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Uncover the wonders of Iceland in December! Although one of the coldest and darkest months, it's prime time to chase the Northern Lights and soak up the festive Christmas vibes. With snow blanketing the landscapes and the sun making a brief appearance, the holiday spirit trumps the chilly weather. Bundle up for icy adventures in Vatnajokull, explore the frozen waterfalls of the North, and soak in the geothermal hot springs of the South. Reykjavik dazzles with festive lights, and the iconic Golden Circle is a must-see. Embrace the chill, chase the auroras, and make your Iceland tour in winter unforgettable.

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Iceland weather in December

Man soaking his feet in a glacier lagoon of Iceland.
December brings the coldest temperatures in Iceland but it is still mild for its latitude thanks to the warm current of North Atlantic Gyre and maritime influence.

Iceland embraces its winter shudders in December. The country’s average daytime temperature plunges to 1°C (34°F) while the average nighttime temperature drops to -2°C (29°F). Region-wise, temperatures hover between -1°C (30°F) to 4°C (39°F) in the South and dip further to -8°C (18°F) to -3°C (27°F) in the North. However, be prepared for unpredictable colder snaps, especially in northern regions, where the mercury may plummet to -20 °C (- 4°F).

With limited daylight, the brief winter days cast long, dark nights across the land. Expect December temperatures in Iceland to bring substantial snowfall, transforming the landscape into a winter wonderland. While the snowy scenes are enchanting, brace yourself for potential icy patches, particularly in the northern parts. Winter gear is a must for navigating the weather in Iceland in December, so layer up for a memorable Icelandic adventure.

For more detailed information on Iceland’s seasonal variations, make sure to check our travel guide on the best time to visit Iceland.

Weather in Iceland in December - Rainfall and Temperatures

NovDecJan
Avg Daily (°C)312
Avg Nightly (°C)0-2-1
Avg Daily (°F)383436
Avg Nightly (°F)322931
Avg Rainfall (mm)293547

Why visit Iceland in December

Woman enjoying natural spa, Blue Lagoon.
Drive the cold away with a dip in the warm geothermal pools of Iceland.
Silhouette of a couple staring at the Aurora borealis in Iceland.
Marvel at the Northern Lights, taking advantage of the longer, darker nights during December in Iceland.

From chasing the Northern Lights to festive celebrations, here's why you should plan your trip to Iceland in December.

  • Northern Lights: December is the perfect time for spotting the mesmerizing Northern Lights. Being the darkest month, the lights paint the sky in vivid hues. The auroras are best seen in the countryside, away from Reykjavik and other major cities, where the light pollution is low.
  • Unique Christmas traditions: Icelandic Christmas traditions differ from those you are used to. Dive into Icelandic Yule cat traditions, enjoy the unique taste of Laufabraud (leaf bread), and chug the limited edition Jolabjor or Christmas beers. Also, embrace the local cheer during Reykjavik's renowned Christmas market, the Christmas Village.
  • Winter activities: Venture into the heart of glaciers with thrilling ice-caving and glacier hiking tours, best enjoyed in Iceland in December. The frozen landscapes reveal intricate ice formations, creating a magical underworld to explore. Or, beat the winter chill by soaking in geothermal hot springs like the Blue Lagoon. December's frosty temperatures make these warm oases even more inviting, creating a tranquil contrast to the snowy surroundings.
  • Off-season solitude: December offers a quieter environment at iconic spots like the Golden Circle and Vik, as it is an off-season month for tourists. Savor the serenity without the usual summer crowds.
  • Whale-watching: December marks the peak of the whale-watching season. Bundle up and sail from Reykjavik or Husavik to witness magnificent creatures like humpbacks, minke whales, and playful dolphins.

Where to go and what to do

Snow-covered surrounding of Vik Church in December.
If you've never experienced snowfall back in your country, Iceland is the perfect place to be during the peak winter month of December to enjoy snowfall and snow-covered landscapes.

Uncover Iceland's gems in December for a truly unique Arctic experience. Start your tour in Reykjavik, which, in December, is immersed in festive spirit. Be sure to visit Christmas markets to get traditional Icelandic Christmas presents, including candles, playing cards, and woolen items, as souvenirs for your friends and family back home. Head to the frozen waterfall, Kermoafoss, situated in Ellidarardalur valley, a public park in Reykjavik. Soak in the warm geothermal wonders of the Blue Lagoon to rejuvenate.

Visit the Thrihnukagigur volcano near Reykjavik, a dormant magma chamber accessible by a thrilling descent. Pair this tour with your Northern Lights adventure in December to maximize the thrill. December adds an extra layer to your adventure, with the surrounding landscape blanketed in snow. Make your way to the Westfjords, where the lesser-explored Dynjandi waterfall cascades gracefully against a wintry backdrop. Up North, explore the Mývatn region's hidden gems, like the unconventional Whale Museum in Húsavík and the otherworldly geothermal landscapes of Námafjall. Escape the ordinary with a journey to Langjokull Glacier's ice caves, where December temperatures in Iceland add an extra layer of magic to the crystalline subterranean world.

Need Help Planning Your December Trip to Iceland?

 Iceland in December transforms into a perfect winter holiday destination. The Northern Lights, ice caves, geothermal hot springs, and unique Christmas traditions are a few of the highlights among many to look forward to during your trip.

Fill out our customized Iceland trip form if you want to plan your trip from scratch. For ideas and inspiration, look at our Iceland guide.

Our related travel guide articles:
Iceland in November
Iceland in January

Published by Lucas Toft, updated on March 14, 2024

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