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Special Tours Wildlife Adventures – Whale Watching and Other Sea Tours!

Special Tours was founded in 1996 as an operator for puffin watching tours for tourists, and for scientific trips for school children. The company has since steadily branched out by offering whale watching, sea angling, northern lights by boat, Reykjavík by sea and numerous incentive & group tours.

Whale Watching

Join Special Tours for an informative and exciting whale watching tour! Our boats are located very close to the city centre in Reykjavík‘s famous Old Harbour. The most commonly spotted whales in Faxaflói Bay are minke whales, white-beaked dolphins, humpback whales and harbour porpoises. An experienced guide will share their extensive knowledge and fun facts about the wildlife we encounter at sea. While searching for the whales, enjoy the beautiful scenery all around you on our way out and back.

Special Tours is proud to offer three types of whale watching tours!

CLASSIC Whale Watching (3-3.5 hours) – Hop on board Andrea, one of the largest whale watching boats in Iceland, with plenty of space to view the whales both inside and outside! This tour operates year-round, and we are happy to be able to offer German guiding during the summer season. There is a special educational and interactive focus on board, with whale bones, teeth and baleen plates for passengers to see and touch. A cafe, souvenir shop and restrooms are all on board. Free Wi-Fi and warm overalls are also provided for everyone!

EXPRESS Whale Watching (2-2.5 hours) – Offered from May – September, this express tour goes on a smaller and faster boat. It is perfect for those looking for a bit of adventure, or simply trying to fit in as much as possible during their vacation! In only 20-30 minutes you will have reached the feeding grounds, spending less time waiting. A snack bar and restrooms are on the boat, and free Wi-Fi and warm overalls are provided for everyone!

RIB EXPRESS Whale Watching (2 hours) – We have two powerful RIB boats that allows us to get extra close to the whales in a way that is safe for both the animals and our lovely passengers. Available from April 15 – October 31st, this exciting express tour is extra-fast and has built in shock absorbing seats to make it more comfortable. During the summer months we also visit the islands that the puffins nest on during our way out to the feeding grounds. We provide warm overalls, life jackets, gloves and goggles for all passengers!

Please note that these tours are weather dependant and sightings of wildlife cannot be guaranteed. If you are not able to see the whales on your tour you will get a complimentary ticket to try again on the next available day!

Puffin Express (1 hour) – During the summer Special Tours offers a quick 1 hour tour to see the famous puffins! The puffins are in Iceland for their nesting season (around May 1st – August 20th), and have breeding grounds on islands just off the coast of Reykjavík. In only 15 minutes you will be out watching these adorable little birds while getting amazing views of Reykjavík and the surrounding mountains. Our boats can get you extra close to the islands! We provide binoculars on board and recomend a good camera lens for close-up pictures.

Puffin Express by RIB Speedboat (1 hour) – The Puffin Express by RIB Speedboat is the perfect option for an exciting, fast tour that presents the opportunity to get really close to the birds! The adventure starts at the Old Harbour of Reykjavík and only takes one hour.

Sea Angling (2.5-3 hours) – Enjoy a real fishing experience and a BBQ on board during this sea angling tour, available from May 1st – September 15th. This tour is great for all ages and levels of experience, as our expert crew is happy to assist anyone who is not familiar with fishing. All necessary fishing equipment and protective clothing is provided. The catch is grilled on board for an exceptionally delicious fresh taste straight from the ocean!

Northern Lights by Boat (2-3 hours) – Watching the northern lights from the ocean is an amazing experience you will not want to miss! Join us in search for the northern lights at sea, escaping the light pollution from the city. There is plenty of space on the outer viewing decks, and warm overalls are provided! There are also heated indoor seating areas, a special northern lights video and refreshments for sale. Your guide will explain the science behind the lights and share facts, stories and myths about the lights from cultures around the world. Please note that this tour is weather dependant and sightings of naturally occurring phenemona cannot be guaranteed. If you are not able to see the lights on your tour you will get a complimentary ticket to try again on the next available day!

Northern Lights by Boat with a Backup Plan (NON-REFUNDABLE)

This Northern Lights by Boat with a Backup Plan tour is a great choice for people who want a guaranteed adventure, even if the weather does not agree with us! If the Northern Lights tour is confirmed to sail, you will join the regularly scheduled tour. If the Northern Lights tour is not able to sail due to weather or cloud coverage you are automatically placed on another tour that has been set up in partnership with the Whales of Iceland museum. Enjoy a tour of the museum, a special Northern Lights video and a Q&A session with one of our expert Northern Lights guides and a complimentary drink! You will also receive a ticket to join the Northern Lights by Boat tour on the next available day.

All of our boats are very comfortable and have great viewing areas. Our three largest boats, Andrea, Lilja and Rósin, have free wireless internet on board. Warm overalls are provided for all whale watching and northern lights tours, and protective clothing is provided for all sea angling tours. Andrea has a cafeteria and souvenir ship, three different indoor saloons and six restrooms. The outside view over the ocean is beautiful, with room for all – very family friendly! Our regular express boats have a snack bar, modern and comfortable indoor seating areas, restrooms and great viewing platforms outside. Our RIB express boat is fitted with comfortable shock absorbing seats and all necessary safety gear provided – a fun and exciting tour for all!

Safety is Special Tours‘ number 1 priority and we follow IceWhale‘s code of conduct for responsible and sustainable whale watching. Special Tours also has an extensive environmental policy, and we are proud to be a certified gold member of Vakinn – Quality & Environmental Label of the Icelandic Tourist board, and to carry the Blue Flag since 2011. In 2016 Special Tours received the environmental awared of Faxaflóahafnir, Associated Icelandic Ports.

Special Tours is conveniently located in Reykjavík‘s Old Harbour, only a 5 minute walk from the city center. Pick-up & drop-off services are offered for an additional fee from all hotels and guesthouses (or designated pick-up zones) in the greater Reykjavík area.

“WE GO THE EXTRA MILE”

Day Tour Provider

Winter adventure

Bird Watching

Team Building and Incentive tours

Northern Ligths Tour

Sea Angling

Geirsgata 11

YOUR ICELAND PRIVATE TOUR COMPANY

Perfect choice for families and small groups

LUXURY WITH CHARACTER

Attention to details

EXCEPTIONAL LANDSCAPE

Unforgettable experience, your perfect private tour.

With the best local guides

KRISTJÁN JÓNSSON, THE FOUNDER OF ICELAND DISCOVERY:

“Warm welcome to the land of fire and ice”

“Years of experience have taught us the essentials when it comes to putting together the perfect private tour for the discerning traveler. Whether it is a private day tour or your once-in-a-lifetime Iceland Complete Luxury Tour. We can custom design your unforgettable tour by making sure your experience will be flawless, colourful and full of adventures”

Luxury tours to every corner of Iceland

Sample private programs.

We have crafted and tested to perfection our adventure private tours to Iceland’s most  spectacular places, winter, summer, spring or fall. You’ll be in a good company with the  local experts. Check out some of our sample programmes or have us create your own unique Iceland tour.

Volcanoes and Glaciers

Glaciers, volcanos, waterfalls and the black sand beaches

The Family Adventure Tour

Adventure activities and magical landscapes

From Islands to the Highlands

Westman Islands and the colorful Highlands

The great West

The road less travelled

The Grand Tour

Iceland in a nutshell

Northern Lights Luxury Tour

Best hotels in Winter Wonderland

 Luxury hotels, villas, boutique, authentic and hip hideaways

Our carefully selected 2024 edition of accommodation.

Book with us to get Iceland’s best. Your bonus is our travel expertise for your touring in Iceland, guides and transport booking, carefully selected restaurants etcetera, etcetera. Please note that most of the exclusive villas are not listed on the net.

Sand hotel Reykjavik Center

New, stylish design hotel with tasteful and comfortable rooms

Hotel Sigló Siglufjördur

Boutique and design, premium hotel with sea and mountain view

Skálakot Manor House South Coast

A wonderful lodge, restaurant & horse farm

The Retreat At The Blue Lagoon

A luxury hotel with one of a kind spa and an award winning restaurant

Testimonials

What people are saying.

“A Great Find”

“Iceland Discovery put an amazing 10 days itinerary together for our family of four. Awesome Christmas 2015 and New Year vacation.”

Rosa and family Los Angeles

“Trip of a lifetime”

“The trip of a lifetime! We will definitely plan another trip and wouldn’t hesitate in recommending Iceland Discovery.”

“Excellent tour”

“We had the best excellent private tour with Iceland Discovery. Iceland Discovery put an amazing 9 days itinerary planning for the 8 of us. Highly recommend Iceland Discovery.”

Peter, Singapore

“Fabulous”

“Along with our 13 year old grandson we had a fabulous 5-day private tour with Iceland Discovery”

Ken and Phyllis, Boston

Adventure activities

Would you like your Iceland tour, packed with adventure activities?

We provide every possible experience to add to your tour

Geothermal pools. Luxury made by nature

Glacier lakes Kayaks or boat tours

Top a glacier On snowmobile

Icelandic horses They love to ride with you!

Private day tours.

Take a look at some of our most popular private day tours. Choose your favorite one, or more, and get a better price. We would be so happy to tailor a special day tour for you. Just send us a line.

Golden Circle Special

Waterfalls, hot springs and tectonic fissures

Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Magical coastal landscape

The South Coast

Waterfalls, glaciers and black sand beaches

Iceland Insider

Christmas adventure holidays in Iceland

Want to consider a luxury break in Iceland this Christmas?  Why not talk to the expert locals that have experience in creating, premium, bespoke tours for families and couples. See the Northern Lights, chances of seeing this incredible phenomenon are more than 80% if...

It’s erupting again in Iceland. This is what you need to know.

Not even a year since we had the last one, and in Iceland, Mother Nature is serving another melting pot of lava! It’s in the same area as the 2021 eruption. We call this one the Merardalir eruption and it’s believed to be at least twice as big as the Fagradalsfjall...

Where to shop for the best local brands in Iceland.

When in Reykjavík, start by taking a walk-along the main drag of Laugavegur, Reykjavík’s downtown pedestrian street, and you'll find most of the noteworthy local shops of design, outdoor garments, jewellery and memorabilia. By including the Grandi by the port area,...

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The 17 best iceland tours: northern lights, waterfalls & more.

Enjoy glacier hikes, whale watching cruises and the northern lights on these Iceland tours.

The Best Iceland Tours

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With terrain shaped by volcanic eruptions and shifting tectonic plates and the surrounding waters filled with glaciers, icebergs and whales, Iceland is like no other place on Earth. It's also an ideal spot to observe a seasonal phenomenon above the Earth: the northern lights  (or aurora borealis).

The following Iceland tours, determined by U.S. News to be the best available thanks to expert input and traveler sentiment, provide ideal ways of experiencing all that this extraordinary place has to offer. All of these excursions are conducted by knowledgeable guides eager to share their insights into their country's special features.

Ice Lagoon Adventure Tours – Zodiac Boat Tour

Price: Adults from 14,900 Icelandic króna (about $108); kids from 8,900 króna (about $65) Duration: 75 minutes

Explore the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon – part of Vatnajökull National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to Europe's largest glacier – aboard an inflatable rigid boat on this expedition. In addition to icebergs and the glacial wall, you might also spot wildlife like seals and various bird species. Tourgoers consistently describe the guides as passionate and knowledgeable, and say photo opportunities abound. Trips are available from May through October several times a day, with departures in both the morning and the afternoon. The park containing the lagoon sits in the southeast part of the country, about 236 miles from Reykjavik . Ice Lagoon Adventure Tours also runs private excursions.

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NiceTravel – Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon & Kerid Volcano

Price: Adults from $218; kids from $123 Duration: 11 hours

Visit the Golden Circle's top sights, including Thingvellir National Park and Gullfoss, plus a volcanic crater and a pristine lagoon on this daylong journey. The park is of both geological and historical significance as it straddles a fault line between two tectonic plates and was the site of a Viking parliament that ruled for hundreds of years starting in A.D. 930. Other highlights include Geysir, a hot spring that shoots plumes of vapor into the air; Gullfoss (aka the Golden Waterfall) over which water cascades down more than 100 feet into a narrow canyon; Kerid, a colorful red-earth volcanic crater; and a two-hour stop at the heated waters of the popular Blue Lagoon. Tour-takers invariably find the scenery spectacular and the guides friendly and informative, though a few found the bus to be too small for the number of people on the tour. Tours happen daily all year long. Pickup from various locations in Reykjavik occurs between 8:30 and 9 a.m. and minibuses return to the city around 8 p.m.

Reykjavik Sailors – Whale Watching

Price: Adults from 11,990 króna (about $87); kids from 5,995 króna (about $44) Duration: 3 to 3.5 hours

While April to October is considered peak season for whale watching off Iceland's coast, humpback, minke and orca whales, as well as porpoises and dolphins, inhabit the waters all year. Reykjavik Sailors, located on Reykjavik's Old Harbour, offers whale watching boat trips throughout the year. Tourgoers report spotting ample wildlife, and appreciate the knowledgeable, friendly guides.

Transportation from area hotels is available for an additional fee. Snacks and beverages are available aboard the boat, which features outdoor viewing platforms as well as heated indoor space. Reykjavik Sailors also operates tours of the northern lights, among other options.

Arctic Adventures – Crystal Ice Cave Tour Iceland

Price: Adults from about $161; kids from around $137 Duration: 2 to 3 hours

Take a ride in an off-roading vehicle from the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon to the edge of the massive Vatnajökull glacier and then hike to a natural ice cave on this small-group excursion. The tour, which is limited to 14 travelers, also allows you to witness the result of calving – the process of icebergs breaking off of glaciers. Tourgoers frequently praise the capable and personable guides. Many reviewers called this the highlight of their trip to Iceland.

Trips depart from the lagoon daily from October to mid-April beginning at 9:20 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. While the hike to the cave is rated as easy, children younger than 6 are not allowed on this trip. All of the necessary safety equipment is included in the cost of the tour. Arctic Adventures conducts a variety of ice cave tours, glacier hikes and more.

BusTravel Iceland – South Coast Waterfalls, Glacier & Black Sand Beach Tour

Price: Adults from 13,990 króna (about $103); kids from 6,995 króna (about $52) Duration: 10 hours

This daylong outing affords opportunities to explore the glaciers, volcanos and other distinctive features of Iceland's southern coast . Highlights include Skógafoss, a nearly 200-foot waterfall beside the Eyjafjallajökull volcano; the slightly taller Seljalandsfoss waterfall; Reynisfjara, a beach on the north Atlantic Ocean with black volcanic sand and basalt columns; a stop for lunch in the fishing village of Vik; and Sólheimajökull glacier. Tour-takers consistently call the scenery extraordinary and the guides informative, though they do warn that it is a long day.

Transportation from various Reykjavik locations is available for an additional charge. Pickups occur between 8 and 8:30 a.m. Prices do not cover any food and drink in Vik. Note: Reaching the glacier involves walking on uneven ground. BusTravel Iceland also leads tours exploring the Golden Circle, the northern lights and more.

Your Friend in Reykjavik – Walk With a Viking

Price: Adults from $45; kids from $29 Duration: 2 hours

See the sights of Reykjavik on this two-hour walking tour of the city's center. Highlights include Harpa (an incredible performance venue), Hallgrímskirkja church, the Parliament building and Reykjavik harbor, as well as the first Viking house. Tour-takers find this stroll to be a great way to get to know the city and recommend taking the tour on one of your first days in Iceland. Reviewers consistently describe the guides as great storytellers and eager to answer any questions.

Groups of up to 12 depart from Ingólfur Square daily at 10 a.m. and 1 and 5 p.m. Your Friend in Reykjavik offers a variety of tours, including food tours, cooking classes, adventure tours and more.

Troll Expeditions – Snorkeling in Silfra

Price: From 19,900 króna (about $145) Duration: 3 hours

Snorkel between tectonic plates in the only place where that's possible during this adventure. Located in Thingvellir National Park about a 30-mile drive northeast of Reykjavik, Silfra fissure lies in the space where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates have slowly moved apart. Its water, from the melted ice of the Langjökull glacier, is exceptionally clean, boasting visibility of about 330 feet. Snorkelers laud the attentive, professional guides as well as the one-of-a-kind experience.

Snorkeling trips are available year-round at least twice a day; start times vary depending on the season. Groups are limited to six people. There are age, weight and health restrictions for this tour; check with the company before you book to ensure you meet all the necessary requirements. Troll Expeditions also offers guided glacier hikes, day trips and multiday excursions around the country to the South Coast, Ring Road and more.

Wake Up Reykjavik – Reykjavik Food Tour

Price: Adults from 16,900 króna (about $123); kids from 9,900 króna (about $72) Duration: 3 hours

Sample an array of Icelandic cuisine on this walking tour of downtown Reykjavik. Try eight traditional dishes, including fish and grass-fed lamb, as well as ice cream and street food. (Vegetarians and those with allergies or other dietary restrictions can usually be accommodated.) Between stops, you'll stroll past notable sites, such as the Parliament building and city hall. Travelers praise the pace of the tour and the dishes featured. Reviewers also applauded guides for their humor and the depth of their knowledge about Iceland's history and culture.

Tours start outside Harpa concert hall every day beginning at 10:30 a.m. until 5 p.m. Wake Up Reykjavik also organizes day trips to the Golden Circle, the South Coast and more.

Adventure Vikings – Silfra Drysuit Snorkeling

Price: From 18,990 króna (about $138) Duration: 2 to 4.5 hours

Explore the pristine glacial waters between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates on this snorkeling tour in Silfra, one of the world's top dive sites. Part of Thingvellir National Park, Silfra fissure is the result of the two tectonic plates separating at a rate of about 2 centimeters per year. The fissure is filled with water from Langjökull glacier that's been filtered through lava fields, making it incredibly pure. Snorkelers rave about the Silfra fissure's beauty and praise the guides for their attention to safety.

The tour lasts up to 4.5 hours depending if round-trip transportation from Reykjavik is needed. Prices include use of snorkeling equipment. You can rent a wearable GoPro camera for an additional 6,900 króna (around $51). Tours are available year-round. Snorkelers must be at least 12 years old; groups have no more than six people per guide. Participants preferring to don a less restrictive (but also less warm) wetsuit instead of a dry suit have that option. There are height and weight requirements for this tour. Adventure Vikings also leads surfing and stand-up paddleboarding tours, among other outings.

Special Tours – Northern Lights by Boat

Price: Adults from 12,990 króna (about $95); kids from 6,495 króna (about $48) Duration: 2 to 3 hours

Enjoy the unique opportunity to observe the northern lights from the ocean on this two- to three-hour boat ride. You'll depart from Old Harbour in Reykjavik and be in the perfect viewing location away from the city lights after about a 20-minute cruise. Along the way, guides regale passengers with stories, myths and scientific facts about the aurora borealis. Travelers praise the amazing views as well as the humorous, helpful guides. Others appreciated the company's backup plan: If the conditions aren't favorable for viewing the lights from the water, you can hunt for the lights by bus, or choose one of the company's other tours (such as a daytime whale watching excursion) at no charge.

Cruises are available nightly in the fall and winter. Departure times vary by time of year, but boats typically sail at 10 p.m. in September and mid-March to mid-April; they depart at 9 p.m. from October to mid-March. Food and drinks are available for purchase on board. The company also offers whale watching excursions, fishing trips and more.

ĺshestar – Lava Tour

Price: Adults from 15,900 króna (about $117); kids from 11,925 króna (about $87) Duration: 2 hours

Admire the green hillsides and lava fields just outside Reykjavik on this two-hour small-group horseback riding tour. The stables are located about 10 miles south of the city center; round-trip transportation is available if you don't have your own car. Travelers frequently describe riding an Icelandic horse as a fantastic experience, and they generally appreciate the professionalism of the staff who lead the outing.

Rides depart every day at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. The cost includes the use of helmets and boots, as well as post-ride coffee, tea or hot chocolate. Round-trip transportation from Reykjavik is available for an additional fee and starts an hour before the tour. Groups are limited to 20 participants; all must be at least 7 years old and weigh less than 240 pounds. No prior horseback riding experience is necessary. Longer, multiday trail rides, as well as private tours are also available.

BusTravel Iceland – Snaefellsnes Peninsula Tour

Price: Adults from 16,990 króna (about $125); kids from 8,495 króna (about $62) Duration: 11 hours

In addition to its tours of the southern coast, BusTravel Iceland offers a daylong tour of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, an area northwest of Reykjavik that boasts black sand beaches, lava fields, beautiful waterfalls , rock formations and more. Highlights include Berserkjahraun lava fields, which date back to a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago; the 1,520-foot Kirkjufell (aka Church Mountain); the nearby Kirkjufellsfoss waterfalls; Snaefellsjökull National Park and the cliffs of Arnarstapi harbor, once a bustling fishing area. Travelers typically enjoy both the dramatic landscapes and the guides' commentary.

Tours last approximately 11 hours. Pickup from various Reykjavik locations is available for an additional fee. Tours are available daily starting at 8 and 9 a.m.

CityWalk Reykjavik – Free Walking Tour Reykjavik

Price: Free Duration: 2 hours

Stroll among the main attractions of downtown Reykjavik , including the statue of Jón Sigurðsson and the Harpa concert hall, on this approximately two-hour, 1.3-mile tour. Guides will regale you with stories concerning Icelandic history, as well as lore involving elves, Vikings and more, which tour-takers deem highly entertaining.

Walks start at 10:30 a.m. or 1:30 p.m. every day at the Austurvöllur (the city's main square) and conclude at city hall. Bookings open up about five days in advance. While there's no fee for this tour, guides do appreciate tips. There are no age or group-size limits. CityWalk Reykjavik does offer a slightly longer, small-group tour for a fee.

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GeoIceland – Premium Golden Circle Tour

Price: Adults from 18,900 króna (about $140); kids from 14,900 króna (about $110) Duration: 9 hours

Visit the rift between two tectonic plates, the powerful waterfall and the geothermal area comprising Iceland's famed Golden Circle and more on this daylong tour. In addition to the high cliffs of the rift valley in Thingvellir National Park, the often rainbow-adorned Gullfoss waterfall and the hot spring Geysir, this tour stops at the Kerid volcanic crater, as well as a tomato farm. Tour-takers frequently cite both the stunning scenery and the friendly, amusing guides as highlights of this journey.

Buses depart from the Aurora Reykjavik museum daily at 9 a.m. and return approximately nine hours later. Prices include admission to all attractions, but exclude lunch at the tomato farm's restaurant. GeoIceland also runs tours that depart from other cities in Iceland, including Akureyri and the Lake Mývatn area.

Iceland Everywhere Tours – Northern Lights Midnight Adventure Tour

Price: From 15,800 króna (around $115) Duration: 3 to 5 hours

Spend the night searching for the northern lights on this seasonal outing. During the trip, guides not only provide information about the aurora borealis, local history and Icelandic culture, but also assist participants with finding the right setting on their cameras or smartphones to capture the best images. Free professional photographs are also available if you'd prefer to simply admire the sky. Reviewers rave about the colorful lights and appreciate the small size of the group. Several travelers also called out the insightful guides as a highlight.

These minibus rides happen every night from September to mid-April starting at 9 p.m. and last from three to five hours. Transportation from area hotels is available. There is a maximum of 15 participants per each tour. Iceland Everywhere Tours also offers guided excursions to the South Coast and the Golden Circle.

Funky Iceland – The Funky Food & Beer Walk

Price: Adults from 18,000 króna (about $131); kids from 7,500 króna (about $55) Duration: 3 hours

Enjoy a culinary adventure on this three-hour walking tour of Reykjavik. The tour has five food stops featuring nine traditional Icelandic dishes, such as lamb stew, dried fish and fermented shark, as well as five locally crafted beers. Foodies tend to relish the savvy guides' insights into Icelandic culture and cuisine. Tours start outside the Hallgrímskirkja Church at 4 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday. Groups range in size from two to eight people.

Icelandic Mountain Guides – Blue Ice Experience

Price: Adults from 18,999 króna (about $138); kids from 13,299 króna (about $97) Duration: 3.5 hours

Hike among the ice formations, crevasses and frozen ridges of the enormous Vatnajökull glacier on this small-group expedition. Outings of up to 15 people commence at the welcome center at Skaftafell (about 200 miles southeast of Reykjavik) and last about 3.5 hours, including up to 1.5 to two hours on the ice. Past participants consistently describe the scenery as stunning and the guides as professional and informative.

Tours are available multiple times a day, beginning at 9 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. Children younger than 10 may not join the tour. Prices include the use of ice axes, harnesses and crampons. Icelandic Mountain Guides operates a variety of glacier walks, snowmobile tours and guided hikes.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Hotels in Reykjavik
• The Northern Lights in Iceland: How to See Them
• The Best Northern Lights Alaska Cruises for 2024 & Beyond
• The Best Places to Visit in Europe
• The Best International Travel Insurance

Tags: Iceland , Tours , Travel , Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
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Special Tours

Opening Hours: Mon - Sun: 9.00am - 5.00pm

Website: www.specialtours.is

Email: [email protected]

Special Tours was founded in 1996 as a Puffin Watching & School Trip Sea Tour Operator. We are very proud to be the first company in our marketplace to offer these unique tours from Reykjavik & for being able to have expanded into offering all the other sea adventures we offer today.

Special Tours Wildlife Adventures is known amongst passengers and partners for its ambitious & hard working team, aiming for great adventures for every tour and for every client. Our staff excels in running the operation of Whale Watching Tours, Puffin Tours, Sea Angling and Northern Lights Excursions.

Special Tours’ main focus is comfort and personal service, while making sure we protect and respect the environment. We have a skilled & friendly crew, as well as an experienced guide on every tour.

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Magical 2 Hour Northern Lights Boat Cruise with Transfer from Reykjavik

Description

See the Northern Lights from the open waters of Faxaflói Bay, on this boat cruise that sets out from Reykjavík’s Old Harbour. If you’re staying in the capital but wish to escape the city lights to bask in the glow of the Aurora Borealis, this is the excursion for you. 

Your adventure begins at the scenic Old Harbour by Reykjavík's city centre. The Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre lights up the area with an incredible glass panel display, as you board your boat and set sails for Faxaflói Bay.

Prepare to see the Reykjavík shoreline in all its glory, until you escape the lights and are greeted by the darkness of winter. If the skies are clear, you will see the stars of the night sky shine brighter than before, with the only beacon of light being the luminous Imagine Peace Tower, where it rests in the island of Viðey. 

Then, prepare yourself for a stunning display of the Northern Lights, as they dance in an array of different colours, ranging from green and pink to purple and yellow. You will spend over an hour in the waters, but don’t worry about getting cold, since the boat boasts a cosy indoor cabin with a bar which you can retreat to at any time. 

Your expert local guides will share captivating stories and mythical folklore about the Northern Lights from different cultures around the world, as well as explaining the quintessential science behind this incredible natural phenomenon of the Arctic night sky. 

Now, the lights show up on their own accord and can never be unquestionably guaranteed, but by reading the cloud forecast and solar wind occurrences, the lights are often able to be calculated regarding their appearance. 

If, however, the Aurora doesn’t show on the night of your cruise, don’t worry, you will receive a free voucher to try again on any other night. Make use of the darkness outside Reykjavík’s shores and book your Northern Lights cruise now. Check availability by choosing a date. 

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Good to know.

Please note that these tours are subject to the correct weather conditions and sightings cannot be guaranteed. The right is reserved to cancel the tour due to unfavourable weather conditions if need be.

If you want to know the status of the Aurora forecast of the night of your cruise, contact the tour operator directly.

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South Coast Tours

Puffin Express

Children 7-15 years: 3.745 ISK

Children 0-6 years: FREE

Duration: 1 hour

Puffin Express from Reykjavik

This is your chance to see these cute birds on a 1-hour boat ride just minutes away from Reykjavik city centre.

Inexpensive & charming adventure!

Tour description

The Puffin Watching tours with Special Tours, Puffin Express, have been popular for over 20 years! Our great experience, and especially designed boat, Skúlaskeið or “Old Skuli”, makes us the leading expert in the area. There are about 30.000 puffins nesting on the islands off the coast of Reykjavik and we are only a 15 minute boat ride away!

We sail out from the old harbour in Reykjavik and it only takes us about 15 minutes to reach the p uffin island, Akurey . On the journey out you will be able to view Reykjavik from the seaside [ remember your camera ] and the guide will also share information about the buildings & islands that can be spotted along the way.

The islands we visit are covered with small hills and slopes and both are well known for their  colorful birdlife . The island’s shores are rocky but our boat Old Skuli is specially designed to take us  as close to the islands as possible  due to its shallow draft. When we arrive to the islands we turn off the engine so our passengers can observe the birds and the beautiful surroundings.

Our expert guide will tell you all the facts and fun stories about the cute puffins and other wildlife that might be seen on the tour.

Special Tours Iceland app with 5 languages (English, German, French, Spanish and simplified Chinese) available for Android and Apple. It is available for all clients to download before or during the tour, with both text and audio information. The app is as close to an audio guided wildlife adventure as possible.

What's included

• Guided boat tour
• 100% Sightings
• Binoculars available on board.
• We get you extra close!
• 20 years of experience

Tour details

Information

Useful Tip: We recommend a good zoom lens for close-up photography as the puffins are small sized birds.

*Operated until 20th August

Additional information

Please note that the starting point for this tour is the Special Tours Ticket Office, located at Geirsgata 11, 101 Reykjavík.

You will be asked to show a valid form of ID upon arrival for check-in.

Please note: Pick-up starts 30 minutes before the departure of the tour.

Important information

We do not have parking in the harbour, but there are plenty of pay-to-park spots and a parking garage nearby. There is also a free parking area in the next harbour (5 min walking distance), and our staff is happy to direct you there if needed.

BOOKING - Puffin Express

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RIB Express

Whale watching reykjavík, northern lights by boat, whale watching akureyri.

11.192 ISK (Full price 13.990 ISK)

Geirsgata 11 Reykjavik's Old Harbour

101 Reykjavik

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Northern Lights Tours In Iceland

Choose our small group aurora borealis tours from reykjavik or north iceland and experience the unforgettable magic.

Northern Lights Tours Iceland

About Our Iceland Northern Lights Tours

Our Northern Lights tours are a memorable adventure for those looking to witness one of nature's most spectacular shows. Tours start from Reykjavík or North Iceland and take you into the remote Icelandic countryside, away from city lights, for optimal viewing of the Aurora Borealis. Enjoy convenient pick-up and drop-off, hot cocoa, and cozy blankets to keep you comfortable. You can also get free photos taken by your guide during the tour!

Our 3 Best Northern Lights Tours

Magical Auroras - Northern Lights Tour

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Northern Lights by Boat in Iceland

Northern Lights Super Jeep Tour

Discover the aurora in small groups.

We keep our group sizes small for a more personal experience. Our tours use minibusses for remote spots and Super Jeeps for fun adventures on rugged terrain. For a deeper understanding of the Northern Lights science, we offer combo tours that include admission to the Iceland Aurora Museum. We always do our best to help you see the Northern Lights. Yet, even if they are not visible at that time due to unpredictable weather, we have you covered! If the lights don’t appear on your tour, you can take another trip free of charge within three years. Join us and experience the magic of the Aurora Borealis!

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What are the northern lights.

Creating memories beneath the magical Aurora. Source: Arctic Adventures

Northern Lights are nature’s most jaw-dropping spectacle to date. They appear naturally when the sun's electric particles interact with gases in the Earth’s atmosphere. This collision causes the glow!

This phenomenon is most visible near the magnetic poles in the Arctic and Antarctic regions. Known as Aurora Borealis in the Northern Hemisphere, they are called Aurora Australis in the Southern Hemisphere. Together, they are often referred to as the polar lights .

You’ll easily recognize them. The lights look like waves or ribbons waving in the sky. Aurora Borealis colors , mainly green, red, and purple, perfectly contrast against the dark black background of the sky. It makes the spectacle look like a work of art.

The lights’ appearance depends a lot on weather conditions, solar activity, darkness, and location. Luckily, it’s common to see colorful light displays in Iceland, especially from September to April. The nights are dark and long, and the island is in the ideal spot, near a magnetic pole. You can track weather and aurora forecasts online or join a tour with guides who have years of experience in chasing the Aurora!

Explore more about the magical Northern Lights in Iceland and the science behind them.

Is it worth booking a Northern Lights Tour in Iceland?

Absolutely! Guided tours are led by expert guides who have experience looking for the auroras. They know the best places to visit and how to interpret forecast information accurately. On combo trips, you'll also enjoy some sightseeing along the way.

How much does it cost to see the Northern Lights in Iceland?

Our tours, designed to find the Northern Lights, start at just 12,990 ISK, or approximately 95 USD per person. For a unique experience, you can book a Super Jeep tour, which costs from 23,990 ISK or approximately 174 USD per person. We also offer more options to suit different budgets!

Can you see the Northern Lights from Iceland?

Yes, due to its proximity to the Arctic Circle, Iceland is the perfect destination to see the auroras. As Iceland is not densely populated, there is little light pollution. Even so, our tours always venture out from the cities to the countryside for optimal viewing.

Which is the best Northern Lights tour in Iceland?

Our most popular and highly rated Aurora tour is the Minibus Tour with Free Photos Included . You can also upgrade to a combo deal with the Aurora Museum, where you'll learn about the lights and get photography tips. Plus, you’ll save 10% when you book this combo and enjoy a convenient pick-up after the museum to chase the lights!

How to book a Northern Lights tour?

The easiest way to book a tour is through our website. Choose from our selection of tours and find the right one. Due to popularity, make sure to book your seat beforehand. Please remember that the Northern Lights appear from September to April. For a privately arranged Aurora tour or something more specific, please contact us directly .

Can I book a Northern Lights tour from Reykjavik?

Yes, the majority of our Northern Lights tours include pick-up and drop-off in the capital city. From there, you will be driven outside the urban area to see the lights. We also offer pick-ups from various locations in Iceland for private tours.

When and where can you see the Northern Lights in Iceland?

You can see Aurora Borealis in Iceland from September to April when the nights are darker and longer. The best chances are during December and January, when there are only four to five hours of sunlight each day. The best locations are outside of Reykjavik, such as Þingvellir National Park, Hvalfjörður, or the Reykjanes Peninsula, where you can escape artificial light.

Is Akureyri good for the Northern Lights?

Absolutely! The capital of North Iceland is ideal for viewing the ethereal glow. It’s not as developed as Reykjavik, so there won’t be a lot of light pollution. Our guided tour of Aurora in Akureyri will take you to the best viewpoints for the polar lights!

What to wear when hunting the Aurora?

Since you’ll be chasing the Northern Lights at night in winter, it’s essential to dress warm. Make sure to wear comfortable layers, including an undershirt, a fleece sweater, and a jacket on top. Don’t forget to include thermal underwear or leggings for extra warmth!

What are the best camera settings for photographing the Aurora Borealis?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer since capturing the auroras takes some trial and error. Be ready to try different settings on your camera. Bring extra batteries, and consider using a tripod to stabilize your shots. For more tips and detailed settings, check out our tips for shooting the Aurora Borealis .

Will my guide take pictures for me?

Yes, the guide will take a photo of you with the Northern Lights behind you. These can be single or group photos and are free of charge. They will be available online after the tour.

Will I definitely see the lights on the tour?

The Northern Lights are natural phenomena and we unfortunately cannot promise you will see them on our tours. Your chances of seeing them depend on a number of factors that are out of our control, including weather conditions and atmospheric factors.

How do I know if the Northern Lights tour is on for the evening?

You can check the Aurora activity predictions with information about the metrics that determine their visibility. If the activity level is high and the skies are clear, the tour is likely to go ahead. We will update our website’s tour departure information by 17:00 at the latest, and if your tour is canceled for any reason, you’ll receive an email notifying you of the details.

What are my options if my tour is canceled?

When Northern Lights tours are canceled, it’s usually due to unfavorable weather conditions.

In that case, your options will be to:

• Reschedule for another day.
• Find another tour to embark on and use the deposit for it.
• Get fully refunded.

Please contact our Customer Care team to re-book your tour.

What if my Northern Lights tour goes ahead and the Aurora isn’t seen?

A refund is not available if the Northern Lights tour goes ahead and none are seen. However, we offer the opportunity to join another Northern Lights minibus tour free of charge. This offer is valid for three years, giving you plenty of time to try again!

Please contact our Customer Care Team to re-book your tour.

Why Travel With Us?

Northern lights iceland photos.

Explore the Northern Lights photos from Arctic Adventures tours. Join one of the trips to capture your own aurora!

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