The coldest month doesn’t mean less to do—January is great for exploring glaciers, hot springs, and more. Short days don’t stop Iceland from being a top travel destination!
Iceland in January is usually at its coldest, but also its most magical, with Northern Lights, frozen waterfalls, and fewer crowds than the December holidays. As of 2026, January remains one of the most budget-friendly winter months, with plenty of tours operating despite the short days. Explore Reykjavík, travel the South Coast, discover the Golden Circle, and step onto Europe’s largest glacier, Vatnajökull. The key to a smooth trip is understanding the weather, packing smartly, and planning activities around the limited daylight—here’s all you need to know.
Average temperature in Iceland in January. Source: timeanddate.com
The weather in Iceland in January is snowy, windy, and can change in a heartbeat, with average temperatures around 0°C (32°F). Sharp gusts often make it feel colder than the thermometer shows, especially around open plateaus and waterfalls. Online forecasts like the Icelandic Met Office help you plan, but conditions vary across regions—milder around Reykjavík and harsher in the north, south, and Highlands.
Regional Overview:
In January, temperatures stay close to freezing, fluctuating between −4°C (25°F) and 4°C (39°F). According to the World Bank’s Climate Knowledge Portal, Iceland has been warming by about 0.2 °C per decade, though January 2026 is expected to resemble recent winters. Based on yearly weather records from 1992 to 2021, average January temperatures around Reykjavík ranged between −2 °C and 3 °C (28–37 °F).
According to Statistics Iceland, average January wind speeds range from 20 km/h to 36 km/h (12–22mph), depending on region and elevation. However, strong gusts can exceed 70 km/h (43 mph), especially along the South Coast, where open plains and ocean exposure amplify storms. Snow, sleet, hail, and rain are all possible within the same day. Precipitation is heaviest in the south, west, and east. Snowstorms often make Highland roads impassable, so check real-time road conditions before heading out and drive slowly around icy bends.
Safety note: Always close your car doors securely. Icelandic winds are strong enough to bend or rip doors off their hinges.
Low winter sun casting long shadows across Iceland’s snowy coast. Photo by Arctic Adventures.
The average number of daylight hours in Iceland in January is 5 hours per day. On January 1, the sun in Reykjavík rises at 11:19 AM and sets at 3:43 PM, giving just over 4 hours of light. By late January, sunrise moves to 10:15 AM and sunset to 4:45 PM. Plan outdoor activities between late morning and early afternoon to make the most of daylight.
Bright auroras light up Iceland’s night sky during long hours of darkness. Photo by Gunnar Gaukur for Arctic Adventures.
Luckily, you are very likely to see the Northern Lights in Iceland in January. With the 2026 solar maximum and 16–20 hours of darkness, January is one of the best months for Northern Lights viewing. Displays often start around 9 PM and last past midnight, lighting the sky in shades of green, pink, and violet. Arctic Adventures operates nightly aurora tours with Super Jeeps and minibuses in scenic locations, offering retries if no lights appear.
Kerið crater in winter, one of the Golden Circle’s scenic stops. Photo by Arctic Adventures.
Winter sightseeing, Northern Lights, and all kinds of glacial activities are the top things to do in Iceland in January. The best spots to visit are snow-covered lava fields on the Reykjanes peninsula, frozen waterfalls like Gullfoss, and steamy geysers on the legendary Golden Circle. Glacier hiking, snowmobiling, and ice caving are winter highlights for those craving adventure. Wrap it all up with a soak in a geothermal spa—the perfect way to end a thrill-filled day.
The best chance to see the Aurora Borealis in Iceland is on a guided tour. Local experts track live forecasts, taking you to cloudless zones for optimal visibility on tours departing from Reykjavík, Vík, or Akureyri. You can chase the aurora with a Super Jeep or observe its colorful ribbons from a boat. For a cozy experience, join a minibus Northern Lights tour with hot cocoa and sweets. Guides capture photos of you and your loved ones beneath the glowing sky. Later, you can download these memories online. You can also take your own pictures of the lights' dance.
Northern Lights Photography Tips:
Exploring a natural winter ice cave in Langjökull. Photo taken by Gunnar Gaukur on one of our tours.
Cold temperatures keep Iceland’s ice fields stable in January, revealing natural caves and creating excellent conditions for guided glacier hikes. Walk on Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier, and its outlets, which hide deep crevasses and crystal blue tunnels. Explore ash-striped ice and walk between towering frozen walls inside a glacier maze in Skaftafell.
Best Ice Caves to Visit in 2026:
Safety note: You can hike on glaciers and enter ice caves only with a professional guide—hidden crevasses and shifting ice make independent access dangerous.
Riders crossing fresh snow on Langjökull glacier in January. Photo by Arctic Adventures.
Snowmobiling across Iceland’s glaciers is a classic winter adventure for the whole family. Arctic Adventures organizes daily rides on Langjökull, Eyjafjallajökull, or Vatnajökull with expert guides, providing insulated suits, gloves, and helmets for warmth and safety. Calm weather after fresh snowfall in January brings excellent visibility of mountain ridges and distant ice caps.
For a different kind of glacier thrill, try ice-climbing on Sólheimajökull. Learn the basics from certified guides, use crampons and ice axes to conquer glittering walls, and build confidence with each step!
Climber ascending an ice wall on Sólheimajökull. Photo by Arctic Adventures.
Whale watching vessel approaching a surfacing whale in winter waters. Photo by Gunnar Gaukur.
Even in midwinter, Iceland’s coastal waters are home to humpback and minke whales, dolphins, and porpoises. January is a rewarding time to join a whale-watching tour, when calm seas and low light create excellent conditions for photography. Arctic Adventures runs trips from Reykjavík in the southwest and Dalvík in North Iceland—two of the best spots to meet these gentle giants up close.
January top whale-watching spots:
Krauma Geothermal Spa in winter. Image courtesy of Krauma.
After a day in the cold, Iceland’s geothermal baths feel like a gift from nature itself. Fed by glacier-filtered water and natural minerals, these hot springs have been part of local life for centuries—a place to relax and warm up surrounded by snow. Slip into the steam, watch the mist rise, and feel your body thaw—it’s Iceland’s purest form of recharge.
Top Winter Soaks:
Snow-covered streets in Reykjavik are common winter conditions in Iceland. Photo by Arctic Adventures.
Driving in Iceland weather in January is possible but can be challenging. Roads are icy, daylight is short, and snowstorms reduce visibility. Route 1 (the Ring Road) is generally well-maintained, but rural paths and mountain passes often close due to snow or flooding. Arctic Adventures recommends guided tours in January for travelers inexperienced with Nordic winter driving.
Campervans are also an option in January for travelers who want flexibility and built-in heating, as long as they’re comfortable with winter roads. Happy Campers offers winter-equipped vans with studded tires and strong insulation for cold nights.
Safe driving tips for January:
How to dress in Icelandic winter. Source: Arctic Adventures.
Iceland’s January weather demands layered, waterproof clothing built for freezing temperatures, strong winds, and snow. Locals rely on Icelandic wool—warm, breathable, and quick-drying. Merino and synthetic fabrics also perform well, keeping you dry and insulated. Arctic Adventures provides helmets, overalls, and crampons on winter tours, but your base layers and outerwear make the biggest difference in comfort.
Dress in three layers: a thermal base, an insulating middle, and a waterproof shell. Start with wool or synthetic underwear, add a fleece or wool sweater, and finish with a parka and shell pants rated at least 5,000 mm for rain and wind resistance. Wear broken-in, waterproof boots with a firm grip—essential on icy streets and trails. Avoid jeans or cotton, as they absorb moisture and lose warmth.
Pack light but practical—every item should protect from wind, moisture, or cold. Complete your packing list with must-have accessories and skincare.
Thermal layers: Wool or synthetic long-sleeve tops and leggings.
Mid-layer: Fleece or wool sweater for insulation.
Outerwear: Waterproof jacket and pants (≥5,000 mm rating).
Footwear: Waterproof boots with ankle support and grip soles.
Microspikes: For icy trails and waterfall paths.
Accessories: Hat, scarf, gloves, sunglasses, and a thermos.
Backpack: Waterproof daypack (25–30 L) for layers and essentials.
Swimwear: For hot springs or spas like the Blue Lagoon or Secret Lagoon.
Skincare: Lip balm, oil-based face cream, and hand lotion.
Winter scene at Hallgrímskirkja in downtown Reykjavík. Photo taken by Gunnar Gaukur.
Reykjavík in January is a calm, snow-dusted capital where soft winter light, culture, and cozy city life blend beautifully. The frozen Tjörnin Pond and twinkling lights along Laugavegur capture the city’s quiet charm, while warm cafés, museums, and steaming pools keep it lively. Most glacier, ice cave, and Northern Lights tours begin and end here, making Reykjavík the perfect base for winter exploration.
Museums & Exhibitions
Reykjavík’s museums remain open through winter, usually from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. At the National Museum of Iceland, explore the country’s story through Viking artifacts and interactive exhibits. The Perlan Museum features an indoor ice cave and sweeping 360° city views. Art enthusiasts can enjoy the Reykjavík Art Museum and Marshall House, both of which display contemporary Icelandic artists’ works. Entry is usually free for children, and the Reykjavík City Card provides discounted access.
Pools & Spas
Outdoor swimming is part of daily life here, even in midwinter. Heated by volcanic energy, Reykjavík’s pools stay open year-round—a warm contrast to the chilly air. Admission costs around 1,300 ISK (~$9) for adults. Laugardalslaug, the largest pool, has hot tubs, steam baths, and slides, open 6:30 AM to 10:00 PM. Locals favor Vesturbæjarlaug for its relaxed vibe and Sundhöllin, Reykjavík’s oldest pool, for its rooftop hot tubs overlooking the city.
Bars & Nightlife
When night falls, Reykjavík glows with life. Along Laugavegur and Austurstræti, bars and music venues fill with laughter, local beer, and live performances. Kaldi Bar, voted one of the best in the city by Vogue Scandinavia, is known for its Icelandic craft brews and warm atmosphere. Húrra and Kex Hostel often host indie bands. Most places stay open until 1:00 AM on weekdays and 4:30 AM on weekends, making the capital shine long after sunset.
Even after Christmas ends, January in Iceland stays lively with fireworks, sports, and music festivals that brighten the dark winter days. Confirmed dates for 2026 include long-standing traditions and annual events held in Reykjavík and beyond.
New Year’s Eve & Þrettándinn—January 1 & January 6, 2026
New Year’s Eve in Reykjavík fills the sky with fireworks and celebrations. Locals dine around 8:30 PM, then gather near Hallgrímskirkja Church for the midnight countdown and bonfires lasting past 1:00 AM. Þrettándinn, on January 6, marks the end of Christmas with bonfires, fireworks, and stories of the 13 Yule Lads returning to the mountains.
Reykjavík International Games—January 21–26, 2026
The Reykjavík International Games (RIG) bring athletes from across Europe to Iceland’s biggest indoor sports event. Over 20 disciplines—from athletics to e-sports—take place at Laugardalshöll Arena, turning the capital into a winter sports hub. Tickets cost about 1,000 ISK (~$7) per session.
Dark Music Days Festival—January 29–31, 2026
The Dark Music Days Festival transforms Reykjavík’s long nights into a celebration of contemporary and experimental sound. Held at Harpa Concert Hall and Hallgrímskirkja, it features Icelandic and Nordic artists, such as John McCowen and Ásta Fanney Sigurðardóttir, and others. Tickets start at 2,500 ISK (~$18).
January tours in Iceland center around glaciers, ice caves, and Northern Lights. Despite short days, tour schedules stay full, with flexible departures from Reykjavík and South Iceland. Arctic Adventures, a Vakinn-certified operator, runs small-group trips year-round, providing safety gear and expert guides who know how to navigate changing weather.
Visit Iceland in January—browse the top winter tours below and plan your adventure across Iceland’s icy landscapes, from glacier tunnels to geothermal lagoons.
Yes, January is an excellent time to visit Iceland if you want to experience white winter landscapes, ice caves, and the Northern Lights. The month is quieter than December, with lower prices and fewer tourists. Despite short daylight hours, many tours still run daily from Reykjavík, including snowmobiling, Golden Circle, and South Coast adventures.
Expect temperatures around freezing, averaging 0°C (32°F) across the country. Reykjavík stays between -2°C and 3°C (28–37°F), while the north can drop to -5°C (23°F) or lower. Wind often makes it feel colder than it is, especially in open areas and near the coast.
Yes, January provides excellent aurora watching conditions with long nights and intense solar activity during the 2026 maximum. The best sightings happen on clear, calm nights away from city lights—try areas like Thingvellir, the South Coast, or the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Apps and forecast websites help track real-time visibility before heading out.
Yes, snow is common throughout January, especially in northern and highland regions. Reykjavík often alternates between light snow and rain, while inland valleys remain white for weeks. The snowy landscape transforms waterfalls, lava fields, and glaciers into an incredible backdrop for winter photos.
Daylight gradually increases through January, from about 4 hours at the start of the month to nearly 7 hours by the end. Sunrise in Reykjavík occurs around 11:15 AM early in the month, with sunset near 4 PM. Plan outdoor activities around midday to make the most of the light.
Driving in Iceland in January is possible but requires caution. Roads can be icy, winds are strong, and daylight is limited. A 4×4 vehicle with winter tires is essential. Check weather forecasts for storms and road conditions for closures before setting out. Those new to winter driving often prefer guided tours for safety and comfort.
Layering is key: start with thermal underwear, add a warm wool or fleece mid-layer, and finish with a waterproof outer shell. Choose insulated, waterproof boots with a firm grip. Accessories like hats, gloves, scarves, and crampons for ice all help you stay warm and safe outdoors.
Winter tours include glacier hikes, ice cave visits, snowmobiling, and geothermal spa trips. Northern Lights excursions operate nightly when weather allows. The Golden Circle and South Coast routes stay open year-round, though departures often adjust to daylight and road conditions.
Reykjavík is the best base for most January travelers, with easy access to daily tours and city comforts. For quieter stays near nature, Vík, Hella, and Skaftafell are great options close to glaciers and lagoons. Book early—many countryside lodges close temporarily or fill up during the aurora season.
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