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Touring Iceland in January is like stepping into a snowy fairy tale. Despite being one of Iceland's darkest and chilliest months, January's charm lies in snow-covered landscapes and the festive spirit lingering from Christmas. Days are short, and temperatures are cold, but the Northern Lights put on a dazzling show. Bundle up for the chill and dive into Reykjavik's cozy pubs before gearing up for adventures to frosty landscapes. Experience the ethereal beauty of frozen waterfalls and volcanic wonders on the Golden Circle without the holiday season crowds.

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Iceland Weather in January

Cottage on a background of mountains in South Iceland on a winter night.
The Icelandic winter can get pretty chilly, with temperatures dropping to as low as -3°C (27°F) in the highlands. 

January in Iceland is the peak winter month, bringing cold temperatures and snowy landscapes. Coastal areas, including Reykjavik, experience milder temperatures than inland regions. The average daytime temperature in Reykjavik is 2°C (36°F), while the average nighttime temperature is -1°C (31°F). Temperature decreases as you move closer to the Northern regions and Icelandic highlands.

Daylight hours are also limited, lasting anywhere between four and six hours, creating a distinctive winter ambiance. The quiet beauty of Iceland in January, characterized by landscapes covered in fresh fluff of snow and shorter days, offers a unique and serene backdrop for exploration. This is one of the best times to experience the country's winter charm and engage in unique activities like Northern Lights chasing and ice caving.

For a seasonal overview, go through our travel guide on the best time to visit Iceland.

Weather in Iceland in January - Rainfall and Temperatures

DecJanFeb
Avg Daily (°C)122
Avg Nightly (°C)-2-1-1
Avg Daily (°F)343636
Avg Nightly (°F)293131
Avg Rainfall (mm)354733

Why Visit Iceland in January

Geysir in the Golden Circle, Iceland.
Iceland's hot geothermal springs are the perfect remedy to warm yourselves up during cold January mornings.
View of Mountains from the bustling city of Reykjavik.
The cities like Reykjavik have enough activities to keep you occupied during your Iceland tour in January.

A trip to Iceland in January makes for a truly unique experience. Be it trips to frozen waterfalls or a snowmobile ride through glaciers enveloped in snow, you will not run short of things to do in Iceland in winter. Below are some reasons why you should consider visiting Iceland in January:

  • Northern Lights spectacle: Days are an hour shorter in January than in December, making the long nights a prime time for seeing the dazzling Northern Lights displays. Venture into the countryside for the best, unobstructed views of the celestial dance.
  • Festival magic: Immerse yourself in Icelandic winter culture with January's unique festivals. Celebrate the Icelandic culture of Elf bonfire, held on January 6, with fireworks, bonfires, family dinners, and elf dances to mark the end of the festive Christmas season. From Thorrablot feasts celebrating traditional cuisine to Reykjavik's Winter Lights Festival illuminating the city, enjoy the cultural heartbeat amid the winter chill.
  • Urban adventure: January is part of the low tourist season in Iceland. So this is the perfect time to explore cities like Reykjavik and Akureyri at your own pace. Indulge in some retail therapy in the capital — the city is famous for its high-quality jewelry and designs. Spend an afternoon at a skating rink and go bar hopping in the evening. When in Akureyri, take leisurely strolls through the Old Town and Downtown that showcase the city’s past.
  • Ice cave exploration: Unveil the secret world beneath Vatnajökull National Park's surface. January's freezing temperatures create intricate ice formations, turning the caves into a surreal Arctic cathedral. Explore the subterranean wonders and witness nature's frozen art.

Where to go and what to do

Aurora borealis and silhouette of standing man and woman
Marvel at the majesty of the Northern Lights as they provide a psychedelic view of the Icelandic sky.

There is a wealth of things to do in Iceland in January. From exploring the wonders of the Golden Circle to soaking in the Blue Lagoon's warm geothermal waters, here's a list of Arctic adventures to enjoy.

Discover Reykjavik's quieter side in January. Stroll through the snow-covered city, explore landmarks such as the Hallgrimskirkja, and warm up in cozy pubs open past midnight. Visit the Perlan Museum and Reykjavík Art Museum to learn about the country’s history and rich culture.

The next stop is a trip to Thingvellir National Park for prime Northern Lights viewing. January is an ideal time to view the Northern Lights from anywhere in Iceland due to extended nights, clearer skies, and low light pollution. The park's vast open spaces provide an unobstructed celestial spectacle, with the dancing lights reflecting off icy landscapes.

Head to Skaftafell for an exhilarating glacier hike. January offers a pristine white canvas, enhancing the thrill as you navigate snowy terrain and marvel at the surrounding frozen wonders. Make your way to Vatnajökull National Park for a mesmerizing ice-caving experience. January's freezing temperatures create intricate ice formations, turning the caves into a magical underground world.
January’s freezing temperatures are perfect for soaking in Iceland’s geothermal hot springs. Head to Hveravellir, where you can relax in the warm waters surrounded by snowy landscapes. The Blue Lagoon is another popular spot for soaking in the warm, mineral-rich waters surrounded by snow-covered lava fields.

Need Help Planning Your January Trip to Iceland?

Woman in the snow in Iceland during winter.
Temperatures dip below freezing during January in Iceland, so ensure you have proper attire to go with the weather.

January is part of the low season in Iceland, so there’ll be fewer visitors around, so visitors can enjoy the sites and attractions without feeling rushed. See the magical Northern Lights, explore ice caves, go glacier hiking, and more on a trip to Iceland in January.

Reach out to our local travel experts to create a customized itinerary for your Iceland trip.

Our related travel guide articles:
Iceland in December
Iceland in February

Published by Lucas Toft, updated on December 11, 2023

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