There is something for everyone when it comes to sights to see from Reykjavík in winter. Whether you’re looking for nature and scenery or some thrilling action, it’s all within day’s reach from the capital. Read about the top winter tours in Iceland for this Christmas in this article.
Safety first
Remember that travelling in winter requires a lot more care than travelling in summer, especially because the weather tends to change suddenly. Be sure to check the weather forecast before you set out, wear warm clothing, preferably in layers, check safetravel.is, and consult with the locals, they know how to deal with our temperamental climate.
The amazing northern lights
The northern lights are a spectacular phenomenon, and although there’s unfortunately never a guarantee you’ll see them on your trip, you can at least enlist the help of locals who know best. Here are some tips: make sure the sky is dark and clear, try your best to be patient, and since you have to be patient, wear warm clothes.
Book your northern lights tour here!
Glacier climbing and glacier hiking
For those who are not afraid of something more physically strenuous, taking a walk on top of a glacier is sure to be a trip to remember. One of the things that make Iceland so unique is the proximity of Reykjavík and other towns to awe-inspiring glaciers. Keep in mind, however, that to explore the glacier, you need to travel with an experienced guide, otherwise it’s just too dangerous.
Book your glacier tour here!
The south coast
The south coast not only has some of Iceland’s most beautiful scenery, but it also has some of Iceland’s most diverse landscapes. It’s no wonder that a tour that takes travellers past striking waterfalls, seemingly endless stretches of volcanic black sand beaches, and a quaint little local village called Vík, as well as offering people a chance to explore a glacier up close, comes heavily recommended.
Book your south coast adventure now!
Snowmobiling on a glacier
This is a great opportunity for the adventure-seeking traveller who wants to explore a glacier firsthand. Langjökull (the country’s second largest glacier) is only approximately a 2.5-hours’ drive from the capital and tours run there every day, all year. Once there, you get the chance to see the breathtaking Icelandic interior in a way few people ever experience, e.g. views from the flanks of Langjökull from locations you can only access on specialised vehicles like snowmobiles.
Book your snowmobile tour here!
The Golden Circle
The Golden Circle is the most popular day tour in Iceland. The first stop is the Geysir geothermal area. Close by is one of Iceland’s most powerful and majestic waterfalls, Gullfoss, the Golden Waterfall. The Golden Circle tour then comes to an end with a stop at Þingvellir National Park. It’s an area that’s impressive, both historically and geographically.
Book your Golden Circle tour now!
Horseback riding
The Icelandic horse is a breed unlike any other in the world. It’s been bred in complete isolation since the 11th century, a feat only accomplished because of Iceland’s isolation. Small and extremely well-tempered, the Icelandic horse is known for its unique gait, the “tölt,” an unusual gait where the horse seems to crouch down and slide over rough landscapes like lava fields.
Book your horseback riding tour here!
Whale watching
Observing the giants of the ocean is a profound experience you really shouldn’t miss. There are 23 species of whales in the ocean around Iceland, though some are more common than others. Even though it’s the middle of the winter, you can still book a whale watching tour straight from Reykjavík with a pickup service right to your hotel. If you prefer not to go out to sea, check out the Whales of Iceland museum by the old harbour.
Book your whale watching adventure here.
Find all these tours and more at christmas.tourdesk.is!
Visit our tour information centres for more tips and info!
