights. There should be more emphasis when advertising the trip to the public, highlighting the high chance that the lights won't be visible during the 2-hour boat ride. A round of complimentary drinks would have been appreciated while we sat in the boat for most of the journey because it was far too cold to stay outside, staring at a black, lightless sky. The tour operator offered a free boat tour to see the lights again on a later date. However, realistically, after such a frustrating experience with the likelihood of not seeing the lights again, most people won't return to the boat for a similar experience as the first time to be stuck in an endless loop. A partial refund should be offered on the original tour price instead. Overall, it was an overpriced disappointment, and I wouldn't recommend this tour to anyone. Read more Written January 7, 2024
• Ajds123 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing trip Had the best trip, we didn't see the light show we had hoped for but the trip itself is well worth it The boat is beautiful very cosy, had a bar and snacks and comfy places to chill out. The staff are amazing thanks for my birthday shot. We really had a lovely experience, worth a visit when in Iceland. Views from the boat are amazing. Wrap up warm. Read more Written December 27, 2023
• Y8401DVlizm 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Family trip to Iceland Well organised trip, didn't feel like you were on a boat it was so smooth. Friendly staff/guide. Didn't see the lights the first night but we were lucky enough to see them the second night when they rebooked us with no problem at all, it was a highlight of our trip. Thank you Read more Written December 11, 2023
• nes5y 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles We absolutely loved our night on board! Thankyou! 🤍🛥️🇮🇸x We absolutely loved our night on board! The staff were so friendly and welcoming! Thankyou very much for the special shout out to, for our 30th Wedding Anniversary! 🤍🍾🥂🇮🇸 🛥️ x Read more Written December 10, 2023

More to explore in Reykjavik

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

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Northern Lights Boat Cruise from Reykjavik provided by Iceland Discover

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Northern Lights Cruise Tour from Reykjavik

Watch the unique Northern Lights from a boat far from the bright city lights. Specially designed viewing decks provide the perfect platform for watching the dazzling display of Northern lights. Should you get cold, the heated indoor lounge is a great place to take a break and warm up in between sightings.

• Northern lights from the boat
• Reykjavik city skyline
• Dark blue yonder of Faxaflói bay
• Everything about Northern Lights
• Cruise from Reykjavik
• Northern Lights multimedia show
• Professional tour guide
• Tour guided in English
• Warm overalls
• Free WiFi on boat

Tour Itinerary

Watching the lights constantly change in intensity, color and movement in the vast starry space with the gentle lull of the ocean beneath is a thrilling, unique experience.  This Northern Lights Cruise takes you out sailing from Reykjavik's Old Harbour, where you'll get a chance to take in the magical Aurora display in the dark blue yonder of Faxaflói bay. Northern lights are best displayed under dark, clear skies. Our open-top viewing decks provide the perfect platform for witnessing the dazzling spectacle while our heated indoor lounge is a great place to take a break and warm up in between sightings.  A guide will meet you in the Whale Watching Centre, which is facilitated on board an old fishing vessel permanently placed by the pier. At night it takes on a magical form with a multimedia northern lights show. The 10-minute show includes images, time-lapse footage of the lights while explaining the science behind the northern lights. Our expert guide will be at hand to answer your questions while you enjoy Mother Nature’s light show and starry skies wrapped up in one of our warm overalls.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much does a trip to see the Northern Lights cost? It doesn’t cost anything to see the northern lights. However, knowing the best spots to see the aurora borealis when they are visible takes knowledge of Iceland, which our expert guides have acquired over time. Additionally, tours like our Northern Lights Mystery tour, allows you to focus on capturing the best photo of the northern lights. At the same time, we do all of the driving and share the science behind the mysterious lights that appear in the sky.

2. Where can I see Northern Lights in 2020? Northern lights season in Iceland is from late August until late April. The darker and brighter the skies, the better for seeing the aurora borealis. With that in mind, February, March, October, and November 2020 are your best bet to see northern lights in Iceland this winter.

3. Do the Northern Lights happen every night? You need to have a clear dark night to see the aurora borealis, and so, it’s not guaranteed you will see them every night.

4. Where are the Northern Lights located? You can see the northern lights in Iceland, Alaska, Canada, Norway, and other places in the world. It is important to keep in mind that the polar latitudes have the best view of the northern lights. Anywhere above or north of the magnetic 55º with low light pollution is a good place to catch the lights. The 55th parallel north runs through northern parts of Europe, Asia, and North America.

5. How long do the Northern Lights last? Northern lights season (the time when they are most likely to be visible) lasts from late August to late April in Iceland. As for how long they last, when they appear in the night sky can vary significantly from just a few minutes up to hours at a time. During those few minutes to hours, the lights can also vary in intensity.

6. Where is the best chance to see Northern Lights? Outside of the city lights, with a bright dark sky.

7. Do Northern Lights look white? The aurora borealis can appear in white-gray color even the most common color is green.

8. How do I plan a trip to the Northern Lights? You can easily book a Northern Lights tour with us, where we take you to the best spot out of Reykjavík to watch the aurora borealis.

9. What is the best month to see Northern Lights in Iceland? The best months are February, March, October, and November, but the northern lights last from late August until April.

10. How do I take pictures of the Northern Lights with my mobile phone? You’ll need two things to make sure you capture the northern lights perfectly: a camera (even your smartphone will do) and a tripod. Neither your camera nor your tripod need be top of the line. You need to know how to get the most out of them. If you’re using your smartphone, these tips will help you get a great shot of the lights. If you’re using a regular camera you’ll need to keep these things in mind: Make sure your camera has a manual setting. Set both your camera and lens to manual mode so that you can manually change the aperture and focus. A wide-angle lens is preferable but not necessary. Having a wide-angle lens is a plus as it will allow you to capture the full scope and grandeur of the lights. Turn OFF your flash. Turn off image stabilization. Use a remote, self-timer, or an app to release the shutter remotely. Because you will be using a long exposure, even the slight movement caused by pressing the shutter can blur your image. And then use these simple settings to get started photographing the northern lights: Set the lens’ focus to infinity. Because the lights are so far away, you’ll want the camera to be focused on the furthest possible point. This can be a challenge in the dark, so it’s best to do this before it gets dark out.  Using the manual mode on your lens, focus to infinity. If need be, use tape or a marker (brightly colored to show up in the dark) to mark the setting. If you end up having to do this at night, pick the furthest light source around (you can use a flashlight for this too) and focus on it.  Be careful not to change the focus setting while waiting for the lights. As for metering, different cameras work best using different modes. For Nikon, you’ll want to set it to a matrix or center-weighted average metering, and for Canons use evaluative metering. Using manual mode, set the lens aperture or f-stop as wide as possible, that is the lowest f-number that your lens can go. Set your exposure according to the movement of the lights. For particularly active lights, 5-10 seconds will do, but for more subtle and/or slow-moving lights, you can try 20-25 seconds. Your ISO setting will depend on the intensity of the lights. If the lights are quite bright, start with ISO 800 and go up from there should the lights be dimmer or begin at ISO 1600 if they are dim and go down from there. In order to capture the colors of the lights as accurately as possible, custom set your white balance to Kelvin 3,000 or so and adjust accordingly.

11. Why do the Northern Lights happen? The Northern Lights, also known as aurora borealis, are caused by solar activity, including solar wind, solar flares, and coronal mass ejections (CME). These are all forms of electrically charged particles ejected by the sun. It takes a solar flare about 8 minutes to travel from the sun to the Earth and collide with gaseous particles in the Earth’s atmosphere. Due to variations in the Earth’s magnetic field and the dark winters at the north and south poles, the lights are more visible near the poles than anywhere else in the world.

Find more FAQ about the Northern Lights here .

Please note

• This Northern Lights Cruise departs from Ægisgarður pier in the Old Harbour in downtown Reykjavik, where the ticket office of Elding Adventure at Sea is located.
• Passengers who do not opt for pick-up from hotel or guest house, are requested to arrive at the departure point at least 15 minutes prior to departure time
• In the unlikely event that no Northern Lights are seen during your tour, you will receive a complimentary ticket to join the tour another time for free

This tour is operated by our partners

• This tour may be canceled due to weather and conditions on the sea
• Restrooms available

Pickup points

Not booked your hotel yet? Hotel not listed ? Staying with a friend/family?

Don't worry, you can give us that information when you add this item to your cart.

Pickup Info

Please present your electronic travel voucher/ticket at the time of tour departure. Pick up and drop off Pick up from hotels, guesthouses and designated bus stops starts 30 minutes before the tour departure time stated on your voucher.

Need assistance? Call:  +3545401313 or e-mail: [email protected]

Check availability

Date of travel, we accept these major credit cards..

• No booking fees or any hidden cost.
• Instant booking directly from supplier.
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Why book with us?

• +354-559-7500
•  [email protected]

Reykjavik Northern Lights Cruise

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Availability

September – April

1.5-2.5 Hours

At additional cost

Minimum Age

ISK 12.990

Tour Highlights:

• The Northern Lights
• Visitor Centre
• The Northern Lights by Boat tour
• Access to Visitor Centre
• Use of warm overalls
• Excellent live guidance
• Assistance with photography
• Pictures taken by crew (if any)
• Free WiFi onboard
• Northern Lights guarantee (or try again for free)
• How To Get There

On this thrilling winter cruise, search for Aurora Borealis away from the city lights. Northern Lights are best displayed under dark, clear skies. You can find these conditions from September until the end of April in Reykjavík. Watching the lights constantly change in intensity, color, and movement in the vast starry space with the gentle lull of the ocean beneath is a thrilling, unique experience.

5% discount with our “ICELAND5” promo code! The code is valid until December 31st for tours departing from March 2024 to December 2024! 

Hunting the auroras by boat gives you more comfort as we have heated inside areas, an onboard café, and an excellent 360° viewing platform for panoramic views. Our expert aurora guides help you enjoy the lights and cruise to the fullest by giving you information about the auroras and answering any questions you may have. They even take pictures on tour, which you can request by email when you get back home! You can borrow one of our overalls to keep you warm; just remember to bring a hat and gloves.

Please meet us at the Elding office no later than 20 minutes before departure,   by the Old Harbour in downtown Reykjavík, where you will exchange your pre-paid voucher for boarding tickets. Our expert guide will then greet you in our Visitor Centre , which is facilitated on board an old fishing vessel permanently placed by the pier. We will take you out into the dark blue yonder of Faxaflói bay in search of the mystical phenomenon that is the auroras, leaving behind the bright city lights of the northernmost capital in the world, Reykjavík. 

If you add a pick-up option, please be ready at a designated bus stop 45 minutes before departure!

Northern Lights guarantee

As the northern lights are a natural phenomenon, we cannot guarantee that we will see them, but we are professional aurora hunters with years of experience searching for the lights around Reykjavík. We need solar activity, clear skies, and darkness for an extraordinary aurora pursuit. Many other tour operators will cancel their tours if the forecast is not in their favor – well, we don’t! We know that you don’t have many days to search for the lights and that the weather can change in minutes, anywhere from a full cloud forecast to clear skies.

We want to maximize your chance the best we can, so WE WILL ALWAYS GIVE IT A GO! Our search area is close to shores and around small islands, far enough away from city lights, and therefore optimal for smooth and comfortable sailing, but the weather is a significant factor for the Northern Lights cruises, and we may have to cancel the tour.

If the lights fail to make an appearance, we do not refund the tour price but instead offer you to try another day again . You are free to go as many times as needed (within two years) to catch the show – at no extra cost!

Frequently Asked Questions

Reservations can be canceled 24 hours prior to departure without penalty. Cancellations received less than 24 hours prior to departure are non-refundable.

Cancellations must be submitted in writing to  [email protected] .

Please be mindful of possible time zone differences. Iceland is in the GMT time zone and cancellations must be submitted at least 24 hours before departure in Icelandic local time (GMT).

If you do need to cancel your tour, we recommend that you contact us as soon as possible. 

Please meet us at the Elding office no later than 20 minutes before departure,   by the Old Harbour in downtown Reykjavík, where you will exchange your pre-paid voucher for boarding tickets.

Ægisgarður 5c, 101 Reykjavík, Iceland

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10 Best Places To See The Northern Lights In Reykjavik (And Nearby!)

July 16, 2021 //  by  Iceland Trippers //   Leave a Comment

Are you wondering how to see the Northern Lights in Reykjavik on your next trip to Iceland ? Whether you’re determined to chase the lights on your own or would prefer an experienced tour guide leading you in the right direction, we’ve got you covered. 

The Northern Lights dance through the sky from roughly September to April. Although you have the best chance of spotting the lights during these months, they are notoriously elusive and unpredictable. However, we’re here to provide you with the information you need to have the best shot at successfully witnessing this natural phenomenon. 

Planning your trip to Reykjavik last minute?

Make sure to book ahead! Hotels and tours often sell out the closer you get to your trip. Here are our top picks for Reykjavik!

Top Experiences And Tours In Reykjavik:

• Golden Circle Full-Day Tour From Reykjavik (Likely To Sell Out!)
• Northern Lights Bus Tour (Go with a local guide)
• Whale Watching & Marine Life Cruise (Often sells out!)
• Keflavik > Reykjavik Bus Airport Transfer  (Skip the line!)
• South Of Iceland Full Day Trip   (Our pick!)

Top Hotels In Reykjavik:

• 201 Hotel (Highly rated!)
• Reykjavik Residence Apartment Hotel (Includes a kitchen)
• Center Hotels Plaza (Central location in Old Town)
• R13-A Townhouse Hotel (Great for families!)

Long, dark winter days, clear skies, minimal to no light pollution, and a little bit of luck are necessary ingredients for a successful Northern Lights hunt. Despite the light pollution found in Reykjavik, there are still quite a few locations in the city or nearby that will block out the light just enough to give you a spectacular Northern Lights show. 

Many of the locations on this list pair the lights with some of Iceland’s most impressive natural landscapes and tourist hotspots for a double whammy that will create a night you won’t soon forget. 

Forecasts are constantly changing so patience is key as you wait for the aurora. We highly suggest tracking the aurora strength (unless you’re on a Northern Lights tour from Reykjavik in which case your tour guide will do that for you).

There’s no exact formula for viewing the lights, but with our help you might just have a chance at leaving this spectacular land of fire and ice with memories of the swirling green lights dancing in your head. Don’t forget to check out our Tips For Photographing The Northern Lights!

Get a FREE printable “Hidden Gems In Iceland” E-book by joining our private  Iceland Facebook Group  and share your photos and ask for tips and tricks.

Best Places To See The Northern Lights In Reykjavik

Blue lagoon.

If you’ve begun planning a trip to Iceland, you’ve likely heard of the Blue Lagoon . Thanks to its mineral-rich, geothermal seawater with healing properties, moss-covered lava rock surroundings, and top-quality amenities, the Blue Lagoon has become one of the most popular tourist stops in Iceland. It’s expensive and you’ll have to book a time slot well in advance due to the ever-increasing crowds, but it’s well worth a visit at least once. 

As you relax for hours in the warm water, you can grab a refreshing drink from the swim-up bar, apply a silica mud mask, and in the winter, if the conditions are right, you might even be fortunate enough to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights. The Blue Lagoon is situated in the town of Grindavik, however it’s far enough from any major light pollution that you’ll certainly have a shot at seeing the lights. 

The staff at the Blue Lagoon take extra measures to ensure visitors will see the elusive Northern Lights. In addition to tracking aurora activity in the winter, the Blue Lagoon will dim the lights at their facility on active aurora nights to better highlight the dancing lights overhead. 

It’s a remarkably peaceful experience soaking in the brilliant blue waters of the lagoon while watching a natural phenomenon as spectacular as the Northern Lights. For this reason, if you’re hoping to see the Northern Lights in Reykjavik, we highly suggest driving the 45 minutes out of town to the Blue Lagoon to enjoy two of the most stunning and memorable experiences you can have in Iceland at the same time. 

Grótta Lighthouse

The Grótta Lighthouse stands at the end of the Seltjarnarnes Peninsula in Reykjavik. Just a 5-minute drive (or roughly 1-hour walk) from the Reykjavik city center, Grótta gives you a taste of Iceland’s natural beauty with its black sand and rocky coastline. 

By day, this nature reserve is a fantastic spot for bird watching, and at night it has the potential to be the best place to see the Northern Lights in Reykjavik. As you head towards the lighthouse, you’ll find the Kvika foot bath, a small, circular pool of warm water surrounded by smoother rock. Though this only succeeds in keeping half of your body warm, it’s an ideal spot to sit and wait along the coast for the Northern Lights to appear. 

If you’re lucky enough to be witness to the Northern Lights, try to set up your camera in a way that includes the Grótta Lighthouse in the picture. The brilliant green lights swirling around or near the lighthouse make for a spectacular image. 

The lighthouse’s proximity to the city center makes it a popular location for both locals and tourists alike, but it’s well worth bracing whatever crowds there may be to experience the Northern Lights in this setting. 

Thingvellir

Thingvellir National Park is one of three major stops on the Golden Circle , Iceland’s most famous tourist route. Located just 45 minutes from Reykjavik, this beautiful national park is a natural beauty that holds an immense amount of history for the country. 

It was here in 930AD that Iceland’s first parliament was formed. It’s also the site of a rift valley where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. Over time, the gap between the plates has widened creating the Silfra fissure, an ideal snorkeling spot with crystal clear water and excellent visibility. 

The national park is also home to a historic church and a cascading waterfall. If you’re hoping to see the Northern Lights in Reykjavik, Thingvellir just happens to be one of the best places to spot the dancing lights within easy reach of the city. 

Thingvellir is a popular spot for tour bus guides to end up on their Northern Lights tours. The vast, beautiful lava rock-filled landscape of the park coupled with the dark skies overheard make it a magical place to witness this jaw-dropping natural phenomenon.

Raufarhólshellir Lava Tunnel

Hidden in the lava fields of Hellisheiði, you’ll find a prime example of the remarkable power that nature wields. Raufarhólshellir is a lava tube, a cave carved by the hot magma from a volcanic eruption over 5,000 years ago. 

On the one-hour evening tour, you’ll be led by a guide through 350 meters of the tunnel. Lights inside the cave will allow a better look at the cave walls and impressive structure. At points throughout the tour, you’ll find yourself gazing up at the night sky through naturally carved circular holes in the roof of the tunnel. 

For those of you hoping to spot the aurora in Reykjavik during your vacation, you’ll find that the opening of this lava tunnel is the perfect place to seek out the lights. A quick 30-minute drive will take you from downtown Reykjavik to this fascinating natural wonder.

When you’re done with your tour you don’t even have to move your car from the parking lot. Just wander the vicinity around the cave and wait for the show to begin!

Lake Kleifarvatn

What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you think of a lake? Is it nearby active volcanoes, underwater hot springs, and black sand beaches? Well, it should be if you’re thinking of Lake Kleifarvatn. 

Located in a highly volcanic region on the Reykjanes Peninsula, Kleifarvatn, one of the largest lakes in South Iceland, is a beauty to behold. Like Thingvellir National Park, the lake finds itself straddling the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. As a result, earthquake activity is constant. In fact, a particularly notable earthquake in 2000 partially (and temporarily) drained the lake. 

Whether you’re snorkeling to get a closer look at the underwater hot springs or are wandering the lake’s perimeter admiring the natural beauty, Lake Kleifarvatn is worth a stop on your adventures. 

If you’re looking for the best place to see the Northern Lights in Reykjavik, the lake just so happens to be optimal for Northern Lights viewing and is only 30 minutes from the capital. 

There are tales about a Loch Ness-like monster residing in the depths of the lake. If you’re willing to share the views with this creature, the dark skies and lack of people make the lake a peaceful spot to hopefully catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights. 

Lake Hvaleyrarvatn

You don’t have to travel far to leave the city behind for the tranquil quiet of nature. If you’re hoping to find the Northern Lights in Reykjavik, we suggest taking a 20-minute drive over to the town of Hafnarfjörður where you’ll find the small but picturesque Lake Hvaleyrarvatn. 

Head to Lake Hvaleyrarvatn earlier in the day for a stroll along the 2km walking path. The lake is surrounded by trees, and though much of the plant life doesn’t survive the winter, the natural landscape is still beautiful.

As night falls, bundle up and pick a comfortable spot by the lake to enjoy the Northern Lights. If you’re lucky you might even catch a glimpse of the dancing waves of green reflected in the water. 

Klambratún Park 

Thanks to its location in the heart of the city, Klambratún Park is one of the most convenient locations on our list for viewing the aurora in Reykjavik. Locals love this park thanks to its ample green space and its sports courts and frisbee golf course (a popular game among Icelanders).

Everyone in your family can enjoy views of the famous Hallgrímskirkja church which is easily visible from the park. When everyone’s tired of running around and playing games you can pick a spot in the wide-open grass area and wait for the Northern Lights. 

It might seem strange that we’ve chosen a location in the heart of the city as one of the best places to view the Northern Lights in Reykjavik. After all, with so many buildings nearby you’d expect there to be significant light pollution. 

What makes Klambratún Park an ideal location however is the line of trees that surround the park. The trees help block out the light pollution making the Northern Lights more visible. While the skies may be darker and the Northern Lights more vibrant in other locations we’ve included on this list, it’s a solid location nonetheless and the convenience of being right in the city can’t be beat. 

Öskjuhulíð, a forested hill in the capital city, is one of the best places to catch the Northern Lights in Reykjavik. If you’re staying in Reykjavik you won’t have to venture far to witness the beauty of the aurora. In fact, it’s only about 5 minutes from the heart of downtown. 

Öskjuhilíð is both a historic location and an outdoor recreation area frequented by locals. Once serving as a defense post for the British army in World War II, remnants of former army barracks and shelters remain as a reminder of what the area once was. Since the 1950s, when trees were planted on the hill, the area has come to life with walking/running paths (that lead to Nathólsvík beach among other places) and rabbits darting to and fro. 

Perlan, the building sitting on hot water tanks at the top of the hill, now features a rotating restaurant with 360-degree views of the city and a handful of exhibitions, both of which make it a prominent tourist attraction in Reykjavik.

Like Klambratún Park, Öskjuhlíð is an ideal place to see the Northern Lights in Reykjavik because of the trees blocking out the majority of the nearby light pollution. It also has less light pollution to begin with due to the fact that it’s not smack in the middle of downtown. So prepare to witness this brilliant natural phenomenon from your own little spot on the hill. 

If you’re wondering how to see the Northern Lights in Reykjavik, you might consider ditching your plans downtown and opting for a 45-minute drive to the Reykjanes Peninsula instead. At the northern tip of the Peninsula, not far from the Keflavik International Airport, lies a small, charming fishing village called Garður. 

Along with a campground, swimming pool/hot tubs, and a museum, Garður is home to two historic lighthouses that were both incredibly important to the town’s fishing industry. The first was built in 1897 and stood low enough to avoid the mist, while the second and larger of the two was built in 1944. 

Along the cliffs on the shores of this coastal village are large populations of nesting seabirds, making it a perfect spot for bird-watching aficionados. You also might catch a glimpse of a seal swimming nearby or passing dolphins in the distance. 

When it comes time to view the Northern Lights, there’s no better place to be than by the Garðskagi lighthouses. Whether you’re strolling the beach and watching the Northern Lights swirling above the lighthouses or are enjoying the most spectacular views from the 360-degree lookout platform at the top of the newer lighthouse, you’re in for an experience you won’t soon forget.

If you’re hoping to view the aurora in Reykjavik but are willing to venture just over an hour outside of the city for even better viewing, then Hella might just be the spot for you. Hella is located on Iceland’s Ring Road just 30 minutes from the larger town of Selfoss, making it a perfect stop along the way to your other Icelandic adventures. 

Hella is a small town on the South Coast that provides you with basics such as a grocery store, restaurants, and a swimming pool/hot tubs (a staple found in nearly every Icelandic town). It’s nothing fancy, but its proximity to other sites of interest including Golden Circle stops and the spectacular Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls, as well as the limited light pollution make it a convenient location. 

If you happen to be spending the night in Hella and are anxious to see the Northern Lights, the Hotel Rangá has your name written all over it. Thanks to its remote location by the river with a stargazing balcony perfect for viewing the Northern Lights, you might just have a shot at witnessing the impressive natural phenomenon. 

Because Hella is only an hour from Reykjavik you can easily stick around Hella to catch the Northern Lights and return to Reykjavik that same evening. 

Best Northern Lights Tours From Reykjavik

Northern lights bus tour from reykjavik (4 hours).

This bus tour is the most affordable and popular Northern Lights tour from Reykjavik on our list. This four-hour tour gives you the benefit of being guided by some of Iceland’s most knowledgable tour guides, adept at chasing the Northern Lights, while still leaving you the majority of the day to explore the natural beauty of Iceland on your own terms. 

Through a combination of meteorologist predictions and many years of first-hand experience seeking out the Northern Lights, the tour guides give you the best possible chance of seeing the lights during your trip.

Throughout this whole experience, the tour guides have your best interest at heart and will do their best to find dark sky areas for optimal aurora viewing. As a result, you could go on the same tour twice and end up at completely different locations. Oftentimes they’ll use their own cameras to take a shot of the night sky, as faint aurora activity usually shows up clearer on camera than to the naked eye. 

If you’re not able to see the lights on your particular tour (which inevitably will happen sometimes), you’re allowed to book another tour free of charge. In addition to hopefully seeing the spectacular Northern Lights, you’ll have the chance to visit the Aurora Museum in Reykjavik and find out more information on what causes this spectacular phenomenon as well as engage in interactive exhibitions. 

Book Here: Northern Lights Bus Tour From Reykjavik

Northern Lights Cruise From Reykjavik (2 hours)  

What better way to experience the Northern Lights in Reykjavik than by venturing out on the water on a Northern Lights cruise. Departing from Reykjavik Harbor, this tour takes you on a two-hour ride on the Elding II as you head to Faxaflói Bay to escape the city lights and seek out darker skies conducive to seeing the Northern Lights. 

To enhance your overall experience, the boat has a heated lounge you can enjoy while waiting for the lights to appear. Though warm overalls and blankets are provided to all passengers in an attempt to keep you warm, we highly suggest wearing your warmest clothes under the overalls to keep you as comfortable as possible in the crisp Iceland night air. 

If you’re desperately hoping to photograph the Northern Lights this may not be the best tour option for you, as the rocking boat makes capturing clear photographs particularly difficult. If however, you’re content just living in the moment, soaking in this unbelievable experience, and stashing it in your memory bank, then you’re sure to enjoy this wonderful cruise.

Book Here: Northern Lights Cruise From Reykjavik

Northern Lights And The Golden Circle (9 hours) 

Why not combine Iceland’s most famous road trip and tourist highlights with Northern Lights viewing? This 9-hour adventure , though more expensive than a basic Reykjavik Northern Lights tour, is one of the best ways to ensure you see some of the best that Iceland has to offer complete with facts and guidance from a knowledgeable tour guide. 

The Golden Circle is a heavily trafficked route through Iceland that includes Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss Waterfall, the Strokkur geyser, and Kerið crater. 

Thingvellir National Park is particularly noteworthy as the location of Iceland’s first parliament as well as a rift valley where the American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. Imagine being on two continents at once! From admiring the natural landscape to snorkeling in the clear, pristine water, there’s more than enough to keep you entertained at this UNESCO World Heritage site. 

The tour will continue with Gullfoss, the thundering 105 foot “golden” waterfall that often can be seen with a rainbow arching across its waters on a sunny day. If you’re hoping to see a geyser bursting through the earth you’re in luck because you’ll make a stop at the Strokkur geyser in the Haukadalur Valley that erupts every 6-10 minutes. There is a second geyser that bears the name Geysir, however this one is no longer active. 

Your Golden Circle tour will wrap up with Kerið crater, a magnificent volcanic caldera with a brilliant blue lake at the bottom. The caldera dazzles with streaks of red, yellow, and green cutting through the brown of the earth. You’ll want to take a moment to walk the perimeter of the crater for a view from all sides. 

Imagine seeing the Northern Lights on top of all that. And with a limited tour size that accommodates a maximum of 18 passengers giving you more one on one contact with the guide, you’re in for the experience of a lifetime. 

Book Here: Northern Lights And The Golden Circle

Secret Lagoon And Northern Lights Tour (6 hours)

This is the best Northern Lights tour from Reykjavik if you’re looking to have your whole evening planned out to perfection. Bathing in the warm waters of a lagoon, eating delicious, traditional Icelandic food, and watching the spectacular Northern Lights show all in one night…it doesn’t get any better than that. 

Though the Secret Lagoon lacks the grandeur of the famous Blue Lagoon, it’s a beautiful man-made lagoon fed by natural hot springs with minimal crowds. The Secret Lagoon also wears the badge of the oldest swimming pool in Iceland and has long been a local favorite. The perfect water temperature, pool noodles to float around on, steam rising from the water’s surface, and general relaxing environment make it a welcome stop on this 6-hour tour . 

Your peaceful soak in the lagoon will be followed up with a delicious dinner buffet at a family-owned restaurant where you can enjoy Icelandic staples such as lamb and fresh fish. You’ll be thankful for the fuel this meal provides as you set out to search for the Northern Lights with the help of your knowledgeable guide. 

Book Here: Secret Lagoon And Northern Lights Tour

We’re thrilled you’ve chosen to adventure out on an Icelandic winter night to seek out the spectacular Northern Lights. Though they can be elusive and difficult to spot, the reward when they finally come into view is exceptionally great. 

You don’t even have to venture out to remote parts of the island to enjoy this phenomenon. With a little planning, a short drive from the city lights, and an active aurora night, you’ll find yourself witnessing the magic of nature. If you have questions or comments as you go about deciding where to see the Northern Lights in Reykjavik, please let us know in the comments sections below. 

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Northern Lights Luxury Yacht Cruise from Reykjavik

Description

Hop aboard this luxury Northern Lights yacht cruise which departs from Reykjavik.

We start the tour from the old harbour in Reykjavik, passing the Harpa concert hall, the sculpture Sun Voyager and the famous Höfði house, on our way beyond the islands of Videy and Engey. 

When are far enough from the city lights and are clear from the light pollution from the city lights, we will slow down. From here our experienced crew will be on a constant lookout for the first signs of Northern Lights activity. Meanwhile, we enjoy the city lights in the distance, the view to the sky, constellations, maybe the Milky Way. From October 9th to December 8th, we also have the Imagine Peace Tower made by Yoko Ono in memory of John Lennon. The light tower is also lit up during around Christmas time and on New Year's Eve.

The Northern Lights (or Aurora Borealis) are by many considered one of the most beautiful natural phenomenons in the world. They are created as eruptions within the sun send out millions of tons of particles out to the sky. Some of these particles reach the Earth and collide with particles in our atmosphere, where they ignite and create the northern lights.

While waiting for the lights, we wrap up in blankets and enjoy drinks from the on-board bar or sit inside in the warm and cosy interior. 

You will be very comfortable aboard. Our yacht, Harpa, was renovated in 2019. With lovely interior and an on-board bar, saloon, lounge, a flybridge with 360 views, and a kids corner. The yacht is very stable, and we limit the number of passengers on board to make sure it is comfortable for everyone.

Escape the crowds and join Harpa Yachts in this small group tour with fewer passengers, relaxed atmosphere and personnel service.

Select dates to check availability.

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What to bring

Good to know.

Our crew follows the daily weather forecast and a decision is made every day around 4 p.m. - 5 p.m. if we will be able to operate the tour in the evening. All passengers, hotels and booking offices will be notified via email.

We recommend to dress in warm clothes and according to conditions.

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