Iceland, the land of fire and ice, offers breathtaking landscapes and unique experiences year-round. However, deciding on the Best Time To Travel To Iceland can significantly impact your trip. From chasing the mesmerizing Northern Lights to hiking under the midnight sun, each season presents its own magic and challenges.
I explored Iceland during March and discovered it was an excellent choice for a first-time visit. Based on my experience and extensive research, this guide will delve into the ideal times to visit Iceland, considering factors like weather, daylight hours, specific activities, and crowd levels, to help you plan your perfect Icelandic adventure.
A lone hiker admires the panoramic view of a distant glacier from a verdant Icelandic mountain, captured on a clear day outside of Vík.
Understanding Iceland’s Seasons and What They Offer
Iceland’s seasons are distinct and dramatically influence what you can see and do. Understanding these differences is key to choosing the best time to travel to Iceland for your interests:
- Summer (June-August): Characterized by the midnight sun, long daylight hours (up to 24 hours!), and milder temperatures. Perfect for hiking, road trips, and exploring the highlands. However, it’s also the peak tourist season, with higher prices and more crowds, and no Northern Lights.
- Shoulder Seasons (April-May & September-October): Offer a balance. You’ll experience fewer crowds than summer, potentially lower prices, and a chance to see both the Northern Lights and enjoy some outdoor activities. Weather is more variable, but often manageable.
- Winter (November-March): The season of darkness and Northern Lights. Short daylight hours and cold, snowy conditions prevail. Ideal for Aurora hunting, ice caving, and winter sports. Some roads and attractions may be closed due to weather.
Best Time to Travel to Iceland for Specific Experiences
The best time to travel to Iceland truly depends on what you want to experience. Here’s a breakdown by activity:
Chasing the Northern Lights: September to March
To witness the Aurora Borealis, the best time to travel to Iceland is during the dark winter months, from September to March. The long, dark nights provide the ideal canvas for the lights to dance across the sky. For the highest chance of seeing a vibrant display, aim for the months around the equinoxes (March and September) when solar activity tends to be heightened. Clear, dark skies away from city lights are essential for optimal viewing.
Consider joining a guided Northern Lights tour to maximize your chances. Experts can track aurora forecasts and take you to the best viewing locations, away from light pollution. Some tours even offer a free second attempt if you don’t see the lights on your first outing.
The ethereal green glow of the Northern Lights illuminates the Icelandic night sky, a spectacle best witnessed during the winter months.
Hiking and Outdoor Adventures: June to August
Summer, from June to August, is undoubtedly the best time to travel to Iceland for hiking and outdoor adventures. The weather is at its most pleasant, with milder temperatures and long daylight hours, giving you ample time to explore. Most hiking trails, including those in the highlands and F-roads (mountain roads), are open during this period.
While I enjoyed some hiking in March, the colder temperatures and limited daylight meant shorter hikes and less comfortable conditions. Summer offers a much more enjoyable and extensive hiking experience.
Glacier Hiking and Ice Caves: November to March
For glacier hiking and exploring the magical blue ice caves, winter, specifically November to March, is generally considered the best time to travel to Iceland. While glacier hiking is possible year-round, ice caves are typically only accessible during the colder months when they are frozen and stable. March, as my glacier hiking guide mentioned, offers a sweet spot – the ice is solid enough for crampons to grip well, and conditions are generally favorable.
Summer glacier hikes are still possible, but ice caves are usually off-limits due to melting and instability. Moreover, summer ice can be slushier, potentially making glacier hikes less comfortable.
A joyful traveler beams inside a naturally formed ice cave during a guided glacier hike in Iceland, a winter highlight.
Whale Watching: April to September
Iceland is a world-renowned whale watching destination. The best time to travel to Iceland for whale watching is between April and September. During these months, many whale species, including humpback whales, minke whales, and even blue whales, migrate to Icelandic waters to feed. Some locations offer whale watching tours year-round, but sightings are most frequent in the summer months.
Boat tours depart from various locations around Iceland, including Reykjavik, Husavik (often called the whale watching capital of Iceland), and Akureyri.
Puffin Spotting: May to August
Puffins, those adorable “sea parrots,” are a major attraction in Iceland. The best time to travel to Iceland to see puffins is from May to August. These migratory birds arrive in late April or May to breed and nest along Iceland’s coasts before departing again in September. During these months, you can take boat tours to puffin colonies or spot them from coastal cliffs.
Month-by-Month Guide: What to Expect in Iceland
To further help you determine the best time to travel to Iceland, here’s a month-by-month breakdown of weather, daylight, and key activities:
January: Deep Winter and Northern Lights
January is one of the coldest and darkest months in Iceland. Expect average highs of 36°F (2°C) and lows of 28°F (-2°C) in Reykjavik, with short daylight hours (around 5.5 hours). Snowfall and strong winds are common.
- Pros: High chance of Northern Lights, winter wonderland landscapes, fewer crowds (except for New Year’s).
- Cons: Very cold, short daylight hours, potential road closures, limited hiking.
- Activities: Northern Lights hunting, ice caving, glacier hiking, winter sports, Reykjavik winter festivals.
January weather data for Reykjavik, Iceland, highlighting cold temperatures, limited daylight, and significant snowfall.
February: Increasing Daylight and Winter Charm
February is similar to January but with gradually increasing daylight hours. Temperatures remain cold, and snow is still prevalent.
- Pros: Good chance of Northern Lights, winter scenery, slightly longer days than January.
- Cons: Cold, still short daylight hours, winter conditions.
- Activities: Northern Lights viewing, ice cave tours, glacier walks, winter festivals.
March: Shoulder Season and Versatile Experiences
March, my chosen month, offers a fantastic shoulder season experience. Temperatures are still cool (averages around 38°F (3°C) high and 29°F (-2°C) low), but daylight increases significantly (almost 12 hours). Northern Lights are still visible, and you can enjoy glacier hiking and other winter activities without the peak winter crowds.
- Pros: Chance of Northern Lights, glacier hiking in good conditions, fewer crowds, longer daylight than earlier winter months.
- Cons: Still cold, unpredictable weather, some hiking trails may still be closed.
- Activities: Northern Lights hunting, glacier hiking, ice caving, exploring the Golden Circle and South Coast.
March weather averages in Reykjavik, Iceland, indicating slightly warmer temperatures and increased daylight hours compared to January and February.
April: Spring Emerges and Northern Lights Fades
April sees the arrival of spring, with temperatures gradually warming up (average high 42°F (6°C) and low 33°F (1°C)) and daylight hours increasing further. The chance of seeing the Northern Lights diminishes towards the end of the month.
- Pros: Improving weather, longer daylight, fewer crowds than summer, still a chance for Northern Lights in early April.
- Cons: Variable weather, some higher elevation roads may still be closed.
- Activities: Exploring South Coast and Golden Circle, hiking at lower elevations, whale watching season begins.
May: Pleasant Weather and Midnight Sun Approaches
May brings more pleasant weather with comfortable temperatures (average high 49°F (9°C) and low 39°F (4°C)) and long daylight hours (over 18 hours). Snow is rare in Reykjavik, and wind speeds decrease. The midnight sun is approaching, making Northern Lights viewing impossible.
- Pros: Pleasant weather, long daylight hours, Westfjords become accessible, fewer crowds than peak summer.
- Cons: No Northern Lights, some highland roads may still be closed early in May.
- Activities: Hiking, road trips (including Westfjords), whale watching, puffin watching season starts.
May weather data for Reykjavik, Iceland, showcasing the onset of milder temperatures, extended daylight, and minimal snowfall.
June: Midnight Sun and Peak Hiking Season
June marks the start of the midnight sun period, with nearly 21 hours of daylight. Weather is generally pleasant (average high 54°F (12°C) and low 45°F (7°C)), and mountain roads and hiking trails open up.
- Pros: Midnight sun, excellent hiking conditions, all roads and trails generally open.
- Cons: Peak tourist season, higher prices, no Northern Lights.
- Activities: Hiking in the highlands, road trips around the entire island, whale watching, puffin watching.
July: Warmest Weather and Peak Season
July is the warmest month in Iceland (average high 56°F (13°C) and low 48°F (9°C)), with continued midnight sun and long daylight hours. It’s peak tourist season.
- Pros: Warmest weather, midnight sun, ideal for all outdoor activities.
- Cons: Busiest and most expensive month, crowded attractions, no Northern Lights.
- Activities: Hiking, camping, road trips, festivals, whale watching, puffin watching.
July weather averages in Reykjavik, Iceland, confirming it as the warmest month with long daylight hours and minimal precipitation.
August: Lingering Summer and Northern Lights Return
August is similar to July in temperature (average high 56°F (13°C) and low 47°F (8°C)), but daylight hours start to decrease, and the Northern Lights may become visible at the very end of the month.
- Pros: Still good weather, puffin season continues, possible Northern Lights at the end of the month, slightly fewer crowds than July.
- Cons: Crowded, no guarantee of Northern Lights, prices still high.
- Activities: Hiking, road trips, whale watching, puffin watching, early Northern Lights viewing.
September: Autumn Colors and Aurora Season Begins
September marks the start of autumn, with temperatures cooling down (average high 51°F (11°C) and low 42°F (6°C)) and daylight hours decreasing significantly (around 13 hours). The Northern Lights season is in full swing.
- Pros: Good chance of Northern Lights, autumn foliage, fewer crowds than summer, still decent hiking weather.
- Cons: Weather becomes more unpredictable, some highland roads and trails start closing.
- Activities: Northern Lights hunting, hiking at lower elevations, exploring fall colors, whale watching.
September weather data for Reykjavik, Iceland, indicating cooler temperatures, decreasing daylight, and the return of precipitation.
October: Fall Foliage and Northern Lights Abundance
October sees further cooling (average high 44°F (7°C) and low 36°F (2°C)) and shorter daylight hours. Northern Lights viewing is excellent.
- Pros: High chance of Northern Lights, fall colors, fewer crowds, potentially lower prices.
- Cons: Cold and wet weather, some road closures possible, limited hiking at higher elevations.
- Activities: Northern Lights viewing, exploring fall landscapes, glacier hiking, Reykjavik International Film Festival.
November: Early Winter and Aurora Viewing
November is firmly in winter, with cold temperatures (average high 39°F (4°C) and low 32°F (0°C)), short daylight hours, and increasing snowfall. Northern Lights are highly likely.
- Pros: Excellent Northern Lights viewing, winter atmosphere, fewer tourists (except for Thanksgiving week).
- Cons: Cold, short days, potential for snowstorms and road closures.
- Activities: Northern Lights hunting, ice caving, glacier hiking, Reykjavik Iceland Airwaves music festival.
November weather averages in Reykjavik, Iceland, highlighting the onset of colder, darker, and snowier conditions.
December: Darkest Days and Festive Spirit
December is the darkest month in Iceland, with very short daylight hours (around 4.5 hours). Temperatures are cold (average high 37°F (3°C) and low 29°F (-2°C)), and snow is common. Northern Lights are very likely, and Reykjavik has a festive Christmas atmosphere.
- Pros: High chance of Northern Lights, Christmas markets and festive atmosphere, winter wonderland scenery.
- Cons: Very short daylight hours, cold, potential for winter storms.
- Activities: Northern Lights tours, Christmas and New Year celebrations, ice skating, winter markets.
A panoramic view of Reykjavik, Iceland, from above, showcasing the cityscape and surrounding mountains, taken during a March visit.
Dealing with Crowds and Costs in Iceland
Peak season in Iceland is during the summer months (June-August), which coincides with the best weather. This also means higher prices for flights, accommodations, and rental cars, as well as more crowded tourist attractions.
The shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) offer a good balance. You’ll likely find fewer crowds and potentially lower prices compared to summer, while still enjoying decent weather and a chance for Northern Lights or outdoor activities.
The cheapest time to visit Iceland is generally during the winter months (November-March), excluding the Christmas and New Year holiday period. While the weather is colder and daylight is limited, you can find significant deals on flights and accommodations.
Weather in Iceland: Always Be Prepared
Icelandic weather is notoriously unpredictable and can change rapidly. Regardless of when you visit, it’s essential to pack layers and be prepared for all types of weather, including rain, wind, sunshine, and even snow, potentially all in one day!
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Time to Visit Iceland
What is the cheapest time to go to Iceland?
The cheapest months to visit Iceland are generally September through November and January through May. You’ll often find better deals on flights and accommodations during these periods due to lower tourist demand.
How many days in Iceland is enough?
While you can experience some highlights in a few days, I recommend at least a week in Iceland to explore more thoroughly. A week allows you to comfortably see the Golden Circle, the South Coast, and perhaps the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. For a full Ring Road trip, 10 days or more is ideal.
How long is the flight from the US to Iceland?
Flights from the US to Iceland are relatively short compared to other European destinations. Direct flights from the East Coast (like New York City) take around 6 hours, while flights from the West Coast can take 8-10 hours or more.
A scenic road winds through the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Iceland, framed by the vast ocean and towering mountains, highlighting the diverse landscapes.
What time of year is Iceland the most beautiful?
Beauty is subjective, but Iceland is stunning year-round. Winter offers a dramatic landscape of snow and ice, with the added magic of the Northern Lights. Summer brings vibrant green landscapes, wildflowers, and long daylight hours. I found March, with its mix of winter and spring elements, to be exceptionally beautiful in its own way.
Do they speak English in Iceland?
Yes, English is widely spoken in Iceland. While learning a few basic Icelandic phrases is appreciated, you can easily navigate the country speaking only English.
Is Iceland expensive to visit?
Yes, Iceland is generally considered an expensive country. Accommodation, food, and transportation costs can be high. However, you can find ways to travel more affordably by choosing budget-friendly accommodations, cooking some of your own meals, and utilizing public transportation or budget rental car options.
Conclusion: Your Perfect Time to Visit Iceland Awaits
Ultimately, the best time to travel to Iceland is a personal decision based on your priorities and interests. Whether you dream of witnessing the Northern Lights, hiking through lush landscapes, or experiencing the midnight sun, Iceland has something incredible to offer in every season. Consider what you want to experience most, weigh the pros and cons of each season, and start planning your unforgettable Icelandic adventure!
