Snowstorms. Northern Lights. Roads that vanish under ice and lava fields. Iceland in winter sounds like a dare, not a vacation. But toss a campervan into the mix, and suddenly it all makes sense.
You’ve got your own wheels, your own bed, and front-row seats to nature’s weirdest light show. No overpriced hotels. No strict check-in times. Just freedom, frost, and a thermos full of strong coffee.
This guide breaks down exactly how to road trip Iceland in the winter without freezing, panicking, or spinning off the Ring Road. Ready to outsmart the cold and actually enjoy it? Let’s make a plan.
What to Expect from Iceland in the Winter in a Campervan
Visiting Iceland in winter means adjusting to a whole new rhythm. December days are short, with around 4 to 5 hours of light. The sun stays low, just skimming the horizon.
Instead of blasting the landscape with bright light, it paints everything in soft pinks and oranges. The whole scene feels still, almost like the world’s holding its breath. As January moves in, the days start to stretch.
By February, you’re working with up to 9 hours of daylight. That extra sunlight feels like a gift. Just enough time to hit the road, see something epic, and still have time to warm up in a hot spring before it gets dark again.
Why Visit Iceland in Winter in a Campervan?
People always talk about the cold, but Iceland during winter is different. You’re not coming for warm weather and sunshine. You’re coming for the kind of beauty that looks photoshopped in real life. And when you’ve got a campervan, you’re not just visiting Iceland. You’re living in it. Here's why winter is the season to hit the road.
Northern Lights
Long nights. Clear skies. No streetlight pollution. That’s a perfect storm for spotting the aurora. With a campervan, you can chase them wherever the forecast looks good. Park far from towns, kill the headlights, and just look up.
Icy Landscapes
Winter in Iceland turns into a snow-covered dream. Gullfoss looks frozen mid-roar. Skogafoss gets a slick white edge. Glaciers shine like glass, and ice caves form under Vatnajökull and Langjökull. The kicker? Those caves shift and reshape every year. No two visits are ever the same.
Winter Activities That Actually Rule
Not here for just the sights? Good. Strap into a snowmobile and carve across a glacier. Try skiing in Akureyri or go ice fishing on a silent frozen lake. Super Jeep tours take you deep into terrain no rental car dares to enter. And yes, it’s all better when you can head back to your camper, crank the heat, and eat something hot.
Festive Vibes Without the Cheese
Christmas lights don’t mess around in Iceland. Reykjavik’s streets twinkle like they mean it. Yule Lads (Iceland’s 13 Christmas trolls) pop up in stories and shop windows. Bonfires warm up the New Year. And you? You’re cruising through it all with your house on wheels.
Way Fewer People
The best part of Iceland during winter? No crowds. You’ll get iconic stops like Þingvellir, Reynisfjara, and Jokulsarlon mostly to yourself. That means better photos, more parking, and moments that feel personal, not packaged.
More Bang for Your Buck
Winter prices are lower across the board. Flights. Hotels. Tours. Even your campervan rental can be cheaper. That means you can stretch your budget and maybe even afford an extra day or an upgrade to a 4x4 camper that handles icy roads way better than a normal 4x2.
Things To Do in Iceland During The Winter With a Campervan
So, you’ve got the keys to your camper and a full tank of curiosity. Now what? If you’re wondering what to do in Iceland in the winter, here’s where things get good. Forget lying on beaches. Iceland’s winter lineup is wilder, colder, and a whole lot more memorable.
Witness the Northern Lights
There’s no denying that seeing the Northern Lights is one of the most unforgettable things to do in Iceland in winter. From September through early April, the nights are long enough to give you a real shot. Those glowing green ribbons? Worth every cold minute.
Skip the city lights. Drive your camper out to Thingvellir National Park or Jökulsárlón for darker skies and better views. Both spots are far from city lights, which gives you a clearer shot at the show. If you’re based in Reykjavik, book a Northern Lights cruise.
On this cruise, you’ll be floating under a silent sky while colors swirl above and reflect on the Atlantic. Not bad. Check Aurora forecasts before you go. Vedur.is and Aurora Forecast will show you cloud cover and activity levels. If the numbers look good, hop in your van and chase the light. You’ve got wheels, so use them.
(Nifty tip: keep a thermos of coffee in the van and extra layers nearby. It gets cold fast when you’re standing still in -5°C or 23°F.)
Visit Winter Waterfalls
If you’re building an Iceland winter itinerary, frozen waterfalls deserve a top spot. They’re not just cold. They’re completely transformed. What you get in winter isn’t just water falling. It’s ice clinging to cliffs, mist catching sunlight, and total silence.
Start with Gullfoss. It drops 32 meters (105 feet) in two powerful steps and looks even more dramatic when framed by snow and ice. The sunlight hits just right and turns the whole thing into a frozen light show.
Next up is Skógafoss, standing tall at 60 meters (197 feet). In winter, it creates wild ice patterns across the rocks. Some days, the mist throws out a rainbow or two, even when it feels like your fingers might freeze off.
Then there’s Seljalandsfoss, the 65-meter (213-foot) waterfall you can walk behind. Yes, even in winter. The path might be slick, but the view from behind the falls, framed in icicles, is unreal. Just wear proper boots and take it slow.
Experience Glaciers and Ice Caves
Glaciers and ice caves are the kind of thing that turn an Icelandic winter vacation into something you’ll actually brag about. They’re raw, dramatic, and constantly shifting. One season they’re there, the next they’ve melted and moved on.
Vatnajökull’s Crystal Ice Cave stands out. It doesn’t feel real. Blue walls curve overhead like frozen waves. Every year, it changes shape. Want in? Book the Crystal Ice Cave Tour. It’s the safest, easiest way to get inside the good stuff without winging it.
Over at Langjökull, you can snowmobile across the glacier, then explore the icy tunnels on foot. Best time to go? November to March. That’s when the caves are solid and safe to enter.
Don’t go alone. Guides know the terrain, the risks, and how to keep the experience epic without turning it into a rescue mission. Wear waterproof layers. Insulated boots. Gloves that actually work.
Relax in Iceland’s Geothermal Hot Springs
After hours behind the wheel, there’s no better reward than a soak in one of Iceland’s hot springs. If travel and leisure in Iceland means kicking back in 38°C (100°F) water surrounded by lava, the Blue Lagoon delivers. It’s close to the airport and easy to reach with your camper.
Want fewer people and better views? Drive north to Myvatn Nature Baths. Quiet, scenic, and perfect after a long ride. Feeling bold? Park near Hveragerði and hike into Reykjadalur Valley. A warm river winds through the hills. No crowds, no fuss. Just steam, silence, and sore muscles getting soft.
Embark on a Winter Road Trip
Start with the Golden Circle. It’s close, easy to navigate, and delivers a lot. Þingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss make a solid trio of geology, boiling water, and one very loud waterfall that drops 32 meters (105 feet).
Want more space and fewer crowds? Head down the South Coast. Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss both tower over icy paths. Reynisfjara beach looks like something from another planet. And at Jökulsárlón, icebergs drift quietly past, like time’s moving slower there.
If the roads are clear and you’ve got the days, loop the whole island.
Zoom Across Icy Landscapes on a Snowmobile
Need something louder than a waterfall and faster than a tour bus? Snowmobiling tours tick both boxes. It’s one of those Icelandic winter activities that feels like it shouldn’t be allowed, and yet somehow, it is.
You’re tearing across Langjökull glacier with nothing but snow in every direction and the engine roaring like it’s trying to start an avalanche. The views? Endless. White on white, sky barely different from ground, and no sign of civilization. Perfect.
Langjökull sits around 1,450 meters (4,757 feet) up, which basically guarantees two things: freezing temperatures and bragging rights.
Go Skiing or Snowboarding
Sick of staring at waterfalls? Mix it up. Iceland in the winter isn’t just about slow walks and soaking. Hlíðarfjall Ski Resort throws snow in your face in the best way.
You’re only 6 kilometers (4 miles) out from Akureyri, but it doesn’t feel close. The place is high up at 1,014 meters (3,327 feet), with 15 kilometers (9 miles) of trails ready to test your balance and your confidence.
Twenty-six trails, give or take a few wipeouts. And the view? You’re flying down a mountain with a giant fjord stretched out beside you.
Explore Reykjavík's Winter Charm
Out of all the places to visit in Iceland in winter, Reykjavík makes a strong case for staying put, or at least for a while. The whole city leans into the season like it’s been training for it all year.
The streets light up with decorations that somehow make the cold feel less cold. Cafés fill with people warming their hands around mugs of hot chocolate and plates of something sweet. Try the traditional Icelandic cakes. No regrets there.
Come December, the Christmas markets kick off. Think handmade crafts, local snacks, and enough holiday spirit to keep you wandering until your toes start to complain. Want to get into the local groove?
Join a Christmas walking tour and hear the stories behind the glowing windows and odd traditions. Stick around for New Year's Eve and find a bonfire. The flames are huge, the vibe is loud, and everyone’s out there making winter feel like the best season of the year.
Try Dog Sledding
If your Iceland winter holidays don’t include being dragged through the snow by a pack of overly enthusiastic huskies, are you even doing it right?
The tour kicks off at Vallholt farm in North Iceland, somewhere between Akureyri and Lake Mývatn. It’s about 445 kilometers (275 miles) from Reykjavík. You’ll spend 40 to 70 minutes gliding across a 6 to 8 kilometer (4 to 5 mile) trail while trying to look like you know how to mush. Spoiler: the dogs do all the work, and they’re probably judging your form.
After the ride, it’s cuddle time. These dogs go from sled engines to needy best friends in under a minute. Bring your camera. And maybe a lint roller.
Join a Super Jeep Tour
Some roads in Iceland laugh at regular cars. That’s where Super Jeeps Tours come in. They’re oversized, overpowered, and built to climb things your rental hatchback wouldn’t dare approach. For anyone planning a winter trip to Iceland, this is how you reach the wild stuff.
You’ll head up to around 1,000 meters (3,280 feet) into the highlands. From there, it’s all white peaks, frozen valleys, and a front-row view of Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier. It doesn’t feel like Earth up there. And that’s kind of the point.
The driver isn’t just someone with a license. They know the land, the stories, and exactly when to stop for the perfect photo or avoid sinking into snowdrifts. Whether you pick a day tour, an evening trip for that winter twilight glow, or go fully custom, you’re signing up for scenes you won’t find on a postcard.
Festivals and Traditions During Winter in Iceland
There’s something special about Iceland in winter. One standout is Þorrablót, a midwinter throwback to Viking times that runs from January to February.
Expect tables full of fermented shark, boiled sheep’s head, and other traditional dishes that probably weren’t designed with tourists in mind. If you’ve got Brennivín in hand, though, anything is possible.
Then there’s the Reykjavík Winter Lights Festival. It lands in early February, lighting up the city with art, installations, and free events that cut through the dark. Think glowing buildings, live music, and crowds walking the streets like the cold doesn’t matter. Somehow, for a few nights, it really doesn’t.
5-Day Iceland Winter Itinerary to Do In a Campervan
If you’ve already got a campervan and five days to spare, then here’s how to make the most of Iceland’s winter magic without getting stuck, lost, or overpaying for hot dogs. This route covers the big hits, sneaks in some icy secrets, and keeps driving times realistic, even with snow in the forecast.
Day 1 – Reykjavik to the Golden Circle
- Drive time: ~3.5 hours total (with stops)
- Key stops: Thingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, Gullfoss Waterfall
- Evening goal: Park somewhere dark and watch the skies (Northern Lights season is on.)
Start with a coffee-fueled stock-up in Reykjavík (Bonus supermarket is your friend), then swing into the classic Golden Circle loop. Thingvellir looks even more dramatic with frost clinging to the rift walls. Geysir still erupts, but the steam looks totally different when it’s freezing out. And Gullfoss? It’s part waterfall, part ice sculpture.
Good to know - Campsites like Skjól or Selfoss have heated facilities open year-round.
Day 2 – South Coast Wonders
- Drive time: ~2-3 hours (Golden Circle to Vík)
- Key stops: Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, Dyrhólaey, Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
- Evening goal: Overnight in Vík or a nearby winter-ready campsite.
The South Coast is Iceland’s winter showstopper. Waterfalls freeze on the edges, black sand beaches contrast with snow-covered cliffs, and you’re never far from a hot bowl of soup or a lava-heated pool.
Driving tip: Keep speed in check. Ice patches sneak up fast, especially near rivers or shaded bends.
Day 3 – Ice Caves and Glaciers
- Drive time: ~2.5-3 hours (Vík to Jökulsárlón)
- Key stops: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Diamond Beach, Ice Cave Tour (book ahead!)
- Evening goal: Sleep near Höfn or backtrack toward Skaftafell.
It’s the glacier day, baby. Book a legit ice cave tour with a guide (don’t DIY this—ice caves shift constantly and can collapse). Jökulsárlón’s lagoon is ghostly in winter, and Diamond Beach turns surreal with chunks of ice sparkling like they’re on display.
Good to know - Always check Umferdin.is and Safetravel.is before setting out. South Coast storms are hectic in this part.
Day 4 – Hot Springs and Hidden Gems
- Drive time: ~4-5 hours (backtrack toward Hveragerði)
- Key stops: Secret Lagoon in Fludir or Reykjadalur hot river hike (if trail conditions allow)
- Evening goal: Camp near Selfoss or Reykjavík.
Time to thaw out. Soak in the Secret Lagoon with steam rising around you and snowflakes hitting your nose. If Reykjadalur is safe to hike, it’s a bucket-list soak in a natural hot river surrounded by snow-dusted hills.
Driving tip: Start early. Daylight is limited, and some hot spring areas close after dark.
Day 5 – Reykjavík + Last-Minute Magic
- Drive time: ~1–1.5 hours (to Reykjavík)
- Key stops: Hallgrímskirkja Church, Harpa Concert Hall, local food trucks, Laugardalslaug pool
- Optional: Fly out, or spend a chill last night soaking and snacking.
You’ve just arrived back in Reykjavik. Wander downtown, snack on a lamb hot dog or fermented shark (no judgment), then soak in a public pool with hot tubs hotter than your regrets.
Handy last-minute tip: If your flight’s late, hit the Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon on the way to the airport. It’s right off Route 41.
Campervan Winter Tips
- Pack spikes for your shoes and keep a shovel in the van.
- Fuel up often. Rural stations aren’t 24/7.
- Don’t rush. Ice waits for no one and punishes the impatient.
Where to Park Your Campervan in Iceland During Winter
Let’s get one thing clear. You can’t just park your campervan anywhere and call it a night. Iceland during the winter isn’t the time to test your luck with roadside naps and frozen toilets.
Here are five campsites that actually stay open year-round, with proper facilities and enough hot water to keep your sanity intact:
- Reykjavík Campsite (Laugardalur) - You’re close to everything. Shops, showers, even a swimming pool if you're feeling brave. Great base for day trips or just hiding from the wind.
- Reykjamörk Campsite, Hveragerði - Steam rising from the hills, hot springs nearby, and less traffic than Reykjavík. You get peace, heat, and a working kettle.
- Skaftafell Campground - Smack inside Vatnajökull National Park. Glacier views, ice caves, and limited amenities. Still worth it if you’re self-contained and slightly frost-resistant.
- Camp Egilsstaðir - Eastern Iceland’s go-to stop. Kitchen, laundry, and just enough civilization to recharge before heading back into the wild.
- Hamrar Campsite, Akureyri - North Iceland’s winter gem. Reliable power, walking trails, and easy access to town. Plus, fewer tourists pretending to be Viking explorers.
Before you drive out, check the site’s status online using Tjalda.is. Snow can close things fast, and trust us, you don’t want to be figuring that out at midnight in a blizzard.
Essential Winter Travel Tips for Iceland
So you’ve locked in your winter trip to Iceland, and now it’s time to face the real challenge. Packing without losing your mind. Iceland’s weather isn’t here to make your life easy. Here’s how to stay warm, dry, and just the right amount of smug while everyone else freezes:
- Warm Layers (yes, all of them) - Thermal tops, fleece-lined leggings, insulated mid-layers. Iceland doesn’t care how tough you think you are. Layers will save you.
- Waterproof Jacket and Pants - That waterfall mist? It doesn’t care about your fashion choices. Go waterproof or go home soggy.
- Sturdy Boots with Grip - Sneakers won’t cut it. Get something with ankle support and decent traction. Ice waits for no one.
- Accessories: Hat, Gloves, Scarf - Frostbite is not a vibe. Go for wool or fleece, and pack extras in case one set ends up soaked.
- Swimsuit - Yes, seriously. The geothermal pools don’t care if it’s snowing. Bring the suit or miss out on one of the best parts of your trip.
How To Drive in Iceland During the Winter in a Campervan
Driving across Iceland during winter in a campervan is a beautiful kind of chaos. Here’s how to keep things safe, smooth, and slightly less terrifying:
- Pick the right van - Go for a 4x4. That cute little two-wheel drive might look cozy, but it’ll cry on gravel and freeze on mountain passes.
- Check the weather like your life depends on it - Because sometimes it does. Visit Umferdin.is and Vedur.is before heading out. If either site looks dramatic, believe them.
- Slow down - You're not chasing anyone. Iceland’s winter roads can be slick, snowy, and full of surprise ice patches. Take it slow or slide fast. Your call.
- Use low gear on steep descents - Let the engine help. Riding the brakes on icy hills is a fast way to meet a snowbank up close.
- Pull over to admire the view - Not while driving. Iceland’s scenery is distracting in the best way, but wait for a safe spot to stop. Bonus: most campervans come with parking heaters, so you can enjoy the view without freezing.
- Know where you’re allowed to camp - Winter or not, wild camping is a no-go. Use designated campsites that stay open year-round and won’t leave you snowed in or ticketed.
- Pack for delays - Stock the van with food, warm gear, and enough patience to survive a windstorm delay. Iceland’s not in a rush, and neither should you be.
What Campervan To Pick for Winter Conditions
Choosing the right campervan for your winter trip isn’t just about looks. It’s about staying warm, driving safely, and not losing your mind when the wind kicks up. Here are a few reliable picks from our fleet:
Toyota Hilux 4x4 Camper
- Seats 4, sleeps 4
- Automatic transmission
- Great for families or small groups who want room to stretch and proper heating
- From 27,900 ISK ($218 USD) per day
Mercedes Campstar 4x4 Camper
- Seats 4, sleeps 3
- Automatic transmission
- A solid choice for couples who want reliability with a bit of style
- From 26,500 ISK ($207 USD) per day
Suzuki Vitara 4x4 with Roof Tent
- Seats 5, sleeps 2
- Automatic transmission
- Best for budget-savvy pairs who value freedom over frills
- From 15,800 ISK ($123 USD) per day
Book your campervan in Iceland now to avoid missing out. Winter availability is limited, and the best vans go fast.
Best Times to Visit in Winter
Timing is everything when planning your winter vacation in Iceland. Whether you want solitude, snow, or a festival vibe, here’s what to expect each month.
- November- Winter sets in with temperatures between -1°C and 4°C (30°F to 39°F). It’s quiet, moody, and ideal for early Northern Lights chasers. Fewer people. More space.
- December - Cold? Definitely. Think -5°C to 2°C (23°F to 36°F). But Reykjavík turns into a real-life snow globe. Expect just 4 hours of daylight and nonstop holiday charm.
- January - The thermometer drops to -10°C (14°F), and daylight barely sticks around. But the payoff is crisp light for photography, epic snowmobiling, and peaceful trails without the crowds.
- February - Slightly less cold, around -1°C to 0°C (30°F to 32°F). You’ll get 7 to 10 hours of daylight, and the Reykjavík Winter Lights Festival makes the dark feel festive.
- March - Winter starts to let go. Temperatures rise to -2°C to 3°C (28°F to 37°F), and you get 12 hours of daylight. It’s one of the best months for Northern Lights spotting thanks to the spring equinox effect.
FAQs About Iceland in the Winter
Is Iceland worth visiting in winter?
Absolutely. Iceland in winter is quieter, cheaper, and packed with surreal scenery. Frozen waterfalls, steamy hot springs, and glowing skies make it a trip you won’t forget.
What is the weather like in Iceland during winter?
Unpredictable. Expect cold temps, wind that moves sideways, and sudden snow. Average temperatures range from -5°C to 4°C (23°F to 39°F), depending on the month and location.
How can I see the Northern Lights in Iceland?
Go between September and April. Drive away from city lights, check aurora forecasts, and stay up late. Patience, clear skies, and a warm van help a lot.
Are Iceland's roads safe to drive in winter?
Mostly, if you’re careful. Stick to main roads, drive slowly, and check Umferdin.is daily. Rent a 4x4, use headlights at all times, and never trust the weather.
