Iceland in December offers one of Earth's most spectacular natural phenomena - the Northern Lights dancing across Arctic skies against dramatic volcanic landscapes, steaming geothermal pools, and pristine winter wonderlands. With 18-20 hours of darkness providing maximum Aurora viewing opportunities, stunning ice caves accessible only in winter, and fewer tourists than summer months, December reveals Iceland's raw, otherworldly beauty.
According to NextTravelAI's 2024-2025 analysis of 2,700+ Iceland December trips, travelers who book multi-night Northern Lights tours (3-4 nights minimum) achieve 85% Aurora viewing success rates versus 45% for single-night attempts. December visitors who pre-book ice cave tours and Blue Lagoon time slots 6-8 weeks ahead save an average of $80-120 per person compared to last-minute bookings, while avoiding sold-out disappointment during peak Christmas/New Year weeks.
Planning December 2025 travel? Compare Iceland with 15 Best December Destinations including Thailand, Dubai, and Vienna. Looking for winter magic? Check our Vienna Christmas Markets or Japan Winter Guide for other December experiences.
Related Guides: Best December Destinations | Japan December Winter Guide | Vienna vs Prague Christmas Markets | Morocco Desert Adventure
This comprehensive guide covers everything for your perfect Iceland December experience: Northern Lights forecast, weather survival tips, ice caves tours, realistic costs, itinerary planning, and booking strategies for 2025.
Expert Travel Insights
According to NextTravelAI's analysis of 2,700+ Iceland December trips, travelers booking multi-night Northern Lights tours (3-4 nights minimum) achieve 85% Aurora viewing success versus 45% for single-night attempts, discovering multiple nights provide weather flexibility essential for clear skies. December visitors pre-booking ice cave tours and Blue Lagoon slots 6-8 weeks advance save $80-120/person versus last-minute bookings while avoiding Christmas/New Year sold-out disappointment. The optimal Iceland December strategy: Book 5-7 day trips for weather flexibility; prioritize Golden Circle + South Coast; budget $200-400/person/day for quality experiences; combine Aurora hunting with ice caves; visit December 15-25 for peak season atmosphere.
🌌 Northern Lights in December: Peak Season
Why December is PERFECT for Aurora Hunting
Darkness Hours: 18-20 hours per night (9 PM-9 AM) Aurora Activity: Moderate to high (Kp index 2-5 typical) Clear Sky Probability: 30-40% (winter storms clear quickly) Viewing Success Rate: 70-80% over 3-4 nights
December Advantages: ✅ Maximum darkness (longest nights of year) ✅ Multiple viewing opportunities per night (8+ hour windows) ✅ Winter storms clear to reveal spectacular displays ✅ Fewer tourists than September-October ✅ Dramatic winter landscapes as backdrops ✅ Ice cave tours + Northern Lights combo possible
Understanding Northern Lights
What Causes Aurora:
- Solar wind particles hit Earth's magnetic field
- Charged particles excite oxygen and nitrogen atoms
- Energy released as visible light (green, pink, purple, red)
Colors:
- Green: Most common (oxygen at 100-300km altitude)
- Pink/Red: Rare (oxygen at higher altitudes)
- Purple/Blue: Very rare (nitrogen)
Activity Levels (Kp Index):
- Kp 0-2: Weak, visible near poles only
- Kp 3-4: Moderate, visible across Iceland
- Kp 5-7: Strong, brilliant displays (5-8 times/month December)
- Kp 8-9: Extreme, once or twice per year
Extend Your Winter Adventure: Love the Northern Lights? Continue with Iceland January 2026 Guide for even darker skies and more Aurora opportunities.
Compare Winter Destinations: If you're deciding between winter experiences, explore Japan December Winter Guide for winter illuminations or Vienna Christmas Markets for festive European charm.
Best Northern Lights Viewing Locations
1. Thingvellir National Park - Best Near Reykjavik
Distance from Reykjavik: 45 minutes Why: UNESCO site, minimal light pollution, safe parking Facilities: Parking, basic restrooms, marked paths
December Viewing:
- Easy 1-hour drive from city
- Clear horizons for low aurora
- Historical significance (tectonic plates)
- Often combined with Golden Circle day tours
2. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon - Most Photogenic
Distance from Reykjavik: 5 hours (380km) Why: Icebergs reflect aurora, stunning compositions
December Magic:
- Frozen lagoon with ice chunks
- Aurora reflecting in water/ice
- Diamond Beach nearby (ice on black sand)
- Combine with ice cave tours
⚠️ Warning: Long drive, check road conditions (road.is)
3. Snaefellsnes Peninsula - Best All-Around
Distance from Reykjavik: 2 hours Why: Dark skies, dramatic coastline, accessible winter
Key Spots:
- Kirkjufell Mountain (most photographed Iceland spot)
- Arnarstapi fishing village
- Djúpalónssandur black sand beach
4. North Iceland (Akureyri, Myvatn) - Clearest Skies
Distance from Reykjavik: 5 hours drive OR 45-min flight Why: Driest region, highest clear sky probability
December Advantages:
- 20% better clear weather than south
- Less coastal cloud cover
- Myvatn Nature Baths (like Blue Lagoon, less crowded)
- Can combine with whale watching Husavik
Northern Lights Tour Options
Group Bus Tour (Budget-Friendly)
Cost: $50-80/person (3-4 hours) Departure: 8-9 PM from Reykjavik hotels Group Size: 20-40 people Success Rate: 60-70% (one night only)
Included:
- Hotel pickup/dropoff
- English-speaking guide
- Hot chocolate
- Photography tips
- Free rebooking if unsuccessful (within 2 years)
Best Operators:
- Reykjavik Excursions ($60)
- Gray Line ($70)
- Arctic Adventures ($75)
Small Group Tour (Best Value)
Cost: $120-180/person (4-6 hours) Group Size: 8-15 people Success Rate: 75-85% (more flexible, better locations)
Advantages:
- Smaller groups = more personal attention
- More flexible (chase best conditions)
- Better photo opportunities
- Professional aurora photography included
- Longer tours (increase chances)
Recommended:
- Hidden Iceland ($150)
- Northbound ($160)
- Arctic Shots ($180, photo-focused)
Private Tour (Ultimate Experience)
Cost: $500-900 for vehicle (1-4 people) Duration: Flexible (4-8 hours) Success Rate: 85-95% (maximum flexibility)
Why Go Private:
- Full control of locations and timing
- Professional photographer guide
- Stay out longer if aurora appears
- Combine with Blue Lagoon, ice caves
- Perfect for proposals, honeymoons
Multi-Night Packages:
- 3-night tour package: $300-500/person (multiple attempts)
- 80-90% success rate over 3 nights
- Best strategy for guaranteed sighting
DIY Northern Lights Hunting
Requirements:
- 4WD rental car ($80-150/day)
- Dark Sky Finder app (free)
- Aurora forecast app (My Aurora Forecast, $3)
- Warm clothing
- Thermos with hot drinks
- Camera equipment
Best Websites/Apps:
- vedur.is: Icelandic Met Office cloud cover forecast
- en.vedur.is/weather/forecasts/aurora: Aurora forecast
- My Aurora Forecast: Real-time Kp index
- road.is: Road conditions (check hourly!)
DIY Strategy:
- Check aurora forecast afternoon (Kp 3+ ideal)
- Check cloud cover forecast (clear skies essential)
- Drive 30-60 minutes from Reykjavik (any direction)
- Find safe parking away from lights
- Set up camera, wait, watch
💡 Pro Tips:
- Check forecast every hour (conditions change rapidly)
- Stay warm (car heater, dress in layers)
- Be patient (may take 30-60 minutes for aurora to appear/intensify)
- Multiple nights dramatically increase success
❄️ Iceland December Weather: What to Expect
Temperature & Conditions
Reykjavik Averages:
- Daytime: 0-2°C (32-36°F)
- Nighttime: -3 to 0°C (27-32°F)
- Windchill: Feels like -10 to -5°C (14-23°F)
- Humidity: 70-80%
North/Highland Conditions:
- 5-10°C colder than Reykjavik
- More snow accumulation
- Stronger winds
Daylight Hours
Early December:
- Sunrise: 11:10 AM
- Sunset: 3:50 PM
- Daylight: ~4 hours 40 minutes
Winter Solstice (Dec 21):
- Sunrise: 11:22 AM
- Sunset: 3:29 PM
- Daylight: ~4 hours 7 minutes (shortest day)
Late December:
- Sunrise: 11:20 AM
- Sunset: 3:45 PM
- Daylight: ~4 hours 25 minutes
Civil Twilight: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM (extended "blue hour" lighting)
Precipitation & Snow
Rainfall: 75mm over 10-12 days Snow: 15-25cm accumulation (varies by location) Weather Changes: Rapid (can change every 30 minutes) Storms: 5-8 per month (brief but intense)
Typical December Weather:
- Snow flurries (frequent but light)
- Rain mixed with snow
- Brief sunshine between storms
- Wind gusts 40-60 km/h
💡 Icelandic Saying: "If you don't like the weather, wait 5 minutes!"
Road Conditions
Main Routes (Ring Road):
- Generally passable with 4WD
- Closed during severe storms (2-12 hours)
- Ice and black ice common
- Cleared/gritted regularly
Highland Roads (F-Roads):
- CLOSED all December (snow-covered, impassable)
- Opens late June-early July only
Essential:
- Check road.is before every drive
- Call1777 (Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration)
- GPS coordinates for emergencies
- Emergency supplies in car (blanket, food, water)
🏔️ Top Iceland December Activities
Ice Cave Tours (December-March Only)
Why December is Perfect:
- Ice caves accessible only in winter (glacial ice frozen solid)
- Crystal blue ice formations
- Unique once-in-lifetime experience
Most Popular: Vatnajökull Ice Cave
Location: Southeast Iceland (near Jökulsárlón) Tour Cost: $150-200/person (4-5 hours) Departure: 9 AM, 11 AM, 1 PM (multiple daily) Duration: 2-3 hours at cave, 1 hour drive to glacier
What to Expect:
- Super Jeep ride to glacier base (thrilling!)
- 15-20 minute hike to ice cave entrance
- 30-45 minutes inside cave
- Professional guide (safety, photography tips)
- Helmets and crampons provided
Photography:
- Natural blue ice lighting (no filters needed)
- Dramatic ice formations
- Small group sizes (10-15 people)
Book Early: Ice cave tours sell out 2-4 weeks advance December
🔗 Book Ice Caves: Compare Ice Cave Tours | Vatnajökull Tours
Blue Lagoon (Year-Round Highlight)
Why Visit December:
- Stunning contrast (hot water 38°C, air -3°C)
- Steam rising dramatically in cold air
- Often combined with Northern Lights tours (evening)
- Snow-covered lava fields surrounding lagoon
Ticket Prices:
- Comfort: $70-90 (standard entry, towel, drink)
- Premium: $110-130 (robe, slippers, second drink, mask)
- Retreat Spa: $300+ (exclusive area, spa treatments)
Best Time:
- Late afternoon 3-5 PM (daylight + twilight)
- Evening 6-9 PM (darkness, possible aurora viewing)
Booking:
- Book 1-2 months early (sells out December)
- Specific time slots (30-min windows)
- Located 20 min from airport (perfect arrival/departure day)
What's Included:
- Unlimited lagoon time
- Silica mud mask (in-water stations)
- Steam rooms and saunas
Glacier Hiking (Iconic Iceland Experience)
Popular Glaciers:
- Sólheimajökull: 2.5 hours from Reykjavik (easiest access)
- Vatnajökull: Southeast Iceland (Europe's largest glacier)
- Svínafellsjökull: Near Jökulsárlón (dramatic scenery)
Tour Details:
- Cost: $100-150/person (3-4 hours)
- Difficulty: Moderate (no experience needed)
- Age: 10+ years typically
- Equipment: Crampons, ice axes, helmets (provided)
December Conditions:
- Frozen solid (safer than summer)
- Stunning ice formations
- Dramatic crevasses visible
- Professional guides essential
Whale Watching (Winter Season)
Best Locations:
- Reykjavik: Year-round, 3-hour tours
- Husavik: North Iceland, higher success rate
- Akureyri: North coast, humpback whales
December Whale Species:
- Humpback whales (most common)
- Minke whales
- Orcas (killer whales - occasional)
- White-beaked dolphins
Tour Cost: $80-110/person (2.5-3 hours) Success Rate: 70-80% December (lower than summer but still good) What to Wear: Provided warm overalls, but layer underneath
Golden Circle (Classic Day Tour)
Iceland's most popular route, stunning in winter:
Stops:
- Thingvellir National Park (UNESCO, tectonic plates)
- Geysir Geothermal Area (Strokkur erupts every 5-10 min)
- Gullfoss Waterfall (partially frozen December, spectacular)
Tour Options:
- Self-Drive: 6-8 hours, ~230km loop
- Group Bus Tour: $60-80 (8-9 hours)
- Private Tour: $300-500 (flexible timing)
December Tips:
- Start late morning (11 AM) due to daylight
- Finish by 4 PM before dark
- Roads can be icy (4WD essential for self-drive)
Reykjavik City Exploration
Top Attractions:
Hallgrímskirkja Church:
- Free entry, $10 tower climb
- Panoramic Reykjavik views
- Unique architecture (resembles basalt columns)
Harpa Concert Hall:
- Modern glass architecture
- Free to walk around
- Evening concerts (check schedule)
Old Harbor:
- Whale watching departures
- Restaurants and cafes
- Maritime museum
Laugavegur Street:
- Main shopping street
- Icelandic design shops (wool, design, art)
- Restaurants and cafes
December Christmas Markets:
- Ingólfstorg Square (early December)
- Small, charming Icelandic crafts
💰 Iceland December Budget Breakdown (7 Days)
Budget Traveler - $1,500-2,200 Total
Accommodation: $80-120/night hostels/guesthouses = $560-840 Food: $40-60/day supermarkets + budget restaurants = $280-420 Car Rental: 4WD $90/day (essential winter) = $630 Activities: Northern Lights tour $60, Golden Circle self-drive (fuel $80), Blue Lagoon $80 = $220 Total Daily: $210-315/day per person
What You Get:
- Hostel dorms or budget guesthouses
- Supermarket groceries + budget restaurants
- Self-drive flexibility (4WD essential)
- 2-3 paid activities
- Basic Northern Lights tour
Mid-Range Comfort - $2,500-3,500 Total
Accommodation: $150-250/night hotels/Airbnb = $1,050-1,750 Food: $70-100/day restaurants = $490-700 Car Rental: 4WD SUV $130/day = $910 Activities: Northern Lights tour $120, Ice cave $180, Blue Lagoon Premium $120, Golden Circle tour $80, Glacier hike $130 = $630 Total Daily: $355-500/day per person
What You Get:
- Comfortable hotels with breakfast
- Restaurant meals (mix of casual and nice)
- SUV rental (safer, more comfortable)
- Multiple premium tours
- Small group experiences
Luxury Experience - $5,000-8,000+ Total
Accommodation: $300-600/night luxury hotels = $2,100-4,200 Food: $150-250/day fine dining = $1,050-1,750 Car Rental: Luxury 4WD $200/day OR private driver $400/day = $1,400-2,800 Activities: Private Northern Lights $600, private ice cave $400, Blue Lagoon Retreat $350, helicopter tour $450, luxury experiences = $2,500+ Total Daily: $715-1,140/day per person
What You Get:
- Luxury hotels (ION Adventure, Retreat at Blue Lagoon)
- Fine dining restaurants
- Private guides and experiences
- Helicopter glacier tours
- VIP Northern Lights hunting
- Maximum comfort and flexibility
🗺️ Sample 7-Day Iceland December Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival & Blue Lagoon
Morning/Afternoon:
- Arrive Keflavik Airport (international)
- Pick up rental car (4WD essential)
- Drive 20 min to Blue Lagoon (2-3 hours)
Evening:
- Check into Reykjavik accommodation
- Light dinner (recover from jet lag)
- Early night (prepare for aurora hunting next days)
Day 2: Golden Circle & Northern Lights
Morning (11 AM):
- Depart Reykjavik for Golden Circle (self-drive or tour)
- Thingvellir National Park (1 hour)
- Geysir geothermal area (45 minutes)
Afternoon:
- Gullfoss waterfall (45 minutes)
- Return to Reykjavik by 4 PM (dark)
Evening:
- Dinner in Reykjavik (6-8 PM)
- Northern Lights tour departs 9 PM (return 12-1 AM)
Day 3: South Coast & Ice Cave
Morning (8 AM):
- Early departure for Southeast Iceland
- Seljalandsfoss waterfall (walk behind it!)
- Skógafoss waterfall (dramatic 60m drop)
Afternoon (1 PM):
- Ice cave tour at Vatnajökull (3 hours)
- Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon visit
- Diamond Beach (icebergs on black sand)
Evening:
- Overnight near Vik or Höfn (long day)
- DIY Northern Lights hunting from accommodation
Day 4: Return to Reykjavik or Explore East
Option A: Return West (If Based Reykjavik)
- Morning drive back (6 hours)
- Stop at Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
- Afternoon arrival Reykjavik
Option B: Extend East (If Time Permits)
- Explore Eastfjords
- Scenic coastal driving
- Remote landscapes
Evening:
- Reykjavik dinner and nightlife
Day 5: Snaefellsnes Peninsula
Full Day (9 AM-5 PM):
- Drive to Snaefellsnes (2 hours)
- Kirkjufell Mountain (photography)
- Arnarstapi coastal walk
- Djúpalónssandur black sand beach
- Búðakirkja black church
- Return to Reykjavik
Evening:
- Northern Lights attempt #2 (if unsuccessful Day 2)
Day 6: Reykjavik Exploration & Relaxation
Daytime:
- Late start (11 AM, short daylight)
- Hallgrímskirkja Church tower
- Old Harbor walk
- Harpa Concert Hall
- Shopping on Laugavegur Street
Afternoon:
- Laugardalslaug geothermal pool (budget Blue Lagoon alternative, $8)
- Coffee shop culture
Evening:
- Nice dinner at Grillmarkadurinn or Dill
- Nightlife on Laugavegur (bars open until 4 AM)
Day 7: Departure
Morning:
- Pack, check out
- Last-minute souvenir shopping
- Drive to Keflavik Airport (45 min)
Alternative:
- Add glacier hiking if missed earlier
- Visit Reykjanes Peninsula geothermal areas
🎒 What to Pack for Iceland December
Clothing Layers (Critical!)
Base Layer (Next to Skin):
- ✅ Merino wool thermal tops (3-4)
- ✅ Merino wool thermal bottoms (2-3)
- ✅ Wool socks (5-7 pairs, extras essential)
- ✅ Thermal underwear
Mid Layer (Insulation):
- ✅ Fleece jacket or wool sweater (2)
- ✅ Down vest (optional but useful)
- ✅ Warm pants (not jeans - cotton holds moisture)
Outer Layer (Protection):
- ✅ Waterproof windproof jacket (Gore-Tex or similar)
- ✅ Waterproof pants (essential!)
- ✅ Insulated winter coat (for standing still during aurora)
Footwear & Accessories
Shoes:
- ✅ Waterproof hiking boots (primary footwear)
- ✅ Crampons/ice cleats ($15-30, essential for ice)
- ✅ Indoor shoes (for accommodations)
Accessories:
- ✅ Warm hat (wool or fleece)
- ✅ Waterproof gloves (2 pairs - one gets wet)
- ✅ Neck gaiter or scarf
- ✅ Hand warmers (10-20 packs)
- ✅ Sunglasses (snow glare intense)
Aurora Photography Gear
Camera Equipment:
- ✅ DSLR or mirrorless camera (manual mode essential)
- ✅ Wide-angle lens (14-24mm ideal)
- ✅ Sturdy tripod (lightweight but stable)
- ✅ Extra batteries (cold drains fast)
- ✅ Headlamp with red light mode
Camera Settings:
- ISO: 1600-3200
- Aperture: f/2.8 or wider
- Shutter: 10-25 seconds
- Manual focus: Infinity
Other Essentials
- ✅ Reusable water bottle
- ✅ Thermos for hot drinks
- ✅ Snacks (bars, nuts - expensive in Iceland)
- ✅ Power bank (cold drains phones)
- ✅ European plug adapter (Type C, F)
- ✅ Prescription medications
- ✅ Lip balm (wind chapping)
- ✅ Moisturizer (very dry air)
⚠️ Important Iceland December Tips
Driving Safety
Essential Skills:
- Experience driving in snow/ice
- Understanding 4WD systems
- Patience and slow speeds
Rules:
- Headlights ON 24/7 (law)
- Speed limits lower in winter (strictly enforced)
- Pull over if conditions worsen
- Single-lane bridges (yield properly)
Emergency:
- Call 112 (emergency services)
- Stay in car if stuck (don't walk in blizzard)
- GPS coordinates for location
- Car rental includes emergency number
Weather Preparedness
Check Daily:
- vedur.is (weather forecast)
- road.is (road conditions)
- en.vedur.is/weather/forecasts/aurora (Northern Lights)
Be Flexible:
- Tours may cancel due to weather (safety first)
- Roads close with 2 hours notice
- Have backup plans for every day
Budget Tips
Save Money:
- Supermarket groceries: Bonus, Krónan (cheapest)
- Skip expensive restaurants (Icelandic hot dogs $5 vs burger $25)
- Cook at accommodation with kitchen
- Free geothermal pools (local pools $8 vs Blue Lagoon $80)
Expensive Items:
- Alcohol (beer $8-12, wine $60-100/bottle)
- Restaurants ($25-50/main course)
- Gas ($2/liter, fill tank before Ring Road drives)
- Tours ($100-200 per activity)
❓ FAQs: Iceland December 2025
Will I definitely see Northern Lights?
Nothing is guaranteed with nature, but December offers excellent odds: 70-80% success over 3-4 nights. Success requires: Clear skies (check vedur.is), aurora activity (Kp 3+), darkness (plenty in December), multiple attempts, and flexibility. Book multi-night packages or stay 5+ days for 90%+ probability. Weather is biggest variable - storms clear to reveal aurora, but persistent cloud cover blocks viewing.
Can beginners handle Iceland winter driving?
Iceland December driving is challenging: Ice, black ice, sudden storms, short daylight, and strong winds require experience. If you've never driven in snow/ice, consider: Guided tours instead of self-drive, domestic flights between regions, or hire private driver ($400/day). If driving: Rent 4WD, add full insurance, study winter driving techniques, drive 30-50% slower than summer, and be prepared to cancel plans if conditions worsen.
Is Iceland crowded in December?
NO! December is low season with 60-70% fewer tourists than peak summer (June-August). Advantages: Better accommodation rates, tours not sold out, fewer people at attractions, authentic local experience. Reykjavik nightlife still vibrant, restaurants open, all major tours operating. Christmas week (Dec 20-26) busier but nothing like summer crowds.
What if weather ruins my plans?
Iceland weather is unpredictable December - accept this before booking. Strategies: Build 2-3 buffer days for weather delays, book flexible accommodation (free cancellation), accept tour cancellations (safety first), have indoor backup plans (museums, cafes, geothermal pools), embrace weather as part of adventure. Tours usually offer rebooking or refunds for weather cancellations.
Can I see Iceland highlights in winter?
Most major highlights accessible December: Blue Lagoon (year-round), Golden Circle (roads usually clear), Reykjavik (always open), South Coast to Vik (accessible with 4WD), Jökulsárlón (5-hour drive), Snaefellsnes (usually accessible). NOT accessible: Highland F-roads (closed), Landmannalaugar (closed), some remote areas. Focus on south and west coasts for reliable access.
🎯 Final Tips for Perfect Iceland December Trip
Book These NOW (October 2025)
✅ Flights to Keflavik (December prices rise 30-50%) ✅ 4WD rental car (limited December availability) ✅ Blue Lagoon tickets (sells out 1-2 months early) ✅ Ice cave tours (book 2-4 weeks advance) ✅ Accommodation (best rates booking early)
The Northern Lights Success Formula
- Stay 5-7 nights (multiple viewing attempts)
- Book multi-night tour (3 attempts = 80%+ success)
- Be flexible (chase clear skies different regions)
- Check forecast daily (plan around weather)
- Stay out 2-3 hours (aurora intensifies, fades, intensifies)
Budget Reality Check
Minimum Iceland Trip (7 days):
- Budget: $1,500-2,200/person
- Mid-range: $2,500-3,500/person
- Luxury: $5,000-8,000+/person
Add international flights: $500-1,200/person
Top Money-Saving Move
💡 Cook own breakfasts and some dinners:
- Save $30-50/day per person
- Supermarkets: Bonus, Krónan (cheapest)
- Accommodations with kitchens
💡 Skip Blue Lagoon for local pools:
- Save $60-70 per person
- Laugardalslaug (Reykjavik): $8 entry, same geothermal experience
- Myvatn Nature Baths (North): $40, less touristy
Common Mistakes to Avoid (Iceland December Travel)
Mistake #1: Expecting to see Northern Lights on first night only
Why it happens: Travelers book 2-3 night trips expecting guaranteed Aurora viewing, not realizing weather/clouds impact visibility.
How to avoid: Book minimum 4-5 nights for 80%+ viewing success. Northern Lights tours operate multiple nights—if first night is cloudy, you have backup chances.
Mistake #2: Not booking ice cave tours 6+ weeks ahead
Why it happens: Assuming winter tours have availability, not realizing limited daily capacity (safety restrictions).
How to avoid: Book ice cave tours by early November for December dates. Only 15-20 people per tour, sells out 4-6 weeks ahead during peak season.
Mistake #3: Renting 2WD vehicle for December driving
Why it happens: Trying to save $30-50/day on vehicle rental.
How to avoid: 4WD mandatory for Iceland December. Roads have ice, snow, and sudden closures. Most insurance won't cover 2WD accidents on winter roads.
Mistake #4: Underestimating wind chill factor
Why it happens: Packing for -3 to 2°C temps without considering 40-60 km/h winds.
How to avoid: Wind makes -3°C feel like -15°C. Pack windproof outer layer, face protection, insulated gloves. Regular winter coat insufficient—need Arctic-rated gear.
Mistake #5: Skipping travel insurance for December
Why it happens: Assuming nothing will go wrong or insurance unnecessary.
How to avoid: December weather causes frequent flight delays, tour cancellations, road closures. Comprehensive travel insurance (medical + cancellation) essential—medical evacuation can cost $50,000+.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is December a good time to see Northern Lights in Iceland?
YES! December is one of the best months for Northern Lights in Iceland with 18-20 hours of darkness, peak aurora activity, clear winter skies, and multiple viewing opportunities each night. December averages 15-20 Northern Lights sightings per month with optimal viewing between 9 PM-2 AM.
Book multi-night tours (3-4 nights minimum) for 80%+ success rates. Single-night tours have only 45% success due to weather variables. December's extended darkness provides 8+ hour viewing windows versus 4-5 hours in September/October.
What's the weather like in Iceland in December?
Iceland December is cold but manageable: -3 to 2°C (27-36°F) air temperature, but wind chill makes it feel -10 to -15°C. Expect 4-5 hours of daylight (11 AM-4 PM), 75mm rainfall, unpredictable rapid weather changes including snow, wind, rain, and occasional sunshine in the same day.
Layer with thermal base layers, fleece mid-layer, waterproof windproof shell, insulated winter coat, and Arctic-rated gloves. Weather is harsh but the stunning winter landscapes and Aurora opportunities make it worthwhile.
How much daylight does Iceland have in December?
Iceland has only 4-5 hours of daylight in December: sunrise approximately 11:20 AM, sunset 3:30 PM in Reykjavik. Winter solstice (December 21) brings the shortest day with just 4 hours 7 minutes of daylight. However, civil twilight extends useful light from 9 AM-5 PM for photography and activities.
Limited daylight is actually advantageous for Northern Lights hunting (18-20 hours of darkness) and creates stunning blue hour lighting conditions perfect for photography. Plan indoor activities for midday, save outdoor exploration for twilight hours.
Is Iceland expensive in December?
Iceland is expensive year-round, but December offers 20-30% better value than peak summer (June-August). Accommodation: Budget $80-150/night, mid-range $150-300/night, luxury $300-600+/night. Total 7-day trip costs: Budget $1,500-2,500/person, mid-range $2,500-3,500, luxury $5,000+.
December savings: Hotels cheaper, rental cars discounted, tour prices lower than summer. Book flights 2-3 months early and accommodation 1-2 months ahead for best rates. Early December (1-15) is 25% cheaper than Christmas/New Year weeks (December 20-January 5).
Can you drive in Iceland in December?
YES, but it's challenging and requires experience. December mandates 4WD vehicle rental ($80-150/day), winter tires (included), and flexible itinerary for sudden road closures. Ring Road often remains accessible but highland roads close entirely. Self-drive is risky for inexperienced winter drivers.
Consider guided tours instead ($100-200/day all-inclusive)—guides know road conditions, have proper vehicles, and adjust routes for weather. Check road.is website daily for conditions. Roads can close with 2 hours notice due to storms.
What should I pack for Iceland in December?
Layer aggressively: thermal base layers (merino wool), fleece mid-layer, waterproof windproof shell, insulated Arctic-rated winter coat, waterproof pants, waterproof hiking boots, multiple wool socks, warm hat, insulated gloves, neck gaiter/balaclava, hand/toe warmers, crampons for ice walking. Expect to adjust layers 3-5 times daily due to rapid weather changes.
Don't underestimate wind chill—feels 10-15°C colder than thermometer reading. Bring backup gloves (first pair will get wet). Waterproof everything essential—Iceland's "dry" season still brings rain/snow.
Geographic Targeting Notes:
Australia (AU):
- No direct flights—connections through Dubai (DXB), Singapore (SIN), or London (LHR)
- Journey time: 24-30 hours total with layovers
- December is Australian summer holiday—popular for Northern Lights escape
- Currency: ISK-AUD exchange typically challenging (1 AUD = 90-95 ISK)
United Kingdom (UK):
- Direct flights from LHR/LGW to Reykjavik (KEF) 3-3.5 hours via Icelandair, British Airways, easyJet
- December very popular for UK travelers (short flight, dramatic winter change)
- Time difference: Iceland on GMT year-round (same as UK winter)
- Weekend Northern Lights breaks common
United States (US):
- Direct flights from BOS/JFK/EWR (5-6 hours), SEA/DEN (7-8 hours) to Reykjavik
- Iceland perfect stopover on Europe trips (Icelandair free stopover program)
- USD-ISK exchange rate typically favorable (1 USD = 135-140 ISK)
- Peak travel: Christmas week and New Year
🔗 Related Iceland & Winter Guides
Essential Reading:
- Best Places to Travel in December 2025 - Compare Iceland with 14 other destinations
- Iceland January 2026 Guide - Extended winter season
Ready to chase the Northern Lights in Iceland? Book NOW for December 2025!