7 Exhilarating Winter Adventures in Iceland

Winter in Iceland is a season of striking contrasts, where fire and ice coexist in breathtaking harmony. Volcanoes steam against snow-blanketed valleys, glaciers stretch toward the sea, and frozen waterfalls glisten beneath the pale Arctic light.

This is the time when Iceland reveals its wildest side, inviting you to explore dramatic landscapes and rare natural wonders. Whether heli-skiing down untouched mountain slopes, trekking across ancient glaciers, or diving between tectonic plates in the crystal-clear waters of Silfra, every adventure offers a glimpse into the island’s elemental beauty.

With so much on offer during this stunning season, we’ve shortlisted our six favorite outdoor activities when visiting Iceland in the winter…

1. Glacier Trekking on Sólheimajökull

Located on Iceland’s southern coast, Sólheimajökull is an outlet glacier of the mighty Mýrdalsjökull ice cap, known for its striking blue crevasses, ice ridges, and black volcanic ash formations. Constantly shifting and reshaping with the seasons, it offers a fascinating glimpse into the dynamic forces that define Iceland’s glacial landscape.

Embarking on a privately guided glacier trek here is one of the most exhilarating ways to experience Iceland’s frozen wilderness. With crampons strapped to sturdy boots and an ice axe in hand, you can make your way across the glacier’s ever-changing surface, navigating shimmering ice formations and deep crevasses that reveal layers of centuries-old ice.

Along the journey, your expert guide will share insight into the glacier’s formation, its movement, and how climate change continues to shape this extraordinary terrain. The vivid hues of blue ice set against the surrounding volcanic ash make Sólheimajökull both a photographer’s paradise and one of Iceland’s most iconic winter experiences.

DOWNLOAD OUR ICELAND WINTER JOURNEY PDF

2. Snorkeling or Scuba Diving in the Silfra Fissure

Set within Thingvellir National Park, the Silfra Fissure is one of the only places on Earth where you can swim directly between two tectonic plates: the North American and Eurasian. Fed by pure glacial meltwater from Langjökull Glacier and naturally filtered through volcanic rock for decades, Silfra’s waters are among the clearest in the world, offering visibility that can exceed 100 meters.

A private snorkeling or scuba diving excursion here invites you to drift through this ethereal rift, gliding over otherworldly rock formations illuminated in luminous shades of blue. Outfitted with a specialized dry suit, you’ll remain warm and buoyant as you explore the narrow fissure, where geology and serenity meet beneath the surface.

DOWNLOAD OUR ICELAND WINTER JOURNEY PDF

The surreal clarity, vivid colors, and rare geological setting make Silfra one of Iceland’s most unforgettable winter adventures, and an experience that feels like floating between continents.

3. Private Snowmobiling on Eyjafjallajökull Volcano

Dominating Iceland’s southern coastline, Eyjafjallajökull is a glacier-capped volcano that became world-famous after its 2010 eruption sent ash plumes across Europe. Today, it stands as a powerful reminder of Iceland’s fiery core beneath its frozen exterior.

We recommend a private snowmobiling adventure on Eyjafjallajökull, which offers a thrilling way to explore this legendary volcano. You’ll race across vast snowfields and icy ridges, surrounded by sweeping views of rugged mountains and the shimmering Atlantic Ocean below.

As you pause to take in the panorama, your guide will share stories of Eyjafjallajökull’s volcanic past and its role in shaping Iceland’s dramatic landscapes. The combination of high-speed excitement and raw natural grandeur makes this one of the country’s most exhilarating winter experiences.

DOWNLOAD OUR ICELAND WINTER JOURNEY PDF

4. Dog Sledding in Northern Iceland

Far from the bustle of the south, Northern Iceland offers some of the country’s most pristine winter landscapes, boasting endless snow-covered valleys, frozen lakes, and distant mountain horizons.

Here, you can embark on a private dog sledding adventure, which is a timeless Arctic pursuit that combines tradition, teamwork, and pure exhilaration. Led by a team of energetic huskies and guided by seasoned mushers, you’ll glide across the white expanse as the rhythmic sound of paws meets the stillness of the wilderness.

Along the route, you’ll gain insight into the deep bond between the mushers and their dogs and may even spot traces of Arctic wildlife in the snow. The blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and quiet thrill makes dog sledding one of the most authentic ways to connect with Iceland’s northern spirit.

5. Nordic Skiing on the Troll Peninsula

Stretching across northern Iceland, the Troll Peninsula is a land of sweeping valleys, dramatic peaks, and deep fjords carved by ancient glaciers. In winter, its pristine snowfields transform into a playground for Nordic skiing, offering an unforgettable way to explore Iceland’s Arctic wilderness at a slower, more meditative pace.

Enjoy a privately guided Nordic skiing excursion, gliding through untouched terrain where silence reigns and mountain vistas extend toward the North Atlantic. Whether tracing gentle coastal trails or tackling more challenging routes through the highlands, every turn reveals a new perspective of Iceland’s wild beauty.

DOWNLOAD OUR ICELAND WINTER JOURNEY PDF

Your expert guide will tailor the route to your experience and interests, ensuring a seamless balance of activity and serenity. The combination of crisp Arctic air, wide-open landscapes, and the rhythmic movement of skiing across snow makes this an invigorating and deeply grounding winter adventure.

6. Heli-Skiing on the Troll Peninsula

The Troll Peninsula is also home to some of the most exhilarating heli-skiing terrain in the world. From March through June, the region offers exceptional snow conditions and nearly endless daylight, creating ideal conditions for high-altitude adventure beneath the midnight sun.

We recommend staying at the iconic Deplar Farm in the Fljót Valley. From here, you’ll board a private helicopter for exclusive access to untouched slopes that descend toward the Arctic Ocean. Each run delivers a rush of pure freedom as you carve through pristine powder and take in panoramic views of the North Atlantic and Iceland’s rugged mountains all around.

Guided by seasoned experts, every descent is tailored to your skill level and sense of adventure. Heli-skiing here is not just an adrenaline rush; it’s the ultimate fusion of Arctic wilderness, luxury, and awe.

DOWNLOAD OUR ICELAND HELI-SKI JOURNEY PDF

7. Private Whale Watching in the Eyjafjörður Fjord

Framed by snowcapped mountains and serene coastal villages, Eyjafjörður Fjord on Iceland’s northern coast is one of the country’s most spectacular marine environments. Its deep, sheltered waters are a haven for humpback, minke, and occasionally blue whales that migrate here to feed during the spring and summer months.

During the winter months, we recommend a private whale watching tour so you can enjoy a front-row seat to this natural spectacle and experience the beauty of Iceland’s marine life in complete comfort and exclusivity. Accompanied by a marine expert, you’ll glide across the fjord and learn about the whales’ behaviors and the delicate ecosystem that sustains them.

As you watch the majestic creatures surface and breach against the backdrop of the Arctic mountains, you’ll understand why Eyjafjörður is considered one of the best whale watching destinations in the world.

Winter Adventures In Iceland

Iceland offers a striking blend of raw Arctic beauty and extraordinary adventure. Whether you’re soaring down untouched slopes on a heli-skiing expedition, trekking across ancient glaciers, diving between tectonic plates in Silfra, exploring crystal-blue ice caves, snowmobiling beneath the legendary Eyjafjallajökull volcano, or mushing through the northern wilderness on a dogsled, our bespoke itineraries ensure every moment is crafted to your sense of wonder.

Discover the magic of Iceland in the wintertime. To book one of our bespoke Iceland winter tours, contact one of our Travel Experts.

Tailor-Made Itineraries To Iceland

Discover the “The Land of Fire and Ice” with our bespoke luxury summer tour to Iceland…

VIEW OUR ICELAND WINTER TOUR