Why you should visit Iceland in December?
Travelling during winter in Nordic countries can be fantastic and a little concerning if you’re not a fan of cold, grey weather. But most of the time, travelling to snowy white countries is incredible.
Iceland is no exception. During winter, you can experience some of the most beautiful moments even if there are almost 4 hours of daylight.
December is one of the darkest months in Iceland, but that doesn’t mean you will not enjoy your trip.
It is one of the most colourful months because of the Christmas holiday and natural phenomena like the Northern lights, pastel sunsets and sometimes Glitský (polar stratospheric clouds).
Weather in Iceland in December
December in Iceland is typically cold, with temperatures ranging from around -1°C to 3°C (30°F to 37°F) in Reykjavik, the capital city. In other parts of the country, temperatures can drop lower in the north and higher elevations.
Expect short daylight hours with only a few hours, and be prepared for a mix of rain, snow, and strong winds. The weather can be unpredictable, so it’s advisable to dress in layers and be ready for changing conditions if you visit Iceland in December.
How to dress for Iceland in December?
Are you planning a winter escapade to Iceland? Due to its cold temperatures and unpredictable weather, December in this Nordic wonderland offers a magical yet challenging experience.
To make the most of your trip, dressing appropriately is essential. Here’s your comprehensive guide on how to stay warm and comfortable while indulging in the wonders of Iceland’s December.
Dressing Strategy: Layer, Layer, Layer
1. Base Layer: Start your attire with a reliable base layer crafted from thermal, moisture-wicking fabrics. Consider materials like Merino wool or synthetic fibres to keep you warm and dry.
2. Insulating Layer: Add an insulating layer on your base. A cosy fleece or down jacket will effectively trap heat and keep you snug amidst the chilly Icelandic air.
3. Outer Layer: The outermost layer should be water- and windproof. Opt for a sturdy jacket that offers insulation, or pair your waterproof layer with a separate insulated one for added warmth.
4. Legwear: Just like your upper body, layering for your legs is crucial. Thermal leggings beneath waterproof and windproof pants will keep your lower half warm and protected.
5. Accessories: Don’t overlook the necessity of warm accessories. Equip yourself with gloves, a hat that covers your ears, a scarf or neck gaiter, and robust waterproof boots with excellent traction for navigating potential icy surfaces.
6. Socks: Keep your feet cosy and dry with thick, moisture-wicking socks. Consider thermal socks for extra warmth, especially during outdoor adventures.
7. Eye Protection: Snow-covered landscapes can be harsh on the eyes. Ensure you have sunglasses or goggles that shield against UV rays and minimize glare.
Embrace the Adventure
By dressing in these layers, you’ll be equipped to fully relish the various activities Iceland has to offer during December. Whether exploring magnificent glaciers, marvelling at enchanting waterfalls, or unwinding in geothermal hot springs, your preparedness ensures you’ll stay comfortable and warm amidst the diverse Icelandic landscapes.
Remember, the key is to stay warm, dry, and shielded from the winds. With the proper clothing, your Icelandic adventure in December promises to be thrilling and comfortably cosy.
It is “the most wonderful time of the year”. Icelanders are starting to celebrate Christmas a few weeks before Christmas day, so you will have the chance to take part in the Icelandic Christmas traditions and eat delicious food.
Also, the capital Reykjavik, together with all the little towns in the country, are dressed up with Christmas decorations and lights, and there are many Christmas markets and events you can participate in.
Being the darkest month in the season, there is a higher chance of seeing the Northern lights, which is essential when you want to “hunt” them.
So, if you travel to Iceland in December, take many layers of warm clothes with you because you will probably be outside in the cold chasing the Northern lights during your stay. It is not a thing to miss.
Even if there are not many hours of daylight, you can still do some memorable activities available during the winter season. Exploring a Blue Ice Cave is one of those activities, and I can guarantee that you will never forget it.
Plan and book your tour at the Blue Ice Cave in advance, as it is more comfortable to explore it during daylight.
You can pair the Blue Ice Cave tour with a glacier hiking tour. You can choose a tour either on Vatnajökull, which is the largest glacier in Europe, or you can hike on Mýrdalsjökull, located north of Vík í Mýrdal town.
A dog-sledding tour will be the cutest part of your trip. Our furry friends here in Iceland are ready to give you a memorable experience.
Many other activities are COOLer during the winter: snowmobile tours, enjoying a geothermal bath, and enjoying museum exhibitions.
The time between the sunrise and sunset is very short, but the colours they paint the sky are incredible. If you are lucky, right before sunrise or sunset, you can see Glitský, polar stratospheric clouds forming in the polar stratosphere at altitudes of 15,000–25,000 m (49,000–82,000 ft).
“Polar stratospheric clouds form at very low temperatures, below −78 °C (−108 °F). These temperatures can occur in the lower stratosphere in polar winter. In the Antarctic, temperatures below −88 °C (−126 °F) frequently cause type II Polar stratospheric clouds.
Such low temperatures are rarer in the Arctic. In the Northern Hemisphere, the generation of lee waves by mountains may locally cool the lower stratosphere and lead to the formation of lenticular Polar stratospheric clouds.
Forward-scattering of sunlight within the clouds produces a pearly-white appearance. Particles within the optically thin clouds cause coloured interference fringes by diffraction. The visibility of the colours may be enhanced with a polarising filter.” Wikipedia
Another thing to remember is that the weather can sometimes be not very friendly. Still, you can compensate for a moody day with some delicious Icelandic dishes near the fireplace and chat with the locals.
If you want to travel to Iceland in December, you have a lot of things to do and see. There is no suitable time to visit a country; it is just about what you want to do and see there.
You can plan your trip with our travel designer and have the best time here in Iceland.
Share your Icelandic adventures with us on our social media accounts.
