Discover Iceland in February: Handy 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!

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.

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!

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!

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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!

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 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 geology. 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!

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.

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 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!

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.

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.

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.

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 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!

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!

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.

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.

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!

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.