Photo of the Month - Changing Seasons in Iceland

The seasons are changing here in the Nordics and that also mean it's time for a new Nordic Photo of the Month! This past month, Iceland -- like most of the Nordic region -- has seen its first major snowfall of winter... 

Jana and Jesko travelled on the winter version of our Iceland Full Circle Tour, a self-drive journey around the 1,332 km Ring Road (Iceland's main highway). They visited Iceland in October, when you can see both the yellow and rust coloured leaves AND the northern lights glowing in the night sky. Win-win!

Below are more photographic highlights of their visit:

Jana and Jesko at the "hidden waterfall", Gljúfrabúi. We hand-mark this waterfall on road maps for all Nordic Visitor self-drive travellers.

Yes, snorkelling in Iceland! You can do this any time of year in Silfra at Þingvellir National Park.

The magical aurora borealis! The best time to see the northern lights in Iceland is October to April (weather and solar activity permitting).

Magic hour on the South Coast. Sunsets in October are around 5 to 6 PM. (See sunrise and sunset hours)

A beautiful scene from North Iceland. Notice the snow already taking hold on the peaks -- a good indication that winter isn't far away in October.

Says Jana of this experience: "The RIB-Boat Safari trip was with Gentle Giants in Húsavík, great fun and really mind blowing experience! We were so lucky to be this near (~6m) to a humpback! This trip will definitely never be forgotten. It was my personal highlight."

Strokkur, nearby Geysir at the Haukadalur geothermal area, spouts every 8-10 minutes.

Jana made her own waterfall! This is Litlanesfoss, near Hengifoss. "Hard steps to arrive, but it's worth it.", said Jana about the walk here.

Nope, this waterfall most certainly did not come out of a juice box. (Dettifoss, North Iceland)

Jana and Jesko celebrating an aurora sighting in the best possible way.

Thanks Jana and Jesko! They will win some cosy, thermal gear from our friends at 66° North for future trips to the Nordic countries.

Note: the location of the main image is Hraunfossar (Lava Falls) in West Iceland.

GOOD TO KNOW: Iceland's natural attractions don't close down after summer! You can access most sites year-round, like waterfalls, hot springs, rocky beaches, glacier lagoons are more. But make sure to opt for a 4x4 rental vehicle and read up on driving in Iceland, as the weather is unpredictable. You can experience all sorts of weather conditions in just a few days...or hours.

GO CHASING AURORAS: With a little luck and cooperative weather, you might get a fantastic northern lights show on your trip. If you want some tips on photographing the elusive aurora borealis -- or just staying warm on an evening excursion, our local staff dished out some good advice here.

One of Jana and Jesko's pictures will be the cover image on our Facebook page until another winner is chosen next month. Will you be our next winner? Learn more about the contest.

And don't forget to hashtag #NordicVisitor on your Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pictures!

• See more #NordicVisitor photos from our travelers and staff
• Get to know a little more about Iceland before you travel