NORTHERN LIGHTS PRIVATE TOUR: THE HUNT FOR THE AURORA.
Escape the City Lights. Chase the Green Lady. An Exclusive Nocturnal Adventure.
The most elusive magic in Iceland doesn't run on a schedule. Neither do we.
Duration
3 - 4 h
Group Size
Private, up to 8 guests
Pick-up
Your accommodation in Reykjavík
Available
September - March
Difficulty Level
Easy
Minimum age
None
Forget crowded buses. On this Private Northern Lights Tour, we become hunters. Your expert driver-guide analyzes the cloud cover and solar activity in real-time, taking you into the dark wilderness where the chances are highest.
Why CarBuddy? Your Journey, Defined by Comfort and Story.
Agile Chasing
Big buses are slow and restricted to massive parking lots. Your private vehicle is agile. We can stop at smaller, quiet viewpoints and move quickly if the weather shifts, keeping you one step ahead of the clouds and the crowds.
Smartphone Photo Pro
Don't know how to set up your camera? Your guide knows the secrets. We help you adjust your smartphone settings to capture the green ribbons even when they are faint to the naked eye.
Cozy & Intimate
Waiting for the Aurora requires patience. Instead of freezing outside, wait in the warmth of your private car with hot chocolate and Icelandic treats. Step out only when the show begins.
Experience
While we wait for the sky to dance, you stay warm in a luxury vehicle with hot chocolate and treats, far away from the crowds. And if the lights decide to hide? We offer a free re-try. Because we want you to see them as much as you do.
Into the Darkness: How We Chase the Lights
There is no fixed route for the Northern Lights. We follow the clear skies. Below is how your private hunt unfolds as we chase the best conditions of the night.
The Analysis & Escape
The Strategy – Leaving the Light Pollution Your evening begins with a weather check. Your guide reviews the cloud forecast and solar data to determine the best direction—North, South, East, or West. We pick you up and immediately leave the city glow behind, heading into the pitch-black Icelandic countryside.
The Hunt
The Hunt – Finding the Gap This is an active search. We drive to secluded spots, often unknown to mass tourism. We look for the stars. If the clouds move, we move. Your guide is in constant contact with other hunters to triangulate the best location.
The Experience
The Wait – Warmth in the Wilderness Once we find our spot, we wait. This is a time to enjoy the silence of the Arctic night. We pour hot chocolate, share stories about Icelandic folklore, and let your eyes adjust to the darkness.
The Spectacle
The Show – When Magic Happens If luck is on our side, the show begins. Whether it’s a faint green arch or a dancing violet storm, seeing the Aurora Borealis is a moment of pure awe. Your guide helps you snap the perfect photo, but reminds you to put the camera down for a moment and just watch.
Captured Moments:
When the Sky Comes Alive
Every night is different. Sometimes it’s a subtle green glow, sometimes a purple explosion. Here is what our guests have witnessed when nature decided to put on a show.
Our guests choose the private CarBuddy experience because they want Iceland to feel personal, effortless and genuinely cared for – from the first message to the last drop-off.
What is included – and what is not
Included
- Private Door-to-Door Pickup & Drop-off
- Expert "Aurora Hunter" Driver-Guide
- Hot Chocolate and Icelandic Treats
- All Fuel, Parking & Toll Fees
- Child Seats on Request
Excluded
- Lunch and Refreshments
- Warm clothing (You must bring your own layers!)
FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About the Northern Lights
What happens if we don't see the Northern Lights?
The Aurora is a natural phenomenon, and sightings can never be 100% guaranteed. However, we promise to do our absolute best to find them. If the tour goes ahead but the lights do not appear, we offer you a free re-booking (subject to availability) so you can try your luck again on another night. The tour is considered successful if the lights are visible to the naked eye.
Do you cancel the tour if the weather is bad?
Yes. We respect your time and money. If the forecast shows heavy cloud cover or unsafe road conditions (storms), we will cancel the tour before it starts and offer a full refund or reschedule. We only go out if we believe there is a realistic chance of seeing the lights.
How long is the tour?
The tour typically lasts 3 to 4 hours. Since it is a private hunt, we are flexible.
How cold will it be?
It’s Iceland in winter, so expect temperatures ranging from “chilly” to “I can’t feel my toes.” Layers are essential:
- Thermal base layers
- Insulating layers (wool or fleece)
- Waterproof outerwear
- A hat, scarf, gloves, and thick socks
If you feel like the Michelin Man, you’re dressed perfectly.
What exactly are the Northern Lights?
The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are a spectacular natural phenomenon caused by interactions between the Sun and Earth. When the Sun releases charged particles (solar wind), they travel to Earth and get caught in our planet’s magnetic field and they are funneled toward the poles, where the magnetic field is weaker. These particles collide with gases in the upper atmosphere – like oxygen and nitrogen – creating beautiful glowing lights. The process is similar to what happens in neon signs – but on a massive scale and with way cooler colors!
What are my chances of seeing the Northern Lights?
It depends on several factors:
- Solar activity: The sun needs to send out a good dose of particles, and this is measured using the “KP index” (on a scale of 0–9). A KP index of 3 or higher increases the likelihood of auroras being visible, but even with lower KP levels, they can appear closer to the poles or under clear skies. We also monitor Bz values — a negative Bz (a southward-pointing magnetic field) enhances the chance of auroras forming. So, we’re not just KP-watching; we’re diving deeper into solar physics.
- Clear skies: No clouds, no obstructions. I keep an eye on cloud forecasts to take you to the clearest locations.
- Darkness: The darker the area, the better the visibility. That’s why we avoid cities and towns with light pollution.
Even if all the conditions are perfect, remember that nature is unpredictable. But hey, that’s what makes seeing the lights so magical!
What time is best for seeing the Northern Lights?
The lights are most active between 9 PM and 2 AM, but they can appear earlier or later.
Can I see the Northern Lights in summer?
Nope! Icelandic summers are all about endless daylight (literally). The lights only come out to play when the nights are long and dark, from late August to mid-April.
Do I need special glasses to see them?
Nope, this isn’t a 3D movie! Just use your eyes (and maybe a bit of patience). No special equipment required, unless you want binoculars for an extra up-close experience.
What colors will the Northern Lights be?
The colors depend on the type of gas the particles collide with and the altitude:
- Green: The most common color, caused by oxygen at about 100 km (62 miles) altitude.
- Red: Rare, caused by oxygen higher in the atmosphere (over 200 km/124 miles).
- Purple and Pink: Caused by nitrogen, often on the edges of the aurora.
Think of it as nature’s chemistry lesson in action—but way more exciting than high school science class!
Can I take pictures with my phone?
Yes, but your phone needs a night photography mode (most newer models have it). For the best results:
- Use a tripod or rest your phone on something steady.
- Turn off the flash.
- Set the exposure time longer (4–10 seconds works well).
If you don’t get the perfect shot, don’t worry – we will help you capture the moment, and you can still enjoy the show with your own eyes.
Why are the Northern Lights stronger in Iceland?
Iceland is perfectly positioned under the Auroral Oval, a zone near the poles where auroras are most active. Add to that Iceland’s dark skies, minimal light pollution, and clear views, and you’ve got one of the best spots on Earth to see the lights. Basically, it’s like having front-row seats to nature’s greatest show.
How long do the Northern Lights last?
They can dance across the sky for a few minutes or stay for hours. Sometimes it’s a quick “Hi, bye!” and other times it’s a full performance.
Do the Northern Lights make noise?
Some people claim to hear faint crackling or popping sounds, but this is still debated scientifically. Theoretically, the sounds could be caused by electrical discharges in the atmosphere, but no solid proof exists. So, if you hear something, congrats – you might have tuned into the auroral FM channel!
Is it worth it if the sky is cloudy?
Clouds can block the view, but Iceland’s weather is famously unpredictable. Often, we can drive to a clearer spot. Even if it’s partly cloudy, the aurora’s glow can shine through thin layers of cloud. Plus, exploring Iceland at night is an adventure on its own.
What causes the lights to “dance”?
The “dancing” effect is caused by changes in the solar wind’s speed and direction. When the solar particles hit the atmosphere at varying intensities, the lights move and shimmer. It’s like the sky is having its own rave party!
Why do some people call it Aurora Borealis?
The name comes from ancient mythology and science:
- Aurora: The Roman goddess of dawn.
- Borealis: The Greek word for “northern.”
Together, it means “Northern Dawn.” Poetic, isn’t it?
Are the Northern Lights dangerous?
Not at all! The aurora happens high above Earth’s surface, so you’re perfectly safe. The only danger is staying outside too long without proper clothing – so bundle up!
Do animals react to the Northern Lights?
There’s no strong evidence that animals react to the aurora, but some myths say reindeer and foxes were mesmerized by the lights. Maybe they’re just enjoying the show like we do!
Cancellation policy
Cancellation policy
Cancellation policy – simple and fair
Travel plans can change – and that’s okay. Here’s how cancellations work for this tour:
If you booked directly with CarBuddy (our website, email, or via our team):
48+ hours before your tour starts
You can cancel in writing (for example by email to contact@carbuddy.is).
We refund the amount you paid to CarBuddy minus non-refundable payment and banking fees (card and currency conversion fees), currently around 3% of the total.Less than 48 hours before your tour
The full amount is charged (100% cancellation fee), as your vehicle and driver have been reserved just for you.
All cancellations must be sent in writing and confirmed by us in writing to be valid.
If CarBuddy has to cancel your tour because of weather, road conditions or safety/operational reasons, you can either:
move your booking to another suitable date/service (if available), or
receive a refund of the tour price paid to CarBuddy, minus the same non-refundable card/processing fees (currently around 3%).
If you booked through an Online Travel Agency or booking platform (for example Viator, GetYourGuide, TourDesk, or via a Bókun booking widget on our website), you can usually manage and cancel your booking directly through that platform using the link in your confirmation email. In that case, the platform’s own cancellation and refund rules apply, as shown in your booking confirmation.
Ready to Book Your Icelandic Private Adventure?
Relax. Explore. Repeat. With CarBuddy.
Stuck or unsure? Contact us!
Whether you’re already here or still mapping things out, we’re here to help you make the most of your time in Iceland. From reliable transfers to breathtaking tours, our team is ready to make your journey easier. Got a question? Need advice? Just contact us – we’ll sort it out.
- contact@carbuddy.is
- Reykjavík, Iceland
- (354) 781-7244