This is the last episode in my series about the months in Iceland and what to expect.
Visiting Iceland in December is a magical experience, often described as stepping into a winter wonderland. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what you can expect, from weather conditions to the must-do activities, road conditions and more.
Weather and Average Temperature During December in Iceland
December in Iceland is quite cold, with average temperatures ranging from -1°C to 4°C (30°F to 39°F). It’s not uncommon for the temperature to drop below freezing, especially at night and in the more northern parts of the country. The weather can be unpredictable, with possible snowfall, rain, and windstorms, so it’s essential to check the forecast regularly.
Daylight Hours in December
One of the most distinctive features of Icelandic winters is the limited daylight. In December, the sun rises around 11:00 AM and sets by 4:00 PM, giving you about 5 hours of daylight. This unique phenomenon is due to Iceland’s high latitude.
What to Wear in December in Iceland
Layering is key to staying warm and comfortable in Iceland’s winter weather. Start with thermal underwear, add fleece or wool layers, and top with a waterproof and windproof jacket.
Don’t forget a hat, gloves, and a scarf to protect against the chill. Waterproof boots with good traction are essential for navigating icy paths.
Also, the ground is normally covered in snow and ice, so I highly recommend having your microspikes with you because those will come in handy. If the forecast is especially chilly, I often bring hand warmers with me because my hands get cold easily. Also, wool socks or some really good thermal socks come in clutch during this month too.
The link to my microspikes and where you can rent microspikes in Reykjavík.
Know exactly what to pack for Iceland by getting my free Ultimate Packing Checklist.
Road Conditions & Driving
Winter driving in Iceland can be challenging due to snow, ice, and reduced visibility. Roads can be slippery, and some might be closed due to harsh weather. It’s crucial to have a 4WD vehicle, check the road conditions at the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration (Vegagerðin) website and Safetravel.si regularly, and be prepared for winter driving. Always have an emergency kit in your car.
The Best Local Company to Rent a Car in Iceland
Go Car Rental Iceland
If you plan to explore Iceland on your own when you visit, I highly recommend using Go Car Rental Iceland. They are a local Icelandic car rental company that has great customer service, a large variety of cars and very competitive prices. Use my code Iceland10 to save 10% off the entire cost of your rental car.
I personally use them for when I go on adventures, and I’m so glad to hear that many of my listeners and subscribers are also having a great experience with them. I mentioned in a previous episode that one of my listeners switched to Go Car Rental Iceland from one of the internationally known rental car companies here and she saved $400! That was for a rental during the summer when prices can sometimes double due to demand.
Go Campers
If you plan to use a campervan, use my code Iceland7 to save 7% and get two free duvets with your GO Campers van rental. Also, I have a great episode coming up soon about how to choose the right camper van for your travels in Iceland, so keep an eye out for that.
Expert Trip Planning Tips for December
One of the best tips I have for December in Iceland is to be prepared for potential delays or cancellations because of storms. To be fair, we normally have a lot more wind and snowstorms during January and February, but they certainly can happen in December too.
Having a flexible approach to your plans is key so that you can manage your expectations. As I have mentioned in previous winter episodes, you might have to slow down if the roads are very icy and that’s ok Lastly, please heed the warnings about severe winter storms and if it is advised to stay off the road. Visitors underestimate the weather here all the time and they end up having to be rescued by Iceland’s Search and Rescue team.
Why You Should Visit Iceland in December
Despite the cold and darkness, December is a fantastic time to visit Iceland because of its unique winter beauty, and the chance to experience Icelandic Christmas traditions. If you visit during the very beginning of December there are usually less tourists but that changes are the middle of the month rolls around.
Top Activities to Do in December
- Northern Lights: The long nights provide a perfect backdrop for viewing the aurora borealis, one of Iceland’s most sought-after experiences.
- Ice Caving and Glacier Hiking: Explore stunning blue ice caves in Vatnajökull National Park or go glacier hiking on Solheimajokull.
- Geothermal Pools: Relax in geothermal hot springs like the Blue Lagoon or the Sky Lagoon. The contrast of the cold air and the warm water is invigorating.
- Snowmobiling and Dog Sledding: Thrill-seekers can enjoy snowmobiling on a glacier or dog sledding through winter landscapes.
- Christmas Markets and Festivities: Experience Icelandic Christmas traditions and markets, especially in Reykjavik.
December Events and Holidays
- Christmas (Jól): Icelanders celebrate Christmas with great enthusiasm, with celebrations starting on December 23rd and lasting until the 26th. Expect beautiful decorations, festive lights, and traditional events throughout the country.
- Christmas Beers and spirits
- Christmas Buffets
- Christmas Markets
- New Year’s Eve: Icelanders welcome the new year with spectacular fireworks displays, especially in Reykjavik. The sky at midnight is a sight to behold, with fireworks visible in every direction.
- Shooting off fireworks
- Partying downtown
I have another episode that goes more in-depth into 7 wonderful ways to experience Christmas in Iceland and that is linked in the description of this episode.
Iceland Trip Planning Resources
Before hopping into the random fact of the episode, I want to share some Iceland trip planning resources. I’ve received many amazing emails from listeners of the podcast and followers on social media asking me for my advice on what to do in Iceland. Due to the high demand for this information, I created some resources.
Video Consultation with Me for Your Trip
One of the resources is that if you’re interested in getting personalized trip planning advice from me, you can book me for a consultation via this link. After you fill out a survey and pick a time that is available for both of us, we do a one-hour video chat via Google Meet.
During this time, we chat about your interest, parts of the country you want to visit, how to get the most out of your time, helpful information to know about Iceland before coming, and any questions that you have. I always feel delighted when I hear at the end of the call that people feel even more excited about their upcoming trip because of the consultation.
Make Your Own Itinerary with My Iceland Map
Another great resource is to grab full access to my Iceland map. This map was created for those who want to pick out places and hidden gems around Iceland to make up their own itinerary or add to one that they already created.
With full access, you get over 250 places that I recommend in Iceland, along with four itineraries to use for planning your trip. Those itineraries include a 10-day Ring Road trip, a 3-day South Iceland trip, The Famous Golden Circle and a Reykjanes Peninsula Day Trip.
A one-time purchase gives you lifetime access, which includes any updates I make to the map.
Here is a link to my Iceland map: rexby.com/jewells/Iceland.
Random Fact of the Episode
If you are in Iceland on December 23rd, it is when Icelanders eat Skata or fermented skate. It is a very smelly dish that can be smelled down the block. If you decide to try it, make sure to wear some clothes that are old that you can get rid of or that you don’t mind having a stench.
Icelandic Word of the Episode
December in Icelandic is spelled Desember and pronounced slightly different.
Gleðileg jól – Merry Christmas
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