Want to spend your holidays in a winter wonderland, see the northern lights, take a dogsled or snowmobile tour, hike on a glacier, or climb through ice caves? Iceland is the perfect place to spend some time this winter. While daylight is limited and the nights are long, you can experience some truly unique adventures without the big crowds of the peak season.
Below you will find extensive information regarding traveling to the captivating landscapes of Iceland during the winter months. This comprehensive guide includes suggested itineraries for self-drive tours, affording you unparalleled flexibility to explore at your own pace. These itineraries come complete with crucial winter driving tips, ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey. Alternatively, if you prefer to leave the winter driving to seasoned professionals, we also present a selection of exceptional smaller group tours, each meticulously designed to showcase the very best of Iceland in its winter splendor.
When you’re ready to embark on the exciting process of planning your unforgettable trip to Iceland, consider reaching out to one of our trusted local experts. These knowledgeable individuals possess an intimate understanding of Iceland and can expertly answer your questions, provide invaluable insights, and collaborate with you to create the perfect winter itinerary tailored precisely to your preferences and interests.
## When Does Winter Arrive in Iceland?
The “Winter Season,” also frequently referred to as the “off-season,” in Iceland typically spans from November to April. During this period, the hours of daylight are significantly reduced, creating a unique ambiance and presenting both opportunities and considerations for travelers. Many day tours and activities either cease operations altogether or operate with considerably reduced hours during the winter months. Certain activities, such as kayaking and rafting, often do not resume until May or June and conclude by mid-September.
While the limited daylight hours may restrict the amount of activities you can squeeze into each day, the winter season offers a distinct advantage: an atmosphere of tranquility and serenity. The crowds of tourists are significantly smaller during this time, allowing for a more intimate and immersive experience of Iceland’s natural wonders. Moreover, winter is undeniably the prime season for witnessing the mesmerizing Northern Lights, a spectacle that draws visitors from around the globe.
For those seeking a balance between fewer crowds, opportunities to witness the Northern Lights, and sufficient daylight for exploration, traveling in early November or late March presents an ideal compromise. During these periods, the crowds remain relatively small, the likelihood of encountering the Northern Lights is still high, and there are enough daylight hours to engage in a variety of activities each day.
## Iceland Weather and Daylight: A Winter Overview
### Temperature and Precipitation: What to Expect
Iceland’s winter temperatures often surprise visitors, as they are generally not as extreme as many anticipate. Average low temperatures typically hover just below freezing. However, it’s crucial to remember that high winds can significantly amplify the perceived coldness, making it feel much colder than the actual temperature. To combat this, dressing in layers is highly recommended, along with a good windproof jacket, a warm hat, and adequate ear protection.
**Sunrise, Sunset, and Hours of Daylight: Navigating the Darkness**
Due to Iceland’s northern latitude, the winter days are considerably short, and the nights are correspondingly long. The length of daylight hours varies significantly throughout the year. However, dawn and dusk tend to be extended, and the presence of snow reflects the available light, preventing complete darkness even outside of daylight hours. Sunrise and sunset times in Reykjavik will vary significantly.
## Popular Winter Activities in Iceland: Embrace the Magic
**Northern Lights: Chasing the Aurora Borealis:**
The allure of the Northern Lights is undeniable, but it’s essential to understand that their appearance is never guaranteed. Several factors must align to create the perfect conditions for viewing this celestial phenomenon. These factors include clear weather, minimal cloud cover, sufficient solar activity, and dark skies, free from light pollution.
During the winter months, you will naturally maximize your exposure to darkness, thereby increasing your chances of witnessing the Northern Lights. You can attempt to observe them from your hotel, provided it is situated away from the artificial lights of Reykjavik, or you can join a dedicated Northern Lights hunt tour. For those seeking the ultimate flexibility, consider a tour in a super jeep. These specialized vehicles are equipped to navigate challenging terrain, allowing you to access remote locations inaccessible to other vehicles, thus enhancing your chances of a breathtaking Northern Lights display. Kirkjufell is one such iconic location.
**Snowmobiling: An Exhilarating Adventure:**
Experience the thrill of snowmobiling across pristine snow fields and atop majestic glaciers. Numerous tour operators offer snowmobiling excursions from various locations, making it easy to incorporate a couple-hour adventure into most itineraries.
**Ice Caves: Exploring Subglacial Wonders:**
The renowned Crystal Ice Cave in Vatnajökull Glacier typically welcomes visitors from mid-November through March. Within this mesmerizing cave, you can marvel at the intricate ice sculptures and formations illuminated by an ethereal blue light. For an alternative ice cave experience, consider the man-made ice cave at Langjökull Glacier. This cave remains open for a longer season and is meticulously recreated each year due to the glacier’s slow movement, which gradually shifts the position of the straight tunnel.
**Glacier Walk / Ice Climb: A Unique Icelandic Experience:**
These activities are available year-round, offering a distinctive and unforgettable Icelandic experience. Don a pair of crampons and embark on a guided hike along the icy contours of Iceland’s magnificent glaciers. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, consider joining an ice climbing excursion, where you can test your strength and agility by scaling smaller ice cliffs.
**Dog Sledding: A Thrilling Ride Through the Snow:**
Dog sledding in Iceland is a highly sought-after activity that attracts visitors from around the world. Meet the enthusiastic team of dogs and embark on a thrilling sled ride, typically lasting around one hour, across the snowy expanse.
**Snowshoeing, Downhill Skiing, and Cross-Country Skiing: Classic Winter Sports:**
Many areas throughout Iceland offer opportunities to engage in traditional winter sports. For exceptional skiing, venture to the Westfjords, the region surrounding Akureyri in the north, or the eastern fjords, where you can carve down snowy mountains while enjoying panoramic views of the ocean below.
**Super Jeep Tours: Exploring Remote Landscapes:**
During the winter months, many of Iceland’s smaller roads are closed to standard traffic. Even most 4WD vehicles may be unable to navigate certain challenging routes. Consider joining a super jeep tour to traverse the deep snowpack and access remote areas, allowing you to experience the unspoiled beauty of Iceland in relative solitude.
## Winter Driving in Iceland: Essential Considerations
Driving in Iceland during the winter can present challenges, especially for those unfamiliar with winter driving conditions. Prior preparation, caution, and adherence to safety precautions are essential. If you possess experience driving in winter conditions, regularly check road conditions and weather forecasts, and carefully heed all warning signs, you should be able to navigate safely.
In certain areas, some roads are not cleared or maintained during the winter months, necessitating detours.
The primary concern when driving in winter is the potential for black ice, particularly when coupled with strong gusts of wind. It is imperative to check weather reports for icy road conditions and wind strength (temperatures and winds are typically reported for most mountain passes). Ensure that you drive a vehicle equipped with 4WD and winter tires. In snowy conditions, exercise caution, drive slowly, and avoid rushing. Remember, Iceland’s stunning scenery is best savored at a relaxed pace.
Frozen Hraunfossar falls in Winter offer a unique spectacle.
## How to Get Around Iceland in Winter: Alternative Transportation Options
If you lack experience driving in winter conditions or feel uncomfortable with the potential hazards, it is advisable to refrain from driving. Fortunately, numerous alternative transportation options are available for exploring Iceland during the winter months. These include multi-day small-group tours, private tours, and specialized super jeeps designed to traverse snow-covered terrain and even glaciers.
We collaborate with a network of reputable and high-quality tour operators and can assist you in creating a customized itinerary that aligns with your preferences and travel style.
If you wish to retain the flexibility of having your own winter-capable vehicle but prefer to minimize the amount of driving you undertake, consider exploring the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, which boasts a high concentration of attractions within a relatively small area. Alternatively, you can fly to Akureyri in the north and explore the captivating Lake Myvatn area, which offers a diverse range of geological wonders, including volcanoes, geothermal hot springs, caves, and lava fields, all within a convenient one-hour drive from Akureyri.
## Holidays in Iceland: A Festive Winter Wonderland
Reykjavik covered in snow around the winter holidays is a beautiful sight.
### Christmas: A Season of Light and Festivity
Christmas is the most extended holiday in Iceland, commencing on December 23 and concluding on January 6. This period also coincides with the darkest time of year in Iceland, prompting Icelanders to make a concerted effort to infuse their surroundings with light. This is especially evident during the New Year’s Eve celebrations. Homes and Christmas trees are adorned with vibrant lights, which are further amplified by the reflection of snow on the ground. Many shops are closed from December 24 to December 27, as families and friends gather to celebrate together.
### New Year’s Celebrations: A Night of Fireworks and Merriment
New Year’s Eve is a grand celebration in Iceland. If you find yourself in Reykjavik, the capital city, you will not want to miss the festivities. Unlike many other countries, Iceland imposes no limitations on the quantity of fireworks that can be purchased, nor are there restrictions on when and where they can be ignited on New Year’s Eve. As a result, this night is a truly unforgettable spectacle, reaching its climax around midnight and continuing well into the early hours of the morning. To immerse yourself fully in Icelandic New Year’s traditions, consider attending one of the bonfires held throughout the city.
### Yule Lads (jólasveinarnir, also called “Yuletide-lads or Yulemen”): The Thirteen Santas of Iceland
Instead of a single “Father Christmas” or Santa Claus, Icelandic children are visited by 13 Yule Lads. The tradition involves children placing a shoe at the window each night for the 13 nights leading up to Christmas Eve. Each night, a different Yule Lad visits, leaving gifts for well-behaved children and rotting potatoes for those who have been naughty. The Yule Lads are the sons of Grýla and Leppalúði, among the most fearsome ogres in Icelandic folklore. In older times, the Yule Lads were depicted as fearsome figures intended to instill obedience in children. Today, they are generally portrayed as friendly characters resembling modern-day depictions of Santa Claus, complete with a red and white coat.
### Yule Cat (Jólakötturinn): A Feline Threat
According to ancient Icelandic folklore, every Icelander must receive new clothes before Christmas Eve. Those who fail to receive new attire are said to be preyed upon by the large and vicious Yule Cat, who roams the snowy landscapes on Christmas Eve. The origins of this legend can be traced back to farms that sought to incentivize workers to complete the processing of wool before Christmas. Those who finished their tasks were rewarded with new clothes, while those who did not faced the threat of being devoured by the Yule Cat.
### Sun Pancakes (Westfjords Tradition): Celebrating the Return of the Sun
The Westfjords region, located in the far northwest of Iceland, experiences minimal sunlight during the winter months. The towering mountains surrounding Isafjordur obstruct the low-hanging sun, rendering it invisible from the town for approximately 60 days each December and January. While it is not completely dark, the region experiences a perpetual state of dusk from approximately 11 am to 4 pm. On the positive side, the extended darkness provides ample opportunities to witness the Northern Lights.
January 25 marks sóldagur (“Sun Day”), the first day on which the sun shines for a few precious minutes on Sólgata (“Sun Street”). To commemorate this event, residents gather on the street to bask in the brief sun rays and prepare and consume “Sun Pancakes,” served with cream and rhubarb jam.
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