Is December a Good Time to Visit Iceland? This is a question that has puzzled many travelers and adventure-seekers who are considering a trip to the Land of Fire and Ice. Iceland is a country known for its breathtaking landscapes, unique culture, and the Northern Lights, but the best time to visit it depends on various factors such as weather, daylight hours, and tourist season. In this article, we will delve into the pros and cons of visiting Iceland in December and help you decide whether it’s a good time for you to plan your trip.
Weather and Climate in December
Iceland’s climate is known for being harsh and unpredictable, with December being one of the coldest months of the year. The average temperature in December is around 2°C (36°F), with temperatures often dropping below 0°C (32°F) at night. The country experiences almost 24 hours of darkness in December, with the sun rising as late as 11:30 am and setting as early as 3:30 pm. This can make it challenging to plan your day and enjoy outdoor activities.
However, the cold weather also brings some advantages. The snow-covered landscapes are breathtakingly beautiful, and the low temperatures make it an ideal time for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. Additionally, the cold weather means that the Northern Lights are more visible in December, making it a great time to see this natural phenomenon.
Snow and Ice Conditions
The snow and ice conditions in Iceland in December are generally good, with many roads and highways being cleared and salted to ensure safe travel. However, it’s essential to check the weather forecast and road conditions before heading out, as some roads may be closed due to heavy snow or ice.
Some popular winter activities in Iceland include:
- Skiing and snowboarding at one of Iceland’s many ski resorts, such as Bláfjöll or Hlíðarfjall.
- Ice climbing and glacier hiking on Vatnajökull or Mýrdalsjökull glaciers.
- Snowmobiling or dog sledding in the Icelandic countryside.
- Exploring Iceland’s stunning winter landscapes on a guided snowshoeing tour.
Daylight Hours and Aurora Borealis
As mentioned earlier, December is one of the darkest months in Iceland, with the sun rising as late as 11:30 am and setting as early as 3:30 pm. This can make it challenging to plan your day and enjoy outdoor activities. However, the lack of daylight also means that the Northern Lights are more visible in December, making it a great time to see this natural phenomenon.
The Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights, is a breathtaking display of colored lights that can be seen in the night sky. The best time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland is between September and April, with December being one of the best months to see them. (See Also: Best Time To Visit Oktoberfest?)
Best Places to See the Northern Lights in Iceland
Some of the best places to see the Northern Lights in Iceland include:
- Reykjavik: The capital city is a great place to see the Northern Lights, as it’s located near the Arctic Circle and has minimal light pollution.
- Thingvellir National Park: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a great place to see the Northern Lights, as it’s located near the Golden Circle and has minimal light pollution.
- Akureyri: This northern city is a great place to see the Northern Lights, as it’s located near the Arctic Circle and has minimal light pollution.
- Snæfellsnes Peninsula: This peninsula is a great place to see the Northern Lights, as it’s located near the Arctic Circle and has minimal light pollution.
Tourist Season and Crowds
December is considered part of the low season in Iceland, which means that there are fewer tourists and lower prices for accommodations and activities. However, this also means that some tourist attractions and services may be closed or operate on reduced hours.
Some popular tourist attractions in Iceland include:
- The Blue Lagoon: This geothermal spa is a popular attraction in Iceland, but it can get crowded in December.
- Þingvellir National Park: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a popular attraction in Iceland, but it can get crowded in December.
- The Golden Circle: This popular tourist route includes Þingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall, but it can get crowded in December.
Accommodations and Prices
December is considered part of the low season in Iceland, which means that prices for accommodations are generally lower than in the high season. However, some hotels and guesthouses may offer special deals and discounts to attract more visitors during the low season.
Some popular accommodations in Iceland include:
- Hotel Reykjavik 101: This hotel is located in the heart of Reykjavik and offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant.
- Hotel Ranga: This hotel is located in the south of Iceland and offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant.
- Guesthouse Kjarnaskógur: This guesthouse is located in the south of Iceland and offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant.
Conclusion
December is a great time to visit Iceland if you’re looking for a winter wonderland experience. The snow-covered landscapes are breathtakingly beautiful, and the low temperatures make it an ideal time for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. However, the cold weather and lack of daylight can make it challenging to plan your day and enjoy outdoor activities. (See Also: Best Time to Visit Galaxy’s Edge Disney World – A Guide to Avoid Crowds)
Some of the best places to visit in Iceland in December include:
- Reykjavik: The capital city is a great place to see the Northern Lights and experience Icelandic culture.
- Thingvellir National Park: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a great place to see the Northern Lights and learn about Icelandic history.
- Akureyri: This northern city is a great place to see the Northern Lights and experience Icelandic culture.
- Snæfellsnes Peninsula: This peninsula is a great place to see the Northern Lights and experience Icelandic nature.
Recap
In this article, we discussed the pros and cons of visiting Iceland in December. We looked at the weather and climate in December, including the snow and ice conditions, daylight hours, and Aurora Borealis. We also discussed the tourist season and crowds, accommodations and prices, and some of the best places to visit in Iceland in December.
Some of the key points to remember when visiting Iceland in December include:
- The weather and climate in December can be harsh and unpredictable.
- The snow and ice conditions in December are generally good, but some roads may be closed due to heavy snow or ice.
- The daylight hours in December are short, with the sun rising as late as 11:30 am and setting as early as 3:30 pm.
- The Northern Lights are more visible in December, making it a great time to see this natural phenomenon.
- December is considered part of the low season in Iceland, which means that prices for accommodations are generally lower than in the high season.
FAQs
Is December a good time to visit Iceland?
December can be a great time to visit Iceland if you’re looking for a winter wonderland experience. The snow-covered landscapes are breathtakingly beautiful, and the low temperatures make it an ideal time for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. However, the cold weather and lack of daylight can make it challenging to plan your day and enjoy outdoor activities.
What is the weather like in Iceland in December?
The weather in Iceland in December is generally cold and snowy, with average temperatures ranging from 2°C to 5°C (36°F to 41°F). The country experiences almost 24 hours of darkness in December, with the sun rising as late as 11:30 am and setting as early as 3:30 pm.
Can I see the Northern Lights in Iceland in December?
Yes, the Northern Lights are more visible in Iceland in December, making it a great time to see this natural phenomenon. The best places to see the Northern Lights in Iceland include Reykjavik, Thingvellir National Park, Akureyri, and Snæfellsnes Peninsula. (See Also: Best Time to Visit Croatia Reddit – Insider’s Guide)
Are there any special events or festivals in Iceland in December?
Yes, Iceland celebrates several special events and festivals in December, including the Reykjavik Christmas Market, the Icelandic Christmas Festival, and the New Year’s Eve fireworks display.
Can I visit the Blue Lagoon in December?
Yes, the Blue Lagoon is open year-round, including in December. However, it’s essential to check the weather forecast and road conditions before heading out, as some roads may be closed due to heavy snow or ice.
Can I visit the Golden Circle in December?
Yes, the Golden Circle is open year-round, including in December. However, some attractions may be closed or operate on reduced hours due to the cold weather and lack of daylight.