Visiting Iceland in November is an incredible experience. The country has astounding nature and beauty, super unique things to do and also an interesting history.
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Tours, accommodation, what to pack and transport are the most important things to think about when planning your trip to Iceland in November. Here are our recommendations for each:
- Take a snowmobiling tour across a glacier
- Stay at a cute guesthouse in the Golden Circle
- Rent a 4X4 and self-drive to your activities – full article here.
- Check out our essential winter packing list
Iceland has been on our bucket list for years now. It intrigued us, and we were right to be drawn in because it truly is a captivating country.
There aren’t many places in the world quite like it, and we are already planning to return. Whether you’re interested in the scenery, the adrenaline activities or just the food (admit it), visiting Iceland in November is a great way to spend your holidays.
This post is full of tips and advice about travelling to Iceland travel in November. Click on the contents box below to jump straight to the information that you need, whether it’s what to wear in Iceland in November, where to stay or finding more about the must-do Iceland winter tours.
Things To Do In Iceland In November
You certainly won’t be without a fantastic itinerary for Iceland in November, especially if you’re only on a quick weekend break like many people are.
We recommend at least 4 days in Iceland – get an early morning flight on day 1 and a late one on the way back so that you can make the most of your time there. That’s easier said than done when you’re travelling from further afield than Europe but you could easily add an Iceland itinerary to a longer trip.
Pro Tip
If you’re flying from Europe, use Easyjet to book your flights as they’re a cheap airline. Read the flights details carefully though as often the returning flight will actually be landing at a different airport than your departing one. It could lead to other travel issues or problems with picking up a car left at the wrong airport!
Here are our top picks of what to do in Iceland in November:
Snowmobiling
This is top of our list for a reason! Snowmobiling is the perfect Icelandic adventure. Crossing an incredible glacier and watching the sun go down whilst driving (or being driven if you’re a nervous wreck like me!) has got to be high up on your Iceland bucket list.
If you’re staying around Reykjavik, take a tour to Langjökull Glacier (Iceland’s second-largest).
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Snowmobiling & Golden Circle
In our opinion, this is the best snowmobile tour available in all of Iceland. You get an incredible snowmobile experience on the Langjokull glacier as well as being taken around the famous Golden Circle. Both of these activities are a must in Iceland so combine them right here.
You’ll be picked up at Gullfoss and driven to the base camp in a huge beast of a truck. From there you’ll hop onto your snowmobiles and be treated to some incredible views from the glacier.
For much more information about all of the best snowmobiling tours available in Iceland and how to pick the perfect one for you then click here.
A Golden Circle Tour
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Golden Circle Classic Day Trip From Reykjavik
This has got to be one of the most popular things to do in Iceland in November. There are plenty of guided tours that will pick you up from Reykjavik and take you to the three famous attractions.
You’ll follow the famous ring road and visit Þingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area and Gullfoss waterfall.
The National Park is a World Heritage Site where not only can you appreciate the incredible natural beauty of the area, but you discover the engrossing history of the early settlers and how Iceland gained independence in the 20th century.
If you’d prefer to drive the route yourself, you can stop off for longer at the different spots and enjoy some other activities.
Scuba dive or snorkel between two tectonic plates (you’ll need to be certified for diving but you can snorkel as long as you can swim!), marvel at the waterfalls dotted around the park and follow a hiking trail to lead you some wonderful views. You can even camp here!
Less than an hour’s drive from the park is the hot spring area where the original Geysir is located. It’s unlikely it will erupt whilst you’re there – it hasn’t properly gone off in around 100 years. However, you WILL see the nearby Strokkur geyser explode and it’s such an amazing sight!
You only have to wait 2 or 3 minutes and the boiling hot water will bubble up and launch into the air. The water can reach heights of around 30m – get that slow-mo ready!
Gullfoss waterfall is pretty close too – it literally takes 10 minutes to drive and there is plenty of parking.
The waterfall is loud and a little intimidating, but it’s also magnificent. Be careful walking down the steps because they can get super slippery, especially if you’re travelling to Iceland in November.
You can get up close to the falls and you’ll be sprayed with water but it’s definitely a must-see attraction. Take a wander around the shop at the top. If you’ve booked one of these amazing snowmobiling tours, it’s likely that you’ll be picked up from the car park here.
Click here for more information on a Golden Circle Classic tour.
An Icelandic Helicopter Tour
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Mountain Helicopter Tour with Summit Landing from Reykjavik
If you want to seriously make your trip memorable then you could take to the skies and take a helicopter tour around some of the most incredible sights that you will ever see in your whole life. Iceland in November looks good from the ground but you can’t even imagine the secrets it holds behind those impassable mountains and rugged terrains.
Take a look at our ultimate guide to helicopter tours in Iceland for more information on the best helicopter tour for you!
Glacier Caves
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From Jökulsárlón: Crystal Ice Cave Day Tour
If you visit Iceland in November, you’ll get the chance to visit a glacier cave. During the warmer months, these caves flood because the ice melts. That means winter is the only time you’ll be able to get there. Only go with a guide as these areas can be dangerous and unpredictable!
Glacier Hiking
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Skaftafell National Park: Glacier Hike
Hike a glacier and see what you’re really made of! You can choose the level of difficulty when booking, but you’ll still be open to the elements. You’ll be walking for at least 3 hours so you need to be reasonably fit. There are so many different types of glacier tours – from kayaking the glacial waters to walking deep down into the ice itself!
The Blue Lagoon
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Blue Lagoon: Entry Ticket with Drink, Towel, and Mud Mask
You can’t book a trip to Iceland in November without visiting the Blue Lagoon! At this time of year, the temperature levels drop but the water in the lagoon stays hot so it’s really fun to swim in!
One option is to only visit the Blue Lagoon on its own like in the tour above, but you can make the most of your time in Iceland by combining activities! You could see the Golden Circle, Kerid Crate AND the Blue Lagoon all in one trip if you want! Find out more about this tour here.
You’ll be picked up by minibus and taken to the beautiful Golden Circle spots. Keep your camera out because the Kerid Crater is just as stunning too!
Then you’ll be taken to relax at the Blue Lagoon where you can wind down the day with a mud mask and drink in the thermal waters!
You can go in the daytime when you’ll get better photos. Or, go at night when there are fewer people around and there’s an eerie magical feel to the place.
Included in the price are a towel, a silica mud mask and a drink at the swim-up bar. If you pay a little extra you’ll get a dressing gown and another mineral, lava or algae face mask of your choice.
Book your return transport here, or combine it with your entrance ticket here.
If you do decide to skip the Blue Lagoon, then there are plenty of other hot springs that you can experience. Iceland has an amazing amount of geothermal activity so you’ll easily be able to find other springs that are not as popular.
A once-in-a-lifetime experience is to stay overnight at the Blue Lagoon’s own hotel – The Retreat. It’s absolutely stunning, and some rooms give you direct access to the glossy blue waters of the Lagoon.
I’ll admit, the suites are pricey but if you’re celebrating a special occasion in Iceland in November and you’ve got the budget to blow, this is the place to do it!
Click here to see prices and reviews.
Northern Lights
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Iceland: Northern Lights Bus Tour From Reykjavik
We won’t mess around because we all know why you’re going – to take a Northern Lights tour. It can’t be guaranteed because Mother Nature likes to toy with us. But! Visiting Iceland in November is going to give you a fair chance of spotting that elusive aurora borealis, or Northern Lights to the un-sciencey folk out there.
The long, dark nights are perfect for viewing but the clouds can block the Lights out so just be aware of that when booking your Iceland trip.
If you are desperate to see the Northern Lights, joining a group tour is a really good idea. Of course, no one can promise that you’ll see them, but with an experienced guide taking you to the best spots, you’ve got a better chance.
This Northern Lights Bus Tour gives you 4 hours to spot the famous green glow, and if you don’t then you can book another trip the next day for free. You also get a cup of hot chocolate to keep you toasty! Click here for more information and the prices of this tour.
Snorkelling/SCUBA Diving
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Snorkelling Between Two Plates (+ Photos)
The Silfra fissure is a rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. Swimming in between the two plates means that you’ll be next to two different continents – how’s that for the adventure!?
Situated in Þingvellir National Park, the world’s clearest water waits ready for you to swim, snorkel or dive into. If you’re a certified diver, then SCUBA diving in Iceland is a must-do activity. If you’re not certified, then you can still join in the fun with your snorkelling gear.
If you’re looking for a snorkel kit then check out this Greatever mask and snorkel. We have been on so many snorkel and boat tours where the snorkel hire was dreadful and it ruins the experience. If you have room then definitely take your own set. Take a look at our recommended kit here.
Our Top Pick
Yes, it will be cold in Iceland in November (around 2 – 4 degrees Celsius, or 35 – 39 Fahrenheit) but you’ll be required to wear a dry suit which will insulate your body.
Christmas Shopping
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Iceland’s Christmas Myths and Traditions
Iceland in November is full of Christmas markets, performances and activities. Take a Christmas ‘Myths and Traditions’ walking tour to learn about Iceland’s holiday folklore! You might even spot one of the 13 Santa Claus’ around town!
Escaping the festive cheer is difficult at this time of year, but why would you ever want to!?
If you’re wondering what to do in Reykjavík in November, there are plenty of shopping opportunities and Christmas concerts to enjoy too.
Why Should You Visit Iceland In November 2022?
I don’t think you’re going to need much convincing to be honest! Surprisingly, Iceland is a fantastic place to visit all year round. Considering that it’s literally the land of ice, summer in Iceland is also a great time to come if you can’t visit in winter.
Read More: 10 Reasons To Visit Iceland In June
However, the country really shows off during the colder months. If you can stand the chill and the dark days, you should be coming towards the end of the year.
Talking of light – there isn’t much of it in Iceland in November but I personally thought that it gave a magical feel to our Iceland trip when we were out driving around the ring road at 9 am and the sun hadn’t risen yet! It’s a weird experience but it does get you up and out of your accommodation so that you can fit everything in during the day.
Read More: Your Guide To Exploring Iceland In 4 Days
There are also some top things to do in Iceland in November that just wouldn’t be possible during the summer months.
You can visit the ice caves, which are flooded after April when the ice melts.
The hot springs are also especially fun during the winter because you’ll be standing in literally freezing temperatures one minute, and the next you’ll be swimming in 40 degrees (104 Fahrenheit!). It’s just not the same shock to the system in summer!
Visiting Iceland in the winter also means that there will generally be fewer tourists around, so you can have some beautiful spots to yourself for longer. Exploring a glacier lagoon is so much more breathtaking when you’re alone! Of course, people will always be travelling to Iceland all year round but many people don’t like to brave the winter months!
During November, it will be easier for you to get that Instagram shot next to a gushing waterfall, or book that dreamy Airbnb at a lower price.
Our Top Pick
If you don’t have a camera then I HIGHLY recommend the Panasonic Lumix ZS70K. It is an affordable point-and-shoot camera that can be picked up and used by anyone of any ability. The camera captures gorgeous images and surprisingly excellent video whilst fitting in your pocket. The main difference between this and your phone’s camera is that it also has an incredible optical zoom so you won’t miss any of the shots you need to take. Check it out here.
Iceland Weather In November
No surprises here – Iceland is cold! However, at this time of year, it doesn’t actually get as cold as you might expect considering how far north the country lies.
How cold does it get in Iceland in November? Well, the average temperature for November in Iceland is between 1 and 4 degrees Celsius (38 – 41 Fahrenheit). The wind chill can be brutal though so make sure you are prepared for that with the clothes you pack. Windproof clothes are definitely something to consider!
To prepare for the Iceland temperature in November, make sure you pack clothes that you can layer on. When you’re hiking around in low temperatures, you can still get really hot so peeling off a thin jacket or some leg warmers would be helpful.
If you are thinking about visiting Iceland in November weather should be the first thing you think about when you’re packing your bags!
There also aren’t many daylight hours during this month. Towards the end, you might only see the sun for about 5 hours! It will seem like it’s slowly coasting across the horizon, never fully going up.
We visited during the last week of November and the sun didn’t rise until 10 am!
What To Wear In Iceland In November
Here’s our guide to what clothes you should wear in Iceland in November (remember that if you’re visiting at a different time of year, you might need to bring less depending on how much you feel the cold!)
Be careful when you’re packing because winter clothes will be bulky, but if you’re only visiting Iceland for a long weekend then the chances are that you will only be carrying hand luggage on the flight.
Our Top Pick
People can go WAY overboard when buying hand luggage when you really don’t need to spend a lot of money. We recommend going for something sturdy and affordable like the Wrangler 20″. It’s exactly what you would expect from hand luggage but also comes with a neat charging trick. If you have a power bank, you can connect the power bank from inside the case and charge your phone from a port on the outside! Check it out on amazon here.
Our Top Pick
This windproof/waterproof jacket is absolutely perfect for keeping the cold out and staying warm when you are visiting such cold places. If you only have a warm waterproof jacket I would seriously consider upgrading to windproof as it makes even more difference than the fleece lining in my opinion. See our recommendation here.
Our Top Pick
If you’re looking for some decent waterproof trousers then take a look at these. They are windproof and waterproof but also insulated which means that you may get away with only wearing these and not having to have an additional layer underneath. They also do a very good job of not looking too much like waterproof trousers. Have a look to see what I mean here.
Our Top Pick
If you’re planning on doing some serious hiking then we recommend you take a look at these Columbia walking boots. They come in loads of different colours and we think that they are really stylish. The most important thing however is that there are comfortable, waterproof and resilient which these are! There is nothing worse than sore feet preventing you from making the most out of your trip so don’t put it down to chance. Check them out in more detail here.
Our Top Pick
If you get particularly cold then you are going to want to take a look at these fleece-lined full-body thermals. If you couple these with decent clothing over the top then the coldest of people should be warm in the coldest of places. Have a look at colours and sizes here.
Our Top Pick
If you’re looking for a pair of warm gloves then check out these waterproof/windproof/thermal gloves. When you’re looking for decent gloves then fashion should not be your main priority. I don’t know about you but cold hands are the pinnacle of annoyance! These absolutely get the job done and you don’t have to take them off to use your phone which is a godsend. Take a more detailed look here.
Our Top Pick
If you are worried about getting cold feet (and you should be) then take a look at these brilliant thermal socks by Hot Feet. They should keep your feet warm in the cold conditions you will be facing, as long as you have decent footwear as well! You get 8 pairs which are also really good for the price. Take a look in more detail here.
Our Top Pick
If you haven’t already got a swimming costume then what the hell are you doing?! Have a look at this gorgeous high waist bikini and get a swimsuit before you leave. I absolutely love the dual colour option but there are loads of colour options available. Take a look here.
Our Top Pick
You absolutely need to have a warm hat when you are visiting cold places so take a look at this gorgeous fleece-lined cable knit beanie. It’s a timeless style and will absolutely keep your ears and head warm for your trip! Take a look at different colours here.
Our Top Pick
If you’re not a massive fan of fleece-lined hats (Jade isn’t) then earmuffs are the way forward. These vegan earmuffs look amazing and come in varying sizes whilst also looking really cute. I personally like the brown faux leather look but there are lots of different colours available. Take a look here.
Our Top Pick
It goes without question that you’re going to need a jumper. This gorgeous knitted jumper will keep you warm whilst also looking the part (people love the knitted look in the cold!). There are a few colours to choose from the reviews talk for themselves! Take a look here.
Packing List Essentials
Getting Around Iceland In November
When considering your transport in Iceland in November, you have two main options. Either hire a car or join multiple-day tours to discover what the country has to offer.
There are a couple of pros and cons of each so read carefully and decide what is best for you. If you do decide to drive then book early because cars are a popular mode of transport in Iceland. Car rental tends to be cheaper in the winter too so that’s a bonus.
Hiring a Car In Iceland
Iceland isn’t a huge country, but getting from the airport near Reykjavik. along the beautiful south coast, to the magical East Fjords and then across the culturally rich north of Iceland could prove difficult if you don’t have a car!
Renting a car gives you tons more flexibility, and will be more comfortable as you’ll be able to pick and choose when you stop for a break to stretch your legs.
Choose a 4×4 when you book so that you can have more control when driving on icy roads. Hiring a car just means that you can create your own Iceland itinerary.
You’ll be able to explore everywhere freely, from Europe’s most powerful waterfall in North Iceland to that famous plane wreck down in the south that you always see on Instagram!
If you aren’t driving, grab a seat on the shuttle bus to take you straight from the airport to Reykjavik – most tours start from there.
Don’t ever go ‘off-road’ (on the F-roads) as that is actually illegal. The government (and local people!) understandably don’t want their precious landscapes to be ruined by reckless drivers.
Fuel is expensive in Iceland – there is no getting around that fact! However, if you’re splitting the cost with a few other drivers then driving will work out cheaper anyway.
You also have the option of hiring a motorhome or campervan to drive yourself around in and live in too! They are more expensive of course, but you’ll save on accommodation so work out what is more cost-effective for your own needs.
Click here to browse car rentals and compare prices.
Using Tours In Iceland in November
Joining tours is a great way to have your trip organised for you. You’ll also learn a lot from the guides about Iceland that you might not find out if you drove yourself.
One downside is that although tour buses will, of course, have toilet breaks so that might get annoying if you don’t need to stop all the time. Plus, if you pass one of Iceland’s best waterfalls and want to spend ten minutes taking some photographs, it’s unlikely that you’ll be able to because you’ll be on a time schedule!
Actually, we think that a mix between the two is a good option. We hired a car as we wanted to drive all the way to the east side of the country independently. We also took a tour too.
If you have a licence to drive and YOU’RE A CONFIDENT DRIVER, then driving in Iceland in November shouldn’t be too hard.
There are icy roads and narrow bridges to cross too. As long as you’re slow and careful, you should be okay. Never underestimate the weather in Iceland in November though and if it seems too dangerous to drive, then it probably is!
There are usually public buses to rely on if you do get really stuck, and you’re staying close to the town centre.
Iceland tours, however, are excellent ways of exploring the country and getting great tips from local people. Take a look at some of the best tours you can take in Iceland here.
Where To Stay In Iceland
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Budget
This cute farmhouse is owned by a friendly family who will make you feel so welcome! You can park your rented car on the property for free too.
Luxury
The views here are insane plus you have access to a spa with a sauna, geothermal pool and lounge. Breakfast is included in the price.
There are plenty of awesome accommodation options in Iceland for you to choose from. Whether you want a unique cabin, stay in fancy hotels or jump from hostel to hostel, you’ll find something.
Read More: 9 Of The Most Unique Hotels In Iceland
Remember that if you are staying in one location, you might be driving/sitting in a bus for hours. If that doesn’t appeal then it might be a better idea to pick more than one accommodation in different locations. That way, you aren’t doing any return journeys in one day.
Iceland is full of great hotels, hostels and guesthouse options. One of the main things you need to consider when you’re picking your accommodation is the location – I’d highly recommend staying near the Golden Circle!
Hotels
There are some beautiful hotels in Iceland, especially the further you get away from big cities like Reykjavík. Imagine watching the Northern Lights from your cosy bed through the floor-to-ceiling windows!
Of course, you’ll pay a premium price but if you have saved up for this trip specifically then you’ll have so many options of where to stay in Iceland. WiFi is usually included and some places offer breakfast too, which is a good way to save on food throughout the day if you fill up in the morning!
Hostels
If you’re happy to share a dormitory room, then hostels are a great way to save money on accommodation in Iceland. Some hostels do have private rooms and double beds but they’ll just be a lot more basic.
I assume you’re going to Iceland in November to experience the country and not solely to test out their accommodation though! If you’re going to be out all day anyway, then a basic room is all you’ll need. Plus, many hostels will have their own kitchens so you can prepare picnic lunches to take on your day trips.
Hostels are also good for meeting new people so if you’re on a solo trip then it might be a better idea to grab a hostel. If you’re using tour buses because you might find some people staying in the same place as you are going on the same trips!
Bond over your travel plans or even some music if you have a shared lounge area.
If you’re looking for a portable speaker then check out the JBL Flip 5. In my opinion, it is the best portable speaker in the world right now in terms of price and quality. Going to a secluded beach and listening to decent-sounding music makes all the difference so take a look here!
Click here to explore accommodation options in Reykjavik!
Frequently Asked Questions
Will it snow in Iceland in November?
There is a fairly high chance that it might snow at this time of year, but there is no guarantee. In fact, the November weather can be very unpredictable so make sure you are prepared for all cases. Think carefully about what to pack for Iceland in November – layers are good so that you can add or remove them depending on the weather. If you’re hiring a car, ask yourself if you’d be confident driving in snowy conditions just in case.
Will I see whales in Iceland in November?
It’s not the best time of year to go whale watching but there are tours running all year round from Reykjavík if you’re happy to take a chance. Go north to Akureyri to improve your chances of seeing a humpback whale. If you don’t see a whale, usually the tours will give you a chance to come back on another day to try again.
Can you see puffins in Iceland in November?
Unfortunately not! The puffins come out around April time and usually leave by September! If you want a higher chance of seeing the puffins, then I’d recommend visiting somewhere in the middle of these months so you don’t miss them!
Will I see the Northern Lights in Iceland In November?
The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon so there’s obviously no guarantee you’ll see them. As the nights get longer and there is limited daylight, then your chances do increase.
These tours can be useful because the guides know where the best places to look are. Some tours (like the one I recommended above) give you advice on how to photograph the lights if you do see them. You also get the chance to learn about the star constellations too!
Should I drive in Iceland in November?
The roads shouldn’t be too hazardous at this time of year, so it should be like driving anywhere else. However, you might have to cross narrow bridges, and if there is heavy snow that could be distracting. If you aren’t a confident driver then consider only using bus tours.
Driving does give you amazing flexibility and I do think it’s the best way to travel around the country! Here, people drive on the right by the way!
Is Iceland busy in November?
Surprisingly, tourists are less likely to visit during the winter months. It is cold, but not unbearably so, and you might see the Northern Lights at this time of year too!
What is great about Iceland is that most of the fun attractions don’t require tickets or queuing. This means that there won’t be a mad rush at a particular time. There are plenty of people in Iceland at this time of year but it is quieter than in the summer months.
Is November a good time to go to Iceland?
Absolutely! Yes, it’s cold but it is the land of Ice remember! Plenty of tours will be running, there will be fewer tourists than in the summer and lots of accommodation will be available.
Is Iceland too cold in November?
If you wrap up properly, I think it’s not too bad! The temperatures drop to around 1 and 4 degrees Celsius (38 – 41 Fahrenheit) so Iceland in November is definitely bearable in your winter clothes.
Does Iceland have snow in November?
There is a chane that it will snow in Iceland in November but don’t only come for that! It’s more likely to start snowing in December for a few months.
Is Iceland dark in November?
In early November, the sun rises at about 9 am and sets from around 5 pm but it is already pretty dark between those times too! The times change quite drastically throughout the month too – check out this chart for more information.
Hopefully, this post about Iceland in November has helped you plan some fun activities whilst you’re there! Let us know in the comments if you have any questions. Or, if you have any tips that you think we should add let us know!
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