Accessibility Policy

Aurora & Locals
Operated by Premier Tours ehf.

Effective Date: August 16, 2026
Last Updated: August 16, 2026

Our Belief

The northern lights belong to everyone.

Not just the able-bodied. Not just the adventurous. Not just those who can hike for hours or climb into a Super Jeep without a second thought. The sky doesn't ask who's watching — and neither should we.

At Aurora & Locals, we are committed to making aurora travel as accessible as possible — both on our platform and in the experiences we offer.

1. Website Accessibility

1.1. Our Standards

We strive to ensure that our website meets the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 Level AA standards, as recommended by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C).

This means we are committed to a website that is:

• Perceivable — Content is presented in ways all users can perceive (text alternatives for images, captions, adaptable layouts)

• Operable — Navigation and interface elements work for all users (keyboard navigation, sufficient time, no seizure-inducing content)

• Understandable — Content and interface are clear and predictable (readable text, consistent navigation, error prevention)

• Robust — Content works across assistive technologies (screen readers, magnifiers, voice recognition)

1.2. What We've Implemented

• Alt text on all images and visual content

• Keyboard-navigable menus and booking forms

• Sufficient colour contrast ratios (minimum 4.5:1 for text)

• Resizable text without loss of functionality

• Clear, descriptive link text (no "click here" links)

• Logical heading structure for screen reader navigation

• Form labels and error messages that are clear and descriptive

• Video captions where applicable

• Focus indicators for keyboard users

• Skip-to-content links for efficient navigation

• ARIA labels where standard HTML is insufficient

• Responsive design that works across devices and screen sizes

1.3. Ongoing Commitment

Accessibility is not a one-time project — it's an ongoing practice. We:

• Conduct regular accessibility audits (at least annually)

• Test with screen readers (VoiceOver, NVDA, JAWS)

• Test with keyboard-only navigation

• Review new features for accessibility before launch

• Train our team on inclusive design principles

• Welcome feedback from users with disabilities (see Section 7)

1.4. Known Limitations

We are aware that some areas of our website may not yet be fully accessible. Currently known limitations include:

• Some third-party embedded content (maps, videos) may not be fully compatible with all assistive technologies

• PDF documents may not be fully screen reader optimised (we are working to convert to accessible formats)

• Older content may not yet meet all WCAG 2.1 AA criteria

We are actively working to address these limitations and welcome reports of any accessibility barriers you encounter.

2. Accessible Travel Experiences

2.1. Our Commitment to Inclusive Travel

We believe everyone deserves to experience the aurora. We actively work with our local hosts to expand accessibility across our experience offerings.

2.2. Accessibility Information on Listings

Every experience listing on Aurora & Locals includes an Accessibility section where hosts provide information on:

• Mobility: Wheelchair accessibility, walking distances, terrain type, step-free access

• Sensory: Availability of audio descriptions, visual guides, tactile experiences

• Cognitive: Clear itineraries, simplified instructions, flexible pacing

• Physical requirements: Fitness level, stamina requirements, age restrictions

• Transport: Accessible vehicle options, transfer assistance

• Facilities: Accessible toilets, seating, indoor/outdoor access

2.3. Accessibility Badges

We award the following badges to experiences that meet verified accessibility standards:

2.4. Accessible Experience Categories

We curate specific categories for accessible aurora travel:

• Aurora from the vehicle — No walking required; view the lights from a heated, accessible vehicle

• Stationary aurora viewing — Accessible lodges, cabins, and platforms with step-free viewing positions

• Accessible hot springs & aurora — Pools with ramp access, hoists, or shallow entry

• Private accessible tours — Bespoke experiences designed entirely around your mobility and accessibility needs

• Slow-paced aurora tours — Extended timelines, frequent stops, flexible pacing

2.5. What We Ask of Our Hosts

All hosts on Aurora & Locals must:

• Honestly and accurately describe the accessibility of their experience

• Not refuse guests based on disability (unless genuine safety risk is documented)

• Accommodate reasonable accessibility requests where possible

• Communicate openly with guests about what is and isn't possible

• Notify Aurora & Locals of any accessibility improvements or limitations

Hosts who provide exceptional accessible experiences are highlighted and promoted on our platform.

3. Communication Accessibility

3.1. Multiple Contact Methods

We offer multiple ways to reach us, ensuring communication is accessible to all:

3.2. Content Formats

Upon request, we can provide information in:

• Large print format

• Plain text (simplified language)

• Screen reader-optimised documents

• Alternative languages where available

3.3. Booking Assistance

If you need help navigating our booking process due to a disability or accessibility barrier:

• Contact us and we will complete the booking on your behalf at no additional cost

• We will ensure your accessibility requirements are communicated to the host

• We will confirm all accessibility details with the host before finalising your booking

4. Service Animals

4.1. Our Policy

Service animals (guide dogs, hearing dogs, and other trained assistance animals) are welcome on Aurora & Locals experiences where it is safe and practical.

4.2. Host Obligations

• Hosts must not refuse guests with service animals unless there is a documented, genuine safety concern (e.g., extreme terrain, vehicle limitations, wildlife interaction areas)

• If a host cannot accommodate a service animal, they must communicate this clearly in their listing

• Hosts should never charge additional fees for service animals

4.3. Guest Responsibilities

• Inform us at the time of booking if you will be accompanied by a service animal

• Ensure your animal is appropriately trained and under control at all times

• Be aware that Iceland's extreme weather may affect your animal — hosts can advise on conditions

5. Dietary & Medical Accessibility

For experiences that include food, drink, or extended time outdoors:

5.1. Dietary Requirements

• Hosts accommodate allergies and dietary needs where possible (vegan, gluten-free, halal, kosher, allergies)

• Guests must disclose dietary requirements at the time of booking

• Hosts will confirm whether they can accommodate before the experience

5.2. Medical Needs

• If you require medication, medical equipment, or rest stops during an experience, please inform us at booking

• Hosts will accommodate reasonable medical needs (e.g., regular breaks, access to power for medical devices, temperature-controlled storage for medication)

• For complex medical needs, we recommend booking a private experience where the itinerary can be fully customised

6. Pricing & Accessibility

6.1. No Accessibility Surcharge

Aurora & Locals does not charge additional fees for accessibility accommodations. If a host needs to make special arrangements (e.g., accessible vehicle hire), any additional costs will be communicated transparently before booking — never as a surprise.

6.2. Carer & Companion Policies

• If you travel with a carer or personal assistant who is not participating in the experience (solely providing support), please inform us — some hosts offer reduced or waived fees for non-participating carers

• This is at the host's discretion and will be confirmed before booking

7. Feedback & Reporting Barriers

7.1. We Want to Hear From You

Accessibility is a journey, not a destination. If you encounter any barrier — on our website or during an experience — we want to know.

7.2. How to Report

• Email: [accessibility@auroraandlocals.is]

• Subject line: "Accessibility Feedback" or "Barrier Report"

• Include (if possible): Description of the barrier, where it occurred (URL or experience name), what assistive technology you were using, how it impacted your experience

7.3. Our Response

We take every accessibility report seriously. Your feedback directly shapes improvements to our platform and partner experiences.

8. Legal Framework

This Accessibility Policy is guided by:

• European Accessibility Act (EAA) — Directive (EU) 2019/882, applicable from June 2025

• Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 — Level AA conformance target

• Icelandic Act on the Affairs of Disabled People (No. 59/1992) — Equal rights and non-discrimination

• UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) — Ratified by Iceland

• EU Directive on Accessibility of Websites and Mobile Applications (2016/2102)

We are committed to meeting and exceeding our legal obligations under these frameworks.

9. Working with Our Hosts

9.1. Host Education

We provide our hosts with:

• Accessibility guidelines and best practices during onboarding

• Resources on how to describe their experience's accessibility honestly

• Examples of simple, low-cost accessibility improvements

• Guidance on communicating with guests who have disabilities

• Incentives for hosts who invest in accessibility upgrades

9.2. Accessibility Reviews

We periodically review host listings for accuracy of accessibility information. Hosts found to have misrepresented their accessibility level will be asked to correct their listing immediately.

9.3. Community Investment

A portion of our platform revenue is allocated to:

• Supporting hosts in making accessibility improvements (e.g., ramps, accessible vehicles)

• Developing new accessible aurora experiences

• Partnering with disability organisations in Iceland and internationally

• Funding research into inclusive tourism in the Arctic

10. Our Accessibility Goals (2026–2028)

11. Contact Us

For accessibility questions, requests, or feedback:

Aurora & Locals (Premier Tours ehf.)

• Accessibility: [accessibility@auroraandlocals.is]

• General: [hello@auroraandlocals.is]

• Website: [www.auroraandlocals.is]

• Icelandic Tourist Board License: 461223-1680

• Kennitala: 4612231680

Aurora & Locals is committed to digital accessibility and inclusive travel. This policy is reviewed annually and updated as our capabilities grow.

Everyone deserves to look up and feel wonder.