Iceland in December: Everything You Need to Know Before You Visit

Are you planning on visiting Iceland in December? Our first ever trip was during the winter months and here’s everything you need to know about visiting.

Iceland is beautiful all year round. But there’s something about December there that I just loved. Admittedly, it’s the darkest month of the year, so it’s a bit of an acquired taste. But it’s also super festive, especially in Reykjavik, and a great time to see the Northern Lights.

Our first-ever trip to Iceland was in mid-December, which is when the daylight is at its minimum. Yet, it was this trip where we fell in love with the country and convinced us to come back again and again. 

So, if you’re wondering whether it’s worth visiting Iceland in December, here’s our experience and everything you should know.

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Weather in December

One of the things that most people want to know before travelling to Iceland is what to expect from the weather. First of all, you can’t really predict anything. You might have storms and high winds or you might have sunny skies and snow. 

In our experience, we actually had warmer and less icy weather when we visited in December compared to our trips to Iceland in March and April.

The snowiest months in Iceland tend to be January and February, so later on in the winter, you’ll find more of a build-up of snow. December is technically the start of winter and the end of autumn, so the snow is just starting to pile up in December.

That’s not to say that there won’t be snow at all – there will almost definitely be some – but if you’re looking for a crisp, white, winter wonderland, I’d recommend a trip in February instead. 

In December, you’re likely to experience rain, wind, sleet, and snow. The average temperatures are usually between -1°C to 3°C (30°F to 37°F) in Reykjavik and the south of Iceland, and even colder in Akureyri and the north, where they can drop to -6°C (21°F).

👉Check out our full guide to the best time to visit Iceland for all our tips.

How much does it snow in Iceland in December?

In December, Iceland receives moderate snowfall. When we visited, it didn’t actually snow, but there was snow on the ground. This was more around the Golden Circle and a little along the south coast, but virtually none in Reykjavik.

The coastal areas and the capital tend to have milder winters with much less consistent snowfall. You’re more likely to get rain than snow.

In comparison, the northern areas, inland, and higher altitudes get much heavier snowfall throughout December. These places can have between 10-30 cm (4-12 inches) of snow, and sometimes more if you head into the mountains.

This is great for winter activities, glacier hiking, and ice cave tours, and the landscapes can become a true winter wonderland. But snow in December is unpredictable in Iceland. Some areas receive regular snowfall while others see only a light dusting.

👉Check out our full Iceland winter itinerary for all our tips.

Daylight Hours in December

The second most popular question about spending December in Iceland is the daylight. December is one of the darkest months to visit, with only about 4-5 hours of daylight each day, especially around the winter solstice. 

The sun typically rises around 11 a.m. and sets by 3 or 4 p.m., so you’ll need to plan your activities within this window. The exception, of course, is things like a geothermal spa or Northern Light tours, which can be done at night. 

Although the limited daylight might seem challenging, it can also be beautiful. The long twilight can extend the sunrise and sunset, and the season is ideal for seeing the aurora.

So, although the darkness might put some people off, it’s not as bad as you might think, and there are definitely some upsides. 

What to do in Iceland in December

There are lots of amazing things to do in Iceland in December, the problem is usually fitting it all in before it gets dark!

You can visit the Golden Circle, tour the south coast, see Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, and chase waterfalls like the famous Skogafoss, which looks amazing in winter. 

There are also plenty of things that you can only do in the winter months, like Northern Lights tours, and exploring certain ice caves. It’s also a great time for glacier hiking. We went hiking on Solheimajokull Glacier in December and loved it!

Plus, you’ll get to see all the festivities like Christmas markets, decorations, and lights in Reykjavik and other towns. Many of the restaurants will be selling warm mulled wine and gingerbread, and you may even find market stalls selling these things too.

I recommend asking about Iceland’s quirky Christmas folklore, including the mischievous Yule Lads. We learnt about these guys on a food tour, and it was very interesting.

Plus, it’s well worth visiting a geothermal spa in winter. It’s even more unique to soak in the warm waters of the Blue Lagoon under the starry sky, surrounded by snow.

Driving in Iceland in December

One of the best ways to get around Iceland is by hiring a car and driving yourself. However, this is often much more of a challenge in the winter months than at other times of the year. 

December can have especially poor driving conditions due to unpredictable weather, sudden snowfall, and early darkness. So, it’s crucial to be prepared for icy roads, reduced visibility, and potentially difficult driving situations.

Ensure your rental car is equipped with winter tyres and, if possible, opt for a 4×4 vehicle for better traction on slippery surfaces. Plus, always check road conditions before heading out, as some routes may be closed due to snow or ice.

We use safe.is, an app which is always up to date with road closures. We also recommend planning your trips during daylight hours where possible.

Best Tours to Take in December

Since many people choose to base themselves in Reykjavik in winter, you’ll find tours departing from the city every day in the winter months.

Tours to the Golden Circle and the South Coast are the most popular. These were the two tours we took during our December trip, and they were both great fun. 

As well as this, Northern Lights Tours are always a good idea in winter.

You can spot the lights on your own if you stay in a remote location, but many companies provide guided tours to maximise your chances of seeing the auroras. They will usually take you to the best viewing spots based on real-time weather and solar activity.

December is one of the best times to go glacier hiking and exploring ice caves. We did a glacier hike tour in December and it’s still one of the best things we’ve ever done in Iceland.

Plus, some ice caves, like the Vatnajökull Ice Caves, are only open in winter.

Additionally, although this is often considered a summer activity, you can go whale-watching in December. There’s a chance to see humpback whales and orcas, especially in the north of Iceland. 

Lastly, you can book a tour of one of Iceland’s Geothermal Spas, like the Blue Lagoon or Secret Lagoon. You don’t have to book a tour to visit these places, but if you’re staying in Reykjavik, it might be easier, as it will include transport as well.

Can you see the Northern Lights in December in Iceland?

Yes, you can see the Northern Lights in December! In fact, this is one of the best times of year for seeing them because the nights are long and the skies are really dark.

Of course, seeing them is not guaranteed. December can be a bit of a mixed bag when it comes to weather, as rain and snow often means cloud. Even if the lights are there, cloudy weather can hide them completely, so you’ll need to check the forecast and solar activity.

This is why it’s sometimes better to book a guided tour because they’ll take you to the best viewing spots, taking into account cloud coverage, and giving you the best chances of seeing the lights.

Just remember to dress warmly, as December temperatures can be quite cold and you’ll be standing outside for a good few hours while waiting for them to appear. 

What to Pack for Iceland in December

In our opinion, the most important things to remember about packing for Iceland in winter are layers and waterproofs.

Start with a moisture-wicking base layer. Then, add an insulating mid-layer like fleece or down for warmth, and finish with a waterproof, windproof outer layer to protect against rain, snow, and icy winds. 

Waterproof gloves, a warm hat, and a scarf are essential to keep extremities warm, along with thermal socks and sturdy, waterproof boots with good traction for icy surfaces.

And, if you plan to take photos or look for the Northern Lights, consider bringing a camera tripod and spare batteries, as batteries tend to drain quickly in the cold. 

👉 Grab our Iceland Winter Packing List for the full list!

Pros and Cons of Visiting Iceland in December

There are mixed opinions on visiting Iceland in December. We loved it but some people would definitely prefer to visit in the summer months. Here are a few pros and cons:

On the pros side, December offers some wonderful winter landscapes with snow-covered fields, icy waterfalls, and the chance to see the Northern Lights. 

There are also fewer tourists compared to the summer, so you’ll often find cheaper prices. Plus, you can enjoy holiday festivities, Christmas markets, and Iceland’s cosy winter atmosphere. 

For the cons, the limited daylight, with only about 4-5 hours of sunlight, means you’ll need to plan your activities carefully.

The weather can be quite harsh and unpredictable, with snow, wind, and icy roads that may make travel challenging. Some remote areas might be completely inaccessible. 

However, if you’re prepared for winter conditions and short days, December can offer a truly unforgettable Icelandic experience.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Iceland in December

Overall, we had a wonderful time when we visited Iceland in December. It was our first time ever visiting the country and it was during this trip that we fell in love with it. The scenery was outstanding and the whole country felt alive despite the early nights.

Yes, on one occasion we had sideways rain and it did feel very odd joining a tour group at 10am when it was still pitch black, but this only added to the uniqueness of the trip. Although it was dark when we set off, we got to watch the most beautiful sunrise. 

If you’re planning a trip to Iceland in December, I hope this article has given you a clearer picture of what to expect. It’ll definitely be a unique adventure, but who knows – December might make you fall in love with Iceland, just as it did for us.

If you have any questions, ask us anything in our free Facebook Group.

👉 Haven’t worked out where to stay yet? Here are all of our favourite hotels on the South Coast.