FAQ

The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, are a natural light display caused by the interaction of solar wind with the Earth's magnetic field. They appear as dancing lights in the sky, typically green but sometimes showing hues of pink, red, yellow, blue, and violet.

While we choose locations and times that maximize the likelihood of seeing the Northern Lights, they are a natural phenomenon and thus cannot be guaranteed. However, our guides are experienced in finding the best spots and times for potential sightings.

Our guided tours provide transportation to prime viewing locations, expert knowledge from experienced guides, and sometimes include additional amenities like warm drinks or photography assistance.

Your safety is our top priority. We monitor weather conditions closely, provide safety briefings, and our guides are trained in first aid and emergency procedures.

Yes! After you make your booking you will be able to access the customer portal with your booking reference code. In the customer portal you will be edit your booking, change your pick up location and sign your waiver. You can also view and sign the waiver here: Gravel Travel Activities Risk Acknowledgement Waiver 

After you make your booking you will be able to access the customer portal with your booking reference code. In the customer portal you will be edit your booking, change your pick up location and sign your waiver.

Absolutely! Feel free to contact us via phone, email, or our website's contact form for any additional questions or special requests regarding our Northern Lights tours.

Our tours are generally suitable for all ages, but some locations might require a moderate level of physical activity, such as walking on uneven terrain. Our minimum ages for Katla Ice Cave and Northern Lights Tour is 8 years old.

 Please inform us of any mobility issues or special requirements when booking and we will endeavour to accommodate you.

No, if you require a car seat for a child you need to bring your own.

Note: Per Icelandic law Children under 135 cm must use a child car seat when travelling in a car. Taller children are free to use car seats as long as the car seat is intended for children of that height and weight. Children under 150 cm must not sit in front of an active airbag. Please find more information here. 

If you are in downtown Reykjavík to avoid congestion we can only pick up up at designated bus stops. You can find your nearest bus stop here. 

When you make your booking you can see the full list of bus stops available After you make your booking you will be able to access the customer portal with your booking reference code. In the customer portal you will be edit your booking, change your pick up location and sign your waiver.


 

Departure Point
Please meet at the parking behind the Ice wear store, Austurvegur 20, 870 Vík, IS. You will find our vehicles marked with Gravel Travel and your guide will have your name. Your Guide and the truck are well marked Gravel Travel. The Guide will also call the name on the booking when checking in to the tour.

Meet Time

Please arrive at least 15 mins early to ensure you have time to park (parking is free around the departure point), use the facilities (free toilets are available in the Icewear store) and be ready for your tour.

Getting There

If you are driving to Vik (especially from a long distance) we recommend check the live updates on weather and road conditions. If there is any rain, snow, wind or Ice in the forcast or on the roads please allow AMPLE time to make your journey and allow for delays.

Dress warmly in layers, as nights can be very cold. Essential items include a winter jacket, thermal underwear, gloves, a hat, and warm boots. Don't forget your camera with a tripod for long-exposure photography.

You can find everything you need on our Amazon Storefront here: https://www.amazon.com/shop/graveltravel.is

Head to our Amazon storefront the find all the items you need! If you don´t want to buy why not rent? Head to our friends at IcelandCover for gear rental and use the promo code The affiliated code  'GravelTravel' gives your customers 10% off. to get 10% off.

1. Clothing: How to Dress for Iceland's Ever-Changing Weather

Iceland is known for its rapidly changing weather, with strong winds, sudden rain showers, and occasional sunshine—all in one day! The key to dressing for Iceland is layering, no matter the season. Below, we’ll outline what to pack for Iceland, broken down by season.

Spring (April - June)
Spring in Iceland is a transitional time, where the weather can still feel cold and wintry in the early months, but gradually becomes milder as you approach summer. Expect a mix of sunshine, rain, and occasional snow in the higher elevations.

What to Pack:
- Light to Medium Insulation: A warm fleece or insulated jacket is useful for cool days.
- Layered Clothing: Base layers, long sleeves, and light waterproof outerwear.
- Sturdy Hiking Boots: If you’re hiking or visiting Katla Ice Cave, make sure your boots are waterproof, as spring often brings muddy trails.
- Windproof and Waterproof Gear: A good-quality shell jacket and pants are essential as rain and wind are common.
- Warm Hat and Gloves: It can still be chilly, especially near glaciers or on windy days.

Bonus Tip: Spring is the start of the tourist season, so pack your gear for some flexibility as some areas (like highland roads) might still be inaccessible due to snow.

Summer (June - August)
Summer in Iceland is relatively mild, with average temperatures ranging from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 60°F), though it can feel colder with the wind. Days are long during the summer solstice, with up to 24 hours of daylight in the north. This is the best time for outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and road trips.

What to Pack:
- Light Layers: Pack t-shirts, breathable long sleeves, and light jackets. The key is to layer.
- Sunglasses: With the midnight sun, sunglasses will help you avoid glare, especially on the water or glacier.
- Rain Gear: You’ll still encounter rain, so waterproof jackets and pants are essential.
- Comfortable Hiking Shoes: Summer hikes can be long, so wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots or shoes.
- Swimwear: Iceland's geothermal pools and hot springs are a highlight, so don’t forget a swimsuit!

Bonus Tip: The summer season in Iceland is perfect for sightseeing, as most of the country's famous routes, like the Golden Circle and Ring Road, are easily accessible.

Autumn (September - November)
Autumn in Iceland is a beautiful, albeit unpredictable, season. The weather starts to get cooler, and daylight hours shorten. It’s also the beginning of Northern Lights season (late September to early April), so it’s an excellent time for those looking to catch the aurora borealis.

What to Pack:
- Warm Layers: A heavier fleece or down jacket is necessary in the evenings and early mornings.
- Waterproof Outerwear: Fall rains are common, so ensure your rain jacket and pants are durable and breathable.
- Sturdy Boots: For hiking and wet conditions, waterproof boots are essential as the trails can be muddy.
- Hat, Gloves, and Scarf: As temperatures drop, you'll need extra layers to stay warm.
- Camera Gear for the Northern Lights: If you're planning to chase the aurora, bring a tripod and camera with manual settings.

Bonus Tip: Fall is a great time for hiking and sightseeing, with fewer tourists compared to the summer months. Plus, you'll be treated to the beautiful autumn colors around the country.

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Winter (December - March)
Winter in Iceland is cold, dark, and magical. The days are short, with only a few hours of daylight, especially in December and January. Winter also brings the best conditions for seeing the Northern Lights and experiencing the country’s ice caves, glaciers, and snowy landscapes.

What to Pack:
- Heavy Insulated Layers: In addition to a thick down jacket, pack fleece or wool layers for warmth.
- Thermal Underwear: Thermal base layers are essential for staying warm, especially during outdoor activities like glacier hikes.
- Waterproof Outer Layer: You’ll want a durable, waterproof jacket and pants to protect against rain, sleet, or snow.
- Winter Boots: Insulated, waterproof boots with good traction are important for icy conditions.
- Warm Accessories: A warm hat, gloves, scarf, and thermal socks are all necessary to stay warm, especially if you’re out in the cold for long periods.
- Headlamp: Since daylight hours are so limited, a headlamp or flashlight can be helpful for exploring in the dark.

Bonus Tip: Winter is the time to see ice caves, go snowmobiling, or even take a tour to see the Northern Lights. Be sure to book tours in advance, as they can be quite popular during peak season.

To find more tips and essentials to bring on your blog head to our blog: The Ultimate Packing Guide for Iceland: What to Bring for Every Season

Have any packing tips or questions about Iceland? Contact us!

Of course you can customise any private tour! Please contact us and our expert team will help you create your perfect tour.

We aim to get you photos to you no later than 7 days after your tour. You will find your photos here: https://www.graveltravel.is/article/nl