A Guide to Driving in Iceland in December

Think of Iceland and you may think of a destination filled with snow, ice and glaciers (“ice” is in the name, after all). However, think of Iceland in December and you may think of even more snow, ice and glaciers — all of which are things most travellers don’t typically associate with safe driving conditions. 

But don't let that stop you from planning an incredible road trip through Iceland in December! With some preparation and the right rental car, you can explore many parts of the country safely and comfortably.

Is December a Good Time to Visit Iceland?

Winter in Iceland holds a special kind of magic, making it an ideal time for some travelers. Here’s why.

• December is a great time to see the northern lights in Iceland

One of the biggest draws for visiting Iceland in December? The northern lights. With long, dark nights, December offers prime conditions for northern lights viewing. Iceland’s short daylight hours, from about 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., give you ample opportunity to chase the lights without losing sleep.

To make the most of your northern lights hunt, consider driving away from the cities to darker rural areas. Always check resources like the Icelandic Meteorological Office or Aurora Forecast for the latest updates on solar activity and clear skies.

Need more info? Check out our full guide to northern lights hunting in Iceland.

• Enjoy Beautiful Sunrises and Sunset

December offers a unique opportunity to witness some of the most beautiful sunrises and sunsets. In contrast to the near-constant daylight in the summer, December’s short days provide stunning lighting conditions, with glaciers reflecting the vibrant colors. Since the sun rises late and sets early, you can easily catch these moments without waking up too early or staying out too late.

• Iceland knows how to do the holidays

What better place to spend Christmas than in the magical wintery wonderland that is Iceland? You're (almost) guaranteed a white Christmas here — which is probably why December is such a popular month for Iceland tourism. Thanks to all the festivities and fun, you’ll never run out of things to do when you visit around Christmas and New Year’s. 

• It’s Less Busy

Fewer tourists visit Iceland in December, which is a huge perk. Popular attractions like the Blue Lagoon, Skógafoss Falls, and Seljalandsfoss Falls will be nearly empty, allowing you to enjoy them without huge crowds.

• Inexpensive Flights and Accommodation

Flying to Iceland in December is relatively inexpensive. Although December is a time when many families have holidays from work and school, Iceland is not a typical family destination in the winter. Lower demand means lower prices for flights, accommodation, and tours for the first part of the month. You’ll also have more flexibility regarding where to stay, and you won’t have to worry about tours being fully booked. Make sure to use flight and hotel comparison sites to find the best deals.

Weather and Daylight in Iceland in December      

Iceland’s weather is famously unpredictable, and December is no exception. Expect chilly conditions, with average temperatures ranging between -2°C (28°F) and 4°C (39°F). The further north you go, the colder and windier it gets, with wind chills making it feel even cooler.

In terms of daylight, Iceland experiences very short days in December. The sun rises around 11 a.m. and sets by 3:30 p.m., giving you just over four hours of daylight. While this might seem limiting, it’s perfect for seeing the northern lights and enjoying winter activities. Make the most of your day by starting your exploration early to catch the first light at popular sites.

Renting a Car in Iceland in December

Why rent a car in Iceland in December? 

The top reason, though, is freedom. Renting a car allows you to go where you want, when you want, without being forced to follow the itinerary of a tour provider, or hiring an expensive service to ferry you around. Don’t even think that you’ll rely on public transportation; there’s not a whole lot of that in Iceland. 

Want to get up in the middle of the night and go northern lights chasing? You can do it with a rental car. Want to go glacier hiking or ice caving exploring? You can easily meet your tour guide in nearly any part of the country, with a rental car. 

Beyond the freedom, though, renting a car and self-driving around Iceland also allows you to more fully explore the country. You get to take in the scenery, and stop at areas that catch your interest, and all without being rushed. 

Book early for the best deals

While rental cars are typically pretty available toward the beginning of December, they become less so, the closer we get to the holidays. For your top choice in vehicle, and the best prices, book your rental car as soon as you know you’re travelling to Iceland. 

What are the road conditions like in Iceland in December? 

Winter road conditions in Iceland can be challenging, especially in the northern and more remote areas. The safest regions for winter driving are around Reykjavik, the South Coast, and the Golden Circle.

The Eastfjords and northern parts of the country are more challenging and we only recommend you travel to those parts of Iceland in December if you're a skillful, experienced driver who knows how to handle snow and ice with ease. The Westfjords are not advisable at all, due to the frequent road closures; the Highlands of Iceland are closed off altogether during the winter.

What car do you need to visit Iceland in December?

We recommend renting a 4x4 SUV, a vehicle with good traction and clearance to handle snowy roads. A sturdy vehicle will give you peace of mind as you travel Iceland’s winter landscapes.

What kind of car rental insurance should I get in Iceland in December?

But don't just pick out the right rental car for your Iceland road trip. You’ll also need to get the right rental car insurance. If you book your rental car on the Lava Car Rental website, you’ll get a basic insurance package included in the price of your rental. 

However, to protect your travel budget from unforeseen costs that can arise when travelling, and especially when driving in a new country, you might want to consider upgrading to an additional, more extensive insurance package, which offers protection in a broader range of circumstances. 

What to Do in Iceland in December

Take a road trip - Suggested road trip itinerary for Iceland in December

The southern portion of Iceland is the safest, with the clearest roadways, during the winter months. However, just because you want to stick to a single region of Iceland, that doesn’t mean you can’t still plan a fun road trip. You can easily spend a week or 10 days driving around just the South of Iceland. 

Chase the northern lights

December is the best time to come to Iceland to experience the northern lights. While it is possible to book a northern lights tour, if you want to go it alone, you can easily chase the northern lights by yourself — here’s how. 

Visit an ice cave

Ice caving is one of Iceland’s most popular winter activities. Explore the vivid blue ice caves of Vatnajokull, but be sure to go with a certified guide to ensure your safety.

One of the best places in the country to go ice caving? Vatnajokull glacier, which is situated in South Iceland — making it a perfect stop on a South Iceland road trip!

Take a dip in a geothermal pool

Swimming isn’t just for summer, at least not when you’re in Iceland. Check out one of the country’s many geothermal pools while you’re here. From spa-like pools that are developed and built up, to rural pools that require a little hiking before your dip, you can find an experience that suits your travel style.

Events in Iceland in December 

Advent

Advent begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas Eve, marking the day when Icelanders start lighting their Christmas trees. If you're visiting on this day, don’t miss the lighting of the Oslo Christmas Tree at Austurvöllur in Reykjavik.

During Advent, from December 12th to December 24th, the Yule Lads make their appearances at celebrations around the country. These mischievous trolls, Iceland's version of Santa Claus, have unique personalities, from stealing milk to licking bowls. Look out for them at the National Museum of Iceland every day during this period.

The Winter Solstice in Iceland

December 21 marks the winter solstice, the shortest day of the year. Iceland celebrates with the lighting of the Imagine Peace Tower on Videy Island, visible from Reykjavik.

Christmas in Iceland 

The holiday season is big in Iceland, with plenty of traditional and modern events. Expect Christmas markets, festive foods, and Yuletide celebrations throughout the month. For more information, read our full guide to Christmas in Iceland. 

New Year’s Eve and New Year in Iceland 

Iceland celebrates the ringing in of the New Year with a huge fireworks display. If you’re staying around Reykjavik, you’ll have multiple options for fireworks watching, though some of the most popular sites to take in the display include at Hallgrimskirkja Church and Perlman. 

For more on information, check out our guide to Iceland New Year traditions and festivities. 

What to Pack for a Trip to Iceland in December

Here’s what to pack, for the best, most comfortable, cosiest trip possible.

• Warm layers of clothing, such as sweaters and thermals
• A waterproof coat
• Waterproof hiking boots with lots of traction
• Hats, gloves and scarves to protect your extremities 
• Thermal underwear or another winter-specific base layer
• Waterproof pants, particularly if you plan on doing any hiking or outdoor sightseeing
• A swimsuit (for visiting the geothermal pools!)
• A travel adapter, just in case you don’t typically use Type C or F outlets in your home country
• A camera with extra batteries and extra memory cards
• A daypack for carrying all of your gear (as well as any layers of clothing you may need to remove or put back on) when you're not using your suitcase
• A reusable water bottle for staying hydrated; Iceland’s tap water is totally safe to drink and is some of the highest-quality, best tap water in the world

For further insight as to what to pack, be sure to check Iceland's weather forecast (via vedur.is) a few days before your trip. Do keep in mind that even if you check the forecast a few days out, it can still change; it’s important to be prepared for anything!. 

Final Tips for Driving in Iceland in December

• Rent a 4x4 vehicle for better traction in snowy conditions
• Purchase extra insurance to cover unexpected incidents
• Check weather forecasts daily via www.vedur.is
• Monitor road conditions on www.road.is
• Be flexible with your itinerary in case of weather changes
• Familiarize yourself with Iceland’s driving laws before you arrive

Is it Worth Visiting Iceland in December? 

Absolutely! Whether you’re chasing the northern lights, experiencing Icelandic holiday traditions, or simply enjoying the beauty of winter landscapes, a December road trip through Iceland is an unforgettable experience.

Let the local team at Lava Car Rental help you find the perfect rental car for your adventure. Browse our selection of vehicles and book early to secure the best deals!

Rent your car in Iceland now