Iceland in November: Worthwhile? adorned with tranquil landscapes and the enchanting dance of the Northern Lights. Despite challenging weather, it’s a unique and rewarding time for those prepared for the winter wonders.
Iceland in November: Worthwhile?
As winter draws near, Iceland’s weather gets worse, and many tourists question if it’s worthwhile to travel there in the dead of winter. Yes, Iceland in November: Worthwhile? the weather can be challenging, but you should still go to Iceland in the winter. Although it may seem complicated, we have some advice for you. Continue reading! The first month that Iceland experiences the Polar night is “Iceland in November: Worthwhile?”. As the month progresses, the days grow shorter, and the weather turns gloomier and colder. Consequently, the night grows longer, and there are more strong gusts and rains.
What are the temperatures in November?
In November, Iceland experiences an average temperature of around 4 °C (40 °F). In a single day, you can anticipate to experience rain, sun, fog, snow, and wind. At the beginning of the month, the sun rises at 8:58 am and sets at 4:53 pm, so there are roughly 8 hours of daylight. There will be roughly 5 hours of daylight each day up to the end of the month, with the sun rising at 10:43 and setting at 3:27. Crazy, yet that’s part of the appeal of the Polar night.
How to dress in November?
Layers! “Iceland in November: Worthwhile?” Layers are essential in the cold. To keep your body warm and dry, you will first need a warm layer. You will then require a sturdy cover layer to shield you from the chilly wind. It would be ideal if you had a waterproof cover layer to keep you out of the rain and snow. Your feet will stay warm and dry with thick socks and sturdy boots.
A warm hat, gloves, and possibly a scarf to cover your face and neck when necessary should not be overlooked. Do not forget your swimsuit since you cannot depart Iceland without taking a geothermal bath in the style of a real Viking.
What is the best and safest way to explore Iceland during winter?
As I previously stated, “Iceland in November: Worthwhile?” Iceland can experience any form of weather, and occasionally the weather up here in the North is really severe. The best and safest way to discover Iceland is by signing up for a Private tour, especially if you do not have driving expertise or simply do not want to cope with wacky weather maps.
When you reserve a private tour, a knowledgeable local driver will transport you to every location on your schedule. More than that, he or she is more familiar with the roads and knows how to handle bad weather.
There are several benefits to scheduling a private tour in the winter, and you can read about them all on our blog post about the topic.
What to do in Iceland in November?
There are lots of events and activities you may take part in while visiting Iceland if you want to make your trip more exciting.
Events to participate in Iceland
Iceland Airwaves Festival
2 – 4 November, Reykjavik
“Iceland Airwaves is a multi-venue, immersive music festival that takes place in the nation’s capital, Reykjavik. This festival features hundreds of performances from unknown up-and-comers to well-known performers, from well-known foreign talent to the nation’s diverse pool of homegrown rising stars.Italia Airwaves Visit Iceland Airwaves’ official website for additional details about the occasion and to purchase tickets.
Icelandic Language Day
The 16 th of November
Every year, a festival honoring the Icelandic language is held on Icelandic Language Day.”In Autumn 1995, Iceland’s Minister of Education, Science, and Culture, Björn Bjarnason, proposed that one day per year be designated to honor the Icelandic language, which has been preserved in its original form over the centuries, unlike most other languages, as well as the efforts to protect this distinctive national symbol.”(Wikipedia)
Activities to do in Iceland in November
Some of the most well-known locations in Iceland, such as the Golden Circle, the South Coast with its breathtaking waterfalls and black beaches, Snaefellsnes Peninsula, or Reykjanes Peninsula, may still be visited even with a few hours of daylight. If you plan to remain for longer than a few days, you can also visit the country’s northern region to see some stunning sites. There are numerous thrilling wintertime activities to choose from, like aurora searching, ice cave exploration, snowmobiling, dog sledding, glacier hikes, geothermal spas, and many more.
Snorkelling at Silfra
Snorkelling at Silfra should be on your bucket list. Described as one of the top dive sites globally by National Geographic, Silfra is located in the historically rich Thingvellir National Park – part of the famous Golden Circle route. Snorkelling in Silfra is a once-in-a-lifetime transcontinental experience. The guides will show you what National Geographic has described as one of the top dive sites in the world. As you glide between tectonic plates floating on pure, filtered glacial meltwater, you’ll find out for yourself and tick off your bucket list for the ultimate tour on breathtaking underwater views only available in Iceland in the world’s most transparent waters.
Geothermal baths and hot springs
There is no right time for a geothermal bath. And it is a must-do in Iceland. Check our blog to see the best places to relax like a true Viking and where you can find natural hot springs in Westfjords.
Hunting the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis)
As November marks the start of the dark season, there is a good probability that you may see the Northern Lights, which is necessary if you intend to “hunt” for them. Take numerous layers of warm clothing with you if you’re traveling to Iceland in November because you’ll probably spend most of your time outside in the cold in search of the Northern Lights. There is no reason to pass it up, right?
Experiencing a dog-sledging tour
A dog-sledging tour will be the cutest part of your trip. Our furry friends here in Iceland are ready to give you a memorable experience.
Exploring an Ice Cave
The greatest time to visit Iceland’s icy regions is during the colder months, especially those hidden beneath glaciers. One of such activities is exploring a Blue Ice Cave, and I can assure you that it will be an experience you will never forget. Since many visitors to Iceland during the winter wish to explore the ice caves, plan and reserve your tour to the Blue Ice Cave in advance.
You can combine a visit of the Blue Ice Cave with a hike through the glacier. The largest glacier in Europe, Vatnajökull, is available for tours, or you can hike on Mrdalsjökull, which is located north of the village of Vk Mrdal.
Although November tends to be a gloomy month, if you prepare beforehand, you can enjoy some of the best experiences in Iceland. View our private tours to let a local show you the most well-known locations in Iceland.
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