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

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

Most rental car companies put studded tires on their vehicles. They come in handy whether you are driving in the city or in the countryside.

My go-to car rental company is Go Car Rental Iceland and Go Campers for a camper van.

I use their cars and campers when I travel around Iceland, and I’ve partnered with them for over 4 years now. The main reasons? Their customer service is amazing, and they have a wide range of vehicles to choose from.

They’ve also given me a link so you can save 7% on your rental, plus get a couple of really useful extras.

With Go Car Rental, you’ll save 7% and get free 4G WiFi with your rental.

With Go Campers, you’ll save 7% and get a free sleeping bag included.

You can head to gorentals.is/allthingsiceland
for the discounts.

Once you enter your travel dates, the 7% discount is automatically applied.

For Go Car:
When you get to the extras section, select 4G WiFi. You’ll see the price stays the same, even though it has been added.

For Go Campers:
Choose a sleeping bag under the “Sleeping” section, and same thing, the total price won’t increase.

And just so you know, using my link gives me a small commission at no extra cost to you. It’s one of the ways you’re supporting All Things Iceland and the content I create. Thank you in advance for that.

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

• Low season
• 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
• Skiing & Snowboarding
  • 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

According to an article in RUV, an Icelandic news website:

A grumpy walrus surprised Breiðdalsvík, East Iceland, this morning, settling on a floating pier around 9 AM. Ignoring frozen herring from the harbor guard, the three-meter-long animal with 30 cm tusks made its presence known. Reporter Rúnar Snær Reynisson captured the scene as curious onlookers took photos. When approached too closely—or bothered by a drone—the walrus rose, bellowed, and exhaled a foul plume of steam.

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