travel to iceland in may

Iceland in May: What to Expect and How to Plan

Are you planning a trip to Iceland in May? With extended daylight hours and mild weather, May is an incredible time to visit the Land of Fire and Ice.

I personally LOVE the look of the partially snow-capped mountains, the purple lupins in bloom and the gorgeous green starting to take over after an icy winter.

In this blog post, I’ll cover everything you need to know to plan your trip, from the number of daylight hours to the weather to the festivals and happenings in May.

Let’s get into all things May in Iceland!

May Daylight Hours in Iceland 

The first and most important consideration if you’re planning a trip to Iceland in May is the number of daylight hours. 

At the beginning of May, there are 17 hours of daylight, which is pretty remarkable. And by the end of the month, there are 20 hours of daylight! By this point, the longest days of summer are upon us.

Lots of daylight hours mean you have LOTS of time for exploring! So this a huge perk of traveling to Iceland in May.

However, I do want to give one quick caveat!

Keep in mind that with so much daylight, it’s easy to lose track of time and keep driving late into the night.

While it may still be light outside, it’s important to be careful not to push yourself too far and become a danger on the road due to fatigue. So, take advantage of the extended May daylight hours…but remember to prioritize your safety!

Northern Lights In May In Iceland

The only con about lots of daylight in May? Increased daylight hours mean May in Iceland is not a great time to see the Northern lights. By the summertime, the sky simply doesn’t get dark enough.

So if the northern lights are a must-see for you, May might not be the best time for you!

Check out this blog post for more information on how to see the northern lights in Iceland! 

Iceland Weather In May

Another benefit to visiting Iceland in May? The weather! May in Iceland is a springtime paradise.

As the month progresses, the landscape begins to bloom, with green, lush surroundings appearing everywhere. May is particularly known for the lupine flower, a beautiful purple-like flower that can be found all over the country. 

Iceland Temperature In May

In terms of temperatures, May in Iceland is generally mild with an average range of 5 to 20 degrees Celsius (41° to 68° Fahrenheit).

From personal experience, I should say it’s rare for it to hit the higher range of that spectrum.

So make sure that if you’re traveling to Iceland in May, you’re still planning and packing for cooler temperatures!

Benefits of Visiting Iceland in May

I personally think May is one of the BEST times to visit Iceland.

Here’s why:

• It’s a time of extended daylight and minimal rainfall, making it a great time to explore the country’s many sights.
• For sightseers, almost all areas of Iceland are accessible in May, with the exception of the Highlands region, Landmannalaugar, Thórsmörk, and other areas with heavy snowfall. This makes it an exciting time for travelers who want to explore popular areas such as Reykjavik, Golden Circle, Ring Road, North Iceland, Snaefellsnes Peninsula, and the Westfjords!
• Another pro of visiting in May is that it’s still considered “shoulder” season, meaning that there are fewer tourists around than in the later summer months of June, July, and August. This makes it a great time to visit waterfalls, the Black Sand Beach, and other popular destinations without having to deal with large crowds!

Overall, May in Iceland is such a fantastic time to visit. 

Driving In Iceland In May

I’ve got more good news for you, Iceland family 🙂 

Driving in May in Iceland is EASY! Like, super easy.

There is a slight possibility you’ll run into some leftover snowfall in the north and in the Westfjords as those areas get heavy snowfall.

But if you do, it will be minimal and won’t affect your driving.

When it comes to driving around Iceland in May, it’s smooth sailing, especially if you stick to the main roads like the Ring Road and Golden Circle. 

In fact, a two-wheel drive will suffice for almost all areas except for the Westfjords. In that case, a four-wheel drive would be your best bet. If you’re unsure about which vehicle to choose, check out my ultimate guide to renting a car in Iceland. 

What To Pack For Iceland In May

I actually have an entire blog and packing list for traveling to Iceland in May , but I want to take this moment to spotlight a very important travel item.

And that item is an EYE MASK!

Trust me, friends…this little item will save you so many hours of insomnia. You can forget about tossing and turning, and not being able to sleep since the sun is still out. 

Iceland’s daylight hours are no joke, and an eye mask will be a lifesaver on your May trip to Iceland.

You can get the one I use off Amazon – here’s my all-time FAVORITE EYE MASK . 

Take my word for it…if you’re visiting in May, June, or July, you’re going to want a sleep mask!

Iceland Festivals & Happenings In May

Last up are the fun festivals, events, and holidays that happen during May!

The first one is called May Day. 

This isn’t quite the May Day or Labor Day you might be thinking of where people celebrate with a free day off work.

May Day in Iceland, is when the locals go around protesting things like equal wages and such. 

So if you’re in Reykjavik, keep in mind that you might see some protesters out on the street!

International Day For The Icelandic Horse

Another event that takes place in May in Iceland is the International Day for the Icelandic Horse. 

This is a special day when Icelanders celebrate the beloved, unique breed that is the Icelandic Horse.

The festivities take place over a weekend and include a parade in Reykjavik. If you’re interested in learning more about the Icelandic Horse and how to join a tour, be sure to check out my video all about Icelandic Horses!

Ascension Day 

Finally, Ascension Day is a Christian holiday that takes place 40 days after Easter.

It’s an important day for many locals, and businesses close to celebrate and eat a traditional meal with family. 

It’s essential to take note of the date for Easter to know when to expect this holiday, as the exact date changes every year! 

All in all, May is a fantastic time to visit Iceland. From the extended daylight hours to the mild weather to the accessibility of popular areas, May offers a lot of benefits for travelers. 

Whether you’re planning to drive, sightsee, or attend a festival, Iceland in May has a lot to offer. Just make sure to pack an eye mask for those bright daylight hours! 😉

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ICELAND IN MAY 2024

In this post I'll show you why I love May in Iceland.

Below, I'll answer all of your questions on:

- What to expect when visiting Iceland in May - Average weather and temperature in May - Special events - Best tours, activities & things to do

... and give you my very best, local insight and tips, to make your trip an unforgettable one here in Iceland in May!

Let's dive in!

IS MAY A GOOD TIME TO VISIT ICELAND?

Absolutely! You might have made the best decision by choosing to come here in May.

May is still off-season for Iceland, meaning you will miss the largest crowds of tourists (don’t expect to see few fellow travellers, though; even during off-season, Iceland is a popular destination). During the off-season, May is considered by many to be the best month to visit Iceland.

In May, the Icelandic nature comes back to life. The sun lingers in the sky for an impressive average of 19 hours in Reykjavik. Even though the sun technically sets, the sky doesn't get completely dark at all!

The temperatures rise, just enough to make your trip comfortable!

Therefore, coming to Iceland in May means that you can see and do many things that you couldn’t do or see in winter.

Below, I will guide you through all the best activities in May in Reykjavik, as well as around Iceland, and give you all the information you might need to make your trip even more amazing!

But hey! Before you start reading our awesome blog!

Did you know that Wake Up Reykjavík is also on YouTube !? And there we post loads of useful videos about everything Iceland related, sooo maybe you would want to become a subscriber!?

Check out our video about Iceland in May!

Now on to the awesome Blog!

WEATHER IN ICELAND IN MAY​

As far as Icelandic weather goes, May has the balmiest temperatures before summer. If you look at the graph, don't be put off by the temperatures that you see! Yes, the expected temperatures for May in Iceland range from an average of 5°C (41 F) to 10°C (50 F). However, as long as there is no wind, the cold in Iceland isn't...well, that cold. Icelandic people would consider these temperatures quite nice!

In May, there is hardly any rainfall. ​Even if it rains, it would be for a short period of time, and it certainly wouldn't be like a winter storm! You might see a little bit of snow, but only during the night. I promise you it will be gone by the time you wake up!

WHAT TO PACK FOR YOUR TRIP TO ICELAND IN MAY​

​The age-old question. Living in Iceland for a while now has taught me that the best way to dress is layers, layers, layers.

Having three layers of clothing is the golden rule in Iceland. The temperatures can vary vastly throughout the day, so when it's cold they'll keep you warm, and when it's warm, you can take them off.​

​Here is a packing list to help you prepare for your trip to Iceland in May:

• Thermals! Bring some good base layers to keep you warm when you explore Iceland, and make sure your tops are moisture-wicking to stay dry throughout the day.
• Sweaters and hoodies.
• Jeans, sweatpants or other comfortable clothes that you can wear while exploring the Icelandic nature!
• Good hiking boots for your adventures!
• Wind and rain-proof jacket. You'll want to stay dry when you visit the famous Icelandic waterfalls! If you can get a pair of pants, bring that too! You never know what the Icelandic weather will throw at you.
• A swimsuit and sunscreen. The May sun can be quite strong, and you definitely want to bring a swimsuit to visit the Icelandic hot springs!
• Some party clothes that you can wear in downtown Reykjavik's club scene -or restaurants if that's more of your thing.
• Your camera! You'll want to take a lot of pictures!

BEST TOURS & ACTIVITIES IN REYKJAVIK

Now that you know all the basics, let's check out all the fun activities you can do when you visit Iceland in May!

May is one of the best months to see Reykjavik on foot. The warmer temperatures will keep you comfortable, and the brilliant, lingering sunlight will let you see Reykjavik in all its glory.

​REYKJAVIK FOOD WALK

Reykjavik Food Walk tour is a must-do first or second activity for any traveller visiting Iceland.

It's the best way to get your bearing in Reykjavik while enjoying delicious Icelandic food! Our Reykjavik Food Walk is the #1 rated tour in Reykjavik on TripAdvisor, and for good reason! You will spend three hours on a foodie adventure with a fun local guide where you'll enjoy:

• All the highlights of the city of Reykjavik
• Five to five local restaurants that offer the best authentic Icelandic cuisine
• Over 8 mouth-watering Icelandic dishes
• Learning about Icelandic history and tradition, and forging friendships with some real vikings!

Learn more about the Reykjavik food walk here

EXPERIENCE THE ICELANDIC NATURE

It’s as if May in Iceland was created for us to enjoy the gorgeous nature that this country has to offer. May is the month when everything comes back to life, the earth awakens, and the scent of blooming flowers saturates the countryside air. Therefore, it is the best time to explore the Icelandic nature!

EXPLORE THE GOLDEN CIRCLE

The Golden Circle might be Iceland’s most famous trio of sights. The perfect way to see Icelandic nature if you only have a few hours to spare, the Golden Circle is close to Reykjavik and features the highlights of Iceland’s natural wonders.

Check out our Golden Circle Tours:

- Golden Circle x Natural Hot Spring tour (most popular)

- Small Group Golden Circle Tour

- Private Golden Circle Tour

- Super Jeep Golden Circle x Glacier Snowmobile tour

GOLDEN CIRCLE DESCRIPTION:

Our Golden Circle tour will take you first to Thingvellir National Park, where you can see one of my favorite waterfalls called Öxaráfoss. You will also walk between the two tectonic plates on which Iceland rests.

Then, you will see the magnificent waterfall Gullfoss. Gullfoss is truly a sight to behold, with its enormous power and beautiful surroundings. Particularly in May, the entire area around Gullfoss is painted green with colorful speckles provided by the blooming wildflowers.

Last but not least, we have the geothermal area of Geysir (photo above.)

Geysir erupts around every eight minutes, much to everyone’s delight.

During your drive the Golden Circle, you will also see a good bit of Icelandic nature, its glacial rivers and gorgeous landscapes.

Unlike other tours, our tour will also take you to Faxi waterfall, which glistens beautifully under the spring sun. If conditions allow for the driver to stop, you might get to see some Icelandic horses up close, too!

Photo taken from Secret Lagoon (from Golden Circle x Natural Hot Spring tour.)

TOUR OF THE SOUTH SHORE OF ICELAND

​Mighty waterfalls, a black sand beach, a small coastal town and a glacier are the highlights of this must-do tour. Since you're visiting in May, you might even get to see some puffins!

The South Shore of Iceland is a paradise on Earth. It is one of my favorite places to visit in Iceland (even though it's very hard to pick!), as it changes with the seasons and there is always something new to discover!

​Our South Shore tour will show you all the highlights of the Icelandic nature, as well as some places that other tours won't show you! Join our tour and see:

• Seljalandsfoss waterfall. Seljalandsfoss is one of the most magical waterfalls in all of Iceland -or dare I say, in the world. Not only can you admire its beauty from the front, you can also walk behind it! Trust me, you will feel like a mythical creature from an Icelandic saga!
• Skógafoss waterfall. Just as majestic as Seljaladsfoss, Skógafoss is one of Iceland's biggest waterfalls. It measures at an impressive 60m (200 ft). Therefore, it's very powerful and sprays a lot of water. As a result, you can often see a single or even a double rainbow!
• puffins! May is truly one of the best times to see puffins in Iceland. The stop at Dyrhólaey is an excellent chance to spot them on the cliffs!
• Reynisfjara or Black Sand beach. This almost alien beach stretches as far as the eye can see. On one side, the ocean crashes against the shore, and on the other the beach is adorned with beautiful basalt column formations. In the distance, you can see some strange rocks in the ocean. Legend says they were once trolls!
• the coastal town of Vík. A charming little town with an unmistakably Icelandic atmosphere.
• Solheimajokull glacier. Most tours won't show you this magnificent glacier. We will walk you right up to it so you can touch it, and maybe discover an ice cave if you are lucky!

​ Learn more about the South Shore tour here!

DISCOVER THE ICELANDIC WILDLIFE

If there is one thing that Iceland is known for, that is its nature. Both locals and visitors are enamored by it and for good reason. The untouched Icelandic nature will be the highlight of your trip.

One of the best parts of the Icelandic nature, in my opinion, is the wildlife. Iceland is home to many adorable little critters, and you can get to meet them with our tours!​

PUFFIN TOUR​

As I mentioned before, May is one of the best months to visit Iceland if you are looking for puffins. These beautiful birds build their nests on Iceland's cliffs, and while they are a little cautious of humans, they are not at all shy!

You can try your luck at seeing puffins in our South Shore tour .

However, if you want something closer to Reykjavik, we have a puffin tour designed specifically to take you as close to the puffins as possible!​​

This is the perfect tour for people who want to increase their chances to see puffins. You will also get to see more of Iceland's wildlife, as well as panoramic views of the gorgeous city of Reykjavik!​

You can learn more about the puffin tour here!​

WHALE WATCHING TOUR

​Whales are truly magnificent creatures. Their impressive size and playful manners make our whale watching tour a true spectacle!

You can see these beautiful animals very close to Reykjavik, mainly Minke and Humpback whales. You will also get to see more of Iceland's amazing wildlife, several bird species, but also harbor porpoises and dolphins!​

Learn more about our whale watching tour here!​

HORSEBACK RIDING TOUR

Did you know the Icelandic horse has five gaits (two more than most breeds)? That's right, these stars love to steal the show with their natural talent! ​

While you can see Icelandic horses anywhere in Iceland -even in Reykjavik -you don't get the chance to ride one every day. So why not go horseback riding on these incredibly gentle creatures? May is a great month to go horseback riding in Iceland, as the weather is usually very nice!

Our horseback riding tour is minutes from Reykjavik and you can explore the unspoiled Icelandic nature with your new furry friends!​ If you've never ridden a horse before, don't worry! We'll show you the ropes!

Learn more about this amazing tour here!​

EXPERIENCE THE ADVENTURE OF A LIFETIME

Glacier hike & waterfall tour​.

Have you always dreamed of going glacier hiking in Iceland? Who hasn't! Iceland's glaciers are awe-inspiring and seeing one up close is an unforgettable experience.

May is one of the first months of the year I would recommend to someone to go glacier hiking. As the temperatures rise, the conditions on the glaciers are much more favorable. Your hike won't be as challenging and the weather will be in your favor. ​

Our glacier hiking & waterfalls tour will take you through the south coast where you'll see some of my favorite waterfalls in Iceland to Sólheimajökull glacier. Get ready to conquer this icy beast and have the most excitement you can handle!

Learn more about this sightseeing adventure tour here!​

SNOWMOBILE GLACIER TOUR​

Not much of a hiking type? Your fellow asthmatic over here gets it. Sometimes you want to enjoy the good weather conditions in May, on a beautiful Icelandic glacier, without having to pant your way through the tour.

No worries! That's why we have this awesome snowmobile tour !​ Our tour will take you to Langjökull, Europe's second-biggest glacier for the adventure of a lifetime.

An experienced guide will show you all the best routes on the glacier (and keep an eye on you, you rascal), so you can blaze your way through the ice!​

Thrill-seekers, you can find more information about this tour here!​

SNORKELING IN SILFRA

If you've been to the Golden Circle, then you know Silfra as the fissure with the crystal-clear glacial water that runs through Thingvellir ( if you haven't been to the Golden Circle, join our tour !)

Silfra is the fissure between the European and the North American tectonic plates. Snorkeling there is a once-in-a-lifetime experience! The water is so clear that you can see even the smallest details around you, and you will feel as if you've been transported to a different world. ​In fact, you can easily see 100m down!

It's no wonder that Silfra is one of the best diving places in the world. Also, May is one of the best times to snorkel in Silfra due to the weather being nice!

Find out more about this tour here!​ ​

LOOKING FOR MORE TOURS?

These tours are my personal suggestions to you, from one explorer and traveler to another. Don't forget to check out our other tours, too, though! Pro tip: book ahead to ensure that you get a spot!

See All Tours

CAN YOU SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS IN ICELAND IN MAY?

In a word, no. While May usually has clear skies (a must for seeing the northern lights), it's also just too bright. The sun likes to hang around a bit too much for us to see the northern lights. Check out this graph that shows how much daylight there is in May in Reykjavik.

While you can't see the northern lights in Iceland in May, you can still enjoy the sun! The long days will be unlike anything you have experienced before! The several hours of daylight in May will allow you to see and explore much more of the Icelandic nature than you could in winter. Besides, it's always surreal and very fun to spend your nights under a midnight sun!

EVENTS & FESTIVALS IN ICELAND IN MAY

​So you've done the tours. You've seen the nature. You've explored Reykjavik and Iceland. Is there anything special you can see in Iceland in May?

Absolutely! ​Keep reading to find out about all the events you can attend in Iceland in May!

1. LABOR DAY

Suffice to say that Labor Day is a very important day in Iceland. ​Equality and fairness have always been important to Icelanders, and the first protest march in Iceland was in May 1st 1932.

Nowadays, protesters are accompanied by brass bands​ as they walk around the cities and towns of Iceland. While Labor Day is celebrated in many places, the largest march is definitely in Reykjavik. 

Icelandic protests are always peaceful, so don't worry about any trouble.​ Most people march to protest anything they find unfair in the workplace, but others just join the long walk just because they like to walk around the city.

2. Saga Fest

Saga Fest is a two-day festival taking place every year near Selfoss (very close to Reykjavik!). It's held in a farm, which only adds to the charm of the festival.

​Saga Fest is all about connecting to nature and each other through storytelling. Artists not only perform, but can also collaborate with the audience, and everything is based on sustainability, as well as the Icelandic sagas.

It truly is an amazing festival, with an almost electric atmosphere. There is a big sense of community even among strangers, and you are bound to make some friends if you attend!

You can learn more about Saga Fest on their official website !​

​RECOMMENDATIONS FROM A LOCAL

Would this blog be a real blog without some personal recommendations from a local? I don't think so!

May in Iceland is one of my favorite months. I love how the nature changes so rapidly in preparation for the summer! Everything blooms, the land comes to life, and the sun likes to hang out with us all day long!

I have a couple of tips for you for when you visit Iceland in May. Keep reading to find out what I love to do when May comes!

1. GO TO REYKJADALUR

It's hard to pick a favorite spot in Iceland. There are so many beautiful waterfalls, gorgeous mountains and enchanting glaciers, you don't know where to start! One of my absolute favorite spots, though, has to be Reykjadalur.​

Reykjadalur is a natural hot spring river. Icelanders have been using it for centuries as a bathing spot, and I'm not surprised it's that popular. The water is perfectly warm, and you can find your ideal temperature as the river gets warmer the further up you go.​

In May, the sun shines beautifully on the valley where this river rests. The place is idyllic, with green grass growing on the rolling hills and steam coming from the river and the nearby (very!) hot springs. You might even see some sheep!

There is a bit of a hike to get to the valley of Reykjadalur, but it's worth it. Even the hike itself is beautiful, with great views and a waterfall you can see from afar.​

Once you get to the top, you will be rewarded with one of the most relaxing soaks of your life, right in the middle of the Icelandic nature!

Wanna find out about more hot springs in Iceland? Check out this guide! Or maybe hiking is more of your thing? We've got​ you covered!

2. WALK AROUND REYKJAVIK

Allow yourself to get lost in the little streets all around Reykjavik. The famous sights are definitely something you should see, but I think the real beauty of Reykjavik reveals itself when you just wander around. 

Venture where other tourists don't. Don't bring a map. Don't look up places on your phone. Just walk and admire the incredible architecture, the colorful buildings and the amazing graffiti that adorns a lot of the walls in downtown Reykjavik. 

Besides, the weather in May is so good that you can't pass up an opportunity to see as much of the city as possible! The golden hour is also perfect to take pictures, especially since in May it lasts much longer than an hour!

If you want to walk around Reykjavik with a local, learn everything you want to know about the city, and also eat some delicious traditional Icelandic food, why not join our top-rated Reykjavik food tour ?

SOME LAST WORDS

​May is truly one of the best times to visit Iceland. You will have the time of your life and experience all the best that Iceland has to offer.

I hope my guide was helpful! Don't hesitate to reach out through the comments if you have any questions, and definitely let me know if you liked the article! Feel free to share with anyone who wants to learn a little bit more about Iceland or is planning a trip here!​

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May in Iceland | The Best Way To Do Iceland in May

Updated April 2022

May is a beautiful month to visit the island of ice and fire. The terrain is now green and flowery and the waterfalls even more powerful. It is close enough to the summer season so the weather is warmer and the summer tours have opened up but still not close enough to have high peak prices yet. This means that May in Iceland is a bit of a shoulder season that delightfully results in lower prices and fewer tourists!

May is a wonderful time to travel around Iceland and road trips are greatly recommended. Likewise, will a trip around the famous Ring Road be one to remember: Just you, the open roads and untouched nature shared only by a few cute lambs and the locals. The weather is lovely and balmy, the midnight sun has started to share its charm and the puffins have already landed.

If you haven’t realized already, we will bluntly tell you: May might just be the perfect time of the year to visit Iceland !

Weather in May in Iceland

May is known as a mild month when it comes to the weather. Its average temperatures range from 4°c to 10°c (about 40°-50° Fahrenheit) and brightness and daylight are the dominant features. May is the month that the trees start to bud, the flowers begin their colorful blooming season and the baby lambs, foals and calves gleefully play in the vast open fields.

Nevertheless, May is often followed by a bit of rain which though, thankfully, is known to stay only a short time. Keep this in mind when deciding what to pack for your trip. May is the first month we start to see some actual warmth and much celebrated double digits are common!  

Daylight in May in Iceland

June is undoubtedly the month of daylight in Iceland but it is followed closely by the month of May. At the beginning of the month, you will have about 13,3 hours of daylight to enjoy but by the end, that number is up by more than three hours. This means that by the end of May we have about 16 hours and 40 minutes of daylight. Yet another reason why May is such a great time to visit Iceland .

Northern Lights in May in Iceland

The only downside to this abundant of daylight that May brings us is the challenge it provokes for Northern Light watching. However, on a more positive note, many consider May to be the absolute last month of the season to spot them and they are known to appear in many colors right at the beginning and end of all seasons. So, you are not completely hopeless in your quest for the lights. Just keep in mind that the sky needs to be pitch black for our favorite dancing pastel colors to pop out so the later you go out the better.

What to Pack for Iceland in May

The packing list for Iceland looks surprisingly similar each month. Even though the country is named after ice and is therefore often considered among the most Arctic places to visit the weather, in recent times, has proven to be quite steady over the year. There isn’t as much of a drastic shift in seasons as there was before and as a result, the ‘ What to Pack for Iceland ’ list is looking more and more the same no matter when you plan on visiting.

The basic things you will always need in Iceland :

• Base Layer: Wool Underwear/Thermals
• Thick Socks (more than usual)
• Mid Layer: Sweater, Fleece or Thermal Insulation Garment
• Pants that are easy to move in
• Hiking Boots
• Water/Windproof Jacket
• Bathing Suit
• Lip Balm (you will know why when you land)

But, for May you might also want to bring

• Light Jacket

What to do in May in Iceland

Visit the Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Snaefellsnes is home to the mighty Kirkjufell mountain, Stykkisholmur fishing village, the black Budarkirkja church and Berserkjahraun lava field. In its center you can’t help but see the towering Snaefellsjokull glacier made famous by the Jules Verne book ‘Journey to the Center of the Earth’ and by the coastline are rugged yet stunning views enjoyed in common with the Arctic seals that nestle around the beaches.

The area as a whole is easy to get around, less affected by the snow like Iceland ‘s more Northern locations and ideal for a road trip in May.

Make sure to stop at Krauma Geothermal Baths which waters are naturally sourced from the neighboring hot spring, Deildartunguhver . Famous for being the most powerful hot spring in Europe .

Join a Puffin Watching Tour

Many locals will say that spring arrives with these feathered bundles of adorableness and we completely agree. The first spotting of a puffin will make the headlines and soon they have turned Iceland into Europe ’s largest puffin colony. You can find them in numerous places around Iceland including, Dyrholaey , Ingolfshofdi, the Westman Island s , the Westfjords and even in the small islands surrounding Reykjavik!

Take a dip in a Local Swimming Pool

There is no faster way to take in a country’s culture than through the art of bathing in it. This is quite literally what you will be doing if you take bathe in one of the many local swimming pools found around the island. In Iceland, the  population of about 150 people is considered a sufficient reason to build a swimming pool so you will have no trouble finding one.

Whether you are looking to challenge your inner Michael Phelps or simply want to relax in the hot tubs these places are true gems on Iceland ’s royal crown and you can’t miss out on.

Visit a local swimming pool and bare witness to how Icelanders deal with the winter’s darkness and the cold weather. But also, how they harness the geothermal activity their grounds provide.

May often brings that perfect weather for outdoor activities and hiking is one of the more budget-friendly things you can do in Iceland. Mount Helgafell and Mount Esja are very popular hiking trails near Reykjavik and free to do. They are also very well marked!

Other hiking places further out worth attention are Thorsmork , Landmannalaugar and Reykjadalur!

Events and Festivals in May in Iceland

1st of may – international workers day  .

International Workers Day is celebrated in Iceland on the 1st of May and can often affect opening hours of public businesses and shops. Keep it in mind when planning your trip.

1st of May – Day of the Icelandic Horse

On this day all the horse societies around Iceland will host events relating to the Icelandic Horse.  Simply sign up for a horse riding tour to celebrate!

The Icelandic Mother’s Day

The second Sunday in May is Mother’s Day in Iceland . It was first celebrated in 1934 and has been an annual event since.  It is the perfect occasion to treat your mother to a great meal, an adventure tour or simply a hug! Many Icelanders like to buy flowers, a cake or a small gift.

Driving around Iceland in May

In May the weather should be warmer and calmer than it has been in the months before. Even though we might not entirely have reached the summer months yet the snow and icy roads should now be behind us. Hopefully resulting in the perfect road trip conditions.

Still, it is important to keep in mind that we are talking about Iceland and the weather in Iceland is known to act out. If it were a beast it most certainly would be an untamed one and it is better to be prepared than to get surprised. Make sure to check the road conditions before setting off each day. This will give you the chance to feel free and relaxed on your trip to Iceland . Leaving you without worries about rapid weather changes or difficult road conditions and plenty of room to enjoy!

Top Trips to Enjoy in May

As you can easily see, May is perfect for shorter road-trips , which have the ring road around Iceland in the spotlight. Enjoy a flexible and stress-free travelling with pre-booked hotel nights and r ental car, plus the Iceland Travel’s comprehensive electronic road book. Use the I celand Travel Companion App with over a thousand interesting points of interest to help each day.  We will make sure to offer the best cars and itineraries for the road conditions as our focus is everyone’s safety.

Ideal activities to include in a May vacation include puffin watching , whale watching and river rafting fun .

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Iceland in May – Weather, Things to Do & What to Expect

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If you plan to visit Iceland in May, this information will help you to know what to expect when traveling during this month.

That includes road conditions, what to wear/pack, what makes it worth it to visit during that month, some tips on driving in that time, top activities, and events that happen annually during this month.

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Weather During May in Iceland

Iceland’s weather in May is typically mild, but the variability is something you should always prepare for. The average temperature ranges from 4-10°C (40-50°F). There’s a noticeable uptick in the weather around this time, as it transitions from the icy clutches of winter into the softer breezes of spring. Rain is always a possibility in Iceland, so you should expect a few showers during your visit.

While it doesn’t normally snow during May, we did have some hail showers last month.

Day Light Hours to Expect in Iceland During May

One of the most notable features about Iceland in May is the rapid increase in daylight hours. The sun sets late and rises early, so expect almost 24-hour daylight, a phenomenon known as the ‘midnight sun’. This extended daylight offers more time for exploration and enjoying the stunning landscapes of Iceland.

May 1 st –  16 hours and 50 minutes

May 15 th – 18 hours and 23 minutes

May 31 st –  20 hours

What to Wear in May in Iceland

Given the unpredictability of the weather, layering is key when packing for Iceland in May. Start with thermal undergarments, then add a layer of warm clothes, such as a fleece jacket or a wool sweater. Make sure to pack waterproof outer layers, like a good-quality rain jacket and pants. Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are also essential. Don’t forget gloves, a warm hat, and a scarf. On a sunny day, you might even need sunglasses and sunscreen.

My Ultimate Packing Checklist is linked in the show notes and will provide you with everything you need to bring. I recommend following the summer list. Just know that it can be a little chilly during the evening in May, especially in the north, so you will need some layers.

Road Conditions & Driving in Iceland in May

By May, most roads, including the famous Ring Road that circles the country, are usually clear of snow and ice, making it easier to get around. However, highland roads (F-roads) generally remain closed until late June.

It’s always a good idea to check the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration website for up-to-date information. Driving conditions are typically good in May, but always be cautious, as Icelandic weather can change quickly.

Why You Should Visit Iceland in May

May is a great time to visit Iceland due to its extended daylight hours, relatively mild weather, and fewer tourists compared to the summer months. The flora begins to bloom, providing stunning backdrops for your photos. Moreover, many migratory birds, including puffins, arrive in Iceland in May, making it a great time for birdwatching.

Top Activities to Do in May

• Whale Watching: May is a great time for whale watching, with a variety of species active in the surrounding seas.
• Bird Watching: Visit the cliffs of Látrabjarg and Hornbjarg to see puffins and other migratory birds.
• Hiking: Take advantage of the long days and mild weather to explore Iceland’s beautiful trails. Popular locations include the Skógafoss Waterfall, Þingvellir National Park, and all along the south coast.
• Hot Springs and Geothermal Baths: Relax in natural hot springs and geothermal baths like the Blue Lagoon or Mývatn Nature Baths.
• Road Trips! Travel around the country and see the natural attractions during this season.

May Events and Holidays in Iceland:

• This international holiday is observed on May 1st. It is most commonly associated as a commemoration of the achievements of the labour movement. The holiday may also be known as International Worker’s Day or May Day and is marked with a public holiday in over 80 countries.
• Ascension Day is a public holiday in Iceland, usually celebrated with outdoor activities, including hikes and barbecues.
• Reykjavik Arts Festival : Held every two years, this is a major event in Iceland’s cultural calendar, featuring a range of visual and performing arts. The dates vary. Sometimes it is during May or June or spanning across both.

Random Fact of the Episode

During my first May in Iceland in 2017 it snowed off and on for a week. I was afraid that winter would never end. LOL

Icelandic Word of the Episode

Maí – May

Previous Episodes About Months in Iceland

• January in Iceland
• February in Iceland
• March in Iceland
• April in Iceland

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Tours & Vacation

Iceland in May: A Comprehensive Guide to Visiting the Land of Fire and Ice

May in Iceland is a magical time of year. The weather begins to warm, the days grow longer, and the country’s stunning landscapes come alive with vibrant colors. Whether you’re looking to explore Reykjavik in May or venture into the rugged wilderness, there are countless things to do in Iceland in May . This guide will cover everything you need to know, from weather in Iceland in May  to the best activities and sights to make your trip unforgettable.

Weather in Iceland in May

Iceland weather in May  is generally mild and more predictable compared to the winter months. Daytime temperatures range from 4°C (39°F) to 10°C (50°F), making it a pleasant time for outdoor activities. Reykjavik weather in May  can be slightly cooler due to its coastal location, but it’s still comfortable for sightseeing and exploring the city.

The increase in daylight hours is one of the most significant changes in Iceland in May . By the end of the month, you can experience up to 20 hours of daylight, which provides ample time to take in the breathtaking scenery and participate in various activities.

Things to Do in Iceland in May

May is an excellent time to explore Iceland’s diverse landscapes and engage in various outdoor adventures. Here are some of the best things to do in Iceland in May :

1. Explore Reykjavik

Reykjavik in May  is bustling with activities. You can explore the city’s vibrant art scene, enjoy the local cuisine, and visit iconic landmarks such as Hallgrimskirkja Church and Harpa Concert Hall. The city’s numerous parks and geothermal pools are also perfect for relaxing and unwinding.

2. Golden Circle Tour

A trip to Iceland wouldn’t be complete without touring the Golden Circle. This popular route includes Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss Waterfall, and the Geysir geothermal area. The milder weather in Iceland in May  makes it ideal for exploring these natural wonders.

3. Visit Waterfalls

Iceland is home to numerous stunning waterfalls, and May is a great time to visit them. Some of the must-see waterfalls include Seljalandsfoss , Skogafoss , and Godafoss . The melting snow and increased rainfall make these waterfalls particularly impressive in spring.

4. Whale Watching

May marks the beginning of the whale watching season in Iceland. You can join a whale watching tour from Reykjavik or Husavik and spot various species such as humpback whales, minke whales, and dolphins.

5. Hiking and Nature Walks

The longer days and mild temperatures make May perfect for hiking. Popular trails include those in the Vatnajokull National Park and the trails around the Landmannalaugar area. These trails offer stunning views of glaciers, hot springs, and colorful rhyolite mountains.

6. Relax in Hot Springs

After a day of exploring, there’s nothing better than soaking in one of Iceland’s natural hot springs. The Blue Lagoon is the most famous, but there are many other geothermal pools to discover, such as the Secret Lagoon and Myvatn Nature Baths.

7. Exploring Ice Caves

While ice caves are typically associated with winter, some caves, like those in the Vatnajokull glacier, are accessible in May. Guided tours provide a unique opportunity to see the mesmerizing blue ice formations.

Northern Lights in May

One of the common questions travelers have is whether they can see the Northern Lights in May. Northern Lights Iceland May  is a tricky subject, as the increasing daylight hours reduce the chances of seeing the auroras. However, early May still offers a slim chance, especially if you are in a dark area away from city lights.

Can You See the Northern Lights in May in Iceland?

While it’s possible, it’s not guaranteed. The best chances are during the first half of May, and you would need to be in areas with minimal light pollution. For those determined to catch a glimpse, consider joining a guided Northern Lights tour.

Why Visit Iceland in May?

Is May a good time to visit Iceland?  Absolutely. The combination of mild weather, longer days, and fewer tourists makes it an ideal time to explore the country. Here are some additional reasons why May is a good time to go to Iceland :

Fewer crowds:  Compared to the summer months, May sees fewer tourists, allowing you to enjoy popular attractions with less hassle.

Lower prices:  Accommodation and flights are generally cheaper in May than in the peak summer season.

Bird watching:  May is a prime time for bird watching, especially puffins, which start nesting along the coast.

Spring festivals:  Experience local culture through various spring festivals and events, such as the Reykjavik Arts Festival.

Practical Tips for Visiting Iceland in May

1. what to pack.

Layers:  The weather can be unpredictable, so packing layers is essential. Include a waterproof jacket, thermal layers, and comfortable hiking boots.

Swimwear:  Don’t forget your swimwear for the hot springs and geothermal pools.

Daylight:  Bring an eye mask if you’re sensitive to light, as the long daylight hours can make it difficult to sleep.

2. Renting a Car

Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring Iceland at your own pace. Roads are generally in good condition, but always check the weather and road conditions before heading out.

3. Fuel Prices

Fuel prices in Iceland are relatively high. As of 2024, the average price of gasoline is around 240 ISK per liter (approximately $1.85 USD). Diesel prices are slightly lower. Plan your budget accordingly and consider renting a fuel-efficient vehicle.

4. Currency and Payments

The currency in Iceland is the Icelandic Krona (ISK). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it’s always good to have some cash on hand for small purchases.

5. Language

English is widely spoken in Iceland, so communication shouldn’t be an issue. However, learning a few basic Icelandic phrases can be appreciated by locals.

Frequently Asked Questions About Iceland in May

Is it a good time to go to iceland in may.

Yes, May is a fantastic time to visit Iceland due to the mild weather, extended daylight hours, and fewer tourists compared to the peak summer months.

Can I see Northern Lights in May in Iceland?

There is a slim chance of seeing the Northern Lights in early May, but as the month progresses and the days get longer, the chances diminish significantly.

Can I see the Northern Lights in May?

While possible, it’s not very likely due to the increased daylight hours. For better chances, consider visiting between September and April.

What are the best months to visit Iceland?

The best months to visit Iceland are typically from June to August for summer activities and from September to April for Northern Lights and winter adventures.

Planning your trip to Iceland in May offers a blend of adventure and tranquility, making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking both natural beauty and cultural experiences. Whether you’re exploring Reykjavik, embarking on a Golden Circle tour, or soaking in hot springs, visiting Iceland in May  promises unforgettable memories. For more information and travel tips, visit Travel to Iceland .

By following this guide, you will be well-prepared to enjoy the best things to do in Iceland in May , from witnessing the majestic waterfalls to relaxing in geothermal pools. Embrace the mild weather and longer days as you explore this incredible destination.

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Visiting Iceland in May: A Comprehensive Travel Guide

Iceland becomes a beauty to behold by May. Nature becomes lively, spring and early summer flowers begin to bloom. The weather gets warm, especially in South Iceland. The mountains around the capital city of Reykjavik are covered in snow. It is in this month that Iceland becomes a paradise for every tourist. The daybreak comes early and the evenings are bright. The Nordic country becomes a perfect place for outdoor activities such as picnics, outdoor drinks, and dining.

Best Iceland Day tours in May

South Coast & Glacier Hike

From 24,900 isk.

Golden Circle Tour of Iceland

From 11,500 isk.

Snaefellsnes Peninsula & National Park

From 18,900 isk.

Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon Tour

From 23,990 isk.

Katla Ice cave & South Coast | Tour from Reykjavik

From 36,900 isk.

South Coast of Iceland – Glaciers, Waterfalls & Black Sand Beaches

From 15,990 isk.

2 Day South Iceland Tour; Glacier Hike, Jokulsarlon & Diamond Beach

From 77,900 isk.

3 Day Summer Tour – Golden Circle & South Coast

From 119,000 isk.

6 Day Iceland Ring Road Tour – Summer

From 324,000 isk.

8 Day Iceland Tour – Summer

From 399,897 isk.

3 Day Golden Circle & South Coast Tour

From 114,990 isk.

Around Iceland Tour | 6-Day Adventure on Iceland’s Ring Road

From 299,990 isk.

Solheimajokull Glacier Hike

From 14,900 isk.

Silfra Snorkeling Tour | Snorkeling between tectonic plate

From 18,990 isk.

Katla Ice Cave | The Ice Cave Under the Volcano | Super Jeep Tour from Vik

From 27,900 isk.

Skaftafell Glacier Hike | 3-Hour Walk

From 14,500 isk.

Ultimate Glacier Hike in Skaftafell – Ice Blue Winter Wonderland

From 19,900 isk.

Skaftafell Ice Climbing & Glacier Hike

From 29,900 isk.

Solheimajokull Ice Climbing & Glacier Hike

Snowmobile in South Iceland | Myrdalsjokull Glacier

From 29,990 isk.

Vatnajokull Glacier Hike

Your To-Do List for Iceland in May

Icelanders begin to step out of the hibernation period and venture outdoors to relish the beauty of sun, blue skies, and longer days. There are a number of festivals, events, and public holidays in the month that add to the country’s cultural overlay while you vacation here. Here are some options for activities you can partake and places you can explore throughout May in Iceland – whether relaxing or participating in adrenaline-fuelled activities, the country has a lot of offer.

Visiting Viðey

This island of Viðey can be visited through a short ferry ride away from Reykjavik . The ride itself is mesmerizing with ocean waves and squeals of the seabirds. Visit the Yoko Ono Peace Tower and wish in peace. Visit Viðey House, the first stone building in Iceland and Old School House where you can learn about the island’s history. The ferry rides take place from the capital city on weekends until May 14 th and daily ferry rides commence from May 15 th .

Hiking Trails

Skaftafell Ice Cave & Glacier Hike

Glacier Walk & Glacier Kayak

From 29,999 isk.

Þórsmörk Hike

From 36,000 isk.

Landmannalaugar Super Jeep | Day Tour

From 39,000 isk.

Fimmvorduhals Hike

From 49,000 isk.

Highlands Surprise – Super Jeep Excursion

Husafell Canyon Baths | Hot Springs in the Highlands of Iceland

From 9,900 isk.

Volcano Tour

From 12,900 isk, volcano tour & reykjanes sightseeing, from 11,490 isk.

Volcano Tour & the Blue Lagoon

From 26,590 isk.

Landmannalaugar Hiking Tour from Reykjavik

From 24,990 isk.

Fimmvorduhals Hiking Tour

May is heaven for anglers. During this month, Iceland boasts some excellent river fishing. There are several possibilities to fish in the ocean. Angling in the country is a private affair and based on the landowner’s discretion. You can find several fish species including migratory brown trout, Atlantic salmon, sea brown run trout, and Arctic char, sea trout. Before partaking in the activity, you should be aware of the strict fishing laws in the country. Ensure that you are not using equipment that has been used abroad unless it has a certification of disinfection.

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Fishing Tours in Iceland

Fishing Tour from Reykjavik

From 60,000 isk, lava caving.

Iceland is all about mystic landforms, volcanoes, and thrilling adventures. One of the most interesting activities you can do is take a tour of lava caves . Apart from the fantastic display of red, orange, and purple rock, lava caving provides a deeper insight into the geology of Iceland. The majority of the lava caves are easily accessible and can be hiked with an average level of physical fitness. Some caves have narrow segments so there are chances you might have to duck, crawl, or even climb your way through the rock formations.

• Best Lava Caves in Iceland

Lava Cave Tours in Iceland

Víðgelmir lava cave | Family friendly tour to the Largest Lava Cave in Iceland

From 7,500 isk.

Vatnshellir Lava Cave | Travel Into the Earth

From 5,400 isk.

Golden Circle & Lava Cave

From 21,990 isk.

Best of Iceland in 5 Days | South Coast, Golden Circle & Snaefellsnes

From 192,990 isk.

8 Day Iceland Tour – Winter

From 329,900 isk, raufarholshellir lava tunnel tour | meet on location, from 8,400 isk.

Raufarholshellir Lava Tunnel Tour | From Reykjavik

From 12,500 isk.

Katla Ice Cave Tour | Semi Private – Max 6 passengers

From 72,000 isk.

Golden Circle Private Tour

From 109,900 isk.

South Coast Private Tour

From 130,000 isk, explore glaciers.

Crystal Ice Cave in Iceland | Super Jeep from Jökulsárlón to the Blue Ice Cave

From 20,900 isk.

2 Day Winter Package | Blue Ice Cave, South Coast, Skaftafell & Northern Lights

3 Day Winter Package | Blue Ice Cave, South Coast, Golden Circle & Northern Lights

From 125,000 isk.

4-Day Package | Blue Ice Cave, Golden Circle, South Coast, Snaefellsnes & The Northern Lights Tour

From 199,990 isk.

5-Day Winter Package | Blue Ice Cave, Golden Circle, Snæfellsnes, South Coast & The Northern Lights Tour

From 204,900 isk, meet the puffins.

Iceland hosts the largest population of Atlantic puffins in Europe that flock to the coastline to nest in the summer months. Some tours take you to see the puffins in conjunction with whale watching. Puffins are ‘threatened’ according to the International Union for the Conservation as their population is declining across the region. Consider taking tours from downtown Reykjavik , or go on a self driving trip to Latrabjarg , Dyrholaey , Tjornes Peninsula, Ingolfshofdi, Westman Islands , North Iceland, Snaefellsness Peninsula, Borgarfjörður Eystir, Grimsey Island , and Papey Island.

• Iceland Travel Guide to Puffins 
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Puffin Tours in Iceland

Puffin Tour from Reykjavik

From 7,400 isk.

Horse Riding, Puffins & Elves in Iceland

From 23,300 isk.

Húsavík Whale Watching & Puffins

From 13,300 isk.

Whale Watching Luxury Tour | Yacht Cruise

Reykjavik Whale Watching & Puffins

From 18,260 isk.

Husavik Whale Watching & Puffins – RIB boat

From 19,990 isk.

Vestmannaeyjar Boat Tour | Elephant Rock – Whales – Puffins

From 10,900 isk.

Westman Islands 1 hour RIB boat tour | Elephant Rock – Puffins – Whales

From 16,700 isk.

Westman Islands 2 hour RIB boat tour | Elephant Rock – Puffins – Whales

From 23,900 isk.

Westman Islands Day Tour | Small Group Tour to the Volcanic Islands

From 49,990 isk.

Whale Watching in Ísafjörður

From 13,500 isk, horse riding.

Horse riding is one of the most engaging and spectacular activities to explore the Icelandic countryside. The Icelandic horses are one of the most mystical breeds. You are first introduced to the basics of being in a saddle, either through an informational video or personal briefing by the guides. The horses pass through the farmland, rivers, and delicate valleys.

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Horseback Riding Tours

1 Hour Horseback Riding Tour | Winter Edition

From 12,000 isk.

Reykjadalur Horse Riding & Hot Spring Bathing

From 29,950 isk.

Black Beach Horse Riding in South Iceland

From 30,800 isk.

2 Hour Horseback Riding Tour in South Iceland

From 16,000 isk.

Reykjavik Horseback Riding

From 15,000 isk.

Horses & Elves

From 16,500 isk.

Horse Riding & Whale Watching

From 29,700 isk.

Horseback Riding in Snaefellsnes

6 Day Iceland Ring Road Tour – Winter

Golden Circle & Horse Riding Tour

From 23,490 isk.

Black Beach Horse Riding in Vík

From 13,000 isk.

South Coast & Black Beach Horse Riding

Horse Riding in East Iceland | Ride into the Wild

From 15,500 isk, whale watching.

May is the best whale watching time in Iceland. Iceland has a great number of species local to the shores – Killer Whales, Harbor Porpoise, Short Beaked Dolphin, Minke Whales, Sperm and Humpback Whales, and Blue Whales. The whale watching boats are fitted with radar technology and communicate with each other. You can also get a chance to sight Gulls, Fulmars, Aucks, Ducks, and Gannets.

• Iceland Travel Guide to Whale Watching

Whale Watching Tours in Iceland

Whale Watching from Reykjavik

From 10,990 isk.

Whale Watching from Akureyri

From 12,990 isk.

Whale Watching & Northern Lights | Reykjavik

From 20,980 isk.

Húsavík Whale Watching – Original Tour

From 11,300 isk.

Whale Watching & Sea Angle – North Iceland

8 Day Iceland Northern Lights Tour Package

From 399,990 isk.

Whale Watching in Ólafsvík

Explore the museums in reykjavik.

The country has several museums such as Open-Air Folk Museum. You get to see the old houses and how Icelandic people used to live and work in the past. The museum usually remains open from 13:00 to 17:00 hours. You can also see sculptures at the Einar Jónsson Sculpture Garden and Museum. The garden has impressive sculptures and mature trees.

Food Culture in Reykjavik

Walk around the capital city with a local guide and learn its history, culture, and traditions. You also learn about the best places to eat in Reykjavik and relish the most delicious dishes that the city offers. You get to taste grass-fed and free-roaming Icelandic lamb, home-made Icelandic ice cream, and the best local cheese in the season, and visit the popular Icelandic hot dog stand. 

Go Snorkeling in Silfra

Silfra is a fissure with crystal-clear glacial water that runs through Thingvellir National Park in the Golden Circle. Snorkeling in Silfra is a once-in-the-lifetime experience. The clear water provides a perfect view of even the smallest species. May is the perfect time to go snorkeling in the region. A light beam of light passes through the crystal clear water from Langjökull glacier.

• Iceland Travel Guide to Snorkeling in Silfra
• Snorkeling & Diving Tours in Iceland

Snorkeling & Diving Tours in Silfra

Golden Circle & Snorkeling Silfra

From 34,900 isk.

Golden Circle Private Tour – Pick up at Airport available

From 142,000 isk.

Diving in Silfra Iceland | Tectonic Plates

From 34,990 isk.

Scuba Diving in Silfra – from Reykjavik | Diving Tectonic Plates

From 41,990 isk, snorkeling silfra | from reykjavik, from 27.998 isk, festivals that make the country appear more vibrant.

Besides being a hub for unlimited activities and places to explore, Iceland hosts many festivals in May that draw the attention of the crowd from home and abroad. Explore the highlights of Icelandic and international music and art. Here are all the events you can attend in Iceland in May:

Saga is a two-day music festival. It is a new music and art festival that is unique. The festival is all about communality and sustainability. The tickets to the fest arrive with a packet of seeds that are intended to be planted by the festival goer, helping Iceland in reforesting. The guests express companionship. You can participate by performing, volunteering, or organization. The festival is egalitarian, implying there is no hierarchy between artists and participants. It is an amazing festival with an electric atmosphere. You get an opportunity to meet with strangers and make new friends.

Ascension Day

Ascension Day is the oldest Christian holiday that is celebrated forty days after Easter to commemorate the ascension of Jesus to heaven. It is a public holiday across the nation and Icelanders take the day at home with their family and often dine on traditional cuisine. Visitors spend the day visiting Iceland’s most iconic churches. Some of them are the modernist Lutheran church, Hallgrímskirkja, and Fríkirkjan í Reykjavík, a green-roofed chapel by the city pond, Tjörnin.

RAFLOST: Icelandic Festival of Electronic Arts

Since 2007, RAFLOST has been one of the most pioneering festivals for electronic artists – computer, dance, music, games, and poetry. The festival has become a force of nature in the last 10 years, attracting artists from across the world. This festival takes place in Reykjavík in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, Science and Culture, and the Icelandic Academy of Arts.

Vaka Folk Festival

Organized in Akureyri, the Vaka Folk Festival is a four-day lively event dedicated to keeping the traditions alive. Most of the events take place at Hof Cultural and Conference Center. You can listen to an old instrument being played and soulful songs. There are art displays and various talks and mini-courses. You get an opportunity to listen to traditional Icelandic instruments and attend workshops.

This is one of the most iconic days in the country. This day the citizens, accompanied by brass bands walk around the cities and town of Iceland. They bring out a protest for equality and fairness. These protests are peaceful and do not cause any trouble.

Rite of Spring Music Festival

The music festival emphasizes jazz, folk, and world music. Sponsored by Icelandic Music Export, this festival gives a platform to world-class performers like Serbia’s gypsy band KAL and Icelandic jazz-funk artists Mezzoforte.

What to pack for your holiday in Iceland in May?

When it comes to taking a trip to Iceland, make sure you pack layers of clothes. Ensure you have at least three layers of clothing. The temperature varies vastly throughout the day, so it gets from warm to cold within hours and back to warm. Here is a list of essential items you should pack:

• Sweaters and hoodies
• Jeans, Sweatpants
• Hiking boots
• Wind and rain-proof jacket
• Important medication
• Party clothes

Also pack other important items such as:

• Toiletries – soap, shampoo, bath towels, etc.
• Sunscreen and sunglasses
• Moisturizer
• Gadgets such as camera, phone, tabs and charging equipment
• Prescribed medicines and additional medicines for the trip
• Water bottle – you can fill it with fresh water from the tabs. 

May is a shoulder season that witnesses lower fare prices and easy availability of accommodations. The weather is at its best and the natives are coming out of the hibernation mode. You get to experience the vibrant spring colors and colorful topography. Make the most of the trip by relaxing in the hot springs, partaking in thrilling activities, relish the local delicacies, and mixing up with the locals.

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Thinking of visiting Iceland in May? You're in the right place. Here we share all our tips about the weather in Iceland in May, along with other trip-enhancing tips on where to go, what to do, and what to expect in terms of crowds and costs.

Visiting Iceland in May: an overview

What is the weather like in iceland in may, best things to do in iceland in may, can you see the northern lights in may, unforgettable, fully customizable iceland itineraries, travel ideas for iceland, created by local experts.

Iceland's Highlights from East to West

Take a flight to the East where you get to enjoy the enchanting Eastfjords before you drive south. If you are looking to focus on a few regions with a mix of the most popular sights and something off the beaten path; and to avoid backtracking with a one-way domestic flight, this is the perfect trip.

Discover North Iceland and Snaefellses

Discover the best of North Iceland and Snaefellsnes! The area around the volcanic Lake Myvatn is surrounded by impressive geological sights, stunning waterfalls and mighty canyons! The Snaefellsnes peninsula is known as “miniature Iceland” for the diversity of landscape it offers.

*6 days - Wild West Fly&Drive

Take the road less travelled around the Westfjords and Snaefellsnes peninsulas. Visit places unspoiled by humans and see the wonders and creativity of nature at their very best! The wild Westfjords feature a stunning landscape of towering mountains, deep blue fjords, and thundering waterfalls.

East to West with the Westmand Islands

Drive around the Lake Lagarfljot and visit Hengifoss waterfall and the Hallormsstadur forest. Continue to the South Coast with its beautiful waterfalls, glacier lagoons and black sand beaches. Take a detour to spend a day in the stunning Westman Islands and end your trip with the Golden Circle.

All of Iceland in 14 days

In just under 2 weeks, explore the highlights Iceland has to offer. From the popular Golden Circle, follow the Ring Road and explore waterfalls and lagoons on your way around the island. This itinerary leads you all the way to the North and the Westfjords of Iceland.

Incredible Iceland in 12 days

This driving trip trip will take you to some of Iceland’s most incredible sights and natural wonders. Drive through glacial valleys and across towering mountains as you gaze over stark landscapes of shining silver steaks and marble lava fields patched with emerald green moss...

From the blossoming of spring to pre-peak season advantages, here's an overview of what to expect if you visit Iceland in May.

See the unveiling of Iceland's spring charm 

In May, Iceland unveils its captivating charm, as it shakes off winter's chill and shifts to a warm and welcoming spring. 

It's as if nature is waking from a deep sleep to paint a spectacle of lush green landscapes, carpeted by blooming lupine flowers. This purple flower, an iconic May blossom, enhances the scenic beauty across the entire country.

At the same time, partially snow-capped mountains reveal intense greenery, transforming Iceland into an outdoor enthusiast's paradise.

Undecided about when to visit?  Read up about the best time to visit Iceland .

Wooden footpath in Skaftafell National Park, Iceland © Shutterstock

Why consider visiting Iceland in May?

May is possibly one of the best times to visit Iceland, for many reasons:

• Extended daylight hours: with up to 24 hours of daylight, you'll have ample time to marvel at natural wonders and enjoy outdoor activities.
• Off-peak season: coming just before the busy summer season, May offers the advantage of less-crowded tourist attractions.
• Affordability: off-peak season also means cheaper flights and accommodation .
• Mild weather conditions: May in Iceland typically means mild temperatures and a lower likelihood of storms.
• Unique birdwatching opportunities: May marks the arrival of migratory birds, especially puffins, which transforms the landscape into an avian paradise.

In summary, Iceland in May melds relative peace, cost-effectiveness, and spring beauty, making it an ideal time to visit. 

Whether you're a birdwatcher, hiker, or all-round nature lover, Iceland's May offerings are likely to surpass your expectations.

Before traveling to the land of glaciers and geysers, read up on what to expect of the weather in Iceland in May.

What is the temperature range in May?

The temperature range in May in Iceland is typically mild, providing a welcome shift from the cold winter months. The average temperatures range from a low of 41°F (5°C) to a high of 50°F (10°C). 

However, keep in mind it can sometimes reach up to 68°F (20°C) in the afternoons, especially in the latter part of May.

Dynjandi, Iceland @ Shutterstock

May weather variability

Despite the generally mild temperatures, the weather in May in Iceland can be unpredictable. The country is well-known for experiencing different weather conditions within a single day.

It's quite common to have a sprinkle of rain, followed by sunshine, and perhaps even a brief period of mist along the coastal areas. And all in the span of a few hours.

Though rainfall is not uncommon in May, shower episodes are usually brief, and make way for sunshine. In addition, storms are rare during May.

Undecided? Discover more cool destinations to visit in May .

Black-sand dunes in Iceland © Shutterstock

While there are tons of amazing things to do in Iceland , here's a breakdown of the best things to do in May.

Enjoy glacier tours and ice cave excursions

Iceland is famous for its majestic glaciers and ice caves, and May doesn't disappoint when it comes to exploring these frozen giants. Here are a couple of thrilling glaciers and ice cave tours you should add to your itinerary:

• Snowmobile tour to Langjökull: Langjökull, Europe's second-largest glacier, is best explored via a thrilling snowmobile. You don't have to be a professional rider — experienced guides are on hand.
• Hike Sólheimajökull glacier: put on your crampons (spiked devices attached to boots for climbing ice) and embark on a guided hike over the Sólheimajökull glacier. This tour offers opportunities to discover the glacier's crevasses and fascinating ice formations.
• Ice caving: Iceland's magic doesn't stop above ground — exploring spellbinding ice caves offers another level of excitement. 

Whale watching and bird-spotting

May is an excellent time for wildlife enthusiasts as it bursts with exciting opportunities for whale watching and bird spotting.

• Whale watching: the coastal waters become a playground for a variety of whale species in May. Hop on a boat tour and see a friendly minke or a colossal Humpback whale breaching the water's surface. Occasionally, you may even spot a Blue whale or a pod of dolphins. The boats are fitted with radar technology and communicate to enhance your chances of a sighting. The harbor off Reykjavík is particularly renowned for these eco-friendly tours.
• Bird spotting: if you're an avid birdwatcher, visiting the cliffs of Látrabjarg and Hornbjarg is a must. Puffins, the iconic birds of Iceland, flock to these areas in significant numbers in May. 

Can't wait for your trip to Iceland? Increase your chances of an unforgettable trip by choosing one of the best places to stay in Reykjavik .

The weather in Iceland in May presents ideal opportunities for whale watching Shutterstock

Hiking trails and treks

May, with its longer daylight hours and pleasant weather, presents optimal conditions for hiking enthusiasts. Here are some exhilarating trails to enjoy in May:

• Mt. Esja Trail: among the most accessible hiking trails, this path overlooks the city and comprises several sections of varying difficulty. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned hiker, Mt. Esja will reward you with panoramic views.
• Laugavegur Trail: embark on the Laugavegur trail for a thrilling odyssey through captivating landscapes — glaciers, hot springs, and unspoiled beauty.
• Þverfellshorn and Kerhólakambur Trails: these are the most popular recreational trails, requiring more skill as you progress.

Find even more options for your trip in our list of the best vacation destinations in May .

In May, the Northern Lights season ends in most regions as a result of longer daylight hours and weaker geomagnetic activity.

However, rare sightings are possible in some high-latitude areas under optimal conditions.

Best months to see the Northern Lights

The spectacle of the Northern Lights is one of the world's most exhilarating natural phenomena. However, sightings require very specific conditions — darkness, clear skies, and solar activity. 

The best months to see the Northern lights in Iceland are from mid- October through to March . 

As well as knowing when to see the lights, you also need to learn about where to see them — read our guide to the best places to see the Northern Lights in Iceland .

Northern Lights in Kirkjufell, Iceland © Shutterstock

Our personalized trip service enables you to enjoy Iceland in May without the hassle of planning. All our itineraries are created by local Iceland travel experts and can be tailored to your needs and interests.

• Classic Ring Road with Snaefellsnes (8 days): the Ring Road is Iceland's most popular route for a reason — glaciers and volcanoes, stunning waterfalls, and amazing lagoons, with t he Snæfellsnes Peninsula the perfect addition to your tour.
• East to West with the Westman Islands (8 days): drive around Lake Lagarfljot, and visit Hengifoss Waterfall and Hallormsstadur forest before spending a day on the stunning Westman Islands and ending your journey at the Golden Circle .
• Iceland: A Game of Thrones Road Trip (8 days): this themed road trip will take you through many Game of Thrones' locations — travel the coastline passing glaciers and cliffs, relax in geothermal resorts, and watch whales.

Explore all our Iceland itineraries .

Read on for the answers to common questions about visiting Iceland in May.

What to wear in Iceland in May

Due to its variability, dressing for the weather in Iceland in May can be tricky. The secret lies in layers. Start with thermal base layers to regulate your body temperature. 

A pair of good hiking boots are your best companions when traversing Iceland's varied terrains. You'll also want a rain-proof jacket, especially near the waterfalls!

Don't forget your bathing suit for invigorating dips in Iceland's thermally heated pools, and pack warmer clothes that'll see you through bar-hopping evenings in Reykjavik.

Remember, the best way to predict Iceland's weather is by preparing for its unpredictability!

Mountain Stapafell, Iceland © takepicsforfun/Shutterstock

Is driving around Iceland safe in May?

Yes, driving around Iceland in May is generally safe. The weather is typically moderate, and the main roads are in good condition, making self-drive a viable option. 

However, be aware that Iceland's weather can be unpredictable, with sudden changes possible. Also, snow and ice can sometimes still be present, especially in the northern regions and the Westfjords.

Considering these conditions, it's best to exercise caution. Regularly check the weather and road conditions on the government website .

Also, consider renting a 4x4 vehicle if you plan to explore off-road areas.

If you're not comfortable driving, plenty of guided tours offer a safe, hassle-free alternative.

Tip from Rough Guides: also learn about the best ways to get to Iceland .

Is Iceland crowded in May?

Compared to the peak summer season (June, July, August), Iceland is less crowded in May. 

May is considered the tail end of the off-peak season, which means fewer tourists and more breathing space at popular attractions. 

Even though you won't have the place entirely to yourself — Iceland is, after all, a year-round tourist hotspot — May does offer a relatively tranquil experience. 

However, it's always a good idea to book accommodation and tours in advance to secure the best spots at the best prices.

Want more tips? Read our content manager's personal experience traveling in Iceland and find out the important aspects you're likely to encounter on your trip.

Thinking of visiting Iceland? You'll find inspiration in our customizable Iceland itineraries , or contact our local experts to kick-start your perfect trip.

Visit Iceland in other months

• Best time to visit Iceland
• What's the weather like in Iceland in January?
• What's the Weather Like in Iceland in October?
• Weather in Iceland in February Travel Guide
• Weather in Iceland in March Travel Guide
• Weather in Iceland in April Travel Guide
• Weather in Iceland in June: travel guide
• Weather in Iceland in July travel guide
• Weather in Iceland in August Travel Guide
• Weather in Iceland in September: travel guide
• Weather in Iceland in November: travel guide
• What's the weather like in Iceland in December

The Rough Guides to Iceland and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Travel advice for Iceland

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Iceland

• How to get to Iceland
• Sports and Outdoor activities in Iceland
• Eating and drinking in Iceland
• Getting around Iceland: Transportation Tips
• Travel Tips Iceland for planning and on the go

Find even more inspiration here

written by Olga Sitnitsa

updated 06.08.2024

Online editor at Rough Guides, specialising in travel content. Passionate about creating compelling stories and inspiring others to explore the world.

Ready to travel and discover Iceland?

Get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.

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Iceland in May: Things to See & Do

8 minute read

By Camila Contreras-Langlois

30 March 2021

Interested in visiting Iceland in May? Or trying to find a fantastic destination for your upcoming May vacation? Look no further!

In this article, we unveil it all for you: the best things to see in Iceland in May, our favorite activities to do at that time, and what you can expect of the weather (with a useful packing guide).

We even share our top reasons to make Iceland your next May getaway – just in case you needed more convincing.

• Browse our Iceland summer packages to visit in May.

Is May a good time to visit Iceland?

Yes! Actually, May is an excellent month to visit Iceland. And we’ve got all the reasons you might need to book your Icelandic getaway in late spring or early summer.

Top 10 reasons to visit Iceland in May:

• Longer days with an average of 20 hours of daylight
• The weather is warming up
• Less crowded than at height of summer (June-August)
• Ideal for whale watching as it is the start of the feeding season
• More availability as accommodation and activities can book out early in summer
• Blooming nature
• Puffins start arriving to nest along Iceland’s coast
• Beginning of camping season
• Beginning of hiking season
• Snow-topped mountains for stunning backdrops

Not convinced yet? Continue reading to find out what you could get up to and all the amazing places you could visit.

• Related: Iceland in Spring – Your Guide .

Best things to do in Iceland in May

With the arrival of the summer season, there are longer daylight hours to explore and even more outdoor activities to take on.

The best 10 things to do in Iceland at this time are:

• Going hiking along the coast
• Dipping in natural hot springs in the countryside
• Meeting Icelandic horses to go riding
• Adventuring yourself on top or inside a glacier
• Walking inside a lava tunnel or touring an ice cave
• Taking a whale-watching tour
• Spotting puffins and going bird watching
• Spending time on the red or black sand beaches of Iceland
• Touring the Ring Road
• Feeling the mist of majestic waterfalls
• Look up all the great activities you could add to your Iceland itinerary .

Events in Iceland in May

From April and May, Iceland opens up after a dark winter and there are plenty of celebrations to join in. In May, you could attend one of the biggest events of the Icelandic cultural calendar, the Reykjavík Arts Festival.

Two smaller festivals may also interest you. There is the Vaka Folk Festival in Akureyri, which welcomes the top folk performers from Iceland and Northern Europe.

Closer to Reykjavík, at Stokkseyrarsel farm near Selfoss, you could attend Saga Fest. It is a music and arts festival based on storytelling and the Icelandic Sagas.

Best places to visit in Iceland in May

And where should you go if you’re visiting Iceland in May? You have probably heard of some hot spots, but here are our suggestions:

1. Reykjavík

It’s never a bad time to visit Iceland’s capital, but in May the buzzing summer atmosphere starts to set in. You’ll find even more events, festivals, and activities to take part in.

Here are the top things you can do in Reykjavík during the summer months:

• Go on a food tour around the city to get a taste of Iceland
• Head to the harbor to board a whale-watching cruise
• On rainy days, visit the Perlan to see its interactive exhibition about the wonders of Iceland
• Explore the nature trails on the nearby Viðey Island
• Hike up Mount Esja to get a sweeping view of the surroundings and capital city
• Dip your feet in the Atlantic Ocean or soak in hot tubs on Nauthólsvík Geothermal Beach
• Take in the view of the city from the top of Hallgrímskirkja

You could also book an array of day trips from the capital, from visiting the Golden Circle to taking helicopter rides.

• Enjoy a multi-day tour from Reykjavík, Iceland .

2. Golden Circle

If you’re in Iceland for a shorter period, don’t miss visiting the highlights of this famous route. It is perfect for a city break as it is a fantastic day tour from Reykjavík.

See the wonderful waterfalls of Faxifoss and Gullfoss. Explore Þingvellir National Park, where you can observe the tectonic plates and even go snorkeling between them.

• Check out the Golden Circle on one of these guided group tours .

And finally, see the OG of geysers! Geysir isn’t as active anymore, but its neighbor Strokkur erupts columns of hot water in the air every 6-10 minutes.

3. South coast

There are so many highlights to check off your bucket list on the south coast, so we had to include it as one.

Some of the most famous waterfalls in Iceland, Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, are located here. Seljalandsfoss is especially popular because you can walk behind the fall, giving you a different perspective.

• Blog: Guide to the best waterfalls in Iceland .

You’ll also find two of the most famous black sand beaches in Iceland. Reynisfjara is near the lovely town of Vík í Mýrdal. From here you can admire the basalt columns of the cliffs and see the rock formations of Dyrhólaey and Reynisdrangar.

A word to the wise: be careful of the waves on Reynisfjara. They can come up quickly and the currents are really strong.

Further along, Diamond Beach is a stunner. You’ll be able to admire glistening chunks of ice on the stark black sand. And literally across the road from here, you can admire more icebergs along the stunning Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon.

• Look up our summer camping tours of Iceland .

4. Vatnajökull National Park

As you journey from the south coast to North Iceland, you’ll travel along the Vatnajökull National Park. It stretches this far covering nearly 15% of Iceland’s landmass.

With such a diverse landscape, you’ll find plenty to enjoy inside this vast park. The protected area includes 10 volcanoes and a large ice cap. It’s no wonder it was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019.

We recommend you visit the Skaftafell area in the south. Here you’ll find plenty of great hiking trails, with scenic valleys and mountains to explore. In Jökulsárgljúfur, in the north, don’t miss the glacial river canyon and the many majestic waterfalls.

5. Snæfellsnes peninsula

This peninsula stretches 86 kilometers (55 miles) into the Atlantic Ocean from Iceland’s western coast.

It is renowned for being “Iceland in miniature.” It means that in this region you’ll find a bit of everything that makes up the Icelandic landscape. From vast lava fields to grand waterfalls, scenic cliffs to quaint fishing villages, and more.

It is also the location of the Snæfellsjökull National Park and its subglacial volcano.

Points of attractions include:

• Admiring the impressive Gerðuberg basalt cliffs
• Walking to the stark Búðakirkja black church amidst lava fields
• Hiking up to the Eldborg crater
• Spotting the iconic Kirkjufell Mountain (you may recognize it from Game of Thrones!)
• Going bird watching at the cliffs of Arnarstapi
• Visiting the local museums in the main town, Stykkishólmur
• Taking in the sweeping sea views from Djúpalónssandur

6. Westfjords

As May is the start of the hiking season, we recommend driving up to the Westfjords for an off-the-beaten-path adventure. This region, in the north-west of Iceland, is a fantastic destination for coastal scenery.

We recommend you visit the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve. It is ideal for long walks with scenic views. Here you’ll also find one of Europe’s largest bird cliffs, Látrabjarg. And from late-April until August, you can observe the cute puffins who make it their home.

• Book a hiking tour of Iceland for a memorable adventure.

7. Westman Islands

You could visit the Westman Islands, or Vestmannaeyjar, from Reykjavík, or add it to your itinerary as you visit the south coast.

The main island, Heimaey, is ideal for a day tour to learn about this volcanic island’s history. Don’t miss the crater and lava left from the 1973 volcanic eruption that buried a part of the island.

You could even book a boat tour around the island. This way you’d get to admire the teeming birdlife, including the world’s largest puffin colony, and maybe even spot some whales.

8. Diamond Circle

So, you’ve heard of the Golden Circle, but not the Diamond Circle? This is another one of Iceland’s most popular sightseeing routes.

Located in the north of the island, it encompasses the amazing landscapes of the Lake Mývatn area, coastal scenery of the Tjörnes peninsula, and the Jökulsárgljúfur National Park.

Don’t miss:

• The most powerful waterfall in Europe, Dettifoss
• Ásbyrgi, a lush, horseshoe-shaped canyon
• Iceland’s capital of whale watching, Húsavík
• Goðafoss, the “Waterfall of the Gods”
• Lake Mývatn Nature Reserve
• Check out our summer self-drive tours of Iceland .

What about the highlands?

Did you hear about the fantastic hiking trails located in this remote area of Iceland? They are colorful, memorable, and ideal for hikers looking for their next challenge.

If that’s something you’re interested in, visit between June and August . The roads into the highlands open depending on the weather and are usually only accessible at this time of year. So May is a bit too early.

Weather in Iceland in May – What to expect

May marks the beginning of the summer season in Iceland. The country is opening up again with better weather and more travel opportunities. But in May things are only starting to ramp up and therefore quieter than during the peak summer months of June to August. 

May, together with September , is known as the shoulder season. And these are good times to visit Iceland if you want to enjoy decent weather, longer daylight hours, and fewer visitors.

So what can you expect from the weather in May? It is a transitional month between spring and summer, so temperatures are usually mild. The average temperature is around 6 °C (43 °F), with possible highs of 10-15 °C (50-59 °F).

The weather is changeable all year long, so it’s best to be ready for anything when traveling to Iceland.

Does it snow in Iceland in May?

It is unlikely to snow in Iceland at this time of year. In early May, it may snow in the north, but this is rare. What you’re likely to see are snow-topped mountains on the horizon. It depends on the year’s weather, but at least it makes for a beautiful backdrop.

Can I see the Northern Lights in Iceland in May?

In May, it is unlikely you’ll see the Northern Lights in Iceland. You need proper darkness to spot them in the sky and the number of daylight hours will make it very difficult.

To see them in summer, your best bet is to visit between late August and September. Or more specifically take a winter trip to Iceland between October and March for Northern Lights galore. Those are quieter months with longer nights, giving you more opportunities to see the famous Aurora Borealis.

What to pack to travel to Iceland in May?

As we said previously, even in May, Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable. For that reason, we advise that you pack for all possibilities.

The top tip is to bring plenty of layers. So if it’s cooler or warmer than expected, you can add or remove layers to adapt to the day (even hour!) ahead of you.

In the Nordics, we have the saying: 'There is no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing'. Keep that in mind and you won’t miss out on any of the great days of exploration and activities you have booked.

Here is a list of packing essentials for your trip to Iceland in May:

• Short-sleeved shirts and lightweight layers
• Fleece or lightweight wool jumpers
• Waterproof and windproof jacket or shell layers
• Waterproof trousers
• Gloves, scarf, and warm hat
• Cap and sunglasses
• Sturdy walking or hiking boots with good socks
• Thermal underwear and socks
• Binoculars for wildlife watchers
• Swimwear, flip flops, and towel to go for a dip

Planning your May trip to Iceland

What do you want to see most? How do you want to travel? And how long do you want to stay? Answer these questions first and you’ll have a better idea of how to prepare for your journey.

Whether you want to camp, stay in hotels, take a road trip, or guided tours, Iceland has it all. Pick what suits you best and start reserving. Accommodation, tours, and activities can book out early in summer, so make sure to start early.

Or let us help you! Iceland Tours is run by local travel experts based in Reykjavík. We have crafted tours based on popular routes and with plenty of added benefits for you to have a memorable trip.

When you’re ready to make your dream trip to Iceland a reality, get in touch or browse our tried-and-tested packages to pick the one that’s right for you.

It’s simple enough to book via our website. Select your vacation start date and length of travel and then pick your car, accommodations, and activities based on your budget. Then all you have to do is enjoy yourself. See you next May!

• Travel advice ,

About the author

Camila first travelled to Iceland in 2018 and it didn’t take long for her to fall in love with its culture, food and scenery. Throughout her life, she’s had the pleasure to live in different cultures and languages and absorb as much as possible from all her travels. You’re most likely to find her reading a good book in a local café or writing about the best spots to visit for top travel agencies.

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ICELAND IN MAY (2024): THE BEST 20 THINGS TO DO, WEATHER & THE ULTIMATE GUIDE!

LOOKING TO PLAN THE BEST TRIP TO ICELAND IN MAY?

Check out our ultimate guide below for visiting Iceland in May (2024)!

Includes : The best things to do and Iceland tours in May, weather and temperatures, best Icelandic wildlife to spot in May, what to wear, driving, annual events and much more!

ICELAND IN MAY: AN INTRODUCTION

If you’re looking for an incredible destination to visit in May, Iceland is the perfect choice. With its stunning natural beauty, unique landscapes and mild weather, May is an excellent time to explore this remarkable country.

Whether you’re interested in hiking, exploring glaciers, relaxing in hot springs, whale watching or even kayaking – Iceland has something for everyone.

Scroll down for our super easy, categorised list of the best things to do in Iceland in May, so you can make the most of your trip to this epic country:

Planning a long layover in Iceland? Check out our 2 to 3 days in Iceland itinerary !

20 TOP THINGS TO DO IN ICELAND IN MAY

Adventure activities, 1. glacier hiking tours:.

Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the breathtaking ice formations and landscapes of Iceland’s glaciers in May! May is in fact a fantastic time to explore Iceland’s glaciers with a guided tour . The weather is usually mild, and the days are getting longer, allowing for extended exploration. Guided tours also offer a safe and exciting way to experience Iceland’s glaciers, showing you the best routes and sharing invaluable knowledge about the glaciers’ geology and history.

Click to book the best Glacier Hiking tours! 🥾🧊🗻

2. LAVA TUNNEL CAVING TOURS:

May’s longer days also allow plenty more available time to explore Iceland’s lava tunnels with a guided tour. Lava tunnel caving is an exciting activity that involves exploring the natural lava tunnels beneath the surface of Iceland. These tunnels were formed by molten lava flowing underground, leaving behind unique geological formations and natural wonders such as stalactites, stalagmites, and lava falls. A guided tour of the lava tunnels offers a safe and educational way to experience the natural beauty of Iceland’s underground world with knowledgeable guides who can provide insight into the tunnels’ history and geology.

Click to book this Lava Tunnel Caving tour! 🕳🔦

3. GO WHITE WATER RAFTING:

White water rafting in Iceland is a thrilling and adventurous way to explore the country’s stunning natural landscapes. The country’s fast-flowing rivers, glacial-fed waters, and dramatic scenery make it an ideal destination for white water rafting tours. Guided white water rafting tours typically last for several hours and include safety equipment, experienced guides, and wetsuits to keep you warm in the cold water.

Click to book the best White Water Rafting tours! 🌊🚣‍♀️

4. ATV TOURS:

Guided ATV tours in Iceland are a thrilling way to explore the rugged and dramatic landscapes of this beautiful country. In May, the weather in Iceland makes it ideal for ATV excursions with the snow and ice beginning to melt, the trails become more accessible, allowing for more extended and exciting rides. Many guided ATV tours in Iceland take place in the areas around Reykjavik, including the rugged mountain range of Esja and the nearby lava fields, typically lasting for a few hours.

Click to book the best ATV tours! 🏍️

5. GO KAYAKING:

Kayaking in Iceland is a unique and exhilarating experience that offers breathtaking views of the country’s rugged coastline and icy glaciers! It’s best to go with a guided tour as the weather and ocean conditions can be unpredictable and change rapidly, making it challenging to navigate on your own. May is a good month to kayak in Iceland as the weather is slowly getting milder and the days are longer, but a guided tour will ensure your safety and provide a knowledgeable local guide to enhance your experience. May also brings the fantastic opportunity to go kayaking under the midnight sun in West Iceland!

Click to book best Kayaking tours in Iceland! 🛶

6. TAKE A ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME HELICOPTER TOUR:

Taking an Iceland helicopter tour in May is an incredible experience that offers stunning aerial views of the country’s natural beauty from a truly unique perspective. From the air, you can see Iceland’s breathtaking glaciers, cascading waterfalls, rugged coastlines, and dramatic volcanic landscapes. May is a particularly good time for a helicopter ride as the lush green hues of the Icelandic countryside are slowly peaking through as the snow begins to melt. The milder weather also reduce the chances of last minute tour cancellations.

Click to book the best Helicopter tours in Iceland! 🚁

7. SNORKEL BETWEEN TWO CONTINENTS AT SILFRA!

Snorkelling between two tectonic plates at Silfra in Iceland is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that offers a unique glimpse into the geological wonders of the world. The crystal clear waters of Silfra allow for visibility of over 100 meters, showcasing the vibrant colours and intricate rock formations of the underwater landscape. As you swim through the narrow canyon, you’ll feel a sense of awe and wonder as you witness the incredible power of nature. This is a truly unforgettable adventure that shouldn’t be missed!

Click to book this 5* snorkelling at Silfra tour! 🤿🌍🌎

WILDLIFE ENCOUNTERS & ANIMAL-BASED TOURS

8. go whale watching.

Whale watching in Iceland is a very popular experience in Iceland, particularly as it is one of the best places in the world to do so due to the abundance of food in the surrounding waters! May is the start of the best months of Iceland’s Summer to see whales in Iceland. This is because many species including humpback, minke, and fin whales are in to the area to feed during this time. Additionally, May offers longer daylight hours and milder weather compared to the Winter, allowing for more pleasant boating conditions out at sea and reducing the chances for last minute tour cancellations due to bad weather.

Click to book the best Whale Watching tours in Iceland! 🐋

9. WITNESS COLONIES OF WILD PUFFINS:

You can see wild puffins up until late August in Iceland . These adorable seabirds arrive on Iceland’s shores from early May to breed, and visitors can spot them in various coastal locations, including cliffs, islands, and sea stacks. Get your chance to see these charismatic creatures, with their colourful beaks and distinctive waddling gait, watch as they fly, swim, and interact with each other. It is highly recommended to join one of the highly recommended puffin sightseeing tours from Reykjavik with experienced guides, who will know exactly where to find them!

Click to book this Small-Group Puffin & Bird Watching tour from Reykjavík! 🐧

10. A ICELANDIC HORSEBACK RIDING EXPERIENCE

Horseback riding in Iceland is a fantastic way to explore the stunning landscapes of Iceland, whilst getting up close and personal to the adorable Icelandic horses, renowned for their gentle nature. The warmer weather that May brings is ideal for outdoor activities, with longer daylight hours and warmer temperatures than earlier in the year.

Click to book the best Iceland Horseback riding tours! 🐴🏞️

SIGHTSEEING OPPORTUNITIES

11. complete the scenic golden circle route.

The Golden Circle is a popular tourist route in Iceland that covers about 300 kilometers of breathtaking natural wonders. The route takes visitors to three primary destinations: Thingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall. Visitors can self-drive the Golden Circle route, either in their own car or by renting one . Alternatively, visitors can join a guided tour , which offers the convenience of a knowledgeable guide and transportation. There are several tour operators offering Golden Circle tours, ranging from half-day to full-day. Some tours include additional stops, such as the Kerið volcanic crater. We have included a link to this particular tour with the additional stop below:

Click to book this full-day Golden Circle guided tour! 🟡 ⛰️♨️

12. TOUR ICELAND’S JURASSIC SOUTH COAST

Joining this guided 5* small group tour to explore Iceland’s South coast is a both luxurious and comfortable way to experience the South Coast’s natural wonders.

This includes key stops such as Eyjafjallajökull Volcano, Sólheimajökull Glacier, and Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, all of which are breathtaking sights to behold! The tour is led by an experienced and knowledgeable guide who will provide insights into the history, geology, and culture of Iceland. The small group size ensures personalised attention and a more intimate experience. Additionally, the tour includes transportation in a comfortable and well-equipped vehicle.

Click to book this 5* full day South Coast tour! ⬇️🌊

13. RAISE YOUR ADRENALINE BY HIKING UP A VOLCANO!

Experiencing a guided volcano hiking tour in Iceland is the perfect adventure for adrenaline-seeking travellers. The volcano hiking tours typically take visitors to some of Iceland’s most thrillingly impressive and recently active volcanic areas. Be lead through dramatically fierce and wild landscapes by an experience guide.

Click to book the best guided Volcano Hiking tours! 🥾🌋

14. VISIT THE SNAEFELLSNES PENINSULA, WEST ICELAND

The Snaefellsnes Peninsula, located in western Iceland, is a region of spectacular natural beauty. It is home to the iconic Kirkjufell mountain, black sand beaches, and stunning coastline. Visitors to Snaefellsnes Peninsula can explore charming fishing villages, hike along rugged trails, and take in breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. You can easily experience this jaw-dropping region in just one day on a top-rated and convenient and highly-rated day tour from Reykjavik !

Click to book this Snaefellsnes Peninsula day trip from Reykjavik! 🏔️🧭⬅️

15. VISIT THE JAW-DROPPING LANDMANNALAUGAR MOUNTAINS

The Landmannalaugar Mountains, located in the South Iceland, are a collection of strikingly colourful rhyolite mountains, which range from deep reds, oranges, vibrant greens and blues. To witness this otherworldly region should be on top of every Iceland visitors bucket list. It is highly recommend to witness this beauty for yourself on a superb 14-hour jeep tour from Reykjavik , giving you ultimate access deep into this rugged landscape!

Click to book this Landmannalaugar by Super Jeep tour from Reykjavik! 🏔️🌈

WELLNESS & SPA EXPERIENCES

16. soak in the blue lagoon’s hot springs.

The Blue Lagoon in Iceland is a unique geothermal spa that offers a truly memorable relaxation experience. Famously iconic for their dazzlingly blue hue, the soothingly warm and mineral-rich waters are said to have healing properties. A visit to the Blue Lagoon is a must for anyone visiting Iceland, and it is almost a crime to miss such an iconic experience!

Click to book your ticket to Blue Lagoon! 💧🌡🧖🏻‍♀️

17. INDULGE IN THE STYLISH SKY LAGOON HOT SPRINGS

The new Sky Lagoon in Iceland offers a modern take on a traditional Icelandic hot spring. With stunning ocean views and a sleek modern design snuggled between natural rock faces, the Sky Lagoon provides a unique and luxurious relaxation experience. Visitors can soak in the geothermal waters with the additional options of delectable spa treatments and delicious food to enjoy during your visit.

Click to book your ticket to the Sky Lagoon ! 🌡🧖🏻‍♀️🗿

IN REYKJAVIK CITY CENTRE

18. enjoy a food & beer tasting tour:.

A food and beer tasting tour in Reykjavik city is a great way to explore Iceland’s unique culinary scene and experience the country’s local culture. Icelandic cuisine is known for its fresh seafood, traditional dairy products, and unique preparation methods. Have your chance to sample a variety of local dishes and drinks while learning about the country’s history and traditions.

Click to book a Food & Beer tasting tour in Reykjavik! 🍻 🍜

19. ‘WALK WITH A VIKING’ REYKJAVIK WALKING TOURS:

A ‘Walking with a Viking’ city tour in Reykjavik is a unique and immersive way to explore the city’s culture and history. Led by a knowledgeable Viking guide, visitors can discover the hidden secrets and top attractions of Reykjavik in a small-group setting, allowing for a more personalised experience. From the iconic Hallgrímskirkja church to lesser-known gems, the tour offers a comprehensive look at the city’s rich history and culture. It’s a great opportunity to learn about Iceland’s Viking heritage and connect with the city on a deeper level.

Click to book the Walk with a local viking Rekyjavik city tour! 🔱🏰🌈

20. MEET THE FAIRIES, ELVES AND GHOSTS FROM ICELANDIC MYSTICAL TRADITIONS IN OLD REYKJAVIK:

Taking a Reykjavik Folklore Walking Tour to meet the Elves, Trolls and Ghosts of Iceland is a unique and immersive way to experience the country’s mystical traditions. Iceland has a long history of storytelling, and the tales of its supernatural beings are deeply woven into the fabric of the country’s identity. The tour allows visitors to learn about these legends firsthand from knowledgeable guides, who share fascinating stories about the country’s past and present.

Click to book this “Reykjavik Folklore Walking” tour! 🔱🧚‍♀️🧝🏻‍♂️🔮

MAY WEATHER IN ICELAND

Average temperatures for may.

The month of May marks the beginning of Iceland’s Summer season, and the weather can vary considerably throughout the month.

In the most recent May (2023), the average temperature in Iceland was around 5-10°C. However as per previous years, temperatures can range from as low as 0°C to as high as 15°C, depending on the region and the weather conditions.

In general, the southern coast of Iceland tends to be milder and more temperate, while the northern parts of the country can be cooler and windier.

WEATHER CONDITIONS IN MAY

In May, visitors to Iceland can expect slightly calmer weather conditions with some variations in temperature and occasional rain or snowfall.

With longer days and plenty of daylight, travellers can enjoy the stunning landscapes and Iceland’s natural wonders for longer.

While May is generally a drier month compared to the winter months, Iceland’s weather can still be unpredictable and variable, and visitors should come prepared with both warm and waterproof clothing.

IS THERE THE MIDNIGHT SUN IN MAY?

Yes, Iceland experiences the midnight sun in May! This is due to Iceland’s location near the Arctic Circle, where the angle of the sun’s rays allows for extended periods of daylight during the summer months.

On the first day of May, the country experiences around 18 hours of daylight, which increases to nearly 24 hours by the end of the month, particularly in the Northern regions.

In Reykjavik, the capital city, the sun sets for only a few hours before rising again, providing a truly unique experience for many people visiting Iceland in May!

NORTHERN LIGHTS IN ICELAND IN MAY

It is very unlikely to see the Northern Lights in Iceland in May. The best time to see the Northern Lights, also known as Aurora Borealis, in Iceland is between September and April when the nights are longer and darker.

During these months, there are increased chances of clear skies and solar activity, which are essential for viewing the lights

However, if the conditions are right, and there is increased solar activity, there is still a slight possibility to see the Northern Lights near the start of May.

The best places to see the Northern Lights in Iceland are away from the city lights, in areas with clear skies, and minimal light pollution. Some popular places to see the Northern Lights in Iceland include Thingvellir National Park, Reykjanes Peninsula, and Akureyri.

ICELAND IN MAY PACKING LIST:

• A warm hat, gloves, scarf, ear muffs and a small thermal coat.
• A lightweight waterproof poncho .
• Comfortable breathable layers, including some short and long-sleeved tops.
• Long comfortable trousers, ideally thermal leggings.
• Multiple pairs of woollen thermal socks for exploring tours outside of the city.
• Sturdy, robust hiking shoes or boots for exploring Iceland’s outer city landscapes.
• Comfortable lightweight walking shoes (inner city exploring).
• Refillable water bottle to take with you on your tours.
• Your swimsuit! You will need this for the Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon experience .
• A microfibre beach towel (fast drying & lightweight).
• A spare waterproof bag to store your wet towel / swimsuit after either the Blue Lagoon / Sky Lagoon experience.

DRIVING IN ICELAND IN AUGUST

Yes, it is generally safe for tourists to rent a car to self-drive themselves around Iceland during the month of May.

May is the beginning of the high season, and though the weather gets progressively milder as the month goes on, Iceland’s weather can still be notoriously unpredictable, with occasional snow and ice still present on the roads.

In any case, it’s essential to check weather and road conditions regularly, drive cautiously, and rent a 4×4 vehicle if you plan on exploring off-road areas.

It’s also recommended to bring warm clothing and emergency supplies in case of unexpected weather or road closures.

If you’re not comfortable driving in Iceland, there are many guided tours available that offer safe and convenient transportation options!

TOP ICELANDIC EVENTS IN AUGUST

1st may: labour day.

The 1st of May is an annual public holiday in Iceland, usually accompanied by gleeful celebrations and parades. This is a great day to be visiting Iceland, especially in the capital city of Reykjavik, to be amongst the hustle and bustle of of the festivities!

18TH MAY: ASCENSION DAY

The 18th May is Ascension day, a day where the majority of local Icelandic people take time out to spend time with family. Workplaces and schools are closed, however all hospitality (such as restaurants and bars) remain open. Ascension Day has religious roots, commemorating Jesus’s ascension to heaven as per the Bible.

CONCLUSION: ICELAND IN MAY

The answer you’ve all been waiting for, do we believe Iceland is worth visiting in May? *Drum roll* 🥁…

In a word – absolutely! May is an excellent time to visit Iceland for a multitude of reasons.

Not only can you save money on flights and accommodation , as it falls just before the peak tourist season. This also means that you can avoid mass amounts of tourists and explore the country’s stunning landscapes without it feeling too overcrowded.

Additionally, the weather in May begins to improve in Iceland, with longer daylight hours and milder temperatures making outdoor activities more enjoyable.

Whether you want to hike, whale watch, or simply take in the breathtaking scenery, Iceland in May has something to offer for everyone. So, if you’re looking for a more affordable, peaceful, and pleasant time to visit Iceland, May is definitely your month to visit – Enjoy!

This blog post was written by… Jordie Flain! Founder of TheFlainsTravel.com, Travel Itinerary Creator & Wildlife Enthusiast

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Jordie Flain is the owner and author of The Flains Travel, a travel blog with emphasis on ethical wildlife experiences, "seen to be believed" natural beauty and "real magic" phenomena, such as the northern lights. Jordie crafts every itinerary and post to perfection for travellers to follow and get the very most out of their time in a destination.

Iceland is open for travel: Volcanic eruption in Iceland 2024

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Iceland in May

All you need to know about traveling to iceland in may.

May in Iceland

• ICELAND IN MAY
• When to visit
• Things TO DO
• WHAT TO WEAR
• DRIVING IN MAY
• EVENTS & HOLIDAYS

Related Tours

Related blogs.

Visiting Iceland in May is very special. Nature is coming alive very rapidly now, spring and even early summer flowers are flourishing, and the trees and grass are becoming greener by the day.

When the sun shines, the long, bright days of May are so magnificent – everything just feels so vibrant and fully alive. No wonder many Icelanders say this is their favorite time of year!

Here, you'll find out all you need to know about May in Iceland, including how cold Iceland is in May and the best thing to do there.

Geysir sightseeing place at Golden Circle in Iceland

IS MAY A GOOD TIME TO VISIT ICELAND?

May is surely the right time to visit Iceland if you’re looking for a fun and cheaper trip. During this month, the weather is getting warmer, and days are longer. This is also only the beginning of the peak season, so the sights shouldn’t be too overcrowded. May is also a good time to come to Iceland as its still cheaper, so you can find good deals on accommodation and transportation.

Facts about Iceland in May

• Daybreak comes early, and the bright evenings are increasingly long.
• Sightseeing is possible from early until late evening.
• Less crowded than in June, July, or August.
• Flowers, trees, and landscapes start to bloom. A great time for picnics and outdoor dining.
• The puffins are back - a welcome sight on many of our wildlife tours .
• The lambing season continues into May.
• Many rental companies offer cheaper car hire before June.
• Accommodation is often at a better price than during the peak season.

WEATHER IN ICELAND IN MAY

What makes Iceland so special during this time of the year is that even though the temperature is getting warmer, it tends to change rapidly. This means that you can undergo different temperatures and different weather conditions in a span of just a few days or experience contrasting weather in different parts of the country at the same time.

Temperature in Iceland in May

The average temperature in Iceland in May is 7 °C, the average at the warmest part of the day is a surprisingly comfortable 10 °C, with the average low being 4 °C. So, usually 40 °F to 50 °F. Rainfall varies from year to year, but the average number of days with rainfall is 11 days, just one more day than in June. Powerful storms are much rarer in May than they are in the wintertime.

Kerid Volcano Crater in Iceland

Daylight in Iceland in May

On the 1st of May, the sun rises at 5:00 am and sets at 21:51 pm, nearly 17 hours of daylight from the outset! At the end of the month , sunrise comes at 3.25 am with sunset at 23:37, giving more than 20 daylight hours, so you can just enjoy the sights whenever the whim takes you. In North Iceland, it gets even better with between 17:15 and 21:07 hours of daylight in Akureyri . One tip – bring your sunglasses ! Also, check out the Iceland weather forecast for the whole year.

WHAT TO DO IN ICELAND IN MAY

Looking for fun and unforgettable activities to try while traveling in Iceland in May? With longer daylight hours, spend them in nature, watching marine life, or enjoying Iceland’s diverse landscapes.

Watch puffins

May marks an exciting start – a time to watch puffins. There’s a reason why Iceland is called the capital of puffins, as this is the place where these birds love to reside during the summer season. The best way to see these fun creatures with your own eyes is by booking a puffin tour . If you’re interested to know more about the birds, check out everything you need to know about puffins .

Glacier hiking

Despite warmer weather, why not try glacier hiking if you’re looking for some chillier activities? The safest and most fun way to try this activity is by booking a glacier hiking tour , during which you’ll safely learn about glaciers and how they are formed, thanks to your guide.

Ring Road tours

Dreaming about a road trip around Iceland? Then your wishes are about to come true as Iceland in May means better road conditions and a perfect opportunity to go on one of the Ring Road tours . If you’re curious about the Ring Road, it’s a main route that goes around the whole country. On your way, you can see many beautiful attractions, such as waterfalls, glaciers, hot springs, cliffs, and so much more.

Whale watching

Visiting Iceland in May also means a great time to watch marine life. During your whale-watching tour , you’ll have the opportunity to spot porpoises, Humpback whales, Minke whales, and even dolphins. It’s a fascinating experience you’ll get to enjoy from the boat.

Snorkeling and diving

For those who feel that they need more water activities, snorkeling or diving is a perfect choice as it's available all year round. Many can’t wait for the opportunity to snorkel or dive here because of how special the place where you’ll be doing it is – Silfra Fissure . It’s known to be the only place in the world where you can find yourself between two tectonic plates.

Can you see the Northern Lights in Iceland in May?

Northern Lights tours cease operating around mid-April, but the Aurora can still be seen in May. You need darkness to see the Northern Lights. In Iceland, from mid-April onwards, nightfall arrives very late, making it a bit difficult to operate tours. This is why the best time of the year to see the Northern Lights is from September to April. 

If you want to see the Northern Lights in May, you will need to stay up very late to do it. It helps to check the Aurora forecast . If the forecast is favorable, you need to go to a place with low artificial light pollution and very little or no cloud cover. Hopefully, your late-night Northern Lights vigil will be rewarded with a radiant display of dancing colors!

What to do in Reykjavik in May?

If you’re looking for something fun to do during your stay in the capital, here are a few ideas:

• Visit Víðey , the island which is just a short ferry ride away from Reykjavík. The ocean waves and squeals of the seabirds are the only sounds you will hear as you explore. Visit Viðey House, the first stone building in Iceland, and the Old School House, where you can catch up on the island's history. 
• Enjoy a whale-watching tour from the harbor downtown in Reykjavík. Look out for whales, dolphins and all kinds of ocean wildlife – you get great coastal views of Faxaflói Bay. 
• Elliðaárdalur – hike, jog, or cycle through this beautiful valley in Reykjavík, where you will discover a place that is seldom visited by tourists. An enchanting salmon river tumbles through this family recreation area, which is a great favorite of the local people. 
• Árbæjarsafn – The Open Air Folk Museum is really close to Elliðaárdalur at Kistuhylur, 110 Reykjavík. See the old houses and how the Icelandic people used to live and work in the not-so-distant past. 
• Reykjavík Botanic Garden (Grasagarðurinn) – learn about the surprising array of flowers that flourish in the garden. In May, the gardens come alive with colorful blooms. It has a Flóran Café where you can enjoy a meal or a drink.
• Laugardalslaug swimming pool – relax in the hot tub and enjoy the lush green scenery – this pool is just a short walk from the Botanical Gardens and Flóran Café / Bistro – on a fine day, why not enjoy all three?
• Einar Jónsson Sculpture Garden and Museum – the garden, with its impressive sculptures, is incredibly lovely and serene. It’s a real peace haven in the heart of the city. The museum building was the home and studio of the sculptor. The gallery and garden are situated at Eiríksgata, just across the road from Hallgrímskirkja, Reykjavík´s iconic white church.
• Enjoy Icelandic food at Café Loki (plenty to suit overseas taste buds), situated at Lokastígur 28 opposite Hallgrímskirkja. On fine days there is some outdoor seating, and the upstairs restaurant offers fine views. Good value dish of the day and a selection of “Icelandic plates” to choose from. Drinks, soups, cakes, and snacks are also served.
• Seltjarnarnes peninsula is where you can enjoy the mountain views, coastline, nature, and beaches around this suburb of Reykjavík. The Bakkatjörn pond and the island of Grótta are both bird habitats and conservation areas. Arctic tern, eider ducks, and geese are all regular visitors. More than 100 bird species are short or long-term residents.

WHAT TO WEAR IN ICELAND IN MAY

Layers are the only way to stay comfortable when temperatures change a lot. One minute you can enjoy the sun and warmth, and the second you can be looking for a place to run away from wind and rain. To prepare for such changes, it’s best to bring a light jacket to make sure you have plenty of items to layer under it. You probably won't wear them all the time, but cozy hats, gloves, warm woolen socks, and scarves are as important as your bathing suit, towel, suncream, and sunglasses in May.

Black Sand Beach in the South of Iceland

Start off with a wool or thermal base layer, then add your hiking trousers and fleece, a thermal top or wool sweater, and an outer rainproof shell. Dress for how it feels but bear in mind the weather can change a lot during the day and into the evening. So, in warm weather, skip some of the layers but carry extra clothing with you. A couple of light tops and regular underwear are useful if you get lucky with the weather, hiking trousers which zip-off to become shorts give great flexibility too. Lopapeysa, the Icelandic wool sweaters, can be very useful in May. Warm days can chill down into cool evenings. For more information on what to pack for your trip to Iceland in May, check what to wear in Iceland .

DRIVING IN ICELAND IN MAY

Thanks to better Icelandic weather, driving conditions in May are great. The roads are clean and visible, but it's always best to check web pages on driving conditions and weather before hitting the road. However, keep in mind that some of the roads, usually leading to more remote places, are still closed due to changing weather conditions. 

May is a perfect time to go on a Golden Circle road trip, but if you’re not feeling like driving, then enjoy the same beautiful scenery from a passenger seat during one of the Golden Circle tours .

EVENTS AND HOLIDAYS IN ICELAND IN MAY

Interested in how Icelanders celebrate their holidays during May? Then you’re in luck, as there are many beautiful celebrations, events, and holidays during this time of the year.

A cultural fiesta celebrating the Icelandic Sagas and Icelandic culture at Stokkseyrarsel, a farm at Stokkseyri, a gorgeous fishing village, around an hour by car from Reykjavík. Music, arts, poetry readings, Icelandic shamanism and shamanic drumming, and great celebrations. There is a strong emphasis on community, equality, sustainability, and nurturing the earth.

Mothers’ Day

The well known Mother’s day in Iceland is celebrated on the second Sunday of May. This day is usually celebrated by kids giving flowers to their mothers and families spending time together going on a celebratory lunch.

The Vaka Folk Festival

Listen to the old instruments being played and soulful songs being sung. Watch the joyful and vibrant traditional Icelandic dances being performed. There are art displays and various talks and mini-courses. Vaka is a very lively event, the packed schedule operates from lunchtime to late evening. The Icelandic people have lovingly preserved their traditional instruments and charming songs and dances.

Labor Day / May Day

It’s held on the same day as May Day (1st of May) but in Iceland, it is the Labor Day aspect that received great emphasis. The workers’ rights that have been achieved are celebrated, and desired future rights are focused on. This is a big day for protest marches, the protests support all sorts of issues, not just workers’ rights. The banner-waving protest groups are often noisily supported by brass bands, making for quite an entertaining spectacle as they pour through Laugavegur, the main shopping street in Reykjavík.

Ascension Day

The date can vary since this is held 40 days after Easter Sunday. Christian Churches hold services celebrating the ascension of Jesus. Not many Icelanders go to church, but services are held to honor Ascension Day. People like to make the most of their extra leisure time with family, friends, and outdoor activities.

Whit Monday

This is also sometimes known as Pentecost Monday. This marks the end of the 90-day Easter period, which commenced with Ash Wednesday (Öskudagur in Iceland) and the period of Lent. Again, most Icelanders enjoy the long weekend by spending time with family and friends, sometimes going to a summer house in the country. Church services are held, so if you want to celebrate the religious aspect, you will be able to do so in Iceland.

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Visiting Iceland in May: Pros, Cons, and Tips for 2023

May is the time when Iceland begins to transition into its peak tourist season, making it a popular time to visit. With milder temperatures and longer days, visitors can experience Iceland’s stunning natural beauty without the extreme weather conditions of the winter months by visiting Iceland in May.

However, May can also bring unpredictable weather patterns and crowded tourist sites. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of visiting Iceland in May and provide tips to help you make the most of your trip.

About Iceland in the Spring

Iceland in may: pros, iceland in may: cons, events in iceland in may, visiting in april instead, visiting in june instead, our final thoughts.

As winter transitions into spring, Iceland begins to come back to life after a long, dark season. In March, the days begin to get longer and temperatures start to rise, although snow and ice can still be found in many parts of the country.

By April, Iceland is in full bloom with wildflowers and greenery blanketing the landscape. May is when the weather truly starts to warm up, with average temperatures ranging from 5-12°C (41-54°F), making it a great time to explore the country’s outdoor attractions.

Spring is an excellent time to visit Iceland for those who want to avoid the crowds of the peak summer season. It’s also a great time for outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and soaking in hot springs. The weather can be unpredictable, so it’s important to come prepared with layers and waterproof gear.

Keep in mind that some roads and hiking trails may still be closed due to snow or icy conditions, especially earlier in the season, so it’s a good idea to check ahead before planning your itinerary.

For a deeper dive into the best time to visit Iceland, please see our comprehensive guide to the best time to visit Iceland .

Pros and Cons of Iceland in May

As with any month of the year, there are going to be advantages and potential disadvantages to exploring Iceland in May. Keep in mind, every month is wildly different for Icelandic adventures. May is no exception. Below are some of the pros and potential cons of Iceland in May.

May is a wonderful time to visit Iceland because the weather is mild and pleasant, making it a great time to explore the country’s stunning landscapes. The days are longer than in winter, and the midnight sun begins to make an appearance, allowing for more time to enjoy the natural beauty of Iceland.

Additionally, the wildflowers and greenery start to bloom, adding pops of color to the landscape. This is especially true in the countryside, where visitors can see fields of lupines and other colorful flowers. May is also a great time to spot puffins and other seabirds, as they start to return to Iceland’s coastal cliffs for the breeding season.

Visiting Iceland in May also means that there are fewer tourists compared to the peak summer season, making it a great time to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful vacation. Many popular tourist sites, such as the Blue Lagoon, are also less crowded during this time, allowing visitors to relax and take in the beauty of the area without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

Additionally, May is a great time to take part in outdoor activities such as hiking and horseback riding, as the weather is mild and comfortable. Overall, May offers a great balance of mild weather, beautiful scenery, and fewer crowds, making it an ideal time to visit Iceland.

Visiting Iceland in May can be a great time to experience the country before the peak tourist season hits, but there are also some downsides to keep in mind. One major con of visiting Iceland in May is that the weather can be unpredictable, with a mix of sunshine, rain, and sometimes even snow.

This can make it difficult to plan outdoor activities or sightseeing trips, and visitors may need to be flexible and willing to adjust their plans depending on the weather. Additionally, while May is before the peak season, it is still a popular time to visit, which means that accommodations and tours may be more expensive or booked up in advance.

Another potential downside of visiting Iceland in May is that some popular tourist destinations may not be fully accessible or open for the season yet. For example, some hiking trails may still be closed due to snow or wet conditions, and some natural attractions may not be fully accessible due to road closures or maintenance.

This could limit the options for outdoor activities or sightseeing, and visitors may need to do more research to ensure that they can still visit the places they want to see. Finally, while May is a relatively mild time of year in Iceland, visitors should still be prepared for chilly temperatures and possibly even high winds or storms.

There are plenty of events taking place throughout Iceland in the month of May. Here are just a few of the events in Iceland in May:

• First Day of Summer – This public holiday marks the beginning of summer in Iceland and is celebrated on the first Thursday after April 18th.
• Reykjavik Arts Festival – This festival celebrates a variety of art forms, including music, theatre, dance, and visual arts. It usually takes place in late May or early June and attracts both local and international artists.
• Icelandic Horse Expo – This event showcases the unique Icelandic horse breed and features competitions, exhibitions, and demonstrations. It usually takes place in early May in Reykjavik.
• Saga Fest – This literary festival celebrates Icelandic sagas and storytelling traditions. It features readings, discussions, and workshops by local and international writers and scholars. It usually takes place in late May in Reykjavik.
• Arctic Open Golf Tournament – This golf tournament takes place at the Akureyri Golf Club in northern Iceland and is known for its unique setting and midnight sun. It usually takes place in late May or early June.

Tips for Visiting Iceland in May

Visiting Iceland in May is a great idea for those who want to experience the country’s natural beauty at its finest. The weather is mild, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 12°C (41°F to 54°F), and the days are getting longer, with up to 20 hours of daylight towards the end of the month. This is a great time to go hiking or explore Iceland’s scenic landscapes.

One thing to keep in mind when visiting Iceland in May is that it is a popular time for tourists, so it’s important to book accommodations and tours well in advance. While it’s not the peak tourist season, many people come to Iceland during this time to take advantage of the mild weather and longer days. Another consideration is that May can still be a bit chilly, especially at night, so be sure to pack warm layers.

Overall, May is a great time to visit Iceland for those who want to explore the outdoors without being too cold or dealing with the crowds of peak season. With proper planning and a sense of adventure, visitors can make the most of their trip and enjoy all that Iceland has to offer.

As always, if you’re looking to get up-to-date information on the unpredictable weather in Iceland, there is one primary source. That source is Vedur.is .

While May is a great time to visit Iceland, April has its own unique charm. In April, you can still catch some of the winter activities and attractions like ice caves, snowmobiling, and northern lights, but with slightly milder weather.

The crowds are also smaller in April, which means you’ll have more space to explore and enjoy the scenery. Plus, the longer days mean you’ll have more time for activities and sightseeing.

For a deeper dive, please see our full article on Iceland in April .

June is the start of the busy summer tourist season in Iceland, and for good reason. The weather is milder, the days are long, and the landscape is alive with greenery and colorful flowers. In June, you can experience the midnight sun, where the sun doesn’t set at all, making it a perfect time for exploring the outdoors and going on long hikes.

The whale watching season also starts in June, and you can spot some of Iceland’s most magnificent marine creatures.

For a deeper dive, please see our full article on Iceland in June .

No matter what time of the year you choose to visit Iceland, there’s always something special and unique to experience. May is a great time to visit if you want to avoid the peak summer crowds but still enjoy the warmer weather and longer days.

However, keep in mind that the weather can be unpredictable, and you should always be prepared with warm clothing and rain gear. With the right planning and preparation, a trip to Iceland in May can be an unforgettable experience.

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• Iceland Tours
• Iceland Travel Guide
• When to Visit Iceland

Iceland in May: Spring Weather and Enchanting Scenery

• ~ mins read

May is a lovely time to tour Iceland . Winter is long over, but it is not quite summer yet, which means pleasant spring weather conditions. Since most of the winter snow has melted by May, many of the country’s inaccessible mountain paths are open, allowing you to explore the outdoors and visit all corners of this country. From whale-watching and hiking to delightful trips on roads and trails, there are many wonderful things to do in Iceland during this month.

• Jonathan N.
• From England
• Phoebe Rose

Iceland Weather in May

Iceland’s weather in May can be best described as mild. The average daytime temperature across the country is 8°C (46°F), while the average nighttime temperature is 4°C (39°F).

As spring takes hold, days become longer with more daylight hours. You can enjoy around 18 hours of daylight at the beginning of May and up to 20 hours near the end of the month. The extended daylight hours are perfect for getting out and about. However, occasional rain showers are common, so packing layers and waterproof gear is advisable. As the weather in Iceland in May becomes more pleasant, it's an excellent time to explore the country’s diverse beauty and vibrant, blooming landscapes.

For a more in-depth seasonal overview, check out our travel guide on the best time to visit Iceland .

Weather in Iceland in May - Rainfall and Temperatures

Why visit iceland in may.

A trip to Iceland in May unveils a harmonious blend of nature, wildlife, and cultural richness, making it perfect to bask in the country's diverse offerings without the peak-season rush.

Lower crowds and rates: May is a sweet spot between winter and summer when you can expect fewer tourist crowds and better rates on accommodation and activities. You can enjoy the popular attractions without the summer rush. This is also the time to take advantage of cheap airfare before it skyrockets in June.

Blooming landscapes: May transforms Iceland into a canvas of colors, with colorful wildflowers carpeting meadows, and landscapes. This is your chance to witness the country's spectacular natural beauty in full glory. Head to Akureyri Botanical Garden or Thingvellir National Park to enjoy the springtime blooms.

Puffin and whale season: Calm waters and increased wildlife activity make May one of the best months for whale-watching in Iceland. The month also heralds the return of puffins to coastal cliffs in places like Dyrhólaey that grant unparalleled opportunities to observe these charming seabirds up close.

Cultural celebrations: Experience the Reykjavik Arts Festival, where the city comes alive with creativity. From art exhibitions to music performances, this vibrant festival is perfect for learning more about Icelandic culture. The Vaka Folk Festival , which starts towards the end of May and ends in the first week of June, is held in Akureyri, the capital of North Iceland, and features charming traditional dances and music.

Where to go and what to do

Take a trip to Iceland in May for incredible landscapes and unique experiences. Start your journey in the capital city of Reykjavik, stroll through the vibrant streets, check out funky street art, and grab a cup of Icelandic coffee at a cozy café. Then hop on the tourist trail and explore the Golden Circle. Visit Thingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, Gullfoss Waterfall, and other natural wonders along the route, without the peak season rush.

Don’t forget to visit Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. May brings a unique spectacle as icebergs from the Vatnajökull Glacier drift lazily in the lagoon. There are boat tours that can get you close to these frozen giants.

Head to the Westman Islands, the largest puffin colony in Iceland, to catch the arrival of these magnificent arctic creatures. For the ultimate off-the-grid adventure, consider Hornstrandir in the Westfjords. May is when this remote and rugged area starts to wake up from its winter slumber. Hike through untouched landscapes, encounter Arctic foxes, and revel in the tranquility of a place where nature reigns supreme. Go horseback riding near Skógafoss waterfall, where the rolling hills are covered in springtime lupine flower blooms.

Need help planning your May trip to Iceland?

Iceland in May brings mild weather, unveiling vibrant landscapes and various activities. From visiting puffin colonies on coastal cliffs to taking a whale-watching trip to exploring off-the-beaten trails, May offers a perfect blend of wildlife encounters and natural wonders amid pleasant spring weather.

Fill out our customized Iceland trip form and let our local travel experts help you create a perfect itinerary.

For more ideas and inspiration, look at our Iceland guide and let us take care of the details.

Our related travel guide articles: Iceland in April Iceland in June

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Iceland in May: Best time to visit to beat the summer rush

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It’s no secret that Iceland is a popular destination. In recent years, the number of visitors has increased exponentially. With so many people flocking to this Nordic nation, you might be wondering when the best time to visit is. And we’re here to share our insights and experiences on visiting Iceland in May! 

May is considered to be one of the best months to visit Iceland because the weather is so pleasant. 

During this time of year, there are longer daylight hours and wonderful summer activities without an expensive price tag. We will share all the travel tips to help you plan your May Iceland itinerary ! 

Visiting Iceland in May: Travel Tips + Things to do in Iceland in May

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We have explored Iceland in different seasons, and still feel that a crossover month or the shoulder season is the best time to visit. 

May is off-season, and huge crowds of people are unexpected in this month. 

It is considered a spring season – sort of a transition month. 

But when you are in Iceland in May, you will know it is more of a summer month – long daylight hours, no snow, warmer temperatures, and no winter-related activities and tours. 

But because the summers have not kicked in yet – you can take advantage of fewer crowds, better accommodation, car rental deals, and more. 

Summer months are from June, and the period from July to August is the busiest in Iceland. This is when hotels and car rentals are expensive. 

Here is a little snapshot of what the weather looks like in Iceland in all months of the year and its pros and cons.

Snapshot: Iceland Seasons

What season is Iceland in May – Experience warmer days in Iceland 

Iceland experiences all 4 seasons, and May is a spring month. 

During this month, you can expect cities, and natural sites to be clear of snow and the weather to be warm for sightseeing and exploring outdoors. 

All the natural sites and excursions are open such as hikes, ATV rides, classic tours, food tours, and more! 

Although the days are longer, Iceland will still be windy, and slightly chilly when you move away from the capital city. 

Iceland May Weather and Temperatures

• Average Temperature (Low) 4 degrees Celsius (39.2 F) 
• Average Temperature (High) 10 degrees Celsius (50 F)
• Rain in Iceland – There is very little rain in Iceland in May, making it one of the dry months. The occasional rain and snow are very light, and only show up in the mountains 

Reasons to visit Iceland in May

May and generally spring months are one of the best months to visit Iceland for many reasons. Let me list them for you!

• May is an offseason in Iceland with better deals on flights, hotels, and travel packages
• Planning a trip with a long weekend or 5 days in Iceland (tips)
• All the summer activities and excursions can be done in May without the hassle
• Perfect for a road trip in Iceland

Festivals in Iceland in May

May is off-season in iceland with better deals on flights, hotels, and travel packages .

We all know that Iceland isn’t the cheapest place to visit. But did you know that prices are actually lower in the shoulder season? 

That’s right. May is an off-season – which is good news for you – if you are planning a trip. Because hotels and car rentals are decently priced, and not super expensive. 

During my trip, I was able to book a spacious hotel at around $100 USD per night in the heart of downtown Reykjavik – which was great!

The same apart-hotel was around $175 to $200 USD in the prime summer months. 

I stayed at the Guesthouse Sunna and it was super easy to walk around and get to places including day tours to venture outside the capital city. 

Being an off-season, you will find ample options for accommodation and restaurants at a decent price. 

And not only hotels, but you can also surely score a great flight deal or a stopover package to Keflavik. 

IcelandAir comes out with flight deals every three months or so for its North American flyers (US & Canada), so keep an eye out for that. 

The same goes for flights from/to Europe. 

Plus getting in and out of the airport will be a breeze, and so will finding parking space in popular attractions sites. 

Many tour operators also run special offers on excursions before the peak season, so it is perfect to take advantage of before the madness of the summer months kicks in!

Planning a trip with a long weekend or more (tips)

May isn’t the first choice when people are planning their trip to Iceland. Many either prefer winter for cold-related activities or July/summer months when kids are off school. 

But…..we recommend taking a second look at the month of May. Prices in May vs summer will be a huge difference – so you will be saving money when visiting this month. 

Secondly, Iceland as a country is not huge. If you are planning to drive on the Ring Road, you can do so in 3-5 days. 

The same is true if you are using day tours to explore. You can easily visit Iceland on a three-day weekend from the US or Canada.

Our very first trip to Iceland was for 3 days over a Thanksgiving Day long weekend. If you can squeeze in another day or two – even better. Here are sample itineraries for spending 5 days in Iceland.

So the month of May is great to explore Iceland in warm weather without the rush and prices of the summer months!

Iceland Tours in May

All of the summer tours, excursions, and cruises are open in May. Of course, you can’t miss out on the classic day tours like the Golden Circle and the south coast if this is your first time in Iceland. 

As the temperatures are warm, you can venture outdoors and soak in everything that Iceland has to offer – walk behind waterfalls, and black sand beaches, experience midnight summer days, and more. 

Multi-day tours to North Iceland are also open in May. You can check off stunning attractions such as Lake Myvatn, the waterfalls Dettifoss and Godafoss, or go on whale watching.

Whale or puffin watching season is in full swing in the month of May. You can join them from Akureyri – and choose from a full-day or half-day tour (via cruise boat). 

Don’t miss the Snæfellsnes peninsula in West Iceland – May is perfect to drive there, go on a short hike, or more! 

Take a look at all the exciting tours that Iceland has to offer 

• Classic Golden Circle Tour – One of the most popular tours is the Golden Circle tour from Reykjavik. On this route, you can visit the Thingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and the stunning Gullfoss waterfalls. Click to view this tour
• South Coast Tour: In this excursion, you can check off waterfalls like Skogafoss, and Seljalandsfoss with a stop at the village of Vik and the black sand beach of Reynisfjara. Here is the South Coast of Iceland tour
•  Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Full-Day Tour from Reykjavik – Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon is an easy day trip idea from the capital city. You can check off Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, Diamond Beach, and more. Plus when the weather conditions are favorable you can also reserve a spot on a cruise boat. Book this tour here
• Ice Cave tour options – In May you can join ice cave tours in two places in Iceland. These are man-made ice caves that are accessible all year round. You can book a tour from Reykjavik – Langjökull Glacier Ice Cave Walking Tour and Katla Ice Cave tour
• Whale watching tours : Whale and puffin-watching tours are open in Iceland in May. Book them as a full-day or half-day excursion. Book this tour, when leaving from Reykjavik and this one from Akureyri

All the geothermal spas in Iceland are open, from the Blue Lagoon to Sky Lagoon and the Myvatn Nature Baths. We recommend booking a slot in the morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler!

Full list of Iceland tours by budget and season here

Other winter tours like ice caves, snowmobile, super jeep tours, and glacier lagoon hike tours are also offered.

Experience the best of summer conditions

Summer months = longer daylight hours, warmer temperatures, no snow, and maybe camping, this is what you can expect in Iceland in May, but without a lot of crowds.

But there is more – you can also experience the unique midnight summer in Iceland as early as May. 

Midnight summer is when the sun remains visible even at night, providing endless hours of daylight. 

For nature lovers, this is a perfect time to explore the country’s incredible landscapes. 

In May, the weather is also milder than in other months, making it more comfortable to hike and camp. And with the longer days, there’s plenty of time to pack in all sorts of activities.

Iceland has a cool list of events and festivals that you can enjoy in May. Here is what you can expect

• International Day of the Icelandic Horse : Held on May 1 every year, this event celebrates the Icelandic Horse. You can participate by joining informative sessions (like open-house days) conducted in stables. And once done you can also meet cute horses!
• Reykjavik Arts Festival : This festival kicks off in the middle of May, and showcases a variety of national and international fine arts from dance, to theatre, and design. Reykjavik is decorated in festive lights and there are events (paid) that you can check out.
• I never went south : Hosted in Isafjordur, I never went south is a popular rock music festival that takes place during the Easter weekend (if Easter falls in April then the festival will be hosted in Iceland in April )
• Saga Festival : Saga is a music festival that is held annually in Stokkseyri. This fest features 60+ musicians from the villages of Eyrarbakki and Stokkseyri showcasing their talent!
• Gardabaer Jazz Festival : Another music festival – this one is for jazz lovers. Entry is free and it kicks off in Gardabaer in the evening! 

Things to do in Iceland in May: What to expect in May in Iceland

Leaving aside snow, and super cold temperatures (and northern lights) Iceland in May will delight you with all the amazing activities that this country is known for! 

Here is what you must not miss, 

Visit the attractions on the Golden Circle route 

The Golden Circle is one of the most popular tourist routes in Iceland, and for good reason. The route takes in some of the country’s most iconic sites, including the Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and the stunning Gullfoss waterfalls. 

Þingvellir is renowned for its beautiful scenery and rich history; it was here that the world’s first parliament was established in 930 AD. 

Geysir is home to a number of active geysers, including the famous Strokkur, which erupts every few minutes. 

Gullfoss is one of Iceland’s most popular waterfalls, with a two-tiered cascade that tumbles 32 metres into a crevice in the earth. 

Whether you’re looking to admire Iceland’s natural beauty or learn about its fascinating history, the Golden Circle is sure to impress.

Go chasing waterfalls near Reykjavik 

Super close to Reykjavik is the bucket list waterfalls on Iceland’s south coast. 

Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss are two of the most popular falls, and both are easily accessible from Reykjavik. You can also book a full-day tour here.

Seljalandsfoss can be seen from the main road, and Skogafoss is just a short walk from the parking lot. 

Be sure to wear waterproof clothing so that you can walk behind the waterfalls, or enjoy a hike!

The small village of Vik in south Iceland is home to Reynisfjara black sand beach and you can see basalt columns here, or go shopping for traditional souvenirs. 

Enjoy Iceland Ring Road trip highlights (good road conditions and daylight hours)

There’s something special about Iceland that keeps drawing people back. Maybe it’s the raw, untamed beauty of the landscape. 

Or the way that, despite its small size, the country seems to offer an endless variety of things to see and do. 

Whatever the reason, Iceland is an increasingly popular destination for summer road trips. 

In May, you can rent a car or campervan for cheaper and experience the best sites on the Ring Road. 

The Ring Road is a circular route that encircles Iceland. The route takes you past some of Iceland’s most iconic sights, including glaciers, waterfalls, black sand beaches, and geothermal springs. 

You’ll also have a chance to see some of the country’s wildlife, including puffins, and whales. 

Plus, you’ll get to experience Icelandic culture firsthand, whether it’s enjoying a traditional meal or soaking in a geothermal hot spring.

You can drive non-stop for 24+ hours to complete the route, but take it slow – stop and stay overnight in small towns, enjoy hikes or just take a break!

In May, roads are all accessible so you must extend your Iceland road trip itinerary by venturing inland and beyond! 

Go on whale watching tours | Whale watching in Iceland

May is perfect to go whale watching. The whale watching season in Iceland is from April to September. 

The country’s long coastline and rich marine life make it a hot spot for whale sightings, and there are plenty of tour operators offering boat trips. 

Whale-watching tours are conducted in 2-4 hour excursions and you can book them from Reykjavik and Akureyri. Because it is like a half-day tour, you can either join them in the morning or afternoon. 

Note: If you were unable to sight any whales on the day of the excursion, then you can rejoin the tour on the next available day for free. 

Meet puffins in Iceland

Every summer, thousands of tourists flock to Iceland in hopes of seeing one of the country’s most iconic animals: the puffin. These charming birds can be found in many areas around the country, but the best place to see them is on the island of Látrabjarg. 

The cliffs of Látrabjarg are home to a large colony of puffins, and visitors can get an up-close look at these fascinating creatures. 

Puffins are super cute, with brightly colored beaks and feathers. They are excellent swimmers and spend most of their time at sea, only coming ashore to mate and raise their young. 

They are curious birds, and they are not afraid to approach humans. This makes them a favorite among birdwatchers, who come from all over the world to see these unique animals in their natural habitat.

Seal watching in Iceland

From whales, and puffins to seals, you can see it all in Iceland. 

Seals can be seen in Iceland all year round (in specific places/beaches), but April and May are particularly good months for seal watching, as that is when the seal pups are born. 

People come from all over the world to watch seals in Iceland at Ytri-Tunga (Snaefellsnes peninsula) and the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. 

These sites are protected by law, so it is important to be respectful when viewing them. 

If you keep your distance and don’t disturb their habitat, you are sure to have a memorable experience watching these amazing animals.

Soak in the healing waters

The geothermal waters of Iceland have been used for centuries to relax and rejuvenate the body. 

From the Blue Lagoon , and Sky Lagoon to Husafell Canyon Baths and other popular geothermal spas are open in May, and some are late into the evenings (thanks to the midnight sun).

As Icelandic hot pools and spas are a must-do activity for many, we recommend booking your entry slots ahead of time to suit your trip schedule. 

Join man-made ice cave tours in May

Although May is too late for enjoying ice cave tours on a natural site, there are two spots where you can go ice-caving all year long. 

And trust us touring an ice cave is one of the most unique and unforgettable experiences that Iceland has to offer. Thankfully you don’t have to visit in the dead of winter months to join these tours. 

Vatnajökull National Park, for example, is home to some of the most popular and accessible ice caves in Iceland and they offer excursions (half-day to full-day tours) led by an expert guide. 

Katla Ice Cave tour is another excursion to book in May. Find more details here

Go diving and snorkeling in Iceland

It’s well known that Iceland is a land of fire and ice, with steaming lava fields and glaciers covering much of the country. But what many people don’t know is that Iceland is also home to some of the best diving and snorkeling in the world. 

The crystal-clear waters of the North Atlantic are teeming with marine life, and the dramatic volcanic coastline provides a stunning backdrop for underwater adventures. 

One of the best places for snorkeling is near Reykjavik. Located in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Thingvellir National Park, Silfra is the only place in the world where you can snorkel between tectonic plates. 

The water is crystal clear, thanks to the glaciers that feed into it, and the underwater visibility is unmatched anywhere else in the world. 

When you book a tour on the South Coast, you can also add a Silfra snorkeling experience. This is something that can be done all year round, and its waters are also cold….year round….

So in May with warmer temperatures during the day, it is worth checking it off your Iceland bucket list!

Here is the Silfra fissure snorkeling excursion to book

Enjoy fishing in May

May is an excellent month to fish in Iceland. The country has excellent river fishing, as well as opportunities to fish in the ocean. 

There are different seasons for fishing in this Nordic nation. The main brown trout and arctic char season starts in May and ends in mid-September. 

All fishing in Iceland is private and fishing times are decided by landowners. To get the best results on your fishing trip, we recommend booking a guided fishing tour in advance. 

Things to know before your visit to Iceland in May

Now that you are all excited about visiting Iceland in May, let’s get you ready with some practical information and travel tips,

Weather in Iceland in May

May is a spring month in Iceland. But as the warmer temperatures are here it also marks the beginning of Iceland’s summer season. 

As compared to winter or April, you will be blessed with longer daylight hours. However, it’s not so warm that you’ll be uncomfortably hot. 

You can expect the temperature to be as low as 4 degrees Celsius (39.2 F) and a high temperature of around 10 degrees Celsius (50 F).

With each passing day, the daylight hours will be longer and longer. Sunrises at 05:00 am in May, and the sunsets at 11:00 pm or later – giving you the golden glow of the midnight sun. 

Towards the end of May, you may only have 4 hours of darkness/nighttime.

There is also little to no rain in Iceland in May. 

We still recommend a waterproof jacket and comfortable shoes with you at all times of the month, especially as you will be venturing into the natural sites where windy conditions are possible. 

Driving in Iceland in May – Can you drive around Iceland in May

Most of Iceland’s major roads will be open during the month of May. However, some of the country’s smaller and more remote roads may still be closed due to snow or ice. Be sure to check the status of your intended route before setting out. 

May is technically a shoulder season, so there may be fewer services available than during peak tourist season. This includes everything from gas stations to restaurants to hotels. 

Campervan & Car Rentals in Iceland 

Although not a busy season, we do recommend reserving your car rental prior to your trip to Iceland. By doing so you can score a discount online. 

Campervans or motorhomes can be rented around this time. However, keep in mind that many campsites still operate on a winter schedule in May. 

It is possible that not a lot of sites may be open though around this time. Typically, June to August are the prime months for camping!

Take Tours in Iceland in May

If you don’t want to drive in Iceland, no problem. 

Small group tours are a great way to explore Iceland. In the off-season months, all tours are operating as usual. 

We recommend booking tours early as sometimes they need at least a minimum number of participants to confirm the excursion. 

I traveled to Iceland in May solo, and some tours require at least 2 people to confirm the booking. If that’s the case I recommend reaching out to the operator so that they can help out. 

What to pack for Iceland in May

Last quick tip – remember to pack the right gear for your trip. Don’t leave your warm clothing as the temperatures are warmer……………so here is the packing list.

Packing list: What to pack for a May Iceland trip

• 1 windproof- waterproof jacket – Here is my favorite – buy it here
• 1-2 light sweater/s – This will be useful for layering and for use indoors
• 1 waterproof pant/s – They are handy when hiking near waterfalls. Shop waterproof pants here 
• Accessories – Warm scarf, a cute beanie or two
• Warm socks – Try these thermal socks available for both women and men
• Sturdy waterproof shoes or boots such as this one

Note : Make sure your daypacks and backpacks are waterproof, along with a rain cover for your camera gear. 

Is May a Good Time to Visit Iceland?

May is a great month to visit Iceland. So the answer is yes— but with a few caveats. 

The weather is usually milder than it is in other months, making it a great time to visit if you want to avoid the coldest temperatures. 

Additionally, many of the country’s attractions are open during this time of year, so you’ll have plenty to see and do during your trip. 

Although the weather in May is milder than in some other months, it can still be unpredictable. Be sure to pack warm clothes that you can layer, as well as rain gear, no matter what time of year you visit Iceland. 

Additionally, remember that because Iceland is located in the Northern Hemisphere, the days are longer this time of year—which means that if you’re hoping to catch a glimpse of the midnight sun. 

So that’s a wrap! We hope you found this post useful in planning your trip to Iceland!

Other posts from our Iceland Travel Guide

• Iceland Itinerary – 3 days in Iceland Itinerary | 8 day Iceland itinerary
• Iceland Tip Planning – Travel Tips for Iceland – an extensive guide
• Iceland Tours – Everything you need to know about Iceland Guided Tours
• Iceland Winter Tours – Read about the top Iceland Winter Tours or Guide to visiting in October
• Reyjkavik Budget Guide – Get the list of things that you can do in Reykjavik for free

Pin – Why visit Iceland in May – What to do in Iceland in May

Mayuri is the founder & editor of ToSomePlaceNew. An Indian-Canadian globetrotter, she has traveled to over 100 cities and 40+ countries.

Mayuri has a graduate degree in History and is an MBA. She loves traveling the world particularly Europe, capturing historical nuances, and discussing that over a cup of coffee with her husband, Salil. 

She has lived in Portugal, Canada and India.

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Guide to May in Iceland

Homepage Blog Summer Trips

Posted Feb 03, 2023 in Summer Trips

Posted Feb 03, 2023

May in Iceland is not only a welcoming mid-spring month, but it also marks the arrival of some exciting and special “guests” to the island. So, if you are still sitting on the fence and trying to decide when to plan your trip to Iceland, read on to see if May may not be the month for you.

In this article, we give you the lowdown on the Iceland weather in May. What you need to pack, all the pros and cons you can expect of spending May on the island, and what makes for the perfect Iceland May itinerary.

The Pros and Cons of Spending May in Iceland

As with most things in life, visiting Iceland in May also has its pros and cons. We’ve created this neat summary to give you a general overview:

• Temperatures are increasing more and more every day as we creep closer to the Icelandic summer. May in Iceland is then the perfect time to take on that road trip and other outdoor activities.
• If you’re visiting Iceland in early May, the last of the winter snow and ice would’ve thawed . Except for certain places in the Westfjords and the Highlands, which is an entirely different story. But this means that you no longer have to be a nervous wreck regarding road conditions whenever you have to drive anywhere.
• Summer might be just around the corner, but it hasn’t arrived just yet, so you won’t have to worry about those peak season crowds.
• No peak season crowds also mean no peak season prices, and you’ll be able to stretch your budget for much longer.
• If you’re a nature-lover, you’ve picked the perfect time to visit the island. From May, we have a few esteemed guests gracing us with their presence; a variety of migratory whales as well as the famous Iceland Puffins .
• You’ll have more than enough daylight hours available each day to plan a pretty jam-packed itinerary.

• Temperatures have and will continue to rise. Still, those who generally struggle with a chill in the air won’t understand how we can call May in Iceland springtime .
• Because the peak season has still not quite arrived, you’ll find that certain attractions and activities might have limited operating hours . Certain roads and regions (such as the Westfjords and the Highlands) are still closed. That makes it hard for those who want to road trip all around the island.
• The increased daylight hours have many benefits. Yet, you’ve managed to get yourself into a sort of natural phenomenon purgatory or limbo when going to Iceland in May. You’re hanging between just missing a 22+ daylight hour Midnight Sun , and the fewer hours of darkness can’t guarantee you a Northern Lights sighting.

Weather in Iceland in May

In May, Iceland transitions from winter, offering a higher likelihood of clear skies and sunshine. Temperatures typically vary between 2°C (36°F) and 11°C (53°F), with noticeable differences as the month progresses. While still cool, May provides a more pleasant climate for visiting Iceland.

And even though you might encounter some wind and rain on your trip, you won’t need to worry about potential blizzards . Nor about those winter month Icelandic winds that can (and does!) rip off car doors. The weather in Iceland in May and June doesn’t differ that much, especially if you’re visiting Iceland in late May.

That means you’ll essentially get all the benefits of summer weather whilst still officially in spring. Some believe that the weather in Reykjavík, May in Iceland, is somehow better than on the rest of the island. This is merely an illusion created by the bigger cities on the island, where the buildings create a certain amount of protection against the external weather elements.

Daylight hours in Iceland in May have also increased to between 18 and 20 hours each da y. So, you can look forward to early mornings and late evenings, with sunrises at about 5 am and sunsets at 10 pm.

Packing List When Traveling to Iceland in May

Some may find it confusing to pack for Iceland in May since it’s still technically springtime, yet so close to summertime. That’s why we created this handy packing list for Iceland in May that you can use as a guide:

• Warm, waterproof jacket
• Fleece/woolen sweater (please just bring one or two so you can get a few authentic Icelandic woolen sweaters here on the island)
• Waterproof pants
• Waterproof hiking boots (irrespective of whether you’re planning on taking a hike or not)
• Thermal vests
• Thermal leggings
• Warm, woolen socks
• T-shirts & long-sleeved shirts
• Casual pants (for the days you’ll be spending in the city)
• Warm hat (beanies have always worked well for us)
• Warm gloves
• Bathing suit (you’ll be taking plenty of dips in the hot springs)
• Quick-drying towel
• Flip flops (for at the hot springs and public changing rooms)
• Toiletries & medications (just keep flight restrictions in mind, so you don’t need to leave half your vanity case behind at the airport)
• Water bottle (Iceland has extremely high-quality water, so you just need to refill along your travels)
• Backpack (suitable for both day outings and hikes)
• Electronic devices: cables, chargers, an adaptor, a power bank, etc.

Camping in Iceland in May

May is the perfect time to go camping on the island. Not only do you have great weather, but you also have longer daylight hours to do all sorts of outdoor activities such as hiking around the campsite. But camping in Iceland is not just for recreation and fun.

Since accommodation is the biggest expense on an Iceland holiday, many opt to go the camping route to save on their vacay budget . And if you don’t consider yourself to be the next Indiana Jones and enjoy your luxuries, then you can always rent a campervan in Iceland . That way you can go camping in comfort. If you would like to save even more money, buy an Iceland Camping Card .

This card will give a family of 2 adults and up to 4 children access to various campsites across the island for 28 nights. This could mean massive savings if you consider that the average price of camping is $10-$20 per person per night. If you intend to camp during May in Iceland, the following sites come highly recommended:

• Skógar Campsite
• Reykjavik Campsite
• Egilstadir Campsite
• Vogar Campsite
• Skaftafell Campsite 

Driving in Iceland in May

As we’ve already touched on, challenging winter road conditions are in our rearview mirrors. During May in Iceland, you can finally start proper road-tripping again . Just keep in mind that certain regions and roads such as the F-roads in the Highlands will still be closed. So, you’ll need to plan your road trip route and itinerary accordingly.

Also, have a chat with your rental agency regarding your plan, since there are certain roads where it’s recommended that you use a 4x4 campervan in Iceland . If you’re planning on making a road trip out of your visit to the island, the following are some of the favorite routes:

• The Golden Circle
• The Arctic Coast Way
• The Ring Road
• The South Coast Way
• The Westfjords Way

Other Things to Do in Iceland in May

You won’t just be camping and driving your entire trip. The following are some of the exciting things to do in Iceland in May that you can consider adding to your trip itinerary:

• Go on a hike. You can choose from a variety of day or multi-day hiking trails that varies in difficulty level.
• Visit Reykjavík in May and explore the capital city by doing the Reykjavik Food Walk .
• See one of the Iceland waterfalls (there are 10 000 of them!).
• Ride a snowmobile or a Super Jeep across an Iceland glacier .
• See if you can still explore an Iceland ice cave . Exploring the ice caves is an activity mostly preserved for the colder months. Still, if you’re around Katla Ice Cave, for example, you’ll be able to stop by all year around.
• Have a relaxing soak in one of Iceland’s hot springs .
• Dive or snorkel the Silfra Fissure.
• Discover the beautiful Thingvellir National Park .
• Attend events, festivals, or celebrations such as the Reykjavik Art Festival .
• Turn yourself into a Viking at Mink Studio .
• Go horse riding on one of the authentic Icelandic horses .
• Visit one of the many museums such as the Saga Museum or the Icelandic Phallological Museum .

Helpful Tips When You’re Spending May in Iceland

Everyone could do with a helping hand sometimes and if it’s your first time to the island or your first trip in May, the following tips can come in handy:

Don’t Waste Time Discovering the Northern Lights

Look, May in Iceland is not the best time to spot the Aurora Borealis. With just 5–6 hours of proper darkness, you don’t have much time to DIY your own Northern Lights search . Even if you know more or less nothing about the phenomenon and the island.

That’s why we highly recommend that you book yourself a spot on a Northern Lights Tour. That's if you want to stand any chance of seeing this spectacular display of lights. The local guides know exactly what makes the perfect conditions for the lights to appear. And, of course, they also know exactly where on the island they are most likely to appear.

You Need Layers

Shrek famously said that “Ogres are like onions; they have layers”. Well, in Iceland, humans are like onions, they have layers, layers of clothes that is.

Take the local saying regarding “four seasons in one day” seriously. With the difference between the indoor and outdoor temperatures, it’s wise to layer up to always be prepared for whatever happens . By wearing layers, you’ll always be able to take something off or put something back on depending on the weather May in Iceland might bring.

Waterproof Clothing is a MUST

Many leave their waterproof clothing and gear at home, thinking that it’s not really necessary when they’re not planning on going hiking. But this is not the only time waterproof accessories prove to be useful on the island. When you’re walking on a muddy trail on your way to a hot spring, you’ll understand why waterproof hiking boots are an essential item .

And if you’re standing behind Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, nicely posing for a photo whilst other visitors are screeching next to you whilst being drenched by the mist and spray, you’ll get a new appreciation for your raincoat and waterproof clothing.

Stay on Top of the Weather and Road Conditions

The ever-changing weather conditions on the island can still create tricky situations on the road. They can even lead to the sudden closure of roads and attractions. So, before you head out and reach a closed door or a dead-end, watch the Iceland weather forecast . And don't forget about the latest news regarding Iceland road conditions.

Don’t Bring Cash

Unless you’re planning on tipping your guides hundreds or thousands, your cash is best left in the bank. Most of Iceland is cashless and if you have a card with a pin, you’ll be fine paying for things on the island.

Know When to Tip

Tipping in Iceland may work slightly differently from what you’re used to back home. For example, tipping your server in a restaurant is not necessary here on the island. Staff is paid well, and most bills already have service included. Whilst certain tours appreciate visitors tipping their guides, it’s also not considered a ‘must’ and you’ll need to “read the room” as they say.

May You Have an Ama(y)zing Time Traveling Iceland in May!

As you can see from our article, a trip during May in Iceland means exciting times are ahead. We hope that you enjoy your stay and feel welcomed by our locals, who always have a warm smile and a local tale or two to entertain you with. Happy travels!

Related Posts

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ICELAND TOURS IN MAY

Get ahead of the peak travel season by visiting Iceland in May. You’ll benefit from longer daylight hours for maximum sightseeing, abundant outdoor activities, mild weather and lighter Ring Road traffic. Take your pick of tours in Iceland in May, all planned by the local experts at Nordic Visitor.

VISITING ICELAND IN MAY

Looking for tours in Iceland in May? You’re in the right place!

May is a good time of year to travel to Iceland. As the summer season is only starting, you’ll experience a quieter side of the country, with fewer visitors at popular attractions. This, paired with long daylight hours and mild weather, makes it ideal for sightseeing.

In May, visit Iceland by taking a road trip , joining a small group tour , touring with a private guide , or exploring with a multi-day tour. Whichever way you choose, you’ll be amazed by all the natural wonders you can see on a holiday to Iceland in May.

When you book a trip to Iceland with Nordic Visitor, you get hand-picked accommodation, transportation reservations, daily breakfast and access to our 24/7 helpline.

Get in touch and we'll happily plan your May adventure. Reach us via our toll-free numbers, contact form or LiveChat.

— WHY US?

Why book with nordic visitor.

• Hassle-free & seamless travel experience
• Flexible & customisable tour options
• Value for your money
• Professional service from local experts
• 24/7 emergency helpline during tour

Explore at your own pace with a car

Enjoy the freedom of a road trip, but with a helping hand. Here are some self-drive tours in Iceland you might like.

Iceland Full Circle Classic - Winter

South iceland at leisure - winter, south & west iceland classic - winter, glacier lagoon & northern lights, iceland full circle at leisure - winter, south & west iceland at leisure - winter, south iceland & into the glacier - winter, golden circle & south coast - winter, south iceland classic - winter, iceland full circle classic, south & west iceland classic, iceland complete classic, south iceland at leisure, iceland ring road express, iceland full circle at leisure, iceland grand tour, iceland ultimate adventure, iceland road trip, south & west iceland at leisure, south iceland classic, south iceland & into the glacier, christmas & new year’s in iceland, northern lights & new years eve fun, romance around iceland, highlights of westfjords, north & west iceland, golden circle & south coast, highlights of westfjords & west iceland, 4x4 highland adventure in the south, highlights of north & west iceland, iceland complete express, join a guided small group.

Explore Iceland with like-minded travellers and an experienced local guide with one of these small group tours.

Natural Wonders of Iceland

The ring road & snæfellsnes.

Highlights of the Ring Road

Iceland's wonders in a week.

Scenic South Iceland

Geysers, volcanoes & glacier lagoon, enjoy a city break with day tours.

Stay in Reykjavik and see the countryside on planned excursions. Here are some of our favourite multi-day tours.

Best of South Iceland

Golden circle, south coast & blue lagoon, best of south & north iceland, golden circle, south coast & mývatn, classic south coast, golden circle classic, golden circle & blue lagoon, active iceland, snowmobiling, ice tunnel & golden circle, golden circle express, travel with your own local guide.

Experience Iceland’s famous sights and hidden gems on your terms with one of these privately guided tours.

The Natural Wonders of Iceland - Private

1666026 ISK

Highlights of the Ring Road - Private

1089640 ISK

South & West Iceland Classic - Private

1261822 ISK

Scenic South Iceland - Private

Explore neighbouring scotland.

Charming accommodations, a weaker Pound and gorgeous Highland scenery make road trips in this Nordic neighbour a great value.

Classic Scotland

Express scotland, grand tour of scotland, scottish highlands & north coast 500, highlights of scotland, scottish highlands, loch ness & isle of skye.

Outlander Experience

Complete scotland, the outlander trail, scottish highlands & isle of skye, classic scotland & outer hebrides, classic scotland & the orkney islands, express scotland - private, scottish highlands & isle of skye - private, express scotland & ireland, classic scotland & ireland, complete scotland & ireland, grand tour of scotland & ireland, scottish highlands, isle of skye & wild atlantic way, ultimate tour of scotland & ireland, scottish highlands, north coast 500 & wild atlantic way, wonders of scotland, edinburgh complete - loch ness, highlands & glasgow, classic scotland - private, complete scotland - private, classic scotland & ireland - private, express britain, england, scotland & wales, wonders of britain, england, wales & scotland.

Complete Scotland & Ireland – Private

Express scotland & ireland – private, classic scotland at leisure, express scotland & st andrews – private, express scotland & st andrews, complete scotland at leisure, scottish highlands, north coast 500 & outer hebrides, wonders of scotland & ireland, ultimate celtic adventure, local travel agency.

As a travel agency with offices in Reykjavík, Edinburgh, Stockholm and Lucerne, Nordic Visitor knows how to make the most of your time in Europe. Choose from a variety of carefully curated tours that include must-see attractions as well as lesser-known highlights.

You can also make customisations to your itinerary by adding extra nights, optional activities, or upgrades to your tour. Or ask your personal travel consultant for advice and they will tailor your itinerary. This way you get a travel experience that is perfectly suited to you. 

Your dedicated travel consultant will arrange all the local details for you. You get accommodation, activities, transport, and other services included in your package. If you need to rework your itinerary, we’ll handle it for you so you can relax and look forward to your getaway.

Different ways you can experience Iceland

We have tours for all varieties of travel styles and interests. See our options for exploring Iceland below.

Guided Small Groups

Multi-day tours, privately guided, midnight sun, luxury getaways, best seller, what do our customers say.

The reviews speak for themselves. See what Nordic Visitor travellers said about their experience with us.

Thank you for the memories!

From the time we booked with Zachary until the day we left everything was great! He kept us informed until we left for the trip. When we arrived all the materials were waiting for us along with the ride from the airport. All the maps and information were excellent! He even marked some special things to see and do. That was our first time using Nordic Visitor and they did an amazing job with everything. You helped make this trip so memorable! We will definitely tell everyone to use Nordic Visitor for all their trips. Thank you for the memories!

5-star experience

Not only did we absolutely love every stop on the Scenic South Iceland tour, but prior to the tour we stayed for 4 days in Reykjavík. I appreciated Nordic Visitor's recommendations for things to do and places to eat there and felt highly supported by Marko, our travel consultant, in every regard to booking our flight and own hotel, day trips I was interested in, and taking public transport around. A definite 5-star experience!

Excellent planning from Nordic Visitor

Iceland is a breathtakingly beautiful country with a new, gorgeous view of nature around every corner. We were able to enjoy each part of it without any worry about transportation or accommodation due to Nordic Visitor's excellent planning skills. We would enthusiastically recommend Nordic Visitor to all our family and friends.

A trip of a lifetime

We booked the Natural Wonders of Iceland tour and had a trip of a lifetime. From start to finish everything was seamless. Our travel consultant was always quick in responding to inquiries, even on our last day when we needed to change our airport transfer. Our guide Havar really did elevate our tour to the next level. I don't think we could have asked for a better guide to show us Iceland.  His pride in his country was evident and his communication skills were excellent. 

Highly recommend Nordic Visitor

The planned trip, accommodation and guide were just perfect! Iceland is a beautiful country, with a working geyser, many gorgeous waterfalls, whales, puffins and just breathtaking scenery. Nordic Visitor's itinerary gave us a wonderful taste of the country and their choice of guide could not have been better! We would highly recommend Nordic Visitor for anyone planning to visit Iceland.

We will remember this forever

The itinerary was very well organised. We seamlessly traversed through the countryside, moving from geological wonder to add-on excursions. Every hotel chosen was excellent and the included breakfasts were legendary. It was an amazing journey that we will remember forever. I would highly recommend Nordic Visitor to everyone interested in a trip to Iceland.

Fantastic from start to finish

We did a 5-day tour which included the south coast tour, the Golden Circle tour, northern lights tour, Flyover experience, Blue Lagoon and Reykjavík city walk. This was a trip I have wanted to do for a while and it didn't disappoint. Nordic Visitor gave me advice on the best month to visit and they were spot on. The weather was good, we were lucky enough to see the northern lights and the tours were not too busy. The tour guides were excellent, full of information and they all seem to love their jobs. This trip was fantastic from start to finish. Thank you Nordic Visitor.

Great experience for our teens

We really enjoyed getting off the main road and away from the crowd. Our teenagers got a really great first international trip experience.

Well-organised arrangements

All the arrangements were well-organised and coordinated. The guides were knowledgeable and were clearly interested and invested in their roles. I loved the relaxed and calm demeanour they displayed. Transfers to and from airport were on time and our drivers willingly conversed about many topics about Iceland. Accommodation was impressive, easy to access and check-in to.

Truly a trip of a lifetime

Visiting Iceland was on our bucket list and Nordic Visitor made it one of our top trips we have ever been on. We loved having a guide to answer questions and give us information of places that we were visiting. Our tour guide, Sigi, took us to places that were more out of the way and we would not have been able to experience them if we just would have used a tour book. It was so relaxing to be dropped off at sights and then picked up. This was truly a trip of a lifetime thanks to the planning, accommodation and tour guide. Would recommend to everyone!

We had a blast

Seamless service. The agent we had was very prompt and thorough. Very meticulous in planning the private guided tour for 12 people. Everything was perfect. We had a blast.

Every day was wow!

This trip was beyond my expectations. Every day was wow! Our guide was very personable and answered all our questions. Accommodation was all good and I felt like I got a real feel for the country. I would definitely recommend this company to anyone who wants to visit Iceland.

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Borgarfjörður eystri

Nature, hiking & more in East Iceland

Nature lovers' paradise

One of the country's most stunning waterfalls

Stand in the massive hoof print of Sleipnir

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT ICELAND IN MAY

Whatever you’re wondering about visiting Iceland in May, we’re here to answer your most commonly asked questions. Is May a good time to visit Iceland? Definitely! What can you visit during this time of year? Read below to find out all the details from our local travel experts.

How is Iceland in May?

May is the start of the summer travel season in Iceland. This means it is a quieter month that falls before the popular period of June to August.

Known as the shoulder season, it’s the ideal time of year for those who want to still enjoy decent weather but avoid larger crowds. The temperatures are generally mild, and there are long daylight hours as we approach the summer solstice.

What are the best things to do in Iceland in May?

There are plenty of things you can do during your trip to Iceland. May is one of the best times to visit the Land of Fire and Ice, as there is a wide variety of experiences to enjoy.

Here are 10 of the best things to do in Iceland in May:

• Marvel at waterfalls
• Hike in national parks
• Dip in hot springs and pools
• Go whale and puffin watching
• See geothermal wonders and volcanoes
• Roam the countryside on an Icelandic horse
• Walk along black sand beaches
• Venture off the beaten track
• Admire glacier lagoons
• Taste Icelandic cuisine

In May, you could also attend the Reykjavík Arts Festival. It is one of the country’s biggest cultural events and attracts artists from all over the world.

• Read about the best things to do in Iceland according to local experts
• Learn everything you need to know about Iceland travel with this guide

What are the best places to visit in Iceland in May?

May is a great month to travel to Iceland and see its top natural attractions. More so, you’ll enjoy long daylight hours and fair weather, ideal conditions for exploring.

Here are some of the best places to visit in Iceland in May:

• Explore the lively capital, Reykjavík
• Drive or join a day tour of the Golden Circle route, including the Gullfoss waterfall, Geysir hot springs area and Þingvellir National Park
• Admire the grandeur of the Eyjafjallajökull volcano and glacier
• Visit the village of Vík to see the interesting rock formations of Dyrhólaey
• Join a boat tour on the Jökulsárlón   glacier lagoon
• Discover the lunar landscapes of the Lake Mývatn , area
• See the “Capital of North Iceland”, Akureyri
• Go off the beaten path at the Westfjords
• Roam around the Snæfellsjökull National Park

For rainy days, you may want to explore some of these fun indoor attractions too:

• Learn about volcanoes at the Lava Centre
• Try a flight simulation experience with FlyOver Iceland
• Experience earthquakes and visit the planetarium at Perlan
• Venture “into the glacier” at Langjökull
• Discover the 10 best places to visit in Iceland  and off-the-beaten-path spots in Iceland
• Browse these top-selling tours of Iceland to see the best places in one incredible trip

What is the weather like in Iceland in May?

As May is a transitional month between spring and summer, you can expect mild and changing weather in Iceland at this time. On average, there are highs of 10°C (50°F) and lows of 4°C (40°F).

Iceland’s climate is unpredictable, so prepare for sun, wind and rain if you’re planning a trip for May.

What is the temperature in May?

In the capital, the average temperature is 6°C (43°F) in May. In Akureyri, in the north, it is 4°C (40°F).

Does it snow in Iceland in May?

It is unlikely to snow in Iceland in May. On rare occasions, it may snow in the north at the beginning of the month. At this time, you’ll also still be able to admire the snow-topped mountains.

• Find out more about Iceland’s climate with this weather guide and climate guide
• Not sure when to go to Iceland? This ultimate guide to the best times to visit  will give you all the details

What are the driving conditions in Iceland in May?

A road trip in Iceland in May has its advantages. As it’s not yet the peak season, there's lighter traffic for driving around the Ring Road. This is one of the great things about exploring Iceland in the shoulder season – fewer visitors!

Since the weather is changeable in Iceland, it is important to come prepared. Make yourself aware of road safety precautions before you travel.

During your trip check weather and road conditions regularly. For your peace of mind, our team is on hand 24/7 should you need to get in touch at any point.

When you book a self-drive tour with Nordic Visitor , car rentals come with collision damage waiver, unlimited in-car Wi-Fi, and a hand-marked map of your route. You also get two named drivers on the insurance policy so you can share the driving with a travel companion.

What to pack for a trip to Iceland in May?

Iceland is famous for its ever-changing weather, so we advise that you be as prepared as possible. As May follows the cold Icelandic spring, we recommend bringing warmer layers to be ready for the cooler temperatures. That way, come rain or shine, you can enjoy the natural beauty of the country.

Here is a list of packing essentials for your Iceland trip in May:

• Fleece and lightweight wool jumpers
• Fleece jumpers
• Waterproof and windproof jacket or shell layers
• Waterproof trousers
• Thermal underwear and socks

As well as these essentials, be sure to bring good sturdy walking or hiking boots depending on what activities you may want to enjoy. And, if you’re keen to experience the famous Blue Lagoon, remember to pack your swimwear.

What to wear in Iceland in May?

Icelanders have a saying: “There is no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing”.

As the weather is expected to be mild but unpredictable in May, we recommend layers. That way you can remove or add clothes depending on the day’s weather.

Make sure to bring some warm under layers as well as water and windproof outer layers. If you plan on visiting beaches, going for coastal walks and exploring national parks, you should wear some good hiking shoes or boots.

What are the daylight hours in Iceland in May?

In May, the daylight hours are still growing longer as we slowly approach the summer solstice. This means you’ll enjoy plenty of daytime brightness to explore Iceland to your heart’s content. You can expect daylight hours between 5 AM and 10 PM on average.

By June, Iceland experiences around 19-21 hours of daylight thanks to the midnight sun.

Can I see the northern lights in Iceland in May?

In May, it is unlikely you’ll see the northern lights. This is because during the summer months there are few hours of proper darkness.

Visit between October and March to go on one of the northern lights tours available in Iceland. These allow you to go to quieter and more remote areas to (hopefully) enjoy the spectacle.

• Discover northern lights packages to Iceland and other Nordic destinations
• For your best chance to see the auroras and capture them, read this northern lights guide to Iceland

How to tour Iceland in May?

There are various ways to travel on your Iceland tour in May. Depending on your personal tastes and requirements, you could either go for a guided or self-guided vacation.

Visit the capital with a city break If you’re looking for a fun but short getaway, come explore Reykjavík . There is much to discover within the capital and nearby.

Here are some of the best things to do in May in Iceland’s capital:

• Go to the top of Hallgrímskirkja Church
• Take a dip at a local swimming pool
• See Grótta Lighthouse
• Walk along the coast
• Visit the Einar Jónsson Art Museum
• Attend the Reykjavík Arts Festival

You could also join day tours to discover beyond Reykjavík, including the Reykjanes Peninsula and the famous Golden Circle.

Take the wheel for an epic road trip May is an excellent month for those who want to tour Iceland at their own pace. Pick up your rental car and journey around the island along the Ring Road (Route 1).

At this time of year, the road conditions are good for touring, and you can enjoy long daylight hours to drive and explore. Stop whenever you want to admire the black sands of the South Coast, high mountains, and the jagged landscape of lava fields.

Driving in Iceland is an adventure that you won’t regret! Especially if you book with Nordic Visitor, as we offer collision damage waiver, unlimited in-car Wi-Fi, and a 24/7 helpline for emergencies.

• Learn more about driving in Iceland and discovering the Golden Circle at your own pace
• Love the sound of a self-drive adventure? Find out more about self-drive tours and read how long it takes to drive around Iceland

Join a small guided group tour In May, you could opt to join a small group tour of the natural wonders of Iceland. Explore the scenic South Coast or tour around the country to see the best island.

A small group tour offers an enriching experience, allowing you to get the most out of your trip thanks to the expertise of a local guide. What’s more, you’ll be travelling alongside 15 people at most, so the trip is still personal for you.

Book a private tour With these packages, you’ll enjoy the undivided attention of your own expert guide who will also act as your personal driver. Sit back, relax and take in the view as your local guide gives you a deeper insight into the Icelandic history and beauty.

As well as a personal itinerary, your private guide will be able to tailor the tour even more to your preferences. You get to stop where you want to see what interests you specifically. Ask all the questions you want, get unique insight and relax in the comfortable vehicle.

Good to know: Our Iceland itineraries aren’t set in stone. Our Reykjavík-based Iceland experts know the country inside out. They’ll help you see Iceland your way, tailoring your itinerary and adding all the best excursions to suit you.

• Find out more about visiting Iceland earlier, in February , March or April
• Or visit Iceland later, in June , July or August

— OTHER DESTINATIONS

See more of northern europe.

• Want more road trip ideas? Venture to Scotland and Ireland
• Like stunning scenery and Viking history? Discover Scandinavia
• Prefer winter scenery? Make for snowy Lapland
• Keen to go off the beaten track? Explore wild Greenland  and Svalbard

Our services

Whether you choose a guided tour or a self-drive vacation, all customers receive personalised service with a designated travel consultant , tailor-made quality travel documents, and our self-drive clients receive a hand-marked map that outlines their route, overnight stays and highlights along the way. Furthermore, Nordic Visitor has long-standing professional relationships with local tour operators , which are carefully selected by our staff and are recognized for consistent, quality service.

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• Protect your money & plans with our  flexible booking terms    .
• Get peace of mind with a 24/7 helpline during your stay.
• Enjoy personal service from Iceland-based travel experts.
• We’re here for you in case of unforeseen circumstances.
• 97% of customers say they’d recommend us to friends.
• As a local agency, we work closely with trusted suppliers.
• We’re a fully licensed and insured company in Iceland.

Whether you have queries about our tours or want to add activities to existing bookings, we’re here to help. Get in touch with our friendly team for any of your travel questions.

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What To Wear For Iceland In May: Tips From An Icelander (2024)

Are you wondering what to wear for Iceland in May?

Then you’re at the right place! 

In this post I’ll quickly go over;

• What you should wear 
• Daylight in May
• The Weather in May
• If you can see the northern lights

So make sure to read until the end so you know how to prepare for Iceland and what to expect!

So let’s jump into it!

What to wear for Iceland in May

We also made a quick video about what to wear which you can check out!

May is a great time to visit Iceland.

The days are longer and you’re just ahead of the summer rush.

But what should you pack?

Packing list for Iceland In May

Planning a trip to Iceland in May requires careful consideration of what to pack in order to make the most of your time in our beautiful country. 

Here are some essential items to pack to make the most of your trip:

Warm Clothing: 

Despite the warmer temperatures, it’s important to pack warm clothing as the weather in Iceland can change quickly and the wind chill can make it feel much colder. 

Pack layers, including;

• A warm sweater, 
• Waterproof jacket 
• Thermal pants
• Joggers/jeans (both preferably)
• A hat 
• Gloves 
• A scarf (optional)
• Good socks that dry fast

Waterproof Gear : 

Rain showers are common in Iceland in May, so it’s important to pack waterproof gear such as;

• A rain jacket
• Water-resistant and windproof pants

You’ll want all your outer layers to be waterproof!

Comfortable Shoes : 

Comfortable shoes are essential for exploring the rugged terrain of Iceland. Pack sturdy and waterproof shoes that can handle hiking and outdoor activities.

Nothing ruins the day as fast as wet feet. 

Swimming Gear : 

Iceland is home to many hot springs and geothermal pools, so don’t forget to pack your swimwear and a towel if you plan on soaking in the warm waters.

Camera Gear : 

Iceland is one of the most photogenic countries in the world, so be sure to pack your camera and accessories. 

A tripod and a wide-angle lens are particularly useful for capturing the stunning landscapes and waterfalls.

Power Adapters : 

Iceland uses the EU electrical socket, so make sure to pack the appropriate power adapter for your devices.

Sunscreen : 

Now, this might sound a bit weird but hear me out. 

Even though Iceland isn’t warm the sun is quite strong. I’m not saying you should buy sunscreen specifically for your trip to Iceland.

But if you have it ready in your cabinet, bring it with you just in case! 

That’s it! 

These are the items needed for Iceland in May! 

But what are the days like?

May marks the start of longer days in Iceland, as the country begins to emerge from the long, dark winter. 

The days in May are getting longer, providing more daylight for visitors to explore the country’s stunning landscapes, natural wonders, scenic drives, hikes, or visiting hot springs!

At the beginning of the month, we have around 13 hours of daylight while at the end, we have almost 17 hours of daylight! 

So you’ll have plenty of time to explore the island! 

And if you go up north, the days will be even longer!

But that won’t mean a lot if the weather isn’t good!

Weather 

The weather in Iceland in May is often unpredictable, with a mixture of sunny skies and scattered rain showers. 

May marks the start of the warmer weather season in Iceland (hurray!), with average temperatures ranging from around 4°C to 10°C (40°F to 50°F). 

This is a great time to visit the country as the weather is usually mild and the days are getting longer, allowing for longer periods of daylight for exploring the natural wonders of the country.

In terms of precipitation, May is one of the wettest months in Iceland with an average rainfall of approximately 17mm. 

Visiting Iceland in May provides the opportunity to see the country in a new light, with warmer temperatures and longer days for exploring its natural wonders. 

You might also be wondering, can you see the northern lights?

Northern Lights

Sadly, May isn’t the best time to see the northern lights.

It’s too damn bright! 

You’ll have to stay up late if you want to see them and even then, it’s going to be unlikely. 

So if you’re planning on seeing the northern lights, you shouldn’t be coming in May.

You now know what to wear for Iceland in May and what you can expect from the weather.

If you’re winding what kind of clothes you need, check out our selection of clothes chosen by Icelanders!

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Best (And Worst) Time To Visit Iceland (Month By Month!)

February 19, 2022 //  by  Iceland Trippers

Deciding on the best time to visit Iceland for your needs is one of the most important parts of planning an Iceland trip. If you are unsure where to start, we have made it super easy for you by explaining what you can expect month by month.

This complete guide to the months and seasons of Iceland will fully prepare you for your trip. All of the most common questions are answered, such as when to see special things like the Northern Lights, lupine flowers, and puffins.

Planning your trip to Iceland last minute?

Make sure to book your hotels and tours in Iceland in advance to ensure availability! The longer you wait, the more difficult it gets. Here are my top picks for your trip :

Top Experiences And Tours In Iceland:

• Golden Circle Full Day Tour From Reykjavik (Likely to sell out!)
• Silfra Snorkeling Tour (Includes photos + only small group)
• South Of Iceland Full Day Trip (Our pick!)
• Whale Watching In Reykjavik (On a luxury yacht)
• Northern Lights Bus Tour (Great to go with a local)
• Ice Cave Tour And Glacier Hike (Likely to sell out)

Tickets You MUST book in advance:

• Keflavik > Reykjavik Bus Airport Transfer (Skip the line!)
• Sky Lagoon Entrance Ticket (Includes 7-step spa ritual)
• Blue Lagoon Entry Ticket With Drink (Likely to sell out!)

Top picks for places to stay in Iceland:

• Hotel South Coast (Great central location)
• Grandi Reykjavik (Includes free breakfast)
• Hotel Kria (Close to black sand beach)
• Hotel Skaftafell (Mid-range price)

Iceland is amazing , but it is also a country that must be taken seriously. Winter in Iceland is beautiful, but you must plan accordingly if that is when you are planning to visit. However, even summer has its drawbacks.

Not to worry, we have all the information you need to check off all of your Iceland dreams. The best months to visit Iceland might depend a little bit on the season, but it depends the most on you!

Get a FREE printable “Hidden Gems In Iceland” E-book by joining our private  Iceland Facebook Group  and sharing your photos and asking for tips and tricks.

High and Low Seasons for Visiting Iceland

Like any popular tourist destination, Iceland has an “on” season and an “off” season. These times are otherwise referred to as high and low seasons (with the in-betweens being called shoulders).

The high season is when the majority of the tourists come to visit. This is generally due to the nice weather and ease of access. This is when most people plan their Iceland itinerary !

But just because the weather is colder in the low season does not mean you should not visit! Many people enjoy the low and shoulder seasons more because there are fewer crowds and it is cheaper, making it the best time to travel to Iceland for a lot of people.

You might be surprised to learn that there are indoor and outdoor activities for all of the seasons. Iceland is beautiful inside and out no matter when you visit.

High Season: June-August

Summer, summer, summer! This is the high season in Iceland for the obvious reasons: weather and temperature. It is undeniably the best weather to visit Iceland with much more sun and higher temperatures.

However, this is also by far the most expensive time to visit Iceland. Airfare, hotel fees, food prices–everything costs a pretty penny during the summer.

Not to mention the crowds. The high season is high season because it is when most people visit Iceland.

While the cost and the crowds are pretty big negatives, the high season has phenomenal positives as well. Especially if you are wanting to go to Iceland for the great outdoors. Most roads will be open during this time as well.

At the end of the day, it is all about your priorities. If weather and being able to spend the maximum time outside every day is your top priority, you are going to want to come to Iceland during the high season.

Shoulder Season: Sept-Oct & April-May

Shoulder seasons are the traveling industry’s best-kept secret. Okay, so it is not super-secret, but it still is not something people talk about as much as they should.

We hear about the high and low seasons all the time, but not so much about the shoulder seasons. They are the very beginning and the very ending of the classic tourism season.

This means that there are still more people than in the low season, but not the huge crowds of the high season. Prices are a little higher too, but still generally reasonable.

The best part of the shoulder season is that the weather is still reasonable. It may not be as great as the high season, but still totally tolerable!

Low Season: November-March

The low season in Iceland is during the typical winter months. For a country named after ice, Iceland’s winters are not that bad!

While there are some road closures, the country is still quite explorable and traversable during the cold months. And if you are coming to see the Northern Lights, this is the time to do it!

This is also the time to come if you are on a serious budget and need to take advantage of the low season prices. Traveling does not have to empty out your bank account.

The lack of crowds makes it the best season to visit Iceland on a budget! There are some trade-offs for coming during the off-season in Iceland, but there are some definite benefits too. This is actually our favorite time to go!

As we said above, the best time to visit Iceland depends on your Iceland priorities!

Visit Iceland in Summer if You:

-Love the idea of 24-hour sunshine.  Ah, the midnight sun–you are not alone if this is on your bucket list ! If you have dreamt of Iceland’s 24-hour daylight, the summer might be the best time for you to visit.

-Are enamored with the brilliant green of summer.  Iceland starts greening back up in the spring, but summer is the best time to visit Iceland if you want to see green everywhere.

The iconic lupine flowers bloom in June and July as well, creating swatches of purple across the landscape. If you want to photograph these flowers make sure to time your trip right.

-Want the best chance to spot whales. Whale watching is a popular tour in Iceland. The magnificent beasts can be spotted offshore from April through October, but the peak time to see them is in the summer.

In summer, more species are in the area and boat tours are less likely to get canceled because of weather.

-Plan on camping. Since the weather is calmer and less unpredictable during the summer, camping in Iceland is a better option for this season. You will have the least rainfall and less wind. This is especially good if you are tent camping.

-Are not bothered by crowds. Everyone loves the gorgeous, summer Iceland scenery. And we mean everyone . Iceland is a super crowded place in summer so keep that in mind.

If you hate crowds, you can still do alright coming in the summer. You will just want to visit the less popular places in the country. They may be less popular, but Iceland is amazing no matter where you go.

-Are totally invested in the traditional sense (read: financially).  If you are not concerned about how much your trip to Iceland is going to cost, that saves you a lot of seasonal concerns.

Iceland is stunning in the summer, and we cannot blame you for wanting to visit when everything is so vibrant.

Just keep in mind that it is already expensive to travel to Iceland, let alone during the summer. During the high season, top tourist destinations and locations charge top dollar for everything.

Visit Iceland in Winter if You:

-Want to spot the Northern Lights.  You can see the Northern Lights in the fall, but there is a caveat. You will have to stay up until around 2 am. If staying up all night is not your vibe, then winter is the best time to go to Iceland to see the Northern Lights!

In winter, there are not many daylight hours. The sun is only up from around 11 am to 3 pm. However, the increased darkness means a better chance of spotting the Northern Lights. Around midnight is the best time to spot them, but earlier or later is possible too.

-Want to visit an ice cave. The incredibly-formed ice caves are some of the best natural features in Iceland and can only be visited in the winter. Tours are lead from November to March.

-Love a good winter wonderland.  There is just something magical about the way snow completely changes Iceland’s landscape. Many people absolutely love coming to Iceland during this time of year because of this.

If you love the beauty of winter, then it is the best time to visit Iceland! Keep in mind that snow has drawbacks since some roads will be closed.

-Want to stand out from the crowd.  While a lot of people enjoy Iceland in the winter, the number of people who go is nothing compared to the summer.

If you are looking to do something a little different and unique, winter just might be the best time for your visit to Iceland. It certainly is not a bad time!

Visit Iceland in Fall if You:

-Do not like crowds but still want to see the Northern Lights.  Even though this is the off-season, it is prime viewing time for the Northern Lights.

This is because the weather is so nice! You do not have to freeze to see the Northern Lights, just come during the fall.

An extra bonus is that there are really not very many tourists during this time. Fall is the best time of the year to visit Iceland if you want to miss the crowds and do not mind coming when it is a little colder.

-Love fall colors. Iceland is not a country that is typically praised for its fall foliage, mostly because there are not many trees. However, what trees there are turn golden along with the grasses, to create a beautiful landscape.

-Want to experience the Iceland Airwaves music festival.  If you have not already heard about it then you might not know what a big deal the Iceland Airwaves music festival is. But if you have heard of it then you already know that it is a must-see!

It is a super popular music festival that happens each fall in Iceland. Usually, it is held sometime in November, but do an internet search to find the exact date.

If you love music, this festival is a great addition to your Iceland plans! Fall is the best time to go to Iceland to check it out!

Visit Iceland in Spring if You:

-Love puffins!   Spring is the best time to visit Iceland if you want to see puffins . These adorable birds start arriving around April for their yearly nesting.

Puffins are some of the cutest birds out there, and you can find them all over! If you are coming to catch sight of or photograph them, just check in advance to make sure they will be in the area where you are going.

-Want to road trip without snow.  As we said above, some of the roads can close in the winter. Spring is the best time to come to Iceland for better weather and open roads. That melting snow also helps to make the waterfalls flow stronger.

Not to mention that the world is coming back to life in the most beautiful way! There is something about the colorful bursts of color against the gray of winter that makes spring like no other season.

Best Time to See Northern Lights in Iceland

If you are interested in the Northern Lights, you are interested in Iceland! While there are many different places to see the Northern Lights in the world, Iceland is hard to beat.

Especially considering that there are places where you can watch them from a hot tub! The Northern Lights In Iceland are a huge draw, and if they are the reason you are coming you are not alone!

If you are wondering what is the best month to see the Northern Lights in Iceland, there are a few choices. It is possible to see the Northern Lights any month between the end of September and the end of March.

Just like the sun is out all night during summer, the nights are very long in the winter. The closer to mid-winter you visit, the longer the night and thus the higher chance of seeing the lights.

You definitely will not be able to see them during the summer! Winter is when you should book your Iceland trip if the Northern Lights are a priority.

Cheapest Time to Visit Iceland

Unfortunately, Iceland is one of the more expensive countries to visit. We have gone over and over because we believe the experience is worth the money .

However, there are things you can do to make your trip much less expensive. One of those things is visiting during the Iceland off-season.

If it is your goal to do Iceland without dumping a ton of cash, we absolutely recommend the shoulder seasons or winter. Visiting right before or right after the high season of summer can save you a lot of money.

If saving money is a high priority, winter is absolutely the best time to visit Iceland. And pro tip: use grocery stores to cut down on costs even more!

Iceland Weather Breakdown by Month

So far we have been referring to entire seasons, but we know that is kind of broad. Especially when you are planning the trip of a lifetime!

That is why we are going to break everything about Iceland Weather down month by month . This way you can know exactly what to expect.

After all, sometimes the best time to visit Iceland is simply when it best fits into your life. Whenever you make the trip, our month-by-month breakdown will help you make the most of it.

Iceland Weather in January

Happy New Year! January is a great time to visit Iceland. During this time of year you will find highs of about 36 ° F and lows of about 27 ° F.

Is that warmer than you expected? For a country named after ice, Iceland’s winters are actually quite moderate when compared with a lot of other places in the world!

That being said, January in Iceland is the coldest and windiest month. You will want to bring warm clothing and dress appropriately! Expect lots of snow and ice.

Iceland Weather in February

Honestly, the temperatures do not change much in February. What does change is the hours of daylight!

At the beginning of January, you will only get about 4 hours of daylight a day. By the end of February, this increases to about 10 hours.

February is a great month to come because there is more daylight but the crowds and costs are still at a minimum. Check out our post on things to know before you visit Iceland in February!

Iceland Weather in March

March continues with the increase in daylight hours, with about 13 hours of sunshine a day by the end of the month.

Winter weather continues in Iceland in March , although it starts sticking more to the mountaintops and less to the streets. As with most places, the weather is also better in southern Iceland than in northern Iceland.

However, it is still cold pretty much everywhere. We are getting closer to spring, but you would not really know it yet. The temperatures are still averaging between 27 ° F and 36 ° F.

Iceland Weather in April

The weather finally begins to make a bit of a change in April. Temperatures range between 32 ° F and 41 ° F during this warmer month.

What is more, there is a lot less snow! Spring starts to show its face about this time, with the country beginning to green back up again. Migratory birds start to return, including puffins.

We are also looking at around 17 hours of daylight in April as we officially move out of the low season and into the shoulder season. Don’t forget to check out this post about visiting Iceland in April!

Iceland Weather in May

May is seriously one of the best times to visit Iceland! Especially if you love the sun! The days have 20 hours or more of sunlight. It is also the driest month, with the least rainfall.

The highs are also much closer to 50 ° F, which means you almost do not even need a jacket depending on where you are from.

Of course, you will still want to bring your jackets . While the weather is much more temperate, there will still be some cold days. However, it is totally livable and the country is also becoming so much more green!

Iceland in May is also still shoulder season, which means you will not have to try so hard to find your own space while enjoying the sunshine.

Iceland Weather in June

Welcome to high season! While it is called the high season because it is most popular among tourists, June in Iceland is also the high season for the longest days.

If getting the most out of each day is important to you, then June is the best month to visit Iceland. You can explore for many more hours in daylight.

June nights only last for about 3 hours, beginning around 11:30 PM! Yeah, blackout curtains are a big thing in Iceland summers!

While the highs average around 52 ° F, they can get much higher than that. June is the beginning of summer, and also the beginning of real warmth.

Iceland Weather in July

Now, if you are interested in heat rather than warmth , July might be a better time to visit Iceland. It is the best time of year to visit Iceland for heat, as the hottest month of the year. It is also the least windy month.

The weather in Iceland in July is generally extremely pleasant during this time of the year. While the nights are a little longer, at about 4 hours long, they do not increase by much!

Keep in mind that “hot” does not mean the same thing in Iceland as it does in other places. The average highs are around 56°F. That is part of why it is one of the most popular times to visit because it does not get any warmer than this.

Iceland Weather in August

August is the last month of the high season. While the beginning of the month is still as warm as July, temperatures start to go down by the end of the month.

August is the best time to go to Iceland if you do not mind the crowds due to the fairly standard daylight hours. The sun sets around 9 PM and rises around 5 AM. August has the least cloudy days as well.

Do keep in mind that August in Iceland goes quickly from summer to fall. By the end of the month, the slight bite to the air will have you wishing for warm pumpkin pie and spiced apple cider.

Iceland Weather in September

September still has great sunshine for Iceland, but it does go down to just below 12 hours by the end of the month. It is the warmest month with a chance to see the Northern Lights.

Temperatures are still quite nice, and we are back in shoulder season. This means that you can enjoy the nice weather and decent daylight hours without all the crowds of summer.

By the end of the month the likelihood of snow increases. If you visit Iceland in September , you will want to pack your warm clothing!

Iceland Weather in October

October in Iceland is still technically part of the shoulder season, but it is starting to feel much more like the low season of winter. Daylight is down to about 8 hours a day.

In addition, the average temperature is dropping back down to about 41 ° F. While it is not absolute winter yet, the weather should be taken into consideration at this point.

Bring warm clothes and waterproof ponchos. October is the wettest month in Iceland with an average of 14 days with precipitation.

Although it is colder, October is the best time to visit Iceland if you want to explore with as few crowds as possible. The roads are still open and you can still go pretty much everywhere you want.

Iceland Weather in November

Welcome to winter and the off-season in Iceland. November begins the coldest time of the year, although December and January are colder. This is when the snow starts to fully cover the island.

The average temperature is 38 ° F, but it can get much colder. Daylight only lasts about six hours.

We love to visit Iceland in the low season, and really do think it is one of the best times to visit Iceland. You just have to be prepared for the lower temperatures and the weather.

Iceland Weather in December

The last month of the year is one of the coldest months, second only to January. Temperature highs only reach about 39 ° F. It gets as cold as 21 ° F.

In addition, Iceland in December sees quite a lot of precipitation and snow. Daylight hours are generally pretty short.

However, this does make it and January the best time to visit Iceland for the Northern Lights! However, it is also the cloudiest month, meaning the lights can get obstructed.

Iceland Events and Activities by Month

While the weather is a big deal, sometimes it is not as important as what you can do. After all, most weather is survivable if you plan and dress accordingly.

If you are more curious about what is going on than what temperature it will be, we have you covered! We have broken down the events and activities you can do during each month of the year.

You might be surprised by some of your options, especially during the winter!

Iceland in January

Can you even go wrong with New Year’s Eve when you are celebrating in a different country? Especially Iceland!

The country takes this holiday seriously with partying on New Year’s Eve, sleeping on the first, and shopping on the second.

And then there is Christmas–that is right, Christmas extends into January in Iceland, with the last day being on the 6th. If Christmas is your favorite holiday, then the end of December and the beginning of January is definitely the best time to visit Iceland.

Another great January tradition in Iceland is Thorrablot . This pagan celebration was canceled when Iceland went Christian but has had a resurgence in the last couple of centuries.

It is a week-long celebration of an Icelandic tradition that will not disappoint. If you want to feel like a local, prepare yourself for some things you have never eaten before, like rotten shark meat, boiled sheep’s head, and congealed sheep’s blood.

Iceland in February

February is beloved for the Winter Lights Festival . As a celebration of bright and happy things, you will love the way they light the streets with brilliant fluorescence to chase the darkness of winter away.

Öskudagur is basically Icelandic Halloween. The kids dress up in great costumes, and instead of the “trick or treat” chant, sing for their candy.

The Icelandic Food and Fun Festival is a fantastic festival that celebrates Icelandic cooking. And not even the kind that uses blood and rotten shark meat! It is all about using ingredients native to Iceland and enjoying all the culinary joys the country has to offer.

Iceland in March

Did you know that Iceland had its own prohibition period? Beer with an alcohol level of over 2.2% was banned for the majority of the 1900s but legalized again in 1990.

Iceland celebrates this legalization with the unofficial holiday, Beer Day, on the first of March every year! We think you can probably guess what the main activities are. (Drinking beer.)

DesignMarch is similar to the Food and Fun Festival in that it is a celebration of Icelandic creativity. The event features purely Icelandic products and goods.

Continuing in a similar fashion, the Reykjavik Folk Festival honors centuries of traditional music and song.

Iceland in April

Iceland celebrates Easter for days just like Christmas. Honestly, we do not know why more countries do not do holidays like this! Celebrating with just one day is so minimal!

Easter lasts from Holy Thursday to Easter Monday in Iceland. It is generally spent with family, rather than with huge parties.

April’s other holiday is the first day of summer. Given the dark of winter and the light of summer, and the very small in-betweens, Iceland actually does not traditionally recognize spring and autumn as seasons. So summer starts in April!

Iceland in May

The Reykjavik Art Festival is a big deal in May! People come from all over the world to participate in and experience creativity and fun.

If art is not your thing, May still might be the best time to visit Iceland with the Rite of Spring Festival. We know, we know, we just told you there is no spring in Iceland.

But when Iceland gave up its traditional calendar, they adopted spring and autumn into their new calendar. And they like to welcome spring with heartfelt jazz and folk music!

Iceland in June

It should come as no surprise that a country that willingly eats rotten shark meat celebrates the sea! Iceland’s Festival of the Sea happens in June, and it honors the country’s long tradition of seafaring.

Iceland also celebrates its independence from Denmark every June 17th. Like the 4th of July in the United States, Iceland National Day is a country-wide affair filled with parades, concerts, and general enjoyment of Icelandic culture.

Summer Solstice takes advantage of the Midnight Sun with all-night rock concerts. You can also join the locals in watching the sun set and rise all within the course of 2-3 hours.

Another unique Iceland festival is the International Viking Festival . It is a days-long holiday event that pays tribute to Iceland’s fierce Viking history.

Iceland in July

Innipukinn Festival is another music festival that happens in July. If you are not already getting the sense that you can hit up a music festival basically anytime you visit Iceland, well, you can. Icelandic people really love their music, okay?

They mix things up a bit with LungA , a festival specific to the Icelandic town of Seyðisfjörður . This festival still has music (as any good festival does) as well as art!

Iceland in August

Verslunarmannahelgi–say that five times fast, we dare you! Honestly, if you can pronounce it once we will be impressed. Verslunarmannahelgi happens the first weekend of August and is a quick bank holiday (kind of like Labor Day in the US). People generally celebrate by going camping.

Gay Pride comes the second weekend of August, and nowhere celebrates it as Reykjavik does! With parades, parties, and concerts, this is truly a vibrant and fantastic event.

If you like running, (like, really like) then the third weekend of August is the best time to visit Iceland! This is when the Reykjavik Marathon occurs, and it is another event that attracts people from all over the world!

The marathon wraps up with Menningarnott , a fantastic cultural celebration with cultural events, fireworks, and you guessed it, great music!

Iceland in September

The capital city of Reykjavik has two festivals in September, making it the best time to visit Reykjavik if you are wanting to have some fun during the shoulder season.

First is the Reykjavik International Literary Festival . This one is not just a big deal to Iceland, it is actually the biggest literary festival in Northern Europe!

Next is the Reykjavik International Film Festival . There is just something about literature and film that make them go hand in hand. Both of these festivals draw people from all over the world, but especially the film festival!

Iceland in October

Iceland Airwaves is another music festival but centers on indie and alternative music rather than the traditional folk and rock music of so many other festivals. Of course, folk and rock music still abound!

Iceland also celebrates Halloween in October, although they have not been celebrating it as long as other countries and do it a little differently. It is more of an adult holiday, but still features costumes!

Iceland in November

November does not have a whole lot going on in the realm of festivals and events. What it does have, though, it makes sure to do well.

Frostbiter is Iceland’s Horror Film Festival. So while Iceland does not have much going on in November, it is still the best time to visit Iceland if you love horror!

Iceland in December

Sorry not sorry, but Iceland has the best Christmas lights. Seriously, you have to check them out! Because the country is so dark all the time in December, they go all out with the Christmas lights.

And the way they make such a contrast against the dark? Unbeatable.

Everything about Iceland Christmas is simply unbeatable. From the concerts to the food to the country’s own unique and fun traditions, you will absolutely love it.

New Year’s Eve is filled with fireworks, bonfires, and singing. There are even costumes!

And they do not wrap things up and go to bed at midnight. Iceland New Year partying lasts long into the early hours of the next day.

December is the best time of year to travel to Iceland if you love all the December holidays!

When is the Worst Time to Visit Iceland?

Honestly, there is really no bad time of year to visit Iceland as long as you plan accordingly. After reading this article, you should have a good idea of what each month has to offer in terms of weather, natural events, and festivals.

As long as you visit when you want to and pack according to the season , you will be in Iceland at the right time.

If you want to see the Northern Lights, summer is the worst time to visit Iceland. But, if you want clear roads for your rental car and warm weather, then winter is the worst time to visit.

So, When is the Best Time to Visit Iceland?

At the end of the day, the best time to visit Iceland is 100% up to you! Whatever your interests are and your budget will determine when you should visit this amazing country.

After all, this is your trip to Iceland. Plan it around what you want to see and do.

Do you want the midnight sun and purple, lupine flowers? Come during summer. Hate crowds and overpaying, but want decent weather? Give shoulder season a try. Does your Iceland bucket list involve the Nothern Lights or ice caves? Winter is your best bet!

Iceland is gorgeous year-round, and you really cannot go wrong no matter when you visit!

We hope our guide to the best time to visit Iceland has been helpful! Feel free to let us know when you decide to go in the comments below. What is your favorite time to travel to Iceland?

14 things to know before visiting Iceland in 2024

Feb 6, 2024 • 7 min read

Here's everything to consider when planning your trip to Iceland © Cavan Images / Getty Images

The number of visitors to small, ravishingly beautiful Iceland is soaring.

But this tiny country wasn't always so popular, and there are many important things to be aware of ahead of your visit. In these wild landscapes, small errors can lead to life-threatening situations for both the visitor and the search and rescue operations mounted to save them. 

This handy guide will help first-time visitors avoid social embarrassment, travel responsibly and have a safe and informed trip.

1. Keep up-to-date on Iceland's volcanic eruptions

Travelers heading to Iceland in 2024 will be aware there has been a series of volcanic eruptions on the Reykjanes Peninsula in south-west Iceland, not far from Keflavik International Airport, the main entry point to the capital Reykjavik . No flights have been affected so far, and the rest of Iceland is safe to visit.

The volcanic activity has only affected the town of Grindavik and the local area. All roads to Grindavik and the surrounding area are closed due to danger related to new crevasse openings. Hiking in the area is also prohibited. Icelanders have asked "lava chasers" to respectfully stay away.

The Blue Lagoon , one of Iceland's most popular attractions, also closed for a series of days due to seismic activity in the area but has since reopened.

The UK Foreign Office recommends checking alerts and advice from  Icelandic Met Office  and  Safe Travel Iceland . 

2. Use common sense to stay safe in the wild

Some tourists have been a little foolish in Iceland's incredible landscapes. Visitors have been seen strolling onto the  Sólheimajökull glacier in sneakers and light jackets; a family attempted to drive across Langjökull  glacier in a small SUV. We've also watched a teenager jump into 2°C (35°F) waters at Þingvellir National Park for a dare and witnessed tourists being sucked into the waves at black-sand Djúpalónssandur beach, one of Iceland's best .

Though Iceland's dramatic terrain can be perilous, there are usually no safety rails beside cliff edges and no ropes alongside plummeting waterfalls. Icelanders prefer not to mar beauty with obvious signs, or railings, instead they rely on people to be smart. If there are signs or barriers, heed them!

3. Plan ahead when hitting the road

Having your own wheels in Iceland is a wonderful treat: it allows you to roam the grand countryside at your leisure. Always prepare before setting out: investigate driving times and road conditions (via the Icelandic Road Administration ), weather forecasts, safety issues and, if you're walking in nature, trail conditions and requirements.

Plan an itinerary that's realistic for you. Ask locals, who will know the tricks and troubles of each place. You don't want to be caught on a hillside in fog or sleet (whether on foot or in your car) with no food and water and no idea how to get back to safety.

Safe Travel is a site run by ICE-SAR (Icelandic Search & Rescue), with travel and weather alerts and information, a smartphone app (useful in emergencies) and procedures for filing a travel plan.

4. Do not drive off-road

Never drive off-road. It's illegal and incredibly damaging to the fragile environment. Cavalier tourists leave tracks where they've flouted the rule, and those tracks entice others to do the same. Even with a 4WD, stick to marked roads.

5. Always shower with soap before taking a dip in hot springs

Part of the unique gift of Iceland's volcanic landscape is the excellent natural hot springs you'll find from the town center to the fjord side. It's practically a national pastime to hit the local hotpot, soak and gossip. It is, however, an absolute mandatory hygiene and etiquette rule to wash thoroughly with soap before donning your swimsuit to enter the hot springs and pools.

Most pools are untreated with chemicals, so cleanliness is a real factor. Whether you're at the famous Blue Lagoon  or the remote Krossneslaug, there's no quicker way to disgust an Icelander than to jump in dirty. You should also take your shoes off and put them on the rack provided as you enter the changing room.

6. Dress appropriately for hikes and pack proper outdoor gear

Bring good maps and appropriate gear, plus (you've heard it before): common sense. Consult a proper hiking or cold-weather packing list. Consider this – if you had no access to a car or building, would you be warm and dry enough in what you are wearing?

Never go hiking in jeans. Don't climb on glaciers without proper guidance. Don't try fording rivers in subcompact cars. And don't go camping without hardcore waterproof tents. With proper gear you can relax and enjoy all that beauty, no fear required.

Being prepared can open up great wilderness areas such as the Westfjords' beautiful Hornstrandir Nature Reserve , known for its Arctic foxes, spectacular birding cliffs and unspoiled hiking and camping.

If you need additional equipment once in Iceland, Reykjavík has a bevy of suppliers for gear purchase or rental, including  Fjallakofinn .

Another good information source is Ferðafélag Íslands (the Icelandic Touring Association), which runs many huts, campgrounds and hiking trails.

7. When driving, stick to the right road for your vehicle

Know which roads are accessible in the type of vehicle you're driving. Beyond Iceland's main Ring Road (Route 1), fingers of sealed road or gravel stretch out to most communities until you reach the F Roads, bumpy tracks only passable by 4WD.

F roads are truly unsafe for small cars. If you travel on them in a hired 2WD, you will also invalidate your insurance. Steer clear, hire a 4WD or take a 4WD bus or super-Jeep tour. Similarly, trying to ford a river in a 2WD vehicle or low-slung 4WD is asking for trouble.

8. Take a tour of the more remote or dangerous landscapes

Iceland's tour operators are a professional and knowledgeable bunch and can get you out into rugged country via super-Jeep, amphibious bus, snowmobile, helicopter and more. Going on a tour can offer insights and guidance through dangerous landscapes you shouldn't tackle alone.

9. Understand the impact of tourism on Iceland

Iceland has a population of around 366,000. Before travelers started arriving in droves (with numbers that topped 2 million per year in 2019), most Icelandic sights , from thundering waterfall Skógafoss and basalt beach Reynisfjara to the wild interiors at Landmannalaugar & Þórsmörk, had no need for big car parks, safety placards or hordes of park rangers.

Developing an infrastructure that can cope with its appreciative new visitors while maintaining the untouched feeling of one of the world's most unique landscapes has been a major challenge for Iceland.

10. Travel responsibly and sustainably

Remember the basics of responsible travel: don't litter, reduce your environmental footprint, leave places better than you found them, and protect wild animals and natural flora. This applies to popular sights like the Golden Circle as well as the wild interior where it's just you, the glaciers and volcanoes.

11. Appreciate the open-minded creativity of Icelanders

Icelanders are a generally hardy and open-minded group with a dry but vibrant sense of humor. They tend to speak impeccable English and are game for a chat, or to tell you about their favorite places to go. Respecting local etiquette and laws (along with not whingeing about the weather, or how hard it is to get to the natural wonders) will go a long way in endearing you to them and open opportunities for local connections.

They are also broad in their curiosities – it seems like half of Icelanders are in a band or making some sort of art or craft. They're used to thinking big and having fun. Why not get out there and join them.

12. Take the weather seriously

You may encounter bus tours and droves of visitors in popular places, but Icelandic weather is highly volatile, no matter where you are. A sunny day can quickly turn to snow flurries, and the stakes get even higher as you head into the true wilds. Never underestimate the weather – plan ahead with forecasts from the Icelandic Met Office .

13. Remove your shoes indoors

Icelanders often remove their shoes when they head inside. Pack flip-flops or slippers for indoors.

14. Yes, you can drink the tap water

It's pure and wonderful; Icelanders will look at you askance if you ask for bottled water.

This article was first published Jul 8, 2015 and updated Feb 6, 2024.

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About Iceland

Visa information, geography of iceland, general information, the northern lights, volcanic eruptions, sustainable travel, iceland academy, plan your trip, how to get there, accommodation, things to do, map your journey, getting around, carbon footprint, destinations, the regions, scenic routes, national parks, trip suggestions, towns & villages, inspiration, food and beverages, lbgt+ travel, eruption has stopped on reykjanes peninsula.

A new fissure eruption started on the Reykjanes Peninsula northeast of Sýlingarfell on May 29, 2024, marking the fifth eruption in the area since December 2023. The eruption has now ceased, with no activity observed in the crater since June 22.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Air traffic to and from Iceland operates normally, and the country remains a safe destination.
• The eruption's effects are localized to the eruption site with road closures and do not threaten people.  
• All services in Iceland are operating as usual.

Monitoring and Preparedness

For a detailed look into the recent volcanic activities and their safety implications, Dr. Matthew Roberts from the Icelandic Meteorological Office offers insights through an informative video.

Volcanic activity on the Reykjanes Peninsula

Since October last year, The Icelandic Meteorological Office has observed increased geophysical activity in the area. This activity has led to repeated volcanic eruptions close to the town of Grindavík. The town has been evacuated with brief intermissions since November 10th to guarantee the safety of residents. The eruption does not pose an immediate threat to people, and no further evacuations are necessary at this time. 

Iceland is well-acquainted with volcanic activity, having experienced three previous eruptions nearby on the Reykjanes Peninsula in 2021, 2022, and 2023. Icelandic authorities and the public are thoroughly prepared for such events, and the country boasts some of the world's most sophisticated volcanic preparedness protocols. Iceland's geoscientists are extensively experienced in managing volcanic activity. 

More information:

• The Icelandic Road Administration : Information on road conditions and closures in the Reykjanes region 
• Safetravel : Updates on safety 
• The Icelandic National Broadcasting Service : News coverage 
• The Icelandic MET office : Latest information on the seismic activity and development of events. 
• Iceland Ministry for Foreign Affairs : FAQ regarding flights and other info 
• Visit Reykjanes : Updates from the region

For press inquiries, please contact [email protected] .

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Iceland Braces for Another Volcanic Blast. Should We Worry?

The Icelandic Meteorological Office has warned of an eruption “in the coming days.”

By Sarah Hurtes

Volcanoes have always fascinated us. Once revered as the abodes of the gods, some bring forth diamonds from the depths of the earth. But they also spit lava, shake the earth, unleash towering walls of water and repaint the world’s skies. And these days, Iceland’s volcanoes are erupting more than usual.

The Icelandic Meteorological Office on Tuesday issued a warning , bracing the country for an imminent eruption “in the coming days.” This would be the eighth eruption since March 2021 , which includes the awakening of a rugged, volcanic region in its southwestern parts that had been dormant for eight centuries.

“We’re going through a volcanic crisis,” said Matthew J. Roberts, the managing director of the Icelandic Meteorological Office. “This is perhaps the most intense period of volcanic activity affecting an urban environment at the moment.” Officials are now further restricting access to the likely eruption site, he said.

The latest episode began on May 29, when a volcano in southwestern Iceland erupted for the fourth time since December. More people had to move from Grindavik, a fishing town of 4,000 that has largely been abandoned since January after lava and earthquakes from previous eruptions split the town in two.

But how normal are these eruptions? Will it get worse? And could it affect summer air travel in Europe? The New York Times spoke to several experts to provide answers.

How normal are eruptions like this?

Volcanoes usually rest for centuries. The current activity in Iceland is a rare geological event, one that has been gradually transforming the nation’s landscape and daily life.

“This is a totally unparalleled and unexpected event,” Dr. Roberts said. “To think that this would happen in my human lifetime, it is remarkable.”

The earliest records of volcanic activity in Iceland date back to the time of its settlement by Norse explorers in the late ninth century. More recently, in 2010, the eruption of a volcano in southern Iceland became globally famous for its ash cloud, which disrupted air travel across Europe for several weeks.

On average, Iceland experiences some kind of volcanic activity approximately every three to four years. At the moment, a volcanic eruption is occurring almost every month.

While exceptional, it is also normal.

“It’s not unusual to have an eruption where it’s now happening,” said Christopher Kilburn, a professor of volcanology at the University College London. “It’s just been a long time since it last happened. But in the grand scheme of the evolution of the country, it’s within normal behavior.”

And to put things in an even broader perspective, there is no evidence of an increase in volcanic activity at the global scale. Seventy to 80 volcanoes erupt every year, and typically, around 20 volcanoes erupt at any one time. This year is on track.

“Iceland has eruptions. It’s a volcanic area,” said Ed Venzke, who manages the Smithsonian Institution’s Global Volcanism Program database. “One gets active, one shuts down, another picks up, there are some lava flows, fire fountains, there’s explosions, and it just keeps doing that.”

Are the latest eruptions signs that things are about to get worse?

A new volcanic zone in Iceland opened in 2021, and it is expected to keep producing small magma eruptions every few months for years, potentially even decades.

“This is a bit of a challenge because you can imagine that 800 years ago, no people were living in that portion of Iceland,” said Luca Caricchi, a geoscientist studying volcanoes at the University of Geneva in Switzerland. “Now, there’s a community. And the record shows that these eruptions can continue for tens of years or centuries.”

Eruptions can pose local risks, but experts doubt there will be widespread impact.

“We’re able to forecast eruptions with considerable accuracy,” Dr. Roberts said. “And we see they’re only hazardous locally. They don’t pose a problem to the rest of the country.”

Professor Kilburn said, “It’s not going to be a Hollywood wiping-out-the-planet scenario.”

Check these official resources for the latest.

Many countries have meteorological national centers that monitor volcanic activity. In Iceland, it’s the Icelandic Meteorological Office . Visit Iceland is also a good source.

The Smithsonian Institution’s Global Volcanism Program explains the world’s latest eruptions and has pages for individual volcanoes, with their individual reports , photos , eruption history and more.

There are also nine volcanic ash advisory centers across the planet, each planning for a certain segment of air space. These centers guide how and where to avoid volcanic ash, ensuring pilots and planes can continue flying without problems.

A spokesperson from the London VAAC , responsible for the northeast Atlantic and Scandinavia, said Iceland hadn’t produced significant volcanic ash, sufficient enough to affect air travel, since 2011.

The last time a volcano affected air travel on a global scale was in April 2010, when the Eyjafjallajokull volcano in Iceland erupted. An eruption of Grimsvotn in May 2011 caused some limited disruption to flights.

At the time, the guidance used worldwide by the International Civil Aviation Organization was: “In the case of volcanic ash, regardless of ash concentration — avoid, avoid, avoid.”

Sarah Hurtes is a Times reporter working on international investigations from Brussels. More about Sarah Hurtes

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Rare Archaeological Find: Carved Toy Animal Discovered in East Iceland

By Erik Pomrenke

• August 15, 2024

Archaeological excavations in the East Iceland village of Seyðisfjörður have uncovered an artefact that was likely a toy. Carved from volcanic rock, the animal resembles a bear or a pig.

Most likely a toy

In a statement to local paper Austurfrétt , Ragnheiður Traustadóttir, director of the Seyðisfjörður excavation, said: “We are examining the object more closely, but we still interpret it as a toy, but there are various opinions on what kind of animal it is.”

She continued, saying that the item most closely resembles a bear or boar, though other theories have also been proposed, including an Icelandic dog. “But when you hold the object,” she said, “it doesn’t seem like a dog.”

The object is 5 cm long and 2.7 cm wide, made of volcanic tuff (a kind of soft volcanic rock), and very well preserved. Ragnheiður noted that it’s rare for toys to be found at excavation sites, especially ones in such good condition. One ear on the toy is slightly damaged, but the toy can still stand on a flat surface. “It is rare for toys to be found in excavations here in Iceland,” Ragnheiður stated. “But it is entirely logical since children existed in this period, as in any other.”

Read more: Excavation Unearths Jewelry from Earliest Settlement Period

The recent discovery, though notable, is not unique in Seyðisfjörður. Archaeologists in the East Iceland village have been excavating since 2020, uncovering well-preserved structures and artefacts dating from 940 to 1100, thanks to successive landslide layers. Recent significant finds include a bead featuring the colours of the Icelandic flag, generating widespread interest. The bead, along with other discoveries like game pieces and pearls, was found near the farmstead of Bjólfur, an early Icelandic settler.

Many other artefacts found this summer

Archaeologists in Seyðisfjörður have uncovered a significant number of artefacts made from volcanic tuff this summer, including 70 chess piece fragments and other items like spindle whorls and a rock crystal, all dating from 940 to 1000.

In total, some 600 artefacts have been found in Seyðisfjörður this summer.

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