November is a fantastic month to visit Iceland for those who want to see the Northern Lights and experience wintry outdoor activities: ice caving, snorkeling the Silfra fissure, and soaking in a geothermal pool. It’s also an ideal time to travel around the lowlands without worrying too much about the weather. Find out what to do and where to go with this monthly guide.
## Weather in Iceland During November
Venturing into Iceland in November means stepping firmly into the embrace of winter, a season characterized by its unpredictable nature and the potential for dramatic weather events. Prepare yourself for the possibility of heavy storms that can sweep across the landscape, bringing with them a sense of both awe and challenge. The majestic mountains of Iceland, already striking in their natural form, will likely be crowned, if not entirely draped, in a pristine blanket of snow, adding to the visual grandeur of the environment. As November progresses, the nights will become increasingly long and profoundly dark, intensifying the feeling of being immersed in a truly unique and somewhat otherworldly experience.
At the beginning of November, you can anticipate approximately eight hours of daylight each day. However, as the month draws to a close, the amount of daylight diminishes considerably, shrinking to a mere five hours. Temperatures during this period typically hover around the freezing point, generally fluctuating between 30 and 38 degrees Fahrenheit. Therefore, it is crucial to meticulously plan your outdoor excursions and ensure that you pack appropriate clothing and gear to effectively handle the cold conditions. Keep in mind that road conditions and walking paths may be affected by the weather, potentially becoming compromised or dangerously slippery due to ice and snow. It is highly recommended that you exercise extra caution while driving and consider packing crampons to provide additional traction when navigating icy surfaces on foot.
## Crowds and Costs in November
November stands out as one of the quietest and most tranquil months for travel in Iceland, largely due to the limited daylight hours and the fact that the peak winter activity season has not yet fully commenced. This translates to significantly lower prices for both flights and accommodations, offering a distinct advantage for budget-conscious travelers seeking to explore Iceland without breaking the bank. Furthermore, if you are hoping to avoid the bustling crowds and higher costs associated with the December holiday season, then November presents an ideal window of opportunity to experience Iceland in a more serene and less crowded setting. Take advantage of the calmer atmosphere and the chance to connect with the landscape on a deeper, more personal level.
## Where to Go in Iceland in November
November is an excellent time to explore the vibrant city of Reykjavík before the full intensity of winter sets in. Take a leisurely stroll down Laugavegur, the oldest and arguably coolest street in Reykjavík, situated in the heart of the compact downtown area. Laugavegur is brimming with a wide array of charming cafés and trendy boutiques, offering ample opportunities to indulge in local treats, browse unique souvenirs, and soak in the city’s distinctive atmosphere.
A classic and highly recommended route from Reykjavík involves heading south to experience the renowned Golden Circle and the stunning South Shore. Your journey can begin at Þingvellir National Park, a site of immense historical and geological significance, being the location of Iceland’s first national park. It also gained fame as a filming location for the popular HBO series, Game of Thrones. From Þingvellir, the route takes you past the dramatic lava fields of the Reykjanes Peninsula, offering a glimpse into Iceland’s volcanic landscape. You will then encounter the Geysir Geothermal Area, a fascinating zone of geothermal activity, and the majestic Gullfoss waterfall, one of Iceland’s most iconic natural attractions. Continuing along the South Shore, you’ll traverse a scenic route that parallels the imposing Eyjafjoll Mountains, providing breathtaking views of the towering Eyjafjallajokull Glacier. The journey culminates in the charming village of Vík and the dramatic black-sand beach of Reynisfjara, a place of raw beauty and untamed power.
For those seeking outdoor adventures and a greater likelihood of witnessing the mesmerizing Northern Lights, consider venturing north to Akureyri. This northern town provides a gateway to early-winter excursions and offers a prime location for observing the Aurora Borealis.
## Activities and Things to Do in Iceland in November
With the arrival of the offseason, you can enjoy exploring the popular attractions along the southern coast of Iceland with fewer crowds of tourists. This is a fantastic opportunity to visit the hauntingly beautiful Sólheimasandur plane crash site as you make your way towards the impressive landscapes of Reynisfjara and Vík.
For those willing to brave the chilly temperatures, some truly adventurous activities await. The hardy traveler might enjoy the thrill of surfing off the Reykjanes Peninsula or the unique experience of snorkeling or diving in the Silfra fissure within Þingvellir National Park, where you can swim between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. Glacier hiking and ice caving are also popular winter activities that offer a chance to explore the frozen wonders of Iceland. Strap on your crampons and embark on a hike along the fascinating contours of the Vatnajökull glacier, the largest glacier in Europe. You can also seize the opportunity to climb into naturally formed ice caves, a breathtaking and seasonal experience that will leave you with lasting memories.
Beyond these adventurous pursuits, there are also plenty of more traditional winter activities to enjoy. These range from snowmobiling and dog sledding across snowfields and atop glaciers to downhill and cross-country skiing and snowshoeing through scenic landscapes. For the best skiing slopes in Iceland, head north to the resorts located in and around Akureyri.
Relax and rejuvenate by soaking in a heated pool, also known as *heitir pottar* (hot pot), a quintessential Icelandic experience. You can also visit the iconic Blue Lagoon near the Keflavík airport or opt for a more secluded experience at the lesser-frequented Mývatn Natural Baths in the north. For a truly authentic local experience, seek out naturally occurring hot springs or geothermal rivers, where you can immerse yourself in the warm waters surrounded by stunning scenery. One significant advantage of experiencing these outdoor soaking opportunities at night is the potential to witness the enchanting dance of the Auroras overhead. Alternatively, if you are determined to see the Northern Lights, you can join a guided tour by boat, Super Jeep, or bus, or you can rent a car and embark on your own Northern Lights hunting adventure.
## Events in Iceland in November
**Iceland Airwaves Music Festival:** This renowned four-day event takes place annually in Reykjavík and showcases a diverse lineup of both new international bands and up-and-coming Icelandic artists, typically running from November 7th to 10th.
**Everybody’s Spectacular:** Held every year in mid-November, this combined festival brings together the Reykjavík Dance Festival and the LÓKAL International Theater Festival for one impressive five-day event. The festival features a wide range of captivating performances from both local and international artists in the fields of theater and dance.
## Recommended Itineraries for November Travel to Iceland
**Best of Iceland’s South Coast & Golden Circle – 6 Days:** Starting in Reykjavik, this 6-day Icelandic road trip gives you the flexibility to explore the classic highlights along the country’s stunning south coast at your own pace. You’ll encounter breathtaking waterfalls, otherworldly black sand beaches, impressive basalt columns, massive glaciers, and icebergs floating in glacial lagoons. The itinerary also includes the popular Golden Circle route, where you can witness the powerful Gullfoss waterfall, the active geothermal area of Geysir (with the Strokkur geyser erupting like clockwork), and the historically significant Þingvellir National Park, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet.
**Winter Adventures in West & South Iceland – 9 Days:** This self-drive tour is specifically designed to highlight some of Iceland’s most exceptional sites and winter-themed activities, while also offering ample opportunities to search for the elusive Northern Lights. The tour begins in Reykjavik and takes you off the beaten path to the dramatic volcanic Snaefellsnes Peninsula, a region often referred to as “Miniature Iceland” due to its diverse landscapes. You’ll then continue to the renowned Golden Circle to experience the unique activity of snorkeling between tectonic plates in the Silfra fissure. The tour concludes with exploration of the captivating black sand beaches of the South Coast, offering a complete and unforgettable Icelandic winter adventure.
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