The crowds are running away from Iceland! But the dedicated travelers continue to go off the beaten path with Hidden Iceland

So is now the time to come to Iceland then? With melting glaciers and dropping numbers YES is the short answer! 

To learn more about how Hidden Iceland create unique tours aimed at the more dedicated travelers and returning tourists contact: ryan@hiddeniceland.is

Tourism Numbers drop

According to Statice the tourism numbers in the second quarter of 2019 have dropped by 20%. This continues the trend for the entire year with April reportedly being the worst hit with a 26% drop year on year. This is partially due to the WOWAir collapse but perhaps Iceland is no longer the 'hot new thing'. This allows the more dedicated travelers to enjoy Iceland with a little less tourists around. 

Winter in Iceland

It is quieter than summer despite there being northern lights, ice caves and a snow covered landscape. Make sure you travel with experienced drivers though as the roads can be difficult with a drop in temperarture and increased wind speeds. Wearing appropriate clothing is key to happiness in winter. Waterproofs from top to bottom and layers are all that is needed. How many layers is up to you.

Blue ice caves in winter

Ice caves are only safe (in the most part) to enter in the colder winter months. In spring they melt and collapse meaning local ice cave explorers need to discover new ones every season. A task getting more and more difficult due to climate change melting the glaciers. Every winter ice cave season is unique since new caves need to be discovered every year. 

Glacier hikes in winter

Can be enjoyed all year round but in winter the ice is bluer and snow often makes longer hikes a little easier, and more picturesque. Many of the glaciers that used to be a mainstay of tourist trips have melted so much that they are no longer safe to go onto. Even the glacier where Game of Thrones was filmed has not been immune. The next few years may be your last chance to walk on a glacier in any easy way. 

Northern Lights

Can be seen from early September all the way through to mid April. Getting out of Reykjavik is key though to enjoy the lights without the strong city street lights. Hidden Iceland run northern lights trips as part of a 2 day (or longer) package that includes other outdoor activities. 

Weather

Daylight gets shorter and shorter as you approach the solstice meaning the limited daylight hours you do get are often enjoyed as a golden sunrise and sunset. Wind can impact some excursions so some places become less accessible so make sure to check the forecast before booking anything. A terrain drenched in snow with northern lights above your head is well worth the bad weather days though. 

Hidden Iceland

Hidden Iceland only run private or small group tours. This means it'll never feel crowded anyway with a dedicated guide leading you across the country. They stop at the most popular spots, but at the right time of day to avoid any crowds. They also find hidden gems along the way or take you that little bit further to really immerse you in Iceland's nature. But they make sure your sleep overnight is warm and comfortable with great local cuisine and hot pools along the way. Winter time is when Hidden Iceland excel with their experienced and passionate guides keeping you safe and enjoying the solitude. 

To find out more contact Ryan Connolly, Marketing Manager at ryan@hiddeniceland.is

or go to: https://hiddeniceland.is/ for more details.