Traveling to Iceland in winter is an adventure like no other. The combination of natural beauty, thrilling activities, and cozy moments makes it a destination worth exploring. So pack your warmest clothes and get ready for an unforgettable journey!
We at Hey Iceland have gathered some of our top winter activities you can enjoy in Iceland:
1. Go on a Glacier Walk:
With 11% of Iceland covered by glaciers, they are a significant part of the landscape, ideal for exploration and learning about their environmental importance. While some glaciers are accessible by car, it is unsafe to explore them alone due to hidden dangers. Always visit with a professional guide. Various tours are available, from easy hikes to ice climbing and tours inside the world’s largest man-made ice cave on Iceland’s second-largest glacier.
Here are our favourite glacier activities!
2. Go on a Dog Sledding Tour
Discover the charm of Arctic transportation with a dog sledding tour in Iceland. Perfect for families, this adventure offers stunning landscapes and adorable travel companions.
Enjoy time with the dogs at their kennels, learning about dog sledding in Iceland. Cuddling dogs, unique experiences, and breathtaking scenery—an unforgettable way to spend a few hours in Iceland!
3. Go Waterfalls Hunting
Iceland’s waterfalls are a spectacular sight, especially in winter when they sparkle like diamonds under the sun. While the country is full of waterfalls, some are easier to access in winter than others. Here are a few favorites that remain accessible despite the snow.
- Öxarárfoss
- Seljalandsfoss
- Kirkjufellsfoss
- Gullfoss
- Hraunfossar and Barnafoss
Note: Be cautious when visiting winter waterfalls. Snow and ice can make conditions dangerous. Observe closed trail signs and tread carefully on slippery surfaces. Wearing spikes in icy areas is advisable.
Hraunfossar Waterfalls
4. Enjoy the Winter Sunrise and Sunset
As the days shorten from October to January, you’ll have the chance to enjoy both sunrise and sunset without waking up early or staying up late. The sun’s brief appearance creates stunning cotton-candy skies, perfect for a leisurely morning coffee or a stroll by the sea. Photographers will love capturing the golden light of winter sunrises and sunsets, making the landscape truly majestic.
5. Explore Iceland on a Snowmobile
Experience the thrill of snowmobiling on Iceland’s glaciers. This activity is perfect for those looking for an adrenaline rush while enjoying the stunning winter scenery. Tours are available on glaciers like Langjökull and Vatnajökull where you can ride across vast snowy expanses and take in the breathtaking views. Book your tour here!
6. Go Inside an Ice Cave
Visiting an ice cave in Iceland feels like entering a frozen wonderland. The blue ice, shaped by nature over centuries, creates an otherworldly atmosphere. Light filtering through the ice casts a magical glow, highlighting intricate patterns. This humbling and exhilarating experience offers a unique glimpse into nature’s raw beauty and power. Never try and visit an ice cave without a professional guide as this can be very dangerous. Check out this list of ice cave tours for a safe adventure.
7. Soak the Stress Away
Did you know that Iceland boasts hundreds of hot pools in various shapes and sizes? They’re fantastic year-round, but there’s something especially magical about sinking into the warm water when it’s chilly outside. If you’re fortunate enough to have a clear evening sky, you might even enjoy stargazing or witnessing the northern lights. You can also find various geothermal pools around the island.
West: Geothermal baths Krauma / Húsafell Canyon Baths / Hvammsvík Natural Hot Springs
North: Mývatn Nature Baths / GeoSea Húsavík
East: Vök Baths
South: Secret Lagoon / Laugarvatn Fontana Spa
Reykjavík: Sky Lagoon - Saman Pass (public changing facilities)
Sky Lagoon – Sér Pass (private changing facilities)
Mývatn Nature Baths
8. Enjoy a Cosy Night in the Countryside
Regardless of the weather outside, the abundant geothermal heating ensures it’s always warm indoors. The long winter nights in Iceland are ideal for a romantic getaway. You can rent a self-catering cottage, a favourite among locals, or stay in a cozy country hotel or farm-stay for a few nights. Make the most of daylight for sightseeing and outdoor adventures, then chase the Northern Lights at night, benefiting from the reduced light pollution from the city.
Find your perfect countryside stay here.
9. Go Whale Watching
Whale watching in Iceland during the winter is a magical experience. As you venture out into the cold ocean, you’ll be surrounded by stunning snow-covered landscapes and the crisp, fresh air of the North Atlantic. Despite the cold, winter is an excellent time to spot orcas and humpback whales, as they migrate to the rich feeding grounds around Iceland. It’s an adventure that combines the thrill of wildlife watching with the serene beauty of Iceland’s winter wonderland.
You can find your whale watching tour here, whether you’re staying in Reykjavík city, or even if you’re up North.
10. Join a Guided Tour From Reykjavík
Taking a guided tour from Reykjavík during winter offers numerous advantages. Guides provide valuable insights into Iceland’s history, culture, and natural wonders, enriching your experience. Winter conditions can be harsh and unpredictable, but a guided tour ensures you navigate safely through icy roads and snowy landscapes. Additionally, you won’t need to worry about planning routes or finding attractions, as everything is organized for you, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery. Plus, it’s a great way to meet fellow travellers and share the adventure, adding a social element to your trip.
View the guided tours we offer from Reykjavík here, or contact us and we’ll assist you on finding the right one!
Some extra tips for winter travelling
- Dress in layers: The weather can be unpredictable, so layering is key.
- Rent a 4x4 vehicle: Roads can be icy and challenging.
- Plan for daylight: With limited daylight hours, plan your activities accordingly.
- Stay flexible: Weather conditions can change rapidly, so be prepared to adjust your plans.
Let the travel experts at Hey Iceland help you craft the ultimate winter Iceland road trip itinerary. Reach out to us today and start planning your adventure!