Hvolsvollur Northern Lights Hunt: A Candid Review

Alright, so you’re thinking about chasing the Northern Lights from Hvolsvollur, right? Maybe you’ve seen those postcard-perfect photos of the Aurora Borealis shimmering over Iceland and thought, “I want that!” Well, I’ve actually been there, tried that, and I’m here to give you the lowdown on one option: the Hvolsvollur Northern Lights Hunt Guided Tour. It’s almost like being promised a front-row seat to the greatest light show ever. But how good is it? Is it truly magical, or more like… mildly twinkly? Stick with me, and I’ll share all the details from my own experience, which should allow you to decide if this tour is the real deal for you.

What to Actually Expect From This Tour

Basically, the Hvolsvollur Northern Lights Hunt isn’t just about pointing your camera at the sky and hoping for the best. The company advertises itself on making the experience easier to witness the phenomena. So, what does that actually involve? I found that they take you away from the town’s light pollution, hunting down those elusive auroras. From my view, they also consider weather patterns too.

The tours tend to run during the prime Northern Lights season – think late autumn through winter. The weather’s colder and the nights are longer, making them better viewing times. Before booking, just make sure that the tour operator actually monitors the aurora forecast and the cloud cover in nearby areas. When I went, the tour guide told me that we were prepared to drive quite far, if necessary, to find a patch of clear sky. This meant that it’s also important for people taking the tour to dress super warmly (more on that later). Another thing I noticed, that maybe others won’t think to research, is the tour length. The tour company explained they range anywhere from three to five hours, as I was saying this allows for maximum flexibility in finding the lights.

The Guide Matters: What To Expect From The Tour Leader

Honestly, that is perhaps the most critical aspect of any Northern Lights tour. It’s not enough that the sky be be full of auroras. A decent tour can even find some fun while the conditions are unfavorable! In my experience, the guide can either make or really break your experience. With luck, you’ll end up with someone who’s truly passionate about the aurora, and really knowledgeable about the science that happens behind them. So, what did the tour guide provide? The better tours should give you tips on how to actually photograph the lights, telling you camera settings and composition ideas.

Our guide basically turned into an entertaining teacher who also really wanted everyone to see the Northern Lights. Beyond practical assistance, the guide brings the story telling. I noticed that many share some local folklore and stories connected with the Aurora Borealis. Many believe, like our guide suggested, that the lights aren’t just a science-y spectacle, yet hold some deep cultural significance. A fun tour guide usually ends up contributing a lot of knowledge, experience, and personality. Make sure to review the reviews before you decide, so too will you see if past riders felt the guide added to the trip.

Gear Up: Dressing the Part For the Arctic Chill

This isn’t me just preaching, you guys. I learned from a bad experience! One time, while in Iceland, I was wearing a single pair of waterproof shoes, so naturally they eventually turned into a block of ice, so that ended my enjoyment of the viewing. Since these tours often happen in the dead of night, and during winter, temperatures could definitely drop below freezing. The tour company probably can’t provide it (ours didn’t, anyway), you basically need to bring your cold weather arsenal.

My suggestion is thermal layers – start with a moisture-wicking base layer, like the merino wool or synthetic fabrics. Top that with fleece or wool sweaters for insulation. The next most critical part of the experience, after the aurora and the tour, is your outerwear. You need a waterproof and windproof winter jacket and pants. It will almost seem silly to overprepare for your viewing, but really this one thing could destroy an otherwise fun experience.

Also important are accessories. Warm socks (wool or synthetic) paired with insulated, waterproof boots are basically crucial. Beanies, gloves, and scarves are almost givens, really.

Capturing the Lights: Camera Settings and Tripod Tricks

Now, what if you hope to come away with pictures from this adventure? Smart move. Snapping great shots of the Northern Lights actually require something beyond the iPhone, maybe like an investment. While phone cameras have definitely gotten better, they typically struggle in really low light conditions. I was able to get some grainy shots on my device, yet those using advanced equipment seemed to have better chances of taking share-worthy shots. My experience told me a DSLR or mirrorless camera with manual settings and a wide-angle lens (something around 14-24mm with a low aperture like f/2.8) is really preferred.

You will need a good tripod. Without that, long exposure shots simply won’t work, since even the steadiest hands will shake over that amount of time. Consider the proper camera settings to get it just right. Use manual mode and also start with these settings for the ISO range to get the shot you’re hoping for: Set your aperture wide open (f/2.8 or lower), begin with an ISO of 800-1600 and modify as necessary, and set the shutter speed. Your exposure time may just range from a few seconds to, say, 15-30 seconds based on the lights’ intensity. Test with the settings to make sure it’s just right!

Is This Tour Right for You, Like Your Situation?

The Hvolsvollur Northern Lights Hunt really makes sense for several types of travelers. The first type is really anyone with a tighter schedule who is traveling and wishes to see as many attractions as they are able. With it only taking part of one evening, they could view Iceland’s aurora and still tick some boxes.

Another great candidate for this adventure might be the solo traveler who really wants safety in numbers. By riding on an aurora viewing, this avoids them traveling on treacherous ice roads that may require 4-wheel drive. As you can see, it would seem that it’s a tour that does, typically, work for someone!

Now, after going on this trip, I came away with some lasting suggestions to give anyone hoping to find the Aurora Borealis in Iceland:

Consider booking early: These tours can book up very fast, especially during peak season (winter). Book your spot well in advance.
Monitor weather and aurora forecasts: You’ll know what is happening when you are getting there, that too gives you confidence. Keep a watchful eye on both the cloud cover and aurora activity forecast so that way you know of your chances ahead.
Check reviews and tour details: You really should spend the time to read feedback from people and confirm trip details like trip length and cancellation policies.

Hopefully my breakdown will allow you to make the best option for you, and maybe even assist with having a great and informed viewing!

#NorthernLights #Iceland #Hvolsvollur #TravelReview #AuroraBorealis