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Let’s explore the “ice” in the Land of Fire and Ice with these 10 must-try sports and activities.
The Magic of Iceland’s Winter
When you think of Iceland, you might picture otherworldly landscapes, the famous Blue Lagoon, and the breathtaking Northern Lights. But did you know that Iceland’s winter season offers even more unforgettable experiences? As the temperature drops, Iceland transforms into a winter wonderland, providing an ideal setting for a variety of winter tours and winter activities.
Iceland’s winter months, from November to March, offer a unique opportunity for travelers seeking thrilling adventures and serene escapes. In fact, during winter, days in Iceland are remarkably short, with just 4-5 hours of daylight, making it the perfect time for stargazing and Northern Lights viewing!
In this guide, we’ll show you ten amazing activities to make the most of your winter trip to Iceland. We’ll also list the best spots to find accommodations so you can access winter destinations easily. So, let’s bundle up and get right to it!
Top 10 Winter Sports & Activities in Iceland
Iceland’s diverse and captivating landscapes offer a myriad of thrilling activities to enjoy during the winter months. Let’s dive into the top 10 winter sports and activities you should include in your Iceland winter tour itinerary.
1. GLACIER HIKING
It’s not an adventure in Iceland if it doesn’t involve, well, ice! Experience the breathtaking beauty of Iceland’s glaciers as you hike across their icy surfaces. Feel the crisp, cold air on your face while listening to the creaking and groaning of the glacier beneath your feet. Glacier hiking is an exhilarating and humbling experience as you witness the true force of nature and marvel at the geological history of these frozen giants.
Glacier hikes are available on various glaciers, such as Sólheimajökull and Vatnajökull. They can be done any time of the year, with the peak season for glacier hiking in Iceland being November to March.
2. SNOWMOBILING
Iceland’s vast open fields and rolling valleys are great for hiking and trekking, but who would want to pass up the opportunity to zip across them on a snowmobile? Feel the adrenaline rush with the engine’s roar as you carve across a glacier or a frozen lake! Snowmobiling is a great way to treat yourself to stunning views of the icy terrain. It also makes visiting nearby attractions such as ice caves, waterfalls, and frozen lakes infinitely easier.
Snowmobiling is popular on glaciers such as Langjökull, Mýrdalsjökull, and Vatnajökull. It can also be done on Lake Mývatn when the water has frozen over and is thick enough. If you intend to ride atop a glacier, snowmobiling is available year-round. For the best snowy experience, however, we recommend going anytime from November to March.
3. ICE CLIMBING
If you really want to challenge yourself, we recommend ice climbing. This may come across as a winter activity more befitting advanced climbers, but Iceland’s guided tours cater to all levels. Feel the satisfying crunch of your ice axe and crampons as you ascend the stunning ice formations. Ice climbing allows you to discover hidden gems, such as frozen waterfalls and icy crevasses, that very few experience.
Ice climbing is available in several locations across the country, including Sólheimajökull Glacier and Vatnajökull National Park, with the peak season being from late October to the end of May. Again, if you intend to climb a glacier, then it doesn’t matter what time of the year you visit!
4. ICE-CAVING
Ice-caving is a great winter activity for those who are visiting Iceland with family or young children. Delve into the mesmerizing world of ice caves, where you’ll be surrounded by the ethereal blue hues and the sound of dripping water echoing through the caverns. As you explore these natural wonders, you’ll learn about their unique formation process and the ever-changing nature of Iceland’s glaciers.
The best places to go ice-caving include Vatnajökull National Park, Katla Caves, and the man-made glacier tunnel inside the Langjökull Glacier. Ice-caving tours are only available around mid-November to mid-March, so time your visit accordingly.
5. NORTHERN LIGHTS HUNTING
What makes for an unforgettable journey in Iceland? Chasing the elusive and enchanting Northern Lights! Experience the awe-inspiring sight of the aurora borealis dancing across the sky, casting vibrant colors in its wake. This once-in-a-lifetime experience is a must for anyone visiting Iceland during winter.
Northern Lights hunting tours are available all over the country, with the best chances of seeing the lights between September and April. You can check out our in-depth guide to viewing the Northern Lights.
6. HORSEBACK RIDING
Iceland’s stunning winter landscapes are great for exploring on foot, but horseback riding is the way to go in the winter. Known for their smooth, soft gait, Icelandic horses make for a comfortable and enjoyable ride as you take in the breathtaking views around you. In fact, they are the only breed in the world that can perform five gaits, easily outdoing the norm of three or four. Apart from that, Icelandic horses have a deceptively small stature and grow fuzzy coats in winter, making them all the more lovable!
Horseback riding is available year-round, but winter provides an exceptional experience and a chance to spot the Northern Lights. Popular locations for horseback riding include the Reykjanes Peninsula, the Golden Circle, and the South Coast.
7. DOG SLEDDING
If you love movies like Eight Below or Togo, this is your chance to live the dream! Experience the joy of dog sledding as you glide through Iceland’s snow-covered landscapes, led by a team of enthusiastic and friendly huskies. Feel the wind in your face as you listen to the rhythmic patter of paws on snow, and enjoy the incredible bond that forms between you and your canine companions.
Dog sledding is available in various locations across Iceland, with the peak season being from December to February. Be sure to ask the tourist information center in the city you check into.
8. SKIING AND SNOWBOARDING
Iceland’s picturesque mountain ranges are more than just there to be gazed at. With various slopes and terrains suitable for all skill levels, you can carve down the mountainsides on a ski or snowboard! The best part about doing these winter activities in Iceland is that you can escape the cold and take a dip in nearby geothermal hot springs.
Skiing and snowboarding are popular in areas like Bláfjöll and Hlíðarfjall, with the best conditions typically found between December and April.
9. SUPER JEEP TOURS
Iceland’s rugged paths shouldn’t stop you from exploring this majestic country. Hop onto a Super Jeep, a modified 4×4 vehicle designed to tackle Iceland’s challenging winter landscapes, to access remote locations and stunning natural wonders. Keep an eye out for nearby attractions like geysers, waterfalls, and volcanic craters during your journey!
Super Jeep tours can be found around Iceland, with various routes and destinations available throughout the year.
10. WHALE WATCHING
Whales and marine wildlife are already majestic enough on their own, but to see them in action in The Land of Fire & Ice is a whole other thing! Wrap up warm and venture out to sea for the chance to spot humpback whales, minke whales, and even orcas. Don’t forget to watch for the playful white-beaked dolphins and harbor porpoises that can often be seen in the area.
Whale-watching tours are available in various locations, such as Reykjavík and Akureyri. Prime whale-watching season in Iceland is from April to October, but sightings are still possible during the winter months.
Where to Stay in Iceland During Your Winter Tours
It’s essential to find the perfect place to rest and get warm after your winter tour in Iceland. Here are five cities and towns that provide easy access to the incredible winter hot spots as well as other more laid-back attractions:
REYKJAVIK: As Iceland’s capital, Reykjavik is a hub of culture and activity. With a wide variety of accommodations, restaurants, and cafes, it’s an excellent base for exploring nearby attractions like the Golden Circle and the Blue Lagoon. Foodies will love the local delicacies at places like Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur and Sandholt Bakery. Don’t miss the iconic Hallgrímskirkja church and Harpa Concert Hall.
AKUREYRI: The capital of North Iceland offers a charming small-town atmosphere with excellent access to winter sports like skiing and snowboarding at the nearby Hlíðarfjall ski resort. Enjoy delicious meals at restaurants such as Rub 23 and Bryggjan, or relax at the local geothermal pool. The Akureyri Art Museum and Lystigarðurinn Botanic Garden are also worth a visit.
VÍK: The picturesque village of Vik on the South Coast provides easy access to popular sites like Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach and the stunning waterfalls of Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss. You can enjoy a cozy meal at Sudur Vik in Vik or grab a snack at the Berg Café. The village also offers a variety of accommodations and a charming church with panoramic views.
HÖFN: Höfn, situated near Vatnajökull National Park, is the perfect place for exploring the park’s wonders, including glacier hiking and ice-caving adventures. After a day of exploring, enjoy a delicious meal at Pakkhus or Kaffi Hornið. Höfn also hosts the annual Humarhátíð (lobster festival), which attracts foodies from all over the world.
EGILSSTAÐIR: Egilsstaðir, located in East Iceland, is a gateway to the beautiful landscapes of the East Fjords. The town offers a variety of accommodations, as well as facilities like the East Iceland Heritage Museum and the local geothermal swimming pool. Indulge in mouth-watering dishes at Salt Café and Bistro, or enjoy a casual meal at Klausturkaffi. The picturesque Seydisfjordur village and Skriðuklaustur historical site are nearby attractions.
Wrapping Up: The Best Adventures Start at Snowfall
Iceland’s winter season offers a wonderland of unforgettable experiences, making it the perfect destination for sports enthusiasts and thrill seekers. From glacier hiking to chasing the Northern Lights, there’s no shortage of exhilarating Iceland winter activities to add to your bucket list.
Make the most of your once-in-a-lifetime adventure by planning with Rent By Owner. We list thousands of vacation rentals, cabins, cottages, and hotels from all over the world, so you don’t have to worry about where your next adventures will take you. We also have a collection of travel guides and travel inspos to get you all dosed up with wanderlust!
TLDR
Iceland’s winter months offer a unique opportunity for travelers to enjoy thrilling sports and adventures, such as glacier hiking, snowmobiling, ice climbing, ice caving, Northern Lights hunting, dog sledding, horseback riding, skiing, and snowboarding, Super Jeep tours, and whale watching. Stay in cities or towns like Reykjavik, Akureyri, Vik, Höfn, and Egilsstaðir, which provide easy access to these activities and offer fantastic accommodations, dining, and at. Plan your trips with Rent By Owner for a comfortable and memorable Icelandic winter adventure.
