Gabija is passionate about traveling and writing. In her free time, she likes to read, try out different cuisines, or embark on outdoor adventures.
From spectacular landscapes to witnessing the northern lights, Iceland in winter is an experience of a lifetime. Traveling to this winter wonderland is surely going to be an otherworldly adventure.
Are you up for another adventure? How about Iceland in winter? Surprised? Don't worry. We have planned the ultimate winter trip to Iceland that you wouldn't want to miss. Staying true to its name, the country is filled with ice, especially during winter. But that shouldn't stop you from living a dream. Before you go, make sure to pack your waterproofs, warm layers, and boots.
Essential tips for exploring Iceland in winter
Before you get too excited and book your Iceland winter trip, we have got a few tips to help you prepare for your holiday.
Consider the daylight hours during winter in Iceland. You'll need more daylight to visit all the sights. Typically, November, February, and March are the months with the longest daylight lengths, varying throughout the month. Always research what timings suit you best before booking your winter getaway.
Iceland is a fascinating destination. Even if you cannot have a packed itinerary, as you would have in the summers, this destination will not disappoint. Be prepared for unexpected weather changes, possibly a snowstorm in the middle of nowhere.
If you are new to driving during the winter season, we highly recommend considering having a tour guide along or hiring a driver to help you navigate this beautiful country.
Pack all winter essentials. Prepare a list of places you'll be traveling to and all the sights you'll be visiting. Boots, waterproofs, and warm layers are just the bare minimum.
Visiting Iceland | 5 Day Itinerary
Day 1 - West Iceland and Borgarfjörður
Barnafoss lava waterfall in in Western Iceland
Borgarfjörður is a fjord and a district in southwestern Iceland. If you are fascinated by the Icelandic sagas, this is an ideal start to your trip to Iceland. Home to the most powerful hot spring in Europe, Krauma baths and a massive lava cave, Borgarfjörður is part of the silver circle route. For history buffs, this historic destination has plenty of Viking tales to tell. Borgarnes, the beautiful town situated atop a hill, offers panoramic vistas of the ocean that it towers. While exploring some of the key landmarks in West Iceland, you'll also get to visit Reykholt, Snorrastofa, Hraunfossar, and Barnafoss lava waterfalls.
Day 2 - Snaefellsnes Peninsula
Arnarstapi fishing village by the Mt. Stapafell at Sneafellsnes Peninsula, Iceland
Look beyond the typical attractions of Iceland and discover one of the most stunning locations. From black sand beaches to remote lighthouses, enjoy a day trip to Snaefellsnes Peninsula on your second day in Iceland. Also known as Iceland in miniature, Snaefellsnes Peninsula is filled with stunning landscapes and natural wonders. The charming fishing village of Arnarstapi is definitely worth visiting. Along the way, there's also an opportunity to visit the subterranean lava cave, Vatnshellir.
Djúpalónssandur black sand beach in Iceland
Traveling around the coast, the black pebble beach at Djúpalónssandur is definitely worth stopping by. And last but not least, there's "the most photographed mountain in Iceland", Mount Kirkjufell. It is featured in numerous souvenirs and paintings across the country.
Go on an extra special ice cave adventure on your day four of the Iceland winter trip. Natural ice caves are spectacular phenomena. Exploring a natural ice cave in Europe's biggest glacier is an adventure you don't want to miss out on. The journey to Glacier Lagoon at Jökulsárlón, which borders Vatnajökull National Park in southeastern Iceland is a scenic place. Be mesmerized by the surreal views of Diamond Beach with a procession of icebergs that follow along to the Atlantic Ocean.
Day 5 - Glacier hike and south shore
Glacier hiking on Vatnajökull glacier in Iceland
On day five of your tour, discover the glacier on foot. Vatnajökull, the biggest glacier in Europe, has numerous glacier tongues. And on this day, you'll get to explore one of them! Your glacier guide will provide you with all the necessary glacier equipment and ensure your safety along the way.
Bright green Northern Lights in Iceland
The Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights, appear as part of a natural phenomenon that is found on every traveler's bucket list. The peak season to witness the Northern lights in Iceland is between September and April. The beautiful Thingvellir National Park, areas near Skógafoss waterfall and the Snaefellsnes peninsula, are some of the best places to witness this natural phenomenon.
