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Learn how to easily plan your dream trip to Iceland with helpful guides and tips!

Iceland In February: 7 Things to Know Before You Go

November 26, 2023 //  by  Iceland Trippers //   4 Comments

Iceland In February means crisp winter air, a chance to see the northern lights, beautiful snow, fewer crowds, and cheaper prices.

For all of these reasons, planning a trip to Iceland in February is perfect for any tourist looking for a winter adventure!

I recommend traveling during this time because Iceland in winter is truly magical! Enjoy classic landscapes covered in snow or warm up in a scenic hot spring.

Planning your trip to Iceland last minute?

Make sure to book your hotels and tours in Iceland in advance to ensure availability! The longer you wait, the more difficult it gets. Here are my top picks for your trip :

Top Experiences And Tours In Iceland:

• Golden Circle Full Day Tour From Reykjavik (Likely to sell out!)
• Silfra Snorkeling Tour (Includes photos + only small group)
• South Of Iceland Full Day Trip (Our pick!)
• Whale Watching In Reykjavik (On a luxury yacht)
• Northern Lights Bus Tour (Great to go with a local)
• Ice Cave Tour And Glacier Hike (Likely to sell out)

Tickets You MUST book in advance:

• Keflavik > Reykjavik Bus Airport Transfer (Skip the line!)
• Sky Lagoon Entrance Ticket (Includes 7-step spa ritual)
• Blue Lagoon Entry Ticket With Drink (Likely to sell out!)

Top picks for places to stay in Iceland:

• Hotel South Coast (Great central location)
• Grandi Reykjavik (Includes free breakfast)
• Hotel Kria (Close to black sand beach)
• Hotel Skaftafell (Mid-range price)

Though the weather in Iceland in February is consistently cold, you should not miss out on the country’s winter!

If you’re looking for things to do in Iceland in February, I’ve got you covered with suggestions for day trips to thundering waterfalls or festivals in the capital.

In other words, you’re in for a great time in a remarkable country.

Keep reading for my best tips on writing an Iceland itinerary for February!

Pack for Both the Cold and the Wind

February is one of the coldest months of the year in Iceland. The temperature in Iceland in February reaches an average high of about 37 degrees F. You must be prepared for the cold!

What makes the Iceland February weather particularly rough is its versatility and unpredictability.

Packing for Iceland in February can be a pain because you have to prepare for every type of weather including sunshine, harsh winds, rain, and snow. 

Many tourists expect snow and even rain, but the wind catches many by surprise. You’ll likely get wind for at least part of every day. Wind speeds reach up to over 15 miles per hour.

In addition to heavy winter coats , rain jackets , and waterproof hiking boots , you’ll need to bring a windbre a ker to brace yourself against the mighty Icelandic winds. 

The Iceland weather in February changes frequently throughout the day. As long as you know what to expect and come prepared, you’ll have a wonderful trip no matter what weather is thrown your way.

Do not let the Iceland temperatures in February dissuade you from getting out and about!

Daylight Hours Start To Get Longer Again

Though I just talked about February being one of the coldest months in Iceland, the good news is that the daylight hours are starting to get longer again. 

Winter in Iceland can be rough with seemingly never-ending darkness, but in February the island gains a whopping 6 minutes of sunlight a day.

Though relative to the other seasons, the sun still rises late and sets early. There’s a significant difference between February and the few months preceding it.

Much of Iceland’s beauty and appeal lies outdoors, so having more hours of daylight during February in Iceland is crucial when it comes to exploring the country.

You’ll have plenty of time to adventure throughout the day and still have the opportunity to see the northern lights at night.

There is a High Chance of Seeing the Northern Lights

From roughly September to April, the northern lights in Iceland have the potential to grace the sky on a clear, crisp night.

Visiting Iceland in February greatly increases your chances of seeing this spectacular natural phenomenon.

As you hunt for the notoriously elusive northern lights, it’s important to keep in mind that nature is fickle and doesn’t always deliver the exact result you want.

Dark skies away from city lights give you the best chance of seeing the northern lights on a high-activity night. Though it is possible to see the northern lights in Reykjavik when the aurora is particularly strong, the probability increases the further venture.

There are two great options for searching for the northern lights. 

If you enjoy having control of your own schedule and have access to a rental car, driving out in search of the lights yourself can be the perfect option. 

Be sure to track the aurora’s strength and visibility. When the forecast is high, pick a dark part of the island and feast your eyes on the dancing light show. 

The other option is to take a guided northern lights tour . This makes the experience easy as all the work is done for you. The guides keep up to date with the forecast and know the best places to take you.

Most tour companies will allow you to book another tour at no extra cost if you weren’t able to see the northern lights the first time around. 

However, if you’re lucky enough to spot the northern lights in February in Iceland, you’re in for a real treat!

Book Here: Iceland: Northern Lights Bus Tour from Reykjavik

Bring a Swimsuit to Take Advantage of Natural Hot Springs

The hot tubs and hot springs in Iceland are amazing at any time of year! But thanks to the weather, the escape from the cold becomes increasingly appealing during February in Iceland.

There’s nothing quite so magical as thawing out in the warm water of a hot spring! Gaze out at the ocean and mountains beyond while a thin film of snow drapes itself around you.

Every town in Iceland has a public pool complex complete with a heated outdoor swimming pool and at least one hot tub. Some of the larger complexes, especially the ones in Reykjavik, have multiple hot tubs of varying temperatures. 

Natural, geothermally heated hot springs are a wonderful more remote alternative to the public pools.

Located throughout the country in some of the most picturesque spots on the island, you can relax in the warm water while enjoying the stunning natural landscape around you. 

Another option is to head to any one of the major lagoons such as the iconic Blue Lagoon, the Mývatn Nature Baths (the Blue Lagoon of the north), or the upscale Sky Lagoon .

These cost money and cater to a more touristy crowd, but the Blue Lagoon in particular is quite spectacular. It is worth breaking out the wallet at least once!

Book Here: From Reykjavik: Blue Lagoon Admission with Transfers

Book Here: Reykjavik: Sky Lagoon Entrance Pass With 7-Step Spa Ritual

Road Conditions can be Dicey, so Don’t Take Risks!

Adventure awaits you, but before you head out on those potentially icy, snowy roads in Iceland during February, there are a handful of things to keep in mind. 

It’s incredibly important to continuously check the road c onditions and road closures. The f-roads into the highlands and parts of the Ring Road are closed for much of the winter.

Taking day trips from Reykjavik such as driving the Golden Circle route is entirely possible if you first ensure the roads are clear and safe to navigate. 

You’re unlikely to have problems driving in and around Reykjavik because the roads are frequently plowed and salted. I suggest exercising caution nonetheless. 

Driving in Iceland often boils down to using basic common sense.

Unfortunately, there are enough over-confident tourist drivers to keep the search and rescue teams busy. I know you’re anxious to explore the wonders of Iceland, but it’s not worth risking your safety. 

If you plan on renting a car in Iceland in February, you’ll find the car will come equipped with winter tires. This doesn’t mean they’re completely fool-proof, however, they make driving on ice much safer. 

On the rare occasion the sun comes out, bring along a pair of sunglasses. The sun reflecting off the ice can be particularly blinding.

Make sure your car is filled with antifreeze windshield washer fluid as well to keep your windshields clean and your vision clear. 

Reykjavik Lights Up For The Winter Lights Festival

If you visit Reykjavik in February, I suggest attending the Winter Lights Festival celebration.

This three-day celebration is designed for locals and tourists to embrace the joys of winter and simultaneously rejoice in the increasingly longer days. 

For these three days, the city comes to life, sparkling with mesmerizing light displays featured on major buildings such as the iconic Hallgrímskirkja church and the Harpa Concert Hall.

With the help of artificial light, the dark days suddenly turn bright! You can’t help but smile and celebrate. 

From Museum Night to Pool Night and all the activities in between, you have the opportunity to embrace the culture and beauty of Iceland’s capital city.

Be sure to c heck the event website for dates and activities.

This event is one of the best things to do in Reykjavik in February and should not be missed!

Day Trips Make the Most Sense When Visiting Iceland in February 

Iceland’s Ring Road is spectacular and makes for a great multi-week summer expedition. In the winter months, however, day trips tend to make the most sense.

Many sections of the Ring Road as well as the f-roads tend to close down for much of the winter making it difficult to venture too far from the capital. 

In Iceland in February, the south coast will be your friend.

Iceland’s south coast is home to some of the country’s most spectacular waterfalls such as Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss among other more hidden gems. 

Other unusual and fascinating stops include the Sólheimasandur Plane Crash and the Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach .

Further east, you’ll reach the Jökuls árlón Glacier Lagoon where you can admire floating icebergs backed by majestic glaciers. 

The famous Golden Circle route is another great option that allows you to hit Iceland’s most iconic tourist spots all in one trip.

The three major stops include Thingvellir National Park, the Strokkur geyser, and Gullfoss waterfall . A volcanic caldera, a geothermally heated lagoon, and more lie on this route as well. 

In the northwest lies the Snæfellsnes Peninsula which is home to the postcard-worthy landscape of Kirkjufell mountain and the Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall among other natural wonders.

Whether you’re admiring the basalt columns or gazing down into a volcanic crater, you’re sure to enjoy your time on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. 

Sticking to day trips might seem limiting, but when you discover how much there is to see within a few hours from the capital, you’ll realize there is more than enough to see and do on your Iceland travels.

Book Here: From Reykjavik: Golden Circle and Glacier Ice Cave Tour

We loved visiting Iceland in February and hope you get the opportunity to as well.

With the possibility of catching the elusive northern lights or relaxing in a hot pot with the landscape around you draped in snow, it’s nearly impossible not to book your ticket immediately.

Everywhere you turn there is something new and equally stunning to enjoy. February is the perfect time to see it all.

If you have any questions or comments as you begin planning your trip to Iceland in February please feel free to let me know.

Reader Interactions

July 24, 2022 at 8:19 am

Thanks for such a great article !! Need to know cons of travelling to Iceland in Fenruary in comparison to July-August.

July 31, 2022 at 6:41 pm

Cons are it is colder and less sunlight and you can’t do the highlands if that is something on your list!

January 20, 2023 at 3:08 pm

Really interesting article. I go in 3 weeks. Have prebooked tours directly with a company in Reykjavik. Not sure I realise how cold it’s going to be!! I know earing out is expensive any tips on that?!

January 31, 2023 at 9:29 pm

Hello!! It will be cold, but no colder than the northern USA! the wind is what will be annoying, so wear windproof things! i am confused what “earing out” means 🙂 but happy to help! thanks!

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Iceland in February

Everything you need to know about visiting Iceland in February

• Is February good time to visit
• Good to know
• THINGS TO DO
• THINGS TO DO IN REYKJAVIK
• Best things to see

Related Tours

Related blogs.

Just about any time of the year is a good time to visit Iceland, but February is especially magical.

The weather is milder than you think, it’s prime time to see the Northern Lights and much of the country is caked in the beautiful snow. Thanks to the warm gulf stream, which flows in close proximity to Iceland, the weather is much milder than is usual for such a northerly latitude. Normally, most of the country is covered with snow in February. However, the capital and the south of the country will sometimes get warmer temperatures, so from time to time, the snow will melt.

February is an absolutely ideal month for those who are eager to join a   Northern Lights tour , explore  Iceland’s ice caves , try out some winter activities or   enjoy Iceland’s natural hot springs and geothermal pools .

Is February a good time to visit Iceland?

In short, yes. While the weather is much more hospitable than in the depths of winter, it’s still got the magical, snow-sprinkled atmosphere.  Also, February is one of the best times of the year to see the Northern Lights (more on that below) and the country is alive with events, activities and the promise of spring.

It’s also a less busy month in terms of tourism, so you’ll get more space to yourself at the tourist sites, bars and restaurants.

Reykjavik's Hallgrímskirkja Church in Winter

Good to know before visiting Iceland in February

• February is the perfect month for   Ice Cave Tours , make sure to book in advance though it is very popular.
• Bathing in a   hot spring or a geothermal swimming pool   might not sound like a great winter activity but   the contrast between hot water and cold weather is just perfect !
• During the last couple of years, Iceland has had a lot of snow in February, creating a real winter wonderland,   be prepared when packing !
• We only recommend rental cars   in February to those who are used to driving in snow and ice.
• Places like   Þingvellir National Park   that are visited a lot can still be quite   icy. Bring with you some ice/ snow grips or spikes for under your shoes   or buy them at any local gas station or activity shop, they are usually cheap and well worth it.

Floating icebergs at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

WEATHER IN ICELAND IN FEBRUARY: HOW COLD IS IT IN ICELAND IN FEBRUARY?

Temperature in iceland in february.

Winter in Iceland is very unpredictable. Frankly, it would be easier to tell you what not to expect than what you should when   visiting Iceland in winter . The chance of precipitation in February is quite high and it can come in any form, so be prepared for snow, rain, sleet, and, of course, sunshine!

Frozen lake in Reykjavik

You can also expect strong winds, storms and sometimes blizzards with extremes of temperature – even experiencing all of these in a single day. The average temperatures are usually between -3 and +3°C (26-34° Fahrenheit) in February – mild by Icelandic standards!

IS THERE SNOW IN ICELAND IN FEBRUARY?

If you’re looking for snow, you’ll have the best luck up north.

The weather is colder, darker and icier with more snow in the north than in the south of the country. Keep this in mind if you are   planning a Ring Road trip . Also, check out the   Iceland weather forecast   for the whole year.

Is the Blue Lagoon open in February?

Yes, and it’s a popular time to visit this wonderful, natural spa. The geothermically heated water is rich with silica and minerals, providing a comforting, soothing treatment for the body and mind. It’s also located in a fascinating part of the world, with scored lands and distinct vistas as far as the eye can see.

The Blue Lagoon   is among the most popular sites in the country, so we’d recommend booking in advance.  And yes, we provide a range of   Blue Lagoon Tours .

Blue Lagoon Spa in Iceland

Driving in February in Iceland

Since the weather is very unpredictable, it is extremely important to monitor the   weather forecast   and   road conditions   closely, heeding   safety warnings   and not taking chances is always important.

The road between the capital and Keflavik airport   is the best-maintained road in Iceland, but sometimes even this road becomes impassable for a brief period of time.

The Ring Road   is usually well maintained, the farther you travel from the capital the icier the road becomes, with heavier snowfalls.

If you plan to drive around Iceland at this time of year it is a good idea to rent a 4X4 car with full insurance cover. If you don’t have much experience of driving in snowy, windy and icy conditions, for your own safety, we strongly recommend you choose a guided tour instead. As well as being the safest option, it will be far more relaxing for you. Read more about   driving in Iceland .

Packing for Iceland in February

February, like most months in Iceland, is the month to dress in layers. While it’s nowhere near as cold as say, December, you can still expect ice and snow. Essentials on your packing list are:

• Hat, scarf, and gloves
• Wool or thermal underwear
• Good sturdy boots (hiking boots are best)
• Warm sweater and pants
• Waterproof and windproof shell layer
• Swimming wear
• Lipsticks/lip balms

For the Iceland trip in February pack your suitcase full of warm clothes

Iceland hours of daylight in February

The difference in the length of daylight between the first and the last day of February is quite noticeable. We gain more than 6 minutes of daylight every single day of the month.

Reykjavik at night during the midnight sun

In   Reykjavík , on February 1 st , sunrise is at 10:08, with sunset happening at 17:15, which means 7 hours of daylight. On the last day of the month, the sun rises around 8:39 and sets at 6:43, providing 10 hours of daylight in total. In   Akureyri , thanks to its northerly location, the first day of February has just 6 hours and 40 minutes of daylight. However, at the end of the month, there are almost ten hours of daylight, placing Akureyri almost on par with Reykjavík. Akureyri gains more than seven minutes of glorious sunlight every day throughout February.

Can you see the Northern Lights in Iceland in February?

This is probably the best time to see the   Northern Lights . They tend to be especially visible in February, plus the weather is more hospitable than in the winter months. Our   Northern Lights tours   will bring you right to the heart of it, where you can witness the cosmic ballet of Icelandic skies first-hand.

People admiring Northern Lights in Iceland

THINGS TO DO IN ICELAND IN FEBRUARY

If you're still wondering what to do in Iceland in February, there are many winter activities waiting here for you. This is the time when many roads and tours, previously closed in winter, open up and welcome visitors.

As well as the  sightseeing tours  and organized  multi-day tours  around the country, here are some especially fun things to do in Iceland this month…

VISITING ICE CAVES IN ICELAND IN FEBRUARY

Natural ice caves can only be visited in winter, so make the most of the opportunity to see these crystalline beauties for yourself – before they disappear in the spring.

Ice caves collapse and form again each year, so you can come back annually to Iceland and you will never see the same ice cave twice.

Blue Ice Cave in Vatnajokull Glacier in South Iceland

SNOWMOBILING IN ICELAND IN FEBRUARY

Naturally, winter activities like   snowmobiling tours   are an absolute blast in February. You get to marvel at the humbling nature, while experiencing the excitement of a high-speed snow vehicle.

Snowmobiling tour on Langjokull Glacier, Iceland

These tours take place on the spectacular   Langjökull glacier   and can range from one-day jaunts to multi-day trips.

Speaking of glaciers…

GLACIER HIKING IN ICELAND IN FEBRUARY

Unsurprisingly, glacier hiking is among the best things to do in February, bringing you to these incredible frozen rivers and the awe-inspiring landscapes that they live on. Our   glacier tours  run the gamut, from beginner’s trips to those fit for glacier veterans!

Guided Glacier Hike in Skaftafell National Park

LAVA CAVING IN ICELAND IN FEBRUARY

Lava caving   is also a popular activity this time of the year since the temperatures in the caves are somewhat milder than the temperatures above the ground.

Check our Black & Blue experience , which combines lava caves and snorkeling.

Raufarholshellir Lava Cave in Iceland

VISITING SECRET LAGOON IN ICELAND IN FEBRUARY

If you plan to visit the   Golden Circle , you might want to stop at the   Secret Lagoon , which is a natural hot spring with 39°C (102°F) water.

Secret Lagoon Hot Spring in Iceland

SNORKELING AT THE SILFRA FISSURE IN ICELAND IN FEBRUARY

Snorkeling and diving between the continents   are also possible in winter because the water in   Silfra fissure   never freezes. The tour operators provide thick dry suits so you will stay dry and comfortable whilst exploring in between the tectonic plates – a sensational and out of this world diving experience .

Snorkeling tour at Silfra Fissure in Iceland

BEST THINGS TO DO IN REYKJAVIK IN FEBRUARY

The Icelandic capital offers a range of activities as the days get longer and Icelanders and visitors alike venture outside to explore. Browse our Reykjavík tours today and find the perfect tour from the capital for you and your family in February.

Here are some of the best things to do in Reykjavik this month…

WHAT TO DO IN REYKJAVIK IN FEBRUARY?

Reykjavik city with Hallgrímskirkja church in winter

Winter cold in Downtown Reykjavík is no problem with its endless cafés and bars to jump in for some Gluehwein or hot cocoa.

Foodies might enjoy our famous   Reykjavik Food Tour .

Also, there are plenty of shops and interesting places to visit and if the weather is bad. There are even a few very   interesting museums   close to each other to wait for the storm out. For example:

• The Penis Museum
• Safna húsið e. The Culture House
• Reykjavík Art Museum Hafnarhús
• The National Museum of Iceland

Best things to see in February in Iceland

There’s no shortage of beautiful things to see in February, from man-made attractions to natural wonders…

Harpa Musical Hall lighting up at night

Harpa Musical Hall , in downtown Reykjavík, is an architectural delight. And its light show at the front of the building is spellbinding. It’s a perfect view to take in on a post-dinner stroll through the capital.

Harpa Concert Hall in Reykjavik

Frozen Waterfalls

If you travel to Iceland in the cool months you are likely to catch the island in its Winter Wonderland mode, which means frozen waterfalls, snowy mountains, and white landscapes. The latter two you can see from Reykjavík but making your way out of the city to see the frozen waterfalls is also a must. You won’t regret it. Here are a few options:

• South Coast Waterfalls and Glacier Hike from Reykjavik
• South Coast, Jokulsarlon & Diamond Beach Day Tour From Reykjavik
• 6-day Adventure Around Iceland

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall in South Coast of Iceland during winter

Icelandic Horses in Full Fur Mode

Icelandic horses   are a true totem of the country. There is only one “type” of horse found in Iceland and it has been kept in complete insulation here, mixed with no other breed.

The Icelandic horse has been in Iceland for over 1000 years and let’s just say that they have adapted to life on the island. In winter they grow their fur to the max, turning them into impossible adorable furballs.

Icelandic horse in snowy field

We have numerous   horse-riding tours , whether you’re looking to do it as one activity, or combine it with others.

EVENTS IN ICELAND IN FEBRUARY

As mentioned, there’s a lot happening in Iceland in the month between winter and spring. For instance…

Sónar Music Festival   is one of the biggest music events in Iceland, showcasing world-renowned artists and new talents. This three-night-long electronic music festival certainly shakes up the capital!

The Winter Lights Festival is a four-day festival in Reykjavik, usually held around the first weekend of the month. It is in celebration of all forms of light and the return of longer and much brighter days. Numerous exciting events take place in the city, such as Museum Night, Swimming Pool Night and the Northern Lights Run.

Gay Pride Rainbow flag

Reykjavík Rainbow Pride   – This winter edition is a smaller and more intimate gay pride than the one in August. The event is held over four days to celebrate diversity and equality.

Valentine´s Day   is not overly celebrated in Iceland, but many foreign visitors come at that time to enjoy a romantic holiday under the Northern Lights. Geothermal pools, private tours, and food tasting tours are excellent ways to enjoy an idyllic vacation and unforgettable moments with someone very special.

Bolludagur   is the ‘bun day’, six weeks before Easter. On this day everyone is supposed to eat meatballs, fish balls, and cream-filled buns, with an emphasis on the latter one, of course! The cafés, restaurants, and bakeries are filled with cream buns in all sizes, tastes, and colours. These delightful confections are usually light in texture, and filled with both jam and whipped cream.

Sprengidagur,   or “Eat- Until-You-Burst-Day”, is the day after Bolludagur. Originally, it was the Icelandic equivalent of Mardi Gras, a day of celebration and a great feast before the fasting season of Lent. This day is about eating rich, fatty, salty foods, traditionally, lentil soup with vegetables and salted meat, specifically mutton: “saltkjöt og baunir”.

Öskudagur,   or Ash Wednesday, is the day after Sprengidagur, 40 days before Easter. Children dress in costumes and walk from store to store where they sing songs in return for candy, costume-wise absolutely anything goes, the more inventive the better! Many tourists and people who have come to live in Iceland from overseas pick up on the singing for candy bit and say this is Iceland´s answer to Halloween or All Hallows Eve.  Icelandic children love Öskudagur as much as children in other lands love Halloween, but that’s where the similarity ends: There are no ghostly themes, pumpkin lanterns, or pagan undertones, and ghoulish Öskudagur costumes are very rarely seen.

See you in February!

Selfie with an Hallgrímskirkja church in the background

February, as you can see, is an enchanting, exciting time to visit Iceland. We hope to see you here soon…

Start planning your   winter itinerary in Iceland !

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Visiting Iceland in February: Pros, Cons, and Tips for 2023

If you’re planning a trip to Iceland in February, you’re in for a unique experience. This is a great time to visit if you’re looking to experience winter activities like ice caving and Northern Lights viewing. However, there are also some challenges that come with traveling to Iceland during this month.

In this guide, we’ll break down the pros and cons of visiting Iceland in February and provide you with some helpful tips to make the most of your trip.

About Iceland in the Winter

Iceland in february: pros, iceland in february: cons, events in iceland in february, visiting in january instead, visiting in march instead, our final thoughts.

Iceland is a land of contrasts, known for its dramatic landscapes, otherworldly natural phenomena, and unique culture. Winter in Iceland brings shorter days, colder temperatures, and the possibility of snow and ice.

While visiting Iceland in the winter may not be for everyone, it can be a magical experience for those willing to brave the elements. In this guide, we’ll explore what to expect during the winter months of December, January, and February in Iceland, as well as some tips to make the most of your trip.

One of the main reasons to visit Iceland in the winter is to witness the stunning Northern Lights, which are most visible from September to April. December, January, and February offer some of the longest nights of the year, making them prime time to try and catch this natural phenomenon.

However, the weather in Iceland in the winter can be unpredictable and challenging, with snowstorms and icy conditions potentially disrupting travel plans. Despite these challenges, winter in Iceland also brings the possibility of unique experiences such as soaking in hot springs under a blanket of snow, exploring ice caves, and seeing frozen waterfalls.

With proper planning and preparation, Iceland in the winter can be a rewarding and unforgettable adventure.

For a deeper dive into the best time to visit Iceland, please see our comprehensive guide to the best time to visit Iceland .

Pros and Cons of Iceland in February

As with any month of the year, there are going to be advantages and potential disadvantages to exploring Iceland in February. Keep in mind, every month is wildly different for Icelandic adventures. February is no exception. Below are some of the pros and potential cons of Iceland in February.

February is a great time to catch the Northern Lights, as the darkness and clear skies make for optimal viewing conditions. Additionally, the snow-covered landscape creates a magical atmosphere and picturesque scenery that is unlike any other time of year.

The popular Golden Circle tour is less crowded in February, allowing visitors to take their time and fully enjoy the sights, such as the famous Geysir and Gullfoss waterfall.

Another great reason to visit Iceland in February is the outdoor activities. Many of the country’s top activities, such as glacier hiking and ice cave exploration, are best done during the winter months.

Additionally, February is the start of the seal-watching season, where visitors can see the adorable creatures basking on the shores. Finally, Iceland’s famous hot springs, such as the Blue Lagoon, are particularly inviting in the winter, providing a cozy respite from the chilly outdoor temperatures.

February is still a winter month in Iceland, and as such, the conditions can be harsh. The weather can be unpredictable, with snowstorms and blizzards possible. This can lead to road closures and flight cancellations, making travel difficult. The limited daylight hours can also make it challenging to see all the sights you may want to, particularly if you are on a tight schedule.

Additionally, many of Iceland’s popular tourist destinations may be closed or inaccessible during the winter months, particularly those in more remote areas. This can limit your options for activities and sightseeing. The cold temperatures and icy conditions can also make outdoor activities less enjoyable, and you may need to invest in specialized gear to stay warm and dry.

Finally, the Northern Lights, one of the biggest draws for winter visitors, are not guaranteed. Even on a clear night, viewing conditions may not be optimal, and it can be disappointing to travel all the way to Iceland and not see them.

There are plenty of events taking place throughout Iceland in the month of February. Here are just a few of the events in Iceland in February:

• Winter Lights Festival – This festival takes place in Reykjavik and is a celebration of the winter season, with various light installations and cultural events taking place throughout the city.
• Reykjavik International Film Festival – This film festival brings together international filmmakers to showcase their work in Iceland’s capital city.
• The Winter Jazz Festival – This annual jazz festival takes place in Reykjavik and features local and international jazz musicians performing in various venues around the city.
• Thorrablot – This traditional Icelandic festival is celebrated in February and features local food, music, and dancing.
• Winter Games – Held in Akureyri, the Winter Games are a multi-sport event that includes skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.
• Skaftafell Ice Climbing Festival – For adventurous travelers, this festival offers the opportunity to try ice climbing on the glaciers in Skaftafell National Park.

Tips for Visiting Iceland in February

If you are planning to visit Iceland in February, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Firstly, be prepared for cold temperatures and unpredictable weather. It’s essential to pack warm clothing, including a waterproof jacket, gloves, and a hat. The daylight hours are still limited, so it’s crucial to plan your activities accordingly and make the most of the daylight.

February is a popular month for winter sports, such as skiing and snowboarding. If you plan to engage in these activities, make sure to book in advance and confirm with the tour company that they are still operating. The Northern Lights are also still visible in February, so consider going on a tour to see this stunning natural phenomenon.

Driving conditions in Iceland in February can be challenging due to snow and ice on the roads. It’s recommended to rent a 4×4 vehicle and to check road conditions before embarking on a journey. Lastly, be aware of the limited availability of accommodation and tours during this time, so book well in advance to avoid disappointment.

By following these tips and planning accordingly, you can make the most of your trip to Iceland in February and enjoy all the unique experiences this winter wonderland has to offer.

As always, if you’re looking to get up-to-date information on the unpredictable weather in Iceland, there is one primary source. That source is Vedur.is .

While February is a popular time to visit Iceland, some travelers may find that January is a better option. One reason is that the Northern Lights, a popular attraction in Iceland, can be seen more frequently in January due to longer nights.

Additionally, January can be less crowded than February, which means better chances of getting a good deal on accommodations and activities. The weather may be slightly colder in January, but with proper clothing and planning, visitors can still enjoy all that Iceland has to offer.

For a deeper dive, please see our full article on Iceland in January .

For those who prefer slightly milder temperatures and longer daylight hours, March may be a better month to visit Iceland than February. While February is still considered a winter month, March marks the beginning of spring and the gradual transition to longer, brighter days.

Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and sightseeing without worrying too much about the cold weather. Additionally, some of Iceland’s popular attractions, such as the ice caves, may still be accessible in March before they close due to warmer temperatures.

For a deeper dive, please see our full article on Iceland in March .

Overall, visiting Iceland in February can be a wonderful experience, but it’s important to be prepared for the weather and the crowds. With proper planning and clothing, travelers can still enjoy all the activities and attractions that Iceland has to offer during this month.

However, it’s worth considering other months such as January or March depending on personal preferences and interests. No matter which month you choose to visit, Iceland’s unique landscapes, culture, and natural wonders make it a destination worth exploring.

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Tiny Footsteps Travel

Iceland in February: A Guide (2024)

Heading to Iceland in February? You’re in the right place.

If you don’t mind the chilly weather, then February is a great time to visit Iceland. The landscapes are gorgeous in February and a treat for photographers and nature-lovers. Its also not as cold as you think, and you have a pretty good chance of seeing the Northern Lights.

There are some important things to keep in mind about travelling to Iceland in February; one of them being that the weather can be unpredictable at this time of year. If you’re renting a car, take caution when driving in icy conditions.

While visiting Iceland in February, I was able to experience the majestic waterfalls, downtown Reykjavik and other attractions without too many crowds, and the coolest of all – see the Northern Lights.

Whether you’re in Iceland with kids , on your own or on a couples getaway, there’s plenty of things to do and ways to enjoy Iceland during the month of February.

So let’s jump in – Iceland in February!

Weather in Iceland in February

I’ll be chilly in February in Iceland, but it may not be as cold as you think it will be. The average high is in February about 3°C (37.4°F) and the low is -2°C (28.4°F).

So although its cold, its not usually an extreme cold – (not as much as Iceland’s name would imply anyway.) Its warmer in Iceland in February than it is in other Northern Hemisphere locations, largely because of the Gulf Stream which decreases the cold air from the ocean.

There might be some snow on the ground in Iceland in February, but sometimes there’s no snow at all. December and January are the highest months for snowfall in Iceland, and February can receive some snow, but usually may only be a thin blanket.

When we were in Iceland in February, there was just a thin layer on the ground, but sometimes there was no snow – like in the photo above.

What you Need to Know about Iceland in February

• Throughout the month of February, the sun in Iceland rises sometime between 8:40 and 10am , and sets sometime between 5:14 and 6:42pm .
• The weather in February can be unpredictable ; sometimes there could be icy conditions, or a snowstorm. Depending on what kinds of activities you’re planning, you should prepare for cold and snowy weather just in case
• If you’re renting a car, then it will already have winter tires, but its a good idea to request studded tires if they’re not already included with your rental. Also, a 4-wheel drive is best for this time of year.
• Seeing the Northern Lights is based on how cloudy it is – February is an optimal time of year to see the Northern Lights, but seeing them is never guaranteed

What to Wear in Iceland in February

A lot of Iceland’s attractions and things to see are based around the outdoors. In order to enjoy it to its fullest, be prepared for the chilly weather, by bringing the following:

• A warm coat
• Hat, mitts and scarf
• Warm gloves
• Waterproof footwear. Hiking boots , if they’re waterproof are suitable, even if you’re not doing hiking perse; the ground is still icy and wet and extra traction is worth it. I’d recommend this pair f or men, or this one for women
• Neck-warmers like these ones that help shield your face from the cold winds
• Long-sleeved shirts, or a hoodie
• A swimsuit (in case you want to warm up by soaking in a geothermal bath!)

Pro Tip: It’s a good idea to wear layers during Iceland in February so that you can always remove clothing if you’re warmer than you thought you’d be, or add clothing if you’re cold.

What to Do in Iceland in February

Here are the best things to do in Iceland during the month of February

1. See the Northern Lights

Winter is the best time to catch the Northern Lights in Iceland; anytime between September to April. In fact, October through March is the most optimal, so February is a pretty good time for seeing them.

However, its important to mention that seeing the Northern Lights depends on two things – which days they come, and secondly, how cloudy it is. If its cloudy, then it will be hard to see them.

The Northern Lights tend to visit in cycles, sometimes lasting for a few nights at a time before disappearing for 4-5 days and then returning. For this reason, to have the best chance to see the Northern Lights, then its best to spend at least a week in Iceland. (And even then, keep in mind that it isn’t guaranteed.)

We were very lucky to see the Northern Lights on our trip to February in Iceland. Personally, I believe at least a week is needed to see and experience the other attractions anyway. So, that week will not be wasted.

To increase your chances of seeing the Northern Lights, consider joining an Iceland Northern Lights tour that includes a guide, transportation to an area with low light pollution, and hot chocolate.

Book your Northern Lights Tour from Reykjavik here

2. Visit waterfalls

Iceland is full of waterfalls – over 10,000 of them. They don’t have an exact count of waterfalls, because there are simply too many of them to count!

In February, some of Iceland’s waterfalls are partially frozen, but some are flowing as usual. Needless to say, you’ll be spoiled with waterfalls in Iceland. Some of them are located close to the road or parking lot and are fairly easy to get to. Others require a bit of trekking.

Gulfoss waterfall in the Golden Circle is known for being mostly frozen in the wintertime (which is cool to see.) Seljandfoss and Skogafoss (pictured above) are two other of the most popular waterfalls in Iceland, both standing 195 feet tall , and are completely free of charge.

One thing I love about Skogafoss is that you can view it from the bottom, as well as walk a trial to get a view of it from above. The Seljandfoss waterfall has a trail that allows you to walk behind the waterfall.

If you’re driving in Iceland, you can see these waterfalls on a road trip of the Ring road 1. Check out my post on the 21 best waterfalls in Iceland , to see other waterfalls to add to your itinerary.

If you’re not renting a car – then there is a tour you can take that will show you both waterfalls, as well as other interesting things along the South Iceland coastline.

Book your South Iceland tour of Skogafoss and Seljandfoss here

3. Spend a couple days in Reykjavik

Reykjavik is the largest city in Iceland, of about 140,000 people. It makes for a good home base while exploring Iceland (you can stay in one place and just to tours) or you can use it as a stop on your itinerary and dedicate a few days to exploring it – which I’d recommend!

I would recommend at least a day or two exploring Reykjavik, depending on how many of the things you’re interested in seeing. There are some great museums, and a charming Old Town, and even some parks and a walkway along the harbour.

The Old Town of Reykjavik was first settled in the year 874 , by the Vikings so as you can imagine – it has a lot of fascinating history.

In the Old Town, you can find restaurants, cafés, some historical landmarks, and its a good place to shop for Icelandic souvenirs.

Check out Hallgrimskirkja , 244-ft tall Lutheran church – one of the tallest buildings in the country. You can climb to the top and get a view of the city and the surrounding lands.

One of my personal favourite things about Reykjavik is the museums that showcase the cultural and geological history of Iceland. Here are some of the best museums that you might want to check out in Reykjavik:

• Whale Museum – see life size whales and learn about these majestic creatures. 15 minute walk from downtown Reykjavik. Get tickets here.
• Perlan: Wonders of Iceland – highly recommended, and give yourself 2-4 hours to see everything; the Aurora Borealis show, and the man-made ice cave in the lower level. Grab your tickets here
• Viking Exhibition – learn about the Viking settlements in the 800s and how Iceland gradually turned into what it is today. Skip the line tickets available here.

Going to be in Reykjavik as a family? There are lots of things to do in Reykjavik with Kids

4. Soak in a thermal bath

Iceland’s number of active volcanoes means dozens of naturally occurring hot springs heated by the geothermal energy. Soaking in an outdoor natural hot spring is fun anytime of the year, but there’s something about doing it in winter. You can feel the crisp weather while your body is warmed by the heated water.

Most of the geothermal baths are also attached to saunas, and steam rooms. They allow for a great way to warm up and get a break from the cold, as well as feel rejuvenated.

The most famous thermal bath in Iceland is by the Blue Lagoon , close to the Reykjavik international airport (which, contrary to what many believe, is actually man-made – it is not naturally heated as many believe.)

Having said that, we went to the Blue Lagoon and we enjoyed our time – its especially perfect if you time it so that you go right before, or after your flight.

However, there are other thermal baths to visit in Iceland. Here are a couple that are also near Reykjavik:

• Sky Lagoon – just 20 minutes from Reykjavik and newly opened in 2021. Very popular with locals and tourists. It is man-made, but naturally heated. Open 11am on weekdays in the winter, and 10am on weekends and closes at 10pm. Grab your ticket here
• Secret Lagoon – 90 minute drive from Reykjavik. Open from 10am to 7pm in the winter. Also man-made but its naturally heated with local hot springs. 38-40 C year round. Grab your entrance ticket here.

5. Tour the Golden Circle

The Golden Circle is one of the best places to visit in Iceland . Its a sightseeing trail that covers 300 km (186 miles) of rugged, natural and dramatic terrain. Its located in southeast Iceland, just outside of Reykjavik and it includes craters, waterfalls, seaside cliffs, and the famous geysir.

Be sure to check out Gulfoss Waterfall (frozen in the winter) as well as the Geysir , which erupts every 6-10 minutes shooting boiling water 230 ft in the air.

Also along the Golden Circle are breathtaking sights in Thingvellir National Park, which is the only place in the world where you can stand between two continental plates!

It takes about 4 hours to drive around the Golden Circle, but that doesn’t include any breaks or stops. The sights on the Golden Circle can be seen in a day, but you should budget at least 6-7 hours to factor in driving, stops and lunch breaks.

No car? You can also tour the highlights of the Golden Circle on a day trip from Reykjavik.

Book your day tour of the Golden Circle here

6. Explore an Ice Cave

There are more ice caves in Iceland than in any other country (for once, Iceland lives up to its name!)

Ice caves change every year, because they are formed by the melting and changing shape of glaciers. So every year will be unique regardless of which ice cave you visit.

In order go inside an ice cave, you will need to join a tour. Visiting an ice cave can’t be done without a guide because of the expert knowledge and equipment that is needed to do it safely. You will also need to wear crampons on your feet, a helmet, and of course -dress warmly!

Depending on where you’re staying in Iceland, there are various tours offered throughout the country for different Ice Caves.

Here are some of the most popular ice caves in Iceland:

• Vatnajokull Ice Cave – Europe’s largest glacier, located in central Iceland. Book here
• Crystal Ice Cave – near Glacier Lagoon – book here
• Katla Ice Cave , day trip from Reykjavik – book here
• Langjokull Ice Cave , only about 1 hour from Reykjavik. Book your tour online here.

7. Winter Lights Festival

In February, Winter Lights Festival ( Vetrarhátíð in Icelandic) takes place in Rekjavik. you can see beautiful, multicoloured lights, as well as take part in some fun and free activities.

The Winter Lights Festival includes events like Museum Night, Swimming Pool Night (where swimming pools offer free swimming.)

The most exciting aspect of the Winter Nights Festival is the Trail of Lights , which means the streets are decorated with colourful lit up street art. The trail starts from the Hallgrímskirkja down Skólavörðustíg and on to Austurvell, which is decorated with light art.

You can walk the trail between 6:30–10 pm every evening of the Winter Lights Festival.

The Winter Lights Festival is usually held in early February, and the exact dates for 2024 are TBA. More information (although in Icelandic, so you may need a translation app) can be found here.

8. Tour a real lava cave

A lava cave is what it sounds like – a cave formed by flowing lava. Did you know that Iceland has 30 tunnels flowing through lava caves, most of which were formed thousands of years ago?

One of the best  lava tunnels in Iceland is conveniently located right outside Reykjavik , and known as “Raufarhólshellir.” Its one of the longest and most well-known lava tunnels in Iceland, and is open year-round.

Lava caves are only accessible with a guided tour, as you need to wear the correct equipment and know how to move around safely. Tours include the headlamp with the flashlight so you can see where you’re going!

Tours of the Raufarhólshellir lava tunnel are 1-hour long , and you’re given time at the end to explore on your own and take some pictures.

Tip: It will be even colder in the lava tunnel than it is outside, so wear your warmest clothes – I would recommend a hat and scarf, and don’t forget gloves!

Book your lava cave tour outside Reykjavik here

9. Go whale watching

Iceland is considered to be the whale-watching capital of Europe, with 20 different species of whales living in the Atlantic waters off the coastline. There are orcas, humpback whales, sperm whales, and many others.

While the wintertime is not the peak season for whale watching in Iceland, (April through October is, because many of the adult whales swim south to breed during that time) you can still give it your best shot. You’re most likely to see

While the whale-watching capital of Iceland, Husavik, is closed for whale tours in the winter months – you can still go whale watching in Reykjavik.

Like the Northern Lights, there’s no ‘guarantee’ of seeing whales at any time of the year.

Book your whale watching tour from Reykjavik here

10. Do a roadtrip of Ring 1 (Route 1)

Ring Road (also known as Route 1) is the highway that runs along the coast of Southern Iceland, and does almost a circle of the country. If you’re doing any tours to Black Sands Beach or Glacier Lagoon, then you’ll be driving on the Route 1.

The Route 1 is not only straight forward and well maintained, but there are also so many scenic places to stop at. Some people do the full Ring Road (a full circle of Iceland) while others simply do half of it, which includes only south Iceland.

Another option is to drive up north from Reykjavik (western Iceland) -there are a lot of gems to see there too.

The entire Ring Road covers 1,287 km (800 miles.) Driving the whole thing totals up to about 24 hours of driving . Realistically, if you want to do the full circle, then you should give yourself at least a week to do all of it, maybe an extra day or two in winter.

Some people choose to do only half of the Ring Road, driving from Reykjavik to Glacier Lagoon and back, which can be done easily in 2-3 days if you want to stop and see everything along the way.

Bearing potentially unpredictable winter conditions in mind, it would be good to give yourself a day or two extra from these estimates, to account for snowstorms or the possibility of needing to drive slower or cut some drives short due to icy weather.

Tip: While you’re in Iceland, keep up with the weather forecast by checking their site in English here .

11. Spend a day (or two) in Vik

Vik is located along Ring Road 1, about 2 hours and 45 minutes from Reykjavik. Vik is close to glaciers, waterfalls, and is home to the famous Black Sands Beach, so its absolutely worth a stop on your itinerary.

Near Vik, you can do a tour of the Mýrdalsjökull Glacier nearby, and visit the famous columns on the shore of Black Sands Beach.

In addition, Vik is a short drive to three waterfalls: 45 minute drive to Seljandsfoss, and only 30 minutes to Skogafoss and Kvernufoss, which are both beautiful and popular waterfalls.

For this reason, Vik can make a good home base while exploring Southern Iceland, since there’s so much in the area. Read my post for more things to do in and around Vik.

If you want to stay overnight in Vik, Hotel Kría is 10 minutes from the village and offers stunning landscape views.

12. Glacier Lagoon and Breiðamerkursandur (Diamond Beach)

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach are the kind of sights that people come to Iceland for. Both in summer and especially winter, they offer stunning scenery of snow, glacier and ice that most of us are not used to seeing at home.

Conveniently, both Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach are located very close to each other, just across the road. The Diamond Beach gets its ice (the “diamonds”) from Glacier Lagoon. You can walk from the shore of the Glacier Lagoon to the Diamond Beach in only 2 minutes!

Driving from Reykjavik to Glacier Lagoon takes just under 5 hours by car (10 hours round trip) and you need about 2-3 hours there to make the visit worthwhile.

If you’re not driving, consider booking a tour from Reykjavik to this incredible place.

Book your 1-day tour of Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach from Reykjavik here

13. Spend a day in Husavik

Husavik is the oldest settlement in Iceland . It was first settled by a Swedish Viking named Garðar Svavarsson who stayed there for one winter around 870 A.D , and built the first house on Icelands territory.

Today, Husavik is a small town of just over 2,000 people (although that number goes up dramatically in the summer months with all the tourists.)

Located in northeast Iceland, Husavik is just a slight detour if you’re doing the full Ring Road tour of Iceland, or you could drive there from Reykjavik in about 6 hours (give or take with winter driving.)

Husavik is also known as the whaling capital of Iceland, which is the reason why most travel there. Unfortunately, the whale tours don’t run during the wintertime – only spring through autumn.

However, Husavik is still worth a visit, even in winter. For one, the Geosea Thermal Sea Baths are located there, as well as a fantastic Whale Museum, and the Euro Vision Museum . The best way to get around Husavik is on foot; the town is small, but charming and of colourful houses and artwork. One of the most iconic landmarks in Husavik is the wooden church, called Húsavíkurkirkja, built in 1907.

Book your Husavik walking tour here

Iceland in February FAQs

Here are the most commonly asked questions about visiting Iceland in February

How cold is it in Iceland during February?

The average daily low in Iceland throughout February is -2°C (28.4°F.) Generally, it will hover around 0°C (32°F.) So, although its chilly, its not as cold as some other Northern hemisphere countries in the wintertime, such as Canada.

Can you go in the Blue Lagoon in Iceland in February?

You can absolutely visit the Blue Lagoon in Iceland in February. The Blue Lagoon is open year-round and its an enjoyable experience being able to soak in the steamy waters in the crisp air.

Is February or March better to visit Iceland?

There are more daylight hours in March (10 – 13.5 hours of daylight) vs only 7-10 hours of daylight in February. In addition, its also warmer. However, March is a more popular time to visit Iceland because of the spring breakers from North America. So, although its colder in February, you can see the country with much fewer tourists.

Is Iceland expensive in February?

The prices in Iceland will be a little cheaper in February, as its low-season. Everything from hotels, tours and accommodations will have a cheaper rate for the reason that there are much fewer tourists at that time. Its perfect for people who want to enjoy the sights with fewer tourists, and save some money!

Iceland in February Conclusion

By now you have a good idea of things to do in Iceland in February. The pros of visiting Iceland in February include seeing the country with fewer other tourists, seeing the winter terrain, and the possibility to see the Northern Lights.

The scenery in Iceland is absolutely spectacular in the wintertime, so bring your cameras and phones to be ready to take a LOT of pictures.

A final reminder to dress for the weather, and pay attention to the weather conditions, especially if you’re driving anywhere. While Icelandic winters are mild compared to many areas in North America, its best to be prepared.

Visiting Iceland in February – All You Need to Know

• Last Updated: November 28, 2022
• Norbert Zohó

Despite the lingering winter chill and long hours of darkness, February is an exciting month in Iceland. It’s a time when Iceland starts to look forward to longer days and the coming of spring. It’s almost a time of reawakenings and transformations when the country starts to spring back into life after the cold dark winter. 

Tourists can enjoy the beautiful snowy scenes and landscapes that resemble winter wonderlands with relatively small crowds. February can be an exciting time to visit the Land of Fire and Ice. 

Although the temperatures are still cold in February, careful packing means that you can have a terrific time discovering the best of Iceland. You can always take a warming dip in the many naturally heated pools and hot tubs, not to mention the plentiful cozy cafes that beckon people inside out of the cold.

This handy guide will take you through everything you need to know for a fantastic time in Iceland in February.  

The Weather in Iceland in February

Driving and road conditions, watching the northern lights, soaking in geothermal pools and hot tubs, snowmobiling on a glacier, glacier hiking, lava caving, snorkeling and diving between continents, exploring the golden circle , visiting the south coast, exploring the snaefellsnes peninsula, whale watching, what to wear in iceland in february, the winter lights festival, rainbow reykjavík, bolludagur , sprengidagur, valentine’s day, women’s day.

Iceland’s weather in February is known for being highly unreliable and unpredictable. You’ll likely experience rain, wind, and snow during a February trip.

Throughout February, the average temperature in Reykjavik is 33.8 F (1 C). February is also one of the wettest months in Iceland, with an average rainfall of 3.3 inches (83 millimeters).

Nights are long and dark, and there are still limited hours of daylight during February. Each day, however, gains an extra nine minutes of light. So, for a week-long trip, you’ll have just over an hour’s extra sunlight on your last day as compared with your first.    

The dark nights are ideal for spotting the amazing Northern Lights. On crisp clear nights, dress up warm and head outside to gaze at the skies. 

The roads in Iceland are generally maintained well, but driving conditions over the winter months can still be dangerous. Ice, snow, heavy rains, and strong winds are among the road hazards, along with long hours of darkness that make it more difficult to see when driving. 

Four-wheel-drive vehicles are highly recommended for winter driving in Iceland. Further, it’s important that visitors only rent a car if they already have experience of driving in difficult conditions along countryside roads. 

While you can’t get cars with chains on the wheels, rental cars will come with winter tires. Many rental companies also offer studded tires, which provide better traction and grip on the roads. 

February is a quiet month in terms of tourism. This is great if you want to explore major sites in relative peace and quiet. It does mean, however, that if you have an accident or experience car problems in the countryside that you will likely have a substantial wait until somebody spots you. You could potentially end up stranded in rural areas for hours, or even days. It’s important, therefore, to make sure you always carry adequate supplies in your vehicle, such as drinking water, food, blankets, and a mobile phone with a full charge.

You might also wish to register your travel plans so that you can be found with relative ease in the case of something happening. 

Always check the road and weather conditions before setting out on any journey and, if necessary, be prepared to adapt your route or postpone your plans. Check each morning, even if staying in the same area; some places can experience changes pretty quickly overnight, for example, avalanches.      

Watch where you park; if you get stuck in snow most tow companies charge a substantial fee to pull you out. And, these costs typically are not covered by insurance policies. 

Never attempt to drive along a closed stretch of road, don’t cross cordons, and never take your vehicle off-road. While dangerous in the summer months, not to mention illegal with the possibility of hefty fines, doing so in the winter is incredibly dangerous. It may even lead to fatalities. 

Many roads through the Highlands and Westfjords are closed over the winter months. Roads that are classed as “F-roads” are only open over the summer, when conditions make them safer for drivers. 

Best Things to See and Do in Iceland in February

As long as you’re prepared for the cold, you’ll find plenty of awesome things to do and see in Iceland in February. Furthermore, some activities are only possible in the wintertime, meaning this could be your last opportunity to enjoy things like ice caving before the spring thaw. Winter is also the best time to spot the incredible Northern Lights. Some activities, such as snorkeling in Silfra and bathing in natural hot springs, are made all the more amazing in the ice and snow. 

While many inner parts of Iceland and the rugged Westfjords are not accessible over winter, there are still numerous hot spots open to visitors. It is also possible to still complete a full loop around the Ring Road, both as part of a tour group or on your own in a rental car. 

The wealth of stunning natural sites that beckon February visitors definitely won’t disappoint. Here are some top recommendations to add to your list for a February trip to Iceland:  

Between September and April, approximately, there’s a good chance of seeing the awe-inspiring Northern Lights dancing across the dark skies. On a clear February night, therefore, you may be lucky and witness one of Mother Nature’s most spectacular performances. 

It’s important to keep in mind that nature is unpredictable; you might not always spot the lights, even when all of the conditions seem to be strongly in your favor. Try and plan for at least a few nights to hunt for the lights to increase your chances of success. And definitely don’t blame your guide (if using one) if the lights don’t materialize–they cannot control nature!  

There are two ways that you can go out looking for the Aurora Borealis: independently and with a guide. 

If you have a rental vehicle and enjoy exploring on your own timescale, track the lights’ visibility and strength and drive out into the country to watch the skies. Make sure there are no natural features, such as mountains, that could obscure your views.

As part of a guided tour, you’ll be taken to places where there’s a high chance of spotting this natural phenomenon. Guides check the forecasts in advance, meaning all the work is done for you. If you don’t spot the lights, many companies offer a second night’s attempt for free. Also, guides don’t want to waste their time on a fruitless mission, so tours generally only head out when there’s a decent chance of seeing the lights. 

Iceland’s awesome hot pools and hot tubs are inviting all throughout the year, but the chilly February conditions make them that much more appealing. Plus, there’s something really special about slipping into deliciously warm waters while gazing upon surrounding snowy and icy landscapes. 

You’ll find a public swimming pool complex in each town around Iceland, almost all of which have a hot tub as well as an outdoor heated pool. Larger complexes, particularly those in the capital, may have several hot tubs at varying temperatures to choose between. 

There are also hot pots around the country, heated by natural geothermal energy. Most are in spectacular natural surroundings and some are fairly remote. Many are free to enjoy.  

Alternatively, there are a number of larger lagoons around Iceland, most of which are set up for tourist visits. The Blue Lagoon just outside Reykjavik is perhaps the most famous, with bathing and a spa in lunar-like surroundings. In the north, Myvatn Nature Baths offer a similar experience, while elsewhere around the nation you can take a dip in Kopavogur’s Sky Lagoon Spa and the somewhat hidden Secret Lagoon. Although you’ll need to pay to experience the lagoons, the facilities and experience make the cost more than worth it for a once-in-a-lifetime unique activity.

With an abundance of glaciers, it’s little surprise that Iceland also boasts some marvelous ice caves. Formed in the summer, when melting ice causes glacial rivers that carve through the interior of the glaciers, it’s possible to enter the caves in the winter months. This is when the caves are frozen solid enough to pose fewer risks. The structure is also more stable. 

Dazzling hues of icy blue surround you as you walk inside an actual glacier to explore natural ice caves. It’s definitely among the most unique experiences available during a winter visit to Iceland.  

Iceland’s ice cave season typically runs from November to March, making February a great time to enjoy the natural wintry splendor. One ice cave is open all year round, conditions permitting. Located near Katla Volcano, this particular ice cave doesn’t boast the same vibrant blue shades as others, but it’s still very impressive.

For safety reasons, it’s only possible to enjoy an ice cave as part of an organized tour and with an official guide. Some tours also include other majestic natural sites, such as Skaftafell Nature Reserve and the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon.   

As you would probably imagine, winter activities, such as snowmobiling, are heaps of fun in February. The excitement of whizzing through the gorgeous natural surroundings on a high-speed vehicle is unbeatable. 

There are several amazing ice caps to explore by snowmobile and, even better, you get to marvel at natural beauty without needing any physical exertion. Simply turn the accelerator and soar across an ice cap.  

The most popular destinations for snowmobiling in Iceland are the ice caps of Vatnajökull, Mýrdalsjökull, and Langjökull. Snowmobiling tours to the latter often include sightseeing at popular attractions around the Golden Circle too. 

It’s possible to hike on an Icelandic glacier at all times of the year, but February offers an especially breath-taking adventure. Ice covers the glaciers, shimmering and sparkling in the sunlight. That’s not all, though; the ice is electric blue in color! Ice caves stretch through some of the glaciers too, adding to the wonder.

There are two main glaciers where you can enjoy hiking in February–Solheimajokull Glacier and Svinafellsjokull Glacier–both of which are located in the south of the country. Hike with an experienced local guide and discover lots of interesting facts about Iceland’s fascinating geology too.    

Lava caving is another cool year-round activity that takes on more special appeal in February. Over the winter the unusual caves are filled with striking icicles and natural ice formations.  

Throughout the year, water slowly drips through the porous lava rocks. When the temperatures drop over the winter, this water freezes, creating magical mini stalactites. Similarly, trickles that make it to the ground also freeze, creating enchanting shapes from ice. The glittering effect of the ice certainly makes for amazing photo opportunities.

You’ll be provided with a helmet and crampons for your tour, though you should be confident walking on slippery uneven ground.

Leidarendi lava cave offers the ultimate thrill, with small spaces that you need to scramble through and, after heavy snow, a narrow entrance chute. 

Alternatively, the lava caves at Raufarholshellir and Vidgelmir offer easier February explorations, with wide-open spaces that have clearly defined walkways from where to soak up the sights. You won’t need to climb or crawl, and they are recommended for visitors who want to experience a lava cave but aren’t comfortable walking across ice.     

While water sports in February, in Iceland, may sound ridiculous, drysuits keep you warm and dry enough for a comfortable adventure in the water. 

Located in the famous Thingvellir National Park, snorkeling and diving adventures take place at the Silfra gap, a naturally formed chasm that rips down between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates. 

Accessible all year round, Silfra is often named as one of the top ten places across the world for diving. Sparkling clear spring water fills the rift, and visibility stretches for more than 100 meters (330 feet). Observe awesome underwater geology and gain A+ bragging rights by swimming between two tectonic plates, in the winter nonetheless. 

During February, the surrounding terrain is blanketed in snow and ice, enhancing an already amazing experience. 

Note: Snorkelling is possible for anyone, physical conditions allowing, but people can only dive at Silfra if they are qualified drysuit divers or have completed ten official drysuit dives in the preceding 24 months.  

The Golden Circle is the most visited and most popular tourist route in Iceland. There are three major places of interest, namely the crashing Gulfoss Waterfall, the spectacular Geysir Geothermal Area, and the UNESCO-listed Thingvellir National Park. These places are famous for good reason! Each offers a world of wonder and raw natural beauty. 

No matter what time of year you visit Iceland, the Golden Circle should be on your bucket list.

In February, the rugged rocks around Gullfoss Waterfall are covered with frosty shards that glint next to the cascading water. Keep your fingers crossed for a rainbow to make your visit even more magical. 

In contrast, you’ll find little snow and ice at Geysir Geothermal Area; the underground heat prevents the ground from freezing. Stroll across the multi-colored earth, making sure to stick to marked paths, and watch billows of steam and bubbling pools. The area’s most amazing spectacle, however, is Strokkur, a reliable geyser that erupts every few minutes. Hot water spurts high into the air–get your camera ready! According to local legends, the geyser has been erupting for more than 10,000 years, so it’s definitely a strong feature of Icelandic history.  

As the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Iceland, Thingvellir National Park holds much significance for locals and tourists alike. It’s not only important in terms of nature, geography, and geology, but also in terms of culture, history, and heritage. Visit the spot where Iceland gained independence from Denmark back in 1944 and see where the early Icelandic parliament met in times long gone by. The national park is beautiful at all times of year but is especially stunning when covered in a fluffy layer of snow. You will also notice that several features, including Oxarafoss Waterfall, are partly frozen too.   

The South Coast is, after the Golden Circle route, one of the most-visited places in Iceland, thanks to its rich diversity of landscapes and natural attractions. Popular places are accessible all year round, including in February.

Explore the wonder-filled Skaftafell Nature Reserve and marvel at Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. Feast your eyes on the waterfalls of Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss and admire the dazzling glaciers of Solheimajokull and Vatnajokull. The area is home to the well-known volcano of Eyjafjallajokull, which famously brought European air travel to a standstill in 2010, as well as other mighty volcanoes, such as Katla and Hekla. A wrecked U.S. naval plane lies abandoned at Solheimasandur and the black sandy shores of Reynisfjara Beach take on an ethereal beauty in the winter. 

Do take extra care when visiting the wild Reynisfjara Beach. The powerful waves can appear without warning and carry people out to sea, sometimes fatally. Always pay attention to warning signs and keep a safe distance away from the sea. 

Often referred to as “Iceland in Miniature”, the stunning Snaefellsnes Peninsula is home to awe-inspiring natural attractions and diverse landscapes. Running for approximately 56 miles (90 kilometers) along the coast, the peninsula certainly packs a punch when it comes to exciting things to see and do

Snaefellsjokull National Park featured in the famous 1870s novel “Journey to the Centre of the Earth”, by French writer Jules Verne. Boasting a glacier and volcano, the park is a prime spot for photography and hiking. See the stone towers of Lóndrangar, which featured in “Game of Thrones”, admire the usual Budirkirkja Church, and, conditions permitting, climb the windy path around Saxhóll Crater.

Fans of “Game of Thrones” shouldn’t miss seeing the unusual arrow-shaped Mount Kirkjufell, just a short drive from the village of Grundarfjordur. Animal lovers are sure to be delighted at Ytri Tunga, home to a colony of seals. Other top spots around the peninsula include Djupalonssandur Beach, Budahraun lava fields, Okelda Mineral Spring, and quaint fishing villages such as Hellnar, Stykkisholmur, and Arnarstapi.      

Available from Reykjavik all throughout the year, joining a whale-watching trip in February offers the chance to glimpse majestic aquatic life in its natural habitat. The waters around the island are home to more than 20 species of marine mammals, with many creatures remaining in Icelandic waters during the winter months. 

Keep your eyes peeled for orcas, beaked whales, and pilot whales, as well as the commonly spotted playful white-beaked dolphins. You may also spot minke whales; some remain behind and don’t migrate, and migrants return in February. Harbor porpoises are resident year-round, though they can be rather elusive and difficult to spot.   

As you would expect, when traveling to Iceland in February, you should take plenty of warm clothes with you. Plan your packing list accordingly!

Be sure to pack extra warm clothing if you plan to do outdoor activities, such as ice carving, hiking, or hunting for the Aurora Borealis. Crampons can come in very handy when walking through ice caves or along icy paths and streets. 

It’s somewhat easier to pack for a city break, as you can always pop into cafes, shops, and restaurants to escape the chill outside.  

This is what we recommend packing for your January trip in Iceland:

• Warm winter pants
• Warm winter jacket
• Warm sweater (though you can always purchase one locally too)
• Waterproof hiking footwear
• Bathing suit and towel
• Camera 

Events and Festivities in Iceland in February

The Winter Lights Festival is a fun February festivity in Reykjavik, lasting for three days and loved by locals and visitors alike. It’s a time for people to revel in the pleasures of winter as well as celebrate the coming of longer days. Many buildings around the capital are illuminated, including Harpa Concert Hall and the attractive Hallgrímskirkja Church, and you can follow the Winter Lights Walking Path for bursts of sparkling color and enchanting light displays. There are plenty of cultural events to enjoy too, such as Museum Night and Pool Night.    

Although the main pride celebrations in Reykjavik are held in August, there’s also a smaller pride event near the start of the year. Rainbow Reykjavik falls in either February or March and offers a more intimate and low-key way to celebrate and stand in solidarity with members of the LGBT community.  In countryside areas, people enjoy the Northern Lights and wintry landscapes, while in the capital, events like the Pink Masquerade Ball and the welcome party are lively, vibrant and heaps of fun. 

Falling six weeks before Easter, Bolludagur is the country’s “bun day”. People dine on an array of round foods, such as meatballs, fish balls, and, of course, buns. Filled with lashings of cream, buns are available in many restaurants, cafes, and bakeries, with a huge variety of colors, sizes, and flavors. 

Sprengidagur is the day following Bolludagur. Traditionally a day of feasting before the fasting season of Lent, it is rather like the local equivalent of Mardi Gras or Shrove Tuesday. Today, people sink their teeth into an abundance of rich foods, though you can still enjoy a hearty bowl of the traditional lentil soup, complete with vegetables and salted meat.  

Celebrated 40 days before Easter, Öskudagur is the day after Sprengidagur. Iceland’s equivalent of Ash Wednesday, it shares some similarities with Halloween, inasmuch as kids don costumes and receive candy when they sing songs for people. Unlike Halloween, however, costumes, while inventive and wacky, don’t have a ghoulish theme.  

Unlike in many other countries, Valentine’s Day is not typically celebrated in Iceland. It is, nonetheless, becoming more and more commercially popular, with several upmarket hotels and restaurants offering special romantic packages for around the 14th of February. 

Women’s Day is an important event in Iceland. Celebrated on February 24th, it coincides with the first day of the month of Goa according to the traditional Norse calendar. It’s a day when men spoil their special women, with things like fancy meals out and gifts of flowers or chocolates. Don’t worry–there’s a Men’s Day too, although by February you’ll already have missed it by about a month. 

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A Guide to Iceland in February: Thrilling Adventures, Travel Tips, and Winter Magic

If you’ve ever watched Game of Thrones and dreamed of experiencing the beauty of the north – without the threat of White Walkers, then an epic adventure to Iceland in February may be just what the doctor ordered! 

While most travelers flock to this beautiful country in the warmer months, February in Iceland offers its own unique and magical experiences. 

If you want all the details on what to pack, sightseeing availability, festivals, and more, keep reading.

Jon Snow may know nothing, but you’ll know everything you need in order to plan an epic trip to Iceland in February! 😉

Table of Contents

Is February a Good Time to Visit Iceland?

Daylight hours in iceland in february , iceland in february: northern lights, temperatures in iceland in february, what to wear in iceland in february, sightseeing availability, driving in iceland in february, february festivals + events, things to do in iceland in february.

Many people may question whether it’s worth visiting in the winter months. But what I love about Iceland, is that every month has its own unique charm.  February is no exception. Let’s see why…

Off-peak season : We’re still in low season and if you’re visiting in February, you’ll reap the benefits of it. These include cheaper flights and accommodation, and fewer people – even at the more “ touristy” attractions. It’s always fun to get front-row seats!

Northern Lights: The nights are still pretty long, which makes February a good month to catch this natural spectacle. 

More daylight hours: The good news is that, unlike December and January, daylight hours are starting to increase this month. You can experience the best of both worlds. Enjoy a winter wonderland and have more daylight hours to explore. WIN-WIN! 

Winter Activities :  There are so many activities to do and sights to explore in February. In fact, some tours are only available in the winter months. 

Before you plan your itinerary, it’s crucial to know how many daylight hours you have during the month you’re visiting.

This allows you to make the most of your sightseeing opportunities so that you don’t miss a thing.

The daylight hours in Iceland in February start to return to a more normal level during this month, especially as you get closer to March. 

The month starts with about 7 hours of daylight and by the end of February, it’s up to 10 hours.

More daylight hours means more time to explore outdoors, but with the added bonus that you’re still able to experience the beautiful golden hours at sunrise and sunset. 

So, don’t forget your camera!

Let me just say, if you’re visiting Iceland you need to make seeing the aurora a priority.

It’s one of my absolute favorite experiences and I’m happy to announce that the Northern Lights are still here in Iceland in February!

To see them, you need dark and mostly clear skies. While February can definitely throw you the odd storm or two, making aurora viewing tricky, you still have a good chance!

There are various Northern Lights Tours on offer if you want it planned out for you.

However, if you want to hunt them on your own, then check out the Aurora forecast for the best conditions to see them.

➡️ READ MORE: How To See The Northern Lights In Iceland: Best Viewing Spots, When To Go And MORE

Iceland’s Weather in February

The weather in Iceland in February is still cold, as you’d imagine.

It’s also a notoriously stormy month, so brace yourself for wild winds and snow storms that can catch you off guard.

If you’re curious about what to expect, check out my Winter Weather in Iceland post for more information.

How cold is Iceland in February? Well, the average temperatures in Iceland in February range anywhere from -2 to 4° C (28-39°F). But remember, with the wind, it can oftentimes feel much colder. 

You’ll want to pack with wind chill in mind and be ready for the unexpected. 

The weather in Iceland can change in the blink of an eye and the last thing you want is to worry about not having the correct gear and clothing to fully experience the spectacular sights.

My advice? Dress in thermal layers that are not only water but also windproof so that you’re comfortable while you’re out exploring. 

Here are some ideas on what you need to pack to rock the look I like to call Viking chic! 😉

Outerwear : Remember those strong winds? Your jacket needs to be wind and waterproof.

Let’s not forget the essentials – gloves, a hat and a scarf. 

Layers : Thermal layers are your best friend here. From leggings to woolen socks and layered long-sleeved tops that you can remove if you need to. 

If you don’t already have a good sweater that can withstand this climate,  consider investing in a traditional Icelandic sweater or Lopapeysa . 

They’ve got beautiful traditional designs and are SO warm! They’re naturally anti-bacterial and water-resistant. Plus, they make for an incredibly special souvenir. Read more about it here: ➡️ Icelandic Lopapeysa: Your Guide to Buying Authentic Icelandic Wool Sweaters

Footwear: I’m guessing that if you’re planning a trip to Iceland, then you’re likely here for the stunning natural beauty. Hiking is definitely on the cards, and you’ll need to be prepared with hiking boots that are waterproof and comfortable. These ones are a great option!

Pro Tip: If it’s winter in Iceland, you can be sure that everything will be slippery and covered in ice. 

You cannot leave home without crampons or Yaktrax in your suitcase. 

They’re an item that goes around the bottom of your boots and provides extra grip and protection on icy surfaces. 

You’ll need them whether you’re walking to the tourist attractions in Reykjavík or hiking around the waterfalls.

I promise it’ll be the best investment you’ll make for your trip. 

Other: Think about what activities you’ll be doing and be sure to bring any special gear needed. Remember that a lot of the hot springs are accessible in winter, so don’t forget your swimsuit and quick dry towel.  

With so many outdoor attractions to enjoy, don’t let your clothes hold you back from making the most of your trip. 

If you’re unsure what to take to Iceland in February, be sure to check out my post all about Iceland winter packing.

And I’ve got a FREE Iceland Packing Guide that comes with a downloadable checklist that you can download here:👇

Thankfully there are a lot of areas that are still accessible. But let’s take a look at what you can expect in February.

Reykjavík, the Golden Circle, and South Iceland : The Golden Circle is the most famous scenic route here, and because of that, the roads are well maintained and cleared of snow.  Reykjavík and South Iceland are also easily accessible.

East and North Iceland and Snæfellsnes Peninsula: When it comes to winter travel, there are incredible spots like East and North Iceland and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula that you’ll no doubt want to visit. Even though you can reach these areas in February, please be extremely careful. 

The roads may not be as maintained and it can be dangerous if you’re not comfortable driving on these kinds of roads – safety first.

Highlands, Westfjörds, and interior: Areas that are not accessible include the highlands, therefore, Landmannalaugar, þórsmörk, and any of the more interior areas. 

The Westfjörds are challenging because a lot of the areas are connected by mountain passes and sometimes the roads are completely closed. 

I don’t recommend adding these to your itinerary unless you are very experienced with winter driving and road conditions.

Okay, let’s dive into driving in Iceland in February.

I once tackled the Snæfellsnes Peninsula solo in a two-wheel drive. I’ve driven plenty of Icelandic winter roads before, so I thought, “No big deal, right?” 

But, oh boy, was I wrong!

It turned out to be a terrifying experience. The roads were like an ice rink, and the wind had my car slipping and sliding on the thick layer of ice.

It was, hands down, the scariest driving experience of my life! 

Winter driving in Iceland requires a Viking spirit and nerves of steel.

Pro tip: Always rent a four-wheel drive in February, and never venture out before checking Road.is . There, you’ll find updates on road conditions and closures, so there’ll be fewer unexpected surprises!

And if you’re up for the challenge, be sure to snag a discount with my all-time favorite car rental company in Iceland.

Despite the winter chill, you’ll find locals and visitors coming together to celebrate the unique events and festivals in February. 

Winter Lights Festival : The first thing that happens at the beginning of February is called the Winter Lights Festival. 

Because the winter days are long and dark, Reykjavík puts on a big, beautiful festival over multiple days where they have lights all over the city. It’s a celebration of art, history, culture, industry and more.

Different areas around Reykjavík as well as Harpa, the concert house, are lit up. Even Hallgrímskirkja, the largest church in Iceland, has a light show on it.

So, if you’re looking for something fun to do that’s also FREE, check out the Winter Lights Festival website for more information.

February 12th : There’s an Icelandic holiday in February known as Cream Puff Day! I kid you not! If you walk into any workplace, there will be multiple boxes of cream puffs laid out.  They have different toppings, fillings, and flavors. Be sure to visit one of the bakeries on that day because you’ll find an incredible selection of cream puffs.

February 13 : This is Sprengidagur which translates to “bursting day.” It’s a day dedicated to consuming salted meat and peas.    

Traditionally, it aligns with the Christian Lent calendar, marking the last opportunity people have to indulge themselves before fasting begins.

February 14:  Öskudagur (ashes day) marks the beginning of Lent and Ash Wednesday. On this day, children dress up and go from house to house, singing songs in exchange for treats. 

It’s quite similar to American Halloween, so you’ll see a lot of children walking around wearing costumes.

Interestingly, Icelanders don’t really celebrate Valentine’s Day. While each year I see some Valentine’s Day influence creeping in, it’s not a major event here. 

Many attractions are only available to see in winter, so whether you choose to take a tour or explore on your own. Here are a few things to do in Iceland in February.

Lava caves/tunnels: Explore lava tunnels such as the Lava Tunnel Raufarhólshellir cave . This tunnel is one of the largest in Iceland, and scenes from the movie Noah were shot here.

Waterfalls: With an estimated 10,000 waterfalls in Iceland, you don’t want to leave without experiencing these beauties. Waterfalls such as Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, and Goðafoss are still accessible in the winter months.

Snowmobiling: If snowmobiling on a glacier sounds like your cup of tea, then consider doing it on Langjökull, Iceland’s second-largest glacier.

Ice caves: Due to the cold weather, it’s still safe to explore the stunning ice caves. If you want to experience glaciers, waterfalls, and lagoons all in one tour Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon and Diamond Beach Tour would be a good option. Psst…You may recognize the lagoon from movies like Batman Begins and James Bond.

Geothermal pools : Don’t let the fact that it’s winter stop you. Most pools and hot springs are open year-round, so if you’ve daydreamed about soaking in a geothermal pool surrounded by snowy landscapes, this is the perfect time. 

Horse riding and snorkeling: Who would have thought that horse riding and snorkeling go so well together?! Even though it’s winter, you can snorkel in the Silfra – one of the best snorkeling sites in the world!

The Reykjavík Food Walk : If you’re ready to experience Icelandic culture through your stomach, The Reykjavík Food Walk is a must-do for any self-proclaimed foodie. Rated as the #1 food and drink activity in Iceland, The Reykjavík Food Walk takes you to 6 restaurants that range from well-known to little family-run restaurants that the locals love. Highly recommended!

As you can see, you have a lot of choices for things to do in Iceland in February.

If you’re tired of sifting through endless articles and guides and want to simplify your travel planning, then you’ll want to check out these 👉 Iceland Guidebooks + Maps

With over 500 pinned locations, the digital maps everything from must-see highlights to hidden gems, and even need-to-knows like pharmacies and playgrounds. I’ve added all of the practical details you actually need, like parking fees, minimum ages for tours and so much more.

Embrace your adventurous spirit, pack your layers, and let’s plan your next adventure to Iceland! Happy Planning,

Pin it for later! 👇🏼

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Iceland in February: A Guide to Visiting Iceland in Winter

February is an ideal month to experience the stunning winter landscape of Iceland. Despite the colder temperatures, the natural beauty of the country is still readily accessible and can make for a memorable visit.

February weather and road conditions in Iceland

Iceland in February brings chilly temperatures, strong winds, and varying precipitation . Average temperatures range from -1°C to 4°C with occasional dips as low as -5°C. Be prepared for unpredictable weather, including snow, rain, and sleet. Layered warm clothing and gear, such as a jacket, gloves, and hat, are essential to combat wind chill.

Driving in Iceland during the winter can be challenging, even for experienced drivers. It is important to be aware of local road regulations and safety precautions, and to rent a sturdy vehicle, ideally with 4×4 capabilities. For a safe and enjoyable self-drive tour, consider focusing on one region, such as South Iceland, and be prepared to check road and weather conditions daily. Be flexible and prepared for potential hazards such as high winds, slippery roads, and poor visibility.

Must-see and must-do activities in Iceland during February

Food and fun festival.

Taste Iceland’s culinary talent at the Food and Fun Festival. Local and international chefs team up with Reykjavík’s top restaurants to offer special menus using fresh Icelandic ingredients. Dine at participating restaurants during the festival for a chance to meet the chefs. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to taste Iceland.

Valentines day

Valentine’s Day is not widely celebrated in Iceland, but many foreign visitors come to experience a romantic holiday under the Northern Lights. Indulge in the country’s geothermal pools, take private tours, or go on food tasting tours to make the most of an idyllic vacation and create unforgettable moments with a loved one

Winter Lights Festival

Brighten up the winter darkness at Reykjavik’s Winter Lights Festival. Enjoy quality light-art installations illuminating iconic buildings and public spaces. Festival also includes extended hours and free admission at participating museums and pools during Museum Night and Pool Night.

Celebrate the tradition of Bun Day or Bolludagur in Iceland during Lent. Enjoy beautifully crafted buns filled with cream, jam, and drizzled with chocolate or caramel in homes, restaurants, and bakeries. Children may wake their parents early with a Bolluvondur wand decorated with colors and receive a cream bun for each successful whack of the wand.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Iceland Travelplanner (@icelandunwrapped)

Sprengidagur

Shrove Tuesday, also known as Sprengidagur or ‘Bursting Day.’ The traditional dish of Saltkjot & baunir, a stew-like dish made of salted lamb meat and peas fills homes and restaurants across the country. The name ‘Sprengidagur’ refers to the idea of feasting on this hearty dish until you are bursting with satisfaction.

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Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park is a must-see destination in Iceland, renowned for its rich history and natural beauty. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site as it was the location of the first Icelandic parliament, established by the Viking era chiefs in the 10th century, making it an important and impressive historical site.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Erson (@excursion.erson)

Iceland is home to numerous scenic waterfalls, and February is an excellent time to visit some of them. Consider visiting Hraunfossar waterfall near Reykholt, which emerges from beneath a lava field. Don’t miss the top waterfalls of the south coast, Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss. The Golden Circle also offers Gullfoss and Faxi, which are must-see waterfalls. Make sure to check out our article where we explore the top 15 best waterfalls in Iceland.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Dominik Kociński (@dominiq.kocinski)

Horseback Riding

The Icelandic horse is a resilient and strong animal that can navigate through the landscapes even in the harsh conditions of February. This is due to its more than 1,000 years of evolutionary isolation. Visitors can see them playing in the snow, socializing, or running around, except during impending blizzards. Horseback riding tours are available year-round and provide an opportunity for visitors to understand the harsh realities of living as an Icelandic warrior and how ancient Icelanders have survived despite the harsh weather conditions. The cold weather not only shaped the horses’ resistance but also their intelligence and curiosity, making them a popular attraction for tourists. Horseback riding on Iceland’s winter landscapes is a great way to see the country and get a deeper understanding of its rich geological and natural heritage.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Ⓣⓦⓘⓝⓢ~Ⓐⓡⓘ /Ⓗⓐⓝⓝⓘ (@princess__horses)

Whale Watching

Whale watching from Reykjavik is a year-round activity, with over 20 different species of cetaceans visiting the surrounding waters of Iceland. Many of these gentle giants can be found in Icelandic waters throughout the winter season. The most commonly seen species are the acrobatic and social white-beaked dolphins, which can be found feeding or playing in the deep waters of Faxafloi Bay. Other year-round residents include the elusive harbor porpoises, as well as Beaked whales, Pilot whales, and Orcas, which can also be seen in February.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Whale Watching Iceland (@whaleswatchingiceland)

Snorkeling in Silfra

Snorkeling in Iceland is not just for extremists, it is accessible to almost anyone thanks to the availability of dry suits. The most popular spot for snorkeling is Silfra, a location between two massive tectonic plates, known as one of the top ten dive sites in the world. Silfa is open all year around and is located in Þingvellir National Park, it offers crystal-clear waters with visibility that exceeds 100 meters. It is an opportunity to experience fascinating geology and the magical blue light that emanates from the scene.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Iceland in February

Is february a good time to visit iceland.

Yes, February is an excellent month to visit Iceland. The winter months offer many benefits, such as the opportunity to see the Northern Lights and participate in winter activities such as horseback riding, snorkeling, and diving. The snow-capped mountains also make for a stunning backdrop in photos. Don’t let the cold weather and snowy conditions discourage you from visiting, they are part of the unique experience of Iceland.

Is the Blue Lagoon open in February?

Yes, the Blue Lagoon is open in February and it’s a popular time to visit this natural spa. The geothermically heated water is rich in silica and minerals, making it a comforting and soothing experience for the body and mind. The warm water and steam will help you to relax and forget about the cold weather outside. Make sure to book your tickets in advance as it can get very busy during the winter months.

Is it worth whale watching in Iceland in February?

February is a good month for whale watching in Iceland, especially for Orca sightings. While December and March are known to be the best months for Orca sightings during the winter, February also offers regular sightings of these magnificent creatures.

Are puffins in Iceland in February?

No, you cannot see puffins in February in Iceland as they are out at sea. Puffins are ocean birds and only come to Iceland during the summer months to breed. The best time to see puffins in Iceland is typically from May to September.

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Iceland in February – Weather, Northern Lights, Things to Do & More

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Learn all about what to expect when traveling in Iceland during February. Road conditions, what to wear/pack, what makes it worth it to visit during that month, some tips on driving in that time, top activities, and events that happen annually during that month. While this month is like January , there are some interesting differences.

Weather in Iceland during February

February can be intense. It’s normal to have severe storms, which mean storm warnings, road closures, snow, rain, and possibly dangerous driving conditions.

While the average temperature range for this month is from -1°C (30°F) and highs of 4°C (39°F), I can attest that we had a decent amount days last month where we had over 5°C and even up to 10°C. We went from extremely icy conditions, and a crazy windstorm that shut down KEF airport to it feeling like summerish temperatures. We are still experiencing those temperatures right now but it looks like we’ll be dipping back to below freezing soon.

Day Light Hours in February in Iceland

This month is amazing because the darkest period is finally over. Even though the beginning of the month means only 7 hours and 6 minutes of daylight, it is a huge jump from the beginning of January, which has only 4 hours and 23 minutes. By mid-February, we have 8 hours and 43 minutes of daylight. At the end of the month, it’s a whopping 10 hours and 2 minutes.

Renting a Car During February in Iceland

Go Car Rental Iceland is a local Icelandic car rental company that has great customer service, a large variety of cars and very competitive prices. Use my code Iceland10 to save 10% off the entire cost of your rental car.

I personally use them for when I go on adventures, and I’m so glad to hear that many of my listeners and subscribers are also having a great experience with them. I mentioned in a previous episode that one of my listeners switched to Go Car Rental Iceland from one of the internationally known rental car companies here and she saved $400! That was for a rental during the summer when prices can sometimes double due to demand.

What to Wear in February

In my opinion, what you wear in Iceland can make or break your trip. No one wants to be cold and wet. I did an episode called “ Iceland Packing List for Winter ”

The name of the winter prep game in Iceland is layers. There is a base layer, which can either be wool or a synthetic material, like polyester. The next is the mid-layer, which provides insulation and it can fleece, wool (like a traditional Icelandic lopapeysa), or a synthetic material.

Last, but certainly not least, is the outer layer. It provides protection.

Winter boots with a sole that has good grip and micro spikes to add on to the bottom of your boots are a must! It’s incredibly icy in the capital area and all around the country during winter.

Windproof & waterproof gloves, thick socks, a hat, and scarf will come in handy.

On the other end of the clothes spectrum that is a must to bring is your swimwear. Dipping into a luxuriously warm hot tub when it’s chilly outside is one of the best feelings. Yes, the path to get there from the dressing room can be an invigorating experience but it’s totally worth it

The Ultimate Iceland Packing Checklist - Winter & Summer

Road Conditions & Driving in Iceland in February

Road conditions will vary depending on where you are in Iceland. I’ve traveled to the West, South, and North during this time of the year and I’ve encountered mostly icy roads but there were also times when the roads were dry. The ring road, which circles around the country is paved, so you don’t have to worry about rough roads if you plan to go to many of the popular attractions. There will be a gravel road here or there.

The most important thing is there are nail tires on the rental cars here, so you will have that added bit of traction when driving. It makes a huge difference, especially on country roads. Driving during winter can be challenging if you are not used to wintery conditions. Even if you are, the wind gusts can shake the car a bit while you’re on the road. I always suggest that people drive at speed that they feel comfortable. It might be a little less than the speed limit bit at least you will get there safely.

Why You Should Visit Iceland in February

• Northern lights
• The landscape is a winter wonderland
• Totally frozen or half-frozen waterfalls

Top Activities to Do in February in Iceland

• Northern Lights
• Ice Cave Tours
• Glacier Tours – hiking & climbing
• Snowmobile Tours
• Bláafjöll mountain near Reykjavík
• Troll Peninsula
• Fun Winter Road Trips
• Bathing in Geothermal Pools

February Events in Iceland

• Winter Lights Festival
• List í ljósi – Art in the Light

Random Fact of the Episode

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.

Icelandic word of the episode

Febrúar – February

Previous Episodes About Months in Iceland

• January in Iceland
• February in Iceland
• March in Iceland
• April in Iceland
• May in Iceland

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Iceland in February: Top 7 Best Things to Do

Here is a comprehensive and practical travel guide for those planning to visit Iceland in February.

Snow blankets most of Iceland’s towns and landscapes in February. But it’s an ideal time to view the iconic Northern Lights because the days have more darkness than light. Moreover, much of the country remains accessible despite the quasi-arctic climate.

Adventurous folks can still drive the entire Ring Road throughout the month. It’s possible, though, for them to base on one location and view some of the country’s most impressive natural wonders from there.

Keep in mind, however, that the month presents a lot of dangers. Expect unpredictable weather patterns, hazardous road conditions, and darkness without sufficient road lighting.

The good thing about February is its relative quietness compared to the high season. February has been among the country’s least crowded months during the past few years. Now, don’t miss trying the following activities in Iceland in February .

Planning to visit on some other months? Here’re our guides for each time of the year:

• Iceland in January: Top 5 Can’t-Miss Things to Do

Best Things to Do in Iceland in February

1. chasing the northern lights in iceland in february.

Tourists arriving in Iceland during the winter months, such as February , have a high chance of seeing the famous Northern Lights. Because of its dark skies and diminished cloud cover, February is one of the best times to relish the Northern Lights.

Good solar activity and clear skies are the two primary factors that lead to a perfect Northern Lights hunt. Consider driving to the remote towns or escape into the wilderness to get a better view of the rare phenomenon.

Make sure to check out the cloud cover forecast and aurora forecast when planning to hunt the Northern Lights by yourself. If you’re planning to get stunning shots of the lights, prepare the right equipment, and learn the important factors in properly shooting the Aurora Borealis.

WHERE TO STAY? Best hotels in Iceland

2. Explore Ice Caves in Iceland in February

What’s it like strolling inside naturally-formed tunnels underneath Vatnajokull glacier, Europe’s largest icecap ? That’s something tourists will know when they visit the hidden ice caves in Iceland, a rare winter-exclusive activity.

Touring ice caves can only happen a few times during the year because of inaccessibility, the sparsity of glaciers, and specific factors required for their formation.

Visitors can access these caves in March and between October or early November yearly. Consider checking the websites of local tour operators for updated information about ice cave tours in Iceland.

Rainfall is another condition that limits the ice cave’s accessibility as they become structurally unattractive after flooding.

Only tourists who are part of a guided tour can visit an ice cave or two. So make sure to register and book in advance and never wander on your own.

3. Watch Whales in their Natural Habitats in Iceland in February

Visitors can participate in whale watching from Reykjavik during any season of the year. More than 20 kinds of cetaceans visit the surrounding waters of Iceland . Many of these gentle giants settle on Icelandic waters during the entire winter season.

Known for their acrobatic antics and social nature, white-beaked dolphins are the most abundant species. They can be found feeding or playing in the deep waters of Faxafloi Bay.

Another year-round resident of Iceland’s waters is the harbor porpoises, which are more elusive than the white-beaked dolphins. Spectators can also catch sight of Beaked whales, Pilot whales, and Orcas throughout February.

4. Try Lava Caving in Iceland in February

February is one of the best months for joining a lava caving activity because it offers ideal conditions. However, it requires an extra dose of an adventurous spirit as it is more daunting compared to the summer months.

The month provides extra appeal because, inside the tunnels, visitors will find beautiful formations of ice.

Water slowly trickles through it because lava rock is very porous. The water seeping through the cave’s ceilings often freezes in the extremely cold temperature, gradually forming stunning icicles.

Equally, mesmerizing ice shapes also form when the water that seeps through the ceiling freezes before falling into the ground. All these formations with their glittering features make up for dramatic shots.

5. Snorkel in Iceland in February

Many folks may only associate snorkeling in Iceland with daredevils, but almost anyone can actually do it given the availability of modern dry suit equipment.

The most popular spot for snorkeling in Silfra which lies between two massive tectonic plates. It is also dubbed as one of the top ten dive sites in the world .

Open all year round, Silfra lies in Pingvelliar National Park . It boasts of crystal-clear waters with visibility that goes beyond more than one hundred meters. What a way to experience fascinating geology and magical blue light emanating from the scene.

Nothing is more adventurous for many than snorkeling and swimming on a site surrounded by ice and snow. Qualified thrill-seekers can also try diving in Silfra.

6. Hiking the Glaciers in Iceland in February

Almost every major corner in Iceland offers opportunities for glacier hiking throughout the year. But during February, visitors will come across extra features such as electric blue ice carpeting the midwinter’s glaciers.

Both nestled in South Iceland, Solheimajokull and Svinafellsjokull are the two main glaciers that are open for hiking . Have a deep understanding of Iceland’s geology and the glacier’s fascinating features when trekking on one of them or both.

7. Riding a Horse in Iceland in February

The Icelandic horse has emerged into a resilient and strong animal that can navigate through the landscapes even during February’s harshest days. This comes as a result of its more than one thousand years of evolutionary isolation.

Visitors can see them playing in the snow, socializing, or running around except when there are impending blizzards. There are horsing riding tours visitors can avail during any season of the year.

Horseback riding on Iceland’s winter landscapes is one way for visitors to have an understanding of the harsh realities of living as an Icelandic warrior. It will also give you a glimpse of how the ancient Icelanders have been surviving despite the harsh weather conditions.

The cold weather not only shaped the horses’ resistance but also their intelligence and curiosity. It’s no wonder some tourists love spending time with them during either morning or afternoon.

So those are just some of the best things to do in Iceland in February. Consider adding some or all of them in your itinerary for a fun-filled and meaningful travel experience.

Not only will you enjoy the sights but have a deeper understanding of Iceland’s rich geological and natural heritage.

Do you want to travel around Scandinavia? Start here!

Can’t decide where to go check out these posts.

• Top 15 STUNNING Places to Visit in Scandinavia
• Top 15 BEST Places to Visit in Northern Europe
• Top 17 UNIQUE Places to Visit in the Nordics
• Northern Lights Holiday: Top 10 Destinations to Spot Aurora Borealis
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Check out these activities in Iceland

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Evan Kristine a.k.a Pretty Wild World is a professional travel blogger with over 10 years of experience in content creation. Originally from the Philippines, she's been living in Finland for 15+ years working as a chef and entrepreneur in Tampere, Finland.

She's an expert in Finland travel and explores the country often sharing her insights and tips in this blog and social medias. She also splits her free time either going for weekend getaways in Europe or galavanting to different European destinations on her holidays. All her useful Europe travel guides are also in this blog!

Evan Kristine is also the food blogger behind at The Kitchen Abroad and on her free time, she enjoys decorating her 75m2 apartment and shares her experience over at Solía Avenue .

A true master of her own life and despite her busy schedule juggling life as a chef, blogger, and entrepreneur, she still finds time to read 50+ books a year and indulge in several hobbies like hiking, working out, yoga, and painting.

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9 reasons to visit Iceland in February

Are you planning to visit Iceland in February? Here’s everything you need to know!

Take a February trip to Iceland and enjoy the Northern Lights, snowy landscapes and fantastic Nordic culture.

It’s an off-peak time to visit, but I think that February is a fantastic time to visit Iceland.

I recently went to Iceland for a winter trip in February, and here are the best reasons to visit in late winter!

Table of Contents

Why visit Iceland in February? 

Visit Iceland in February to see the Northern Lights, snow, whale watching and even skiing!

Here are my favourite things about February in Iceland.

Chance to see the Northern Lights

If you visit Iceland in February, you may well witness one of nature’s most extraordinary displays: the Northern Lights , also known as the Aurora Borealis. 

During this month, the nights are still long enough for dark skies – which means that the lights paint their colours across the sky.

To maximize your chances of seeing the Northern Lights, consider venturing outside of Reykjavik – either on a bus or boat tour or by renting a car. 

The light pollution in the city can obscure the clarity of the Northern Lights. 

Popular Northern Lights watching spots include þingvellir national park, which is just an hour’s drive from the capital, Westfjords or the area around Vik.

Timing is everything when it comes to the Northern Lights. The best hours are typically between 9pm and 2am, with activity peaking around midnight. 

However, this natural phenomenon is unpredictable, and its visibility strongly depends on solar activity and cloud cover. 

So do check the aurora forecast and cloud cover predictions regularly during your stay. Websites and local meteorological services offer updated forecasts that can help to plan!

Remember to dress warmly, as nights can be cold – especially inland.

Layers of thermal clothing, a windproof jacket, warm hats, gloves, and waterproof boots are essential to keep you comfortable! 

Northern Lights tours include transport, a guide, warm drink and overalls. 

Personally, I think that the best way to see the lights is on a boat trip in the Icelandic waters from Reykjavik harbour. 

I didn’t actually see the Northern Lights on my February trip to Iceland (they’re fickle!), but I did see them when I visited Iceland in January .

It’s not the  coldest  month

While it’s chilly, February isn’t actually the coldest month in Iceland! 

In February, the average temperature hovers around -1°C to 3°C (30°F to 37°F) and is slightly milder than in January and December. 

So, while you’re definitely looking at chilly temperatures, Iceland’s weather isn’t quite as dramatic in February! 

This slight uptick in temperatures means that you’re less likely to encounter the extreme cold, especially if you visit at the end of the month. 

This means outdoor excursions and sightseeing can be more comfortable and enjoyable!

That said, weather conditions can often be temperamental, with plenty of snow showers, especially inland. Be mindful of road conditions if you’re driving around Iceland. 

There are more hours of daylight 

February in Iceland marks a turning point – the short days gradually lengthen and, at the end of the month, there are 10 hours of sunlight! What does this mean? More time to spend outdoors!

At the beginning of February, you can expect around 7 hours of daylight, a significant increase from the mere 4 to 5 hours in December.

By the end of the month, daylight extends to approximately 10 hours – so if you want more light, visit at the end of the month. 

This not only brightens the mood but also widens the window for outdoor activities – it gives more flexibility in your itinerary! 

Plenty of winter activities

February in Iceland is wonderful for winter enthusiasts – here are some of the best things to do in Iceland in February! 

• Snowmobiling on Glaciers : Snowmobiling tours on Iceland’s glaciers are unparalleled! Tours typically operate on Langjökull or Vatnajökull.
• Ice Cave : February is an ideal time to explore Iceland’s stunning ice caves, with their ethereal blue interiors. These natural wonders are most stable and accessible during the winter months . 
• Hot Spring Soaking : After a day of cold weather, there’s nothing  quite  like relaxing in one of Iceland’s many geothermal pools or heated outdoor pools. The Blue Lagoon and the Secret Lagoon are popular choices, but there are countless other lesser-known spots where you can enjoy the warm, mineral-rich waters amidst snow-covered landscapes.
• Horseback Riding : Experience the Icelandic countryside on a unique breed of horse known for its sturdy build and smooth gait. Horseback riding tours in February take you through stunning winter scenes, from frozen lakes to snow-draped lava fields.
• Northern Lights Hunts : With its long nights, February remains one of the best months to witness the aurora borealis. Many operators offer Northern Lights tours, taking you away from city lights to locations known for clear skies and good visibility. These tours often provide photography tips too!

Iceland’s beautiful under a blanket of snow 

Many attractions on the ring road including the Golden Circle and on the south coast, are even more beautiful underneath snow! In fact, this time of year is a great time to visit due to the scenic beauty that snow brings!

I prefer visiting Iceland in the winter season just because I think it’s natural beauty is more scenic when the weather’s snowy!

Possibility to see whales

February’s an excellent time to see marine life in North Atlantic Ocean. 

The cold, nutrient-rich waters around the island become a favoured gathering spot for various whale species, making this month especially rewarding for those hoping to catch a glimpse of these magnificent creatures.

You have the opportunity to see a variety of whale species, including the acrobatic humpback whale, the minke whale, and occasionally, the colossal blue whale. Orcas, also known as killer whales, are spotted more frequently during this time, especially in the Westfjords and near the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.

Whale watching in February means braving the cold maritime climate, so dress in warm, waterproof clothing.

Operators often provide warm overalls and hot drinks, but wearing layers, including thermal wear, will keep you comfortable throughout your adventure. Binoculars can enhance your viewing experience, and cameras are a must to capture the breathtaking moments when a whale breaches the surface.

You can go skiing!

As February is one of the coldest months of the year, skiing is still very much possible! 

There are a couple of places to ski near Reykjavik. 

Bláfjöll ski resort and Skálafell ski resort are both just a short drive from Reykjavik city centre. Iceland’s ski resorts might not be as renowned as the rest of Europe’s, but they’re well equipped for a short ski trip!

It’s a romantic place to celebrate Valentine’s Day

The month of February is Valentine’s Day – and where better to celebrate than in the gloriously romantic country of Iceland?

The staggering nature is immensely romantic, as is the soft winter light.

Plus, there are plenty of restaurants in the city for a romantic dinner! Our favourite was Kopar.

Winter Lights Festival

The Winter Lights Festival in Reykjavik happens in February and is an ode to the Northern Lights. Streets and landmarks become stages for light art that invites admiration and interaction.

The festival has a program packed with activities ranging from museum nights and thermal pool parties to guided city walks, each illuminated under the festival’s glow.

It happens in early February each year.

What to wear in Iceland in February?  

The main thing to remember for Iceland in February is warm clothes! February weather is still quite chilly, although the gulf stream prevents Reykjavik and the south east from getting too cold. 

Pack plenty of jumpers, thermals and waterproof boots, as you’ll likely still see some snow (especially if you’re visiting in early February). 

The wind chill can be strong, with high winds frequently occurring, so remember a windbreaker. 

Plus, if it doesn’t snow, it’ll likely rain, so be sure to bring a high-quality rain jacket!

Are you ready to visit Iceland in February?

Whether you’re looking for the Northern Lights, romantic vibes in Reykjavik or keen to try out some snowports, Iceland’s fantastic in February.

Take a look at my full weekend in Reykjavik itinerary here.

Claire Martin

Claire is an expert in exploring Europe in the winter! She's from the UK and has been to over 20 countries on the continent in the winter season. She loves every bit of Europe in the cooler months, including finding winter sunshine in Spain, skiing in the Alps and the charm of the Nordic countries in the festive season.

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Iceland in February – A Complete Guide

February comes near the end of the winters when the weather starts to get milder, but the magic of the snow is still in season. While most parts of the country stay covered in snow in February, some parts from the south and the capital city get a bit warmed up and snow melts for a bit. The month sees a bit more sunlight than December and January even though it is one of the coldest months of the year. February is one of the best months to visit Iceland as all the natural beauty is frozen expertly under the snow, the country is not overcrowded with tourists and the destinations are open to entertaining the visitors.

• Read about Iceland in each month of the year
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• Top Winter Activities in Iceland
• Northern Lights in Iceland
• Hiking in Iceland
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• Rent a car in Iceland
• Discover  hidden gems in Iceland.
• Self Driving in Iceland.

Pros of Visiting Iceland in February

Visiting Iceland is wonderful any month of the year but February has some of its special charms. The weather is pleasant and milder than January so it’s easier to travel and go sightseeing in different parts of the country. The caves are loaded with glistening snow and ice sculptures. The frozen waterfalls are a sight to behold. There are countless festivals and tours for you to take in February. Northern Lights are of course the undying attraction of the winter season and the clear weather of February brings the best chance to witness them in full glory.

Cons of Visiting Iceland in February

You will not be able to catch the midnight sun in February. The weather is very cold so if you are not a fan of the cold then you may find the trip a bit frostier than you can tolerate.

The cold yet pleasant weather of February is the ideal time to enjoy the glimmering streets of the capital city of Iceland . While the days can be used to take the rides, travel to tourist locations in the country or to take tours around the landscapes of Iceland, the long nights can be the time when you slip into comfy clothes and take a walk in the frosted street with colorful houses, busy cafes and positive banter of the crowd. Some of the top spots you can visit when in out in the city are The Penis Museum, Reykjavík Art Museum Hafnarhús, Safna húsið e. The Culture House, The National Museum of Iceland, Hallgrímskirkja Church , see the Sun Voyager or explore the public gardens and parks. Reykjavík is known for its several hot water swimming pools which are worth having a dip.

Heed to the Call of the Blue Ice Caves

Winter marks the ideal time to visit the beautiful crystalline caves of Iceland . The blue-colored beauties form every winter and melt away as the spring approaches so you would not want to miss out on them if you get to Iceland in February. Ice caving is a winter activity and is a rare opportunity because glaciers become scarce after winters. What makes February the ideal month to visit the ice caves is the relatively calmer weather. Most of the winter season sees heavy rainfall which floods the caves. While February has its fair share of precipitation, it is still lesser than other months of the winter season. Most ice caves tours are conducted with Vatnajökull glacier naturally formed crystal ice caves as their destination.

• Ice Cave tours in Iceland
• Travel Guide to Ice Caves in Iceland

Fur Coated Wonders – Horseback Ride

Just like horseback riding , hiking is also a year-round event in Iceland. What makes hiking extra special in February is the electric blue ice that envelopes the glaciers from top to bottom. Glacier hiking in February is a whole different kind of experience if done while taking necessary precautions. Sólheimajökull glacier and Svinafellsjökull glacier in South Iceland are two of the main glaciers which you will find open for hiking in February. It is best to hire a local tour guide to both ensure your safety while hiking as well as to know a bit about the geology of Iceland.

• Glacier Hiking Tours in Iceland
• Travel Guide to Glacier Hiking in Iceland

Visit the Lava Caves

With the mesmerizing icicles in the picture, lava caving in February is extra fun as compared to the summer season. The porous lava rocks let the water seeps through them slowly which freezes in the extremely low temperature of February in Iceland forming beautiful ice sculptures in the process. The water that manages to reach ground makes the caves slippery but provides a beautiful glittery look adding to the beauty of the already splendid beauty of the place. Iceland has both challenging and easy to conquer lava caves. Depending on your preference you can choose to visit Raufarhólshellir or Víðgelmir which are relatively easy to complete or you can pack your backpack and set out for Leiðarendi where you will have to scramble through narrow spaces, and have to encounter many other geographical challenges. Amidst all this, one thing is for sure – you will have a time of your life.

• Best Lava Caves in Iceland

Snorkeling and Diving Never Gets Old

One of the top ten diving sites in the world, Silfra in Iceland is open throughout the year for snorkeling and diving . It is located in Þingvellir National Park and is filled with crystal clear spring water with visibility that extends up to 100 meters. While diving in the summer season holds its magic in the beauty of colorful fissure, the winter season is unique for the divers. Silfra dive is considered to be one of the rarest dives for its location which falls right between two tectonic plates making it a dive between continents. Proper security measures should be taken while preparing for your dive. Due to the overbearing cold weather, dry suits are seen as appropriate safety gear for the divers. There is a list of health criteria you should meet before preparing to dive, for example, you must be over 16 years old, weigh 45+ kg, 145+ cm tall, etc. Pregnant women are not allowed to dive.

• Snorkeling & Diving Tours in Iceland
• Travel Guide to Diving & Snorkeling in Iceland

Visit the Hot Springs

There is never a bad time to take a dip in the soothing hot natural stream of water of Iceland. Although, it is a rather unique transcendent experience when you take the same dip surrounded by fresh winter snow. February does not bring a lot of tourists so most places are not very crowded so you can enjoy all by yourself. Less crowd also means that it is the ideal time to visit some of the most popular places like The Blue Lagoon and The Secret Lagoon.

The Winter Lights Festival

The Winter Light Festival celebrates the lengthening of the daylight in the country and the beauty as well as grace that the wintery world brings. It is celebrated in the first week of February. The beginning of the festival is marked when the lights all across the town are turned on. Later the lights are followed by a variety of events related to music, art, history, culture as well as culture. Two special events that are not to be missed are Museum night on February 2 nd and Pool Night in on February 3 rd . Cities’ public pools and museums hold special events and some unique entertainment arrangements for the guests.

Reykjavík Rainbow Pride

Amidst the Pink Masquerade Ball and Welcome Party at Kiki, the Rainbow pride festival in Reykjavík could be seen as the second part of the Pride Parade that takes place in August. People gather in the countryside and make the most out of the landscapes that February brings along. The banter of nature is mixed with a bountiful of music, food, culture, and nightlife. The event rooster includes Northern Lights viewing, LGBT guided tours, Bus tours to Reykjanes peninsula and Blue Lagoon, Golden Circle tour, wonderful meals, and ballroom parties.

Bolludagur, Öskudagur and Sprengidagur

‘Bun day’ aka Bolludagur falls about 6 weeks before Easter. Cream filled buns, meatballs, and fish balls are on the menu for everyone on this special day. The cafes and restaurants have all kinds and sizes of buns stacked up on the shelves and served filled with jams and cream. After Bolludagur comes the ‘Eat-Until-You-Burst-Day’ also known as Sprengidagur. This day is all about lentil soup, salted meat, vegetables, fatty food, and traditional mutton. Ash Wednesday is another food festive day in Iceland. Also known as Ash Wednesday, it falls about 40 days before Easter. It can be seen as an equivalent of a traditional American holiday named Halloween but without the ghostly gothic theme that Halloween sustains. Children dress up in costumes and go store to store singing songs in exchange for candy.  

Best Multi Day Tours to take in Iceland in February

• 2 Days Blue Ice Cave, South Coast & Northern Lights
• 3 Days Blue Ice Cave, South Coast, Golden Circle & Northern Lights
• 5 Days Snæfellsnes, Golden Circle & South Coast
• 6 Days winter tour Around Iceland

Down to Every Last Detail – Pack the Essentials

While February weather is comparatively pleasant and milder than other major months of the winter season, there are still a few things that you should not forget to drop in your trip luggage. The weather is still extremely cold and one should be prepared for all unforeseen weather changes that may occur. Apart from the clothes and warm layers, there are many other things that you must pack for a successful trip on the beautiful island. Here is a list of all essentials that you must have:

Heavy Outwear

• Windproof Jacket for hiking and other activities
• Waterproof Pants
• Insulated Jacket to keep warm outside
• Protective warm woolen hats, and caps
• Scarf as a shield against the wind
• Warm heavy gloves

Extra Inner Layers

• Thermal Underwear for comfort and warmth
• Fleece and woolen layers in the form of jackets, jumpers, and sweaters
• Cotton shirts/t-shirts as sleepwear and to prevent wool allergies
• Comfortable stretchable leggings
• Outwear/ Party Clothes – Jeans, Dresses, etc.
• Swimsuit for hot springs
• Hiking Boots and waterproof boots
• Casual Shoes, Sandals, Flip Flops, and comfortable shoes

Additional Important Picks

• Camera and Camera gear like a tripod for aurora photography
• Soap, bath towels, shampoo, face washes, etc.
• Gadgets like phones, tablets, chargers, and travel adapters.
• Water bottles (reusable) and thermos
• Flashlights and batteries
• Rain cover for hiking and touring bags
• Windshield like sunglasses
• Prescribed medicines and over the counter drugs
• Water Bottle

We hope this article about Iceland in February will help you figure out if it’s the best month for you to visit Iceland or not. 

We would love to hear your thoughts. Tell us about your tips and tricks to when it comes to planning a trip to Iceland. 

It would be perfect if you let us know about your favorite locations from your trip. It’s even better if they are hidden gems that you would like to share with the rest of us. 

Leave your comments and questions below and we will happily answer all of them.

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Hidden Gems

February in Iceland: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

One of the beautiful things about Iceland is that it has a very distinct personality for each of its seasons. While the beautiful, summer weather is short-lived, you'll get a true feel for the brutal power the weather holds over this island when you visit during the winter. It's a wonderful thing to witness.

It may seem intimidating to visit a harsh, near-Arctic climate during the wintertime, but don't let that scare you off. Walking through a snowstorm in Iceland, given you're properly dressed for the occasion, is like dropping yourself in the center of a snow globe. Plus, the hot springs feel even better when you have to hop through some snow piles to get in them.

Urgent Seasonal Information

One thing that may surprise first-time visitors is the length of day. In February, the sun generally rises around 10 a.m. and sets at approximately 5:15 p.m. Seven hours of sunlight may seem like plenty, but it will take a toll—especially if you plan on driving around the country on a road trip.

Be flexible if you are embarking on said road trip. The nasty weather can cause road closures—sometimes lasting days—that can put a cramp in your itinerary. Either plan extra time for getting around or stick to one area of the country.

Iceland Weather in February

February is known as one of biggest wildcard months the country sees, when it comes to weather patterns. It's still cold enough (average temperatures hover around 35 degrees F) for strong blizzards to pass through, especially when the near-freezing temps turn the rain into icy hail. And when it isn't snowing, chances are it's incredibly windy, and February does bring with it the most rainfall of the other months throughout the year.

Consider this, though: it's actually colder in cities like New York City during this time of the year than it is in Iceland.

What to Pack

The key to visiting Iceland in February and not having a horrible time is to pack layers. The weather is incredibly unpredictable during this time and there's a good chance you'll experience all seasons in the span of an afternoon. It's not rare to witness hail, snow, white-out conditions, sun, extreme wind, and rain within hours. Your outerwear must be waterproof, including—most importantly—your boots. Hiking can be tough during this time of year, but if you're set on doing it, invest in some quality hiking outfits and consider insulated snow or rain pants.

You can never have enough pairs of socks, either. Pack more than you think you'll need because there's a good chance your feet will get wet, no matter how water-sealed your boots may be.

February Events in Iceland

Despite the intimidating weather, there's a lot happening in Iceland during the month of February. If you're looking for cultural events, it's best to stick to Reykjavik, where most of the festivals are happening at this time of the year.

• Winter Lights Festival : From Feb. 6 to 9, locals get together to celebrate the lengthening of the days. During this time, museums are open later and will host a plethora of dance, music, literature, and film events. Many of the city swimming pools are free during the festival and open late, and there are light installations set up all around Reykjavik.
• Rainbow Reykjavik : The country's wintertime pride event is held from Feb. 13 to 16, featuring queer BINGO nights, Northern Lights hunting, group dinners, and parties.
• Northern Lights Bachata Festival : Feb. 21 to 23 will mark Reykjavik's first-ever Northern Lights Bachata Festival. The event pays homage to the Bachata style of dancing with workshops, shows, and parties.
• Food and Fun Festival : From Feb. 27 through March 3, the Food and Fun Festival in Reykjavik brings together some of the best chefs from within Iceland and outside of its borders to celebrate creative menus with Icelandic ingredients.

February Travel Tips

• Expect road closures due to inclement weather and don't even try to access the Central Highlands
• When renting a car, make sure you have four-wheel drive.
• Expect very little sunlight during the day. And many roads at night are not lit, so avoid driving after sunset if possible.
• Have a back-up plan if you want to camp; the weather can derail your intentions.

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• Discover Iceland in February: Handy Guide

Enjoy Iceland in February. A real winter wonderland

• Travel Guide

Thinking about hitting Iceland in February? I’m here to spill the beans! Let’s talk about what’s up with the weather, what to toss in your suitcase, and how to get prepped for your journey. And hey, I’ll clue you in on some awesome February tours and the sweetest things to do, like whale watching, hunting down those captivating northern lights, exploring ice caves, and a bunch more fun stuff.

So, when February hits, Iceland’s pretty much a snowy wonderland. And darkness takes over more than daylight, making it the prime time to catch those mesmerizing northern lights.

You know, Iceland in February might seem like a wild ride with its crazy weather, but here’s the deal: it’s still pretty accessible. You’ve got options – hit the road and explore the entire Ring Road or just chill in one spot and discover loads of amazing places from there.

A word to the wise: driving around Iceland in February can be a bit of an adventure. I’m talking tricky roads, surprise weather swings, pitch-black nights, and not much light once you’re off the beaten path.

But here’s the sweet part: February’s the time when Iceland takes a breather – fewer crowds compared to the peak season. It’s been Iceland’s laid-back month for a while now, so it’s perfect if you’re not into the hustle and bustle.

There’s a ton of cool winter activities waiting for you! So, no worries about getting bored during your Icelandic escapade. Stick around for the lowdown on enjoying Iceland in February!

Navigating Iceland in February: Must-Knows

You’re going to be absolutely wowed by the serene, snowy landscapes and the cities buzzing with life. But let me share a few nuggets of wisdom before you dive in, especially about staying safe with the driving and weather of Iceland in February.

Exploring by Car in Iceland in February

So, driving in Iceland in February, it’s kind of its own beast. Usually, the roads are decent, but in winter? Man, it’s like a whole different world.

Imagine this: roads slick with ice, with snowdrifts that look like they’re straight out of a movie set. And the weather? It throws everything at you – heavy snow, rain, and it’s dark a lot, like you’re in some moody film noir. Plus, the wind is no joke – it can make your car feel like it’s caught in a tango.

You really should only grab a rental car if you’ve got some solid experience driving in tricky, icy conditions. You know, the kind where the roads are more ice than asphalt. And if you do decide to rent, seriously consider getting a four-wheel drive. It’s like the difference between wearing sneakers and snow boots in a blizzard – trust me on this.

Now, about the tires, because that’s super important too. You can’t use chains on your tires there, but don’t worry, every car comes with winter tires. That’s like the basic setup. But here’s a pro tip: a lot of rental places have studded tires – we’re talking tires with little nails for extra grip. It’s like having cleats for your car, which is pretty cool. Make sure you ask for these studded bad boys if they’re not already part of your rental package. Stay safe and enjoy the ride!

Alright, so next up on the list of ‘ Keeping Yourself Safe in Iceland 101 ‘: make sure you let someone know your travel plans. It’s like leaving breadcrumbs – if something goes sideways, it’s way easier for someone to find you. And here’s another biggie: always, and I mean always, check the weather website for your route and destination before you head out. Things change fast out there, so make it your morning ritual to recheck conditions. Some spots are notorious for avalanches and stuff, so better safe than sorry, right?

Now, about those roads. The ones going into the Highlands and a bunch in the Westfjords? Forget about them in winter. They’re closed. These are the ‘F-Roads’ – and no, that ‘F’ isn’t what you’re thinking! It stands for ‘fjall’, which means ‘mountain’ in Icelandic. Pretty much a no-go zone in the colder months.

Parking – this can be a sneaky one. Be super careful where you park. Getting stuck in the snow is no joke, and guess what? Most insurance won’t cover the cost to tow your car out. That’s a bill you don’t want to be surprised with.

Last but definitely not least: if a road is closed off, it’s closed for a reason. Don’t even think about crossing it. And off-road driving? Big no-no. It’s not only illegal with some seriously hefty fines (and even jail time), but in winter, it’s downright dangerous. Let’s keep the adventures fun and safe, alright? Enjoy your trip!

Weather in Iceland in February : What to Expect?

So, let’s talk February in Reykjavik, the capital. Temps usually hang around 33.8 F (1 C), and it’s no surprise – it’s a bit of a wet one, averaging about 3.3 inches (83 millimeters) of rain.

Now, Iceland’s February weather ? It’s all over the place! Picture this: snow, wind, and rain might just team up on you – maybe all in one day! It can be a rollercoaster.

The nights? Cold and dark, real long ones too. But here’s the cool part – daylight increases by nine minutes every day. Snow’s got a silver lining – it brightens up those dark hours. And when the sky’s clear and chilly, that’s when the northern lights put on their show. So, wrap up and keep your eyes peeled for that magical display!

Wardrobe Essentials for Iceland in February

Get ready to pack like you’re off to a winter wonderland!

First things first, hiking boots. Even if you’re just planning to hang in Reykjavik, those streets can be like a mini ice age – either super slick with fresh ice or that tricky, melting kind. Regular shoes might seem fine at first, but unless you’re into the idea of cold, wet feet, go for the boots.

Gloves are up next. Not just any gloves, though – you want the good stuff. Think leather gloves with a snug fleece lining. They’re basically like a warm hug for your hands.

Now, if you’re venturing outside the city, wind and waterproof pants are your best friends. The weather can be a bit of a wild card – usually windy and wet.

Okay, gear checklist! Those windproof and waterproof pants? Absolutely essential! Once you step away from Reykjavik, Iceland’s weather plays its game – mostly windy and wet during February. So, trust me, packing those pants is a smart move.

Now, for the twist – a swimsuit! Hear me out, it might sound random. But if you’re eyeing the hot springs, geothermal pools, hitting up local swimming spots, or planning a day at the Blue Lagoon or snorkeling in Silfra, that swimsuit’s your ticket to join the fun.

Let’s talk about staying cozy! Here’s the golden rule: pile on those warm layers – scarves, hats, gloves, the whole shebang. And for that comfy, easy-pack vibe, fleece and wool items are your A-team.

Daylight Patterns in Iceland in February

Moving on to daylight hours in Iceland in February. Brace yourself, it’s kinda short, but hey, it’s all part of the winter charm. At the start, sunrise plays it cool at 10:07 AM, and by 5:16 PM, it’s saying, ‘See ya!’

But as the month rolls on, sunrise comes in earlier, around 8:38 AM, and sunset’s partying until 6:43 PM, giving you a sweet 10 hours of daylight by the end of February!

Blue Lagoon Accessibility during February

The Blue Lagoon keeps its doors wide open in February. It’s an all-year-round deal. Sure, the thermometer might scream ‘brrr’, but trust me, soaking in that toasty water amidst the chilly air? Pretty darn magical.

Oh, and snap-happy folks, listen up! Winter’s the time to grab that camera and capture that cool, thick steam rising from the warm, azure waters. Instagram gold, seriously.

And hey, it’s not just the Blue Lagoon! Iceland’s got loads more hotspots – we’re talking geothermal spas, hot springs, and public pools scattered all over. Check out the Sky Lagoon for some capital relaxation vibes or venture to the stunning Hvalfjordur fjord to unwind in the lavish Hvammsvik Hot Springs.

Iceland in February: Must-Do Activities

If you’re all about diving into the winter wonderland of Iceland in February, you’ve got a bunch of cool activities on your plate. Winter exclusives, you know? Stuff like exploring ice caves in Vatnajokull glacier or going on a quest for the northern lights.

And here’s a quirky twist: ever thought about snorkeling in Silfra with the snow and ice as your backdrop? Trust me, it’s a whole new level of magic.

Check out our top picks for things to do in Iceland this February.

Hunting the Northern Lights in Iceland in February

Seeing the northern lights is a big draw for most travelers in Iceland during winter, especially in February. Why? Because that’s when the skies are clearer, darker, and make for the perfect aurora borealis show. To catch this stunning spectacle, head out of Reykjavik. City lights can dim the magic of the northern lights. The best bet? Take a guided tour or a cruise outside the city to experience this enchanting display.

Here’s the scoop about catching those dazzling northern lights: soon as you touchdown in Iceland in February, consider booking a tour pronto. These lights play hard-to-get, so if they don’t show up on your first try, most tour guides will gladly give it another go.

Quick tip: it’s a good call to try it early in your trip ’cause sometimes the weather doesn’t play nice. If the forecast looks gloomy or the lights aren’t shining too bright, the tours might get called off. So, better to try your luck as soon as you arrive!

More chances equal more magic, so keep your schedule flexible if you miss out the first time.

If you’re off on a solo hunt for the northern lights, peek at the aurora forecast (anything above a 3 is a good go) and check the cloud cover for the area.

Photography enthusiast? Make sure you’ve got the gear and know-how for capturing the aurora. Patience is key, so relax and wait for that perfect shot.

February's Frozen Wonders: Ice Cave Exploration

When you’re thinking about what to do in Iceland in February, one of the coolest winter activities is exploring the ice caves nestled beneath the massive Vatnajokull glacier, Europe’s largest ice cap. These caves are super rare, forming naturally in a way that’s hard to come by.

Rain can sometimes play a spoiler – heavy rainfall can make the caves unsafe, leading to tour cancellations. But hey, February’s rainfall isn’t as intense as other winter months, so it’s a better shot at bagging an ice cave tour.

Remember, it’s risky business exploring these caves solo. You’ll need to join a guided group for safety. If you’re up for a combo adventure, you can pair an ice cave tour with a 2-day trip along the South Coast or a 3-day adventure covering the Golden Circle & South Coast. These tours take you to some jaw-dropping spots like the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon and the scenic Skaftafell Nature Reserve – offering a taste of Iceland’s breathtaking natural beauty.

Marine Marvels: Whale Watching in Iceland in February

In February, Reykjavik’s still buzzing with whale-watching tours that run all year round. You’d be amazed to know there are over twenty different types of whales swimming around Iceland’s waters during this time.

Those playful white-beaked dolphins steal the show in February, showing off their social skills and playful jumps in Faxafloi bay. But hey, spotting harbor porpoises might need a bit more patience; they’re around, just a tad elusive.

Alongside these dolphins and porpoises, you might get a peek at orcas, pilot whales, and beaked whales enjoying the chilly Icelandic waters. Oh, and let’s not forget about those minke whales—some of them choose to stay back rather than migrating that year!

Just a heads-up, similar to those northern lights tours, whale-watching trips might get called off if the weather decides to throw a tantrum. Sometimes, you might not get lucky spotting those majestic sea creatures. But don’t worry, most tour operators offer another go at it for free if that happens.

Here’s a handy tip: It’s smart to hop on a whale-watching jaunt early in your trip. That way, if you miss out on a whale sighting, you’ve got time to give it another shot.

And when you’re getting set for the whale watch, make sure you’re all bundled up! Those sea winds can get pretty chilly. Usually, they provide these nifty overalls to keep you cozy, but bringing your warmest gear is a smart move. Those winds don’t play nice, you know!

Underground Wonders: Lava Caving in Iceland in February

Diving into lava caves of Iceland in February is an awesome adventure, even though it’s a tad more challenging than in summer. But you know what’s cool? The icing on the cake (literally!) in February are these amazing ice formations inside the tunnels.

Lava rock acts like a sponge, letting water move through it slowly. So, when the water seeps through the cave’s ceilings, the freezing cold turns it into these awesome icicles or tiny stalactites. It’s like nature’s own ice sculpture show! And when that water hits the ground, it creates these equally cool ice shapes.

It’s a real treat for the eyes, but watch your step – all that ice can make things slippery! Don’t fret about gear though, the guides will set you up with crampons and helmets. If you want an easier cave trip, Raufarholshellir or Vidgelmir cave are great options. They’re roomier and have walkways, making your underground expedition a breeze.

Taking a Dip in Iceland's Public Pools in February

Icelanders love their public swimming pools—they’re a hub for socializing and unwinding. After a long day or even on weekends, it’s where you’ll find locals relaxing and catching up with friends.

These pools are heated by geothermal energy and are scattered across towns in Iceland. In Reykjavik, for instance, there are seven public pool centers. The largest boasts two Olympic-size pools—one indoors and one outdoors, alongside smaller pools, hot tubs of various temperatures, and spacious public saunas.

Imagine soaking in an outdoor pool with the air brisk and chilly—it’s an authentic Icelandic experience you won’t forget!

Snorkeling in Iceland's Chilled Waters

Iceland in February offers a unique adventure: snorkeling in Silfra. You might think it’s only for the bravest souls, but hey, modern drysuit gear makes it doable for almost anyone. Silfra’s open year-round and it’s not just any dive spot – it’s legendary!

Nestled in Thingvellir National Park, Silfra’s this stunning gorge filled with the clearest spring water you’ll ever see. Imagine diving into this world of mesmerizing blue hues and fantastic geological formations with visibility that goes beyond 330 feet (100 meters).

Now, picture yourself snorkeling in Silfra beneath the swirling auroras. And here’s the cherry on top: imagine swimming in between snow-capped surroundings.

It’s an exclusive chance, something so unique you’ll hardly find it elsewhere. Especially snorkeling between two different tectonic plates – that’s an experience you won’t forget!

Before diving into Silfra, there are some things to consider. For diving, you’ll need to be a certified drysuit diver or have a solid record of ten logged drysuit dives in the last two years.

Now, for snorkeling in Silfra, here are some general guidelines (though these might differ slightly based on the tour company):

You should be at least 16 years old. Swimming ability is a must. Height should be over 4 feet 7 inches (145 centimeters), and weight should be over 99 pounds (45 kilograms). For folks above 60, or if you’re 45 and love your pipes or a good drink, a medical waiver’s required. Similarly, if there are underlying neurological, circulatory, or respiratory conditions, a medical waiver is necessary. Oh, and the snorkeling gig’s not for expectant moms either.

Glacier Trekking in Iceland's February Frost

Glacier hiking is something you can do any time of the year and it’s pretty awesome every time. But, let me tell you, February adds a special touch to it. You’ve got these glaciers covered in this electric blue ice – it’s like stepping into a magical world! And guess what? Ice caves!

Yes, those beautiful formations hiding inside the glaciers. In February, the Solheimajokull and the Svinafellsjokull glaciers down in South Iceland are the go-to spots for this icy adventure.

Get yourself a guide who knows the ropes and voilà! You’ll be diving right into these amazing ice wonders and learning tons about Iceland’s fascinating geolog y. It’s not just a hike; it’s like a trip into an icy wonderland with a bonus science lesson!

Riding horses in Iceland is like being a part of history and soaking in the awesome landscapes all at once. These horses were the backbone of Iceland back in the day, and let me tell you, they’ve got quite the story to share.

What’s cool about Icelandic horses? Besides being tough in the cold, they’re super curious and smart too. Hanging out with them is a real treat – they’re a mix of clever and charming.

Riding one of these Icelandic beauties is like diving deep into Iceland’s heritage . Seriously, it’s an adventure that’s worth every moment!

Unraveling Iceland in February: Must-See Sights

While winter might close off some parts of Iceland, there’s still a lot to explore. You can actually travel the entire Ring Road, either on a guided tour or driving solo.

Iceland’s natural wonders are a big draw for visitors, especially in February. Here are our top four recommendations for sightseeing in February.

Winter Charms of the Golden Circle in Iceland in February

The Golden Circle, a must-see trail, covers Thingvellir National Park , Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall. Each spot is known for its striking beauty and distinct appeal, attracting travelers year-round. February doesn’t disappoint; the snow-draped Thingvellir, with frozen features like the Oxarafoss waterfall, is simply breathtaking.

The Geysir Geothermal Area is a sight to behold in February. Picture a mosaic of vibrant colors popping out from the ground amidst all that snowy landscape. It’s like Mother Nature’s hidden canvas.

Now, let me tell you about Gullfoss waterfall during this time.The rocks wear these icy crowns, sparkling next to the powerful rush of water. And if you’re lucky, catch a rainbow gracing the scene. It’s like stepping into a fairytale!

That’s why folks love the Golden Circle tours here. You get to witness so much breathtaking beauty in just a short time. It’s a real treat for anyone exploring Iceland !

February's Trail: Iceland's South Coast Marvels

February’s a great time to explore Iceland’s South Coast. It’s like a wonderland of diverse landscapes and cool sights.

Think about it: you’ve got these amazing waterfalls, Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss, plus massive glaciers like Solheimajokull and Vatnajokull. And don’t forget the legendary volcanoes – Eyjafjallajokull, Katla, and Hekla!

But that’s not all, there’s Skaftafell Nature Reserve, the stunning Reynisfjara black sand beach, the old Solheimasandur plane wreck , and the breathtaking Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon.

The South Coast is a hit year-round, but keep an eye on the waves at Reynisfjara beach. They can be a bit unpredictable, so best to admire them from a safe spot. Safety’s important, but there’s so much beauty waiting to be explored!

Fantasy Land: Iceland’s Lake Myvatn in February

Up in North Iceland in February, Lake Myvatn is a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered, especially if you’re a Game of Thrones fan. It’s not just a lake; it’s a real-life movie set.

Imagine wandering around and realizing, “Hey, Jon Snow and Ygritte had a romantic moment right here!”

The frozen lake is like nature’s artwork, with unique shapes poking through the ice. And don’t even get me started on Dimmuborgir, the ‘Dark Fortress.’ The snow-draped lava formations are like something out of a dream. It’s not just a sightseeing spot; it’s a journey into a winter wonderland that’s both magical and awe-inspiring.

Iceland in a Nutshell: Snaefellsnes in February

The Snaefellsnes Peninsula, they say it’s like a mini Iceland all on its own, covering about 56 miles (90 kilometers). This place has a bit of everything that makes Iceland so special.

No matter when you visit, there’s a buffet of natural goodies here – think volcanoes, mountains, lava fields, beautiful beaches, cool rocks, vast fields, and charming little towns.

When February rolls in, it’s like a snow-coated dreamland. The mountains wear fresh snow caps, waterfalls freeze up a bit, and those rocky shores stay just as striking. And guess what?

February is when orcas often drop by for a visit along the coast, especially around Snaefellsnes, the place to be for catching these awesome creatures.

Highlight Festivities in Iceland in February

Beyond Iceland’s natural marvels, the vibrant festival scene in Reykjavik is a huge draw for tourists. Every month, the capital buzzes with events that attract both visitors and locals. Here are a few notable ones.

Winter Lights Festival: Glimmering Nights

Kicking off every first weekend of February, the Winter Lights Festival marks the start of brighter days amidst the winter backdrop. As the city illuminates with lights, a series of events unfold over several days. There’s a bit of everything—music, sports, art, history, and cultural affairs.

Keep an eye out for Museum Night and Pool Night; these evenings bring unique entertainment to the city’s museums and public pools. They’re absolute musts!

Thorrablot: Celebrating Culinary Heritage

Thorrablot is a unique cultural fest that happens from late January to mid-February, marking the lunar month of Thorri in the old Norse calendar. This fest is all about Icelanders celebrating their roots by digging into traditional Icelandic dishes that have been around for ages.

Now, some of these eats might not tickle everyone’s taste buds at first. We’re talking about fermented shark (hakarl), boiled sheep’s head (svid), and ram’s testicles (hrutspungar) – definitely not your average dinner fare!

But hey, they’ve been a part of Iceland’s history for centuries, helping folks survive the harsh times. But if you’re not up for those adventures in eating, there’s also smoked lamb (hangikjot), rye bread (rugbraud), and delicious stockfish (hardfiskur) to savor, especially with a good dollop of butter.

Thorrablot isn’t your typical festival with flashy events all over the city. It’s more like a month-long celebration where folks gather for family dinners or companies throw Thorrablot feasts for their employees. You won’t find a big public event downtown, though.

But here’s the thing: during January and February, lots of these unique dishes are available in Icelandic supermarkets. So, if you happen to visit Iceland at that time , you can pick up some traditional Icelandic grub and have your very own Thorrablot with your travel buddies!

For an even better experience, you might want to consider joining a guided food tour in Reykjavik. They offer awesome traditional Icelandic food tours or guided food lover’s walking tours that showcase the local flavors. Great way to dive into the culture!

Love in Winter Air: Valentine’s Day in Iceland

You know, Icelanders don’t really go all out for Valentine’s Day like folks do in other places. But hey, the date’s catching on, and some fancy hotels and restaurants are starting to roll out special deals and meals on February 14th.

If you happen to be in Iceland for Valentine’s Day, why not make it a bit more special? Grab a table at one of Reykjavik’s top-notch restaurants—they might just have a stellar menu for the occasion.

Or here’s another ace up your sleeve—book a spa day at the Blue Lagoon. Think soaking up in those dreamy milky-blue pools and, wait for it, getting pampered with treatments like massages or facials using cool stuff like algae and silica. It’s like a whole new level of relaxation!

Women's Day: Celebrating Women

Wanna know about an awesome Icelandic tradition? It’s called Woman’s Day, or ‘konudagur’ in Icelandic, and it’s a cool way to celebrate women! Happens in the second half of February, and it’s all about giving a shoutout to the amazing women in your life.

This tradition goes way back to the Norse calendar, which had 13 months based on the moon cycle. Woman’s Day falls on the first day of the month of Goa on that calendar. And get this: guys show their appreciation by doing thoughtful things like bringing flowers, taking their special lady out for dinner, or giving them cool presents. It’s not just romantic; even kiddos give their mom some love with flowers or gifts!

Oh, and if you’re curious, Icelanders also have a Man’s Day! That one’s in the lunar month of Thorri, a month before Goa, and goes down in the second half of January.

Crisp Winter Getaways in Iceland in February

Now that we’ve covered a bunch about touring Iceland in February, I’ve got some pretty cool suggestions for you! These itineraries are all about making your stay in Iceland top-notch, and they’re tailored to fit the number of days you’ve got here. Plus, they’re totally adjustable, so feel free to tweak them to match your vibes, plans, and budget.

Long Weekend Blast

Your epic four-day adventure in Iceland in February kicks off the moment you touch down around noon on day one. You hop on this airport transfer bus from Keflavik International Airport straight to the breathtaking Blue Lagoon.

It’s like a dream—a chance to relax and unwind in those stunning azure waters, maybe even throw on a silica mask for some top-tier pampering. Then, you proceed to settle in your Reykjavik hotel and spend the rest of the night strolling around the city, looking for unique shops and dining in quirky restaurants.

Since there’s a bit of time constraint, it’ll be wise to grab a two-day tour to cruise around the South Coast.

After soaking up the South Coast’s natural wonders, it’s back to Reykjavik for you. Get back to your hotel, freshen up, and get ready to dip your toes into the city’s nightlife. There’s always something buzzing after dark!

Your departure’s likely in the late afternoon on day four, but hey, you’ve got a bit of morning time. How about starting the day with a horseback ride? It’s a real taste of Iceland, trust me!

As your Icelandic adventure winds down, it’s Flybus time to head back to the airport. That’s the wrap on your short but jam-packed February trip to Iceland.

Oh, and here’s a hot tip: if you’ve got a spare day, don’t miss out on a mini-bus tour of the Golden Circle. It’s totally worth extending your stay for this one!

Winter Vacation

To truly soak in the magic of Iceland in February’s winter vibes, you’ll want a solid 10 days on your hands for the Getaway Traveler Itinerary.

Check this out: there’s an option for a10-day Circle of Iceland self-drive tour or a 10-day South Coast self-drive tour. Both let you dive into Iceland’s awesome landscape on your own schedule.

But hey, if you’re not too keen on navigating icy roads, no worries! Consider a holiday package or a guided tour instead. They’ll take the wheel and let you focus on enjoying the ride!

There’s a 9-day minibus adventure. It’s all about hitting the Ring Road, cruising through the East Fjords, and exploring the stunning Lake Myvatn. Then, there’s a 10-day tour option that really digs into the south. You’ll be checking out the Landmannalaugar geothermal area and soaking up the beauty of the Snaefellsnes peninsula.

If you’re aiming to catch the top spots like Lake Myvatn and experience the vibes of the Snaefellsnes peninsula, these packages are golden.

Picking a package is probably your smoothest way to plan your trip and really make the most out of your February escapade in Iceland.

Once you touch down at Keflavik Airport, don’t miss out on the Blue Lagoon experience before settling into your Reykjavik accommodation for the night. Now, here’s the plan for an early start the next morning: kick off an eight-day guided northern lights tour, cruising through the complete ring road. Get ready for some glacier hiking and an epic ice cave exploration. Oh, and you’ll also be exploring the stunning Snaefellsnes peninsula, hitting all the major sites like the Snaefellsjokull glacier and Mt. Kirkjufell.

Winter’s the prime time to catch those amazing northern lights. If you stay away from city lights, chances are good you’ll see the aurora lighting up the sky over these breathtaking natural spots while you’re on your journey through Iceland.

To sum it up, even though Iceland’s still chilly and dark in February, it’s a pretty awesome place to visit. The folks here are super friendly, which adds to the charm.

With nights and days balancing out, fewer crowds around, and a bunch of cool winter activities, there’s this cozy vibe to the month that’ll make your winter adventure really stand out.

Robert Robertsson

Hey, I'm the founder of Airmango. My love affair with travel and entrepreneurship kicked off in 1994 in Iceland. Fast forward through two decades, and I've been lucky enough to weave my career through five different countries. Each place has left its mark on me, not just in my personal life, but in how I approach business too. With Airmango, I'm bringing all those global insights and experiences to the table – it's like seeing the world through a business lens.

GOLDEN CIRCLE, SECRET LAGOON & BUBBLE TOUR

From ISK 74.900 per seat

SOUTH COAST TOUR WITH A BUBBLE STAY

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Check out from the bubbles are 11:00 and head back to Reykjavik for lunch, only about a 70 minutes drive. If you wish to make another stop on the drive back, check out the small town of Hveragerdi – Almar Bakari- or explore the famous Reykjadalur steam valley, which is about a 90-minute hike to geothermal rivers.

Drop off your rental car anytime before 17:00 at your drop-off location.

The Golden Circle and 5 Million Star Hotel

Collect your rental car and head out to Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO world heritage site. Here you can walk between the Euroasian and North American tectonic plates, view the first Parliament, and gaze at the tranquil lake Silfra and picturesque lava fields.

Next on the Golden Circle route is Gullfoss waterfall. Be sure to pack some dry clothes because the force from this waterfall makes the surrounding air very wet. After the waterfall, drive a few minutes to the next stop, Geysir geothermal area where you can see the spouting Strokkur geyser erupt every 7 to 9 minutes.

Add on a dip in the Secret Lagoon before enjoying dinner at one of the nearby restaurants. A good relaxing end before the unique sleeping experience in a bubble.

What’s included

You will have a rental car for a day and stay one night in a bubble at the 5 million star hotel. A bubble fits 2 adults.

Explore the wonders of the South Coast

On the second day, you’ll be wowed by Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls before traveling onwards to the famed black sand beach itself. You may also choose to stop at the rock arch and cliffs of Dyrhólaey; fundamentally spectacular, in the summer months this is also one of the best locations in Iceland to view puffins from land.

You will spend the night in the area of the charismatic town of Vik, with its delightful restaurants and cafes, and picturesque views.

Rental car and accommodation for 2

Explore the Golden Circle

Visit Geysir, the Gullfoss waterfall, and the Thingvellir National park on the Golden Circle before returning to the capital city.

Eccentric, contemporary, and charming, you will find an array of attractions, dining, and bar options in Reykjavik. Reykjavik has the distinction of being the northernmost capital city in the world, though its winters are surprisingly mild for a city of its latitude.

Drop off your rental car in the afternoon at our office.

Glacier Walk – South Coast

Start your day in a spectacular fashion – with a walk on the Sólheimajökull glacier You will be taken onto the glacier by experienced qualified guides and all equipment is provided.

After completing this incredible hike you will visit Iceland’s oldest swimming pool, the Secret Lagoon.

Your last night and well-earned rest will be spent in our bubble hanging from trees.

Rental car, Glacier Walk, entrance to the Secret Lagoon and Bubble accommodation for 2 people.

Pick up your car in our downtown location and start your trip by relaxing in the Blue Lagoon, one of the wonders of the World according to National Geographic. Then drive the scenic route through the charming fishing villages of Stokkseyri and Eyrarbakki to our Golden Circle Bubble location.

Rental car, 2 tickets to the Blue Lagoon and one Bubble accommodation for 2.

Volcano hike and Blue Lagoon

Pick up your car at our garage and head to the Reykjanes Peninsula where, after a two-hour hike, you will witness one of the most unique sights – an erupting volcano. After marveling at the erupting lava jets and flowing streams, you will drive over to the Blue Lagoon to soak in its healing waters. Here you will have the opportunity the dine before heading to your bubble for the night.

Spectacular South Coast and Reykjavik

Heading our from our south coast bubble location you will be wowed by Seljalandsfoss, Gljufarbui, Skogafoss waterfalls before travelling onwards to the famed black sand beach of Reynisfjara.

You can then head towards the charismatic town of Vik, with its delightful restaurants and cafes, and picturesque views. This is an ideal lunch spot before heading back towards the bright lights of Reykjavik. Spend the evening strolling down the main street of Laugavegur and dine out on the harbour, before returning your hire car to the designated location.

You will have rental car for two days and stay one night in a bubble tent at the 5 million star hotel. A bubble is for 2 adults.

Retreat, Lobster and 5 Million Star Hotel

Collect your rental car and head out to the beautiful Reykjanes peninsula. Nestled in the mystical lava fields you will find the Blue Lagoon. Renowned as one of the top spa locations in the world, you will enjoy an extra level of exclusivity in the unforgettable Retreat Spa. Included is a private changing room and Retreat Lagoon pool;  sauna, Lava Cove and skin rejuvenating Blue Lagoon Ritual. There is also the option to unwind with an additional bookable in water massage.

Upon leaving the lagoon fully refreshed you will continue on a picturesque costal drive through the charming villages of Reykjanes as you make your way to the delightful village of Stokkseyri. Here you will dine on delectable fresh local langoustine in an intimate, cosy environment.

Satisfied and relaxed you will make your way to our south coast Bubble locations, where you will sleep under a sky full of stars. This unique sleeping experience is a magical end to a full day of luxurious escapism.

You will have a rental car for two days, a one night stay for 2 adults in one of our bubbles at the 5 Million Star Hotel and admission for 2 to the Blue Lagoon Retreat Spa.

You will begin by setting out for Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO world heritage site and one of the main sights on the Golden Circle. Here you will find Silfra, Iceland’s premiere diving location. With some of the clearest water in the world and  visibility exceeding 100m, you will float between the American and Eurasian continental plates- in places being able to touch both at once.

Explore the depths in Iceland’s premiere diving spot. Silfra is situated in the heart of Thingvellir National Park and just one hours drive from Reykjavik.

With some of the clearest water in the world and  visibility exceeding 100m, you will float between the American and Eurasian continental plates- in places being able to touch both at once.

With experienced and fully qualified Dive Guides and all equipment provided you will be fully prepared before your underwater adventure of a lifetime. This is truly one of the most unique experiences you can have, not only in Iceland, but on the entire planet!

Following on from diving you will warm up in the geothermal waters of Fontana Spa, and this is surely the perfect activity to continue this tour. Overlooking Laugarvatn itself, Fontana is a beautiful and tranquil bathing spot and spa. With steam baths, sauna, relaxing pools, and the lake itself (if you are brave enough to take a dip!), Fontana promotes health, wellbeing and relaxation, within the beautiful and spectacular Icelandic landscape.

30 minutes drive away from Laugarvatn you will find our exclusive Restaurant Sumarrós. A greenhouse with dining capacity for 6 people, this intimate and elegant space, sources local produce and like our bubbles, is a true escape from the ordinary.

You will end the day with a night in our unique Bubble accommodation surrounded by the wonders of nature.

There are many dining options in the town of Laugarvatn or in Flúðir which is closer to our Bubble location.

This stay is designed simply for your relaxation.

Staying in our south coast location, you will be provided with 6 bottles of exceptional craft beer provided by Ölvisholt brewery.

The perfect way to wind down from the toils of life, you will experience the serenity of our incredible Bubbles whilst sampling some of the finest beer bubbles in Iceland.

Best February Tours in Iceland

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Amazing 5-Day Northern Lights Winter Vacation Package in Iceland with Ice Caving & the Blue Lagoon

Best Ice Cave Tour in Vatnajokull Glacier Starting from Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Best 7-Day Northern Lights Self Drive Tour Through South Iceland to Jokulsarlon Ice Cave

Northern Lights Tour With Photographer

3-Day Northern Lights Tour of Iceland’s Golden Circle & South Coast with Ice Caving & Glacier Hiking

Small-Group Golden Circle Tour with a Visit to an Ice Cream Farm and Transfer from Reykjavik

Quick Blue Lagoon Shuttle Bus Transfer from Reykjavik

2 Day Ice Cave Tour with South Coast Waterfalls & Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Golden Circle Small Group Minibus Tour with Transfer from Reykjavik

Small Group Tour of Snaefellsnes Peninsula with Transfer from Reykjavik

Northern Lights Super Jeep Tour with a Photographer Guide & Transfer from Reykjavik

Northern Lights Bus Tour with Transfer from Reykjavik

Skaftafell Glacier Hiking Tour on Vatnajokull

Flybus Transfer from Reykjavik Hotels to Keflavik International Airport

Snowmobile Tour on Langjokull Glacier with Transfer from Gullfoss Waterfall

Flybus Transfer from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik

The Golden Circle & the Blue Lagoon Tour with Transfer from Reykjavik

Affordable 3 Hour Northern Lights Bus Tour with Transfer from Reykjavík

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Snorkeling Tour Between Continents in Silfra with Free Underwater Photos & Snacks

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Incredible 2d1n roadtrip with Troll. Our beautiful and capable tour guide never fail to surprises us with stunning scenes (& some extra scenes too!!). it was very pleasant travelling with Troll overall.

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Probably the best part of our time in Iceland. Really recommend. Our host, Inga, was fab - so interesting and knowledgable.

Tina Mowell

Guide to Iceland has been amazing to work with!!! Due to weather conditions a few of our excursions were delayed, but we were always contacted before hand and everything was done to work it out for us. The accommodations they booked were great, and the tour groups they booked us with were also exceptional!! 100% recommend Guide to Iceland Everyone we contacted before the trip and during the trip were quick to respond and wonderful at accommodating all of our needs.

Visiting Iceland in February

Visiting Iceland in February offers a unique blend of winter wonder and vibrant culture, set against some of the most extraordinary landscapes on earth. This is when the island nation is cloaked in a serene layer of snow, and the dance of the northern lights across the dark Arctic sky becomes a nightly spectacle for those fortunate enough to witness it.

During February, the daylight hours stretch longer, providing a more significant window to explore the stark beauty of Iceland's natural wonders. From the glistening ice caves beneath Vatnajokull glacier to the frosted waterfalls along the South Coast, the country's iconic scenery takes on a quiet, majestic beauty.

The chill of the season is the perfect excuse to warm up in the myriad of geothermal pools scattered throughout the country, with the Blue Lagoon being a highlight for many.

Despite the cold, Reykjavik pulses with warmth from its lively festivals, cozy cafes , and the vibrant spirit of the locals. The Winter Lights Festival transforms the capital into a canvas of light and creativity, while Thorrablot celebrations offer a taste of Iceland's rich traditions.

February is an enchanting time to visit for those eager to embrace the cold and experience the unique blend of culture and nature that Iceland provides.

Frequently asked questions

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Iceland in February: Things to See & Do

8 minute read

By Camila Contreras-Langlois

19 January 2022

Come enjoy a winter vacation in Iceland in February. At this time of year, you could hunt for the Northern Lights and see Reykjavík illuminated by the Winter Lights Festival. Or take on thrilling excursions like snorkeling, ice caving, and glacier walking.

February is a great time to enjoy the highlights of Iceland in all its serene winter beauty. Nature is out there for you to see and visit all year long after all. In February it might just be in its winter coat making it a memorable stay.

Get inspiration and find out top local tips to visit with this guide to Iceland in February.

• Browse Iceland winter vacation packages to start planning your February trip.
• Related: Your guide to visiting Iceland in winter .

Is it worth visiting Iceland in February?

Definitely! February is a great month to visit Iceland. The winter months have huge benefits, so don’t be put off by the chilly weather and snowy conditions. If anything, the snow-capped mountains will make for an amazing backdrop to all your Insta photos.  

In February, you’ll be able to visit most of the top highlights that Iceland is known for. That includes volcanoes, hot springs, mountains, ice caves , glaciers , and more.

• Wanna walk inside an ice cave? Choose one of these Iceland adventure packages .

You’ll get the best of both worlds, with enough daylight hours to sightsee and darkness to hunt for the Northern Lights. This phenomenon is the top reason to visit Iceland in winter. If the lights are on your bucket list, you can’t go wrong by visiting in February.

Travel at this time of year and you could also enjoy the healing warmth of geothermal pools and hot springs. Imagine spending your days enjoying adventures outdoors then rewarding yourself with a warming bathing experience at local swimming pools, hot tubs, or spas.

There’s something truly magical about soaking in naturally heated waters while snow falls on your face. And maybe, just maybe, you’ll be lucky enough to look up and see the Northern Lights give you a show to remember too.

Need more reasons to visit Iceland in February? Keep reading to see the kind of activities you could get up to and the best places to add to your itinerary.

• Would you rather visit earlier in January ? The Iceland Tours blog has all the info you’ll need.

Top things to do in Iceland in February

During your February vacation in Iceland, you’ll enjoy a true taste of winter. Picture striking snow-covered volcanoes, steam rising from relaxing hot pools, and dancing lights in the night sky.   

Visit Iceland in February and you could:

• Discover what makes Reykjavík a thriving cultural hub
• See magnificent waterfalls with large icicles and frost
• Experience surreal blue colors on ice cave tours
• Drive a snowmobile or hike atop a mighty glacier
• Spot Icelandic horses amidst the snowy Skagafjörður valley
• Enjoy an evening soak in a hot tub as the snow falls around you
• Chase the beauty of the Northern Lights
• Marvel at ice caps and volcanoes covered in snow
• Take a winter dip to snorkel between the Earth’s tectonic plates
• Walk along black sand beaches and admire impressive sea stacks
• Snap photos of erupting geysers and bubbling hot springs
• Rent a car to drive part of the Ring Road or explore the Golden Circle

Events in Iceland in February

You might think that February is synonymous with Valentine’s Day. And if you’re the romantic type, charming Iceland makes a great Valentine’s Day destination. 

Come enjoy a unique honeymoon or couples’ getaway with your SO in Iceland. Imagine cuddling under Northern Lights at night, spotting romantic waterfalls in the rosy light of day, or treating yourself to a spa experience together. That’ll make for a Valentine’s to remember!

As for local traditions and events, February is a vibrant month to visit Iceland, especially the capital Reykjavík.

Early in the month, check out the free Winter Lights Festival. This event was created to stimulate the cultural life of the city. It celebrates both the darkness of the winter months and the upcoming bright summer season.

Every night during the festival, light installations illuminate the city from 7 p.m. until 10 p.m. This is a fantastic and enchanting way to explore Reykjavík. You’ll only get that chance in February!

As part of the line-up, don’t miss Pool Night and Museum Night. On both these occasions, you’ll get to visit the swimming facilities and many of the capital’s museums for free and with illuminations.

• Check out all Iceland vacation packages to find your next getaway.

Best places to visit in Iceland in February

1. þingvellir national park and nearby attractions.

Location: Southwest Iceland.

Why visit? Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park is a jewel of history and natural beauty in Iceland and so you can’t miss it. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site because it was here that the chiefs of the Viking era met to establish the first Icelandic parliament. That dates back to the 10th century, which is why it’s so impressive and important!

Don’t miss: As Þingvellir is part of the Golden Circle, you won’t want to miss the other 2 main features of the route. That includes the Gullfoss waterfall and the hot geysers of the Haukadalur valley.

• Check out these Golden Circle itineraries .
• Related: Your complete guide to the Golden Circle route .

2. Geothermal spas

Location: All over the country.

Why visit? Traveling to Iceland is not complete without at least one visit to a spa or heated pool. Thankfully they are dotted all over the country and easily accessible. After a day of exploration, put on your bathing suit and unwind in naturally heated waters.

For a budget-friendly alternative to a spa experience, most cities and towns have public pools and hot tubs available for free or for a small fee. You’ll feel just like a local when you visit them.

Don’t miss: The Blue Lagoon spa near Keflavík Airport, the Mývatn Nature Baths in North Iceland, and the Secret Lagoon along the Golden Circle.

• Related: Your guide to hot springs and geothermal pools in Iceland .

3. West Iceland

Location: West Iceland.

Why visit? This region is located within easy reach of Reykjavík, making it an ideal destination in February. With fewer daylight hours than in summer, closer excursions and day trips are ideal in winter.

Here you’ll be able to admire a variety of landscapes and geological formations. You’ll find imposing waterfalls, sweeping lava fields, steep mountains, glaciers, volcanoes, beautiful coastal scenery, and more. 

The stand-out of West Iceland is the Snæfellsnes peninsula. Here you could explore the Snæfellsjökull National Park, spot a mountain famous from Game of Thrones , and admire the second-largest fjord in Iceland, Breiðafjörður Bay.

Don’t miss: The Deildartunguhver hot spring. It’s the biggest of its kind in Iceland by water production per second. It’ll be an impressive sight for sure!

4. Waterfalls of Iceland

Location: All regions of Iceland.

Why visit? Wherever you are in Iceland, you’re probably not far from a scenic waterfall. In February, you could visit the frosty Hraunfossar waterfall near Reykholt, where water flows out from beneath a lava field. Or be awestruck by the top waterfalls of the south coast, Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss. The Gullfoss and Faxi waterfalls are also must-sees along the Golden Circle.

Don’t miss: Everyone has a different favorite waterfall in Iceland, but in winter, Goðafoss, the ‘Waterfall of the Gods’, is particularly impressive. It is located in North Iceland.

• Look up day tours you could add to your itinerary in Iceland.
• Related: Your guide to the best waterfalls in Iceland.

5. Reykjavík

Why visit? Thanks to its cultural highlights and entertaining festival, you can’t miss a stay in Reykjavík in February. Walk underneath sparkling light shows, discover foodie hot spots , enjoy a night out with your friends, or visit one of the many interactive museums of the capital .

Don’t miss: The illuminations every night of the Winter Lights Festival.

• Check out multi-day tours from Reykjavík .

Frequently asked questions about visiting Iceland in February

Read on to find the answers to some of your top questions about visiting Iceland in February:

1. What is the weather like in Iceland in February?

February is still very much winter in Iceland, so you should expect cold conditions and precipitation, whether that’s snow or rain. It might also be very windy. On average there are lows of -1°C (30°F) and highs of 4°C (39°F).

2. What is the average temperature in Iceland in February?

In Reykjavík and in the south of Iceland, average temperatures in February are around 1°C (34°F). In the north of the country, you might experience averages closer to -2°C (28°F).

• Related: How many days do you need in Iceland in winter?

3. Is there snow in Iceland in February?

February is a month when you’re likely to experience precipitation. If the weather is cold enough, this means snow. At least the backdrop of your vacation photos will be spruced up by the snow-capped mountains and falling snowflakes.

4. How are the driving conditions in Iceland in February?

In winter, driving conditions in Iceland can be trickier than you might expect. Even if you’re used to winter driving, Iceland is likely to be different from what you know back home. That said, road trips are doable at this time of year.

Come prepared knowing safety precautions and local road regulations. To enjoy an Iceland self-drive tour, we recommend a shorter trip where you’ll focus on one region, like South Iceland. We also recommend you rent a sturdy vehicle, preferably with a 4×4 drive.

During your trip, you’ll want to check road and weather conditions every day. This way you’ll know what to expect and if you need to change your plans. Icelandic winter can bring high winds, slippery roads, and poor visibility so make sure to be flexible and prepared.

Want to skip the driving? Then pick a multi-day tour from Reykjavík or guided group tour instead. Stay in the capital and enjoy all its fun activities, nightlife, and foodie stops. And you won’t miss out on the beauty of the countryside, as you’ll have day trips and excursions to look forward to.

• Check out self-drive tours of Iceland .
• Related: Your guide to renting a car in Iceland .

5. How many hours of daylight does Iceland get in February?

In February, the days are getting longer and longer, offering a good balance of daylight hours (as opposed to late December and January when the days are very short). 

Between the start and end of the month, there’s a big difference as daylight hours increase. In early February, the sun rises around 10:10 a.m. and sets by 5:15 p.m. By the end of February, sunrise happens by 8:30 a.m. and sunset around 6:45 p.m.

• Blog: Your guide to when to visit Iceland .

6. Can I see the Northern Lights in Iceland in February?

Yes, it’s possible to witness the Northern Lights in Iceland in February. At this time of year, the days are still short and the nights are long. This gives you more chances to see the colors against the dark skies of winter.

The Northern Lights, also called Aurora Borealis, are a natural phenomenon meaning there’s no promise you’ll get to see them.

In order to spot the lights, you need good solar activity, a clear dark sky without clouds, and low light pollution. If all these things align during your trip, you might well be lucky enough to see them. They are incredible to witness and come with bragging rights!

• Browse Northern Lights tours to Iceland .
• Related: Your guide to the Northern Lights in Iceland .

Maximize your chances of seeing the aurora by visiting one of the best places in Iceland to see the Northern Lights .

7. What to pack to visit Iceland in February

Now that you know what weather to expect, here’s what you need to pack for a visit to Iceland in February:  

• Fleece or wool sweaters
• Insulated and waterproof jacket
• Waterproof (or snow) trousers
• Warm gloves, scarf, and hat
• Heated pads for your fingers and toes
• Thermal underwear (long johns) and socks
• Waterproof, lined boots
• Face and lip moisturizer
• Swimwear and towel to visit pools and spas

To summarize, you’ll want to bring plenty of layers to keep warm. The underlayers paired with your waterproof and windproof outerwear will give you the insulation you’ll need to enjoy the great outdoors.

When in doubt, pack all the layers you think you might need. As the conditions can change quickly in Iceland, having those extra sweaters with you means you can adjust easily and always be comfortable.

You can read more about preparing for a winter trip with our blog, tips for Iceland in winter – weather and packing guide .

Planning your trip to Iceland in February

Your February Iceland adventure is waiting just round the corner. Start planning your trip now by picking your favorite places to see and itinerary to match.

Browse the selection of winter packages that Iceland Tours offer, including Northern Lights tours . If you’re comfortable with winter driving, you could take on a self-drive itinerary . Or stay in Reykjavík and travel by bus on multi-day tours .

Once you’ve picked the package that suits you best, book it online. It’s easily done with only a 5% deposit. See you in Iceland this February!

• Northern Lights ,
• Travel advice ,

About the author

Camila first travelled to Iceland in 2018 and it didn’t take long for her to fall in love with its culture, food and scenery. Throughout her life, she’s had the pleasure to live in different cultures and languages and absorb as much as possible from all her travels. You’re most likely to find her reading a good book in a local café or writing about the best spots to visit for top travel agencies.

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The Ultimate Guide to Iceland in February

A strange and peaceful lull has come over Iceland in February . While winter still embraces the island with its picturesque wonderland, the festive season crowds have mostly departed, resulting in fewer extreme factors like traffic and prices. However, there are still plenty of activities to enjoy in Iceland during February.

This is why traveling to Iceland in February holds many benefits for those who want to explore the country on a budget. Here’s what you can look forward to when visiting Iceland in February.

Is February a Good Time to Go to Iceland?

Even though we think February is one of the best times to visit Iceland , everything has its pros and cons - even February in Iceland. So, if you’re still sitting on the fence regarding a visit to the island during February, this handy pros and cons overview might help you make your decision:

The weather might be harsher than during the summer months in Iceland , but it’s the weather conditions that allow for certain activities such as exploring the ice caves , and skiing.

It’s not just the weather conditions that are conducive to some big attractions here on the island. Whilst the dwindling daylight hours can be a challenge when it comes to creating a trip itinerary, it means that the chances of seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland in February are very good .

As we already mentioned, most of the festive crowd has left the island, and you’ll definitely feel the difference when walking down Laugavegur Street, trying to book accommodation, or visiting one of the local attractions where you no longer need to crane your neck to get a glimpse of it.

With no more festive season crowds to charge sky-high rates for , you’ll find that prices have dramatically dropped all over the country.

February in Iceland is a little bit like getting winter on its best behavior. You still get the magical winter wonderland, but without having to struggle through a mere 4 hours of daylight each day like during December and January in Iceland .

A winter wonderland and winter activities can only be created by pretty harsh winter weather , so you’ll need to be prepared for it. It is not the time to plan a trip if you’re someone who brings a blanket along to combat the aircon at the cinema.

Whilst you might be able to see the Northern Lights in Iceland in February, you will not be able to experience another of Iceland’s famous phenomenons; the Midnight Sun . February in Iceland doesn’t have nearly enough daylight hours to make this possible.

A road trip during this time can be challenging for a variety of reasons. The weather can turn the most well-maintained paved road into a bit of a nightmare to navigate. That’s not even to mention the sudden road closures that can derail a trip itinerary if you’re not careful.

And if you’ve got your heart set on exploring certain parts of the island such as the Westfjords or the Highlands, you may be left thoroughly disappointed as many roads in these regions are actually closed during the colder months every year.

If part of your motivation to come and visit Iceland is our wildlife, such as the Puffins or certain migratory species of whale, going to Iceland in February is definitely not a good idea . The Iceland Puffins only call the island home during their breeding season (May to August), and whale season is only between April and September.

The Weather in Iceland in February

As we already touched on, winter weather in Iceland is not to be trifled with, but if you come prepared you’ll be able to enjoy all the things those very conditions make possible. Here’s what you can expect from the various weather elements during your February trip to Iceland:

How Cold is Iceland in February?

Although you’ll still be dealing with cold, winter temperatures, you’ll be glad to know that you won’t have to deal with those below 0 averages all throughout the day anymore. The temperature in Iceland in February ranges between -2 and 3 degrees Celsius , and the average temperature in Iceland in February tends to hover around the 0-degree mark.

Daylight Hours in Iceland in February

Daylight hours are already a far cry from the mere 4 hours one needs to deal with during mid-winter, and you’ll now have at least 7 hours of daylight each day to play around with when planning your trip itinerary.

Does it Snow in Iceland in February?

Absolutely. You are guaranteed to experience snowfall during your trip in February , and you’ll be met with a blanket of snow all across the landscape upon arrival on the island. Whether you’ll need to deal with a blizzard during your time on the island is something that we won’t be able to tell you, though, and you’ll have to keep an eye on the weather forecast.

Rainfall in Iceland During February

February is considered to be one of the wettest months in Iceland, so you’ll need to prep yourself for lots of rain. The average rainfall throughout the month is roughly 83 millimeters, which they’ve worked out equates to about 16 days of rain.

How Windy is it in Iceland in February?

The Iceland winds are pretty legendary when it comes to their strength. They’ve been known to rip car doors straight off their hinges mid-winter. Although February in Iceland is no longer mid-winter, you’ll still need to contend with some pretty hectic winds during this time . The average wind speed in the month of February is 25 kilometers per hour.

The Best Things to Do in Iceland in February

As we already mentioned, you will find plenty of things to do in Iceland in February. In fact, some activities and attractions can only be seen and experienced during the colder winter months. Here are a few things we suggest you add to your trip itinerary:

Visit Our Waterfalls

Iceland has over 10,000 waterfalls, so the odds of you stopping by each and every one is next to nothing. But there are definitely a few that can’t be missed . Visiting the waterfalls during the winter months is quite the experience.

Some still gush over cliffs, but now sport long, glistening tentacles of ice crawling over the cliff edge. Others look like they’ve completely been frozen in time. If you would like to check out the winter waterfall situation here on the island, the following should be on your trip itinerary:

Seljalandsfoss

Take a Dip in a Hot Spring

Hot springs can be found all across the island. This is due to all the volcanic activity heating up the underground water supply.

Whilst some of these hot springs can still be found in their original and natural states, others have been used to create geothermal pools. Obviously, you will find way more amenities at the geothermal pool sites than out there in the wild with the natural hot springs, so, therefore, you’ll be charged an entrance fee.

Even though it might sound counterintuitive, taking a dip in a hot spring is a much-loved activity here on the island during the winter months because of the contrast between the hot water and the intense cold outside . If soaking your stress away in one of these sounds like something you’d like to do, the following hot springs come highly recommended:

The Blue Lagoon

Myvatn Nature Baths

Reykjadalur

Go Horseback Riding

When the roads are icy and get tricky to navigate, probably one of the best ways to explore the island is on horseback. You’ll find horse farms and horseback riding tours all across Iceland , and this is because we actually boast our own breed of horse. They are called Icelandic Horses (very imaginative, we know), and they have become quite famous for their unique looks and abilities.

They are pony-like in stature (even when full-grown) and when you go horseback riding during the wintertime, you’ll see that they’ve got a thick, fluffy coat to protect them against the harsher weather conditions. They are also known for their friendly nature and can perform an extra gait called the tölt.

Explore the Ice Caves

This is one of the activities here on the island that is actually made possible by the colder weather . In fact, most ice caves are closed throughout the rest of the year due to safety concerns (ice melts when it gets warm, remember?)

Exploring an ice cave in Iceland feels almost otherworldly. Walking through glossy, bright blue, yet transparent walls streaked with the black ash of volcanic eruptions of centuries ago is an experience one struggles to describe to people.

Hike a Glacier

Hiking a glacier in Iceland is an activity that can be done all year round, but it definitely has a bit of a different feel during the winter months. It’s definitely one of those activities that make you marvel at the incredible power of nature . Crunching your way across the snow, fully knowing that this is not land, but a gigantic, moving body of ice is a humbling experience. Even more so when hiking Vatnajökull (the largest glacier in all of Europe).

Snorkel or Dive the Silfra Fissure

This is yet another activity here on the island that may seem counterintuitive to do during the winter season, but diving or snorkeling the Silfra Fissure is actually open all year round since you’ll be wearing a dry suit irrespective of the season.

This truly is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, since you’ll have the opportunity to literally lie suspended between two continents . The Silfra Fissure is a tear (fissure) in the earth where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates push apart.

This tear has since filled up with crystal clear glacial water that allows for visibility up to 120 meters! Lying, suspended between the two continents in the water is one of the most peaceful and surreal experiences you’ll ever have.

Just keep in mind that to dive the Silfra, you’ll need to have a valid diving license with you and have sufficient experience underneath your belt. Snorkeling the Silfra is open to all though.

Visit Our Museums

Iceland has some of the most interesting museums you’ll ever find. And whilst it’s always a nice option on the days the weather isn’t treating you very kindly, we have so many amazing museums on the island that we highly recommend you set aside at least a few days to visit some of the most popular ones like:

The Museum of Icelandic Sorcery and Witchcraft

The Saga Museum

Whales of Iceland

The Icelandic Phallological Museum

Turn Yourself Into a Viking

We don’t want you to method-act your way into Icelandic jail by plundering and raiding shops, but the island is probably the best place to live out your Viking dreams.

You can dress up in traditional garb and accessories (including Viking “weapons”) , and have your portrait taken at Mink Studios by one of the most renowned photographers in the country that used to work on the set of Game of Thrones. Or you can go sailing on an authentic Viking ship . Another option is to visit the Viking village , walk the streets with your fellow Vikings and enjoy a real Viking feast.

Explore the Capital City

It’s always a good idea to spend some time in Reykjavik in February and explore everything the capital city has to offer. From shopping in our famous Laugavegur Street to marveling at our amazing architecture such as Hallgrimskirkja , and enjoying some local cuisine in one of the many restaurants around town – Reykjavik is a very enjoyable day out.

And if you would like to combine stuffing your face with delicious food and craft beer whilst exploring the city with a knowledgeable guide by your side, then consider going on the Reykjavik Food Walk – it comes highly recommended.

Skiing is a much-loved activity here on the island, and Iceland actually has quite a name for the sport internationally. We host quite a few international competitions and events that skiers all across the world come to attend, such as the Fossavatnsgangan . But don’t worry, you don’t need to be a pro to hit the slopes, our ski resorts cater to all ages and skill levels.

Take a Stroll on a Black Sand Beach

The black sand beaches in Iceland are also the result of all the volcanic activity here on the island . Taking a stroll on one of these beaches can be quite the experience since you have the ocean, interesting rock formations, huge black basalt cliffs, and much more to discover here.

Some of our most popular black sand beach destinations are Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach with kilometers of outstretched beach and Diamond Beach where hundreds of pieces of ice that wash ashore glisten in the sun like diamonds.

Visit Our National Parks

We have three national parks here in Iceland : Vatnajökull National Park, Thingvellir National Park , and Snæfellsjökull National Park. These parks are not just go-to places for incredible views and majestic Iceland landscapes, but each holds various attractions and activities of their own.

Driving in Iceland in February

As we already mentioned, driving in Iceland in February can be a bit tricky. T he winter weather can really create havoc on the Iceland roads – especially if you’re not used to driving in those types of conditions . It’s also the same weather conditions that can be responsible for sudden road closures, which can really mess up your plans if you don’t have a flexible trip itinerary.

If you intend to take that road trip around the country, you’ll also need to keep in mind that certain roads/routes are closed during the colder months of the year, especially in the Westfjords and the Highlands . We also recommend that you opt for a 4x4 vehicle when driving in Iceland in February, even if you won’t be able to drive around the F-roads in Iceland .

You’ll also need to have a chat with your rental agent about seasonal accessories and gadgets such as snow tires to make driving life a bit easier during your trip. You might also want to look into the various insurance options since you’ll be dealing with additional risks during the winter season.

Icelandic Festivals and Events in February

Icelanders don’t need an excuse to celebrate, and we have plenty of festivities happening in the month of February. Here are a few events you might consider adding to your social calendar whilst on the island:

Winter Lights Festival

The Winter Lights Festival is held in the capital city of Reykjavik. The festival is celebrated at various venues all across the capital , where a variety of light installations lights up the festivities at the sites.

Reykjavik’s Food & Fun Festival

The Reykjavik Food & Fun Festival is fun for the whole family and is a must-attend event if you consider yourself a bit of a foodie. Here you will get the opportunity to get a taste of some of the best local cuisine made by the chefs of the most famous local restaurants.

What to Pack for Iceland in February

We understand that packing clothes for Iceland in February can be nerve-wracking for some. Especially in the wintertime, when it can be tempting to pack your entire wardrobe in an attempt to keep the winter cold at bay. But this won’t be necessary at all.

To help you with what to wear in Iceland in February, and pack sensibly (and within flight restrictions) for your trip, we created this handy packing list for Iceland that you can use as a guide. Just remember to pack the following items for your trip to the island in February:

Waterproof Jacket

Waterproof Pants

Waterproof Hiking Boots

Long Winter Coat

Iceland in February; the Perfect Shoulder Month for a Visit to the Island

Now that you know what Iceland is like in February and what there is to do in Iceland in February, it’s time to start planning that trip. Our recommendation will always be to rent a car in Iceland and properly explore the island via road trip.

If you stick to a main route such as the Golden Circle, the road conditions will be some of the best you’ll find during the winter season, and you’ll get to experience some of the most popular attractions and activities on the island. But whichever direction you decide to take, February is the perfect time to have a budget-friendly trip through our winter wonderland.

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WHAT TO DO IN ICELAND IN FEBRUARY AND MARCH?

If you want to experience a real nordic winter, visit iceland in february or march. there is just something about the darkness, the harsh weather conditions and the atmosphere that makes it different from other months. reykjavík wakes up from it’s christmas hangover with numerous events happening during the two months, with the winter lights festival kicking it off. it’s also rumoured to be the best month to see the northern lights. ten points for that. here is a list of what keeps us going during the coldest, and shortest, months of the year, festivals in february & march , winter lights festival february 6th-8th, 2020, the winter lights festival will be held for the 20th time in iceland’s capital reykjavík this coming february. it’s an annual event celebrating the winter and the slowly growing sun light after a long period of darkness. the program offers a unique mixture of art and industry, environment and history, sports and culture with participation of the major museums, geothermal pools and ski resorts and provides entertainment for reykjavík’s locals and guests alike. this year the magnificent glaciers are in the forefront. the opening act is  glacier requiem broadcasting the melting glaciers on hallgrímskirkja church, followed by kyrie eleison exhibition at ásmundasalur  with the exhibition shrinking glaciers in their smallest form amongst many other events and installations..

Food & Fun Festival March 4th – 8th, 2020

Held for the 19th time this year, the local cuisine scene comes alive at the food & fun festival during the first few days in march where renowned chefs from either sides of the atlantic pair up with reykjavik’s best restaurants in the city. together, they will prepare a menu which captivates the palate of the guests with the freshness of icelandic ingredients., design march march 25th – 29th, 2020, design march is reykjavíks annual design festival and takes place for the 12th time this march. the entire city is transformed into a large design venue, with exhibitions varying from architecture, product design, experience design and fashion design. design talks kick starts the festival with talks from world renowned designers and local thinkers that sets the scene for the days that follow. see you at design march.

CELEBRATE ICELANDIC FOOD TRADITIONS

February holds a series of interesting, icelandic, food traditions. have a taste of þorramatur, an old custom left behind by the norse pagan tradition, but still interesting and luscious. you’ve probably heard about some of the traditional icelandic food; sheep’s head, fermented shark and dried fish. doesn’t sound too appetising does it but there are some good bites in there. dried fish is one of my favourites, and the slices of smoked lamb, called hangikjöt, is delicious on flat bread.  february 13th is the day of bean stew and salted meat, known as sprengidagur, or bursting day. february 16th marks bolludagur, or cream puff day. personal favourite of mine. make your way to the nearest bakery and choose one (or more) from the many incredible flavours finally something that we can all agree is delicious.

TOURS TO LOOK INTO DOING IN FEBRUARY & MARCH

Embark on a glacier adventure out of the city, february is most often the coldest month out of the year in iceland, giving great conditions for ice cave exploration as well as northern lights sighting. march is the last month of the ice cave season in winter so make sure to step out of the city for a couple of days to witness the incredible ice caves that are unique each year., join us for a tour that can allow you to tick off all the incredible things the south coast can offer; majestic waterfalls, black sand beaches with it’s big and powerful waves, incredible gorges with impossible to pronounce names. take time to explore this enormous jökulsárlón glacier lagoon and the icebergs which float around here glistening in the winter sun. seals can often be spotted swimming amongst the icebergs. from there we make our way over to the diamond beach, where the icebergs from the lagoon flow with the tide out to the ocean and wash up on the shores of the black sand beach., it is here by the glacier lagoon that we meet with our partners from local guide of vatnajökull who are taking us to the real highlight of the trip, our ice cave adventure . local guide of vatnajökull get us to a remote part of the glacier in their amazing super jeeps, so we can access one of the ice caves in the region. from where their rugged super jeeps take us it is only a short walk to witness the blues and textures of these natural works of art..

Looking forward to seeing you in Iceland this coming February!

Hi I’m Dagný Björg , sales manager of Hidden Iceland who sometimes likes to look up from your tour requests and type up a helpful blogpost to answer some of your frequently asked questions!

Do you have anything g on April? Can you please send me April schedule? Thanks

Hi Kim, we do have some wonderful options in April too. You can check out our scheduled small group tours or if you are interested in our private packages we can provide a bespoke package for you. You can fill out the form at the bottom of either page and our Travel Experts will be able to come up with something great for you.

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Iceland in February

• Months in Iceland
• August 23, 2022

Just about any other time of the year is a great time to visit Iceland. However, February is particularly magical. In February, much of the country is covered with beautiful snow, and the weather is milder than you think. The promise of longer days and the crisp winter air makes February an extremely appealing time for tourists and locals alike. Even if the weather is often consistently cold, there are enough natural hot pots and hot tubs to thaw you out. The exceptional landscapes will also take your breath away and prevent you from feeling cold.

February Weather Can Be Unpredictable

February is one of the coldest months in Iceland, with an average temperature of 33.8 F in Reykjavik. Temperatures reach an average high of 37 degrees F. However, you probably know about the cold temperatures, and we don’t need to warn you about them. After all, you are visiting Iceland during winter; you already know that you should pack cold-weather gear.

What most people do not know is that February weather can be highly unpredictable and unreliable. The chance of precipitation is quite high and can come in different forms. You should be prepared for rain, snow, sleet, and some sunshine! You should also expect storms, strong winds, and sometimes blizzards with extreme temperature variations. 

Most tourists expect rain and snow, but the winds catch them by surprise. You are likely to experience strong winds at any time, with the wind speeds reaching up to 15 miles per hour. When packing for an  Iceland tour in February , you should prepare for every type of weather because you never know what to expect. The weather changes regularly throughout the day. However, provided you know what to expect and prepare accordingly, you will enjoy your tour no matter the weather conditions. 

Daylight Hours Start Getting Longer in February

Even if February is one of the coldest months in Iceland, the daylight hours start to get longer again. In Iceland, winters may be rough, with persistent darkness. However, in February, the island starts recording around 6 minutes of sunshine daily. The sun will still rise late and set early. However, there is a noticeable difference between February and several months that precede it. Having more hours of daylight means more time to explore the natural landscape of the island. 

You are Highly Likely to See the Northern Lights in February

February is probably the best time to see the elusive Northern Lights. Our  Northern Lights tours  will take you right to the heart of it, enabling you to witness this amazing natural phenomenon. The Northern Lights have a higher likelihood of gracing the skies from September to April. However, even as you go hunting for the Northern lights, you should remember that nature doesn’t always give us what we desire. If you don’t see the northern lights, it’s not your fault or your guide’s fault; that’s just the will of nature. 

To increase your chances of seeing the Northern lights, you should seek darker skies, away from the city lights. Even if you can still see the Northern Lights in Reykjavik, the probability increases as you venture further out. 

When heading out to search for the Northern Lights, you can opt for a  self-drive tour  that allows you more control of your schedule and timeline. You can also take a guided tour, which makes your search easier since most work is done for you.

Best Things to Do and See in Iceland in February

Provided you are prepared for the low temperatures; you will find plenty of things to see and do in Iceland in February. You can only enjoy certain activities in winter, meaning that this could be the best time to enjoy activities like ice caving. Here are some of the recommendations to add to your bucket list when touring Iceland in winter:

Iceland boasts some of the world’s most magnificent ice caves. Ice caves are formed in the summer when melting ice forms glacial rivers, which carve through the interior of glaciers. You can enter the ice caves in winter. During winter, the caves are frozen, solid, and stable to pose fewer risks. As you walk through a glacier to explore the ice caves, you will behold dazzling hues of icy blue. The ice cave season lasts from November to March, which makes February an excellent month to tour Iceland. 

Glacier Hiking

You can hike on the Icelandic glaciers at any time of the year, but February offers a breath-taking experience. Ice covers the glaciers, sparkling and shimmering in the sunlight, and the best part is that the ice is electric blue in color. You can particularly enjoy hiking the Svinafellsjokull glacier and the Solheimajokull glacier . It’s best to have a local guide to help you discover the fantastic geology.

Whale Watching

In February, you can join a whale-watching trip to give you a magnificent glimpse of Iceland’s aquatic life. The waters in Iceland are home to more than 20 marine species; many creatures remain in the Icelandic waters in winter. You will have an excellent chance to see pilot whales, beaked whales, and orcas and play with the white-beaked dolphins.

Other things to do during a  February Iceland tour  are:

• Visiting the South Coast
• Exploring the Golden Circle
• Diving and snorkeling between continents
• Lava caving
• Snowmobiling on a glacier
• Touring the Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Preparation is key when planning a tour of Iceland in February. If you are planning a self-drive tour, you should keep certain things in mind before you head out on the icy, snowy roads. First, you should constantly check the road conditions and road closures. If you choose to rent a car, ensure that the car comes with winter-proof tires. 

When visiting Iceland in February, you should not forget to pack a swimsuit. You have to take advantage of all the hot tubs and hot springs available in Iceland. The hot tubs and hot springs are available at any time of the year. However, the cold weather in February makes a hot soak particularly appealing. There is nothing as epic as thawing out in the warm hot pots as thin films of snow drape around you. The geothermally heated hot springs are an excellent remote alternative to the public hot tubs.

Adventure awaits you in Iceland; you can barely exhaust the vast tourist activities.

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Visit Iceland in February

The days are short, and the nights are long, which makes a fun reason to visit Iceland in February! It can get a little cold, which you can handle with the proper clothing (so maybe it is time for some shopping). And there is usually plenty of snow, so you can immerse yourself in a true Iceland experience!

Your Friend in Reykjavik wants you to dress in layers and join us for February frolics across our favorite city! We can show you around and share tips on what to do, indoors and out, in Iceland!

February Weather in Iceland

When we said before that the weather gets a little cold, we were not kidding. After all , it is still winter! The average temperature is around 32-34°F (0-1°C), and there is a good chance that it will rain or snow, so you should pack appropriately. But with the white snow comes reflective light to help brighten the long nights! 

Northern Lights and short days for February

February puts us well into winter in Iceland, but the extremely short days are getting a little longer. With sunsets around 5 pm and sunrises around 10 am, there’s plenty of time to get out and catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights. We take advantage of these long nights for exciting festivals, which we will tell you about below, and there is still enough daylight for outdoor activities like whale watching or hiking. Or you may want to head indoors every once in a while on a food tour of Reykjavik !

Unique outdoor fun in Iceland in February

In February, our beautiful Reykjavik Pond often freezes over. This means it’s time for some ice skating or maybe even a game of ice hockey! Or you could head to the harbor area for some whale watching. You can do this any time of the year, but in February, sightings of minke whales, orcas, and pilot whales are more common. We recommend you check out our combo City Walk and Whale Watching tour !

For those looking for more natural outdoorsy adventures, you may want to visit Vatnajokull National Park . Located along Iceland’s southeast coast, this massive park offers hiking, boating, and other activities, including checking out the Svartifoss waterfall pouring down in the snow; if you want a truly “immersive” Icelandic experience, head to one of our community swimming pools !

February festivals light up Iceland

If you plan on coming at the beginning of February, you may be able to catch the end of the Reykjavík International Games, where athletes from around the world converge to compete in such sports as swimming and karate, as well as darts and CrossFit . Around the same time, the Reykjavík Winter Lights Festival brightens up the capital with brilliant light installations, art walks, and other activities. If you are heading to the east coast of Iceland, the town of Seyðisfjörður has a similar festival, Art in the Light , with artists from all over creating art with light across the landscape.

For those visiting Iceland towards the end of the month when Lent falls in February/March, you can dig into cream buns for our version of Carnival , Bun Day! Then there is more feasting until Ash Wednesday, which may remind many of Halloween as the kids (young and old) dress up in costumes and beg for candy fo r Öskudagur ! Read all about those three days here .

What to pack for your Iceland visit in February

It will probably be cold. Or rain. Then again, it may snow. There will be sun sometimes. There are a lot of possibilities to prepare for, so prepping with clothing that you can layer is your best bet! Start with some thermal underwear and work your way to a weather-proof coat or jacket. Also, comfy shoes are always vital — more hiking all-weather types if you plan on heading out of the city. Don’t forget swimwear if you want to dip in a thermal pool! And there are essential sunglasses, lip balm, and moisturizers to protect from the sun and cold. 

Let Your Friend in Reykjavik show you our February fun!

Your Friend in Reykjavik is ready and waiting to show you the bright nights and stunning days of Reykjavik on one of our many walking tours. We have a wide range of walks, from folklore to food, where our knowledgeable and friendly guides will show you the highlights and hidden gems of our hometown. Have a specific experience in mind? We also have private walking tours of Reykjavik, which we can personalize to your schedule. Ready to plan your trip to Reykjavik? Call us today!

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Iceland in February: The Self-Drive Travel Guide

Every month in Iceland has its own unique beauty and attractions, but Iceland in February is a very special time that offers the ability to enjoy winter activities. But it also marks the beginning of the transition from the winter to the spring seasons. 

If you’re considering visiting Iceland in February, there are some things that you’ll want to know first so you can plan for your trip effectively. In this self-drive travel guide to Iceland in February, we will cover the weather, road and driving conditions, the best vehicles and routes to take and the best attractions to visit during this time of year! 

• Related links: Iceland in January ; Best winter rental cars in Iceland

Table of content

• Weather in February Iceland: average temperature, hours of daylight and more
• What to wear in Iceland in February? A brief travel packing list
• What are the road conditions like in Iceland in February?
• What is the best rental car for a road trip in Iceland in February?
• Is February a good time to go to Iceland?
• Recommended things to do and unique activities in Iceland in February

Best Festivals and Festivities in Iceland in February 

• What does Iceland in February look like?

What is the weather like in Iceland in February? 

February in Iceland is still considered part of the winter season, so there is likely going to be snow covering the ground and temperatures around zero degrees or slightly less. You can also expect other conditions that are typical of winter in Iceland, including strong winds and rapidly changing weather conditions. 

It’s also one of the wettest periods in Iceland, recording rainfall of up to 83 millimetres as the ice caps start to melt to usher in the Icelandic spring. The chance of rainfall during February stands at an average of 78% throughout. 

The average temperature and weather in Iceland in February 

The average temperature during February tends to fluctuate but is usually around -3 and +3°C (26-34° Fahrenheit.

The hours of daylight

The amount of daylight varies throughout February, from seven hours at the start of the month to 10 hours of sunlight at the end of the month. 

Is Iceland cold in February? 

Even by Iceland’s standard, February can be considered a cold month, with snow and strong winds often making it feel chillier than the stated temperature. That is why it’s important that you’re well prepared for unexpected changes in weather when visiting Iceland in February.

What to wear in Iceland in February? A travel packing list

Some of the most important you’ll want to pack for your trip to Iceland in February include:

• Warm, windproof and waterproof jacket 
• Winter boots
• Hats, gloves, and scarves
• Thermal base layer 
• Wool sweaters
• Bathing suits for visiting hot springs
• Sunglasses to avoid snow reflecting light

For more packing tips for visiting Iceland in February and other months of the year, check out our entire Iceland packing list .

What are the road conditions like in Iceland in February? 

Road conditions in Iceland are usually pretty manageable on the tarred roads of the Ring Road and Golden Circle . There will still be some wetness due to the rain and snow, but nothing that an experienced driver cannot handle. However, most of the gravel roads leading off the main route remain challenging and can be unsafe to even the most skilled drivers. 

• Highlands and F-roads are completely shut off to motorists in February, and fjord regions will be extremely difficult to drive on due to the dense snow experienced during that time of the year. They aren’t well-maintained during the winter, so snow will typically pile up fast. 
• If you don’t have previous experience driving in winter conditions or if it’s your first time driving in Iceland, then it would be best if you stay on the Golden Circle path and visit attractions around the island via the Ring Road since both are paved and easier to drive on during February in Iceland. Avoid the fjords area, especially if you don’t have experience driving in winter conditions.
• The South Coast and Snaefellsnes area are relatively easy to drive through, but caution is still needed because the roads might still be snowy and slippery.
• It’s essential to have a driver who is experienced in handling winter road conditions as they can be more tricky and challenging to drive. If you’re uncertain about your winter driving skills, you have to be very strategic with the rental car you choose to ensure it has great handling and is well-equipped for the roads.

What is the best rental car for a road trip in Iceland in February: Should I rent a car?

For a self-drive tour of Iceland in February, the best car to rent is always a 4WD vehicle , which will help your group to drive to your chosen attractions safely, and effectively navigate the potentially slippery roads. Other aspects to take into consideration when choosing your Iceland rental include the size of your group and the amount of luggage you’ll be bringing.

For smaller groups with minimal luggage, an economy or compact vehicle will be suitable. Larger groups of three to four people will do better in a mid-size or intermediate car, while even groups of more than four will need at least a full-size vehicle when visiting Iceland in February.

Self-drive tours are hands down the best way to get around during your trip to Iceland, and also the most fun. But you need to remember that winter months come with some driving challenges. You must assess your group’s driving skills and be sure you can maneuver safely in the winter elements.

Is February a good time to go to Iceland? 

February is a fantastic month to visit Iceland, and here are a few of the reasons why:

• The cost of visiting will be much lower compared to the summer months when there are more visitors and a highly demand for everything from tours to hotels.
• The cold in Iceland is milder than the core winter months between November and January. 
• February is part of winter in Iceland, which means there will be long nights and a great chance of seeing the Northern lights. 
• You can enjoy many of Iceland’s famous winter festivals. 
• You will get to see Iceland’s winter attractions, including glaciers and hotsprings.

Recommended things to do in Iceland in February

There are so many fun things to do while on a self-driving tour of Iceland in February. There’s everything from festivals to hiking, and even seeing one of the wonders of the world, February in Iceland offers a truly unforgettable experience that promises both culture and wonder. 

1.See northern lights in Iceland

Although it isn’t guaranteed to see the aurora borealis in any month, February gives you a better chance than most months. So, when visiting Iceland in February, you could get very lucky!

You may have the opportunity to see one of the most beautiful wonders of the world, which looks like a million fireflies taking flight in a perfectly rehearsed dance routine. The aurora borealis is one of the main reasons that tourists are attracted to Iceland, and February’s dark and long winter nights provide a great chance to experience the phenomenon.

You will have the best chance of seeing the aurora borealis on a clear night, far from cities that have a lot of glare from streetlights and houses. If you’re interested in seeing the northern lights, check out our post about aurora in Iceland that features tips for the best places to see them. 

2. Glacier hiking

Glacier hiking is a favourite pastime for tourists who visit Iceland in February, and this should come as no surprise since Iceland is home to some of the most breathtaking glaciers in the world. And these glaciers become even more captivating in the winter months. Although glaciers can be seen all year, their allure in February stems from the bright blue colour of ice caps in midwinter, which looks almost otherworldly. 

Southern Iceland is especially known for featuring some of Iceland’s best glaciers, and the glaciers in Solheimajokull and Svinafellsjokull areas are the most famous in the country. Tours around Iceland’s glaciers can be magical and educational, plus you’ll learn a lot about Iceland’s geology while admiring its effects firsthand on tours like these. 

Recommended Iceland glacier hiking tours:

3. join an ice cave tour and do the glacier blue ice caving (winter months limited activity).

Something you need to check out while visiting Iceland’s glaciers are the natural blue ice caves which form as a result of glacial melt during the summer months. When the melt refreezes in the winter, it leaves behind beautiful blue ice caves, which you can explore on a guided tour with a professional guide.

These caves are only safe to explore in the winter, as the temperature stays cold enough to keep them frozen solid, with less risk of collapse. That said, because there is some rainfall during February, it’s important to go with a guide who is familiar with the caves and areas where there are cracks or where the ice is weakening. 

4. Visit the Blue Lagoon and other hot springs / go to the public swimming pools like a local 

It might sound funny to suggest a dip in the pool during winter as an enjoyable activity, but a swim in the hot springs during winter months can be an incredibly enjoyable experience. When visiting Iceland in February, you can head to one of Iceland’s geothermal pools and enjoy a warm, relaxing soak to take your mind off the chilly temperatures around you.

Conversing and hanging out in the pools in Iceland has been a popular pastime for the locals for many years, so visiting the pools and springs gives you the opportunity to participate in a local cultural activity. 

The most famous geothermal spa and pool in Iceland can be found just outside the city’s capital Reykjavík. It’s known as the Blue Lagoon, and it attracts tons of tourists all year round. It’s located just a few minutes from the KEF airport and offers a silica mud mask treatment that has quickly become a staple in Icelandic tourist culture.

You can also visit the Sky Lagoon, another of Iceland’s natural treasures, the Vök Baths, in East Iceland, and the Secret Lagoon, which is Iceland’s oldest geothermal bath. The Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Bath even comes with an underground bakery. If you prefer something a bit more off the grid, Iceland also provides a number of less popular hot springs and public swimming pools where you can swim like a local and enjoy an authentic Icelandic experience. 

5. Icelandic horse riding 

Icelandic horses are unique to the region, and their luscious manes and stout bodies are unlike anything horses you’ll see elsewhere. February presents a great opportunity to see them with the extra layer of their beautiful winter coats and the opportunity to take an unforgettable ride on one of them. Icelandic horses are famously friendly, intelligent and curious animals that can also comfortably brave the lowest temperatures in the country’s winter, so they are often seen socializing and playing in the snow in February. 

There’s a very high chance you will enjoy this uniquely Icelandic experience of riding the same horses believed to have been used by Viking warriors in the country’s famous past. There are many horse-riding tours that you can take while in Iceland, and you can find some of them here.

Recommended horse riding tours:

There are several fun festivals and festivities that occur in Iceland in February, and luckily, most of them involve food! They offer tourists the chance to enjoy local cuisine at its finest and also immerse themselves in Icelandic history and culture. 

When visiting Iceland in February, you can enjoy the Þorrablót or Thorrablot festival , which is in tribute to the Norse god Thor. The festival involves singing, dancing, and feasting on traditional Viking and Icelandic meals. Fair warning though, some of the meals, like fermented shark and sheep’s head, can be an acquired taste. 

You can also experience the winter lights festival in Reykjavik. For three days, the city is engulfed by a magical display of lights, including the iconic Hallgrímskirkja church and the Harpa Concert Hall, which are lit up in tons of different colours.

Other food-related festivals in February in Iceland include the Food and Fun Festival , which attracts chefs from all over the world to come in to show their culinary skills, as well as the Bun day or Bolludagur when Iceland goes crazy for bun-based treats. 

And finally, Sprengidagur , which translates to ‘Bursting Day’ in English, is the day before Lent when Icelanders attempt to eat the traditional Saltkjot & Baunir or salted lamb meat and peas until they literally burst. 

Picture of Iceland in February

Enjoy this gorgeous view of Iceland in the month of February.

Visiting Iceland in February

From seeing the Northern Lights and visiting the incredible blue ice caves to riding an authentic Icelandic horse in winter, swimming in the hot springs , and attending one of the country’s iconic festivals, Iceland in February will provide you with an adventure of a lifetime. 

Before you visit, don’t forget to take appropriate precautions as regards your safety by booking your rental vehicle with Hertz online, and in advance. You’ll be able to pick up your rental car directly from the airport, making it easy and stress-free so you can be on your way to your first destination! 

Rent a car for your February Iceland road trip

Hyundai Tucson Plug-in Hybrid or similar | Automatic | 4×4

Ifai | group: n3 (ifai).

• Airconditioning

This vehicle is NOT allowed in the highlands F-roads. NOTE: Allowed on roads no.35 and 550. You must be 23 years of age to drive this vehicle.

Additional Features

• 3 Large Luggage
• 4 Wheel Drive
• 46 C0 2  g/km
• Adjustable Steering
• Cruise Control
• Electronic Stability Control
• Power Steering
• Power Windows
• Remote Locking

Kia Sorento Plug-in Hybrid or similar | Automatic | 4×4

Sfdi | group: o6 (sfdi).

This vehicle is NOT allowed in the highlands F-roads. NOTE: Allowed on-road no.35 and 550. You must be 23 years of age to drive this vehicle.

• 4 Large Luggage
• 38 C0 2  g/km

Land Rover Defender Plug-in Hybrid or similar | Automatic | 4×4

Pfai | group: l6 (pfai).

Suitable for highlands, Please read the Terms & Conditions. You must be 25 years of age to drive this vehicle.

• 77 C0 2  g/km

Tesla Model Y or similar | Automatic | 4×4

Ugdc | group: v1 (ugdc).

This vehicle is NOT allowed in the highlands F-roads. You must be 23 years of age to drive this vehicle.

• Traction Control

5 seats Toyota Land Cruiser or similar| Automatic | 4×4

Ffar | group: i (ffar).

Suitable for the highlands. Please read Terms & Conditions. You must be 23 years of age to drive this vehicle.

• 5 Large Luggage
• Petrol or Diesel
• 251 C0 2  g/km

KIA Sorento or similar | Automatic | 4×4

Sfan | group: o2 (sfan).

• 164 C0 2  g/km

Manage Booking

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Belching Volcano and Flowing Lava Dent Tourism in Icelandic Region

In a country that relies heavily on visitors, hotels faced repeated evacuations, and one resort was temporarily shut.

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By Emma Bubola

Reporting from London

The Blue Lagoon resort in the south of Iceland is a scenic network of steaming azure pools surrounded by dark rocks, where tourists dip in the geothermal water, have spa treatments and enjoy what the resort advertises as “a universe of radiant well-being.”

But last week, a stream of radiant lava burst from a crater a few miles from the resort, forcing it to evacuate hundreds of guests, in yet another eruption of a volcano system in the Reykjanes Peninsula that had been dormant for 800 years.

The outbursts began in 2021, and the eruptions and earthquakes in the peninsula have destroyed some houses and forced villagers from their homes. One construction worker went missing in the town of Grindavik after falling down a crack caused by an earthquake.

The effects of the volcanic eruptions have rippled out beyond the peninsula, disrupting the tourism operations of a country that relies heavily on visitors.

Arnar Már Ólafsson, director general of the Icelandic Tourist Board, said that when a looming volcanic eruption led to the evacuation of Grindavik in November, it resulted in global anxiety that brought a drop in tourists.

“A spouting volcano doesn’t sound very inviting,” he said.

Icelandair, the country’s national airline, said it also saw a “significant negative impact on bookings” in the last months of 2023. And the low-cost Icelandic airline Play said that news of the eruption “cooled demand for Iceland as a destination.”

The tourism board did not release an estimate for the financial losses, and the airlines, while saying they experienced significantly slowed sales, did not quantify them.

Airline officials and the tourism board director stated emphatically in interviews and in the national news media that the reaction was unwarranted because the eruptions did not represent a direct threat to visitors or flights. They accused the news media of “alarmism.”

“In the international press, it just looks as if Iceland is ruined,” Birgir Jónsson, then Play’s chief executive, said in an interview published in December by a financial magazine.

Tourists used to flock to the Reykjanes Peninsula to watch the northern lights or bathe in the waters of the Blue Lagoon resort. But since the November earthquakes, the Blue Lagoon has had to close for some days . It said in a statement on Wednesday that it had also shut down from March 16 until at least Thursday and would continue to follow the authorities’ safety guidelines.

The Northern Light Inn, a family-run hotel, has also had to evacuate its guests four times since January and close for weeks, said Fridrik Einarsson, the inn’s owner. Now, they are compensating for the drop in tourists by serving lunches to the construction workers building protection walls in the area.

“If this continues for a long period of time, it will eventually be very, very challenging for us ,” Mr. Einarsson said.

Mr. Ólafsson said that any threat to the Blue Lagoon geothermal resort undermined a key component of Iceland’s tourism sector.

“Without the Blue Lagoon, it would be a different destination,” he said, “like Egypt without the pyramids or Paris without the Eiffel Tower.”

The resort is particularly popular with visitors from the United States, and every year, hundreds of thousands of people visit the spa, according to the Blue Lagoon’s website. The spa is now protected by barriers.

The resort owes its existence to the geothermal energy generated by the volcanic system, which heats up its waters. But that same system is also now its main threat.

That paradox, many say, is at the heart of Iceland’s identity as an adventure travel destination where tourists seek out untamed nature in the form of waterfalls, glaciers and hot springs. And 130 volcanoes.

During the volcanic eruptions last year, as tourists flocked to sites where they could see the glowing river of lava, the government had to warn people to steer clear of the area since the situation could turn dangerous.

Now, Icelandic tourism operators say, the anxiety has eased somewhat, and tourism demand has gone up again since January. But for those remaining in the peninsula, there seems to be no immediate end in sight to the disruption of their businesses.

Last week, as Mr. Einarsson, the inn owner, evacuated his guests to another hotel because of the volcanic eruption, he said they could see lava from the parking lot.

“It’s quite a magnificent experience, to see a volcano,” he said.

Mr. Einarsson called his relationship to volcanoes a “tricky love and hate situation.”

On one hand, he said, “people are understandably concerned to stay in a hotel next to an eruption site.” On the other, he said, people come to Iceland for its nature, and the nature would not be the same without the country’s volcanoes.

“And I would not be in the business,” he said.

Egill Bjarnason contributed reporting from Gran Canaria, Spain.

Emma Bubola is a Times reporter based in London, covering news across Europe and around the world. More about Emma Bubola

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