Northern Lights and Stargazing Small-Group Tour with Local Guide
Traveler rating
4.8/5
Based on 314 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Northern Lights and Stargazing Small-Group Tour with Local Guide worth booking?
Northern Lights and Stargazing Small-Group Tour with Local Guide is a 3-hour experience in Reykjavik, Iceland, from $221 per person. It scores 79 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 4.8/5 rating across 314 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 79 / 100
- Rating
- 4.8/5 (314)
- Duration
- 3 hours
- From
- $221 per person
Northern Lights Hunt We pick you up and whisk you away from the city lights to where we predict the best sightings according to the cloud forecast. Our small tour group allows us to get off the beaten path and away from the crowds to enjoy the Northern Lights in serenity.* Stargazing with telescope While waiting for the lights we use our powerful stargazing telescope to explore crude details of the planets in our solar system and deep space phenomena lightyears away. We take photos of everyone under the lights, for free. Your guides We spend our winters chasing Northern Lights weather, and our summers chasing Paragliding weather. We know our Icelandic weather! We are local sky enthusiasts and our small and personal tours are designed to make you feel like a part of our team and a part of Iceland.
What you get
About this experience
Northern Lights Hunt We pick you up and whisk you away from the city lights to where we predict the best sightings according to the cloud forecast. Our small tour group allows us to get off the beaten path and away from the crowds to enjoy the Northern Lights in serenity.* Stargazing with telescope While waiting for the lights we use our powerful stargazing telescope to explore crude details of the planets in our solar system and deep space phenomena lightyears away. We take photos of everyone under the lights, for free. Your guides We spend our winters chasing Northern Lights weather, and our summers chasing Paragliding weather. We know our Icelandic weather! We are local sky enthusiasts and our small and personal tours are designed to make you feel like a part of our team and a part of Iceland.
What's included
Included
- Home made hot chocolate and treats (Icelandic pastry)
- Photos of you under the Northern Lights
- Guide to guest ratio 1:10
- 3-5-hour tour, depending on search conditions
- Stargazing telescope and guidance
- Unlimited re-try in case of non-sighting (within 2 years)
- Small-group (max 14 people) in a modified super jeep
- Professional, informative and friendly local guides
- Door-to-door pick up and drop-off at your accommodation in central Reykjavik
What you'll see and do
Perlan
Northern Lights exhibition center and look-out point. We may pass by there or stop briefly on the way out of the city for an extra look at how the clouds are moving.
Pass by without stopping
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 30 minutes before departure.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 14 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Happyworld Iceland
Know before you go
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- PICK UP TIMES: 1. Sept.-15. April: 9-9.30 pm
- At 6.30pm each day we make our Go/NoGo decision according to weather and message you to CONFIRM OR CANCEL through the Viator system. As we have no other way of contacting you please make sure you contact us directly if you do not receive ANY message from us, before you start waiting for your pick up. If the tour is cancelled due to weather you can either re-schedule or receive a full refund.
- If you do not see the Northern Lights on your tour, you may re-book free of charge (subject to availability). You must confirm via e-mail.
- If The Customer fails to show up at pickup: No refund.
- If we cancel the tour, for any reason at any time, The Customer is eligible for a 100% refund. This does not include tours that are free re-runs (such as after non-sightings Northern Lights tours).
- Under no circumstances is The Customer eligible for a refund in part or full for a tour that was performed.
- We travel in modified superjeeps – Because the Earth is not Flat. Prepare for an adventurous activity tour rather than luxury!
- It is recommended that you wear thick, warm and windproof layers. You will spend a lot of time outside in the cold Icelandic night. To enjoy the night sky at it's best it is important to be able to stay warm outside. You can jump back in the vehicle once in a while to catch up on warmth
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 314 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
7 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
6 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Photo opportunities
4 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Small groups
3 mentionsThe group size is repeatedly described as intimate rather than packed.
Traveler reviews
314 verified traveler reviews for Northern Lights and Stargazing Small-Group Tour with Local Guide. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
NLTour
Saever did a great job.He is very enthusiastic .
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for the kind words! 😄 We’re very happy to hear you had a great experience with Sævar. His enthusiasm really shines through, and we’re lucky to have him on the team! Thank you for joining us, and we hope to see you again in Iceland someday! 😇 The Happyworld team
via Tripadvisor
Do not recommend.
Terrible. Windy conditions with a lot of light pollution coming from passing vehicles. Guide did not plan the viewing spot well. It was so difficult to view the aurora when we were trying to stand still in the windy conditions and so many vehicles passing by us. Most companies would move to next location when it was not suitable (like cloudy sky or too windy) but the guide just stuck to one spot for the whole tour duration. The professional photos taken of us by the guide were also bad. Some photos had our faces looking blurry because of the unsteady tripod during the windy weather. I do not recommend this because it was also very expensive for the suboptimal experience.
Response from the operator: We are disappointed to see a second review describing what appears to be the same tour, posted by someone travelling together several months after the experience. We received no complaint from either guest at the time or afterwards. Had we been contacted, we would have investigated the matter properly and addressed any concerns. We have since reviewed our photographs and records from the entire season and have been unable to identify a tour matching the conditions described. Northern Lights tours depend entirely on cloud cover and weather. Our guides always try to choose quiet and sheltered locations, but when clear skies are limited, several companies may naturally end up in the same area. Moving during an active display can also mean missing the best part of the aurora. Wind and cold cannot always be avoided in Iceland, and strong wind may occasionally affect stargazing and individual photographs, which is why our guides take several images of each guest. The similarity of these two reviews, their timing months after the tour while the tours is not operated due to having 24 hour daylight, and the fact that no concerns were raised directly with us is troubling. Duplicate negative reviews about the same alleged experience can cause serious harm to a small family-run company and to the guides who work extremely hard to give guests the best possible experience in conditions that cannot be controlled.
via Tripadvisor
Do not recommend.
Terrible location planning. Bad photography skills. Paid hefty sum for this subpar tour. Do not book with them. We were taken to a roadside with lot of vehicles passing by. Their beam lights were very distracting to our aurora viewing experience. The weather conditions were very very windy and chilly at night. It was so difficult to appreciate the aurora show when we couldn't stand still in the windy spot with light snow. They should have taken us to a stable spot with less wind. The reputable tour operators would not hesitate to move us to other better spots if the weather conditions turn bad or sky becomes cloudy. We were just stuck at one spot for the whole tour duration. We saw a few other vehicles briefly stopping by to check out the aurora but they quickly moved to other better spots whereas we were still stuck at one spot for the whole duration! The guide also offered to let us view the stars through their specialised telescope. But still, we couldn't appreciate the stargazing experience due to the winds. The professional photos taken of us by the guide were also subpar with too much red light reflection on our faces. Some of the photos looked blurry because of the wind which destabilized the guide's camera tripod. I think the guide is named Dxxx something.. But definitely not Þröstur which everyone was raving about. It could have been better if it is done by Þröstur.
Response from the operator: We were genuinely sad to read this review, as it does not reflect the way we operate our Northern Lights tours. The review was posted at least several months after the experience took place and does not include any information that would allow us to identify the booking. We have carefully reviewed all available photographs and records from the entire previous Northern Lights season, including the tours operated by the guide referred to in the review, and we could not find any tour or set of photographs matching the experience described. We also never received any complaint at the time of the tour or afterwards. Had we been contacted, we would of course have investigated the matter immediately and responded appropriately. It is therefore difficult for us to properly understand or address these claims several months later, particularly when we cannot identify the booking. Northern Lights tours are completely dependent on cloud cover and weather conditions. Our guides always try to find quiet and sheltered locations away from traffic and other tour groups. However, when only a limited area has clear skies, most experienced guides will naturally be searching within the same area. This can result in certain roads and viewing locations becoming temporarily busier than usual. Sometimes we also need to stop quickly when the Northern Lights appear, even if the location is not ideal. A strong display may only last for a few minutes, and continuing to drive in search of another location can mean missing the best part of the show. Once the display becomes weaker, or when better options become available, we normally move on. The fact that other tour vehicles briefly stopped at the same location would also suggest that this was one of the clearer areas available that evening. It is common practice among Northern Lights guides that, when one group is already using a location, other vehicles may check the conditions and then continue elsewhere rather than overcrowding the same spot. Regarding the cold and wind, we completely understand that Icelandic winter conditions can be uncomfortable. We send detailed clothing recommendations before every tour for exactly this reason. Whenever possible, we choose sheltered locations, but cloud cover often determines where we need to be, and unfortunately wind and cold cannot always be avoided. The same applies to stargazing. We bring a specialised telescope and offer the experience whenever conditions allow, but strong wind, clouds and snowfall can naturally affect how much we are able to show. Photography in darkness and strong wind can also be challenging. Our guides normally take several photographs of each guest to give the best possible chance of getting a good result. Occasionally, individual photographs may be affected by movement, wind, nearby lights or moisture in the air, which is exactly why we take multiple images. We also found it unusual that the guide’s name could not be remembered, as the email containing the photographs includes the guide’s name. We only had one guide last season whose name began with D, Dominik. He has worked with us for several years, was trained directly by Þröstur, and until these recent reviews had consistently received excellent feedback. Þröstur is our lead guide and naturally has the largest number of reviews, as he has been guiding for many years and personally operates most of our tours. However, every guide working for Happyworld is trained by him and follows the same approach to safety, weather planning, photography and guest experience. We are sorry that the experience described did not meet expectations. At the same time, after reviewing our photographs and records from the entire season, and having received no complaint at the time, we have been unable to verify a tour matching the events described in this review.
via Viator
The best Northern Lights tour in Iceland
Simply the best tour we did in Iceland. Þröstur’s knowledge, passion and personality are second to none, building excitement and bringing boundless energy and expertise to the hunt for the lights! Add the star-gazing and to die for hot chocolate and what else could you ever need! The ONLY choice when picking a Northern Lights tour! Thank you Þröstur
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for the amazing review. That really means a lot to hear! I’m very happy you enjoyed the evening. The Northern Lights are always the main event, but sharing the night sky, the stargazing, and a warm cup of hot chocolate under the stars is a big part of what makes these tours special for us. Thank you again for the kind words and for trusting us with one of your nights in Iceland. It was a real pleasure having you on the tour! ;-D
via Viator
Amazing, could not recommend more
Top notch experience. The group is small (capped at around 10 I believe) so it’s really intimate. Þröstur was our guide and he was so engaging and knowledgeable. Also just an incredibly kind and genuine person who really cared about the group having a great visit to Iceland overall, not just on the tour. We were very fortunate with clear skies and two amazing rounds of the aurora, and while not seeing them would of course have been disappointing, I would still have nothing but positive things to say about the experience. And they offer re-tries if you don’t see the lights. They also wait til much later in the day than other companies to evaluate viewing conditions and decide whether to go/no-go for the evening, which is great. They’re not looking to make a quick buck and don’t want to waste anyone’s time (themselves included). The stargazing was a fascinating enhancement, and the professional photos taken of the group were incredible. This tour is pricey relative to other Northern Lights options but if it’s within your budget, this is the company to use (I’m sure their other non Northern Lights tours are also fantastic). The intimate group size and caliber of guide alone make it worthwhile- a truly well curated and premium experience.
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for such a thoughtful and detailed review. It really means a lot to read! I’m very happy to hear that you enjoyed the small group atmosphere. Keeping the groups small is very intentional for us. It allows us to spend more time with everyone, answer questions, and make the evening feel more personal rather than rushed. You were also very lucky with the skies that night. Getting two strong rounds of aurora is never something we take for granted. I’m glad the stargazing and the photos added to the experience as well. Nights under clear Icelandic skies are something special in our opinion ;-D We do try to wait as long as possible before deciding, because the weather here can change quickly and we want to give guests the best possible chance without sending people out for cloud gazing. It was a real pleasure having you on the tour. Thank you again for the recommendation and for spending the evening with us! :-D
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 3 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $221 to $380
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 110
- Verdict
- Strongly Recommended
Why this scores 79
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Northern Lights and Stargazing Small-Group Tour with Local Guide: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Reykjavik.
How much does Northern Lights and Stargazing Small-Group Tour with Local Guide cost?
+
Prices start at $221 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Reykjavik usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Northern Lights and Stargazing Small-Group Tour with Local Guide take?
+
Plan for about 3 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Reykjavik is not rushed.
Is Northern Lights and Stargazing Small-Group Tour with Local Guide worth it?
+
It holds an Outty Ranking of 79 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.8/5 across 314 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Reykjavik, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Northern Lights and Stargazing Small-Group Tour with Local Guide?
+
Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Northern Lights and Stargazing Small-Group Tour with Local Guide suitable for kids and families?
+
Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 3-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Northern Lights and Stargazing Small-Group Tour with Local Guide?
+
Around 110 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Reykjavik can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
+
Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Reykjavik and add a light layer if any part of the 3-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Northern Lights and Stargazing Small-Group Tour with Local Guide start and how do I get there?
+
The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Reykjavik within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Reykjavik?
+
On Outty we rank every Reykjavik experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Reykjavik Food Walk - Local Foodie Adventure in Iceland, Silfra Snorkeling Between Continents Photos Included- Self Drive, Small-Group Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon with Ticket & Kerid Crater. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Reykjavik?
+
Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Reykjavik?
+
Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
+
Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Northern Lights and Stargazing Small-Group Tour with Local Guide?
+
Included: Home made hot chocolate and treats (Icelandic pastry); Photos of you under the Northern Lights; Guide to guest ratio 1:10; 3-5-hour tour, depending on search conditions; and Stargazing telescope and guidance. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Northern Lights and Stargazing Small-Group Tour with Local Guide include hotel pickup?
+
Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 56 listed pickup locations in and around Reykjavik. Be ready about 30 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.
What languages is Northern Lights and Stargazing Small-Group Tour with Local Guide offered in?
+
It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Northern Lights and Stargazing Small-Group Tour with Local Guide?
+
Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
What happens to Northern Lights and Stargazing Small-Group Tour with Local Guide if the weather is bad?
+
This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Northern Lights and Stargazing Small-Group Tour with Local Guide?
+
Across 314 reviews averaging 4.8 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, photo opportunities. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Ready to lock in your spot?
Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Northern Lights and Stargazing Small-Group Tour with Local Guide.
Pick your date
