- Iceland's snow snakes form when wind sweeps snow across black-sand beaches
- This phenomenon occurs between November and March after mixed snow and hail
- Snow snakes are best seen on windy days following fresh snowfall on dark terrain
Iceland is popular among travellers for its stark contrasts of fire and ice. From freezing glaciers to vast black-sand beaches, the country offers diverse landscapes along with stunning views of the Northern Lights. On the country's southern shores, where dark sands meet winter snow, another extraordinary spectacle has begun to capture global attention - a phenomenon known as snow snakes. This eye-catching natural event happens when the area gets snow, rain, hail, and strong winds all within the same day. Freshly fallen snow is then swept across the black beaches by strong winds, creating the illusion of slithering snow snakes.
In a video shared on Instagram, content creator Asa Steinars offered a glimpse of this surreal sight. The clip shows snow snakes gliding across an icy lake, carried gracefully by roaring winds.
Check out the full video below:
Also Read: Finland vs Iceland: Where To See The Northern Lights For The Best Experience
Also Read: Take A Look At Iceland's Famous And Gorgeous "Diamond Beach" In Viral Video
How To See Iceland's Snow Snake Phenomenon
The best time to witness snow snakes in Iceland is between November and March. They are most likely to form after a mix of snow, rain, and hailstorms. You can spot them on open, dark terrain or black-sand beaches such as Reynisfjara, where strong winds easily lift fresh snow. Your best chance of seeing them is on windy days following a recent snowfall. Snow snakes appear when gusts blow across loose snow, creating long, snake-like formations that slide over the ground.
Top Things To Do In Iceland
1. Explore The Golden Circle
Visit Pingvellir National Park to walk between tectonic plates. The Strokkur geyser at the Geysir Geothermal Area and the iconic Gullfoss waterfall are other major highlights.
2. Relax In Geothermal Spas
You can't miss a dip in the milky-blue, mineral-rich waters of the world-famous Blue Lagoon or the oceanside Sky Lagoon.
3. Tour The South Coast
Travel to the Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls, and stroll along the dramatic Reynisfjara black-sand beach.
4. Visit Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon
Watch icebergs drift from a glacier into the sea at this spectacular lagoon in Vatnajokull National Park. If time allows, walk to nearby Diamond Beach to see shimmering ice chunks scattered across the black sand.
5. Hunt For The Northern Lights
The Northern Lights are best seen from late August to mid-April. Guided tours from Reykjavik take visitors to areas with clear, dark skies away from light pollution.
Whether you're chasing natural wonders or simply soaking in Iceland's dramatic landscapes, snow snakes add yet another magical reason to plan a winter escape.
