What is the weather like in Iceland in January?

Reykjavík has a normal high of 3.2 °C, a mean of 0.7 °C and a normal low of -1.7 °C. Normal precipitation is 87.1 mm.

How much daylight does Iceland have in January?

Around the middle of January, Reykjavík has 5h 23m of daylight. Sunrise is 10:55 and sunset is 16:19.

Can northern lights be seen in Iceland in January?

January falls within the period when northern lights are typically visible. Clear, dark conditions are required.

When to visit Iceland

Iceland in January

Winter darkness, northern lights and natural ice cave season.

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At a glance

Temperature

High 3.2 °C, low -1.7 °C, mean 0.7 °C

Precipitation

87.1 mm across 15.3 rainy days

Sunshine

22.6 sunshine hours

Mid-month daylight

5h 23m, sunrise 10:55, sunset 16:19

These figures are Reykjavík normals for 1991-2020, sourced from Icelandic Meteorological Office (Veðurstofa Íslands). North, East and highland areas run colder than Reykjavík. Iceland remains on GMT and UTC throughout the year without daylight saving.

What it is like

January falls within the typical northern lights and natural ice cave seasons. Reykjavík and the main year-round touring regions remain accessible.

Northern lights are typically visible when conditions are clear and dark.
Natural ice caves are typically in season.
Golden Circle, South Coast and Reykjavík tours operate year-round.
Whale watching runs year-round from Reykjavík.

What to do

These tour hubs match activities and regions that operate or are typically accessible during January.

Planning notes

Pack insulated, waterproof layers with warm accessories, and footwear with grip for icy ground. Use the Iceland packing list for a structured checklist.

Check other dates and locations with the Iceland daylight tool.

Frequently asked questions

What is the weather like in Iceland in January?: Reykjavík has a normal high of 3.2 °C, a mean of 0.7 °C and a normal low of -1.7 °C. Normal precipitation is 87.1 mm.
How much daylight does Iceland have in January?: Around the middle of January, Reykjavík has 5h 23m of daylight. Sunrise is 10:55 and sunset is 16:19.
Can northern lights be seen in Iceland in January?: January falls within the period when northern lights are typically visible. Clear, dark conditions are required.