Weather & daylight
What to expect when you land in January.
Daylight
4–7 hours (sunrise ~11:20, sunset ~15:45)
Temperature
-1 to 2°C (30–36°F)
Wind & storms
Strong Atlantic storms; wind chill to -10°C
Precipitation
Snow common in lowlands; heavy in highlands and north
The honest picture
Why January works
- Best northern lights viewing — up to 19 hours of darkness
- Ice caves at peak season — vivid blue ice in Vatnajökull
- Lowest prices of the year — 40–60% off summer rates
- Minimal crowds at all major attractions
- Snow-covered volcanoes, frozen waterfalls, dramatic scenery
- Thorrablót cultural festival — uniquely Icelandic midwinter tradition
What to know before you go
- Very limited daylight — only 4–7 hours requires careful planning
- Cold and stormy weather — wind chill can be severe
- Challenging driving conditions — ice, snow, and darkness
- Highland F-roads completely closed
- Some attractions seasonal — whale watching and puffin viewing unavailable
- Weather-dependent activities — ice cave and aurora tours can be cancelled
What to do in January
The best activities for this time of year, from locals.
Northern Lights Hunting
With up to 19 hours of darkness, January offers the longest dark windows for aurora viewing. Drive 30–45 minutes from Reykjavik to escape light pollution. Popular spots include the Grotta lighthouse area, Snaefellsnes Peninsula, and the south coast. Bus tours from Reykjavik cost 6,000–9,000 ISK (40–60 EUR).
Ice Cave Exploration
January is prime season for natural ice caves inside Vatnajökull glacier. Cold temperatures keep the ice rock-solid and the blue color is at its most intense. Guided tours depart from Jökulsárlón and Skaftafell, lasting 3–4 hours including transport. Expect 19,000–25,000 ISK (130–170 EUR) per person. Book at least a week in advance.
Soak in Hot Springs
Sitting in a hot spring while snow falls and northern lights dance overhead is quintessentially January in Iceland. The Blue Lagoon (from 9,990 ISK / 70 EUR) is most famous, but Reykjavik's municipal pools like Vesturbæjarlaug offer the same geothermal water for just 1,200 ISK (8 EUR). The Reykjadalur hot river near Hveragerði is accessible with proper footwear.
Golden Circle in Winter
Þingvellir's lava fields dusted in snow, Strokkur erupting against a white backdrop, and Gullfoss partially frozen with enormous icicles — the Golden Circle is stunning in January. The route is well-maintained and can be driven in a single day even with limited daylight. Start early and carry a headlamp.
South Coast Day Trip
Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss are dramatic framed by thick ice. Reynisfjara black sand beach is hauntingly beautiful under grey winter skies. The Diamond Beach near Jökulsárlón — where glacier ice chunks wash onto black sand — is at its best in January when the low winter light makes the crystals glow. Be very careful at Reynisfjara; sneaker waves are dangerous year-round.
Glacier Walks & Snowmobiling
Glacier walks on Sólheimajökull and Vatnajökull operate throughout January, providing an intimate experience on ancient ice with crampons and a guide (from 12,000 ISK / 80 EUR). Snowmobiling on Langjökull glacier is also available from the Golden Circle area (from 22,000 ISK / 150 EUR). Both are weather-dependent — keep your itinerary flexible.
Events & festivals
What's happening across Iceland in January.
Þorrablót
Late January
A traditional midwinter festival celebrating Iceland's Viking heritage. Icelanders eat cured and fermented foods like hákarl (fermented shark) and svið (singed sheep's head). Many Reykjavik restaurants offer Þorrablót tasting menus. A unique cultural experience unlike anything in summer.
New Year hangover deals
January 1–5 (higher prices), rest of month lowest of year
The first days of January occasionally see post-New Year's Eve elevated prices (Jan 1–5). After that, January offers the year's lowest rates across flights, accommodation, and car rental.
Practical tips
Key things to know before you travel in January.
Rent a 4WD with studded winter tires — non-negotiable for January
Check road.is every morning before driving anywhere
Check vedur.is for aurora forecast and cloud cover predictions
Book ice cave tours at least a week in advance — popular slots fill quickly
Carry a headlamp for outdoor activities after the sun sets mid-afternoon
Pack thermal base layers, insulated mid-layer, and windproof outer shell
Bring ice grips or crampons for icy footpaths and viewpoints
Always bring a swimsuit — geothermal pools are open year-round