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Visiting Iceland in January
Iceland in January boasts enchanting landscapes. Long nights illuminated by the mesmerizing northern lights and pristine snow-covered landscapes under the vast Arctic sky paint a picture of ethereal beauty.
This month truly showcases why Iceland is often called the "land of ice and fire". You can soak in warm geothermal waters surrounded by a winter wonderland.
January provides a tranquil and less crowded experience for visitors. Daylight is limited to just 4-5 hours, typically from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., but these shorter days are compensated by extended nights, increasing the chance of spotting the northern lights.
Major attractions like the Golden Circle driving route, Blue Lagoon geothermal spa, and the South Coast remain sought-after destinations, while specialized winter tours, such as ice-caving in Vatnajokull National Park, become a highlight for many.
Top January Day Tours in Iceland
What are the top January day tours in Iceland? Here are three of the best ones to consider:
The Golden Circle Tour from Reykjavik
Rated 9.6 out of 10 stars by 570 travelers, this day tour lets you explore Iceland's famous Golden Circle on a minibus. Starting with a hotel pickup in Reykjavik, you’ll visit iconic attractions like Gullfoss waterfall, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Thingvellir National Park. Along the way, enjoy stops at hidden gems such as Faxi waterfall and Kerid volcanic crater while learning about Icelandic culture through music and traditional food tastings.
The Snaefellsnes Peninsula Tour from Reykjavik
Discover the stunning Snaefellsnes peninsula, often called "Iceland in Miniature," on this small-group minibus tour with a transfer from Reykjavik. Rated 9.6 out of 10 stars by over 470 travelers, this tour includes stops at the majestic Snaefellsjokull glacier, charming villages like Arnarstapi, the black beach of Djupalonssandur, and the iconic Kirkjufell mountain.
The Crystal Blue Ice Cave Tour in Vatnajokull Glacier - Starting from Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon
With an impressive rating of 9 out of 10 stars from 1,590 travelers, this tour takes you on an unforgettable journey into the stunning Crystal Ice Cave within Vatnajokull National Park, starting at the iconic Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon. You’ll ride a super jeep through dramatic landscapes to Breidmerkurjokull glacier, where you'll explore shimmering blue ice formations with an expert guide.
Top Cheapest January Day Tours in Iceland
Are you looking to explore Iceland’s natural wonders while on a budget? Here are some of the best January day tours in Iceland that won’t break the bank:
The Vatnshellir Cave Tour
Discover the 8,000-year-old Vatnshellir lava cave on this guided 50-minute tour near the stunning Snaefellsjokull glacier. For 61 USD, you will descend into this colorful underground wonder filled with vivid lava formations, winding chambers, and a moment of complete darkness for an unforgettable experience. This tour scored 9.6 out of 10 stars from 88 travelers.
Small-Group Golden Circle Minibus Tour from Reykjavik with Bruarfoss Waterfall & Kerid Crater
Discover Iceland's Golden Circle on this full-day small-group tour featuring highlights like Thingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall. Enjoy bonus stops at Bruarfoss waterfall, known for its vivid blue waters, and the colorful Kerid volcanic crater. Rated 9.6 out of 10 stars by over 480 travelers, this tour costs 99 USD.
Glacier Hiking Tour on Solheimajokull
Embark on an exhilarating hike up Solheimajokull glacier, one of southern Iceland’s most majestic natural wonders. Guided by a highly trained expert, you'll explore intricate ice formations, deep blue centuries-old ice, and dramatic glacier canyons while learning about the glacier’s history and its connection to Myrdalsjokull. This hiking tour costs 109 USD with a rating of 9.6 out of 10 stars from 194 travelers.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best January vacation package in Iceland?
The second example of a top-rated package tour in January in Iceland is a two-day ice caving tour that provides travelers with limited time a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the tunnels beneath Europe’s largest glacier and sites such as the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon. This tour has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from over 380 travelers. You can book this package for approximately 582 USD.
Another best January vacation package in Iceland covers five days and takes you around the best South Coast and Golden Circle attractions, with a visit to the famous Blue Lagoon, the other-worldly Jokulsarlon glacial lagoon, and the highly active Geysir geothermal area. The small-group experience costs around 1,058 USD and has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 480 reviews.
What is the cheapest January tour package in Iceland?
Another cheap January tour package in Iceland is a six-day winter self-drive covering the attractions of the five-day vacation at a slower pace, providing extra time on the breathtaking South Coast. The journey starts at around 737 USD, and travelers can rest assured knowing that all their trip details are covered. This excursion has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from over 120 travelers.
Another cheapest January tour package in Iceland is a two-day trip along the south, with glacier hiking, ice-caving adventures, and northern lights hunting included in the price. The cost is around 590 USD, and the tour has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from over 40 reviews.
Is it worth it to visit Iceland in January?
Skiing is popular during January, as is dog sledding, which can be enjoyed on tours such as this two-hour trip in the landscape of Lake Myvatn and on packages such as this 11-day circumnavigation of Iceland's Ring Road. Due to the festive season being over, January is one of Iceland's quieter months, allowing you to enjoy your holiday without the crowds.
Can you see the northern lights in January in Iceland?
This four-hour super jeep tour that takes you out into the rugged wilderness and includes professional photos is a prime example. Vacation packages and self-drive tours will take you out into the countryside for several consecutive nights, maximizing your opportunities.
This 10-day January package around the whole country will provide you with nine chances to marvel over the aurora borealis in locations such as the rugged Eastfjords, the other-worldly Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, the unique Snaefellsnes Peninsula, and the beautiful Lake Myvatn.
What is there to do in Iceland in January?
What wildlife can you expect to see in Iceland during January?
What are the best waterfalls to visit in January in Iceland?
Can I go whale watching in January in Iceland?
Are restaurants and accommodations readily available in rural areas in January?
How reliable is public transportation in Iceland in January?
What is the weather like in Iceland in January?
What should I pack for a January trip to Iceland?
Are Iceland's roads safe for driving in January?
Some travelers prefer to book tours and vacation packages with professional local drivers so they don't need to worry about driving in harsh winter conditions.
Do I need a four-wheel drive vehicle to travel around Iceland in January?
How many hours of daylight are there in Iceland in January?
Are the geothermal pools and hot springs accessible in January?
Is January a crowded month for tourism in Iceland?
What traditional or cultural events happen in Iceland in January?
Are all Iceland's popular attractions open in January?
How do Icelanders celebrate the New Year, and are there any special events in early January?
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