Peak Season⭐ Top Pick

Reykjavik in December 2026

First-time arctic travellers who want to combine northern lights with Iceland's unique landscapes. Here's everything you need to plan your December visit.

✦7/10

🌡️ Weather in Reykjavik in December

1°C

Avg Temperature

cool to cold — insulated jacket and gloves

19h

Dark Hours / Night

Long dark nights — excellent aurora windows

🟢 High

Aurora Likelihood

December is prime aurora season — clear nights frequently deliver displays

December in Reykjavik sits at 1°C average, which is cool to cold — insulated jacket and gloves. Expect around 19 hours of darkness each night. Pack accordingly and check the detailed packing list below.

🌌 Northern Lights in December

🟢 High likelihood· Aurora score 7/10

Reykjavik has a base aurora score of 7/10. In December, conditions are optimal — long dark nights (19h), typically clear skies, and strong geomagnetic activity combine to make this one of the best aurora months here.

Tips for aurora chasing in December: Head away from town light pollution, check real-time Kp forecasts (apps like SpaceWeatherLive or My Aurora Forecast), and allow at least 3 nights to maximise your chances of a sighting.

Book a guided aurora tour with a local expert — they track forecasts obsessively and know the best viewpoints. Many operators offer "chase" trips that drive to clear sky patches.

🎯 What to Do in Reykjavik in December

✓Northern Lights Tours

✓Aurora Photography

✓Aurora Glass Cabin Stays

✓Snowshoeing

✓Whale Watching

✓Photography Tours

Activity availability depends on snow / ice conditions and local operator schedules. Always confirm in advance.

🎒 What to Pack for December in Reykjavik

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Moisture-wicking base layer, fleece jacket, and a wind/waterproof outer layer

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Sturdy waterproof footwear — conditions can turn quickly

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A warm hat and light gloves for evenings and windy conditions

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Camera with manual mode, wide-angle lens (f/2.8 or faster), and sturdy tripod

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Extra camera batteries — cold drains power fast; keep spares in an inner pocket

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Remote shutter release or intervalometer for long-exposure aurora shots

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Ski goggles or polarised sports glasses for snow glare

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Waterproof salopettes or snow trousers for multi-hour outdoor activities

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Dry bag for electronics; most operators provide drysuits but check in advance

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Sea sickness prevention if boat trips are planned

📦 View the full interactive packing list for Reykjavik →

🏨 Accommodation in December

Peak Season

This is peak season — book accommodation 2–4 months in advance. Expect prices around $100+/night for mid-range options. Popular choices include Boutique Hotels, Northern Lights City Hotels, Guesthouses. Aurora lodges and glass cabins sell out fastest.