Top 10 Coldest Countries in the World Today

Prepare for a remarkable journey through frost and snow—from the vast wilderness of Russia to the icy beauty of Greenland and Alaska. This guide is packed with personal insights and emergency contacts to ensure your unforgettable adventure remains safe and comfortable.

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Exploring the Coldest Countries: Essential Travel Information

When venturing to some of the coldest corners on Earth, thorough preparation is your best companion.

I’ve personally navigated these icy realms and compiled practical advice to help you enjoy each destination fully, whether you’re chasing the Northern Lights, exploring snow-capped mountains, or immersing yourself in unique cultures adapted to extreme cold.

Russia—The Frozen Giant

Russia stretches across the largest landmass on Earth, offering some of the harshest winter conditions, especially in Siberia, where temperatures plunge below -50°C (-58°F). The cities of Yakutsk and Norilsk are known for their bone-chilling cold but stunning landscapes. Prepare for brutal winters by layering wool and thermal wear.

• Must see: Lake Baikal (frozen in winter), Red Square in Moscow, and the Trans-Siberian Railway journey.
• Safety tip: Beware of frostbite; carry emergency thermal blankets available in local shops.
• Stay: Quality hotels in Moscow and St. Petersburg offer extreme cold protection and indoor comfort.
• Costs: Mid-range daily budget $80–$120; luxury options available.
• When to visit: December to February for a full winter experience.
• Getting there: Major international airports in Moscow (SVO) and St. Petersburg (LED) connect globally.

Canada – Expansive Arctic Wilderness

Canada’s northern territories offer pristine snowfields and vibrant Indigenous cultures. Cities like Whitehorse and Yellowknife are gateways to the Arctic Circle. Winter sports enthusiasts will find unparalleled skiing and ice fishing opportunities.

• Must see: Northern Lights tours in Yellowknife and Banff National Park’s frozen waterfalls.
• Safety: Rental vehicles with four-wheel drive are necessary in rural icy areas.
• Stay: Cozy lodges and ice hotels create a unique overnight experience.
• Costs: Budget $100–$150 per day, including tours and accommodation.
• Best time: January to March for snow sports and Aurora Borealis.
• Access: Flights into Toronto (YYZ) or Vancouver (YVR), then regional flights north.

Mongolia—Steppe Cold with Nomadic Warmth

Mongolia’s frosty winters transform the vast steppe into an endless white expanse. The country’s nomadic culture provides visitors with a chance to stay in warm gers (yurts) and experience traditional hospitality despite the icy landscape.

• Highlights: Stay in a ger camp, visit frozen lakes, and the Gobi Desert’s winter calm.
• Safety: Prepare for remote travel; always have local guides.
• Accommodation: Ger camps for authentic experiences; Ulaanbaatar offers modern hotels.
• Typical cost: $50–$100 daily, very affordable especially outside peak seasons.
• When: November to February for true cold weather adventure.
• Getting there: International flights to Ulaanbaatar (ULN).

Norway – Arctic Aura and Fjord Spectacle

Norway combines icy wilderness with vibrant culture. The northern city of Tromsø is known as the “Gateway to the Arctic” and the perfect base for aurora chasers.

• Must-do: Northern Lights tours, fjord cruises, and Sami cultural experiences.
• Safety tips: Weather changes quickly; pack for wind and ice.
• Accommodation: Heated cabins, boutique hotels in cities.
• Budget: Approx. $120–$180 per day.
• Best time: December to March.
• Arrival: Oslo Airport (OSL) with domestic flights north.

Finland – The Land of a Thousand Lakes and Snow

Finland’s winter charm is elevated by its lively sauna culture and activities like husky sledding and ice swimming, embraced by locals despite the chill.

• Top experiences: Santa Claus Village, Northern Lights, winter sports.
• Travel safety: Stay warm with thermal layers and use public transport where possible.
• Where to sleep: Glass igloos and hotels geared for winter comfort.
• Costs: $100–$140 per day.
• Optimal visits: December through March.
• Access point: Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL).

Iceland – Fire, Ice, and Unforgettable Landscapes

Iceland offers jaw-dropping glacial scenery combined with geothermal spas like the Blue Lagoon, making it an extraordinary winter destination.

• Attractions: Golden Circle tours, glacier hikes, and Reykjavik’s cultural life.
• Travel advice: Rent a 4×4 vehicle equipped for ice, and book guided tours for safety.
• Lodging: Cozy guesthouses and hotels heated for cold nights.
• Expenses: $110–$160 per day.
• When to go: November through March for optimal winter activities.
• Fly into: Keflavik International Airport (KEF).

Greenland – Remote, Rugged, and Ice-Covered

As the coldest and most remote on this list, Greenland’s vast ice sheet and Inuit culture provide a singular Arctic experience.

• Must-see: Ilulissat Icefjord, dog sledding tours.
• Precautions: Travel with specialized guides; temperatures can drop below -30°C (-22°F).
• Accommodation: Limited but quality hotels mainly in coastal towns.
• Budget: On the higher side, expect $150+ daily.
• Timing: April to September for easier access, but winter visits possible.
• Getting there: Flights via Reykjavik or Copenhagen.

United States (Alaska) – Wild Frontiers and Northern Lights

Alaska offers vast wilderness, spectacular wildlife, and dramatic cold winters that are perfect for exploration by hardy visitors.

• Highlights: Denali National Park, Anchorage winter festivals, and glacial cruises.
• Tips: Rent thermal gear and car heaters; prepare for limited daylight.
• Where to stay: Comfortable lodges and hotels in Fairbanks, Anchorage.
• Typical costs: $120–$180 per day.
• Best months: December to March.
• Entry points: Anchorage (ANC) and Fairbanks (FAI).

Kazakhstan – Continental Cold and Vast Landscapes

Kazakhstan is less traveled for winter, but its wide steppes and mountain ranges offer magnificent cold-weather adventures with fewer crowds.

• Must-see: Almaty’s mountain resorts, Charyn Canyon in winter.
• Considerations: Cold can be harsh, pack extensively; hold a local SIM for emergencies.
• Stay: Modern hotels in Almaty and Nur-Sultan.
• Budget: More affordable; expect $50–$90 per day.
• When to go: December through February for full winter experience.
• Arrival: Almaty International Airport (ALA).

Sweden – Nordic Charm and Winter Sport Haven

Sweden blends cosmopolitan cities with fantastic winter landscapes, including ski resorts and the famous Icehotel.

• Experiences: Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi, Stockholm winter markets, northern lights.
• Safety: Public transport is highly organized; avoid walking on icy streets at night.
• Where to stay: Snow hotels, city hotels with heated comfort.
• Daily cost: $110–$160.
• Best season: December to March.
• Fly into: Stockholm Arlanda Airport (ARN).