Northern Lights Minibus Tour with Free Photos & Hot Chocolate

If you’re planning a trip to Iceland, chasing the aurora borealis is almost a must-do. This Northern Lights Minibus Tour from Reykjavik promises to maximize your chances of witnessing this natural phenomenon. While it’s not a guaranteed sighting—since the Northern Lights are famously unpredictable—the tour’s thoughtful touches and expert guidance make it a worthwhile option for those eager to try.

What really draws us in are the personal touches: the chance to get professional photos of you under the aurora, cozy hot chocolate to keep warm, and a small-group vibe that ensures personalized attention. We also appreciate that if luck isn’t on your side, you can rebook for free, giving you another shot. But, it’s worth noting that the success of this experience depends heavily on weather conditions, which is typical for Aurora hunting.

For travelers who value guide expertise, comfortable transport, and genuine efforts to chase clear skies, this tour could be a fantastic choice. It’s best suited for those who don’t mind the cold, enjoy small-group adventures, and are keen on capturing memorable photos of their trip. If you’re after a relaxed, informative, and cozy Northern Lights experience, read on.

Key Points

Expert guides: Guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly approach, enhancing the experience with insightful stories and assistance.
Photo opportunities: Complimentary professional digital photos of you and the Aurora are included, offering a lasting memory.
Comfort & convenience: Round-trip transfers from most Reykjavik hotels and WiFi onboard make the journey smooth and enjoyable.
Flexible rebooking: If weather conditions prevent sightings, you can rebook your tour for free, reducing worry about wasted effort or money.
Weather-dependent: The success hinges on good weather and clear skies; expect some disappointment if clouds obscure the Aurora.
Small group size: The max of 18 travelers means a more intimate experience, with better chances for personalized interaction and questions.

The Journey & What to Expect

Starting in Reykjavik

Your adventure kicks off with pickup from designated bus stops around Reykjavik. This is a big plus—no need to worry about arranging transport yourself. The tour typically lasts about 4 hours, so plan your evening accordingly. The minibus is cozy, and with WiFi onboard, you can share your excitement in real time or just relax while your guide sets the scene for an unforgettable night.

The Drive Out of Town

Once on the road, your guide will navigate away from the city’s light pollution, heading into darker, less obstructed areas where the Aurora is more likely to shine. The specific location changes depending on weather conditions and cloud cover, which is a smart move, as guides constantly adapt to optimize the chances of sightings. Several reviews mention long drives—sometimes quite a distance—to find clear skies, but most agree that this extra effort is worth it when the lights finally appear.

The Chase for the Aurora

The real magic happens when the sky shows signs of the Northern Lights. Your guide will share knowledge about what causes the phenomenon, explaining the science in an approachable way. Expect to wait patiently, sipping hot chocolate, snacking on Hraun Icelandic Chocolate bars, and chatting with fellow travelers. Guides are known for their persistence and enthusiasm, often driving around Iceland in search of the best viewing spots.

The Photos & Warmth

One of the most praised features is the complimentary digital photos. Guides are proactive, taking pictures of everyone against the backdrop of the swirling lights—something you’ll definitely want to keep as a memory. Reviewers have noted guides like David and Julianna as especially attentive and friendly, making sure everyone gets a chance for photos and feels comfortable despite the cold.

What If You Don’t See the Lights?

This is perhaps the most reassuring part. If the Northern Lights stay hidden behind clouds or simply don’t appear, the tour promises a free rebooking, so you can try again on another night. Many travelers have appreciated this flexibility; one reviewer shared they managed to rebook seamlessly after their first attempt, and on their second night, the show was spectacular.

Practical Details & Value

Transportation & Group Size

The tour uses a small-group minibus, capped at 18 people. This means a more personal experience, fewer crowds, and better chances to ask questions or request stops. The bus is equipped with WiFi, which makes waiting more enjoyable—some travelers even shared that guides would accommodate specific requests, like driving further to chase clear skies.

Duration & Timing

Four hours is enough time for a good chase, especially considering guides wait patiently for the Aurora to appear. The flexible location change boosts your odds, but it also means a bit of patience and a willingness to sit in the cold for stretches. Proper layering clothing is highly recommended, as some reviewers found it very cold and windy.

Cost & What You Get

At around $114 per person, this tour offers solid value—considering the round-trip transport, expert guidance, hot drinks, snacks, and especially the free photos. The inclusion of hot chocolate and Icelandic chocolate bars adds a cozy touch to the experience. Plus, the digital photos are a nice bonus—many reviewers say they cherish these keepsakes.

Considerations & Potential Drawbacks

While the tour is well-loved, some travelers mention minor inconveniences: miscommunication on pick-up locations, the bus not always being the most comfortable, and the unpredictability of the Northern Lights. One reviewer noted that they couldn’t hear their guide well, which highlights the importance of dressing appropriately and being prepared for cold weather and noise levels. Also, some reports show disappointment when the lights are obscured by clouds or weather conditions are poor—an unavoidable issue with Aurora tours.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Many reviewers expressed appreciation for guides like Jonas, Julianna, and David—who went above and beyond to take photos and keep spirits high. Several mentioned that guides were helpful with requests, and friendly enough to make the experience more personal. For example, one traveler noted that their guide, Nelu, did his best to chase clear skies, driving quite a distance around Iceland.

On the flip side, a few found the experience less enjoyable due to weather or logistical issues. One highlighted a pick-up miscommunication, waiting in the snow for over 40 minutes, reminding us that patience is key. Others mentioned that the bus could be uncomfortable, especially if you’re sensitive to colder temperatures.

The Aurora Experience

The most memorable moments for many were the nights when the lights truly danced in the sky, with vibrant colors and swirling patterns. Several reviewers described the Aurora as “spectacular” or “absolutely incredible,” often more stunning than they had imagined. Even if luck isn’t guaranteed, the thrill of the chase and the beautiful Icelandic night sky make this an adventure worth considering.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who:

• Want a guided, educational, and social Northern Lights expedition.
• Value professional photos to remember the trip.
• Are comfortable with cold weather and waiting outdoors.
• Appreciate small-group intimacy for personalized attention.
• Are flexible with timing and location changes based on weather.
• Seek a balance of adventure, comfort, and authentic Icelandic charm.

It may not be ideal if you’re looking for a guaranteed sighting or prefer a more luxurious, less weather-dependent experience.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
You get pickup and drop-off from designated Reykjavik bus stops, minibus transportation, hot chocolate, Icelandic chocolate bars, WiFi onboard, an English-speaking guide, and digital photos of you and the aurora.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 4 hours, giving enough time for the guide to chase clear skies and for you to wait patiently outdoors.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layers—think thermal underwear, insulated jackets, hats, gloves, and warm footwear. Some reviewers found it very cold and windy, so layers are essential.

Can I rebook if I don’t see the lights?
Yes, the tour offers a free rebooking, so you can try again on another night if the weather doesn’t cooperate.

Are the photos really free?
Yes, digital photos are included, taken by your guide during the tour. Many travelers treasure these images as they capture moments in the sky and with the group.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but be prepared for outdoor waiting in cold conditions. It’s best suited for those comfortable with cold weather and small-group excursions.

Final Thoughts

The Northern Lights Minibus Tour with Free Photos & Hot Chocolate offers a genuinely enjoyable way to chase one of Iceland’s most coveted spectacles. The combination of knowledgeable guides, cozy amenities, and the chance for beautiful photos makes it a compelling choice, especially if you’re after a guided experience that balances adventure with comfort.

While Aurora sightings depend heavily on weather conditions, the tour’s flexibility and efforts to find clear skies mean you’re giving yourself a solid shot at seeing the lights. It’s perfect for travelers who don’t mind waiting outside in the cold and want the reassurance of expert guidance and professional photos. If your Iceland trip is timed during the Aurora season, this tour can be a highlight—just remember to dress warm, be patient, and keep your fingers crossed.

In essence, this tour is a well-rounded, value-packed way to experience Iceland’s night sky, especially if you love the idea of a personal guide, cozy extras, and photos to remember the moment.