Wintertime in Iceland can be truly magical when the landscapes are covered in snow and icicles while steaming heat is rising up from natural hot springs and green lights are dancing in the sky!

Here is a list of winter activities you can do in Iceland during the wintertime.

Visit natural Ice Caves in Icelandic Glaciers

Natural ice caves are one of the most unique natural wonders in Iceland due to their temporary existence. Every winter ice caves form in Vatnajökull glacier (Europe’s largest glacier) and some melt away every summer.

Since the caves can only be visited during wintertime, between November and March, it’s a number one recommendation for the winter season. Take a guided tour to explore the world underground!

Try to catch the Northern Lights

While it’s an integral activity of Icelandic winters, it’s also a very unpredictable natural wonder. They are stunningly magnificent, and there’s no wonder why people travel just to see them!

Experience exotic bathing in hot springs

Hot springs experience is especially magical during the winter. Whether you want to find a hidden hot spring in the highlands or visit one of the more popular hot springs, it will be worth it.

The most famous geothermal spa is the Blue Lagoon. It’s the most visited attraction and can become incredibly crowded.

Some of the other exotic hot springs are Reykjadalur (a hot spring river), the Secret Lagoon near Flúðir, the Nature Baths in Mývatn, Víti in Askja, Seljavallalaug, Grettislaug, Fontana geothermal baths and more.

Enjoy feeling warm during the cold Icelandic winter as you lay in a natural geothermal pool.

Go Glacier Hiking

Iceland owns many glaciers, the biggest ones are Hofsjökull, Langjökull, Vatnajökull, and Mýrdalsjökull. Hofsjökull is the most difficult to reach but the other ones are easily accessible. In wintertime, most ice hiking tours are offered on Sólheimajökull (a part of Mýrdalsjökull glacier).

It’s very important to go together with a guide who knows the area of the glacier and can keep you safe. You’ll see ice, snow, sand, ash or even rocks – everything that the ice digs out, paint the ice like a canvas! It will definitely be a highlight of your trip to Iceland!

Experience a fun dog-sledding

Nature and dog lovers shouldn’t miss out on exploring the icy landscapes from the back of a dogsled. The activity is ideal for families with children, or any adventure seeker looking to do something different. It’s possible to take a 2-hour tour of 2-4 people on each sled that’s carried by cute Siberian husky dogs.

The activity takes place on Langjökull glacier or by Lake Mývatn in northeast Iceland.

Try snowmobiling

Snowmobiling is an awesome way to explore the winter wonderland while having lots of fun! If you want a little bit of action and adrenaline, it’s a great trip to go on. For those who want to take it slow, it’s also an option, since you’re in control of your own snowmobile. Snowmobiling is available on Mýrdalsjökull and Langjökull glaciers, as well as in Akureyri.

Sightseeing

The Golden Circle, Snæfellsnes peninsula, Reykjanes peninsula and Akureyri are all accessible during the wintertime. Also the south coast, including Reynisfjara Black Sand beach, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Vík, and many waterfalls – Seljalandsfoss, Gljúfrafoss, Skógafoss, Stjórnarfoss are accessible.

The Westfjords are the most distant area and many mountain roads are often closed during the wintertime, but the East part usually gets heavy snow and lots of ice, so it’s not recommended driving there.

Local tour guides and excursions in Iceland:

Northern Lights tour, Waterfalls, Fjords, Bus transfer and many more. Book tours, attractions, and activities on the world’s largest online platform GET YOUR GUIDE. Best price guarantee!

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