8-Days Northern Lights Exploration Tour from Reykjavík
Overview
Available languages
192 hours
Mobile ticket
Explore the best of West and South Iceland. A bestseller with up to 98% Northern Light sightings!
Discover the Golden Circle, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, the Blue Lagoon, the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Black lava beaches. Climb a volcano, embark on a whale watching tour, stop at a shark farmer, meet Icelandic horses, see turf farmsteads and churches.
Our Northern Lights Exploration series is designed to include the highlights of Iceland and aim to maximize the chances of seeing the elusive Northern Lights, most nights are spent in the darkness away from light pollution.
Our first class experienced tour guides guide you throughout the tour and keep you informed and entertained during the included Northern Lights Academy.
There is an optional ice cave tour from mid-November to mid-March and an optional Northern Lights by boat cruise from Reykjavík.
Additional Info
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
What To Expect
Welcome to Iceland. Individual transfer by Flybus shuttle bus from Keflavik Airport to your accommodation in Reykjavík.
Accommodations
Hotel Klettur, Reykjavík
Reykjavik
Relax at your hotel or explore Iceland’s capital city on your own if time allows. The hotel is ideally located to explore the city on foot with the main shopping street, Laugavegur, just around the corner.
Reykjavik City Tour & Borgarfjordur Saga Valley.
Accommodations
Hotel Hamar, Borgarnes
Food and Drinks
BREAKFAST
Breakfast
Reykjavik
At 09:00 meet your tour guide in the hotel lobby. Enjoy the highlights of Iceland’s exciting capital.
Grabrok Crater
Get a chance to climb the Grábrók volcano crater. This 3000 years old crater is surrounded by a nicely moss covered lava field – possible to walk up to the rim of the crater (20 min) for a splendid view over the lava field and its region.
Deildartunguhver Thermal Spring
Visit Deildartunguhver. Europe’s most powerful hot spring which produces 180 liters per second of water that is nearly boiling - 97° Celsius.
Hraunfossar
Explore a multitude of natural springs under a birch covered lava field, which creates a waterfall of hundreds of meters wide, the magnificent Hraunfossar (Lava Falls), seemingly appearing out of nowhere across the bank.
Barnafoss
A few minutes’ walk up the river from Hraunfossar is the Barnafoss (Children’s Fall). It has carved out strange figures from the rock and also has it's own tragic tale.
Snæfellsnes Peninsula & Lava Cave
Accommodations
Hotel Hamar, Borgarnes
Food and Drinks
BREAKFAST
Breakfast
Kirkjufell Mountain
Jutting out into the bay rises one of the most photographed mountains in Iceland, Mt. Kirkjufell. A photo stop is of course included!
Vatnshellir Lava Cave
We take you 35 meters underground and about 200 meters into the lava tube under the glacier Snæfellsjökull!
Golden Circle, Geothermal Taste & Icelandic Horse
Accommodations
Landhotel in Hella, South Iceland
Food and Drinks
BREAKFAST
Breakfast
Thingvellir National Park
UNESCO World Heritage site since 2004. Stroll around the country’s most sacred site, home of the oldest existing national parliament in the world, the Alþingi, and major events in the history of Iceland. Thingvellir is a place of fascinating natural beauty, a spectacular geological vista, set on a vast plain flanked by large fissures, right by Iceland’s largest lake, Thingvallavatn.
Geysir
There is a variety of hot springs and bubbling pools. The original geyser is now dormant but has been replaced by Strokkur, "the Churn", which erupts at 5-10-minute intervals. The chef of the Restaurant Geysir invites you to taste freshly baked hot spring bread served with Icelandic butter, boiled eggs and herring
Gullfoss Falls
The mighty waterfall of Gullfoss - the Golden falls - perhaps the most beautiful in the country. The glacial river of Hvítá (white river) tumbles 32 meters (105 ft.) in a double cascade. On a sunny day a rainbow is very likely in the massive spray.
Fridheimar
Learn about the Icelandic horse, its unique qualities and history and visit a geothermal greenhouse.
Natural Wonders of South Iceland & Eyjafjallajökull Volcano
Accommodations
Fosshótel Núpar, Kirkjubæjarklaustur
Food and Drinks
BREAKFAST
Breakfast
Lava Centre
Lava & Volcano Exhibition Centre, a interactive high-tech exhibition where you learn about geology and active volcanoes in a very entertaining way.
Skogar Museum
Visit one of Iceland’s finest folk museums. This museum contains an outstanding collection of farm and domestic artefacts from Iceland’s past and several turf-built houses
Volcano Eyjafjallajokull
Under Eyjafjallajökull glacier is the famous volcano that erupted in the spring of 2010. Although a relatively small eruption, it cased a huge disruption to air traffic across Europe for a week.
Reynisfjara Beach
Take a stroll on the black lava beach and along bird cliffs at Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach. Interesting caves and impressive rock formations can be seen, including columnar basalt.
Skogafoss
In the small village of Skógar there is Skógafoss waterfall which is 60 meters high and is one of the most impressive waterfalls in the country
Vatnajökull National Park & Glacier including Glacial Lagoon and Diamond Beach
Accommodations
Fosshótel Núpar, Kirkjubæjarklaustur
Food and Drinks
BREAKFAST
Breakfast
Jokulsarlon
Jökulsárlón, a glacial lagoon filled with floating icebergs. Explore the amazing site and you might see seals swimming in arctic waters.
Fellsfjara
Black sandy beach, the so-called Diamond beach, across the road from Jökulsárlón. Here large icebergs from Jökulsárlón get stranded.
Hof
Photo stop by this tiny turf church at Hof. Built in 1883 and is the youngest turf church in Iceland.
Vatnajokull National Park
Europe’s largest national park. Iceland’s highest mountains, an alpine environment, and Europe’s largest glacier, Vatnajökull.
South Shore & Blue Lagoon
Accommodations
Hotel Klettur, Reykjavík
Food and Drinks
BREAKFAST
Breakfast
Vik
Visit the village of Vík where we make a photo stop. The black lava beach with high bird cliffs and pounding waves is awe-inspiring
Seljalandsfoss waterfall
A graceful ribbon-like waterfall, which drops from an overhanging lava cliff. It is possible to walk behind it, but do not expect to stay dry!
Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon is one of Iceland’s most popular attractions, a geothermal pool in the middle of a large and dramatic lava field and an oasis that owes its existence to a nearby geothermal power plant. Admission and towel included.
Departure Day - Individual transfer by Flybus shuttle from your accommodation in Reykjavik to Keflavik Airport
Food and Drinks
BREAKFAST
Breakfast
Reykjavik
Relax at your hotel or explore Iceland’s capital city on your own if time allows. The hotel is ideally located to explore the city on foot with the main shopping street, Laugavegur, just around the corner.
What‘s Included
Visit to Icelandic horse stables & geothermal greenhouse
WiFi on board
Visit to multimedia presentation at Eyjafjallajökull Volcano Information Center
Guided tour into Vatnshellir cave
Arrival & departure airport transfer by FLYBUS Plus shuttle (no guide)
7-nights accommodation in comfort tourist-class hotels including breakfast
Air-conditioned vehicle
Fully escorted 6-day bus tour with an English-speaking guide or driver-guide
Hot Spring Tasting with geothermally cooked bread and eggs
Use of winter & Northern Lights equipment: snow & ice grippers spikes for shoes and a flashlight
Parking Fees
Northern Lights Academy program with a combination of presentations, film & Northern Lights searches
Additional meals, drinks and services
Pickup points
Hotel Klettur
Mjolnisholt 12-14 Reykjavik Iceland
Options
Single Room Private
Pickup included
Twin/double Room
Pickup included
Reviews
64 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Unforgettable experience
Rheevens,,Feb 16, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Visiting Iceland for the first time completely blew me away. I’d never experienced nature on that scale before — the waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, and wide-open spaces were humbling in the best way. We were lucky to have Simone as our guide. She’s incredibly knowledgeable and genuinely passionate about the country, and her witty, caring, and straightforward style made the whole experience feel personal and relaxed. I already know I’ll be back to explore more of Iceland’s beauty, and when I do, I’ll definitely be looking for Simone again. She turned an amazing trip into an unforgettable one.
A Magical Week
144juliev,,Feb 14, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This Icelandic adventure was the trip of a lifetime. The week in Iceland was a perfect as possible. Yes, there was the stellar weather. Yes, we had a congenial group of five. But the key to the trip was our guide, Simone de Greef! Given this was my first solo trip as a recent widow, I had a great deal of apprehension. Simone, from day one, allayed those fears. She understood the times I was filled with emotion with an accomplishment or the overwhelming beauty of the country. She made certain that I was able to participate in each of our adventures - and without making a fuss. From the first climb up the crater when she was there waiting for me to the challenging ice trekking and ice cave exploration arm-in-arm, Simone made this trip possible for me. If life allows I will return to Iceland and another adventure with Simone.
Mind Blowing!
Jacqui S,,Jan 19, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We were very lucky to have had Simone as our guide and driver. She shared with us her knowledge, understanding and passion for this beautiful yet rugged place. Her concern for our safety was very reassuring - and the Sagas were a highlight. The itinerary of Iceland was perfect. Just when you think you have seen what Iceland has to offer the next day blows your mind even more. We were lucky enough to see the Northern lights all but the first night of our trip. Thank you Simone for unforgettable memories. I highly recommend GJ Travel.
GJ Travel created memories that will last a lifetime!
lindbecklilli,,Dec 22, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00i booked directly with GJ Travel because I had read so many positive comments about them on the FB group site Iceland Fire and Ice! Eldey with GJ Travel immediately answered all my email questions about booking "Northern Lights Exploration for Winter 2025/2026". She even offered to arrange a phone call, despite the time difference! The trip capacity was listed as 40 people, but we only had 5 in our group plus Eldey and Thor, our driver/guide extraordinaire! The small group was terrific, because we got to know one another and looked out for one another. I knew the minute that Thor began giving us background on what we were seeing that this was going to be a very rich adventure, because he is not just expert at handling icy, windy roads and knowledgeable about the geography and sites of Iceland! He seems to have memorized the Icelandic Sagas, providing a colorful storytelling environment to our bus ride! While he made sure that we were safe, he worked to make sure that we saw as many sites as we could despite the weather—and he even arranged additional treats for us! The hotels chosen by GJ Travel were comfortable and quiet; the service at each was fantastic and the food was delicious! Honestly, I did not want to return home! I will definitely return and only book with GJ Travel—they are the oldest travel agency in Iceland for a reason: they create memories that last a lifetime! – Lilli Lindbeck, U.S.A.
Best adventure ever.
mallieh,,Dec 5, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This was by far THE BEST tour we have ever been on from beginning to end. The van was great and comfortable. We especially appreciated the iphone charging stations while in route. Our guide Simone de Greef was amazing!!! She kept us on schedule, filled us with information and knowledge about Iceland itself and its people, shared great stories and tried to teach us a little of the Icelandic language. We did not miss a single thing. By the second day our small group was like a little family which enriched our experience even more. Iceland is a place like no other on this earth. The beauty of the landscape is beyond compare. We highly recommend GJ Travel. They live up to everything they offer and more.
Incredible Iceland, land of Lava fields n Glaciers! Stunning landscapes, wonderful people, so humble and respectful of the might
KirtiAnand,,Dec 4, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Our tour guide cum driver was like a handsome nordic god! Thor was exceptional, friendly and helpful, funny and full of anecdotes of Trols. The weather gods were kind and we had gorgeous sunny and cold weather for 5 of the 6 days on the road. Unfortunately our last experience at the Blue Lagoon was in the dark and rain so we couldn't fully admire it's special beauty The coach was very comfortable, the Bio breaks were perfectly timed and convenient. The first night itself we got to view the magical Aurora Borealis! Superb all in all
Northern Lights
thushariw2018,,Nov 26, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Bucket list item so was fortunate to see the northern lights. GJ travels has a gem in Simone. Our guide Simone was exceptional. She was all over, not sure if she even got enough sleep😀. She split herself among us so that we were all taken care of, whether spending time in the hot tub with some, then running out with others to see the northern lights, knocking on our doors to wake us up when the lights appeared, introducing us to Icelandic treats, continuously educating us on Icelandic history, culture etc. She’s a warm human being that enjoys what she does. Therefore, we felt like we were a family even though our small group of 10 were at least from three different continents. If you are from a tropical country wear extra layers and have a face covering, lots of moisturizer is needed. My face was dry and peeling. I kept myself warm with 4 layers of pants including rain pants. Five layers on top including a rain jacket that kept the wind off.. I wore wool socks but still needed two pairs to keep me comfortable.
Amazing!
marieeO7675FT,,Nov 25, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It has been lovely! Of course Iceland is an amazing country, but what made the trip so special was our guide Simone. She knows so much about this beautiful country & therefore, made everything come to life! Great viewpoints, amazing exhibitions, good food & of course, the Aurora Borealis!
Best tour ever! An experience I will never forget.
juliafF9452IO,,Nov 24, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00My 8 day Iceland tour with GJ Travel was the BEST tour I have been on. Simone, our tour guide, went above and beyond. We were all a family by the end of our tour. Northern lights, waterfalls, volcano lava tube, geyser, black sand beaches, icebergs, and ice cave were exceptional. Would definitely highly recommend.
Overall Good Experience with Great Guide
nessren13,,Oct 27, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00Overall we were quite satisfied with this tour. We booked through a third party company, but everything was run by GJ Travel once we arrived. The coach was comfortable, the tour guide and driver were great. Transfer to/from the airport was not too hard to figure out with the Flybus, as good instructions were given prior to departure. We were able to visit all locations noted in the itinerary, so I won't go into each location here, as you can read about them online. We found the descriptions to be accurate, with any exceptions noted below. Most sites were very crowded with other tourists but not so much so that they couldn't be enjoyed. We got lucky that even though our group size was fairly big, over 20 people, everyone was very respectful of each other and showed up places on time. If this wasn't the case, this tour would be much less enjoyable. Hotels were adequate although in general the beds are quite firm and they don't do top sheets, only a thick blanket, so that was tough because most rooms were really hot, even with the floor heat turned off. We had to open a window each night to sleep. Also the price of meals at the countryside hotels is astronomical. If you're on a budget, take advantage of the grocery store stops to get your own meals for a few nights. If you do eat at the hotels, there is a decent variety and the food was quite good. As vegetarians, we had no issues with food. All of the included breakfasts were buffet and completely adequate. They also need to revise the mention of a "Northern Lights Program" which was to include a five night Northern Lights Academy. We had one night of "self study" to learn how to take pictures by watching You Tube videos, and one night of a video presentation. Otherwise there was no other learning or lectures that took place. There were also no guided searches, although our tour guide did meet anyone interested in the lobby to walk outside the door and look at about 9am every night. They have a wake up call for guests, but they will only call you once a night. We had a lovely time viewing all the waterfalls, and museums, and other stops. There is a good variety and although you are on the bus a lot, they make frequent stops for restrooms, attractions, and leg stretching. You can walk a lot on this tour if you choose, which was great. Our only major complaint was the optional ice cave tour. It usually only runs from Nov-Mar but they told us it was running (in early October when we went) and it should NOT have been. Basically they took our money ($200+ per person) and only then did we find out that all the caves were flooded. So we had to walk several miles up a glacier to basically what amounted to a crack in the glacier. Several in our group, who already paid, couldn't manage the climb. It was way farther than advertised. Then once we finally got there, we had to wait over 30 minutes for other groups and by that time it was almost sunset. Once we actually got in, our guide literally yelled at people to take a picture and climb back out. So we only experienced about 5 minutes, at most, in the glacier (a crack, not even a cave) and then had to walk back down to the bus. It is advertised as a 5-15 minute hike with one hour inside the ice cave. We hiked for over an hour and spent 5 minutes inside a crack. It was a total rip-off.
From €2,640.00
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