Black volcanic rock beach with crashing waves and sea stacks in Iceland
White and brown ptarmigan bird perched on rocky terrain in Iceland
Partially frozen waterfall with rushing water and snow-covered rocks in Iceland winter landscape
Gullfoss waterfall in Iceland covered in snow and ice during winter, viewed from above
Tomato plants with ripe red and unripe green tomatoes growing on vines in a greenhouse
Moss-covered lava fields with patches of snow under a clear sky in Iceland
Two people playing on frozen lake at golden sunset during Iceland winter adventure
Skógafoss waterfall cascading over rocky cliffs in Iceland during winter with snow and mist
Geysir hot spring erupting with steaming blue water dome in Iceland
Icy moonlit road winding through snowy Icelandic highlands at night
Winding road through snow-covered Icelandic landscape with dramatic mountains in winter

Reykjavik, Iceland

Full-Day Iceland Tours: 5-Day Northern Lights Adventure

5 daysMin 1 guests
Duration5 Days
Group SizeSmall Group
Starts AtKeflavik Airport, Iceland
LanguagesEnglish
Winter Short Break

Land of Northern Lights: 5-Day Iceland Winter Tour

Discover volcanic landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and the aurora borealis across Southwest Iceland.


This 5-day Iceland Northern Lights tour takes travelers through the most iconic corners of Southwest Iceland, from the geothermal wonders of the Reykjanes Peninsula to the black sand beaches of the South Coast. With two nights in Reykjavik and two nights in rural Hella, the itinerary balances city discovery with wide-open countryside well-suited for aurora spotting. The package is designed to deliver genuine value without compromising on the breadth of experiences covered.

Iceland's South Coast serves as a natural stage for some of the country's most dramatic scenery. The route passes beneath the Eyjafjallajokull volcano, alongside towering waterfalls at Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss, and across the windswept lava fields that define this part of the island. Each stop is chosen for its geological or cultural significance, giving travelers a layered understanding of Iceland's character.

The Golden Circle remains one of Iceland's most celebrated driving routes, and this tour dedicates a full day to its highlights. From the erupting geysers at the Geysir geothermal area to the thundering double cascade of Gullfoss and the ancient parliamentary grounds at Thingvellir, the day covers landmarks that shaped both Iceland's landscape and its history.

Evening presentations by the tour guide prepare the group for Northern Lights viewing, explaining the science behind the aurora and the best conditions for sighting it. On clear nights, the dark rural skies around Hella offer a strong chance of witnessing the lights, and an optional Northern Lights evening cruise from Reykjavik is available on the final evening if conditions allow.

Tour Highlights

Two dedicated nights in South Iceland with guided Northern Lights viewing sessions and expert aurora presentations.

A guided soak in the famous Blue Lagoon geothermal spa on the Reykjanes Peninsula.

Visits to both Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss, two of Iceland's most photographed waterfalls.

An optional glacier hike on the Solheimajokull glacier tongue for those seeking an active adventure.

A guided tour of Reykjavik's capital highlights combined with a full day on the legendary Golden Circle route.

A walk on the striking Black Lava Beach at Reynisfjara, with views of the Reynisdrangar sea stacks.

Exploration of Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and seat of the ancient Viking Parliament.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

1
Arrival in Reykjavik

Transfer from Keflavik Airport to your Reykjavik accommodation by Flybus shuttle. The remainder of the day is free to explore the capital at your own pace.

2
Reykjavik City Tour, Reykjanes Peninsula and Blue Lagoon

A guided morning tour covers the highlights of Reykjavik before the group heads to the Reykjanes Peninsula, visiting hot springs, bird cliffs, and fishing villages. The afternoon is spent at the Blue Lagoon. The group then travels south to Hella, where an evening Northern Lights presentation takes place.

3
South Coast: Waterfalls, Volcanoes and Black Sand Beach

The day follows the South Coast beneath Eyjafjallajokull, stopping at Seljalandsfoss, the Skogar Folk Museum, and Skogafoss waterfall. In the afternoon, travelers can join an optional glacier hike on Solheimajokull, or continue to the Black Lava Beach at Reynisfjara, Dyrhólaey Cape, and the village of Vik.

4
Golden Circle and Return to Reykjavik

The morning begins with a visit to an Icelandic horse farm and a geothermal greenhouse. The group then travels the Golden Circle, taking in the Geysir geothermal fields, Gullfoss waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park before returning to Reykjavik. An optional Northern Lights cruise is available in the evening.

5
Departure from Keflavik Airport

After breakfast, an individual Flybus transfer returns travelers to Keflavik International Airport. No further activities are scheduled on this day.

What Is Included

Included

  • Flybus shuttle transfers between Keflavik Airport and Reykjavik accommodation
  • 4 nights accommodation (2 in Reykjavik, 2 in Hella)
  • Breakfast on Days 2, 3, 4 and 5
  • Blue Lagoon admission
  • Guided Reykjavik city tour
  • Guided Golden Circle tour
  • South Coast guided excursion
  • Northern Lights evening presentations
  • Skogar Folk Museum visit

Not Included

  • Flights to and from Iceland
  • Lunch and dinner on all days
  • Optional glacier hike on Solheimajokull
  • Optional Northern Lights evening cruise
  • Personal travel insurance
  • Gratuities for guides
  • Any personal expenses

Important Information

This tour operates in winter conditions. Travelers should dress in warm, layered clothing and wear waterproof footwear. Weather in Iceland can change rapidly, and some outdoor activities may be affected by conditions on the day.
Duration
5 days / 4 nights. The tour begins with arrival at Keflavik Airport and concludes with departure from the same airport on Day 5.
Meeting Point
Keflavik International Airport, Iceland. Flybus transfers are arranged individually and do not require meeting the group on arrival.
What to Bring
Warm, waterproof outerwear, thermal base layers, sturdy waterproof boots, gloves, and a hat. A swimsuit and towel are needed for the Blue Lagoon.
Cancellation
Cancellation terms are set by the tour operator GJ Travel. Travelers are advised to review the booking conditions at the time of reservation and to hold appropriate travel insurance.
Accessibility
This tour is rated Very Easy for general travel, though some outdoor sites involve uneven terrain. The optional glacier hike and lava beach walks require a reasonable level of mobility.
Age Range
This tour is suitable for most ages. Participants wishing to join the optional glacier hike should be in good physical health and check age or fitness requirements when booking that activity separately.

Ready to Chase the Northern Lights?

Secure your place on this 5-day Iceland winter tour and experience the aurora, volcanoes, waterfalls, and geothermal landscapes of the North Atlantic's most compelling island.

Book Now

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Northern Lights sighting guaranteed on this tour?▼
No tour operator can guarantee Northern Lights sightings, as the aurora depends on solar activity and clear skies. This itinerary is structured to maximize opportunities, with two nights in rural South Iceland where light pollution is minimal, plus an optional Northern Lights cruise on the final evening.
What is the difference between the standard and comfort accommodation options?▼
In Reykjavik, the standard option is Hotel Cabin with rooms of approximately 10 square meters, while the comfort upgrade places guests at Hotel Klettur. In Hella, the standard option is Arhus Cottages and the comfort upgrade is the Stracta Hotel with studio rooms.
How do I book the optional glacier hike?▼
The glacier hike on Solheimajokull can be booked online through GJ Travel or by contacting them directly via email. It is subject to availability and should be arranged in advance of the tour departure.
Are meals included throughout the tour?▼
Breakfast is included on Days 2, 3, 4, and 5. Lunch and dinner on all days are at the traveler's own expense, giving flexibility to choose restaurants and cafes independently.
Does the tour include airport transfers?▼
Yes, Flybus shuttle transfers between Keflavik International Airport and Reykjavik accommodation are included on both the arrival and departure days. These are individual transfers, not group pickups.
What is the distance covered during the tour?▼
The tour covers approximately 730 kilometers in total across the five days, traveling between Reykjavik, the Reykjanes Peninsula, the South Coast, and the Golden Circle route.
Iceland Winter TourNorthern LightsReykjavikGolden CircleSouth Coast IcelandBlue LagoonGlacier HikeAurora BorealisThingvellirGullfossSmall Group TourBudget Iceland Holiday
Last updated: 2025-07-14 | Product ID: iceland-northern-lights-5days

Activity

Availability

You can book up to the start time, as long as there are places remaining. Book now to guarantee your spot.

Additional Information

Physical: Wheelchair Not accessible

Duration

5 days

Languages

English - Speaking Guide

Additional Information

Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.

Cancellation Policy

Select Date

Meeting Point

Complete Operator information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, are included on your Confirmation Voucher. Our Product Managers select only the most experienced and reliable operators in each destination, removing the guesswork for you, and ensuring your peace of mind.

Activity Site

Complete Operator information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, are included on your Confirmation Voucher. Our Product Managers select only the most experienced and reliable operators in each destination, removing the guesswork for you, and ensuring your peace of mind.

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