Driving in Iceland in January

January in Iceland is a time of profound quiet and stark, dramatic beauty. The landscape is draped in a thick blanket of snow, waterfalls are frozen into magnificent ice sculptures, and the long, dark nights offer the best chances to witness the incredible Northern Lights. While it presents some of the most challenging driving conditions of the year, a self-drive tour in January is a deeply rewarding experience for the well-prepared traveler.

This guide provides the essential information you need for driving in Iceland in January. We will cover the realities of the weather and limited daylight, how to choose the right vehicle for your safety, and which routes are most suitable for a winter adventure, ensuring your trip is both safe and unforgettable.

Why January is a Special Time to Drive in Iceland

Embarking on a road trip in Iceland during January is an adventure that demands respect for nature. The country is at its most tranquil, offering a sense of solitude that is hard to find during the bustling summer months. The low winter sun casts a soft, ethereal glow on the snow-covered terrain, creating a photographer's dream.

Reasons to plan a January road trip:

• Prime Northern Lights Season: With only a few hours of daylight, the long, dark nights create the perfect backdrop for the aurora borealis.
• Fewer Crowds: Iceland's most famous landmarks are peaceful, allowing for a more intimate and personal experience with nature.
• Stunning Winter Landscapes: This is your chance to see natural ice caves, frozen waterfalls, and the striking contrast of snow on black sand beaches.
• Cozy Atmosphere: After a day of exploring in the cold, the warm and welcoming atmosphere of Icelandic towns and guesthouses is especially comforting.

The most critical element for a successful January trip is flexibility. The weather is the ultimate authority, and road closures are a common occurrence. Before you drive anywhere, make it a habit to check the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration site at umferdin.is for real-time road conditions and the Icelandic Meteorological Office at vedur.is for weather alerts.

Weather and Daylight in January

January is Iceland's coldest and darkest month. You must be prepared for full winter conditions throughout the country.

• Daylight: Expect only 4 to 5 hours of dim daylight each day. The sun remains low on the horizon, which creates a beautiful, prolonged "golden hour" light.
• Temperatures: Average temperatures fluctuate between -5°C and 1°C (23-34°F). However, the wind chill is a significant factor and can make it feel much, much colder.
• Conditions: Heavy snow, sleet, ice, and powerful winds are standard. Blizzards can appear with little warning, causing whiteout conditions and leading to immediate road closures.

Packing the right clothing is not a suggestion; it is a safety requirement. Your packing list must include warm, waterproof, and windproof outer layers. Thermal base layers, insulated mid-layers, hats, gloves, and sturdy, waterproof boots with excellent grip are essential for your comfort and safety.

Choosing the Right Car for January

Your vehicle is the most important tool for a safe and successful January road trip. When conditions are challenging, the right car can make all the difference.

• A 4x4 is Essential: For travel in January, a 4x4 vehicle is a necessity, not an option. It provides the required traction, stability, and ground clearance to safely navigate icy roads, deep snow, and strong winds. A 2WD car is simply not suitable for the unpredictable conditions you will encounter outside of central Reykjavík.
• Studded Winter Tires: By law, all rental vehicles must be equipped with winter tires during this season. At Höldur, all our cars come fitted with high-quality studded winter tires at no extra cost. These tires have small metal studs that bite into the ice, providing crucial grip that regular winter tires cannot match.

When you book your vehicle, the most important decision you will make is to ensure it is a 4x4. This is fundamental to a safe driving experience in the Icelandic winter.

• See also our guide to Winter Driving in Iceland.

Road Conditions and What to Expect

Driving in Iceland in January requires your complete and undivided attention. While major routes like the Ring Road (Route 1) are prioritized for snow clearing, rapid weather changes can still render them impassable.

What to watch out for:

• Ice and Black Ice: Icy patches are common everywhere, especially in the mornings, on bridges, and in shaded areas. Black ice, a transparent layer of ice on the pavement, is incredibly dangerous because it's nearly invisible. Always assume that a road that looks wet could be icy.
• Snow and Drifts: Heavy snowfall can reduce visibility to near zero in a short amount of time. Wind can also create large snowdrifts that block roads, even shortly after they have been plowed.
• Road Closures: Mountain passes and most secondary roads are often closed. This is especially true in the North, the East, and the Westfjords. All F-roads (mountain roads) are completely impassable and have been closed for months.
• Limited Services: Outside of larger towns, be aware that gas stations, restaurants, and shops may operate on reduced winter hours. It is a good rule to keep your fuel tank at least half full at all times.

Always have a backup plan. If the weather turns against you, be prepared to change your itinerary, stay where you are, and wait for conditions to improve. Never attempt to drive in a blizzard or on a road that is marked as closed.

Safety Tips for Driving in January

Your safety should always be the top priority. Follow these guidelines without exception.

• Check Conditions Before Every Drive: Make umferdin.is and vedur.is the first things you check every morning before getting in the car. Heed all official warnings.
• Drive Slowly: Posted speed limits are a maximum, not a goal. You must reduce your speed significantly to match the road and weather conditions.
• Increase Following Distance: Leave much more space than you normally would between your vehicle and the one in front. Braking on ice takes significantly longer.
• Headlights On 24/7: It is required by Icelandic law to have your headlights on at all times, day and night.
• Never Stop on the Road: To take photos or look for the Northern Lights, use designated pull-outs. Stopping on the road itself is extremely dangerous, particularly with low visibility.
• Inform Someone of Your Plans: Let your hotel staff or a trusted contact know your planned route and estimated time of arrival.

Scenic Drives Perfect for January

While large parts of the country are difficult to access, many of Iceland’s most iconic regions are at their most magical in January.

• The South Coast: This is the most popular and accessible route for a winter road trip. Driving from Reykjavík towards Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon allows you to see snow-dusted black sand beaches, the mighty frozen waterfalls of Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, and the glistening icebergs on Diamond Beach. January is also a peak month for guided ice cave tours near the Vatnajökull glacier.
• The Golden Circle: Iceland’s famous trio of sights—Þingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall—are breathtaking in the winter. Gullfoss is often partially frozen over, creating a spectacular ice-encrusted spectacle, while the steam from Geysir billows dramatically in the cold air.
• The Snæfellsnes Peninsula: Often called "Iceland in Miniature," this peninsula offers dramatic coastal cliffs, lava fields, and the iconic Kirkjufell mountain. While the route is generally accessible, you must check road conditions carefully, as mountain passes on the peninsula can close unexpectedly.

 

 

Final Thoughts

Driving in Iceland in January is an unforgettable journey for the adventurous and well-prepared traveler. It offers a unique chance to see the country in its most raw and powerful state, with the incredible rewards of the Northern Lights and breathtaking, snow-covered landscapes.

By choosing the right 4x4 vehicle, respecting the unpredictable weather, and planning your days around the limited light, you can safely explore the magic of an Icelandic winter. Höldur Car Rental is ready to equip you with a reliable and safe vehicle to ensure your journey is secure and memorable.

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