arctic adventure tours iceland

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4 Day Tours in Iceland

Multi-day trips with & without accommodation.

Multi-day Tours

4 Day Tours

Do you have 4 days to spend in Iceland. We provide 4 day tours from Reykjavik with accommodation for those who would like to explore the Icelandic Nature. We also have 4 day packages without accommodation for those who would like to stay in Reykjavik.

4 day tours with accommodation

4-Day Trekking Tour in Laugavegur

Laugavegur 4 day Hut to Hut Trekking tour

4 Day - Golden Circle, South Coast, Ice Cave & Recently Erupted Volcano

4 Day Northern Lights, Snaefellsnes & Glacier Lagoon

4 Day Tour: Golden Circle, Jokulsarlon, South Coast, Landmannalaugar

4-Day Glacier Kayaking Tour In Iceland

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Arctic Adventures

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Golden Circle Small-Group Afternoon Tour from Reykjavik

Katla Volcano Ice Cave Small-Group Tour from Reykjavik

6-Day Small-Group Adventure Tour Around Iceland from Reykjavik

3-Day Golden Circle, Ice Cave, Glacier Lagoon and Canyon Tour

SuperSaver: Small Group Silfra Snorkeling & Lava Caving Adventure from 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.

Arctic Adventures - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Arctic Adventures

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Golden Circle Small-Group Afternoon Tour from Reykjavik

Katla Volcano Ice Cave Small-Group Tour from Reykjavik

6-Day Small-Group Adventure Tour Around Iceland from Reykjavik

3-Day Golden Circle, Ice Cave, Glacier Lagoon and Canyon Tour

SuperSaver: Small Group Silfra Snorkeling & Lava Caving Adventure from 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 waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

ARCTIC ADVENTURES (Reykjavik) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

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Into the Glacier Ice Tunnel Tour in Langjokull from Base Camp

Spectacular 2-Day Sightseeing & Northern Lights Tour of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula from Reykjavik

The Into The Glacier Experience at Langjokull from Husafell

Unique 11-Hour Glacier Hiking and Ice Cave Tour Under Katla Volcano from Reykjavik

Small-Group 3-Day Golden Circle and South Coast Tour with Glacier Hiking and Ice Caving

Fantastic 6-Day Ring Road Tour with Summer Glacier Hike and Winter Ice Caving

4 Hour Into the Glacier Experience with Glacier Hiking & Ice Caving with Transfer from Skaftafell

Brilliant 9-Hour Combo Tour with Silfra Snorkeling and the Golden Circle from Reykjavik

Spectacular 2.5 Hour Crystal Ice Caving Tour inside Vatnajokull with Transfer from Jokulsarlon

Amazing 3 Hour Snorkeling Tour in Silfra at Thingvellir National Park

Small Group 2-Day Sightseeing Tour of the South Coast of Iceland with Transfer from Reykjavik

Incredible 5.5 Hour Snorkeling in Silfra Tour at Thingvellir with Transfer from Reykjavik

Arctic adventures is located here, verified customer reviews.

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PARK GYUSEONG

금액이 다소 높은 투어였지만 그 값을 충분히 했다고 생각합니다. 설상차로 빙하를 오르면서 중간에 있는 베이스 캠프 경치도 너무 좋았고, 빙하 안에서 설명도 훌륭했습니다.

Eric Beetner

Everything in our week-long trip to Iceland was great and easy facilitated by Guide to Iceland, but this 2-day trip was the highlight. Stunning scenery, northern lights, easy transportation. And Kaspar was a GREAT guide. He immediately put everyone at ease and very quickly everyone on the bus were fast friends, which really enhanced the experience. The whole 2 days was incredible and made memories for a lifetime.

Gordon Kelly

As many others have noted, the trip was full of dramatic scenery and sights, and included an overnight in a lovely hotel with a simple restaurant serving excellent food. I would especially like to add that Sindri, the guide we had on the Arctic Adventures 2 day south coast trip, was excellent, a gifted and knowledgeable story teller, who spun colorful tales of icelandic history and folklore that made our time in the bus some of the most memorable of all the outstanding experiences this tour provided. Because of his exceptional added value, we really didn't mind that upon our arrival the ice cave tour was cancelled due to rain and flooding in the cave. (And we were also pleased that the refund through your office for this was quickly forthcoming.) An overall great job guys!

Alan Lee CS

The 3 days tour is efficient, excellent guide service and great value. But most importantly, our tour guide is entertaining personality, informative and engaging in our tour group. Shout it loud to " Thank you Mr Ronan Sir and Guide of Iceland " Good job well done Ronan !! Thumb Up.

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Top things to do in Iceland

Book your complete trip with the best companies only

Visit a Live Volcano

Visit the Blue Lagoon

Go on a Road Trip

Do the Golden Circle

See the Glacier Lagoon

South Coast Tours

Find the Northern Lights

Explore an Ice Cave

Intrepid’s Complete Guide to Iceland

Smack dab in the middle of the Atlantic sits a tiny, sparsely populated, snow-covered island that has soared to the top of the collective world travellers’ bucket list.

With so many surreal landscapes and natural wonders deeply shrouded in Viking mythology, it’s hard to know where to begin planning. And since we’ve been around the Ring Road a time or two, we’ve amassed an arsenal of assets, from travel anecdotes to packing lists to must-sees and can’t-misses that will help you decide if this Nordic nation deserves a top spot on your wishlist, too. Here’s everything you need to know before you travel to Iceland .

Table of Contents

• Iceland Experiences: Geography, Northern Lights and More
• Iceland Activities: Things to Do, Customer Stories and More
• About Iceland: Culture, History, Food and More
• Planning Your Iceland Trip: Money, Things to Know and More

Experiences in Iceland

Whether you plan on fording the fjords, tackling a glacier climb or simply bouncing between bistros in Reykjavik, Iceland has plenty of experiences to satisfy those in search of a cold-blooded adventure.

More on experiences in Iceland:

Top 12 Things to Do in Iceland

Land of Fire & Ice: Iceland Geography & Geology

Forged by intense geological activity, Iceland is a land of dramatic extremes where steaming active volcanoes, icy-blue glaciers, boiling geysers and frigid waterfalls exist side by side. Although this challenging terrain is a dream for outdoor adventurers, it might just be the country’s dozens of geothermal springs, or hot pots as the locals call ’em, that attract visitors from near and far in search of much-needed winter warm-up.

Geological marvels await:

Iceland Waterfalls Guide Photo Essay from Iceland Express Tour 6 Hot Springs in Iceland

Wonders of the World: Northern Lights in Iceland

The world’s most spectacular natural light show, the Aurora Borealis is a phenomenon that can enchant even the most seasonal affective disordered soul. The chances of spotting the ethereal lights increase in the colder months, with vibrant, dancing patterns that offer a brief respite from the long, dark nights of winter. Before your epic pursuit begins, check out our resources on the Northern Lights.

Aurora hunters assemble:

What to Expect on an Iceland Tour Northern Lights Tours

Iceland Activities

From the classic Golden Circle route to the black sand beaches of the South Coast and the otherwordly mud-scape of the steamy Blue Lagoon, Iceland’s activities are as diverse as its landscapes.

Itinerary worthy activities:

Top 6 Hikes in Iceland

Seasons in Iceland

Although you’d think Iceland’s seasons were something like ice, icier and iciest, this Arctic country does, in fact, have four distinct seasons as well as a high season and off-season for tourism. Crowds tend to be thinner in the shoulder months of May and October, and Autumn can be a particularly magical time to visit. Although days are getting drastically shorter, the windblown landscapes are speckled with red and yellow, and early sunsets will leave the scenery bathed in warm, golden light. With opportunities to go hunting for the Aurora Borealis in winter and party all night under the summer’s Midnight Sun, there really is no wrong time to visit Iceland.

Read more about Iceland’s seasons:

Iceland Winter Travel Guide

Intrepid Customer Experiences in Iceland

We like to think the landscapes speak for themselves, but occasionally, our customers have words that paint a destination perfectly. Check out what Intrepid travellers have to say about their trip to Iceland.

Hear what Intrepid customers have to say:

Iceland Travel Reviews An Intrepid Traveller Gets Married on an Iceland Trip What Happened When I Travelled to Iceland with Mum

Experience it for yourself

About Iceland

Culture & customs.

Despite living in the shadows of a long, dark winter for much of the year, Icelanders continue to find themselves at the top of the UN’s ‘World Happiness Report.’ Because when the days are short and the wind is whipping, there’s nothing like a good party to instill some cheer. Icelandic people have strong pride in their nation, and several festivals throughout the year celebrate the country’s Scandinavian heritage with an emphasis on Viking mythology. A trip to Iceland during Thorrablot or the Viking Festival will give you an insider look at this Nordic nation’s culture.

Learn to party Iceland-style:

What Festivals are Celebrated in Iceland

Folklore & History

A giant island-shaped whale that feasts on fishermen, easily offended elves with revenge fantasies, child-hungry trolls and a horse with backwards hooves luring riders to their deaths… these terrifying tales are more than just a dark and twisted parallel universe of Mother Goose; they’re instruments of survival. With such a harsh and challenging landscape, these tales that date back to the 12th century were storybook tools to teach children how to survive extreme conditions and respect Iceland’s myriad of naturally deadly environments.

The cheerful locals are more than happy to discuss the mystique surrounding elves and Yule Lads, although equally protective and willing to reroute construction projects so as not to disturb their mythical homes. Museums around the country offer further looks into the culture, history and folklore of Iceland, and no trip is complete without visiting a few must-visit mythology spots.

Take a deep dive into Iceland’s history:

Overview of Iceland’s Unique Folklore

Eating & Drinking

With more adventure activities than you can count on two hands and icy temps that threaten to freeze even the hardiest of Viking spirits, food in Iceland serves two very important purposes: to keep you fueled and warm. Boasting more sheep than people and over 5,000 km of coastline, Icelandic fare heavily features native lamb, fresh seafood and skyr, a type of yogurt that has been part of the local diet for almost a thousand years.

The capital city of Reykjavik has become a quirky culinary destination where hot dogs are essentially a food group, coffee culture is triumphant (they like it hot, strong and all day long) and seasonality is the name of the game.

Warning: don’t read on an empty stomach:

6 Things to Eat in Iceland What to Drink in Iceland

Farm towns & Cities in Iceland

Iceland’s capital city, Reykjavik, is the central hub of our dreams: quaint, quirky, entirely walkable and a great jumping-off point for exploring the island. But away from the buzz, Iceland’s rural farm towns put a positive spin on “the middle of nowhere.” Many of these “towns” are modest villages, populated with more flaxen-haired horses and flocks of puffins than actual humans and set before screensaver-worthy landscapes. If you fancy a slower pace, can never see too many waterfalls and would rather socialize with locals in a local hot spring than in a bar, Iceland is the place for you.

More on cities and towns in Iceland:

Our 5 Favorite Small Towns in Iceland Why You Should Visit the Westfjords

Planning Your Trip to Iceland

A trip to Iceland has never been easier thanks to airline stopover programs. Without any additional airfare, you can fly between major cities, making a pitstop in Reykjavik and spending up to seven days exploring the country. And because we want you to see as much of the world as possible, many Intrepid trips in Iceland have itineraries that are under 7 days, making a stopover pretty much a no-brainer. What are you waiting for?

Craft your Iceland itinerary:

5 Day Iceland Itinerary Why Iceland is perfect for Solo Travel Iceland on a Budget

Discover more on our Iceland trips

Money: What to Expect

Things you need to know.

Every traveller has probably had the same nightmare once or twice, only instead of going to school and forgetting your pants, you’re making some kind of embarrassing tourist blunder, accidentally insulting the locals or leaving something important out of your meticulously packed luggage. We’ve rounded up all the necessary “know before you go” information to help you get organized, get planning… and get better sleep.

Read up on the essentials:

Weather in Iceland Best time to Visit Iceland Will My Phone Work in Iceland Do You Need a Visa for Iceland What to Wear in Iceland Is Iceland LGBTQIA+ friendly Iceland Water Safe to Drink What to Pack for Iceland

How Does Iceland Compare

Whether you’re deadset on a trip to Iceland and looking to add on to your itinerary or you’ve already conquered the Land of Fire & Ice and you’re looking to travel someplace similar, we’ve got you covered. We’ll help you eliminate guesswork so you can spend less time comparing and more time trying to score the best flight deals.

You also might be interested in:

Iceland or Greenland

Will travel for food. From al pastor in Mexico to camel burgers in Morocco, khao soi in Thailand to perfect tomatoes in Greece, I've traveled far and wide for a tasty meal. When I'm not abroad searching for the perfect bite, I'm enjoying some good ol' home cooking in my tiny Seattle kitchen.

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Arctic Cruises & Tours

10 best arctic cruises & tours for 2024-2025, svalbard encounter expedition micro cruise, norway's fjords and arctic svalbard (northbound), svalbard odyssey, north spitsbergen explorer – polar bears , bowhead whales & more, birds, bears & belugas, discover iceland, out of the northwest passage, arctic discovery, great ice bear, ungava polar ecotour adventure, favorite arctic travel destinations.

• Northwest Passage
• Baffin Island

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• Whale watching .
• Polar Bear & Narwhal watching .
• Trekking across glaciers .
• Kayaking around towering fjords & inlets .
• Exploring icebergs up-close via zodiacs. 
• Diving in the fascinating polar waters  of Baffin Bay.
• Learning Norse & Viking history .
• Wildlife watching .
• Photography cruises .
• Stay at a wilderness lodge

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Arctic Travel Reviews & Stories

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8 Day - Ultimate Iceland Highlight Hitter

• Fully Guided
• Coach / Bus
• Hiking & Trekking
• Christmas & New Year

Places You’ll See

• Introduction
• Day 1 The Golden Circle & South Coast
• Day 2 Vík - Skaftafell - Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon - Höfn
• Day 3 East Fjords - Djupivogur - Egilsstadir
• Day 4 Studlagil, Lake Myvatn, Godafoss - Akureyri
• Day 5 Whale watching from Dalvik - Siglufjordur -Trollaskagi - Bifrost
• Day 6 West Iceland - Borgarfjörður
• Day 7 Snaefellsnes
• Day 8 Reykjavik - Highlands of Iceland

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Where You'll Stay

Customer photos.

Operated by Arctic Adventures

Arctic Adventures is a leading Icelandic tour operator with over 30 years of experience...

Sustainability Initiatives

Reduce Carbon Emissions

Animal Welfare

Supporting Destinations

Sustainability Programs

Your Peace of Mind Options

Cancellation policy.

A transparent overview of applicable fees.

Customer Reviews

• Overall Rating Excellent 4.4
• Itinerary Excellent 4.4
• Guide Excellent 4.6
• Transport Excellent 4.5
• Accommodation Excellent 4.1
• Food Good 4.0
• Tour Operator Arctic Adventures 4.5
• Most Recent
• Most Popular
• Highest First
• Lowest First

• CA Chaim · 21st August 2023 Island is beautiful and the tour was outstanding Trip date: July 2023
• ZK Zofia · 21st July 2023 Very nice You can visit and explore the whole island in 8 days Trip date: July 2023

• GL Gary · 30th June 2023 Most of the experience was up to expectations. However for 6 of 8 days there was no functional PA on the bus. I advised Arctic Adventures seeking help for our driver/ guide to fix the problem at day 4. I didn’t even get a response let alone was there... Show more Trip date: June 2023
• KC Karla · 10th January 2023 Was not aware it was a 6 day tour with 2 separate day tours added in. This may have changed my mind. I understand that some things have to be changed due to the weather but the last day I thought we would see some other things not JUST the snowmobile... Show more Trip date: December 2022
• EH Elesa · 19th December 2022 Great opportunity to experience the wonders of the Ring Road in safety and comfort. Our guide was competent in the faceb of challenging road and weathet conditions. Trip date: November 2022

Dates & Availability

Pay-by-instalments

Take advantage of our 0% interest instalment plan on selected departures. Learn More

• Upcoming departures
• August 2024
• September 2024
• October 2024
• November 2024
• December 2024
• January 2025
• February 2025
• August 2025
• September 2025
• October 2025
• November 2025
• December 2025
• Get Instant Confirmation Tuesday 11 Jun, 2024 Tuesday 18 Jun, 2024 English Filling Fast Multiple Room Types €2,537 Confirm Dates
• Get Instant Confirmation Thursday 13 Jun, 2024 Thursday 20 Jun, 2024 English Filling Fast Multiple Room Types €2,537 Confirm Dates
• Get Instant Confirmation Friday 14 Jun, 2024 Friday 21 Jun, 2024 English Filling Fast Multiple Room Types €2,537 Confirm Dates
• Get Instant Confirmation Sunday 16 Jun, 2024 Sunday 23 Jun, 2024 English Filling Fast Multiple Room Types €2,537 Confirm Dates
• Get Instant Confirmation Monday 17 Jun, 2024 Monday 24 Jun, 2024 English Almost Sold Out Multiple Room Types €2,537 Confirm Dates
• Get Instant Confirmation Tuesday 18 Jun, 2024 Tuesday 25 Jun, 2024 English Filling Fast Multiple Room Types €2,537 Confirm Dates
• Get Instant Confirmation Wednesday 19 Jun, 2024 Wednesday 26 Jun, 2024 English Filling Fast Multiple Room Types €2,537 Confirm Dates
• Thursday 20 Jun, 2024 Thursday 27 Jun, 2024 English Sold Out Based on Shared Room €2,537 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Get Instant Confirmation Friday 21 Jun, 2024 Friday 28 Jun, 2024 English Almost Sold Out Multiple Room Types €2,537 Confirm Dates
• Get Instant Confirmation Saturday 22 Jun, 2024 Saturday 29 Jun, 2024 English Almost Sold Out Multiple Room Types €2,537 Confirm Dates

Frequently Asked Questions

We are there for you! If you have any questions about this tour, then please don't hesitate to contact us 24/7 and we will get back to you latest within 2 hours!

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Good to Know

• Currency kr Iceland Krona Iceland

As a traveller from USA, Canada, England, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa you will need an adaptor for types C, E, F.

• Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
• Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
• For any tour departing before 13th July 2024 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after 13th July 2024, a minimum payment of 20% is required to confirm your booking with Arctic Adventures. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 35 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
• Some departure dates and prices may vary and Arctic Adventures will contact you with any discrepancies before your booking is confirmed.
• The following cards are accepted for "Arctic Adventures" tours: Visa, Maestro, Mastercard, American Express or PayPal. TourRadar does NOT charge you an extra fee for using any of these payment methods.
• Your money is safe with TourRadar, as we only pay the tour operator after your tour has departed.
• TourRadar is an authorised Agent of Arctic Adventures. Please familiarise yourself with the Arctic Adventures payment, cancellation and refund conditions .
• Insurance Unless otherwise mentioned, TourRadar does not provide travel insurance. We do however recommend purchasing it through our tried and trusted partner, World Travel Nomads .
• Accessibility Some tours are not suitable for mobility-restricted traveller, however, some operators may be able to accommodate special requests. For any enquiries, you can contact our customer support team , who are ready and waiting to help you.
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Protect Your Trip »

How to see the northern lights in iceland in 2024.

Increased solar activity means 2024 is a prime time to see the northern lights in Iceland.

Seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland

Tom Archer | Courtesy of Hidden Iceland

While Iceland isn't the only place in the world to view the northern lights, the Nordic country's prime location near the Arctic Circle means the light show can be visible for more than 100 nights per year. And 2024 in particular will provide prime viewing opportunities.

"Interestingly, the sun is reaching its solar maximum (increased activity that's conducive for northern lights) over the next few years, so 2024, 2025 and 2026 are prime years for getting a great light show," explains Ryan Connolly, co-founder of tour operator Hidden Iceland.

While you're never guaranteed to see the northern lights in Iceland, a little planning and forethought can pay off. Read on to discover the best time of year to visit, the most scenic places to go, unique tour options and more.

The best time to see the northern lights in Iceland

Northern lights forecast for iceland, tips for exploring on your own, the 5 best places to see the northern lights in iceland, iceland northern lights hotels, iceland northern lights tours.

Getty Images

According to the country's tourism authority, the best time to see the northern lights in Iceland is from September to mid-April, between 9 p.m. and 2 a.m. – and particularly around midnight.

Within that September to April period, there's some debate about the optimal time to see the lights. Connolly cautions against a visit between late March and mid-April as well as in early September "so you don't have to stay up too late to watch the sun set." He and other experts recommend the following timeframes:

• November to January: You're generally more likely to catch the northern lights during these darkest months. The sun barely rises around this time of the year, and the extremely long nights mean a longer window for the phenomenon to appear each day.

Spring and fall equinoxes: Although midwinter probably offers the best chance of catching the aurora, some people recommend viewing it around the spring or fall equinoxes – that is, around March 19 and Sept. 22 (these dates change slightly each year). The science behind this timing is complex: In short, there tends to be more geomagnetic disturbance around the equinoxes, leading to stronger auroras. But don't forget that the nights at these times are shorter than in midwinter, so your daily window for seeing the northern lights will also be shorter.

"We loved visiting in the fall for the opportunity to see the northern lights and for how few tourists there were," says U.S. News Travel digital producer Leilani Osmundson , who has visited Iceland in the fall. "Sometimes it felt like we had the whole country to ourselves!"

• New moons: Moonlight can make it harder to spot the light show if the aurora is already faint – so serious aurora chasers may want to plan their visit to coincide with a new moon.

During the rest of the year, Iceland experiences near-constant daylight, meaning there isn't enough darkness for the aurora borealis to appear. Put simply, if you visit in late spring or summer, you will not be able to see the lights, even if you go to the best viewing locations.

These are the most reliable resources for determining the likelihood of spotting the northern lights in the coming days:

• The Icelandic Meteorological Office: On the Icelandic Met Office's website , forecasts show the Kp index, which measures disturbances in Earth's magnetic field on a scale of zero to nine; the higher the number on the index, the stronger the aurora activity. The Met Office site also shows the cloud cover across Iceland, helping you determine whether you'll actually be able to see the lights.
• Iceland's Aurora Forecast: Iceland's Aurora Forecast , which is run by locals with expert knowledge of the aurora, offers a similar forecast on a slightly more user-friendly site.

Unfortunately, longer-range predictions (for example, weeks or months in advance) are less reliable. There are 27-day forecasts available, but take note that solar activity can occur rapidly and may not factor into such predictions. However, due to the sun's rotation cycle, if a strong aurora appears, it is considered more likely that the lights will appear again 27 days later, so this type of forecast may still be worth checking.

While it requires some extra planning, you can easily explore Iceland on your own. If you're considering this route for your trip, take these expert travel tips into account:

• Avoid chasing the lights: "Once you are in an area with clear skies, you just need to wait, grab a cup of hot chocolate, and hope for the best," Connolly says. "Driving around aimlessly rarely provides any benefits and isn't much fun."
• Manage your expectations: "The northern lights don't necessarily always appear to the naked eye as we see them in photos," Osmundson explains. "On our trip, they looked super green through the camera, but silvery and very faded to the naked eye."
• Consider a self-drive tour: Several tour companies offer customized itineraries for travelers who want to explore on their own.
• Opt for four-wheel drive: Rent a vehicle with four-wheel drive for safety and peace of mind on wintry roads.
• Heed road restrictions and conditions: Regardless of when you visit, don't go off the beaten track – off-roading is strictly illegal. You'll also want to check road conditions via the Icelandic government's official portal to avoid weather-related accidents.
• Consider travel insurance: An international travel insurance policy can provide car rental protections, medical care coverage and more.

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The most basic rule for catching the northern lights is to go somewhere dark – and with Iceland's sparse population, there's no shortage of places that fit the bill. From fjords and glaciers to mountains and black sand beaches , these are some of the most notable places to see the northern lights in Iceland.

Jökulsárlón

This glacial lagoon is adorned with icebergs, which break off from the huge Vatnajökull glacier to the north. It's also populated by crowds of seals, making Jökulsárlón a stunning place to commune with nature and a formidable backdrop for the shimmering aurora. You can also watch the light show from Diamond Beach, a black sand beach right where the lake drains into the Atlantic.

Reynisfjara and other black sand beaches

Reynisfjara, near the southern village of Vik, is a popular tourist spot, and it won't be hard to see why once you take in the basalt columns dotted along this black sand beach. You might be able to find yourself a quiet corner either here or on another stretch of shoreline nearby, and you'll be surrounded by beautiful scenery while you wait for the light show.

Be on alert around the water – you must pay attention to your surroundings on the beaches, as so-called "sneaker waves" can cause injury or death. Consider stopping off at the spectacular 200-foot high Seljalandsfoss waterfall on the way; it's about 40 miles from Vik, on the main road from Reykjavik.

Snæfellsnes peninsula

About 130 miles northwest of Reykjavik, the Snæfellsnes peninsula centers around a huge volcano called Snæfellsjökull. There's plenty of impressive places to view the lights here – consider staking out a spot near the unusually pointy Kirkjufell mountain or on Djúpalónssandur beach, with its black sand and craggy rock formations. You can stay overnight in a number of villages in the area.

Reykjanes peninsula

Reykjanes has plenty of naturally beautiful backdrops for catching the lights. Kleifarvatn, a large and tranquil lake ringed by small mountains, sits about 20 miles south of Reykjavik, while another option is Krýsuvík, a geothermal area with hot springs south of the lake.

Thingvellir

This volcanic national park is located on the rift between two continental plates. About a 30-mile drive east of Reykjavik, Thingvellir – written as Þingvellir in Icelandic – offers varied scenery from volcanoes to lakes to famous Iceland waterfalls . Take note: As part of the Golden Circle tour route, Thingvellir is a popular spot for aurora viewing, so you may not be alone.

Kristján Pétur Vilhelmsson | Courtesy of Hotel Rangá

If you're planning a self-guided visit, book an Airbnb or hotel that caters to aurora spotters. Below is a sampling of hotels that offer special viewing locations and wake-up calls if the lights appear after you go to bed.

Hotel Rangá

Tucked in a charming timber building near the south coast of Iceland , this hotel specializes in aurora viewing, with an observatory on its roof and an aurora wake-up service. The hotel also lends out snowsuits for those who want to spend time outside and boasts a 24/7 bar with hot drinks to seal the deal. Guests have praised Hotel Rangá's incredible service, calling it the kind of luxury place that's relaxing and not too formal.

The Retreat Hotel and Silica Hotel

The Blue Lagoon's geothermal waters would be a formidable place to spot the northern lights, but daytime visitors can't stay past late evening – before the aurora tends to appear. However, guests in the two on-site hotels don't have to stress about this timing. Offering ultra-chic minimalist rooms, access to private lagoons and otherworldly views, The Retreat Hotel and Silica Hotel at the Blue Lagoon resort offer a true luxury experience, with prices to match. Despite the price, guests rave about the beauty of this hotel's location and its stylish design.

Hótel Húsafell

Located on a former farm in the Icelandic wilderness, this hotel says it gets an average of three aurora sightings per week in the winter months. Hótel Húsafell also offers a complimentary aurora wake-up service so you don't miss the show. Its location near the Langjökull glacier means stellar views during the day too. Recent visitors enjoyed the range of activities on offer around the hotel in addition to the restaurant, noting that although the menu options are limited, the food is divine.

Panorama Glass Lodge

There's no need to go out in the cold to see the northern lights when you're staying in an all-glass cabin. Hot tubs and heated floors at the Panorama Glass Lodge make the views over the rocky tundra all the more cozy. Guests have plenty of compliments for this lodge's scenic setting, as well as the luxury and comfort of its one-of-a-kind design.

Hótel Búdir

A rustic building now plays host to this stylish yet homey hotel on the Snæfellsnes peninsula, with aurora wake-up calls; fine dining sourced from local purveyors; and stellar views that span glaciers, lava fields and the Atlantic. According to past guests, the old-timey charm and restaurant and bar are serious highlights at Hótel Búdir (also written Búðir).

Skálakot Manor Hotel

This luxury lodge is located on a horse farm in remote southern Iceland – the perfect place to spot the aurora. In addition to tours on horseback, the hotel offers cozy guest rooms, a fine dining restaurant and a spa. Recent visitors, many of whom visited to enjoy the resort's amenities for a day, note how stunning the location is.

Northern lights tours with a guided expert may increase your chances of spotting the natural phenomenon, but remember: Seeing the northern lights is never a sure bet, and as such, tour operators have various policies to account for this. Below are some of the best tour options.

Multiday tours

• Hidden Iceland: Hidden Iceland offers an immersive, private Must See 6+ Day Private Tour Winter Itinerary that combines daytime activities like discovering a blue ice cave with overnight stays in remote locations that are ideal for spotting the northern lights. Recent travelers praise Hidden Iceland, especially the tour guides.
• Arctic Adventures: Arctic Adventures offers a two-day tour focused on the aurora and the Snæfellsnes peninsula north of Reykjavik, including sights of waterfalls and a black sand beach. A six-day tour with Arctic Adventures explores the south of the country, including an ice cave and a black sand beach, as well as a northern lights boat excursion from Reykjavik. Take note, though, that this tour does not accept children younger than 8, while the age minimum for the two-day tour is 6 years old. The company has received generally good feedback for its organization – negative reviews tend to come from customers who didn't get to spot the aurora.
• GJ Travel: Another reliable bet is GJ Travel, which has been showing visitors around Iceland for more than 90 years. This tour operator has garnered high praise for its "jam-packed" itineraries and extremely experienced guides. GJ Travel offers multiple northern lights tours that also stop off at key sights around Iceland. Choose a five-day tour or an eight-day trip , and know that these excursions may carry up to 40 people.

Northern lights tours from Reykjavik

• Iceland Everywhere
• Reykjavik Outventure
• Special Tours
• Elding Whale Watching

For more options, check out our list of the best Iceland tours .

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, the northern lights can be visible from Reykjavík . "It's a myth that it's impossible to see them in the city," Connolly says. "If you find yourself stuck in Reykjavík each night, don't be disheartened – there are still plenty of places with wide-open views of the ocean and away from direct light, such as along the harbour downtown." Other local viewing spots include:

• Öskjuhlíð: This hill on the south side of Reykjavík offers decent views of the northern lights from the top. While you're up there, you can visit the spectacular glass-domed Perlan, a museum and restaurant offering an immersive aurora documentary in its unique planetarium, as well as spectacular views over Reykjavik. Although it's possible to see the lights from Perlan, the museum typically closes midevening, before the best viewing hours for the aurora.
• Seltjarnarnes peninsula: Located on the western edge of the city, this area's top viewing spot is the Grótta lighthouse, which provides scenic vistas of the night sky just far enough from the city lights.
• Mount Esja: If you have a car but want to stay close to the city, consider driving less than 20 miles out of toward snow-capped Mount Esja, which provides a splendid backdrop for the light show (but note that hiking on the mountain is not recommended during aurora season due to icy conditions).

Yes, though it's less likely as the Blue Lagoon typically closes in the late evening during the winter and early spring, which is often too early to see the northern lights.

Iceland's weather can be unpredictable. Because there's no easy way to plan around the changing forecasts, it's best to book a longer visit to the country. A two-day jaunt could easily be ruined by one patch of cloudy weather; if you stay on the island for a week, however, your chances of catching clear skies are much better.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Packable Jackets
• How to See the Northern Lights in Alaska
• The World's Best Places to See the Northern Lights
• The Best Travel Insurance for Europe

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Greenland Hiking Tours

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Greenland Tour: Discover the Untouched Beauty of Eastern Greenland

If you’re an adventurer seeking to explore some of the world’s most pristine natural landscapes, then Greenland is the place for you . Located in the Arctic, Greenland is the world’s largest island, offering an otherworldly blend of rugged mountains, sparkling fjords, towering glaciers, and incredible wildlife.

Greenland Wildlife and Nature

Greenland is home to some of the most spectacular wildlife in the world. In the eastern region, you can encounter polar bears, muskoxen, and arctic hares, as well as rare bird species, such as the white-tailed eagle.

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Hiking in Greenland is a breathtaking and unique experience, offering stunning views of the country's rugged terrain and spectacular natural wonders. With its vast, untouched wilderness and majestic glaciers, Greenland is a hiker's paradise . Visitors can explore the Arctic tundra, hike through valleys and canyons, and even trek across ice fields. Along the way, hikers can encounter incredible wildlife and learn about Greenland's fascinating history and culture. From the towering peaks of the country's mountain ranges to the sparkling waters of its fjords, hiking in Greenland is an unforgettable adventure that is sure to inspire and captivate nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

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The eastern region of Greenland is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore this beautiful country. This is where you’ll find the Sermilik Fjord , a stunning fjord system stretching over 150 kilometers, dotted with icebergs and offering a challenging but rewarding trekking experience.

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A Greenland tour is a journey of a lifetime , offering an unforgettable experience of untouched natural beauty. The combination of trekking, hiking, and cross-country skiing offers a unique opportunity to explore this incredible country.

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Book your Greenland tour today and experience the adventure of a lifetime. Whether you’re a trekker, hiker, or cross-country skier, Greenland offers something for everyone . With its stunning natural beauty, unique culture, and fascinating history.

Greenland is a destination that should be on every adventurer’s bucket list.

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Explore the mystifying arctic and antarctica with aurora expeditions.

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People are profoundly impacted by visiting the Arctic.

Exploring some of the most isolated corners of the world often leaves an indelible impression on travelers who develop a connection and care for these places, and it’s rare that people return without their perspectives altered. As a part of their journey to the Arctic and Antarctica with Aurora Expeditions , travelers can give back to the area they’re visiting with Aurora’s Citizen Science Program where they can share new discoveries while deepening their connection to the natural world. By taking part, travelers can provide invaluable data to the scientific community, becoming ambassadors of the planet when returning home by sharing what they’ve learned.

Howard Whelan, Expeditions Leader for Aurora Expeditions, recently offered a detailed summary of the two emotive tours.

Aurora’s Antarctic season is October to March.

What are some highlights of the Arctic and Antarctica tours?

• Aurora Expeditions is known for its adventurous itineraries to some of the most remote corners of the world, and for truly immersing travelers in these unique regions on our purpose-built small ships, which serve as our comfortable base camps for adventure. A love of place, sense of curiosity and a desire to explore have been Aurora Expeditions’ guiding principles from the start. Now, our small, purpose-built ships provide comfortable base camps deep in the heart of nature.
• During the Arctic season, June through September, we visit Iceland, a fantastic land of volcanos, puffins and whales. Svalbard, Norway’s high-latitude archipelago is home to walrus, arctic fox, reindeer and polar bears. Greenland, where the world’s second-largest ice cap sheds incomprehensible amounts of ice daily including the planet’s most beautiful icebergs, and tundra alive with musk ox, reindeer, arctic fox and hare. We visit local Inuit communities from the most remote on the east coast to the world’s northernmost capital, Nuuk, on the west coast. Our Northwest Passage trip traverses the Canadian Arctic. We’ll Zodiac-cruise below vast sea cliffs buzzing with thousands of seabirds and will constantly keep watch for polar bears. As the season winds up and night-time returns, we hope to encounter Aurora Borealis, the Northern Lights.
• Aurora’s Antarctic season, October to March, is summer when the pack ice breaks out, wildlife returns to breed and feed and the days are the longest. Aurora offers trips that range from nine to 23 days, visiting spectacular regions including the Antarctic Peninsula. Its west coast features wildlife-rich islands against a backdrop of glaciated peaks. On the east side is the Weddell Sea, a world of ice-free landscapes and massive tabular icebergs. Our Antarctic Circle trips take you below 66° 33’ South where we enjoy the midnight sun shining on ice and land few have seen.
• The sub-Antarctic islands we visit include South Georgia and the Falkland (Malvinas) Islands. The former is renowned for its whaling stations. More recently, a successful pest eradication has brought back endemic birds including a pipit and pintail, as well as king penguin colonies half-a-million strong. The latter is a surprisingly rich wildlife haven where the Falkland War was fought. Today the waters surrounding South Georgia and the Falklands are feeding grounds for humpback, orca, fin and blue whales and dolphins.
• Aurora recently announced its return to East Antarctica and the Ross Sea, south of Australia, during its 2025-26 season. Comparing these regions to the Antarctic Peninsula is like comparing the Swiss Alps to the Australian outback. While one is a chocolate box pretty, the other is vast and powerful. Both offer the thrill of landing on the Seventh Continent, and both are worth visiting.
• Travelers hoping to experience our destinations in unique ways can choose from a variety of optional activities, including sea kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving, camping on the ice and more.
• With an average of 132 passengers, our small size means we can go where larger ships cannot. We also have greater flexibility to change plans based on conditions or chance wildlife encounters, and passengers can enjoy more time exploring, whether on land or water.

Antartica remains a vast unexplored, pristine region.

Are there any physical demands that people need to be aware of when traveling to these isolated locations?

• Expedition cruising guarantees an adventure quite different from that of traditional cruise ships. The latter is typically associated with strict itineraries, plenty of time to rest and onboard activities that amuse. Expedition cruising, especially in the Arctic and Antarctica, is about embracing the unexpected and building deeper connections with the places we visit. For most people in reasonable physical condition, the demands should be well within their ability. All expeditions to these remote areas do involve moderate hiking and walking, meaning that some mobility is needed for most daily activities, however we generally offer hiking options with three levels of difficulty. For those who would prefer to opt-out of walks, we also offer plenty of scenic Zodiac-cruising excursions. Activities that require extensive activity like kayaking, paddling, snorkeling, scuba diving, etc. are optional add-ons and the level of fitness requires varies according to the activity chosen.

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The Top Cruises and Tours to Book for the 2026 Solar Eclipse

A number of travel organizations are now accepting reservations for the next big eclipse..

It's done. The much-anticipated  celestial show of the year  is officially behind us. We are, of course, talking about the total solar eclipse , which, in case you didn't hear, occurred two days ago on April 8 and had millions of Americans staring at the sky in disbelief.

So now, while we're still riding the wave of eclipse-mandated excitement, it's time to be thinking about the next one. If you were hoping it'd bless the US for the second time in a row, you'll be disappointed. The next total solar eclipse will, in fact, happen on August 12, 2026, and its path of totality will spread from the Arctic all the way down to northeastern Portugal, crossing three other countries as well, including Greenland, Iceland, and Spain. 

Stargazing fans and space enthusiasts are already excited, and the travel industry has already been in high gear organizing trips, experiences, and events that are eclipse-oriented for the big event of 2026. Pretty wild, isn't it? However, if you think about how fast  many 2024 eclipse experiences sold out, it makes sense that the travel industry is already thinking ahead. You know, to give a chance to everyone to experience the eclipse at some point .

As of right now, many tours, cruises, and experience packages for the planet's next total solar eclipse are already very much open for booking, though it may not be long before they sell out.

For those planning ahead, astronomy-focused tour company  Sirius Travel  is now accepting reservations for both its Mallorca, Spain and Iceland trips in August 2026, and they are both, of course, geared towards the eclipse. Astronomy guide website  Sky & Telescope  has already mapped out (and is accepting reservations for) an 11-day itinerary of Spain, where between one city and the other—including Barcelona, Aragon, and Madrid—guests will also be able to marvel at the gorgeous eclipse.

While a few organizations are already accepting reservations for their 2026 eclipse trips, others are still ironing out details—but general plans are already public and available. TravelQuest International, for example, has already announced plans for both  Spain and an Iceland eclipse tours, and those interested can sign up to get notified with full program details in the coming months.

If you look at the 2026 path of totality you'll also notice that a good section of it will fall on the Arctic and the Atlantic Ocean. And you know what that means—eclipse cruise trips! Princess Cruises—which  welcomed guests aboard its ships for the 2024 eclipse as well —is launching another eclipse cruise package aboard the Sky Princess for 2026, which will take guests close to Spain on the day of the eclipse. Reservations for this eclipse cruise open on May 23 on Princess Cruises' website . 

Cunard Cruises  has also announced three different eclipse trips for 2026. Guests will be able to see the eclipse from three different marvelous spots, depending on the itinerary they pick. One will take them to Norway and Iceland, while another one will have guests cruise through Spain and France. The third alternative is to hop on a ship and head towards the Western Mediterranean, and witness the total solar eclipse from there. 

Holland America Line will also be offering different eclipse-centered itineraries in 2026, but details are yet to be announced. As USA Today reports , the cruise line is planning three different sailings in Europe for the event to allow guests to be in the path of totality.

Other websites and travel organizers are offering even longer and wider trips, taking guests across multiple countries. Eclipse Traveler , for example, is offering a 15-night trip across both Portugal and Spain to ultimately witness the celestial event, while Astro Trails is willing to take space enthusiasts on a 12-day trip through both Iceland and Greenland for the occasion.

Regardless of which trip you choose to participate in, always remember to stay safe during a total solar eclipse. You can check out our handy guide on what safe and reliable eclipse glasses to buy and wear.

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