Gabija is passionate about traveling and writing. In her free time, she likes to read, try out different cuisines, or embark on outdoor adventures.
Visiting Iceland in February is always a good idea! From ice caving to snowmobiling, from glacier hiking to lava caving and hot springs – there is plenty to explore in Iceland during February! Read on to find out more about weather conditions, the best activities, and how to prepare for visiting Iceland in February.
What to know before visiting Iceland in February
Gear up your hiking boots – the paths tend to be icy and snowy, so wearing some ice spikes will help you get a little extra grip!
Long nights in February provide amazing opportunities to see the Northern Lights – consider booking a guided Northern Lights tour to increase your chances of seeing them!
February in Iceland is still pretty much the middle of the winter, so plan and dress accordingly!
It is not recommended to drive yourself, especially if you're not used to driving under harsh winter conditions. It is much safer to book a guided tour where your experienced driver guide will take you where you want to go!
Weather in Iceland in February
Weather in Iceland during February is known to be pretty much unpredictable. You can expect to experience snow, rain, and strong winds on the same day! Of course, not everything's so negative – there's some sunshine as well!
Famous Gullfoss waterfall during sunrise in February, Iceland
Temperature in Iceland in February
The average temperature in Iceland in February is between -3 and +3°C (26-34° Fahrenheit), and the average temperature in Reykjavik is around 1°C (33.8° Fahrenheit). February is one of the wettest months in Iceland, with an average precipitation of 77 millimeters.
Daylight in Iceland in February
The hours of daylight vary from the beginning to the end of the month, with each day gaining 6 minutes more! For example, on the 1st of February, the daylight usually lasts around 7 hours, and by the time 28th of February, we already get 10 hours of daylight!
Driving in Iceland in March
As we mentioned before, driving in February is not recommended if you're not used to driving under unpredictable conditions. If you do decide to drive yourself, we recommend renting a four-wheel vehicle for this time of the year. Also, check the weather forecast and road conditions websites every once in a while. Even though the main road, the Ring Road, is usually well-maintained throughout the year, some road closures may occur during this time, especially in rural areas.
The safest way to explore Iceland on winter - join the guided tour, sit back and relax
Can you see the Northern Lights in Iceland in February
The answer is – definitely yes! February, as the winter months, is one of the best times to see the Northern Lights in Iceland! The two key components of a successful Northern Lights hunt are clear and dark skies and sufficient solar activity. How to know if it's a good time? There's a forecast, the same as for the weather! You can check the aurora forecast.
February is one of the best times to see the Northern Lights in Iceland!
If you don't trust your ability to read the aurora forecast, booking a guided Northern Lights tour will definitely increase your chances of seeing them!
When talking about what to wear in Iceland during February, it is important to mention layers. First, two layers of thermals and wool/fleece clothes to keep you warm, and the third layer of weatherproof jacket and pants. Also, good sturdy hiking boots are essential to keep you comfortable.
Dressing in layers is important when traveling in Iceland during February
What to pack for Iceland in February:
Thermal underwear
Warm pants and sweater
The waterproof and windproof outer layer
Sturdy hiking boots
Hat, scarf and gloves
Swimwear
Sunglasses
Warm socks
Things to do in Iceland in February
Wondering what to do in Iceland in February? It is the time of the year when you can enjoy all the winter activities, such as snowmobiling, sightseeing, ice caving, glacier hiking, lava caving, and snorkeling. Check out the best activities for February in Iceland!
Ice Caving in Iceland in February
Mesmerizing Crystal Ice Cave found in 2022, Iceland
Natural ice caves are a unique natural phenomenon that can be visited exclusively during winter. Each summer, the old ice caves collapse and melt, and new ice caves form instead every winter. So, even if you come to Iceland two years in a row, you won't see the same ice cave twice!
The ultimate winter activity – snowmobiling in Iceland
February, when the ground is covered in thick snow, is a perfect occasion for the ultimate winter activity – snowmobiling! Speed over the icy slopes of the glacier while admiring the never-ending snowy landscape. This exhilarating activity will feel out of this planet!
Guided glacier hiking tour on Solheimajokull glacier in South Iceland
It comes as no surprise that glacier hiking is one of the best things to do in Iceland during February. It is when you can explore the landscape of frozen rivers and snowy slopes. If you're a beginner, try out an easy glacier hike in Skaftafell or Solheimajokull to get a glimpse of what the glaciers are like. If you want to take your glacier experience to an extreme, you might want to check out a glacier hike with an ice climbing adventure!
Pro tip: on a sunny day, don't forget to bring your sunglasses or even sunscreen to a glacier hike. The sun reflects from the ice, creating a mirror effect and you might even get a sunburn while on a glacier!
In case the weather gets completely intolerable, there's always somewhere to hide. Lava caves are one of the best places to hide from rain and strong winds. Explore the underground world of these centuries-old lava tubes!
Couple snorkeling in Silfra Fissure between two tectonic plates in Iceland
Iceland is home to probably one of the top places on Earth for snorkeling and diving – Silfra fissure located in Thingvellir National Park. Even though diving is restricted to only certified divers, everyone can snorkel! By looking down at Silfra you'll see the two tectonic plates on both sides. Silfra fissure is also known for its excellent visibility – on a sunny day, you can see down as much as 100 meters!
Don't miss out on the snorkeling experience when visiting Iceland in winter!
Bathe in hot springs after a full day of hiking or exploring
Being geothermally active, Iceland is a true paradise of natural hot springs. Bathing in one of them after a full day of hiking and exploring is soothing for both body and soul. There are many hot springs tours to choose from. Among the most popular ones are Blue Lagoon and Sky Lagoon, both located close to Reykjavik, Secret Lagoon and Myvatn Nature Baths.
From music festivals to Valentine's Day and Women's Day, February in Iceland is buzzing with action.
Winter Lights Festival
Winter Lights Festival is a four-day event that usually takes place on the first weekend of February. It is the time when the days are getting longer, and to celebrate that Icelanders light it up even more. The festival begins with lights being turned on in the streets of Reykjavik and is followed by four days of events. The most iconic of them are Museum Night, Swimming Pool Night, and the Northern Lights Run. You sure don't want to miss those!
Valentine's Day
There's no special way to celebrate Valentine's Day in Iceland, but there are lots of ways to make it special if you happen to be here during this time. Spend it with your loved one by booking a spa in Blue Lagoon or watching the wonderful Northern Lights dancing in the night sky. If you decide to stay in Reykjavik, there are plenty of restaurants offering a special menu.
Have a special Valentine's Day in Iceland under the sky full of Northern Lights
Rainbow Reykjavik
The Rainbow Reykjavik is a smaller and more intimate version of the main pride event that takes place in August. This event is usually held four days in February or March to celebrate equality and diversity. The festivities include the welcome party and the Pink Masquerade Ball, filled with costumes and glamour.
Know someone visiting Iceland in February? Share this with them!
