Northern lights dancing over snow-covered mountains near Akureyri with town lights below
Steaming geothermal lagoon at golden sunset with silhouetted trees and bathers near Akureyri Forest Lagoon
Northern lights aurora borealis arching over snow-capped mountain near Akureyri, Iceland at night
Steaming geothermal lagoon at golden sunset with mountain and fjord views at Forest Lagoon Akureyri
Turquoise geothermal infinity pool at Forest Lagoon Akureyri with snow-capped mountains and wooden spa building

Northern Lights Guided Tour from Akureyri – Forest Lagoon

4 hours and 30 minutesMin 1 guests
Duration4 hours 30 minutes
Group SizeSmall Group
Starts AtAkureyri, North Iceland
LanguagesEnglish
North Iceland Winter Experience

Forest Lagoon and Northern Lights Tour from Akureyri

Soak in geothermal waters, then chase the aurora across the dark skies of North Iceland.


This evening adventure combines the restorative warmth of the Forest Lagoon Northern Lights experience with an expert-guided hunt for the aurora borealis in the expansive wilderness outside Akureyri. Two of Iceland's most compelling winter attractions are brought together in a single, well-paced outing designed for travelers who want depth without exhaustion.

The evening begins at Forest Lagoon, a geothermal spa set among the trees on the hillside above Akureyri. The mineral-rich pools offer warmth and sweeping views across the fjord, creating an ideal way to ease into the night before the real adventure begins.

After the lagoon, your guide consults real-time weather data and aurora forecasts to select the most promising location for the night. Destinations shift according to conditions and may include a quiet fjord, an open valley, or a remote mountainside where light pollution is minimal.

North Iceland's geography works in your favor here. The region sits at a high latitude, benefits from relatively stable winter weather windows, and offers landscapes that make the journey worthwhile even on nights when the aurora remains elusive.

Tour Highlights

Relax in the geothermal pools of Forest Lagoon with panoramic views over the Eyjafjord.

Expert guides use live aurora and weather data to find the best viewing spot each night.

North Iceland's dark winter skies provide ideal conditions for aurora observation.

Dynamic routing means your group travels to wherever conditions are most favorable that evening.

Surrounding winter landscapes of fjords, valleys, and mountains create a striking backdrop throughout the night.

Small group format allows for a more personal and attentive experience on both parts of the tour.

How the Evening Unfolds

1
Departure from Akureyri

The tour departs from a central meeting point in Akureyri. Transport to Forest Lagoon is included, and the drive offers early views of the town and fjord as darkness settles in.

2
Forest Lagoon Soak

Arrive at Forest Lagoon, nestled in the forest above Akureyri, and spend time relaxing in the heated geothermal pools. The site blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings and offers views across the Eyjafjord.

3
Guide Selects the Night's Location

While you unwind, your guide monitors aurora forecasts and sky conditions. By the time the group is ready to move, a location has been identified for the best possible viewing prospects.

4
Northern Lights Hunt

Travel into the dark landscapes of North Iceland to your chosen viewing site. The guide provides information about the aurora and helps position the group for optimal sightlines and photography.

5
Return to Akureyri

After the observation period, the group returns to the meeting point in Akureyri. Total time from start to finish is approximately four and a half hours.

What Is Included

Included

  • Forest Lagoon admission and use of facilities
  • Transportation from and back to Akureyri
  • Expert local guide throughout the evening
  • Aurora hunting with dynamic location selection
  • Use of towels at Forest Lagoon

Not Included

  • Food and beverages at Forest Lagoon
  • Personal spending and gratuities
  • Travel insurance
  • Aurora sighting is not guaranteed

Important Information

The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon. Sightings cannot be guaranteed regardless of conditions. The experience is designed to maximize your chances, but outcomes depend on solar and atmospheric activity.
Duration
Approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes from departure to return in Akureyri.
Meeting Point
Departure is from a central location in Akureyri, North Iceland. Confirm the exact pickup point at time of booking.
What to Bring
Warm, layered clothing suitable for cold outdoor conditions, sturdy footwear, swimwear and a towel for the lagoon (towels are also provided), and a camera if you wish to photograph the aurora.
Cancellation
Please review the cancellation policy at the time of booking. Weather-related decisions are at the discretion of the operator.
Accessibility
This tour is rated Easy. The activity involves minimal physical exertion. Guests with mobility concerns should contact the operator in advance to discuss suitability.
Age Range
Suitable for most ages. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Check age-specific requirements with the operator at time of booking.

Reserve Your Spot

Places on this tour are limited and in high demand during the peak winter aurora season. Secure your evening at the Forest Lagoon and Northern Lights tour before availability closes.

Book Now

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Northern Lights sighting guaranteed on this tour?▼
No, aurora sightings cannot be guaranteed as the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon dependent on solar activity and atmospheric conditions. The guide works to maximize the chance of a sighting by selecting the most favorable location each night.
What is Forest Lagoon and what should I expect there?▼
Forest Lagoon is a geothermal spa situated in the forest above Akureyri, offering heated mineral-rich pools and views across the Eyjafjord. Towels are provided, and guests should bring or wear their swimwear.
Where will the Northern Lights viewing take place?▼
The exact location is determined on the evening of the tour based on weather patterns and aurora forecasts. Destinations may include fjords, valleys, or mountainside spots chosen for minimal light pollution and clear skies.
What should I wear for the tour?▼
Warm, layered clothing and sturdy waterproof footwear are recommended for the outdoor aurora portion of the tour. Swimwear is needed for the Forest Lagoon, and towels are provided at the spa.
Is transportation from Akureyri included in the tour?▼
Yes, transportation from and back to a central meeting point in Akureyri is included in the tour price.
When is the best time of year to take this tour?▼
This is a winter tour designed for the aurora season, when long nights and dark skies in North Iceland create the most favorable conditions for viewing the Northern Lights.
Northern LightsForest LagoonAkureyriNorth IcelandGeothermal SpaAurora BorealisWinter TourIceland Night TourSmall GroupEasy TourAurora HuntingIceland Winter
Last updated: 2025-01-30 | Product ID: forest-lagoon-northern-lights-akureyri

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

4 hours and 30 minutes

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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