Iceland is a country of stunning natural beauty that can be enjoyed all year round. However, traveling to Iceland during the winter months requires some extra preparation and consideration. With its snowy landscapes, the Northern Lights, and fewer tourists, Iceland in winter is a magical experience. Here are some tips for traveling to Iceland during the winter season.
1. Plan your itinerary carefully
Winter in Iceland means shorter daylight hours, so it’s important to plan your itinerary carefully. Make sure you have enough time to explore your chosen destinations during the limited daylight hours. Also, be sure to check the weather conditions and road closures before embarking on any journey. Sometimes, weather can be unpredictable and you might have to take a pause. Keep in mind to not push and go against nature as it can be very dangerous.
If want to track weather, road conditions, and aurora forecast, here are some essential official websites to check:
- Icelandic Meteorological Office (https://en.vedur.is/) – This website provides up-to-date information on weather forecasts, warnings, and alerts across Iceland. It also includes live webcams and a Northern Lights forecast.
- The Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration (https://www.road.is/) – This website provides information on road conditions, including closures and roadblocks, in Iceland. It also includes webcams that show live images of the roads.
- SafeTravel Iceland (https://safetravel.is/) – This website provides information on travel safety in Iceland, including weather and road conditions. It also allows you to register your travel plans and receive alerts about any potential hazards or emergencies.
By regularly checking these websites, you can stay informed about weather conditions, road closures, and the likelihood of seeing the Northern Lights during your trip to Iceland.
2. Winter Packing Guide
Packing for a winter trip to Iceland can be challenging, but it’s essential to pack the right gear to stay warm and comfortable. Here are some essential items to include in your winter packing list:
- Warm and waterproof jacket
- Insulated gloves and hat
- Thermal underwear and wool socks
- Fleece or down jacket
- Waterproof boots with good traction
- Scarf, Hand and feet warmers
- Moisturizer and lip balm
- Sunglasses and sunscreen (even in winter, the sun’s reflection on snow can cause sunburn)
- Power Bank, Camera with extra batteries and memory cards
It’s also a good idea to pack some snacks and water, as well as a small first aid kit with essentials like painkillers, bandages, and antiseptic wipes. By packing the right gear, you’ll be able to fully enjoy all that Iceland has to offer during the winter season.
3. Rent a 4×4 vehicle
Many roads in Iceland are closed during the winter months due to heavy snowfall and ice, so it’s essential to rent a four-wheel-drive vehicle if you are planning to drive around Iceland. This type of vehicle will enable you to navigate through the challenging winter terrain, including icy and snowy roads, steep hills, and gravel roads, especially when the weather gets too windy and stormy.
4. Stay in comfortable accommodation
Iceland’s winter weather can be brutal, and it’s essential to have a comfortable and warm place to stay. Many hotels and guesthouses offer cozy and comfortable accommodation. Iceland is very expensive. In-order to cut some cost on food, book an Airbnb / hotel with Kitchen facilities so that you cook your own meals.
5. Look out for the Northern Lights
The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon that can be seen in Iceland during the winter months. The best time to see them is from September to April, with December to February being the prime months. Be sure to check the weather forecast and cloud cover to maximize your chances of seeing this incredible natural light display.
Aurora Reykjavik (https://auroraforecast.is/) – This website provides real-time information on the aurora forecast. You can book your guided tours below;
6. Book activities in advance
Winter in Iceland offers a range of exciting activities such as snowmobiling, glacier hiking, ice caving, and snorkelling between the tectonic plates and many more. However, these activities can book up quickly, so it’s important to book in advance to avoid disappointment.
7. Be prepared for the darkness in the Winter
Iceland experiences extreme variations in daylight hours throughout the year, with long summer days and short winter days. The Midnight Sun in June and July is a unique phenomenon that attracts visitors from around the world. However, the long winter nights also provide an excellent opportunity to experience the Northern Lights, another natural wonder of Iceland. For your quick reference, here’s the breakdown of daylight hours in each month in Iceland in a table format:
| Month | Average Daylight Hours | Sunrise Time | Sunset Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 4-5 hours | Around 11 am | Around 3-4 pm |
| February | 7 hours | Around 9 am | Around 5 pm |
| March | 12 hours | Around 7:30 am | Around 7:30 pm |
| April | 15 hours | Around 6 am | Around 9 pm |
| May | 18-20 hours | Around 4 am | Around midnight |
| June | Almost 24 hours | Around 2:45 am | Around midnight |
| July | Almost 24 hours | Midnight | Around 1 am |
| August | 18-20 hours | Around 4 am | Around 10 pm |
| September | 14-16 hours | Around 7 am | Around 8 pm |
| October | 10 hours | Around 9 am | Around 6 pm |
| November | 4-5 hours | Around 10 am | Around 3-4 pm |
| December | Few hours | Around 11 am | Around 3-4 pm |
Iceland in the winter is a truly magical experience, but it requires extra preparation and consideration. By following these tips, you’ll be able to fully enjoy all that Iceland has to offer during the winter season.
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