Iceland is a land where nature performs on a grand scale. Towering waterfalls, fiery volcanoes, glaciers, and rugged coastlines are only part of the story. For many visitors, the highlight is twofold: witnessing the mesmerizing Northern Lights and experiencing Iceland’s diverse wildlife. The Northern Lights and wildlife tour in Iceland is designed for travelers who want to combine the magical glow of the aurora borealis with encounters with whales, puffins, seals, reindeer, and birdlife. This combination provides an unforgettable journey that connects you deeply with both the skies and the land.
Many Northern Lights Tours in Iceland focus solely on the aurora experience, while wildlife tours highlight the country’s unique ecosystems. This combined tour gives you the best of both worlds. During the day, you’ll encounter whales off the coast, explore bird cliffs teeming with puffins, or watch reindeer grazing in the wilderness. At night, you’ll chase the aurora borealis under clear, dark skies. This blend of natural wonders ensures your Iceland trip is full of variety, excitement, and lasting memories ..
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Arrive at Keflavik International Airport and transfer to Reykjavik. Spend the afternoon exploring the capital city with its lively harbor, Hallgrímskirkja church, and Harpa Concert Hall. In the evening, head out on your first Northern Lights excursion. Experienced guides use aurora forecasts to find the best locations for viewing, giving you your first taste of Iceland’s night sky magic.
Depart Reykjavik’s Old Harbor for a whale-watching tour. Depending on the season, you may see humpback whales breaching, pods of dolphins racing alongside the boat, or even orcas patrolling the waters. The cool North Atlantic is home to diverse marine life, and sightings are frequent. After returning to Reykjavik, enjoy a traditional Icelandic dinner before setting out on another aurora hunt.
Today’s journey takes you along the South Coast. Visit Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, Reynisfjara black sand beach, and the Dyrhólaey cliffs, which are home to nesting puffins in summer. Seals are often spotted along this stretch of coast. In the evening, you’ll continue to your countryside accommodation, where dark skies offer prime aurora-viewing conditions.
Head east to Jokulsarlon, Iceland’s famous glacier lagoon, where icebergs drift toward the Atlantic. Seals often rest on the icebergs or swim nearby, providing fantastic photo opportunities. Walk along Diamond Beach, where ice chunks wash ashore, glistening like crystals on the black sand. After a day filled with natural beauty, you’ll enjoy another chance to witness the Northern Lights far from city lights.
If your tour continues to the Eastfjords, you may encounter Iceland’s wild reindeer herds grazing in the open landscapes. These animals are not found elsewhere in the country, making them a special sight. The Eastfjords are also home to a wide variety of seabirds and offer quieter, less crowded experiences. Evenings here are often some of the best for aurora viewing due to low light pollution.
Make your way back toward Reykjavik, stopping at scenic locations along the way. Depending on your schedule, you may enjoy another evening tour to catch the Northern Lights one last time. Many travelers choose to end their trip with a visit to the Blue Lagoon, soaking in the geothermal waters while reflecting on days filled with both wildlife and auroras.
The best time for this combined tour is from September through April, when the aurora is visible. Wildlife sightings vary with the season. Whale watching is excellent from April to October, with summer offering the most sightings. Puffins nest from May to August, so if puffins are a priority, consider a late summer or early autumn trip when there’s overlap with aurora season. Seals, reindeer, and other animals can often be spotted year-round.
The Northern Lights and wildlife tour offers a rare opportunity to experience Iceland’s most iconic natural wonders in one journey. You won’t just see the aurora—you’ll also connect with the animals that call Iceland home. Each day is filled with discovery, whether it’s watching a whale breach against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains or spotting seals on an iceberg-strewn lagoon. Each night is filled with anticipation as you look to the skies for the aurora’s dance. This balance of earth and sky creates a complete and deeply rewarding adventure.
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You may see whales, dolphins, puffins, seals, reindeer, Arctic foxes, and many seabird species depending on the season and region visited.
The best time is September to April for aurora viewing. Wildlife varies—puffins are seen in summer, while whales are common from spring to autumn.
Yes, many tours include daytime whale watching trips followed by evening Northern Lights excursions, giving you both sea life and aurora experiences in one trip.
No, wildlife is unpredictable, but Iceland’s waters and landscapes are rich in animals, and expert guides maximize your chances of sightings.
Yes, wildlife tours and Northern Lights excursions are suitable for families, though children should be prepared for outdoor conditions and boat travel.
If you want a tour that combines Iceland’s most magical experiences, the Northern Lights and wildlife package is ideal. It allows you to embrace the wild beauty of Iceland, from the depths of the sea to the heights of the night sky. Whether you’re photographing puffins on the cliffs, marveling at whales in the fjords, or standing in awe beneath the aurora borealis, you’ll leave Iceland with a heart full of wonder and memories that will last a lifetime.
See what makes our Iceland trips special with testimonies from our lovely customers.
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