Iceland in January: Weather, Things to Do, and Travel Tips

January is one of Iceland’s coldest months, but also one of the most magical. Frosted landscapes, icy waterfalls, and long nights lit by the Northern Lights make it a unique time to visit. In this guide, you will discover what Iceland in January is really like, from weather and daylight to the best things to do, self-drive tips, and essential travel advice.

January 2026 quick snapshot

If you are planning specifically for January 2026, expect deep winter conditions, limited daylight at the start of the month, and strong Northern Lights potential on clear nights. The key is to plan sightseeing during the brightest hours, keep evenings flexible, and always check conditions before you drive. For a full seasonal overview, see our complete Iceland in January guide.

• Daylight is shortest in early January and increases gradually through the month, making shorter routes ideal at the start of your trip.
• Aurora hunting is often excellent in January, especially away from city lights. Use our Northern Lights in Iceland guide to plan around forecasts and cloud cover.
• Winter driving conditions require preparation, so review driving in the snow in Iceland before finalising your itinerary.

What is Iceland like in January?

Visiting Iceland in January feels like stepping into a real winter wonderland. The frozen atmosphere is completely different from travelling during the summer months. While daylight hours are limited, the low winter sun and long twilight create striking photography conditions across the country.

The long nights also offer excellent opportunities to see the aurora, particularly if you can drive into rural areas with low light pollution. January is deep winter, which means icy roads and unpredictable weather, but also fewer crowds, quieter attractions, and a more authentic low-season experience.

Weather in Iceland in January

January weather in Iceland is cold, windy, and changeable. Temperatures in Reykjavík often hover around freezing, but wind chill can make conditions feel much colder. Snow, sleet, rain, and clear winter days can all occur within a short period, which is why flexibility is essential.

Weather conditions vary by region, with coastal areas generally milder but windier, and inland or northern regions colder with more consistent snow cover. Before committing to long drives, it is always worth reviewing regional conditions and adjusting plans accordingly.

Daylight hours in January

January has some of the shortest days of the year, although daylight increases steadily as the month progresses. Early January is best suited to nearby sightseeing and compact routes, while late January allows more flexibility for classic trips like the Golden Circle or short South Coast drives. Choosing the right vehicle matters, so consult what car you need to drive the Golden Circle when planning winter day trips.

What to pack for January weather

Packing properly is essential for winter travel. To stay comfortable outdoors while remaining warm indoors, it helps to pack like a local and focus on layered clothing.

• Thermal base layers
• Warm mid-layers such as wool or fleece
• Insulated waterproof jacket and waterproof pants
• Waterproof hiking boots with good grip
• Hat, gloves, scarf or buff, and wool socks

Lightweight crampons or microspikes are also very useful for icy sidewalks, viewpoints, and waterfall paths during winter.

Things to do in Iceland in January

Iceland in January is packed with unforgettable winter experiences. From dramatic natural sights to seasonal adventures, this time of year offers a unique perspective on the country’s landscapes.

Explore ice caves

January is one of the best months to visit Iceland’s ice caves, as stable sub-zero temperatures improve safety and structure. Guided tours operate mainly in the south and southeast, particularly near Vatnajökull Glacier. If this is on your itinerary, start with the ultimate guide to ice caves to understand locations, safety rules, and access requirements.

Snorkel between the tectonic plates

Snorkelling at Silfra in January may sound extreme, but winter conditions often deliver excellent visibility and striking underwater scenery. Tours provide dry suits and safety equipment, making it accessible even in cold months, provided conditions are suitable.

Chase the Northern Lights

With limited daylight and long nights, January provides extended windows for aurora hunting. Checking forecasts and staying flexible is key. Many travellers combine evening aurora drives with daytime sightseeing, using resources like the Northern Lights guide and regional road updates.

Spot winter wildlife

Although winter is not peak wildlife season, January can still offer rewarding sightings. Seals are sometimes visible near Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, and winter whale watching is possible in some regions. For seasonal context, see wildlife watching in winter and our overview of birds of Iceland.

Driving in Iceland in January

A self-drive trip is one of the best ways to explore Iceland in winter, but January driving requires preparation. Icy roads, sudden weather changes, strong winds, and short daylight hours can all affect safety and travel time.

The Ring Road is typically well maintained and regularly cleared, making it the most reliable long-distance route in winter. Highland F-roads are closed in January and should not be included in itineraries, although understanding them can help with future planning, as explained in how to drive on Iceland’s F-roads.

Many travellers choose a 4x4 in January for improved traction and stability. If you are planning winter driving, explore renting a 4x4 and review car rental insurance in Iceland to ensure your coverage matches winter risks.

Before heading out, always check road conditions and closures on umferdin.is and weather forecasts on vedur.is. Familiarity with local signage is also important, so reviewing Icelandic road signs and meanings is strongly recommended.

Plan your January trip with confidence

January is an unforgettable time to experience Iceland if you plan carefully. Choose a winter-ready vehicle, pack properly, keep itineraries flexible, and check conditions daily. To avoid surprises, review how to avoid unexpected car rental costs in Iceland, compare winter vehicle options early, and secure suitable coverage before your trip.