Ultimate Iceland Photography Tour: 6-Day Northern Lights & Highlands Itinerary
A six-day private circuit of Iceland built for photographers: geothermal fields, basalt cliffs, glacier lagoons and the chance to chase the Northern Lights from a 4x4. This guided itinerary balances curated photo opportunities with off-the-road exploration.
The Experience
Before You Go
Layer for sudden weather shifts
Temperatures and wind can change within an hour—pack breathable base layers, an insulating mid-layer and a waterproof shell.
Bring a sturdy tripod
Long exposures for auroras and glacier lagoons require a rigid tripod and a remote shutter release to avoid camera shake.
Respect fragile moss and terrain
Stay on marked paths—Icelandic moss takes decades to regrow and driving off-road is illegal and damaging.
Plan for early starts and late evenings
Golden hours and aurora windows fall outside conventional meal times; carry snacks and charged power banks.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Gunnuhver geothermal area on the Reykjanes Peninsula for vivid steam and mud pots
- •Saxhóll crater—quick climb for panoramic lava-field views with fewer visitors
Wildlife
- •Atlantic puffin
- •Harbor seal
Conservation Note
Iceland’s fragile moss, wetlands and highland soils recover slowly—stay on trails, avoid driving off-road, and pack out all waste to minimize impact.
Þingvellir was the site of Iceland’s Alþingi, one of the world’s earliest parliaments (est. 930 AD), and many landscapes are tied to Viking-era sagas.
Photographer's Notes
- • Behind Seljalandsfoss waterfall
- • Kirkjufell with its waterfall foreground
- • Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach
What to Bring
TripodEssential
Needed for long exposures of aurora and low-light landscape shots.
Waterproof shell jacketEssential
Windproof and waterproof protection for coastal spray and sudden storms.
Sturdy hiking bootsEssential
Grippy boots for uneven lava fields, wet beach sand and short trails like Svartifoss.
Extra camera batteries & weatherproof coversEssential
Cold drains batteries quickly and covers protect gear from spray and rain.
Common Questions
Is airport pickup included?
Yes; the guide offers pickup from Keflavík Airport or hotels in Reykjavik—confirm arrival flight details at booking.
Are accommodations included?
Accommodation can be arranged by the operator on request but is not automatically included—confirm when booking.
Can I add glacier hikes or ice caves?
Yes; glacier hiking, ice caving and snowmobiling are available as add-ons and require additional fees and safety equipment.
What level of photography instruction is provided?
The tour offers photographic guidance and image delivery within 72 hours—technique coaching is available to fit both beginners and experienced shooters.
How variable is the itinerary?
The route is curated but flexible—guides will adjust stops based on weather, light conditions and group interest to optimize shots and safety.
What is the cancellation policy?
Full refund available if canceled at least 24 hours before departure; the operator may cancel for bad weather and provide alternatives or refunds.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
6 days
Location
Reykjavík, Capital Region
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers who can manage multiple short hikes and standing for shoots; no technical climbing required.
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