visit iceland april

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

April is a transitional month in Iceland, as the winter snows are melting and the landscape is beginning to come alive with springtime colors. Iceland in April is a great time to visit if you’re looking to experience Iceland’s natural beauty without the crowds of the peak summer season.

However, there are also some challenges to traveling to Iceland during this month. In this guide, we’ll explore the pros and cons of visiting Iceland in April and provide you with some helpful tips to plan your trip.

About Iceland in the Spring

Iceland in april: pros, iceland in april: cons, events in iceland in april, visiting in march instead, visiting in may 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 April

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

April is a great time to visit Iceland as the country is slowly coming out of winter and the weather is starting to warm up. The days are also getting longer, providing more opportunities to explore. One of the biggest draws of visiting Iceland in April is the chance to see the Northern Lights before they disappear for the summer.

The winter snow also begins to melt in April, revealing stunning landscapes and waterfalls that were previously hidden. Additionally, April marks the start of Iceland’s puffin season, when the adorable birds return to the country’s coastal cliffs to breed. It’s also a great time to visit the Westfjords, as the roads and hiking trails begin to open up after the winter closures.

Overall, April is a great time to visit Iceland if you want to experience the country before the summer crowds arrive. The weather can still be unpredictable and there may be some residual winter weather, but the benefits of seeing the Northern Lights, puffins, and springtime landscapes more than make up for it. Just be sure to pack warm layers and waterproof gear to be prepared for any weather.

While visiting Iceland in April can be a great experience in many ways, there are a few downsides to keep in mind. One of the biggest cons is that April can still be quite cold, with temperatures often hovering around freezing or just above. This means you’ll need to pack warm clothing and be prepared for chilly weather, even if you’re planning to do activities like hiking or sightseeing.

Another potential downside of visiting Iceland in April is that some of the country’s top attractions, like the Highlands and certain hiking trails, may still be inaccessible due to snow and ice.

Additionally, while the days are getting longer in April, it’s still not quite light for 24 hours like it is during the summer months, which means you’ll have less daylight to work with if you’re hoping to pack a lot of activities into your trip.

Finally, it’s worth noting that April is considered part of Iceland’s shoulder season, which means that prices may still be relatively high compared to other destinations.

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

• Reykjavik Folk Festival – This three-day festival features traditional folk music from Iceland and other Nordic countries.
• Food and Fun Festival – This popular food festival showcases the best of Icelandic cuisine, with top chefs from around the world coming to Reykjavik to prepare special dishes using local ingredients.
• Easter – Icelanders celebrate Easter in a big way, with lots of traditional foods, including smoked lamb, chocolate eggs, and special bread.
• DesignMarch – This festival showcases the best of Icelandic design, with exhibitions and events taking place across Reykjavik.
• Reykjavik Blues Festival – Fans of blues music won’t want to miss this festival, which brings together top musicians from Iceland and around the world for several days of concerts and events.
• The First Day of Summer – This national holiday marks the beginning of the summer season in Iceland and is celebrated with parades, concerts, and other outdoor events.
• International Viking Festival – Held in Hafnarfjordur, this festival celebrates Viking history and culture with a variety of events and activities.

Tips for Visiting Iceland in April

Visiting Iceland in May can be a great choice for those who want to experience the country’s beauty in full bloom. One of the main advantages of visiting in May is the weather. With temperatures ranging from 5-13°C (41-55°F), it is a comfortable time to explore Iceland’s landscapes. The days are also longer, with up to 21 hours of daylight, giving visitors ample time to explore the natural wonders of Iceland.

May is also a great time for wildlife watching. Many birds return to Iceland in May to breed, including puffins, Arctic terns, and guillemots. In addition, it is common to spot seals and whales along the coastlines. May is also a great time to visit the Westfjords region, as many of the roads are only open during the summer months.

However, it is important to note that May can still have its share of rainy and windy days. It is always important to check the weather forecast and road conditions before setting out on any adventures in Iceland. Additionally, May is a popular time for tourism, so it is recommended to book accommodations and activities well in advance to avoid disappointment.

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 .

If you’re considering a trip to Iceland in April, you may want to consider visiting in March instead. Although the weather can still be cold and unpredictable in March, the days are longer, with up to 13 hours of daylight towards the end of the month.

This means more time to explore Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes and natural wonders. Additionally, visiting in March may be less crowded than in April since it is still considered the shoulder season.

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

While April can be a great time to visit Iceland, it’s worth considering a trip in May instead. The weather is generally milder, with longer days and less chance of snowstorms, making it easier to travel and explore.

May is also a great time to see Iceland’s wildlife, with puffins returning to the shores and whales migrating closer to the coast. Plus, the Icelandic music scene comes alive in May with the annual Reykjavik Folk Festival.

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

Overall, visiting Iceland in April can be a rewarding experience, but it’s important to be prepared for the weather and the crowds. If you’re looking for a quieter and potentially more affordable trip, consider visiting in March instead.

Alternatively, May offers milder weather, longer days, and more opportunities for wildlife viewing and cultural events. Whatever month you choose, make sure to pack appropriately, plan your itinerary in advance, and don’t forget to experience Iceland’s unique culture and hospitality.

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April in Iceland: Your Expert Guide to Weather, Daylight, Events + Natural Wonders

Have you ever wondered what April in Iceland is like? 

It’s the time of year when the country is slowly waking up from winter, stretching its arms and breathing in the cool crisp air as sunlight peeks through the blinds.

The mood is lighter in April in Iceland as summer draws near. 

Nature starts to come alive with puffins nesting, daylight hours increase, and the Northern Lights bid a final farewell.

In this post, I’ll be answering your questions about weather, sightseeing, driving, festivals, and more for your adventure in April in Iceland.

Let’s get into it!

Table of Contents:

Is April a Good Time to Visit Iceland?

Iceland april daylight hours, april in iceland: northern lights.

• Temperature in Iceland in April

What To Wear in Iceland in April

Sightseeing availability.

• Driving in April in Iceland

Aldrei Fór Ég Suður 

Children’s culture festival.

• Things To Do in Iceland in April
• Iceland Guidebooks + Maps

April in Iceland is a great time to experience the snow-kissed beauty of winter while enjoying slightly warmer weather and longer hours for sightseeing. There are also numerous festivals and events happening throughout the month. 

Let me share a few reasons why I think April is a good time to visit Iceland.

Puffins: At the very end of April in Iceland, the puffins start arriving to mate and nest. A couple of great viewing spots include Dyrhólaey and Ingólfshöfði Nature Reserve. While peak season is May-August, you might just be able to spot some of these adorable creatures if you’re arriving late in the month!

More daylight hours: More daylight hours are always very exciting because this means more time in which to explore. Iceland has numerous iconic attractions and with extended daylight hours, you can make the most of your trip by ticking off more places off your bucket list!

Off-peak season: April is still considered shoulder season, and with that, comes a few perks. 

There aren’t that many crowds at this time. Prices on accommodation, tours, and rentals tend to be a little bit cheaper, making April a great time to travel to Iceland.

Northern Lights : If you want to catch the northern lights in April, I assume that you’re someone that lives for the rush of doing things at the last minute, aren’t you? 😉 It’s still possible to see them at the beginning of April, although it’s not ideal due to the extended daylight hours. 

Accessibility : As the snow starts melting, areas that were previously a no-go in the middle of winter, like the Westfjörds, become accessible in April. But remember, the weather conditions are temperamental and if you’re planning a trip, remember that driving can be a challenge.

So, let’s talk about the number of daylight hours you’re getting in April in Iceland.

There’s a lot to see in Iceland and you’ll want to make the most of the time you have. Knowing how much daylight you have is key to effectively planning your days. 

At the beginning of April, you’re looking at around 13 hours of daylight, but by the end of the month, it’s up to about 16 hours. 

So, it’s getting a lot brighter with lots of daylight hours for exploring!

If you’re hoping to see the aurora, April in Iceland is the very tail end of the Northern Lights season. 

The last opportunity to catch them is around the mid-April mark. Anything past that, it’s not getting dark enough into the evening to see the aurora.

I recommend taking a Northern Lights tour because the guides know the exact spots that will maximize your chances of viewing them. 

Keep reading, I’ll get to awesome tour suggestions in a bit… 😉

If you’d prefer to venture out on your own, I dedicated a whole blog post on how to see the Northern Lights and the best spots to view them below.👇

➡️ READ : How To See The Northern Lights In Iceland: Best Viewing Spots, When To Go And MORE

April in Iceland: Weather 

If you’re living in the northern hemisphere, April is usually considered a spring month. 

But in Iceland, things are a little different. 

I like to say that Iceland basically has two seasons: Winter and winter-lite. April in Iceland feels like the latter! 😂

I often get asked, is there snow in Iceland in April? 

Yes, snowfall is possible.

You can expect wind, rain, sun, and possibly snow, so be prepared for all types of weather. 

The average rainfall will be 72.2mm (2.9 in.), less than what we experienced since January.

The snow may be starting to melt, and you may even see some green grass and flowers blooming, but you never really know.

The landscapes might still be mostly brown with snow-capped mountains, but they’re still absolutely stunning!

Temperature In Iceland In April

You can still expect there to be a chill in the air, but it is starting to warm up slightly.

The average temperature in Iceland in April is between 1 degree Celsius (34 degrees Fahrenheit) and 6 degrees Celsius. 

So, it’s not your typical spring, remember – winter-lite! 😉

If one thing’s for sure, it’s that April weather in Iceland is definitely unpredictable.

The number one recommendation I always have when wondering what to wear in Iceland in April is to pack layers. 

This way, you can easily add or remove layers based on the rapidly changing weather. Because yes, in Iceland it can easily feel like you can experience all four seasons in just one day!

As you can still expect wind, rain, and snow, these layers need to be waterproof and windproof, especially the outer shell.

Need help deciding what to pack for April in Iceland? Check out my Ultimate Iceland Packing Guide!

In it, you’ll find essential weather information for all the seasons, packing tips, and checklists to make planning your trip effortless. I’ve even included what to pack for the kids!

Download my FREE Packing Guide below 👇

Outer layer: This would include a wind and waterproof jacket, and lightweight hiking pants that are also comfortable. A hat or headband will help keep you warm, especially when the wind picks up. 

One of my favorite things is my touchscreen gloves . Whether I’m referring to my maps, recording content, or taking photographs, these gloves allow me to use my electronic devices without having to remove them. 

If you must choose between a scarf or a buff, opt for the latter because it’s more compact and packs away easily if you don’t need it. 

Layers : Be sure to bring thermal base layers , several long-sleeved tops and sweaters, and comfy stretchy leggings! I also love all things wool because there’s nothing quite like it to trap in heat! If you’ve been looking for the perfect sweater, you need to check out the original Icelandic Lopapeysa. It’ll be the best sweater you’ve ever owned, trust me!

➡️ READ : Icelandic Lopapeysa: Your Guide to Buying Authentic Icelandic Wool Sweaters

Footwear : I can’t emphasize enough how important it is to bring good quality hiking shoes that are waterproof and comfortable. We’ve all been there, walking in uncomfortable shoes that cause blisters can really put a damper on your day! 

Iceland has a huge pool culture and if you’ve added the hot springs to your itinerary, pack a pair of flip-flops.

Bottom line: You have to be prepared for all seasons. If you want a more in-depth look at what to pack for April in Iceland, I highly suggest referring to my spring packing list blog below for more details👇

➡️ READ : Iceland Spring Packing List: Pack Like A Pro In April + May

It can be tricky knowing which areas are accessible for sightseeing, especially when the seasons change. This is what you can expect in April in Iceland regarding accessibility to some of the most popular sights

Reykjavík , Golden Circle, South Iceland, and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula : In terms of sightseeing, these areas are easily accessible in April. They are some of the most popular routes in Iceland and the roads are well-maintained so you can easily venture out and enjoy all the attractions. 

East Iceland, Westfjörds, and the north part of the Ring Road : You’re going to want to exercise a bit more caution with these areas, especially the Westfjörds.

I traveled to the Westfjörds in April, but it was challenging, to say the least! You may encounter some pretty terrible weather and a ton of snow, especially on the mountain passes. For this reason, I still always suggest a 4W drive in the winter, including April. But more on that in a bit.

We also had difficulty accessing certain things like restaurants because they were still closed for the winter season. 

Highlands, Þórsmörk , Landmannalaugar, and surrounding areas : These areas are completely off-limits in April. It’s generally colder, with more snow, and too dangerous to access them this time of year.

Driving in April in Iceland 

The weather in April in Iceland is very unpredictable.

On the one hand, the roads could be very slippery, and snowy and storms could lead to road closures. 

On the other hand, the snow could already be melting and you could experience nice weather and the roads are fine. 

It makes me think of the famous Forrest Gump quote, … “ You never know what you’re gonna get” . 😅

It’s always a good idea to be prepared for difficult driving conditions.

Now, the decision on whether you should rent a 2WD or a 4WD in April will depend on where you plan on going. If you’re sticking to the popular routes where the roads are maintained, you could probably get away with a 2W drive. Personally, I suggest a 4WD for April. 

I made a video on this topic that I’m sure you’ll find helpful, so make sure to check that out below👇 

Pro tip: Always check the road conditions before heading out for the day because it can really have a huge impact on your travel plans. Check the local website road.is where you’ll find out information about traffic, road closures, and road conditions. 

Want to go with the best Icelandic car rental company out there? 

Exclusive offer for IWAV readers, Blue Car Rental is offering 5% off your total rental price! The discount will automatically be applied at checkout when you use my VIP link above – no code needed!

April Festivals + Events

A few fun events are happening during April in Iceland, on everything from culture to sports.  

Some of these dates might change from year to year, so if you’re planning a visit, make sure to double-check the dates for these events for the year you’re coming to see if they line up.

The most important Icelandic holiday in April to keep in mind is Easter. Now, this holiday either falls over March or April, so again, please keep this in mind before you travel. 

Icelanders take Easter very seriously – they get a few days off work before the holiday and extend the break until the Monday after Easter.

Just a heads up, lots of places might have limited hours or be closed during this time.

Icelanders love candy, and for Easter, they go crazy with chocolates! 

It’s the best kind of crazy. 😄

They’ll sell huge chocolate eggs, and inside of that egg, there are even more chocolates and treats. I swear, the eggs are about the size of your head! 

You can, however, buy them in a range of sizes from huge, down to miniature size and they’re often given out as gifts.

You can be sure of one thing, there will always be chocolates during Easter!

A festival that happens around the Easter season is called Aldrei fór ég suður, which means, “I never went south.” 

This is a really big, fun music celebration that happens in Ísafjörður in the Westfjörds. 

The festival’s name comes from a song by Bubbi Morthens, who apparently “never went south” to Reykjavík; and each year local musicians perform at this festival.

The festival is free and what’s interesting is that each band has the same amount of time to play and there’s no sound check before the time.

It’s a really fun experience!

This is a great event to check out for anyone who’s into winter snow sports.

AK Extreme is a snowboarding event that happens in Akureyri, north Iceland. It draws massive crowds and you’ll have people competing locally or from abroad. 

This event usually spans over 3 days and there are also music festivals that coincide with it.

This festival is all about children and focuses on exposing the youth to various art forms through workshops and performances. 

You can expect to see theater, art, puppetry, dance, music, and more, all aimed to spark creativity. 

Check it out, especially if you’re traveling with kids!

➡️ READ: Plan The Ultimate Iceland Family Holiday: 8 Tips To Help You Travel Better With Kids

Things To Do In Iceland In April

If you’re wondering what to do in Iceland in April, you’ve got plenty of options! With the changing season and increase in daylight hours, there are lots of breathtaking sights to explore. 

Areas that were closed during winter, are now starting to open as the weather improves. And this is also the last chance you’ll get to experience some of those activities that are only available over the winter.

Glacier Hike: An incredible way to explore Icelandic nature is with a glacier hike! Drive by Eyjafjallajökull glacier, and then visit Sólheimajökull glacier tongue that extends from one of Iceland’s largest glaciers. Basic hiking gear and safety equipment are provided.

Tour: South Coast & Glacier Hiking

Puffins: At the very end of April in Iceland, the Puffins start arriving. They come back to land to nest and have their babies and it’s a really cool thing to see, even if you don’t consider yourself to be a bird whisperer! Check out this video if you’d like to find out more about these sweet Icelandic creatures.👇

Northern Lights: If you want to catch the aurora, make sure that your Northern Lights tour is booked as early in the month as possible to avoid disappointment. This really is the last time you’ll be able to see them until winter rolls around again!

➡️ Take A Tour: DT 10 Northern Lights

Snowmobiling: If you’ve ever wanted to go snowmobiling on a glacier, this is your chance. Hold on to your woolen hat!

➡️ Take A Tour: Pearl Tour – Golden Circle Super Jeep Tour & Snowmobiling

Geothermal pools: Pool culture is HUGE in Iceland! Take a soak in one of the country’s relaxing geothermal pools or spas – there’s at least one in every town. It’s the perfect way to end a day of adventuring! A word to the wise -if you’re interested in experiencing the geothermal pools but not up for the crowds, then check out this post I did on Blue Lagoon alternatives:

➡️ READ MORE :  Top 10 Blue Lagoon Alternatives: Hot Springs, Pools, and Spas That Are Just as Breathtaking

Waterfalls : Iceland is estimated to have over 10,000 waterfalls, so you absolutely cannot leave without visiting at least one of them! Check out some of my top favorite waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, and Goðafoss. Trust me you won’t be disappointed!

➡️ Take A Tour: Silver Circle Small Group Day Tour | Canyon Baths, Waterfalls & Sagas

Iceland Guidebooks + Maps 

Planning a trip to Iceland can feel overwhelming, especially with the language barrier, wild weather, and the hurdles of reaching remote locations.

An overseas holiday to Iceland may feel completely out of your comfort zone. 

But please don’t let that hold you back from experiencing one of the best trips of your life! 

It doesn’t have to be daunting. 

Whether it’s your first time in Iceland or you’re a seasoned traveler, my Iceland Guidebooks + Maps is the game-changing resource you’re looking for.

✅ Stop the endless Google and forum searches (riddled with outdated and incorrect information!)

✅ Get a detailed digital map with over 500 pinned locations of must-see attractions, hidden gems, and practical information like gas stations and grocery stores.

✅ Stay up-to-date with the latest tips and local insights like opening hours, fees, and menus from someone who’s lived in Iceland for 9 years. 

If you’re on the fence, take a look at what Laura Thompson had to say about it:

“ This is a must-buy when planning your trip! I have told EVERYONE I know to get this. The hidden gems are worth it alone but the maps were a lifesaver! I even used the printouts when we did our slideshow to provide more background on each location we visited. When Jeanie rates the places 10/5…GO! Buy the bundle, go adventure, and have a great time!”

Happy Planning, 

Pin it for later! 👇🏼

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Iceland in April – Events, and Activities, Where to go, What to Wear, and More

• Last Updated: May 21, 2024
• Norbert Zohó

Iceland is a world of wonder any time of the year, with terrific activities and fascinating sights year-round. Visiting Iceland in April provides an excellent opportunity to travel on a low budget, avoid crowds, and experience a bit of every season.

April is one of the cheapest months to visit Iceland. It’s also a month full of stunning sunsets that marks the epic start of summer, where the seasons seem to be fighting a war. There are so many incredible adventures and things to do in Iceland in April, and here is our ultimate guide.

What to Expect When You Visit Iceland in April

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April in Iceland offers fantastic opportunities. The weather is primarily chilly, but with increasing daylight hours and some warm days, nature is springing back to life.

Visitors can often witness fabulous contrasts: the budding leaves of spring, snow-capped mountains, and the Northern Lights still paint their bursts of color above the frosty, snow-dusted scenery.

Iceland awakens from its winter slumber a bit later than mainland Europe, with grass and leaves appearing in mid or late April. Sometimes the snow doesn’t melt until May, but spring can arrive earlier in April in more fortunate years.

Spring is a time for renewal. The snow melts, and life returns. The landscape is primarily brown as it slowly reveals itself under the snow. Snowfall isn’t uncommon this month, and the weather is somewhat unpredictable.

Migratory birds return to Iceland in April, along with springtime travelers. You can still do winter activities, such as ice caving, Northern lights watching and skiing at the beginning of spring. These options become unavailable as the weather improves and darkness disappears from the night. As the snow melts, the roads become safer for driving.

April is a slow season in tourism. Flights to Iceland are cheaper than the rest of the year, and visitors can also score lower prices and terrific deals on accommodations and car rentals. The lower prices make the season an ideal time for budget travelers to discover the country.

If you prefer to avoid the tourist crowds and have a quieter vacation, visiting Iceland in April could be for you.

The Weather in Iceland in April

April is the first month of spring in Iceland, but it still feels like winter more than spring. Temperatures barely reach over freezing but can go as high as 5–8°C (41–46.4°F), while Northern Iceland remains colder. The wind speed continues to weaken as summer gets closer, and the precipitation is considerably less than during the winter.

Around the second part of April is when spring finally comes along. The winter temperatures rise as high as 8 degrees (46.4°F) on some days, but snow and frost aren’t uncommon, and the weather is notoriously fickle. Like in winter, expect the unexpected in spring: pleasant days with bright sunshine or gloomy days with sudden snowstorms.

April can get pretty wet, although it’s supposed to be better than March. Both rain and snow are possible, accumulating up to 58 mm of rainfall and about 12 days of rain. The average sunshine in April lasts 4-5 hours per day, so you have time to take some sunny pictures.

However, the wind is the biggest issue concerning April weather. The wind makes everything feel much colder, especially with rain or snow. Prepare yourself and pack accordingly for Iceland in April!

From the middle of April, the daylight is so long that nights turn completely bright by the end of the month. Daylight periods are 13 hours long in the first days of April and are over 16 hours around the last days, with a noticeable change every day.

April is the month Icelanders say goodbye to dark winters and hello to the bright summer months. The Aurora Borealis also eventually disappears. Starting in mid-April, there’s no longer any darkness at night. The white nights and the midnight sun replace the Northern Lights until the end of summer.

Until around the 15th of April, it’s possible to see the Northern Lights or Aurora in Iceland – if you’re lucky. There’s still some darkness at night; however, the sun sets very late and rises early, so dark periods occur well after midnight. As the days get longer, the night gets brighter until they stay almost entirely bright all night long, making it impossible to view the Northern Lights properly.

Read our complete Aurora Guide to learn more about your options and how to maximize your chances of seeing them.

Glacial caves are short-lived and ever-changing wonders. They form in early winter and stay stable throughout the season but will most likely collapse or get filled up with meltwater during the spring. When the meltwater returns, it destroys everything. And once an ice cave collapses, it will never return to the same form, but another ice cave can form in the exact location next winter. How exciting is that?

If you want to visit an ice cave inside a glacier in April, you’ll have to do so at the very beginning of the month. As temperatures rise, the ice caves can become unstable and too dangerous to visit. While most ice caves are closed in the spring, Myrdalsjokull glacier near the village of Vik has a cave that’s still open during April.

Since ice caves are located on glaciers, you can only explore them with a certified guide, so you’ll have to book a tour.

There are better times for camping and hiking in Iceland than in April. The conditions in the mountains are still very wintry, making it challenging and unsafe to hike. The Highland roads are closed until late June, meaning that the most popular hiking areas are completely inaccessible.

Avalanches can occur in the mountains due to rising temperatures, while the paths can become muddy and slippery at lower elevations. The vegetation is especially fragile in spring, so authorities often close off whole areas for vegetation protection.

Camping in tents is not recommended due to wintry conditions and unstable weather. On the other hand, campervan camping is more comfortable and safe at this time of the year. Many campgrounds will open again after the long winter, although most campsites remain closed until May. Please note that staying overnight in a campervan or any other vehicle is forbidden outside the designated camping areas.

Even though many minor and highland roads might still be closed in April, the main road, Ring Road, is kept open. The road to famous sights such as the Snaefellsnes peninsula, South Coast, or Golden Circle is easy to navigate during this month.

However, we advise you to use a four-wheeler for driving during this month. The roads can be very slippery and snowy, and closures are possible depending on what the weather decides to do. You can expect closures and difficult driving conditions if there’s a storm. But sometimes, April can also be lovely, with things melting, fine weather, and passable roads. You just never know with April, so be prepared for both situations.

If you want to be extra safe, try joining a guided day tour or multi-day tour, where all you have to do is to sit back and enjoy the scenery!

How to Travel Around in Iceland in April

First, think about your preferred mode of transportation for exploring Iceland. Guided tours and rental cars are the most popular options, but you can also rent a car with a driver for a private tour .

Traveling with a local guide is always your safest option. When joining a group tour, your tour guide will take care of you and ensure you’re well-equipped, well-informed, and entertained. You’ll also meet new people and form new and meaningful friendships.

Meanwhile, solo/independent travelers have more room for spontaneous, flexible, and budget-friendly plans. You can also save money when traveling without a guide. However, this also means you’ll have to plan, organize, and gather information about the destinations yourself. Self-drive exploration in April should only be done by those with experience driving in wintry conditions, and slippery roads.

Between these two options are tailor-made, self-drive packages . Your local travel advisor will create a full itinerary based on your preferences. They also take care of all your bookings, rental cars, lodging, and other activities. This is a perfect choice if you want to travel solo but don’t have much time for planning. Self-Drive and Road Tripping.

A customized self-drive holiday is perfect if you dream of exploring Iceland independently. All necessary bookings, such as rental cars and accommodations, are already handled while you can still enjoy the freedom and flexibility of driving around the country. Custom-made self-drive vacationing is rapidly gaining popularity among tourists.

Remember to check the road and weather conditions before your journey daily. You should expect all sorts of weather in Iceland in April; it can quickly change from one second to the next. The Iceland SafeTravel website is helpful; you should regularly check it for updates. Bad weather can cause you to restructure your plans for the day due to road closures, floods, avalanches, and other issues.

If a road is closed, don’t drive through it anyway—it’s closed for a good reason! Attempting to drive through closed roads puts you in danger and results in your needing to be rescued, which is also hazardous for the rescuers. Your insurance doesn’t cover towing fees and hefty fines.

Consider a car with a driver’s guide instead. Doing so allows you to go wherever and whenever you want with the help of an experienced local driver at the wheel. Any privacy you lose could be well worth it for convenience and safety.

Day Tours from Reykjavík

Many visitors use Reykjavik as a base and discover Iceland on day trips. This is a great way to explore the nation without extensive driving while still being able to return to your cozy and comfortable accommodation. You can reach most of Iceland’s headline attractions through day trips, especially the south and west of the country.

We’ve compiled a list of the top day trips from Reykjavik to help you plan your next winter getaway.

Find more options here

Best Things to See and Do in April

Sightseeing and exploration.

Lots of places offer fantastic sightseeing opportunities during April.

You must visit the always-popular Golden Circle , which features some of Iceland’s top natural attractions. April is an ideal time to explore the tourist route without dealing with crowds.

Thingvellir National Park is usually the first stop from the capital. Full of fascinating geological formations and scenic landscapes, it’s home to the Silfra Fissure—the gap between the Eurasian and North American continental plates. Not only that but the fissure is also steeped in history – it’s the founding site of one of the world’s longest-running parliaments since 930 AD.

Make sure you stop at the Geysir Geothermal Area. Wafts of steam and bubbling water break the snowy ground, with the surrounding earth having striking bold hues. Watch in awe as the mighty Strokkur Geysir sends a powerful jet of hot water into the air every five to ten minutes.

Of course, don’t miss the beautiful Gullfoss Waterfall, where the water cascades over two levels to enter a rugged scenic gorge. To learn more about the rest of the significant highlights and hidden gems, read our complete guide to the Golden Circle route and its wonderful attractions.

After the Golden Circle, the South Coast is the other most popular tourist route in Iceland, so it is definitely recommended to visit. You’ll find several mesmerizing waterfalls, dazzling glaciers, striking black sand beaches, and a gigantic lava field. Don’t miss the shimmering géacier lagoons dotted with small icebergs too. Again, April is an ideal time to explore these popular natural attractions without crowds.

Driving nonstop from the capital city to the lagoon would take around four and a half hours, but, of course, you’ll stop plenty of times along the way to visit Iceland’s most scenic places, such as the infamous Eyjafjallajökull volcano (known for its 2010 eruption that stopped flights), the epic Vatnajökull National Park, the giant Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, the enchanting village of Vik, and the striking black sand beach at Reynisfjara, just to mention a few places. Here is an in-depth guide to the top attractions of Iceland’s South Coast.

Lesser-Known Gems to Visit in Iceland in April

The gorgeous Reykjanes Peninsula and Snæfellsnes Peninsula are underrated regions, even though they offer fantastic natural attractions and landscapes.

The Reykjanes Peninsula is a fantastic place outside the capital with geothermal activity. It’s where you’ll find the Blue Lagoon , Iceland’s newest volcanic eruption sites, and Keflavik International Airport!

Reykjanes, also known as the Smokey Peninsula, is where the Eurasian and North American continental plates meet. Because of this, more minor seismic activities and earthquakes are every day. You can also find hot springs spouting boiling water all around the peninsula.

Rough, dark lava with mossy tops cover the entirety of the peninsula. The colors are genuinely fascinating, ranging from dark grey to red to turquoise blue. Thanks to those colors, Reykjanes is a photographer’s paradise. Its vast views and smokey mysteriousness genuinely add to the visiting experience.

Due to its landscape diversity, this area is nicknamed “Iceland in Miniature.” Some of its most famous attractions are Ytri Tunga beach which features a seal colony; the picturesque Londrangar basalt cliffs; the mighty Snaefellsjokull glacier, the quaint fishing villages of Arnarstapi and Hellnar; and the Kirkjufell mountain, among many others.

There’s so much to see here that we’ve listed the main attractions in our guide for top places on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.

April is still winter in the Highlands so accessing this area in springtime is only possible if you’re on a Super Jeep tour. Tours use these vehicles to conquer the thick snow and icy rivers, with skilled drivers who can find their way around in the most challenging conditions.

Bathing in naturally warm water is a centuries-old local tradition. Heated swimming pools and luxury spas eventually took over. However, some natural hot springs still exist and are considered local secrets. Soaking in mineral-rich geothermal water has many health benefits. It is a genuinely unique, rejuvenating experience that we highly recommend to anyone visiting Iceland.

Reykjadalur valley , 45 km (28 mi.) away from the country’s capital city, features a warm river that winds through the center of the valley. If you prefer a more accessible location, consider the famous Blue Lagoon or one of the newer geothermal pools, such as the Sky Lagoon or Hvammsvík hot springs . So relax, unwind and recharge like a local! See the selection of geothermal tours here.

Visitors can enjoy diving and snorkeling worldwide, but Iceland is where you can dive or snorkel between two continental plates . Silfra Fissure, a natural rift between the North American and Eurasian plates, is filled with fresh water.

Divers from all over the world come to Iceland to experience Silfra Fissure. It is uniquely located between two continental plates. It has the most transparent fresh water and the most outstanding underwater visibility in the world. It’s no wonder that Silfra is on everyone’s bucket list!

You only need to sign up for a diving or snorkeling tour. That way, you can safely experience the incredible sensation of being in a tectonic plate gap.

While you can hike an Icelandic glacier at all times of the year, April offers an exceptionally breathtaking adventure. As the snow melts from the glacier, it uncovers the naked, blue glacial ice, shimmering and sparkling in the sunlight.

There are two main glaciers you can enjoy hiking in April: Solheimajokull Glacier near Vík in the south and Vatnajökull further to the east. Go with an experienced local guide to discover many interesting facts about Iceland’s fascinating geology.

One of the most exciting activities you can do in Iceland is snowmobiling. The country offers several incredible virgin ice caps, which you can easily explore at high speeds on a snowmobile without needing physical exertion.

Vatnajökull, Mýrdalsjökull, and Langjökull ice caps are the three top snowmobiling spots in Iceland. A visit to Langjökull is often combined with the Golden Circle sightseeing route, so you can do both in one day if you wish! Glacier snowmobiling is possible all year round in Iceland.

Lava caving is another great year-round activity. The unusual caves are filled with impressive icicles and natural ice formations in winter that still lasts during the first weeks of April.

Water drips slowly through the porous lava rocks throughout the year. This water freezes when the temperatures drop over the winter, causing magical mini-stalactites to form. Some water drops that make it to the ground also freeze, creating enchanting ice shapes. The icy, glittering effect certainly makes for amazing photo opportunities.

You’ll be provided a helmet and crampons for your tour, though you should be confident walking on slippery, uneven ground.

The spectacular lava caves at Raufarholshellir and Vidgelmir offer wide-open spaces that clearly define walkways for you to enjoy the sights. You won’t need to climb or crawl. They are recommended for visitors who want to experience a lava cave but need to be more comfortable walking across the ice.

The Icelandic horse is the most famous four-legged resident of Iceland. This breed is well-known for its tiny stature, short legs, and muscular build. It’s also renowned for its five gaits, its ability to resist the harsh Icelandic climate, and its reliability.

The Icelandic horse was once both an essential method of transport and a working tool, and it still holds an important place in the traditional Icelandic lifestyle. Today, these beautiful animals are used for leisure activities; exploring Iceland on horseback allows you to see areas you can’t access on foot or by car. This is a true adventure that you should take advantage of. Find horse riding tours here.

Super jeeps or monster trucks, with their oversized tires, have been gaining popularity as they are the best way to drive safely in snowy, icy winter conditions.

With a regular car, you can’t reach certain areas of the country in April. But with a super jeep, you can go to the most remote places in Iceland or even the more remote corners of the Icelandic Highlands.

There are super jeep day tours that go to many different locations. These tours suit everyone as they are safe and secure and employ expert guides.

You can find over twenty species of whale, dolphin, and porpoise off the coast of Iceland, making the country a top destination for whale watchers. Boat tours leave from Reykjavík or Akureyri, but the most successful tours leave from Húsavík and Dalvík.

You can spot humpback whales, white-beaked dolphins, and harbor porpoises almost daily. A few lucky visitors will also have the chance to see other species, including orcas, fin whales, blue whales, or even narwhals. There are also a variety of seabirds, including skuas, Arctic terns, guillemots, and the colorful, cute puffin.

What to Wear in Iceland in April

How you cope with the unpredictable Icelandic weather largely depends on how you dress. As the saying goes, “There’s no bad weather, only unsuitable clothing.” While Icelandic weather can be hostile, it’s better to prepare by bringing a good set of clothing.

Layers are essential regardless of what season you visit. Always wear a set of long-sleeved undergarments made of good quality material that dries quickly.

The second layer is your insulation. This should match your body heat to keep you warm. You’ll need a fleece or woolen sweater in summer and an additional down jacket in winter. One layer of trousers should be enough in good weather, but if the weather forecast doesn’t look very promising in the morning for that day, better to have a layer of long underpants.

Finally, the outer layer should protect you from the wind and rain. Your outer shell jacket and trousers must provide good water and wind protection while allowing your skin to breathe. In April, an insulated, waterproof jacket is the best choice. It doesn’t have to be super warm. Still, it’s crucial that it is comfortable and you can wear more layers under it, ensuring good insulation if the weather is terrible and avoiding overheating if the sun shows itself.

For footwear, always wear sturdy and waterproof boots. Leather hiking boots are always a great choice! Avoid wearing sneakers and high heels when you visit the countryside for natural attractions, as the terrain is uneven, muddy, or frozen in April.

Lastly, always pack a hat, gloves, and a scarf or buff, just in case you need them! And don’t forget to pack your swimming gear.

Packing List for Iceland Travel in April

This is what you should pack for your April trip to Iceland:

• Long-sleeved undergarments (preferably merino wool)
• A sweater (wool or fleece)
• A down jacket or a winter parka (waterproof and windproof)
• Waterproof boots
• Insulated, water-repellent pants
• A warm, windproof hat, gloves, and scarf
• Pajamas/nightwear

How to Dress for City Life

Generally, Icelanders are pretty easygoing regarding dressing, and dress codes are not very common. Locals won’t mind tourists wearing outdoor clothing at the bar, but it’s always nice to dress up a bit for a restaurant or an upscale place. Still, it is more like an unwritten rule around major holidays such as Christmas and New Year.

In Iceland, fancy clothing goes perfectly well with a big, warm parka and warm boots, especially in winter. You don’t have to freeze to death just because you’re visiting a restaurant!

It’s good to avoid wearing functional hiking or skiing gear in downtown Reykjavík if you don’t want to stand out as a tourist, but no one will give you any weird looks if you do.

Other Useful Items:

• Reusable pocket warmers
• Hand cream and lip balm
• Reusable water bottle
• Bathing suit and a towel

Events in Iceland in April

Easter is a time for celebration in Iceland, but there aren’t many strange traditions, unlike Christmas.

Families gather for a meal on Easter weekend, and everybody eats way too much chocolate. Then, most Icelanders leave town for a short trip to the countryside. 

Several events dedicated to children and young people happen throughout Reykjavik at the end of April. The Children’s Culture Festival introduces youth to the arts via workshops and various performances. 

The focus is for the child to be an artist, so related activities are offered in schools, museums, libraries, and theaters. In addition, children and young people can join workshops to learn new skills such as rapping, DJing, hula-hooping, and kite-flying. 

Art shows and family-friendly exhibitions are hosted in venues such as the National Museum of Iceland and City Hall. The festival concludes with a giant children’s dance party where local artists produce the best dancing beats.

“I Never Went South,” or “ Aldrei For Eg Sudur ,” is a music festival held in Isafjordur during the Easter weekend. Started by the musician Mugison, this festival quickly became one of Iceland’s most significant musical events.

Everybody will find something they prefer at “I Never Went South.” Participating performers range from brass bands accordion players, heavy metal bands, and rappers. In addition, you’ll hear an eclectic array of local artists performing, backed by some of the biggest names in the Icelandic music industry, such as Paul Oscar, HAM, Retro Stefson, Glowie, Emiliana Torrini, and Solstafir.

The mountain Hlidarfjall, located next to Akureyri in North Iceland, is arguably Iceland’s top ski resort. It hosts several skiing and snowboarding events throughout the year, the biggest of which is the AK Extreme.

This four-day combination of snowboarding and music festival attracts over 7,000 visitors to the northern town each year. Snowboarders worldwide come to the festival to join in friendly competitions. 

One of the most exciting things to do in Reykjavik is the EVE Online Fanfest. EVE Online is a sci-fi, massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) set over 35,000 years in the future. CCP Games, an Icelandic game development, develop it.

Players can explore, trade, and fight throughout the 6,000 strange new worlds in the game. EVE Fanfest sees players and developers together in Reykjavik for a three-day celebration of the game.

Spring in the Northern Hemisphere starts on March 20 and ends on June 21. However, in the old Norse calendar, there were only two seasons, summer and winter. The first day of summer is officially the first Thursday after April 18. The date is preserved in the Viking Sagas and manuscripts.

Traditionally, the day has brought wind, rain, and even snow, but the country still celebrates this day with local fairs and parades led by scouts bearing the Icelandic flag. It is an official bank holiday in Iceland, and people celebrate it by exchanging gifts, usually related to summer activities, like bicycles, balls, and outdoor sports equipment.

As you can see, there are tons to look forwards to if you come to Iceland in April. Since visitor numbers are still relatively low at this time of year, accommodation and car rental prices represent better value than in peak season.

Though some of the more remote parts of the country are best left until late May or June, the Ring Road is open. So, what’s stopping you from taking that vacation you have promised yourself?

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April in Iceland | The Best Way To Do Iceland In April

April is an amazing month to visit Iceland . Not only is it the time when animal younglings are born (overloading the countryside with cuteness), but it’s  also the time when we start to see rapid changes in the weather! This means the first signs of spring, the first blossoms, and eventually, at the end of the month, the celebration of Iceland ’s National First Day of Summer.

There are a lot of festivals held in Iceland in April, and  you will have endless options for fun activities. Moreover,  road conditions get a lot better out in the countryside, so driving becomes a lot easier.   If  you enjoy the freedom of the open roads, we definitely recommend a  road trip  in April!

April is the perfect “in-between” month that gives you benefits of both winter and summer.   You’ll experience the smaller crowds and lower prices of winter but the increased daylight hours and activity options of the summer.   Case in point:  there will still be Northern lights but you can also enjoy  excellent whale watching tours, bicyling, and other summer-like activities.  Visiting Iceland in April is a trip you will never forget!

Weather in April in Iceland

The average temperature in April in Iceland is somewhere around 1°C to 7°C (about 34°-45° Fahrenheit),  which makes April the first month of the year above the freezing mark. The weather in Iceland is ever-changing.  That’s true for any month really, but especially for April.  We can easily experience sun, rain, snow and complete calm all in the same hour!

During early April we might have an occasional snowfall, but the warmer temperature means it doesn’t  stay very long.

Daylight in April in Iceland

The month of April brings about 13-16 hours of daylight with a noticeable change between each day. This is the month Icelanders say goodbye to the dark winters and hello to the bright summer months ahead.

Northern lights in April in Iceland

One of the great perks of traveling to Iceland in April is that the Northern Lights are STILL active. The main difference lies in the fact that now the daylight is taking over,  so you will need to go out at a later time to see the show. The reason?  We need a dark background sky to make them really shine and sparkle!

Still, you must keep in mind that the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, and they are not always present. Rain and clouds can also be in the way and make the sky less open for you to see them.  Nonetheless, if they are out and the sky is clear enough they are worth the wait!

If you book a Northern lights Tour you are taken to the best spot to see them, carefully picked by Northern Lights experts.  If the weather is bad you will most often be offered to reschedule or to get a refund.    Some tours also combine northern lights with another activity like hot spring bathing or glacier hiking, so even if you don’t see the lights you’ll still have a fun experience.

What to pack for April in Iceland

We really can’t stress this point enough. Dressing right for Iceland means d ressing in layers . The layer closest to you should be wool or thermals. Next, you should put on fleece, a sweater or  PrimaLoft ®,    and the third layer is for wind and rain proofing. If the weather surprises you with some sun you can always just take off layers.  It has been proven easier to take off layers you do have than to put on  layers you don’t!

Your Iceland in April Packing List should look a little something like this:

• Base Layer: Wool Underwear/Thermals
• Thick Socks (more pairs than for your usual trip)
• Mid Layer: Sweater, F leece or  Thermal Insulation Garment 
• Hiking Boots
• Water/Windproof Jacket
• Bathing Suit
• Lip Balm (you will know why when you land)

What to do in April in Iceland

Rent a Bike in Reykjavik

Enjoy the daylight April brings and roam around on a bike (when weather allows). This will give you an opportunity to cover much more ground and see Iceland’s colorful capital from a whole new angle. Some of our most loved spots include Grotta Lighthouse, Oskjuhlid, Grandi, Solfarid and Perlan .

Visit a Hot Spring

Late April might just be warm enough to visit some of the more remote ones.   If you aren’t up for some possible cold bathing action the Blue Lagoon , the Secret Lagoon,  Krauma, the GeoSea baths, Myvatn Nature baths and other official baths might be more your thing.  

Do the Ring Road

The roads have usually been cleared by April and taking a road trip is just the right way to celebrate Iceland’s ever-changing landscapes.

The Ring Road around Iceland is the most country’s most famous road trip.   It will give you views and memories for a lifetime. The landscapes will surprise you at every turn.  The beauty in Icelandic nature truly leaves no one untouched. If you don’t have time to do the full Ring Road,  Iceland Travel also offers multiple options for shorter road trips, both with a guided tour group and also on our  itinerary based self-drive tours .

Events and Festivals in April in Iceland

Eve FanFest on 12th to 14th April brings together thousands of fans from all over the world who come to celebrate their love for the EVE online games.  Participants meet fellow gamers, learn about new innovations and enjoy fun activities around Reykjavik .

Reykjavík Children’s Culture Festival begins at the 17th of April and is ongoing until the 22nd. Art&crafts, workshops, and performances all linked together through the common theme of youth are hosted around the city of Reykjavík.  It’s great fun, especially for families with young children. Check out the nearest library or Facebook for more intel.

First Day of Summer  (always the last Thursday in April)  might seem to be an event celebrated a bit too early,  but Icelanders will simply not change it. Street parades are held all around the country with Scouts and other organizations marching together under the Icelandic flag. You will see Icelanders sporting summer dresses and light colored outfits in praise of the day. Children get special summer-day gifts from their parents, usually things to enjoy outside.   Bubbles and music will be often be  floating around in the air.  This year the First Day of Summer is on the 25th of April.  

Aldrei Fór Ég Suður is a music festival held in Isafjordur in the Westfjords over the Easter weekend. Almost every big music act in Iceland has played at the festival,  and it just keeps getting more and more popular.   This festival is a real local event to connect with  Icelanders !

AK Extreme is a four-day snowboarding and music festival held in Akureyri in North Iceland . It brings together some of the best snowboarders in Iceland and the top acts in the music scene. Loads of fun!

Driving around Iceland in April

We mentioned earlier in this article that road trips are fabulous ways to explore Iceland in April.  The most commonly driven roads, like the ones you find in cities, towns or the Ring Road 1 will be open for driving and cleared of any snow,  but, if you are looking to get further into the highlands those F-Roads (or  interior mountain roads)  might still be closed.   Make sure to check the road conditions before heading out.

Since April has ever-changing weather,  a 4-wheel drive car will come in handy if you are driving far out from the city.

Ideal tours to do in April in Iceland

Whale Watching Tours

Horse Riding Tours

Snowmobiling Tours

Golden Circle Tours

Hot Spring Tours

Glacier Hiking Tours

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Iceland in April: An Ultimate Guide

The last wave of the winter, April is the month in which Iceland starts to see the first signs of spring. The weather has taken the turn from frosty cold to pleasant and slightly warmer and the breeding season is upon Iceland. April is the ideal combination of both summer and winter and will give you a fair taste of all the beauty that Iceland is. The country is filled with gorgeous spring blossoms and the small animal offspring, roads are easier to access and open in April so taking drive in the countryside is highly recommended whilst you enjoy the fabulous festivals. April attracts a comparatively larger crowd than other months of winter but it is still scarce when compared to the summer tourists. So, there is a fair chance for you to enjoy the mixed elements of summer and winter without having to encounter a long line of visitors ahead.

• Read about Iceland in each month of the year
• Best Season to visit Iceland
• Top Winter Activities in Iceland
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• Hiking in Iceland
• Iceland Packing Lists
• Solo Travels in Iceland
• Rent a car in Iceland
• Discover  hidden gems in Iceland.
• Self Driving in Iceland.

Best Self Drive Activities in Iceland in April

• Katla Ice Cave
• Snorkel Silfra
• Sólheimajökull Glacier Hike
• Snowmobile on Langjökull glacier
• Víðgelmir lava cave

Tourist Crowd in April

Since April is the off-season in Iceland for tourists, most of the tourist spots are free of the crowd. If you are not a fan of crowded places and events, visiting Iceland in April should check all the boxes on your list. The place is filled with tranquility and the wild is wide open to explore.

Pros and Cons of Visiting Iceland in April

The lesser crowd in April wounds up as one of the biggest pros of visiting Iceland in April. Most of the destinations are open to tourists. You can probably see everything from northern lights to spring special attractions like puffins and whales . There are no such cons of visiting Iceland in April as you will experience most of the winter special sights, enjoy the first day of the summer festival and get the best of the spring season. The only shortcoming will be the lack of temperature below the freezing points.

One of the reasons April is one of the best months to visit Iceland is because you get to experience the starting of summer and the top picks from the winter season as well. While the days are longer now in April, Northern Lights are still visible at night time. But to catch them, you will have to leave for the tour in the later hours of the night since even though Northern Lights or Aurora Borealis are a natural phenomenon, they are not visible all the time. The clouds can be in the way or the long hours of the day can present you with a bit of a problem for early sleepers. But the beauty of the dancing colorful lights makes it worth losing a bit of sleep for one night. You have an option to rent a vehicle like jeeps and drive to the countryside to enjoy the view. Although if you prefer to be a bit more comfortable, there are several northern light tours which are led by light experts and are carefully planned as per aurora forecast so that you can enjoy the lights properly. If you want to enjoy some company, you can take a bus tour to the best Northern Light sites.

Ice and Lava cave Tours

Iceland, the land of ice and fire, a phrase that comes to life when you lay your eyes upon the magnificent ice caves and the blazing colorful lava caves. The crystalline ice caves feature beautiful ice sculptures made by the dripping water which freezes at times due to extremely cold temperatures. Although April brings in the melting time most of the ice caves there are few places where you can still catch a glimpse of this special attraction, for example, Katla Ice Cave . After you have a bountiful of snow-white ice caves, make your way towards the red and brown lava caves . Most caves have beautiful openings that bring in the natural light in the caves making the spectrum even beautiful. Raufarhólshellir , Vatnshellir cave, or Víðgelmir cave are some of the best options you can weigh in to choose the ideal tour.

• Ice Cave Tours in Iceland
• Iceland Travel Guide to the Ice Caves
• Lava Cave tours in Iceland
• Best Lava Caves in Iceland

Whale Watching

Since whales are visible in Iceland, April brings the accessibility to get the colder part of Iceland and a chance to see the rarely visible mammals in the country. The best way to enjoy the whale watching season is to book a guided boat tour . Options for the vessels to travel include traditional oak boats of Iceland or RIB speed boats. You can choose the tour you want to take depending upon the vessel of choice and the time duration which can range anywhere between a few hours and a few days. There are more than 20 species of whales and dolphins present in Iceland at this time around so you are sure to spot a few at least. The most commonly seen whales in the north are mink whales, humpback whales, and harbor porpoises.

• Whale Watching Tours in Iceland
• Travel Guide to Whale Watching in Iceland

It’s Puffin Season

April brings the start of the driving season in Iceland when most roads are free of snow and daylight hours last longer than night time. It would be a shame to miss out on the 300 km long tourist route in southwestern Iceland known as the Golden Circle . It contains 3 primary stops which are coincidently some of the most beautiful sights to visit in the country. Þingvellir National Park , Gullfoss waterfall , and Geysir geothermal area in Haukadalur will be the three places you will be making a stop at in your drive around the golden circle. If you are a certified driver then you can hire a four-wheeler vehicle and drive off with your companions yourself or you can book a golden circle tour. Although, if you choose to enjoy the route solely with your companions then make sure that you are equipped with all route-related and site-related information.

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Do Not Miss Out on Glaciers

Glacier hiking is one of the biggest attractions in Iceland. It combines the thrill of conquering some very difficult geographical formations with the calming sensation of laying eyes upon one of the most gorgeous landscapes on the planet. Glacier hiking is open in Iceland all year round. While in the spring season in Iceland, still almost 10% of the country is covered with ice so glacier hiking tours are open for booking.  Sóheimajökull glacier , Vatnajokull glacier , along with Skaftafell Nature Reserve on the south coast of the country has an ample amount of options for you to choose for the hiking.

• Glacier Hiking Tours in Iceland
• Travel Guide to Glacier Hiking in Iceland

Go for A Drive

The melted ice off the roads of Iceland invites you for some long-stretched drives. The ring road is open and easily accessible in April meaning that you can drive yourself up to most of the sights and tourist spots. Be it Puffin watching, the golden circle tour, or reaching to the whale watching spots, drives are available for most of the locations that fall along the main ring road of the country. Since there is still a chance that it can snow, it is advised to hire a four-wheeler for the road.

• Self Driving in Iceland
• Winter Self Driving in Iceland

Best Day Tours to Take in Iceland in April

• South Coast & Northern Lights
• Snæfellsnes Peninsula
• Golden Circle & Snowmobile
• Glacier Lagoon Sightseeing
• Golden Circle & Blue Lagoon
• South Coast & Glacier Hike

Iceland Festivals in April

Aldrei fór ég suður.

This is one of the biggest music festivals of Iceland and was founded by the musician Mugison in the year 2003 when Mugison and his father suddenly decided to host a killer fest for the music lovers in their hometown Ísafjörður. It is held in Westfjords and almost two to three thousand people show up for the festival every year. Aldrei Fór Ég Suður or ‘I Never Went South’ is open and free for everyone who loves music regardless of their financial status. All the performers play free of cost at the festival. The Aldrei Fór Ég Suður brings together all the local musicians of Iceland along with brass bands, rappers, rock metal bands, and accordion players. The fact that performers present their music free of cost and everyone is invited to join, gave this festival the name ‘The People’s Rockfest’.

AK Extreme is the most extravagant snowboarding and music festival. Athletes from all over the world come to Iceland and take part in friendly competitions. One of the most noted events among the ones held in the festival is the Burn Jib sessions using handrails, benches, stairs, and other artificial obstacles while riding. Most events are held at Hlíðarfjall mountain in Akureyri. You can find several of them happening in local venues of the town while the bigger attractions like Burn Jib take place at the specially built snow park. AK Extreme is one of the most popular festivals in Iceland. You should not miss the chance to attend it if you visit north Iceland in April.

Eve Online Fanfest

Eve Online Fest brings players and game developers to come together in the city of Reykjavík in the celebration of EVE Online, a sci-fi multiplayer online role-playing game set way ahead in the future. The game was developed by an Icelandic company CCP Games. The celebrations are held in Harpa Concert Hall. The fanfest is mind-blowing. It ends with an epic party at the Top of the World. The CCP in-house band plays in the party joined by some famous music artists like DJ Kristian Nairn (popularly known as Hodor from Game of Thrones), and Skálmöld.

Children’s Cultural Festival

Organized to introduce different new kinds of arts, the Children’s Cultural Festival emphasizes the focus on kids being an artist. Most of the events are held in institutions like schools, libraries, and museums – the places it is the easiest for the kids to access the workshops and the exhibitions. Children get a chance to learn many fun things like hula-hooping and kite flying. The festival is concluded with a children’s dance and a little bit of banter. You are sure to get free admission to the festival if you are accompanied by a child.

Pack for the Journey: All the Essentials that you will need

Iceland is one of the most beautiful places on the planet. It can sure be tricky to prepare yourself for everything that it is probable to throw at you. The weather can be unpredictable and take turns for the worst at times so make sure you pack all the needed essentials before you set out for the journey. Here is a list for you to check:

Essential Outerwear

• Warm waterproof jackets for hiking
• Waterproof and windproof pants
• Insulated jackets
• Woolen hats/protective headgear
• Scarves to protect the neck from crisp winds
• Heavy Gloves for hiking

Extra Inner Layers

• Thermal innerwear
• Fleece or woolen sweaters for casual day/night outs
• Cotton t-shirts/shirts
• Leggings/casual pants/jeans for events and parties
• Swimsuit – to take a dip in hot springs
• Hiking Boots
• Casual Shoes/Sandals/Flip Flops for casual wear and comfort

Additional Important Picks

• Soap, bath towels, shampoo, face washes, and other toiletries
• Gadgets like phones, tablets, chargers, and travel adapters
• Reusable bottles and thermos
• Cameras and camera gear for photography
• Essentials like flashlights and batteries
• Rain covers (for bags)
• Prescribed medicines and over the counter drugs
• Water bottle

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ICELAND IN APRIL 2024

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

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

- What to expect when visiting Iceland in April - Average weather and temperature in April - 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 April!

Let's dive in!

Don't miss: Best Day Tours from Reykjavik in April

Iceland in April quick facts:

April is the time of year when the white coat of winter begins to loosen its grip on the country, which reveals a beautiful green dress that was hiding underneath all winter long.

• Average temperature: 32-41 Fahrenheit (more details at the bottom of this blog post)
• Sunrise 06:00am / Sunset 9:00pm
• Brighter days & better weather: April is when our days start to really increase in length with a later sunset and the weather starts to get warmer.
• Good time for Northern Lights?: Yes! (Especially early-mid April. More details below)
• Best things to do: View our local recommendations of activities below!

Hey! Before you start reading the awesome blog!

Did you know Wake Up Reykjavík is also on YouTube!? And there we made a video all about Iceland in April! We have tons of great videos all about Iceland on our page , so consider subscribing to us! See our video about Iceland in April here!

Now on to the Blog!

IS IT POSSIBLE TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS IN ICELAND IN APRIL?

I’m happy to tell you: YES! - Well... sort of.

Here is the thing .. In order to see the northern lights, you’ll need 3 factors:

• High northern lights activity
• Clear skies
• Complete darkness (no daylight)

You can experience the three factors almost all year round (the only exception being the pitch-black darkness which is not possible during summer). Here in Iceland, the sun will set later and later during the evening as we draw closer to summer solstice (24 hours of daylight), on June 21.

By the end of April, the sun will set around 22:00. Which is why most northern lights tour operator stop hosting tours on the 15th of April.

But I’ve got good news for you!

Even though April has a late sunset (especially towards the end of the month), it has still been the month that I’ve personally seen the most amount of vibrant northern lights in the past years! I don’t really know why that is – but that’s really good news for you if you’re here during April!

HOW TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS IN APRIL

If you’re eager to see the magical lights. Then my best recommendation to you is to book a tour (if you’ll be visiting anytime between April 1-15)

This option is great since these tours have a weather professional that monitors the weather forecast and northern lights activity like crazy – and will take you to the exact spots that have the highest possible chance of seeing the lights.

Exploring the northern lights is one of my favourite things to do here in Iceland and I’ve been so fortunate to have been able to try out a variety of different tour versions of the northern lights (via boat, bus, super jeep truck etc.)

Out of all the tours that I’ve been able to try out, there was one that really stood out, which is why I recommend it to all my friends and guests coming to Iceland.

It's a small group experience (which I really enjoyed, since big groups tend to give activities a touristy feel). The guides were great, we had wifi on the mini bus, it's inexpensive compared to other northern lights tour.

... and lastly and most importantly, they took us to a brilliant spot outside the city with little to no cloud coverage to see amazing northern lights!

If you’re interested in joining a northern lights tour then I’ve made a special collaboration with the tour operator to be able to offer my readers the tour at the lowest possible price.

You’ll find all the info and be able to secure your spot right through this link here .

Have fun and enjoy the magical lights!

WHAT TO WEAR IN ICELAND IN APRIL?

April is a month of spring so be prepared for some chilly atmosphere. April is not a windy month but it could be quite a wet one so bring your raincoat! A nice warm jacket is definitely a must-pack item along with hat and gloves!

I always recommend people to bring layers of clothing as the weather here is quite schizophrenic, especially during winters, spring, and autumn.

Iceland in April packing list:

• Base Layers – A few pars of underwear, socks & t-shirts
• Warm sweater – Fleece or wool. This can work great as a layer underneath a warm jacket or parka if the weather gets cold. And on the other hand, if the weather god’s bless us with a warm day – you would just simply leave your parka/jacket at home and enjoy your day, rocking your awesome sweater :)
• Pants – Jeans do work fine. But if you’re planning on doing an outdoor activity ( Glacier hiking & ice climbing or whale watching for example) then it can be a smart move to bring a par of lightweight outdoor pants.
• Weatherproof jacket or parka – If you end up in rainy or windy weather, then this can be a solid addition to your outfit here in Iceland.

And then, of course, bring your bathing suit as Iceland is filled with hot springs, swimming pools and natural wonders worth exploring!

Nothing beats a nice warm geothermal bath on a chilly spring morning! If you’re considering embarking on a natural hot spring adventure – then my simple suggestions is to DO IT. You won’t regret it. And if you do, then check out our Natural Hot Spring blog which we’ve filled with our all time favourite hot springs in Iceland. Enjoy – and have FUN!

THE ABSOLUTE BEST TOURS AND ACTIVITIES AVAILABLE IN ICELAND

There are a lot of activities to choose from when visiting Iceland.

But there are a few must-do that I recommend to all my non-Icelandic friends and travellers on their way to Iceland!

1. THE REYKJAVIK FOOD WALK

This is the single best thing to do in Reykjavik (in both my opinion and 4000+ other travellers on Trip Advisor.)

The delicious  Reykjavik Food Tour  is a 3 hour walking tour through Reykjavik with a local. You’ll learn useful tips and fun stories about the city while visiting the best local restaurants and hidden gems to enjoy some of the very best Icelandic food available.

You will taste one of the very best home made Icelandic ice creams I have ever tasted in my life, get home made lamb soup, our typical fish, the famous Icelandic hot dog and more!

I've said it before, and I'll say it again: I think the Reykjavik Food tour is one of the single best ways to explore and get to know Reykjavik first hand. It's just a great way to get to know our city, our culture and cuisine, through a fun local guide!

Find the Reykjavik Food tour here.

2. WHALE WATCHING SEASON IN ICELAND!

Hurray, the whales are here!

There are quite a few reason why I really enjoy whale watching in Iceland

Firstly I will say that you can see whales all year round in Iceland – but the PEAK SEASON for highest chance of seeing the majestic whales starts in April!

It's also a big plus that most tours in Iceland take place outside the city (where you’ll need to be picked up from downtown Reykjavik and driven to your tour destination) but whale watching tour departs from the old harbour in central Reykjavik. In walking distance from most hotels in central Reykjavik.

Whale watching is a popular, cheap and a fun activity to do in Iceland. Seeing those majestic beasts in all their glory is a magnificent experience which I can’t recommend highly enough.

Yes, its 100% cruelty-free safe and definitely worth your while. It’s not every day that you can be up close to these gentle giants in their natural environment. So if you’re travelling to Iceland, make sure to get on one of them boats!

3. VISIT THE PUFFINS!

Fun fact of the day:

Iceland is home to one of the world’s largest colonies of puffins. Over half of the world’s population of the Atlantic Puffin breeds in Iceland. The total population of puffins in Iceland is estimated to be between 8 and 10 million birds.  HOLY PUFFIN THAT’S A LOT OF BIRDS!

‘Puffin Season’ is from early April to September. These little guys spend most of their time on the sea as they are big time ocean creatures. A big reason for this is their fantastic swimming abilities and can stroke their wings underwater down to 60 meters! … And once a year they come to land to breed.

So, if you ever want to see this colourful creature sometime in your life then visit Iceland sometime between April and September – and hop on a rib safari puffin tour!

4. GLACIER SNOWMOBILE TOUR!

An insanely fun and unique way of exploring the Icelandic glaciers!

It’s crazy that most people think snowmobiling in Iceland is only possible during the winter. It’s glaciers, they are cold all year round and the chances are just that much better of decent weather and beautiful visibility during April!

This snowmobiling tours are available with a super convenient pickup and drop off from almost every hotel in downtown Reykjavik.

P.S. Bring your GoPro if you have one! Most of the helmets have mounts where you can attach your GoPro to capture some fun footage to show your friends back home. (It’s a great way to make friends and family members jealous of your super cool trip to Iceland.) Just kidding, but really – bring a camera if you have one!

Find our best Snowmobile tour here.

5. EXPLORE THE WONDERS OF THE SOUTH COAST

I cannot say too many great things about this wonderful tour.

It’s in my opinion – one of the best ‘see it all / do it all’ tour if you want to explore as much as possible in on day.

You’ll visit my two favourite waterfalls in Iceland (Seljalandsfoss & Skógafoss). Not only that, but you’ll also explore the absolutely stunning black sand beach – it’s really something else!

You can check out and secure your spots on my most recommend south coast tour here.

WHAT IS THE WEATHER LIKE IN ICELAND IN APRIL?

The average temperature in Iceland in April is between 32 to 41 fahrenheit. That is significantly better, not just than January and February, but March too.

However, even though it's not like summer yet, one of the things that I love most about April in Iceland is that day and night finally return back to normal. That means that the sun rises around 6:00am and sunset is on average around 9:00pm (a huge step up from the 3 hours of daylight we have in December).

After months of intense darkness, this is PURE HEAVEN!

APRIL SPECIAL DATES IN ICELAND

There is a lot of fun going on here in Iceland during April.

Which is why, again, I recommend all travellers to pick it as their month of choice for visiting. Here below, you’ll find the main special dates with a little practical info. You won’t have to worry too much about opening hours as our Easter won’t affect them too much.

But you can check out the page of Visit Reykjavik where they’ve listed up opening hours here in the city.

APRIL FOOLS IN ICELAND | 1st of April

Icelanders are pranksters, we truly appreciate a good laugh! So if there is any nation that LOVES April fools, it’s Iceland! Stay on your toes if you are ever in Iceland on this day as chances are that we will pull a prank on you! Also, if you get a glimpse of one of the Icelandic newspapers (‘Fréttablaðið’ or ‘Morgunblaðið’.) You’ll notice that the front page will usually have a large bizarre story that both makes no sense at all and is a complete lie.

My favourite one was probably when the government run Channel 1 or RÚV (Ríkisútvarpið, which means the state radio) said that they were giving or selling iconic tv props that every Icelander recognised. Sooo many people showed up at their HQ only to be told that they were gullible enough to fall for this April Fool's prank!

THE ‘FIRST DAY OF SUMMER’ | April 25

Yes, yes & YES! The 25st of April is when we can start celebrating SUMMER in Iceland! What a great feeling! It's just like Spain...well not really. Or not at all. But from here, the world only spins in pure bliss with over 15 hours of sunlight. The whole vibe of the island lifts and our bodies start feeling fresh again from all that vitamin D!

Local Tips for a Smoother Trip

Dress in Layers:

The key to comfort in Iceland’s unpredictable weather is layering. Waterproof and windproof outer layers are essential, as well as good hiking boots for those adventurous treks.

Embrace Icelandic Cuisine:

Don’t leave without trying local delicacies like fermented shark (hákarl), lamb stew, and the famous Icelandic hot dog. Visiting local eateries is a great way to experience the culture.

Respect Nature:

Iceland’s landscapes are fragile. Stick to marked paths, don’t disturb wildlife, and always follow local guidelines to ensure these natural wonders remain pristine for generations to come.

Use the Hot Pots:

Iceland is dotted with geothermal hot springs, or "hot pots," ranging from the well-known Blue Lagoon to hidden gems only locals know about - to the swimming pools that you can find around Reykjavik. They’re perfect for relaxing after a day of exploration. If this is something that you’re interested in, we have a separate video that goes over 11 hot springs here in iceland.

Learn a Few Icelandic Phrases:

While most Icelanders speak excellent English, learning a few phrases in Icelandic can be a fun way to connect with locals. Simple greetings or thank-yous can go a long way.

TO WRAP IT UP!

Exploring Iceland in April offers the unique advantage of experiencing both winter's tail end and the onset of spring. With careful planning and an adventurous spirit, you’re in for an experience that combines the best of Iceland’s natural beauty, cultural richness, and fewer crowds. Whether basking in the extended daylight, navigating the diverse weather, or diving into the local culture.

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Visiting Iceland in April: Everything you need to know

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Iceland is a land of extremes. It’s a country of fire and ice, where glaciers, geysers, and hot springs abound. And it’s a place where you can witness some of the most incredible natural phenomena on earth. If you’re wondering when is the best time to visit the country, then our complete guide to visiting Iceland in April will be helpful!

Continue reading to find all the practical information from spring packing, driving, and road conditions, to tours, special events, festivals, and budget – everything covered and answered in this post.

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

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

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

The beauty of visiting Iceland in spring or fall is the ability to experience a variety of weather conditions and seasonal activities – imagine chasing northern lights, ice cave tours, and longer hours for spending time outdoors and photography! 

April in Iceland is considered a transition month and the spring season. This is when the snow has melted in cities and main towns, roads are clear, and temperatures are slowly getting warmer. 

But summers have not knocked at the door yet. 

And summers are a busy period, particularly from July to August – prices are sky-high, accommodation and car rentals are expensive and for the most part, you can’t enjoy winter-cold related activities.

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 April – Experience Spring in Iceland 

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

During this time, you can expect major cities/towns to be filled with greenery – flowers are slowly blooming and gardens are getting back to life. 

As far as natural landscapes go, they are open to visitors. You will find receding snow on most hiking and viewing platforms. 

Attractions like black sand beaches and coastal areas will still be windy, and slightly cold. 

Near waterfalls, you can also expect it to be chilly and you must wear waterproof clothing to keep yourself dry and warm! 

Here is a photo from Reykjavik. Lots of greenery in and around the church making it gorgeous! 

This photo from the Arctic botanical garden from Akureyri shows the early signs of spring. 

You won’t see flowers in full bloom all across the country, but there will be a myriad of colors waiting to welcome you – from pretty yellows, and nude browns to spots of snow whites here and there! 

Iceland April Weather and Temperatures

• Average Temperature (Low) 3 degrees Celsius (39 F) 
• Average Temperature (High) 7 degrees Celsius (44.6 F)
• Rain in Iceland – Rain is possible in Iceland in April – around 14 to 15 days but it is not a heavy downpour – just drizzle (with some snow)
• Iceland April northern lights possibility – Chasing northern lights in Iceland are possible in the early weeks of April

Reasons to visit Iceland in April

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

• April is an offseason in Iceland

Better deals on flights, hotels, and travel packages to Iceland

• Almost most of the tours in Iceland in April are still operating
• Experience the best of early summer and late winter conditions 

Festivals in Iceland in April

April is off-season in iceland.

April isn’t the busiest month in Iceland. In fact, travelers are waiting for the summer months to kick in and that’s when they plan to venture to Iceland. But……hotels and car rentals will be pricey if you don’t book early in the summer! 

In contrast, springtime will be a breeze! 

During my trip, it was super easy to find accommodation and I scored 4-star hotels for a low mid-budget range (around $95 to $110 USD per night).

In Reykjavik, I was also offered an upgraded suite for free – because it wasn’t busy! Here is the hotel I stayed in – Center Hotels Plaza.

Off-season doesn’t mean low customer service and no one to find for assistance. It is actually the opposite. 

Because there are no long line-ups, people/servers/hosts take extra time to connect with you – strike up a conversation, help you out when you’re on your trip, and more!

I was traveling alone in Iceland in the spring months, and everywhere I went – cafes, on tours, the hotel staff to guides, everyone was attentive and nice! 

Take advantage of the season before the madness of the summer season kicks in. 

Continuing with off-season benefits, know that hotels will be reasonably priced – much cheaper than the summer or winter months. 

You can find great accommodations in Iceland in April generally. Get your hotel/ accommodation deals right here.

If you prefer Airbnbs, here is a list of the best Airbnbs in Iceland

But the list doesn’t stop here. Flights are also comparatively cheaper. When flying from the USA, Canada, or Europe, you can find stellar deals to fly to the Keflavik Airport in the spring. 

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. 

Iceland Tours in April

Almost all of the guided tours in Iceland are still in running in April. Classic day tours like the Golden Circle and South Iceland tours were operating as normal when we were in Iceland.

We saw rainbows over the waterfalls, walked over black sand beaches, experienced some light flurries on our way, and also enjoyed some sunshine at the glacier walk. 

Multi-day tours to North Iceland are also possible in April. North Iceland’s most stunning sights, such as Lake Myvatn, and the waterfalls Dettifoss and Godafoss, etc are open to visitors. 

Access to the Snæfellsnes peninsula in West Iceland via road is also possible in April. In fact, my tour guide mentioned that traveling there in early spring or late winter is not advisable due to poor visibility and road conditions. 

Keep in mind that services (washrooms, etc.) in natural sites may still be closed in April and May in Iceland due to the low season. 

Whale watching and northern lights tours are offered in April as well, especially in northern Iceland. 

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

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. In the golden circle route, one can explore the Thingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and the stunning Gullfoss waterfalls. Click to view this tour
• South Coast Tour: Another popular excursion is the full-day South Coast tour which includes picturesque waterfalls near Reykjavik such as 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. Book this tour here
• Ice Cave tour options – There is still time to enjoy ice cave tours in April. You can choose from a variety of ice cave tours including a full-day trip starting from Reykjavik – Langjökull Glacier Ice Cave Walking Tour. Or 3-4 hour expeditions to Vatnajökull Glacier or Jökulsárlón
• Whale watching tours : Whale and puffin watching tours are open in Iceland in April. They can be booked as half-day/3-hour tours from either Reykjavik or Akureyri
• Northern lights tours : You can see the northern lights in Iceland in April (early weeks). In northern Iceland, it is said to be visible at night, even in the month of May.  This tour leaves from Reykjavik and it is open for bookings up to the 15th of April.

Full list of Iceland tours by budget and season here

All the geothermal spas in Iceland are open, from the Blue Lagoon to Sky Lagoon and the Myvatn Nature Baths. 

Do check the hours when planning your trip as they usually have fewer hours as compared to summer months.

Experience the best of early summer and late winter conditions

There is a reason why off-seasons like spring and fall are the best times to explore a destination, and in Iceland, it makes for a better experience. 

Days are longer for activities and photography, but attractions and sites are not crowded with people. And this means cheaper rentals and hotels. 

As the temperatures are slightly cold, you can still chase northern lights, or go on ice-caving tours, winter and glacier hikes, and more! 

Although a slow tourist season, Iceland has a cool line–up of festivals in April. Here is what you can expect

• Reykjavík Blues Festival – This is a Blues Festival that takes place in Reykjavik. You can sway to the music of artists from Iceland, Europe, and North America.
• Music concerts show at Harpa Concert Hall – In April, you can check out music fests and concerts all month long at the Harpa Concert Hall. 
• First Day of Summer Festival or Sumardaguvinn Fyrsti : The First Day of Summer festival actually kicks off in April, when Icelanders shake off the short and cold winter days to ring in the new season. This festival takes place on the first Thursday after April 18, annually.
• Celebrate Easter

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

Iceland in April will be a fun experience for you. You have all the natural attractions and landmarks open for you to explore at a reduced price tag! 

Here is what you can expect and do in Iceland in April,

Check off the classic attractions – the Golden Circle route and the south coast

Hit the iconic sites such as the Þingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park, Geysir geothermal areas, and the beautiful Gullfoss (waterfalls). 

April is a good time to enjoy the crisp air and go on hikes. These spots won’t be busy so you can surely snap a photo of the Strokkur geyser (that erupts every 30 minutes or so) with ease!

The same goes for the stunning waterfalls near Reykjavik such as Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss – you won’t experience a huge rush of tourists there.

In contrast to the south coast, and the popular Golden Circle, the West coast and northern Iceland tours (Godafoss and Myvatn Lake) will be very quiet in April. 

During my trip, there were just a handful of people in late April, but in the early days of the month, there was hardly anyone around. 

If the site has amenities such as cafes and souvenir shops, they remain open all year round – so you will find the staff on duty for service. 

If they only had washrooms on-site, they may be closed until late May/June or the summer months. 

Enjoy Iceland Ring Road trip highlights

Although I enjoyed day tours in April (yes they were operating) but you can easily embark on your own little self-drive Iceland excursion. 

All of my tours were small group tours (1-5 people) and sightseeing was a breeze. I was lucky to find a spot by the driver’s seat to enjoy a ‘road trip’ and learn more about Iceland’s unique landscapes and traditions! 

Roads were in good condition across the country in April, and the Ring Road had fewer vehicles. So driving will not be an issue. 

Having said that, when you detour to smaller towns or natural sites away from the Icelandic Ring Road, you may encounter dirt roads and uneven paths that were not maintained/taken care of after the winter months. 

Go on whale watching tours | Whale watching in Iceland

April kicks off whale watching time in Iceland, and this goes on until September. During this time you can spot several species of Cetacea on the south coast and beyond. 

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. 

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. 

Note: You can hop on a puffin-watching tour from late April to early May months in Iceland. 

Seal watching in Iceland

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

If you wish to see seals, April is also a good time, and you don’t have to join a cruise boat for that. 

There are popular natural attractions such as Ytri-Tunga (Snaefellsnes peninsula) and the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon where you can spot seals hanging out and soaking in the sun at the beach. 

When you visit seal-watching areas, be mindful of your surroundings and do not disturb the natural habitat of these cute animals!

Soak in the healing waters of Iceland 

One of the bucket list things to do in Iceland is soaking in the warm mineral waters. You have lots of options to choose from – man-made lagoons to au natural ones in the midst of nature. 

In April you won’t have any difficulty in booking a spot in the popular Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon Spa.

Although they operate on a short schedule, they are open in all swing. You can soak in warm water (full of minerals) while there is a slight drizzle or even white flurries outside. 

Other popular hot pools include the Secret Lagoon, Myvatn Nature Baths , Seljavallalaug, and Husafell Canyon Baths . 

They are all built or located near geothermal bodies, so the water here is warm and filled with essential minerals that are good for your skin. This warm water keeps you toasty even when it is cold or raining outside.

When I was in Iceland, I enjoyed the geothermal waters at various times of the day – mornings (10:00 am), afternoon (02:00 pm), and late evenings (04:00 pm) and it was just magical each time! 

If you are visiting natural hot pools like Seljavallalaug, be mindful of the trail and the pool itself. These are not maintained and you must exercise caution when using them. 

As April is a cross-over month in Iceland, you will get decent daylight to travel and take pictures. 

Go on walking tours in towns, and hikes 

Daylight hours start at 07:30 am (approx) and it is bright and nice until the sun sets at 08:50 pm. This allows you to get great pictures of Iceland’s natural gems.

This also means it is great to go on walking tours or enjoy guided food tours in Reykjavik in the evening. 

The temperature outdoors is pleasant enough to walk outside with a light insulated jacket and a beanie (and this comes from someone who is always cold!). 

The same goes for hikes. Popular hiking trails, garden paths, and viewing areas will all be accessible in April. 

Just like with any hike, ensure you are wearing proper hiking shoes before you hit the trails. 

If you are embarking on hikes with an elevation/steep area ensure you have to carry your trekking poles and go slow. As always follow local guidelines before you go. 

Join ice cave tours in April

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 to join these tours.

Places like the Vatnajökull National Park are 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. 

Vatnajökull glacier is Europe’s largest, and its vast expanse houses a number of smaller glaciers, each with its own system of rivers and tunnels. 

One such glacier is Solheimajökull, which flows down from the mighty volcano Eyjafjallajökull. 

This particular ice cave has been featured in many social media and is known for its dramatic entrance.  

When you join a tour, you will be provided with protective gear. 

Another popular option for cave tours is the Katla Glacier Cave , located in the Myrdalsjökull glacier near the town of Vik. 

This cave offers travelers the opportunity to explore an otherworldly landscape of towering black basalt columns and gleaming white walls of ice. You can book this excursion that combines ice caving and a Super Jeep tour .

Enjoy heli skiing in North Iceland

Enjoy heli-skiing in Tröllaskagi in northern Iceland. 

April is the perfect time with warmer temperatures and still some snow in high altitudes creating ideal conditions for gliding and taking in stunning views of Iceland.

The heli-skiing season typically starts from the end of February to June. With the continual daylight of the Arctic Sun overhead and mild temperatures, you will find favorable snow conditions until the advent of summer in June. 

Now the conditions may vary when you visit from fresh powder to extreme snow, but you are guaranteed to love the gorgeous scenery.

Experience all seasons in a day in Iceland in April in this transition month

April is not cold as compared to other transition months – October. It is mostly dry but still windy. 

One of the benefits of visiting Iceland during a crossover month is to be able to experience all seasons  – there are warm temperatures where you can shed extra layers and enjoy a nice walk or a hike.

And then take in the beauty of snowy landscapes on an ice cave tour, or from a hot pool. 

Plus the possibility of northern lights and seal and whale watching makes it an amazing time to explore Iceland (in April). 

When exploring Reykjavik or Akureyri, there will be moments when you will be cold (mainly due to the wind) with single-digit temperatures. 

But there will be hours in the day when you will be very warm, and will want to take off your layers. 

The weather overall is manageable to enjoy the city on foot, with less crowd on the roads. But you must carry a waterproof jacket and hiking shoes to have a great time!

It is unlikely that you will see snow, and northern lights in the summer months, and winters will be cold with poor visibility on the roads – so plan to visit Iceland in a transition month!

Things to know before your visit to Iceland in April

Before you book that trip, there are a few quick tips for a smooth trip to Iceland in April

Weather in Iceland in April

April is a cross-over and a transition month in Iceland. As for the weather, you can expect the temperature to be as low as 3 degrees Celsius (39 F) and a high temperature of around 7 degrees Celsius (45 F).

With each passing day, the daylight hours will be longer and longer. Sunrises at 07:30 am at the start of the month, which are the early weeks of April. 

As we go further along the way, sunrises after 07:00 am or earlier. 

The photos below were taken between 06:00 am to 06:30 am in Reykjavik (the second half of April). It looks bright and nice but the sun is not completely out yet. 

The complex at Hallgrímskirkja was empty in the morning, and you can expect people walking by from 08:00 am onwards when cafes open up nearby. 

Similarly, the sun sets at 7:45 pm at the start of the month. And as we progress, the days are longer and longer and it is dark only after 09:45 pm or so by the end of April. 

You will need a waterproof jacket and comfortable shoes with you at all times of the month, especially as you will venture into the natural sites where rains, snow, and wind conditions are still possible. 

When I was exploring northern Iceland, it was dark sooner (like 08:00 am) and also cooler as compared to southern Iceland. 

Rain is always a possibility in Iceland in April – usually a short drizzle or a quick pour. But this is not uncommon in Europe as most countries experience this in the spring months. 

Does it snow in Iceland in April?

Iceland’s weather is always changing. In April you will still see landscapes such as glaciers and highlands in snow. 

There is snow and ice in scattered spots across the country. But heavy snowfall is rare. 

During the early April weeks, you might see an occasional snowfall, but it clears up soon due to the warm temperatures. 

Can you ski in Iceland in April?

The ski season in Iceland is from late December to early April. However, the snowfall in February and March determines if at all skiing is possible in April. 

If your MAIN goal is to go skiing in April, I won’t recommend Iceland for that.

Where to go skiing in Iceland? Northern Iceland is home to Hlíðarfjall which has been one of the prime areas for skiing. There are ski slopes and a resort with breathtaking views of the Eyjafjörður, and Icelandic mountains here.

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

Driving on the Ring road in Iceland is an amazing experience. The views from your car seat are mesmerizing and the attractions are accessible. 

And driving in April shouldn’t be an issue for anyone who is not used to Icelandic F roads. Roads are clear of snow or winter residue and the conditions are good. 

The Ring road is a beautiful and unique experience that everyone should try. When driving on Ring road, you will be amazed by the different landscapes. You will see glaciers, volcanoes, waterfalls, hot springs, geysers, and more. 

When venturing to smaller towns and away from the Ring Road you do need to exercise caution as you will be driving on bumpy roads and unmaintained paths – for the most part. 

Iceland is so beautiful and sometimes the best views are just by the roadside – like the image above taken near Akureyri from a car parking lot. 

Car Rental in Iceland 

Although April is not a busy season in Iceland, if you have a specific requirement for your vehicle, we do recommend making a reservation prior to your visit. 

You may also score a discount when booking online. Here are some helpful tips

• Check the weather forecasts (temperature, visibility, sunset, etc.)
• Check road conditions from local news (roadblocks, limited accessibility)
• An all-wheel vehicle (4-wheel drive) is nice, but not a requirement in April
• Get car insurance (CDW – collision damage waiver, gravel, and ash insurance)
• Wear seat belts and ensure there is enough gas and food in your vehicle
• Download offline maps in case you lose cell reception

Campervans or motorhomes can be rented around this time. Campsites operate on a winter schedule even in April, and it is possible that not a lot of sites will be open around this time. 

Take Tours in Iceland in October

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

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

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

If you are a solo traveler you might find that for some tours at least a 2-person booking is needed if that’s the case I recommend reaching out to the operator so that they can help out. 

This often happens in unpopular routes during the offseason. It also happened during my trip to Akureyri, and when I reached the hotel – the lobby staff was able to arrange that for me 🙂

So this can be done easily from the hotel’s tour operator’s desk, especially in the offseason! 

Northern Lights in Iceland (early April)

The chances of sighting northern lights in April are very slim. Akureyri still advertises northern lights tours until May, and this region is your best bet if you are wanting to see the green Aurora Borealis!

When we were planning our trip to Iceland, we wanted to experience the Northern Lights so we visited Iceland in October . 

We were on a short trip for 3 days in Iceland , and were able to check it off our bucket list!

Note : To leverage your time here for Northern Lights, make sure you book the tour on your first day or so. It is weather dependent, so in case you don’t see it the first day, you can at least experience them the next scheduled day. 

What to pack Iceland in April

If you are convinced and ready to book that flight to Iceland in April, let me help you with packing as well! 

Remember Iceland is windy and cool at all times of the year – so windproof (+ waterproof) clothes are a must.

Umbrellas are almost useless here, due to the wind. But pack a poncho or waterproof jacket to stay dry and warm when you visit natural attractions. 

Make sure your daypacks and backpacks are waterproof as well. The same goes for your camera cover. 

Packing list: What to pack for an April 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
• 1-2 thermal wear (top & bottom) – Pack inner thermals when visiting in the early days of April. Towards the end of the month, you won’t need it – unless you are heli-skiing or doing ice walks/ice cave tours. Shop long john/thermals here
• 1 waterproof pant/s – They are handy when skiing or when you are exploring 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 – I love my Timbaland waterproof boots. Check it out here

So that’s a wrap! We hope you found this post helpful in deciding if traveling to Iceland in April is worth it. 

April is indeed one of the best months to explore Iceland – experiencing the best of summer and winter activities, and everything in between.

Plus you are saving money on your trip!

I love visiting Iceland and I hope you get to Iceland soon and enjoy your visit as much as I did.

Other posts from our Iceland Travel Blog and Travel Guide

• Iceland Itinerary – 5 days in Iceland | 8 day Iceland itinerary | 10 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 
• Reyjkavik – Get the list of things that you can do in Reykjavik for free | One day in Reykjavik

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

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

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

Weather in Iceland in April

April marks the transition from winter to spring in Iceland. The weather can be unpredictable, with varying temperatures and frequent changes. The average high temperature is 44 F (6.8 C), and the low temperature is 39 F (3 C).

I always recommend that you pack layers and be prepared for sudden weather shifts, including rain, snow, wind, and occasional sunshine.

Daylight Hours

One of the major advantages of visiting Iceland in April is the lengthening of daylight hours. During the early part of the month, you can enjoy approximately:

April 1 st – 13 hours and 31 minutes

On April 15th there are 15 hours and 03 minutes

April 30th – 16 hours and 43 minutes

Road Conditions & Driving in Iceland

Because April is a transitional month road conditions can vary. While main roads are generally accessible, some secondary roads in remote areas may still be closed or have limited access due to lingering snow and ice.

It’s crucial to stay updated on road conditions and weather forecasts by checking reliable sources like the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration’s website. If you plan on driving, renting a 4×4 vehicle with studded winter tires is recommended for added safety.

It's a Great Time to Explore in a Car or Campervan

Go Car Rental Iceland is a local Icelandic car rental company that has great customer service, a large variety of cars and very competitive prices. Use my code Iceland10 to save 10% off the entire cost of your rental car.

I personally use them for when I go on adventures, and I’m so glad to hear that many of my listeners and subscribers are also having a great experience with them. I mentioned in a previous episode that one of my listeners switched to Go Car Rental Iceland from one of the internationally known rental car companies here and she saved $400! That was for a rental during the summer when prices can sometimes double due to demand.

If you plan to use a campervan, use my code Iceland7 to save 7% and get two free duvets with your GO Campers van rental. Also, I have a great episode coming up soon about how to choose the right camper van for your travels in Iceland, so keep an eye out for that.

What to Wear in Iceland in April

To stay comfortable during your visit in April, it’s essential to dress in layers. Start with a base layer of thermal clothing, followed by a sweater or fleece, and top it off with a waterproof and windproof outer layer. Don’t forget to bring a hat, gloves, and a sturdy pair of waterproof boots for outdoor activities. It’s also wise to have a waterproof backpack to protect your belongings from unexpected showers.

If you want more specific help with what to pack, grab my FREE ultimate packing checklist for Iceland.

Why You Should Visit Iceland in April

April offers a unique blend of winter and spring experiences. Here are a few reasons why it’s an excellent time to visit Iceland:

• Fewer tourists compared to the peak summer season, allowing for a more intimate experience.
• Witness the transition of landscapes from snow-covered winter wonderlands to budding greenery.
• Increased chances of viewing the Northern Lights due to extended darkness during the evenings.
• Opportunity to enjoy activities like glacier hiking, ice caving, and snowmobiling before they become inaccessible during the warmer months.
• Often slightly warmer

Iceland Events in April

• Aldrei Fór Ég Suður – this is a music festival in the Westfjords that takes place over the long Easter weekend.
• Children’s Culture Festival – A lovely festival that’s fun for the whole family.

Top Activities to Do in April

• Glacier Tours – hiking & climbing
• Snowmobile Tours
• Fun Road Trips around the country
• Bathing in Geothermal Pools
• Ice Cave Tours
• Northern Lights
• Explore Reykjavík
• Whale Watching

Learn About the Other Months in Iceland

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

Random Fact of the Episode

The first day of summer in Iceland is in April! Yes, you read that right. I explain in the podcast episode why that is the case.

Icelandic Word of the Episode

Apríl – April in English

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Iceland in April 2024: Things to See & Do

7 minute read

By Camila Contreras-Langlois

12 February 2024

Come spend April in Iceland for an unforgettable vacation! Picture yourself walking along glacier lagoons, visiting remote corners of Iceland, and joining in local celebrations.

April marks a transition from winter to summer, meaning you’ll get to enjoy some of the benefits of both. It’s an excellent time to travel off peak and see the country changing from snowy blankets to blooming flowers.

Below you’ll find the best things to see in Iceland in April, the best activities to try, and spots to visit. We’ve also added a handy weather and packing guide to help you prepare for this trip.

• Browse Iceland winter vacation packages .
• Or look up summer trips to Iceland .

Should you visit Iceland in April?

The one-word answer is: yes! The longer answer is this whole blog where we share with you just what makes April in Iceland so special.

As a quick summary, Iceland is a country that is worth seeing in all its splendor, winter and summer alike. Visit at this time of year and you might get the best of both worlds – all dependent on the weather of course!

But April is a very changeable month, so you might experience it all in one day anyway.

It might still snow at higher altitudes, but flowers start to bring color to the lava fields and mossy landscape. With a good balance of daylight and darkness, it’s a great month to maximize your trip. Go on thrilling adventures during the day and spend your nights chasing the Northern Lights .

As the conditions start to get better after the winter, it’s also a great time to visit Iceland on a road trip. With fewer visitors before the summer vacations, you’ll have more attractions to yourself and there’ll be less traffic on the roads.

And these are just some of the reasons why visiting Iceland in April is a good idea. Keep reading for more.

• Travel to Iceland in March for more of a winter vacation.
• Or visit in May to experience summer in Iceland.

Top things to do in Iceland in April

What can you get up to if you visit in April? Iceland is a jaw-dropping country overflowing with natural gems to explore and offering so many unique activities for you to try.

Here are some of our favorite things:

• Catch sight of icicles or rainbows at waterfalls
• Warm up in a geothermal spa
• See bubbling hot springs and geysers
• Try a new-to-you activity like exploring ice caves or glacier walking
• Admire vast glaciers and bobbing icebergs
• Drive around the Ring Road to see highlights and hidden gems
• See or even go inside a volcano

And much more is available, depending on what interests you most. You could go for fun seaside walks, visit museums in Reykjavík , bathe in natural hot springs, or go snowmobiling in the pristine, glacier snow.

• Check out what kind of Iceland activities and day excursions , like whale watching tours, you could add to your itinerary.
• Blog: 13 Awesome Things to Do in Iceland .

Events in Iceland in April

There are a few cultural experiences you might want to join in during your vacation in Iceland.

Iceland’s cultural life in April revolves around the First Day of Summer (‘sumardagurinn fyrsti’). It takes place on the first Thursday following 18 April. This national day is celebrated around the country and is based on a Viking tradition.

Back in the day, this was the start of the longer days of summer when the calendar looked a bit different. It’s similar to today’s spring equinox. Locals will be off work and you might see parades, people waving flags, and musicians playing in the streets.

• See what other events take place around Iceland throughout the year with our events and festival calendar .

Just to highlight it’s not quite summer yet, the AK Extreme snowboarding festival is also held every April. This one is hosted in North Iceland.

If you enjoy music, then consider including the Westfjords in your April itinerary of Iceland. The music festival I Never Went South is held over Easter weekend in the fjords’ main settlement, Ísafjörður.

Those traveling with kids may want to pop by the Children’s Culture Festival in Reykjavík. It’s a fun way to entertain the little ones. There are usually exhibitions and activities for a range of ages.

Best places to visit in Iceland in April

Where you go during your April visit depends on how much time you have.

In town for a few days? Stay in Reykjavík and take day tours to top locations such as the Golden Circle route . If you have 1 or 2 weeks to spend on our stunning island, then drive the Ring Road on an epic road trip . Or have a private driver-guide take you on an unforgettable tour. The choice is yours!

These are the places we recommend you add to your itinerary in April:

1. Westfjords

Location: North-west peninsula of Iceland

The Westfjords are a must-see for anyone hoping to travel off the beaten path in Iceland. The roads into this region are difficult to manage or completely closed in winter, so April is when the Westfjords are finally accessible for the summer months.

Why visit? Travel here for outstanding, untouched landscapes, miles and miles of dramatic sea cliffs, red sand beaches, and wildlife encounters.

Don’t miss: A visit to the tallest waterfall in the region, Dynjandi, the main town Ísafjörður, and to the Arctic Fox Center to learn about Arctic foxes. You could also drive part (or all!) of the Westfjords Way, a touring route that’ll take you to some of the best spots on the peninsula.

• Blog: Read this ultimate guide to the Westfjords to find out what else to see.

2. East Iceland

Location: East Iceland

East Iceland is often overlooked – being located on the other side of the country from Reykjavík – but it’s worth the detour around the Ring Road. 

Why visit? Travel east and you’ll encounter a variety of backdrops, each more stunning than the last. Admire the largest forest in Iceland, the serene landscape of the eastern fjords, and the vast Vatnajökull National Park.

Don’t miss: Going on a boat tour on the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, eating the local langoustine in Höfn, and spotting the wild roaming reindeer.

3. Borgarfjörður area

Location: West Iceland

This is a great day adventure to add to your itinerary if you’re traveling north from Reykjavík to visit the Snæfellsnes peninsula. It stretches from the Borgarfjörður fjord to Húsafell, the most inland farm settlement in the region.

Why visit? To experience the highlands of Iceland without traveling too far into that region. In fact, the roads into the highlands don’t usually open until late June. So in April it’ll give you a taste of the rugged landscape, with hot springs, craters, and rolling mountains.

Don’t miss: Having a wander around the village of Reykholt, being in awe of the power of the Deildartunguhver hot spring, and seeing the Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls.

• Blog: Read about where to find the best waterfalls in Iceland .

4. Reykjavík and surroundings

Location: South-west Iceland

When you fly to Iceland, you’ll probably stay at least one night in Reykjavík. You could then set off on an adventure around the country. Or base yourself here to explore the capital of Iceland in more depth.

Why visit? For a taste of Iceland if you don’t have time to discover more of the country. Staying in Reykjavík doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the stunning countryside either. From here, day tours can take you to the south coast, to the Snæfellsnes peninsula, around the Golden Circle, and more.

Don’t miss: Checking out a local town or village festival, trying the local food at top restaurants, or going for a dip in geothermal spas such as the Sky Lagoon or Blue Lagoon .

• Explore the stunning south coast with these South Iceland vacation packages .
• Blog: Find out the best Iceland hot springs and pools .

What’s the weather like in Iceland in April?

In April, Iceland celebrates the first day of summer, but that doesn’t mean summer weather is here yet. Visit at this time of year and you can expect a month of transition where flowers start to bloom but snow may still fall. That said the days are brighter and longer than in winter.

Average temperatures are around 5°C (41°F) throughout the country but will vary slightly. You may well find it chillier on windy days, or warmer if you’re out walking on a sunny day. It’s best to also come prepared for some rainy days as average rainfall is around 20 mm in April.  

• Read more about Iceland’s weather and climate in our travel guide.

Does it snow in Iceland in April?

Yes, it may well snow when you’re visiting Iceland on your April vacation. It’s unlikely to stick in the city, but you might find the countryside covered in frost on some days.

Whatever the weather is during your stay, mountain peaks in the distance are still likely to be snow-capped. It’ll give an even more magical vibe to your pics! 

What are the driving conditions like in Iceland in April?

The driving conditions will depend on what kind of weather you encounter during your vacation. April is an especially changeable month, so it’s best to come prepared with winter driving in mind.

Make yourself aware of road regulations and safety precautions before your arrival in Iceland. For example, you should always have your headlights turned on, day and night, summer and winter alike. It’s also better to drive slowly, giving yourself time to react and to avoid black ice.

• Learn more on our Driving in Iceland guide .

We also highly recommend being flexible when visiting Iceland, especially between October and April. At this time of year, you might need to change your plans at a moment’s notice. Always check road and weather conditions before departing each day to know what to expect.

One of the advantages of booking with Iceland Tours is that we make sure you travel with peace of mind. You’ll benefit from in-car Wi-Fi, a detailed itinerary, and access to our 24/7 helpline if you need our support.

And the main advantage of taking on a self-drive tour of Iceland in April is definitely that there’s lighter traffic on the road. You’ll have more of the highlights along the way to yourself as you travel around the Ring Road.

What are the daylight hours like in Iceland in April?

In the spring, the daylight hours increase significantly as we head toward the summer solstice (which marks the longest day of the year). You’ll notice there’s even a big change between the beginning and end of the month. Generally, you can expect an average of 15 hours of daylight.

In early April, the sun rises in Reykjavík around 6:45 a.m. and sets around 8:20 p.m. By the end of the month, the sunrise happens just before 5 a.m. and sunset at almost 10 p.m.

Can I see the Northern Lights in April in Iceland?

Although the Northern Lights season is winding down in April, there are still chances to spot them. This is especially true in the first half of the month.

In order to witness this heavenly show, you need a dark, cloudless sky and the right solar conditions. You’re not really in control of the sun’s particles or the weather, so come when Iceland has longer nights to put all the chances on your side.

Visit Iceland between October and March for the longest nights of the year. The earlier or later in the season you come, the more balance you’ll have in terms of daylight hours.

As the Northern Lights are reliant on nature, we can’t promise you’ll see them during your time in Iceland. But it’s definitely worth putting them on your bucket list!

• Browse Northern Lights tours of Iceland .
• Blog: Best places to see the Northern Lights in Iceland .

What to pack for a trip to Iceland in April?

When packing for a visit to Iceland in spring , it’s always good to remember its ever-changing weather conditions. As April falls at the end of winter, pack layers to keep warm and dry and you’ll be good to go!

Here are some must-have items for your suitcase:

• Insulated and waterproof winter coat
• Wooly or fleece sweaters
• Sturdy, waterproof boots
• Gloves, scarf, and warm hat
• Thermal underwear and thick socks
• Face and lip moisturizers
• Swimwear and towel to visit pools and spas
• Read our Iceland winter packing guide for more useful tips and details.

Planning your trip to Iceland

Let Iceland in April charm you – why not start planning your next getaway now? Pick which spots you want to visit most and the way you want to travel, and you can start finding the ideal itinerary for you.

Browse the selection of packages Iceland Tours offers to get started. You can pick from self-drive itineraries , private travel , multi-day excursions from Reykjavík , or guided group tours . These all have their own benefits, depending on your preferences.

Then, booking online is an easy process and you can even take advantage of our 5% deposit policy. Don’t just dream of Iceland, start your vacation plans now!

• 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 April

Everything you need to know about April in Iceland

• Is April a good time?
• Wildlife in April
• What to wear
• Events & holidays

Related Tours

Related blogs.

April is known as one of the “convenient” months to visit Iceland because the trip here is cheaper, there are fewer crowds, and the weather is getting warmer. If you need more convincing, then continue reading this ultimate guide on what to do in Iceland in April.

April in Iceland offers fantastic opportunities. For the most part, the weather is still quite wintery. Nevertheless, by increasing daylight hours and giving us a few warmer days, nature is springing to life.

Fabulous contrasts can often be experienced. The bud leaves of springtime, snowy mountains, and the Northern Lights can still paint their visions of color above the scenery dusted in beautiful frost and snow.

Little harbor at Dalvik fishing village in Iceland

Is April a good time to visit Iceland?

April is considered to be the last month of the low season , so this time of the year comes with some travel advantages. Cheaper flights and accommodation mean that you get to save up, and fewer crowds allow you to enjoy famous attractions better. Iceland is famous for its repeatedly changing weather forecast, but in April, you can already enjoy longer and sunnier days.

April in Iceland – Fast Facts

• Accommodation is cheaper than in summer or winter: you can save as much as 30-50%.
• In Reykjavík, you get more than 13.5 hours of daylight on April 1st and more than 16.5 hours on the 30th of April. This is fabulous for seeing the sights and traveling around the country. In North Iceland, you get even more hours of daylight.
• Evening sightseeing and photography can be really special.
• On average, there is less ice and snow than in winter, so driving conditions are often better .
• Frost-glistening winter scenes can usually still be seen.
• The major attractions are all open, with the exception of some remote museums.
• With the feeling and smell of spring in the air, swimming outdoors is particularly fabulous.

WEATHER IN ICELAND IN APRIL

April often brings quite a variety of weather, from minus temperatures to days that are quite warm, with sunshine, rain, or snow. With temperatures usually rising and falling quite a lot, snow does not normally lay on the ground for very long, although there are exceptions.

Dressing in layers is the best way to go in Iceland, never more so than in April. We’d also recommend you check out the weather in Iceland before your trip.

The temperature in Iceland in April

Good news for warmth-seeking travelers, April weather is much “friendlier” compared to earlier months. The average low temperature during this time is -1.1° C (30 ° F), and the average high is around 6.8° C (44° F). If you’re not that much into intense heat, this weather should be great for traveling.

Sunrise at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Iceland

Daylight in Iceland in April

In April in Iceland, you'll get considerably more daylight than in winter, even if it's considered to be an off-season. The sunrise on April 1st is usually around 7:00 AM, and sunrise at around 8:00 PM. That's about 13 hours of daylight ! From mid-April, it can increase to more than 16 hours of daylight .

WHAT TO DO IN ICELAND IN APRIL

Now, onto the main question: what fun activities can you do while in Iceland during this month, and what attractions are waiting for you here?

Travel around Iceland

Not sure where to start? One of the greatest ways to get to know Iceland better is by going to its most prominent attractions. Iceland is well known for its Golden Circle , which includes the country's main attractions. And those who are here for longer and wish to see nearly everything that Iceland has to offer, travel its most famous route – Ring Road .

Glacier hike

You might have heard that the first day of summer in Iceland is at the end of April, but that does not, in fact, mean that the temperature will change dramatically. So if you’re dreaming of some winter activities, then it’s a perfect time to try one of the glacier hike tours . Here you’ll be able to see the icy side of the country and enjoy its scenic landscapes.

Whale watching

If you’re an avid nature lover, especially having a soft spot for marine life, then you’ll be happy to hear that April marks the start of whale watching season. A good place for whale watching tours is the city of Dalvik . Many come here specifically for a spectacle of different whales, such as minke or humpback whales.

Northern Lights

April is also a convenient season to be traveling in Iceland because, during this time, it’s still possible to see the Aurora Borealis . The Northern Lights season usually starts from September to April, as during this time, the nights are still dark enough (even though much shorter) to see this natural phenomenon. You’ve probably heard that chasing Northern Lights is only possible during certain conditions, so in this case, it’s best to book a Northern Lights tour .

What to do in Reykjavik in April

Panoramic view from Hallgrímskirkja church in Reykjavik

If you’re worried that there won’t be a lot of fun things to do during April in the capital, then put your worries aside, as the city offers a lot of different activities at this time of year. If you're wondering what to do in Reykjavik in April, here are some ideas:

• Walking the coastal pathways around   Reykjavík will show you the Icelandic nature springing into life. Seltjarnarnes, a fabulous peninsula and suburb on the edge of Reykjavik, should not be missed.
• Look and listen out for the golden plover, known in Iceland as the “ lóa .” When you spot your first lóa, you know spring has come.
• Visit Grasagardur , the Botanical Gardens. Whether you can see nature starting to flower, or the ground is still covered in snow, this place always feels so magical in April.
• On sunny days find a café or bar with a sheltered outdoor seating area. You will be surprised how lovely and warm it feels when you are out of the wind. Enjoy a local artisan beer, a great coffee or a slow meal outdoors. There are many great places, like Messinn , a fabulous fish restaurant offering outdoor or indoor dining.
• Wander between the parades and events on the First Day of Summer , Sumardagurinn fyrsti.
• Hire a bike and explore the many kilometers of designated cycle paths that lead around and out of Reykjavík.
• Enjoy the art at Kjarvalsstadir and get yourself a coffee or lunch. On sunny days the sheltered area outside the café is very pleasant.
• Make the most of the longer daylight to explore in cityscapes and Reykjavík harbor and waterfront in the evening.
• Photograph the magnificent sunsets. Those giant canvases of color will really enhance your shots.

Can you see the Northern Lights in Iceland in April?

Northern Lights tour in Iceland

The   Northern Lights   are seen at night-time. And, as you’ve probably heard, daylight lasts longer in summer in Iceland. So, the best chance to see the Northern Lights in April is early in the month . 

In fact, while some winter months have the benefit of darkness for Northern Lights tours, they’re also colder, snowier and wetter than the spring/summer months. And inclement or overcast weather can put a dampener on a Northern Lights tour (no pun intended).

If you’re curious to know why you can't spot the Northern Lights during summer months, it’s because it needs complete darkness to be seen, and during summer, Icelandic nights are quite short.

Hallgrímskirkja - Lutheran parish church in Reykjavík, Iceland

WILDLIFE IN ICELAND IN APRIL

Iceland is already recognized for its breathtaking nature and its variety of landscapes. But what about its wildlife? It’s as special as it gets, and once you’re here, you get a perfect opportunity to spot some of the cutest and mightiest creatures of Iceland.

Man petting Icelandic horse

There’s a good reason why Iceland is called the capital of puffins. They can be spotted here from early April up until September. So opening the summer season with puffin watching can be an unforgettable experience because of how cute these little birds are. Before going puffin-watch, find everything there is to know about them in this guide on puffins .

Icelandic Puffin on a cliff

Besides puffin watching, another great animal to be on the lookout for during this time is whales. And the best way to spot them is by going on whale watching tours . During your trip to explore Icelandic marine life you get to see humpback and minke whales, porpoises, and dolphins.

In Iceland, the lambing season begins in April and continues into May. The best way to enjoy the lambs, and to collect some cute moments to cherish, is to stay on a sheep farm out in the countryside.

Farmer taking care of a newborn lamb

April is the time when many birds, such as whooper swans, geese, and white wagtails, return to Iceland. One of the places where you can spot them is near Lake Myvatn as this area is considered a protection sight for the birds.

WHAT TO WEAR IN ICELAND IN APRIL

Hiking in Iceland

When preparing for any kind of trip, one of the main questions posed is what to take with you and what to wear. Having in mind how unpredictable Iceland’s temperature is, the April packing list should first include the essentials such as thermal layers, water and windproof outerwear and waterproof hiking boots . 

Visiting Iceland can become a challenge if you’re not prepared right. The average temperature here is around 3°C (37,4°F) during April, so the best tip to keep in mind is to dress in layers. This way, you’ll keep yourself warm and comfortable and be able to easily remove or add more clothes according to the weather conditions and varying temperatures. 

For a more extensive guide on what to grab with you on your trip to the country, check out what to wear in Iceland .

DRIVING IN ICELAND IN APRIL

Gravel road at sunset with a view of Vestrahorn mountain, Iceland

Even though a lot of roads might be still closed in Iceland in April, the main road, Ring Road , is usually kept open. The road to famous sights, such as the Snaefellsnes peninsula , South Coast , or Golden Circle is quite easy to navigate during this season.

However, we advise you to use a four-wheeler for driving in Iceland. Also, don’t forget to check the official website for weather reports ( vedur.is ) and road conditions ( road.is ) . It’s important to assess your driving experience, weather, situation on the road, and other factors before getting into the driver’s position. In April, during the bad weather, the roads can become slippery, storms can cause limited visibility or even lead to closing highways.

So, if you want to be extra safe, try out guided day tours or multi-day tours where all you have to do is sit back and enjoy the scenery!

EVENTS AND HOLIDAYS IN ICELAND IN APRIL

Interested in immersing yourself in Icelandic culture right away? Then one of the best ways to do so is by attending its holiday celebrations and unique events. What are some of them that take place during April?

Excited couple travelling in Iceland

Sumardagurinn Fyrsti, or First Day of Summer

While April might seem more of a spring month, this is when the first day of summer is actually celebrated by Icelanders. When is it? Its exact date differs as the tradition states that the first summer day in Iceland is on the first Thursday after the 18th of April. Why so early? According to Icelandic history, the year was divided into two seasons: summer and winter. So, the second half of April marks the start of the summer. Now it’s recognised as an annual public holiday.

Easter celebrations for Icelanders mean an egg hunt, enjoying chocolate eggs, and having a delicious Sunday roast dinner, during which a lamb is served. If you’re looking for something fun to do during this family-focused celebration, you can follow Icelanders’ example and go skiing .

Children’s Culture Festival

If you’re traveling to Iceland with kids this time of the year, then you shouldn’t miss the Children's Culture Festival that takes place in the second half of April. This free festival is held in various places throughout the capital. Numerous events and exhibitions are created with or for kids. The main goal of this festival is to introduce them to culture.

Harpa concert hall and conference centre in Reykjavík, Iceland

Aldrei fór ég suður, or I Never Went South

Easter time marks another important event that has taken place in Iceland since 2004, this year celebrating 20 years of success. It’s a music festival, “Aldrei fór ég suður,” which translates to “I never went South.” The festival that was created by a musician and his son takes place in the West Fjords and invites various musicians to participate.

If you love sports and music, then there’s no way you’re missing the AK Extreme festival, which combines snowboarding and music. This multiple-day event takes place in Akureyri , providing you with the possibility to explore the capital of North Iceland and have a weekend full of action.

ICELAND IN APRIL FAQ

Is there snow in iceland in april.

While by this time, Icelandic winter is already retreating, the weather during this time is quite unpredictable, so you can see snow in April.

Is April a good time to go to Iceland?

This month is convenient for traveling as the weather is getting better, there are fewer crowds, so the accommodation and transportation tend to be cheaper.

Will I see the Northern Lights in Iceland in April?

If you decide to visit Iceland somewhere around mid April, there’s still a chance you’ll see the Northern Lights. But don’t wait too long as the days are getting longer and sunnier, a setting that is impossible for Northern Lights to appear in.

Can you see ice caves in Iceland in April?

It’s advised to explore ice caves during the cold season – from November to March or the beginning of April. Note that this activity can only be done with a guide who will ensure your safety. For more information, check out the best time to see ice caves in Iceland .

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Iceland in March

Things to know before traveling to iceland in march.

What to expect when visiting Iceland in March? What’s the weather like? Can you still see the Northern Lights? What to see and do in Iceland in March? Find your answers in this guide!

Snæfellsnes Peninsula, South Coast, and Golden Circle 7-day Itinerary

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The Best Road Trips In Iceland

Iceland self-drive trip itinerary ideas with maps.

Taking a road trip through Iceland is nothing short of extraordinary. Every route is filled with incredible nature, and its main highway, the Ring Road, makes driving in Iceland simple. Many Iceland travelers self-drive the country because ...

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How’s the Weather in Iceland in April? Travel Guide with car

Iceland in April sees the start of thawing temperatures and the first glimpses of warm weather – but it’s also your last chance to catch a glimpse of the northern lights until September! Here’s everything you need to know about Iceland’s weather in April and where to go if you rent a car.

What is the weather like in Iceland in April?

In April, Iceland starts to shake off its winter chill, it is a month between Iceland winter and summer, it is also the month where Iceland get its official ‘first day of summer’.

Temperature wise, In Reykjavik, the capital city, you can expect average temperature in iceland in april from high about 42°F (6°C) and lows around 33°F (1°C) . While these temperatures might still sound chilly, they are a welcome relief from the colder winter months.

April brings an average snowfall of just 4 inches and about 2 inches of rain, significantly less than in winter. Moreover, the days get longer, offering up to 15 hours of daylight by the end of the month, which is great for sightseeing. If you’re heading to northern parts like Akureyri, the weather is similar, but do expect some regional differences.

Can you see the northern lights in Iceland in April?

Yes! You can see the northern lights in Iceland in April. In fact, this is your last chance to see them until September or October.

Keep in mind that many northern lights tours cease operations around the middle of the month (April 15th). While a visit in April isn’t your best chance of seeing the aurora borealis dancing overhead, visiting in the first half of the month gives you a better opportunity.

The road conditions of Iceland in April

April still sees plenty of pop-up snow storms, ice, and rain. We never said that the weather was better – just more mild! This can make driving difficult at times, although it won’t be as tricky as in months of heavy snowfall like January and February.

It’s important that those who chose to rent a car are familiar with driving in inclement weather (like snow and ice) if they decide to visit in April. Your visit to Iceland is not the time to learn how to drive in winter conditions. Renting a 4×4 vehicle is the best option for driving around Iceland in April.

Always check road conditions before heading out on your road trip through Iceland’s road official website, road.is.

Driving in Iceland in April

Navigating Iceland’s roads in April requires a bit of preparation and awareness. The weather can change quickly, so it’s essential to be prepared for various conditions.

Make sure your rental car is equipped with necessary safety features like winter tires and always have a plan for inclement weather. Be particularly cautious of icy patches and snow on the roads, especially in shaded areas or over bridges.

Daylight hours increase significantly in April, providing more visibility for driving, but it’s still crucial to keep your headlights on at all times, as per Icelandic law.

Also, be mindful of wind speeds, as strong gusts can be challenging, especially in open areas or when driving larger vehicles. Finally, respect the speed limits and road signs to ensure a safe journey through Iceland’s stunning landscapes.

Is April/early April a Good time to visit Iceland?

Early April is a good time to explore the vibrant life of downtown Reykjavik, as the city transitions from the chilly embrace of winter to the milder, promising days leading to the summer months. This period is not just about witnessing the beauty of thawing landscapes, but also about immersing in the local culture.

Downtown Reykjavik, with its colorful streets, cozy cafes, and lively art scenes, offers a unique backdrop to celebrate the northern lights in Iceland in April.

As you stroll through the city in the evening, you can feel the excitement in the air – locals and visitors alike share stories of their aurora sightings, making every conversation a chance to share in the collective joy.

Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, early April in Reykjavik provides a perfect blend of cultural richness and natural wonder, setting the stage for the delightful summer months ahead.

Celebrating the First Day of Summer in Iceland in April

In Iceland, the arrival of spring and the anticipation of summer are celebrated uniquely and vibrantly, especially after the long, dark winter months. April in Iceland isn’t just about the changing weather; it’s also about embracing traditions and welcoming the warmer days ahead.

The Arrival of Spring in Iceland

While in many parts of the world, spring officially starts on March 20th, in Iceland, it’s marked by the sighting of the first Golden Plover, known locally as ‘Lóa’. This bird, with its golden feathers and melodious call, is a sign that spring has sprung in Iceland. Its arrival is always a noteworthy event and is widely covered by the Icelandic media, typically occurring in late March.

The First Day of Summer – ‘Sumardagurinn fyrsti’

Icelanders have a unique way of heralding the start of summer. The First Day of Summer, or ‘Sumardagurinn fyrsti’, is celebrated on the first Thursday after April 18th.

This day is part of the Old Icelandic calendar, which divides the year into just two seasons: winter and summer. On this day, looking outside, you might not see what’s traditionally considered summer weather. It’s often still windy, rainy, and sometimes snowy, but that doesn’t dampen the festive spirit.

Local fairs and parades are common sights, with scouts often leading the processions, proudly carrying the Icelandic flag. This tradition dates back to the lunar month Harpa of the Old Icelandic calendar and has continued even after the adoption of the Julian calendar in A.D. 1000.

A Day of Optimism and Celebration

There’s an old belief in Iceland that if the night before the First Day of Summer is frosty, then the upcoming summer will be warm and sunny. This belief encapsulates the optimism with which Icelanders greet the changing seasons.

Historically, this day was marked by a mass until the mid-18th century when the practice was briefly banned. However, the celebration’s spirit lived on, eventually being embraced by youth clubs in the early 20th century and evolving into the nationwide festival it is today.

A Time for Giving Summer Presents

The First Day of Summer is also a time for giving gifts, a tradition that predates the concept of Christmas presents in Iceland. In the past, when winters were harsh and isolating for farmers, the arrival of summer symbolized freedom and connection. Back in the day, everyone would receive a gift, often something as simple and precious as bread, due to the scarcity of grain.

Today, the tradition has evolved, with children typically receiving gifts related to summer activities like bikes, balls, and outdoor toys. These gifts are a nod to the past and a celebration of the outdoor adventures that the coming months promise.

Joining the Celebration

If you find yourself in Iceland in mid-April, wrap up warm and join in the celebrations. Whether it’s attending a parade or participating in the gift-giving tradition, experiencing the First Day of Summer in Iceland is a unique way to connect with Icelandic culture and history.

Best Things to do in Iceland in April

April is a wonderful time to visit Iceland! The northern lights are still making an appearance, whales are starting to appear in Icelandic waters again, prices are extremely reasonable, and temperatures aren’t as freezing as the dead of winter. In fact, April might be one of the best months to visit the Land of Fire and Ice! Here are the best things to do in Iceland in April.

Traveling to see the northern lights in iceland in april

April in Iceland presents a unique opportunity to witness one of nature’s most spectacular displays – the northern lights, or aurora borealis . As the days grow longer and the nights shorter, April stands as the final month to view this mesmerizing light show before it takes a hiatus until autumn.

Why April is Special for Northern Lights

The northern lights are a result of solar particles colliding with the Earth’s atmosphere, creating a dance of lights across the sky. During April, the balance between enough darkness and increasing solar activity makes it an ideal time to catch this natural wonder. The skies are often clear, and the weather is more stable than in the deep winter months, providing excellent viewing conditions.

Guided Tours for a good Experience

For the best experience, consider joining a guided northern lights tour. These tours are led by experts who know the best spots and times to witness the auroras. They can take you away from the light pollution of cities to areas where the lights are more vivid and clear.

Self-Drive Adventures

If you prefer a more personal adventure, renting a car and driving to quieter areas can be equally rewarding. Destinations like Thingvellir National Park, or the areas around Vik and Jokulsarlon in the south, are known for their dark skies and stunning backdrops, perfect for aurora viewing. Remember to check the aurora forecast and weather conditions before heading out.

The Magic of Watching from a Hot Spring

Imagine soaking in a naturally heated hot spring, under the starry sky, as the northern lights dance above you. This is possible in several geothermal areas across Iceland. Places like the Secret Lagoon in Fludir or the geothermal hot river in Reykjadalur offer a magical setting to experience the auroras while relaxing in warm, comforting waters.

Photographing the Northern Lights

For photography enthusiasts, capturing the northern lights can be a thrilling challenge. Bring a tripod and use a camera that allows manual settings to adjust for long exposures. Capturing the lights as they swirl above Iceland’s dramatic landscapes can result in once-in-a-lifetime photographs.

2. Whale Watching

April is one of the first months for whale watching in most of Iceland. Both humpback whales and minke whales begin to migrate back into the cool waters off the coast in search of food. Hop on a whale watching tour from Reykjavik, Akureyri, Husavik, or Olafsvik to see these gentle giants in their natural habitat.

3. Road Tripping the Ring Road

April is one of the cheapest months to rent a car in Iceland. This is technically the off-season and visitors who visit during this time of year certainly reap the benefits money-wise. One of the best ways to see Iceland’s plentiful natural beauty is by road tripping the Ring Road , Iceland’s highway that circumnavigates the island in a large loop.

4.Explore the South Coast and Black Sand Beaches

The South Coast of Iceland is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes, including the famous black sand beaches like Reynisfjara near Vik. In April, the milder weather is perfect for exploring these unique beaches, where the striking black sands contrast with the white snow remnants and the powerful Atlantic waves. Be sure to also visit nearby attractions like the Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls, which are often less crowded at this time of year.

5.Visit Hot Springs and Geothermal Pools

April’s cooler temperatures are ideal for relaxing in Iceland’s natural hot springs and geothermal pools. The famous Blue Lagoon is a must-visit, but also consider lesser-known spots like the Secret Lagoon or geothermal pools in the Reykjadalur Valley.

6.Hiking and Outdoor Adventures

As the snow begins to melt, hiking trails become more accessible. April is a great time to explore Iceland’s natural beauty on foot, with trails offering views of mountains, waterfalls, and volcanic landscapes. Just be sure to check trail conditions and weather forecasts before setting out.

Travel Iceland in April

Be warned that April can still bring surprise snow and ice and renting a car during this time isn’t suggested for those who have never driven in winter weather conditions previously.

Visiting Iceland in April is a wonderful time full of northern lights , whale watching, warmer temperatures, and cheap prices.

Book your rental car through Firefly Iceland Car Rentals for the best prices and get started on your adventure through the Land of Fire and Ice!

Best cheap rental car for a April Self-drive trip

Dacia Duster or similar | Manual | 4×4 | 2020-2021 (CFMX)

Group e2 reservations are made by car category only. we cannot guarantee a specific car model. or similar.

• 5 Passengers
• Airconditioning

Suitable for the highland F-roads. Please read Terms & Conditions. You must be 23 years of age to drive this vehicle.

Additional Features

• 4 Wheel Drive
• 116 C0 2  g/km
• Adjustable Steering
• Electronic Stability Control
• Power Steering
• Power Windows
• Remote Locking

VW Tiguan or similar | Automatic | 4×4 | 2020-2021 Model (IFAX)

Group: o reservations are made by car category only. we cannot guarantee a specific car model. or similar, dacia duster or similar |manual| 4×4 (cfmn) -2022-2024 new model, group e2 reservations are made by car category only. we cannot guarantee a specific car model..

Suzuki Vitara or similar|Manual| 4×4 (IFMN) | 2022-2024 New Model

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• Cruise Control

VW Tiguan or similar|Automatic|4×4 (IFAR) | 2022-2024 New Model

• 176 C0 2  g/km

Kia Sorento or similar | Automatic | 4×4 (SFAN) | 2022-2024 New Model

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Iceland In April 2024 | Ultimate Tips, Activities, Tours and MORE!

by Kev Shepherd

Are you planning a trip to Iceland in April? Read here to find out everything you can see, do and explore at one of the best times of year to visit.

Iceland should absolutely be near the top of your bucket list of places to visit in your life. It has everything any traveller could ever want.

Ok, maybe not soaking up the rays in the scorching sun but it tops that with breathtaking scenery, incredibly diverse nature, geological wonders, mindblowing adventure activities and breathtaking scenery.

Alright, I know I said breathtaking scenery twice but once you get there you’ll understand why.

Travelling to Iceland in April is one of the best times of the year to plan your visit. You have the benefits of longer days than the winter months and fewer crowds than the summer months. Depending on what you want out of your trip it might actually be the perfect time to visit Iceland.

Read More: Renting A 4×4 In Iceland – Everything You Need To Know

Pros Of Travelling To Iceland In April

In the middle of winter, you’re looking at an average of just over 4 hours of complete daylight per day. 4 HOURS!

In the middle of April that has risen all the way to nearly 15 hours and no complete darkness at all.

This might not sound like a lot but if you are trying to lose the crowds of summer and save money during the low season then this gives you plenty of time to see the sights.

April is still in the low season in Iceland so you’ll get all of the cost-saving benefits associated with a low number of tourists.

You’ll see lower airfare, accommodation and tour prices to name a few. If you have ever spoken to anyone who has been to Iceland then you’ll know that the one negative thing they always say is ‘it was bloody expensive though’!

Going to Iceland in April will massively help to reduce some of these costs and give you the opportunity to get the most out of your trip.

This is one of the biggest pros of coming to Iceland in April. All of the big tours are still available.

If you come any later then the ice caves are closed due to melting and tours for the Northern Lights are significantly reduced if not stopped completely.

April is the first month when temperatures actually begin to rise. You can expect average highs of around 5°C and average lows of around 0°C (32-41°f).

Yes, this is not particularly warm but it’s the best you can get if you to experience the best of both worlds, summer and winter.

It still rains on about half of the days in April however, it is considerably less than in the winter months.

Cons Of Travelling To Iceland In April

This is not really the worst of cons as you can easily just avoid the dates, however, many stores and activities will be closed on Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Easter Sunday and Monday.

Places like restaurants and hotels will almost certainly still be open but I would avoid those days if you are coming for a short period of time to maximise the number of things you can do and explore.

Easter changes every year but a quick internet search should provide you with the dates for the coming Easter celebrations.

Because it is still very cold the snow and ice may still be blocking some of the routes north and will probably be blocking hiking trails and some of the remote natural hot springs.

In my opinion, you can still get to the very best places to visit in Iceland but it may be more expensive, for example flying to Akureyri for skiing or whale watching .

Things To Do In Iceland In April

There are literally so many things to do in Iceland in April. However, this is a complete list of the very best things to do and a brief explanation of how, when and the best place to do them.

The Northern Lights

Otherwise known as the Aurora Borealis, the Northern Lights has to be near the top of your list when you go to Iceland.

The legendary light show that illuminates the northern skies is one of the most incredible natural phenomena you can see anywhere in the whole world.

There are 3 important things that are essential for you to be able to see the Northern Lights: solar activity, clear skies and darkness.

When you get to Iceland, make sure that you frequently check an Aurora forecast website to maximise your chance of success.

If driving around chasing the best spots is not for you then you could grab a Northern Lights tour and let the operator do all of the work for you.

They will take you somewhere with the minimum amount of light pollution and at the best time of day. This has to be the most likely way to spot the Aurora when visiting Iceland.

Click here for the best Northern Lights tour from Reykjavik

If you are looking to see the Northern Lights in Iceland in April then I HIGHLY recommend that you travel in early April. Anytime past the 15th, it is incredibly difficult to see them. This is because Iceland no longer has actual complete darkness at any time of the day, which is the most likely time to see the show. There is still up to 2 hours of complete darkness in early April so make sure you plan your trip around this.

Golden Circle

Possibly the most famous trio of activities in Iceland, the Golden Circle is a must do when visiting Iceland in April.

It isn’t just because of their incredible beauty and natural wonder either, it’s also because of the relatively close proximity to Reykjavik.

Any traveller flying into the capital can very easily book a tour or simply drive a hire vehicle to the Golden Circle and witness exactly what Iceland is all about with very minimal effort and cost.

This is made even more tempting with the fact that entry to all 3 attractions is free.

Click here to check out the best Golden Circle Tour

The Geysir Geothermal Area comprises of the very first geyser ever to be discovered, hence why all other geysers around the world have this name (albeit with an e instead of an i).

You can walk around this small complex and witness steam seeping out of the ground and boiling hot water flowing down small shallow streams that are eerily green in colour.

The most spectacular attraction, however, is Geysir’s smaller brother Strokkur which erupts steaming water high into the sky every 5 minutes or so.

There are not many places in the whole world where you can witness this incredible natural phenomenon so do not miss this out of your Iceland in April planning.

You will almost certainly not see Geysir erupt as it very seldom shows any signs of life at all and can go decades being completely dormant. If, however, you are lucky enough to see an eruption, it can send water 120ft up into the sky. It may be almost completely unlikely to witness but here’s to hoping!

Read More: Dalvik Whale Watching – Complete Guide

Thingvellir National Park

If you have travelled to Iceland to get away from the 9-5 or to experience some peace and tranquillity then Thingvellir is definitely the place to visit.

Thingvellir has a rich history for the Icelandic people and much can be learnt from the visitor centre as well as walking around the park and reading the various information boards.

However, it’s not just for the history that people come to Thingvellir, the geology is also one of a kind.

Iceland is the only country on Earth where 2 tectonic plates meet above sea level. This means that you can literally see the two sides of the plates.

Thingvellir is one of the best places in Iceland to witness this as right from the car park you can walk through a small canyon and be between the Eurasian and North American plates.

If this still hasn’t convinced you to visit Thingvellir then you can also dive or snorkel the gap between continents at the Silfra fissure.

The water spends so long being filtered through the ground that when it arrives at the fissure you will get visibility of over 100m.

If you are brave enough to try this out then this will be an unforgettable experience no matter what else you do in your lifetime.

Check out the best snorkel tour available at Thingvellir national park!

Gullfoss is a huge powerful waterfall that falls off of an 11m step and a 21m step ledge into a large crevice in the ground.

This is one of the most powerful waterfalls in Iceland if not the most beautiful so be assured to be awed by the sheer sound and spray it creates.

Gullfoss is usually the last visit of any tour or simply the last as it is the furthest away from Reykjavik.

I recommend going, even if you don’t really like waterfalls, because of the close proximity to Geysir. It’s only 10 minutes away from Geysir so it would be a shame to miss it out.

If you are arranging an  ice cave tour  or a  snowmobile tour  close to Reykjavik then they will probably be picking you up at Gullfoss waterfall. If this is the case, this is an even better reason to give yourself a little bit of extra time to go down and see the falls.

If you are travelling to Iceland in April, or any other time for that matter, then you will definitely have heard of the many geothermally heated lagoons and hot springs dotted throughout the country.

There are large well-maintained tourist lagoons as well as much smaller more secret natural hot springs to find throughout the Icelandic landscape.

You can actually plan your entire trip around trying to find these secret spots and maybe even get to bathe in the middle of the mountains surrounded by nothing but your own company and the snow-peaked summits.

I highly recommend visiting the Blue Lagoon purely because of its incredible beauty and fame.

It’s so large that whenever you go you’ll be able to find a spot to relax all by yourself.

If you are more into nature and trying to find that secluded spot all by yourself then I recommend trying to find Landbrotalaug spring.

This gorgeous little romantic hot spring fits up to three people and is perfect to disappear from the buzz of the city for a short time.

Iceland in April is still quite cold and some of the natural hot springs are so remote that the snow may still be blocking the entrance.

Make sure that you check the road conditions and whether the hot springs are accessible before you travel.

This is the main reason why travelling to Iceland in April is perfect. If you were to travel one month earlier then there would be no puffins to see! One month later and the crowds begin to appear around the nesting areas.

If you’re not that into birds or nature then you can give this a miss if you want but I highly recommend that you don’t. There are so many places you can see them that will almost certainly fit in with your already planned trip.

For example, if you are planning on exploring the south-east coast of Iceland like many people do, then you can simply stop off at Dyrhólaey.

The puffins nest in the cliffs and around the huge natural arch formation and is a great place to see the puffins without having to alter your course to do so.

If you are visiting Iceland primarily to see the puffins then I highly recommend going to the Látrabjarg cliffs in west Iceland or taking a short boat ride over to the Westman islands off the south coast. Either of these locations will bring you the highest numbers and best photo opportunities you can get in Iceland.

In April there are two main places you will be able to grab a whale watching tour from, Reykjavik or Húsavík in the north . Check out our entire guide to whale watching in Reykjavik here or watch our video below to see exactly what you can expect!

If you are looking to see the most variety of whales, like blue whales and humpbacks, then you simply must venture north to Akureyri and its neighbouring towns.

That’s not to say that Reykjavik is bad, quite the contrary. You should be able to see whales from any tour out of Reykjavik, like minke whales, but the variety and quantity may not be the same. So if you simply don’t have the time to go north to Akureyri then a whale watching tour from Reykjavik is still a very good option.

Have a look at the best whale watching tour from Húsavík .

There are 2 things to consider. Firstly, if you are coming to Iceland solely for the animals then understand that April is the very beginning of the season for these kinds of tours so they may not be quite as fruitful as you may hope. I recommend coming  from June onwards  if this is your only goal.

The snow may not have melted enough to actually reach Akureyri in the north by the start of April. Always check the road condition before you set out to reduce risk and disappointment. If this is the case, you could always fly to Akureyri from Reykjavik.  Book a seat on the shuttle bus  from your accommodation to Keflavik airport.

Explore The South East

If you are coming to Iceland in April then you have to add this to your itinerary. The southeast has some of the best and most beautiful sights that Iceland has to offer and all of it will be completely accessible come April.

Treat this as a mini road trip from Reykjavik to Diamond Beach, stopping off at various sights along the way. Have a look at my complete road trip on Google maps below for some inspiration.

Head out of Reykjavik to your first stop at Seljalandsfoss waterfall. This is one of the most famous waterfalls in Iceland as you can walk completely behind it and get some stunning pictures through the water.

After Seljalandsfoss, make your way down the coast to Skógafoss waterfall.

Skógafoss is conveniently very close to the Route 1 ring road so this stop shouldn’t take to much of your time.

However, the next stop at the Solheimasandur plane wreck is considerably longer. You used to be able to drive down to the plane but now you must walk. This walk is roughly 1 hour each way and I don’t recommend it if the snow is still thick due to safety reasons.

After Solheimasandur, I recommend stopping at Dyrhólaey to see the puffins on the cliffs and incredible panoramic views you get from the top.

Make your way round to Reynisfjara beach after Dyrhólaey to walk on the most famous black beach in all of Iceland. You can also get something to eat as this is a great place to find a restaurant with a view.

The penultimate location is Svartifoss waterfall which, like Solheimasandur, is a bit of a trek. Park up and take the incredibly beautiful trail up to the falls which is roughly 1.5 km each way. This is another long trek but luckily the last big walk of the day.

Lastly, make your way up to Diamond beach and finish your day with, I think, the most beautiful beach in all of Iceland. The jet black sand is literally covered in ice diamonds varying in size and shape. The contrasts between ice and black make it a truly memorable experience.

If you have got up very early then this will take you all day for sure. I recommend staying at Skyrhúsid Guest House which is only 10 minutes from Diamond Beach. If you have not been able to see everything in 1 day then simply stay here and see what you missed on the way back to Reykjavik the following morning.

Check Out The Reviews Of Skyrhúsid Guest House Here

April is a fantastic month to go skiing in the north of Iceland . There are many very well-made floodlit resorts that allow you to really experience skiing like never before, for example with the Northern Lights glittering above your head.

Not only that but there is a fantastic ski festival called AK Extreme which is basically people doing ludicrous jumps and tricks for the enjoyment of the crowds! If you can tie in your ski trip to Iceland in April with this festival then I highly recommend that you do.

If you are going to Iceland to go skiing then fly directly to Akureyri. If you fly to Reykjavik and the snow hasn’t cleared enough to drive to Akureyri then this could ruin your trip.

The following tours can only be done with a certified tour guide and trying to do them on your own is extremely dangerous and almost certainly illegal. So I have found the best tours for the following activities for Iceland in April.

• Glacier Tours
• Whale Watching
• Snowmobile Tours
• Snorkelling at Thingvellir
• Helicopter Tour

Tips For Travelling To Iceland In April

This is a big one! Iceland will still have snow on the ground and ice on the roads in April.

This means that you have to be extra careful whilst driving your hire vehicle, even on the main Route 1 ring road. There will also be places that you simply cannot go as roads may be cut off or closed.

Always check the conditions online before you go on any journey and if you come across an area where you do not feel safe then simply turn around.

However, I still recommend hiring a vehicle for your trip to Iceland in April as if you are careful then you should be completely fine. The freedom a vehicle gives you will allow you to see and visit many more places than if you were going to them all via tour or public transport.

Do NOT hire a 2 wheel drive to save money as they are not allowed on F-roads which hide some of the more beautiful places in Iceland.

Ignore people that say a 2×2 will be fine going on some of these roads as if you are the first person that screws up your vehicle then you’ll be facing a hefty fine. We hired a 4×4 vehicle in Iceland in November and I never felt in any danger at all.

Iceland has some of the best souvenirs in the whole world. Unlike other countries where you mostly just buy t-shirts and other assorted rubbish, Iceland actually has very good quality and stunning souvenirs to help remember your journey better.

Check out our guide to Icelandic souvenirs for more inspiration on what you can bring back to your loved ones.

Iceland is a photographer’s dream – and even if you’re not a professional, you’ll still want to capture the country’s beauty! You don’t need a crazy camera to get the good shots either – click on the link below to read more about our top camera recommendation!

The perfect travel companion! The Panasonic Lumix LX10 fits easily into your pocket, captures beautiful 20.1MP images, records gorgeous 4K footage, and does this all through the brilliant 24-72mm Leica lens. Level up your travel photography today!

Recommended Packing List For Iceland

Iceland is pretty cold all year round and, although it is starting to warm up in April, it is still pretty cold. Here are some fantastic products to ensure that the cold doesn’t ruin your trip to this wonderful country. Remember, Amazon has deals all the time so make sure to go through the links to see if you can grab a bargain.

If you are thinking of going into colder climates then you have to make sure you have a suitable jacket to go along for the ride. This ski jacket is waterproof and windproof which helps keep out the cold and a fleece lining which helps to keep in the warmth. The jacket is also extremely affordable compared to other brands meaning your comfort is no longer going to cost you an arm and a leg!

People often buy really good gloves, hats, boots, and jackets when they are going into colder climates but neglect the need for a good pair of waterproof/windproof trousers to go along with it. These brilliant fleece-lined trousers will keep you warm, dry, and comfortable for those long days in the freezing cold.

You can spend an insane amount of money on hiking boots if you want (trust me, I have) but, unless you're planning on travelling to the Arctic Circle, you simply don't have to break the bank. These amazingly diverse and adaptable boots by Columbia will handle everything you throw at them, whilst keeping your feet dry, warm, and pain-free!

If you really feel the cold but already have a decent jacket and insulated trousers , then you have to check out these fleece-lined thermal long johns and top base layer. These will fit under your outer clothes and give a massive increase to your warmth whilst paired with other quality winter wear. A must-have for someone who struggles with the cold.

If you need a pair of no-nonsense, warm, waterproof, and windproof gloves that will work with your touch devices then we highly recommend checking out these gloves. I recommend getting slightly larger than you think as the sizing is on the small size.

If you're going to be wearing boots, especially in colder climates, then you need to grab yourself a decent set of cold-weather socks. These thermal socks from HOT FEET don't break the bank and will keep your feet warm in some of the coldest weather. You also get 8 pairs!

A gorgeous 100% Icelandic wool hand-knitted hat to keep your head warm in the coldest situations. It would make a perfect gift/souvenir for anyone who is travelling to Iceland or has travelled to Iceland and forgotten to pick one up when they were there!

Cotton is the way to go to keep you warm on cold nights staring up at the beautiful starry sky, surrounded by ice and snow. This is from Amazon Basics so you're not paying a premium for a famous brand but you're still getting that thick cotton quality.

Jade prefers wearing ear muffs because it gives her more options to style her hair whilst also keeping her little ears warm. If that sounds like something you might struggle with then check out these fantastic ear warmers that come in a variety of colours!

Frequently Asked Questions

Does iceland have snow in april.

Yes. It is starting to reduce however there is still enough snow and ice that the roads to the north can still be closed or hazardous.

Does It Snow In Iceland In April?

There is a good chance of snow as it rains on average 18 days of the month. However, this will mostly be rain due to the slightly rising temperatures.

Does It Get Dark In Iceland In April?

The beginning of April does still have around 2 hours of complete darkness where you can still see the Northern Lights however towards the end there is no complete darkness, just relative darkness.

Will I See The Northern Lights In April In Iceland?

At the beginning of April, there is still enough complete darkness that the Northern Lights can be seen. However, you will also need clear skies and solar activity which cannot be forecast far in advance. These last 2 factors are mostly down to luck, however, this is the same throughout the year.

Can You Ski In Iceland In April?

Yes. Skiing in Iceland in April is a great time to go but I advise flying into Akureyri as the roads may be closed from the south.

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I must tell you that my tour with you is probably THE best tour I've ever taken (and I've taken a lot). My guide Rico set a bar so high that I don’t know i...

Considering taking a trip to Iceland in April? Read on to find out everything you need to know — from the weather in Iceland in April, to the activities you can enjoy on this unspoiled island.

Visiting Iceland in April: an overview

• What's the weather like in Iceland in April?

Best things to do in Iceland in April

Can you see the northern lights in iceland in april, unforgettable, fully customisable iceland itineraries, travel ideas for iceland, created by local experts.

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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.

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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.

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Best of the West

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.

Here we share intel on some of the unique adventures you can enjoy in Iceland in April — including the Northern Lights — along with info about the weather in Iceland in April.

Benefits of visiting Iceland in April

April is a sweet spot for visiting Iceland. One major advantage is the smaller crowds, which makes the experience all the more intimate.

The majority of tourist destinations are open with smaller queues, leaving you with more time to explore. 

Visiting in April also means you'll be able to witness unforgettable wildlife sights like puffins and whales.

In additiion, the Northern Lights are still very much observable at this time. 

Bonus point: April is one of the cheapest months to visit Iceland, with more  affordable accommodation prices.

Not sure where you want to go? Discover more cool destinations to visit in April .

Drawbacks of visiting Iceland in April

Despite its perks, visiting Iceland in April has some drawbacks. 

One primary concern is the unpredictable weather. Afternoons may be sunny and warm, mornings might be rainy, and nights can be chilly. 

There's even a chance of unexpected storms that could compel you to change your itinerary. 

As temperatures are less likely to dip below freezing in April, another disadvantage is the potential lack of opportunity to enjoy extreme winter adventures. 

So, if ice trekking or glacier climbing are high on your list, you might be better off visiting Iceland in January or February .

For more inspiration, browse our customisable Iceland itineraries .

Vatnajokull, Iceland © Shutterstock

What's the weather like in Iceland in April?

Before you embark on your journey to the land of glaciers and geysers, it's crucial to wise up on the ever-changing weather in Iceland in April.

Temperature range in April

April is the first month of the year that sees the average temperature sit regularly above the freezing point.

During April, the average temperature stays between 34°F and 45°F (1-1.5 °C). 

As the month progresses, the days grow longer and sunnier with increased daytime hours. 

Undecided about April? Read our guide to the best time to visit Iceland .

Snowfall and road conditions in April

In comparison with the preceding winter months, snowfall in April is sporadic and less frequent.

That said, don't be lulled into a false sense of security. Even in April, roads can be snowy and slippery, especially in remote areas. In addition, road closures as a result of storms aren't unheard of.

All that considered, it's wise to check road conditions and weather updates before setting off.

Even if you're comfortable handling snowy and slippery roads, opting for a 4x4 with studded winter tyres is highly recommended. 

Akureyri, Iceland © Shutterstock

While there are tonnes of incredible things to do in Iceland , here's a breakdown of the best things to do in April.

Witness the magic of the Northern Lights

April is a fantastic time to experience the mesmerizing phenomenon of the Northern Lights in Iceland — AKA the Aurora Borealis. 

As the sky is still dark enough during the night, this spectacle of dancing, vibrant colours can be observed with remarkable clarity. 

The magic begins when the sun goes down. As the sky turns pitch black, it's illuminated by hues of green, purple, pink, red, and blue. 

As a bonus, Iceland's relatively mild weather in April make Northern lights gazing all the more comfortable.

While cloud cover might be unpredictable in April, with patience and luck, catching a glimpse of the spectacle is often possible.

To increase your chance of seeing them, use resources like the Icelandic Meteorological Office website , where information is updated in real-time.

Overall, remember that sightings can never be guaranteed as the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon and depend on weather conditions and solar activity. 

Nonetheless, the anticipation and the excitement of the hunt make the experience well worth pursuing.

The weather in Iceland in April offers opportunities to see the Northern Lights before the season ends @ Shutterstock

Dolphin and whale watching

Dolphin and whale watching is a popular and rewarding activity to enjoy in Iceland in April in Iceland. This is when the season starts to get into full swing. 

Get lucky, and you could see 20+ species of whales and dolphins  — including mink whales, humpback whales, and harbor porpoises — around the coast.

2-4 hour whale-watching tours can be booked from Reykjavik and Akureyri , with options to travel on a traditional oak boat or RIB speed boat. 

As a bonus, if no whales are sighted during your trip, you can usually join the next available tour free of charge. 

If you're also interested in bird-watching, don't miss out on the puffin-watching tours that operate from late April to early May.

Tip: remember to wrap up warm — it gets chilly at sea, even in April.

Humpback whale, Iceland @ Shutterstock

Visit the South Coast and Golden Circle

Exploring the South Coast and the Golden Circle is an absolute must-do when visiting Iceland in April.

The South Coast provides a contrasting variety of natural attractions — from Reynisfjara black sand beach, to the mighty Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls. 

Hiking through the glacier at Skaftafell , and witnessing the majesty of Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, are also unforgettable experiences.

The Golden Circle's major attractions — including the iconic Þingvellir National Park, the stunning Gullfoss waterfall, and the Geysir geothermal area in Haukadalur — also become more accessible in April.

As April arrives in Iceland, winter retreats, taking with it the ethereal dance of the northern lights. This means April is your last chance to see them.

Where to see the Northern Lights

Given that viewing the Northern Lights is the prime reason many people visit Iceland, here's a run-down of some of the best places to see them.

• Thingvellir National Park : 40 minutes drive from Reykjavik, this popular sighting-spot has dark, unobstructed skies.
• Grotta lighthouse : located in the Seltjarnarnes area, Grotta's darkness and proximity to the capital make it ideal. 
• Grundarfjordur : located on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, this offers  unobstructed views, with the Kirkjufell mountain adding photogenic majesty. 
• Vik : known for its iconic backdrop (the Reynisdrangar pillars and black sand beach), Vik is a top Northern Lights spot.
• Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon : the reflections of the Northern Lights in this crystal clear lagoon are truly breathtaking.

As a general rule, to see the lights in their full glory, you need to avoid light pooluation. Even driving a short distance out of town could significantly improve your chances. 

Northern Lights in Jokulsarlon @ Diana Jarvis

It depends on the weather conditions

Observing the Northern Lights is dependent on weather conditions, with clear, dark skies a prerequisite.

This means — ideally — no cloud cover, no rain, and (obviously) no daylight. 

Whether or not you'll see the aurora comes down to a mix of solar activity — which causes the lights — and the weather, which can hinder or help visibility.

Even if solar activity is high, a cloudy or rainy sky will prevent you from seeing the lights. Also note that if the weather looks unfavourable, Northern Lights tour operators might cancel.

This means it's wise to have a backup plan, especially as the weather in Iceland in April is notorious for being changeable. As the saying goes, "If you don't like the weather in Iceland, just wait 5 minutes".

Above all, stay hopeful! You never know when the sky might clear and present you with an aurora display you'll remember for the rest of your life.

Our tailor-made trip service will enable you to enjoy Iceland in April, whatever the weather, without the hassle of planning. 

All our itineraries are created by local Iceland travel experts and can be tailored to your specific needs and interests.

• Iceland: West and North combined (10 days): take to untravelled roads to explore Iceland's northern and western fjords in your rental car. Glaciers, lava fields, beaches, waterfalls, and much more await.
• South Coast and Snaefellsnes (7 days): in just one week you can discover the popular Golden Circle, Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss, and Skaftafell National Park. 
• Westfjords Circle and Strandir (6 days): the wild Westfjords are a stunning landscape of towering mountains, deep blue fjords, thundering waterfalls, sea cliffs, teeming birds and rejuvenating hot springs. 

Browse all our Iceland itineraries .

Siglufjordur Harbour at dawn, Iceland

Read on to discover the answers to common questions as you plan your trip to Iceland.

Is April a good time to visit Iceland?

Yes — April is a good time to visit Iceland. This month allows you to experience the lingering winter along with the coming of spring.

April means fewer tourists, lower costs, and a good chance of seeing the last of the Northern Lights. Just remember the weather in Iceland in April can be unpredictable.

What are the best things to see in Iceland in April?

The best things to see in Iceland in April include the awe-inspiring Northern Lights, and breathtaking waterfalls, geysers (like Strokkur in the Geysir geothermal area), glacier lagoons, and Thingvellir National Park. 

Also, you have a good chance of spotting dolphins and whales in April.

What to pack for April in Iceland

When going to Iceland in April, be ruled by the fact that the weather is changeable. Here's a handy list of what to bring.

• Weatherproof jacket : a good waterproof jacket is essential to protect you from rain and winds.
• Hiking boots/waterproof sturdy shoes : keep your feet comfortable and dry while exploring, rugged wet landscapes.
• Base layers : thermal base layers are a must for colder mornings and nights, especially if you're planning to watch the Northern Lights.
• Hat, gloves and scarf : for extra warmth when it's windy.
• Comfortable waterproof trousers : preferably multi-use, so they cover everyday wear and hiking trips.
• Swimsuit and towel : you can't leave Iceland without a dip in their hot springs.
• Face and lip moisturisers : to protect your skin in windy conditions.
• Fleece layer : for added warmth under your weatherproof jacket.
• Waterproof backpack : to protect your electronics and other belongings from unexpected rain showers.

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

The Rough Guides to Iceland and related travel guides

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• Travel Tips Iceland for planning and on the go
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Find even more inspiration here

written by Olga Sitnitsa

updated 15.12.2023

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

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Unveiling the Springtime Wonders of Iceland in April

Homepage Blog Things to do

Posted Feb 10, 2023 in Things to do

Posted Feb 10, 2023

April in Iceland means that it’s officially springtime on the island. But except for the weather getting better, April also holds a lot of other perks for those visiting Iceland during the month.

In this article, we discuss everything you need to know about April in Iceland . From the weather and what to pack, to all the things there is to do and see on the island during these times. Do you still wonder if April might be the right time for you to come for a visit? This guide will definitely push you in the right direction.

Is April a Good Time to Go to Iceland?

April is an ideal time to visit Iceland for those seeking a blend of winter's end and the onset of spring. It's a period of transformation, where you can witness the melting snow revealing green landscapes. With fewer tourists, you'll enjoy Iceland's natural wonders in relative solitude.

This unique transition period offers a serene and more personal experience of Iceland's breathtaking beauty.

Weather in Iceland in April

In April, Iceland's temperatures typically range from 32°F to 41°F, offering a noticeable improvement over the colder winter months. This period marks a return to more balanced day and night durations, setting the stage for the approaching summer, while still retaining a crisp, spring-like atmosphere.

This month brings a mix of snow and early spring blossoms, with longer daylight hours enhancing your sightseeing opportunities. Always be prepared for sudden weather changes, typical of Icelandic spring.

Can I See Northern Lights in Iceland in April?

Catching the Northern Lights in Iceland during April is possible, but it requires luck and timing. As the nights grow shorter and the skies brighter, your window to witness this celestial dance narrows. However, early April still offers dark enough evenings for a chance to see the aurora borealis.

For the best experience, head to remote areas with minimal light pollution on clear, dark nights.

Things to do in Iceland in April

Glacier hike.

Glacier hiking in Iceland is an exhilarating experience, blending adventure with awe-inspiring natural beauty. Popular glaciers like Vatnajökull and Sólheimajökull offer guided hikes, suitable for various skill levels.

These treks allow you to explore stunning ice formations, deep crevasses, and brilliant blue ice caves. It's a chance to witness the dynamic nature of Iceland's glaciers up close.

Explore the South Coast

Exploring Iceland's South Coast is a journey through a landscape of contrasts, featuring waterfalls, black sand beaches, and rugged cliffs. Highlights include the powerful Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls, the haunting beauty of Reynisfjara beach, and the picturesque village of Vik.

This region also offers views of Eyjafjallajökull volcano and access to the enchanting Vestmannaeyjar archipelago.

Whale Watching

Whale watching in Iceland is a mesmerizing activity, particularly in the rich waters off Husavik and Reykjavik. These tours offer encounters with majestic humpback, minke, and sometimes even blue whales.

The best season stretches from April to October, with the warmer months increasing your chances of sightings. This eco-friendly adventure provides a unique perspective on Iceland's marine biodiversity.

Visit a Geothermal Spa

Visiting a geothermal spa in Iceland, such as the iconic Blue Lagoon or the lesser-known Secret Lagoon, offers a blend of relaxation and natural therapy. These spas, set in surreal landscapes, provide warm, mineral-rich waters known for their health benefits.

It's an ideal way to unwind after a day of exploring, surrounded by Iceland's stunning natural beauty.

Witness the Northern Lights

Witnessing the Northern Lights in Iceland is an unforgettable experience, best enjoyed from September to April. These months provide long, dark nights ideal for observing the aurora borealis. Prime viewing spots are away from city lights, offering clear, dark skies.

The unpredictability adds to the excitement, making each sighting a unique and mesmerizing display of nature's artistry.

Packing List When Traveling to Iceland in April

If you’re still a little unclear on what to pack for a spring month in a place called Iceland, don’t worry. We’ve created this handy packing list for you to use as a guide:

• Warm, waterproof jacket
• Fleece/woolen sweater. (only one or two, so you can have enough space in your suitcase to take a couple authentic Icelandic woolen sweaters home with you)
• Waterproof pants
• Waterproof hiking boots. (whether you’re planning on actually hiking or not)
• Thermal vests
• Thermal leggings
• Warm, woolen socks
• T-shirts & long-sleeved shirts
• Casual pants. (for whenever you’re sticking to the city perimeters)
• Warm hat (beanies come highly recommended)
• Warm gloves
• Bathing suit (for when you want to take a soak in a hot spring)
• Quick-drying towel. (even in spring, you don’t want to be lugging around wet things on your travels)
• Flip-flops (to use at the hot springs and other public changing rooms)
• Toiletries & medications. (remember to always check flight restrictions, so you don’t have to pour half a liter of expensive conditioner down an airport drain)
• Water bottle. (Iceland has some of the highest quality water you’ll find anywhere in the world, so you’ll only need to top up as you go)
• Backpack. (suitable for day outings and hikes)
• Electronic devices: cables, chargers, an adaptor, a power bank, etc.

April in Iceland: Your Dream Holiday Awaits!

There’s not much more you can ask from a much-loved destination like Iceland than what you get in April. Nice weather, long days, loads to see and do, and the perfect road trip conditions. So, are you ready for the trip of a lifetime? Then book the flight, rent a motorhome in Iceland and come and explore the island in April!

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April in Iceland: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

One of the beautiful things about visiting Iceland in April is that you're missing the mass crowds hunting for the Northern Lights or chasing the Midnight Sun. This is the perfect month to experience the country in a less crowded atmosphere, especially if you plan on visiting some of the more well-visited attractions such as the Golden Circle or Blue Lagoon.

Afternoons are sunny and warm, but be prepared to go with the flow when it comes to weather. Mornings may be rainy and nights chilly, and there's always the chance that an unexpected storm could derail road trip plans. If you have a flexible schedule, though, you can rest easy: The higher temperatures will melt the snow quickly and you'll be back on track soon.

From what to pack to annual events, here is everything you need to know about visiting the Land of Fire and Ice during the month of April.

Seasonal Information

With between 13 and 16 hours of sunlight every day, April is a relatively bright month for Iceland (the country only sees six to eight hours of sun in the dead of winter). This makes April a great time of year to plan a road trip, as more sunlight means more driving time.

Local flora starts to bloom, especially toward the end of the month. A lot animals, including lambs and horses, are born in April as well—so there's a good chance you will get to see beautiful flowers and adorable baby animals during your visit.

Iceland Weather in April

April is the first month of the year that sees temperatures regularly above freezing. If you really and truly hate chilly wintertime temperatures, plan your trip for April at the earliest. Average temperatures range from 35 degrees Fahrenheit to 43 degrees Fahrenheit.

If there is a snow storm, it won't stick around too long given the warmer temperatures. There is quite a bit of rain, but the days do get sunnier (and even longer) as the month goes on.

What to Pack

Winter boots are not totally necessary in April—but if you have room in your suitcase, bringing them is never a bad idea. Take care to make sure your hiking boots are waterproof as springtime in Iceland can get quite wet and muddy.

Packing a myriad of layers is important. You will want a wool or synthetic base layer, but make sure it's something you wouldn't mind wearing in public: Some afternoons can get surprisingly warm, so you might find yourself shedding your outer layer. Extra pairs of socks are smart to pack as well.

April Events in Iceland

There aren't as many festivals and events happening around the country in April—it could be because everyone is too busy being outside and taking in the (much) nicer weather. However, here are a couple to keep an eye on if you're planning a trip in April:

• Children's Culture Festival : From April 9-14, this festival in Reykjavík invites children to participate in various art workshops and performances focused on theatre, puppetry, film, music, visual arts, and more. Children up to the age of 16 are invited to attend.
• Iceland Writer's Retreat : You'll need to be accepted to participate in this workshop, but every year writers from around the world convene to share ideas, techniques, and inspiration. In between sessions, participants are also invited to go on exclusive tours of local sights.

April Travel Tips

• Because the Northern Lights are much harder to see and don't make many appearances in April, consider visiting the country some other time if you have your heart on catching the seasonal phenomenon.
• Road conditions are much easier to handle, so this is a good time to travel the Golden Circle or Ring Road .
• Crowds are much smaller, so lines to attractions are not as long as they are during other times of year.
• You will not be able to go on ice cave tours once the warm weather comes due to unpredictable ice melt. If this is something you really want to do, you should plan a trip to Iceland from mid-November to mid-March.

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Learn how to easily plan your dream trip to Iceland with helpful guides and tips!

Best (And Worst) Time To Visit Iceland (Month By Month!)

February 19, 2022 //  by  Iceland Trippers //   Leave a Comment

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?

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13 Reasons Why Visiting Iceland in April is the Perfect Time to Go

By: Author MC Miller

Posted on Last updated: July 31, 2023

Categories Europe , Iceland , Travel Guides

If you are spoilt for choice as when to holiday, visiting Iceland in April is a great choice. 

April in Iceland is off season so it will be slightly less expensive. Of course, it is expensive year round but prices will be slightly more affordable in April. 

Also, the weather is PERFECT in April – you are not affected by the harsh conditions of winter and summer has yet to set in and there are many unique festivals to enjoy. It is actually so perfect in April, I could argue it is the best time to go on honeymoon in Iceland .

Keep reading for 13 reasons why visiting Iceland in April is the perfect time of year to go.

Plan Your Iceland Trip! 🛌 Find the perfect hotel on Booking.com 🎫 Get exploring by booking tours and excursions on Viator 🚗 Find the cheapest car with Car rentals  

1. The April Weather

The weather in Iceland in April is a bit of a treat.

To the delight of Icelanders, daylight hours increase from 3 hours in December to 13 -16 a day in April. We recently stayed in Iceland in June and there was a bit too many hours of sunlight for my personal liking. April is perfect. Not to few not too much – just right!

If you prefer green countryside to snowy flats, April brings marks Spring in Iceland bringing with it green countryside and flowing waterfalls (rather than frosted over ones) and beautiful bluebell flowers.

The downside to April weather is that it can easily rain, hail or be sunny in the same hour.

Despite the fact that it is Spring, do not expect 20 degrees celsius (68 F) weather. Temperates average around 7 -10 degrees Celsius (45 F) by the end of April so you will still need to bring your winter woolies with you. It’s even cold in Iceland in summer so don’t be fooled by the idea of spring in Iceland – pack accordingly!

The plus side is that you will achieve far greater daylight hours and temperatures will likely not fall below freezing. A win for a country called Iceland! 

2. Visiting in Low Season

If you avoid Easter travel, the majority of April is considered low season.

This means that the prices of the cool unique accommodation in Iceland , the availability, price of tours in Iceland and even flights to Iceland is considerably lower. If you are traveling on a budget, April is a great time to go as you achieve a lot more bang for your buck.

Also, we personally love traveling in low season as there is far less people around – imagine being shoulder to shoulder in the blue lagoon – yuck.

Crowds in popular spots across the South Coast and Lake Mývatn will be also be far less. This means you get a chance to experience Iceland’s beauty with hoards of people. And, I’m all for that!

The busiest month to travel to Iceland is August. If you want a summer month before August, June in Iceland is a good time to consider.

Spring is a stunning time of year in Iceland when the Icelandic bluebells are in bloom

3. A chance to experience April Fools in Iceland

This international tradition, held on 1 April, is taken quite seriously in Iceland.

Don’t be surprised if there is a harmless April Fools joke at your hotel or on your tour in Iceland. Icelandic newspapers also join in on the fun; every year on April fools, they publish a fake story, hidden within the real news, which is kind of hilarious.

4. A chance to see an abundance of wildlife

April is an ideal month for wildlife viewing as it is the month when new wildlife is born. It is also the best time of year to view whales and puffins in Iceland.

Whale Watching

You can go whale watching year round in Iceland. The best time of year to see them however is from April till the end of summer.

Many species like the Humpback whale, killer whale, orcas and minke whales can be scouted in the cold waters around Iceland.

April is a great month for wildlife in Iceland in general. If you go on a marine wildlife tour, you can often see other wildlife such as harbour porpoises, white-beaked dolphin and sharks.

If you would like to go for a whale watching tour while in Iceland, the whale tours that depart from the Old Harbor in Reykjavík or from small fishing villages like Húsavík in the north of Akureyri.

Best Whale watching Tours in Iceland:

• Whale Watching Cruise on a Yacht in Reykjavik
• Big Whales & Puffins RIB boat tour from Húsavík
• Classic original whale watching cruise from Reykjavík

Whale spotted in Húsavík, Iceland

Puffin Viewing

Puffins or Lundi as the Icelanders call them are majestic birds that can be found all over the island. These cute birds are seriously the superstars of Iceland.

Iceland boosts a high puffin population but you can only view them from April onwards because they spend the winter elsewhere and return to Iceland in April for the summer. 

One well-known Puffin spot is Látrabjarg in the Westfjords, which is the westmost part of the island.

If you are feeling adventurous, you can either hire a rental car and go there yourself or alternatively book a puffin tour by boat , which are a great way to get up and personal with the puffins. While I’m not usually the biggest fan of tours, they are usually when you have the best chance to spot the wildlife as an expert points you in the right direction. Puffin tours are also generally by boat which you can’t DIY.

People seldom get to see Puffins outside of Iceland (and a few other places) so April is a perfect time to visit to have a chance to see these cute little birds.

Best Puffin Tours in Iceland:

• Cheap puffin express tour from Reykjavík

Puffins seen in Látrabjarg Iceland

5. Great viewing of the Auroras

Believe it or not, the enigmatic northern lights are even more magical during April than in the winter months. We have visited Iceland in December before and seen nothing over multiple days due to to cloud coverage.

If you want a chance to see the Northern lights in Iceland in April, it is best to travel in the first half of the month.

To see them in all their exuberance, a pitch-black background is needed (aka no city lights) so in April you’ll have to go at a later hour to gaze at the northern auroras. It’s best to hunt for them in the light-free countryside, away from the cities.

Viewing the Auroras is highly dependant on luck – we should know – we have been disappointed numerous times. The dancing lights are very elusive so you might end up going home without having seen them at all. This is largely due to rain and cloud coverage.

For the very best chance of viewing them, we would highly recommend booking a Northern Lights Tour. We have avoided these tours in the past but have had little success finding the Northern Lights on our own.

You have a few choices when going on a Northern Lights tour: you can either sail by boat, travel via jeep to access lesser-known viewing areas or go on an economical bus tour.

The tours are pretty high tech – they even have weather specialists, who foretell the peak time to view the auroras. 

Best Northern Lights Tours in Iceland:

• #1 Northern Lights tour in Iceland from Reykjavik with PRO photos
• Northern Lights Tour with Icelandic Snacks and Hot Chocolate

6. AK Extreme Festival

Love snowboarding and music? Then the AK Extreme festival is the place for you.

AK Extreme is a snowboarding and music festival that is held at Hlíðarfjall, the mountain next door to Akureyri, in the northern part of Iceland in early April.

This four-day mega event attracts adventurists and music lovers from all across Iceland and the world.

In 2020, for the main event, a horrifying Big Jump set up will be constructed out of fifteen shipping containers from Eimskip in the middle of town.

During this time, music concerts will be held all over town, enlivening Akureyri.

If you love snowboarding and music it is an event in Iceland in April not to be missed!

7. The Golden Circle

The Golden Circle in Iceland is possibly the most popular self drive route year round and April is a great time to do it, especially if you are a nervous driver. You will need a car rental in Iceland to drive it or if you’re not feeling up to the car hire you can see some spots on a 1 day Golden Circle tour from the capital.

For those of you who don’t know, The Golden Circle is a self drive tourist loop in southern Iceland that covers 300 kilometers or 190 miles of Iceland’s most beautiful spots.

The route extends from the capital to Iceland’s southern uplands. The Golden Circle has three primary stops on the route: Þingvellir National Park, the geothermal area (including geysers Strokkur and Geysir) in Haukadalur and the Gullfoss waterfall. 

The Golden Circle is a must do in Iceland year round but April brings with it untainted scenic beauty and a chance to witness nature at its best.

Iceland is starting to green up in April. Also, if you prefer a flowing waterfall, it may be a better option to see Gullfoss waterfall, when water will be flowing as opposed to December when the waterfall is frozen over.

When we traveled the Golden Circle route in December, it was a difficult drive, we had to drive very slowly due to ice on the road. It was also difficult to walk out to see the geysirs as the ground was frozen over and slippery.

The snow is melted in April so visiting some of Iceland’s beauty is nowhere near as difficult.

8. Children’s Culture Festival

If you are traveling to Iceland with kids in April you might want to schedule a visit to the Children’s Culture Festival – one of the most popular children’s festivals in Iceland.

This festival is held to introduce the youth to the various types of art through workshops and performances. It is a very hands on festival with an emphasis on participation to help children grow as artists.

The festival has a lot of activities for children such as a circus, visual arts, theatre workshops, storytelling, film, music, dance activities and puppetry.

Many kindergartens, primary schools, libraries, theatres, music and art schools take part in order to develop an educational platform for children. 

Despite the fact that prices slightly increase during the dates of Easter, Iceland is a great choice to spend Easter with your family.

If you want to experience something unique and interesting, a (once illegal) bingo game takes place at Austurvöllur in downtown Reykjavík on Easter. Icelandic atheists play it to spite the Icelandic Laws.

Iceland have a few different and unique easter eggs which we would recommend trying at Easter. The first is an Easter egg filled Icelandic candy and like Chinese fortune cookies. The second, for liquorice lovers, is a liquorice-chocolate egg.

One of the most popular activities during Easter is to go skiing. If you would like to go skiing over Eatser, Blafjoll is only 30 minutes away from the capital.

A typical Easter dinner you can experience in Reykjavík is the Easter Leg: Roasted Lamb with sugar-glazed potatoes and gravy.

10. Aldrei Fór Ég Suður Festival

Usually this music festival takes place over the Easter weekend in April.

Aldrei Fór Ég Suður can be translated to “I Never Went South” and is one of Iceland’s biggest music festivals.

The festivals founding story is quite interesting. In 2003, Mugison and his father decided to host a music festival at Ísafjörður, their hometown. At that time, the roads were covered with snow so they knew that the people who dared to venture out would be true music lovers. Such was the case and still is whenever this upbeat festival is held.

Every year, around 3000 people travel to Westfjords just for the Aldrei Fór Ég Suður.

Performers include brass bands, heavy metal bands, accordion players and rappers. The festival included less known artists in Iceland as well as popular Icelandic names such as Retro Stefson and Páll Óskar among others.

Unlike most other music festivals, entry to this festival is free. The management decided to make entry free so that new artists would be not restrained by financial problems and be free to participate. Due to this, it’s also called ‘The People’s Rockfest’.

Drop by Ísafjörður around Easter if you consider yourself to be a true music lover.

Ísafjörður is a pretty cool place to visit in it’s own right

11. Hot Springs April in Iceland

Iceland is home to some of the best healing waters in the world including the Blue Lagoon, the Secret Lagoon, the Sky Lagoon, the Forest Lagoon and the list goes on.

The hot springs of Iceland, being hot by definition are great year round.

If you prefer not to freeze your butt off before getting in April is a perfect time to visit some of the best hot springs in Iceland.

The Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is the most renowned hot spring in Iceland with its milky blue water and a 37 to 38-degree Celsius temperature.

We loved spending time wallowing in the blue lagoon and trying on the natural mud masks. The entry price is expensive, around $100 USD but it is worth every penny, believe me. It includes one drink in the lagoon and a mask which is a bit of fun.

The only ‘downside’ is that it is not a natural hot spring in Iceland but came about due to an accident in a man-made construction in 1976.

You can spend a whole afternoon or morning at the lagoon, it is an impressive full facility spa resort including in-water bars, restaurants, gift shop and message facilities.

Click here to book your tickets in advance which saves you time waiting. Also, I should note it is highly advisable to book your tickets in advance of your time as we almost didn’t get in last time we visited and had to go at 6pm at night!

Alternatively, you might like to visit the newer Sky Lagoon with it’s famous 7 step ritual process.

The Secret Lagoon

If you prefer something a little less touristy, you may prefer to make a visit to the Secret Lagoon in Iceland with water at a constant 37 degree Celsius.

If you are driving the Golden Circle , this hot spring is a possible addition to your journey. Or you can book a tour which includes the Secret Lagoon like this one .

Located in the village Flúðir, this Lagoon is the oldest swimming pool found in Iceland. The water is nowhere near as pretty as the Blue Lagoon but it certainly has less tourists.

While taking a dip, you can take delight in the picturesque scenery surrounding the pool and a small geyser that sprouts out water every few minutes.

The entry price of the secret lagoon is around half the price of the blue lagoon, at around $25 USD pp.

Reykjadalur

If you want to visit a hot spring without the stupidly expensive entry fee, we suggest visiting Reykjadalur.

Reykjadalur is a true wild experience. You will need a car if you want to experience this hot spring.

This steam valley is a 45-minute drive from Reykjavík but you will have to hike up from Hveragerði town to reach the spring.

The hike will take you along the top of deep gorge so if you’re afraid of heights, this may not be the hot spring experience for you.

12. Visit the Glaciers

With slightly warmer days and more boat tours running, April in Iceland is the perfect time to visit the glaciers.

Iceland is a country that has around 10 per cent ice caps so you have a unique opportunity to see and touch some icy glaciers.

Some of the best glaciers in Iceland include:

• Sóheimajökull Glacier:   A stunning rugged glacier with blue crevasses. It is the ideal spot for ice climbing and glacier hiking. Do hike up this mighty beast if you have an appetite for adventure. Here is a tour which covers walking on this glacier .
• Vatnajökull: Next up is Europe’s largest glacier along the South Coast of Iceland. The entire area of this impressive glacier offers hiking trails but with an added bonus of the extraordinary views of the frosty wilderness. Here is a tour covering a glacier walk of Vatnajökull.
• Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon : You can also find gigantic icebergs swimming in the exceptional lagoon which is just a short drive from Skaftafell. A highlight of any Ring Road itinerary. If you aren’t planning to drive the Ring Road you can also get a tour to the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon from Reykjavik .

Ice caves are also stunning and worthwhile to visit however, most of them are closed in Spring. In April, the only the cave at the Mýrdalsjökull Glacier is open for business. If you would like to see an ice cave, it is best to sign up for an ice cave tour .

You can even go snowmobiling on these mighty glaziers and Langjökull , the second biggest glazier is an infamous snowmobiling spot. Here is a great tour that offers snowmobiling and looks super fun .

13. First Day of Summer (What in April?)

Don’t you think April is a bit too early to start celebrating the beginning of summer?

Apparently, in Iceland, it isn’t. Icelanders follow the Norse calendar, which only has two seasons: winter and summer. As a result, summer arrives a little early in the magical island at the end of the world.

The first day of Summer in Iceland is usually on the first Thursday after 18 th of April (the last Thursday of April). The Golden Plover or lóa as the Icelanders like to call it, is a bird that is thought to bring springtime to Iceland.

Every year, newspapers are on the lookout of the first signs of this graceful creature. Its sightings are reported in the national newspapers along with a vibrant picture of the beautiful and colorful bird.

Its arrival is considered a good omen for the summer ahead since it spends the summer in Iceland and only after its arrival can the First Day of Summer be celebrated.

Street parades led by scouts bearing the Icelandic flag are held throughout the country. In honor of the arrival of summer, people wear summer dresses and light-colored clothes.

No mass is held on this day as in 1744 under Danish rule, the Danish Church banned masses on this day. This had little effect on the holiday. Nowadays, it has become a public holiday and a country-wide event.

Kids in Iceland love this event as traditionally parents give summer gifts to their kids on this day as a sign of blessing of the warmth of summer. Usually such gifts include bicycles, balls, toys and other outdoor equipment.

Be sure to join in the fun on the First Day of Summer if you’re ever in Iceland in April!

Summary: Iceland in April – Why is this the month for you?

Iceland is an awe-inspiring country, even more so in April as the ice thaws and summer begins nurturing the country into a stunning green land.

Not only do you get a taste of both summer (first day of summer) and winter (northern lights) but there are some unique reasons to visit Iceland in April including the cute little puffins and awesome festivals like Easter, AK Extreme, Aldrei Fór Ég Suður and Eve Funfest only available in April.

We are sure you will enjoy your visit to Iceland anytime of year but I’m sure you can agree, April in Iceland is uniquely special.

Getting Around Iceland

We highly recommend traveling Iceland by car. It gives you the freedom and flexibility to go where you want, when you want.

We would recommend using RentalCars.com for the cheapest and most reliable car rental in Iceland.

We love this provider as we can find the most affordable car and there is free cancellation available on most cars so if your travel plans change up for a few days before, you can cancel your car free of charge.

Where to stay in Iceland?

There are some seriously cool hotels in Iceland to stay at, especially if you are traveling to Iceland on a special occasion and want something a little unique and special, in Iceland you have come to the RIGHT place!

If you are planning to travel the Ring Road, we found accommodation a little tricky so write a guide to the best hotels to stay on the Ring Road .

Here are our top hotel picks in Reykjavik in accordance with budget:

Budget:   Skuggi Hotel Reykjavík by Keahotels

Mid Range:   Canopy by Hilton Reykjavik City Centre 

Luxury:   Black Pearl Apartment Hotel

While venturing outside of Reykjavik, it is nice to stay somewhere unique. We would recommend accommodation with a hot tub for a premium Northern Lights viewing experience. Here are our top picks along the Golden Circle .

Going to Iceland? Here are some more Resources

If you are headed to Iceland, lucky you! Here are some more resources you might like to help you plan your vacation:

• Iceland Transport Options – Is there Uber in Iceland
• Iceland in June
• Honeymoon Tips for Iceland
• Unique Accommodation in Iceland

Save Iceland in April to Pinterest so you can find it again later!

MC Miller is a travel blogger and writer who has travelled America extensively and abroad to over 80 countries. He founded Couple Travel The World in 2017. Since then, he has spent over 6 years on the road as a full time travel couple. When he not traveling he likes to spend quality time with his partner Bett, planning our their next date or romantic getaway!

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ICELAND TOURS IN APRIL

Experience the quieter side of Iceland by visiting in April. You’ll benefit from lighter traffic on the Ring Road, fewer visitors at major attractions, and the chance to go northern lights hunting. Enjoy a winter getaway in Iceland with a tour designed by the local experts at Nordic Visitor.

VISITING ICELAND IN APRIL

Considering a tour of Iceland in April? Then you’ve come to the right place!

Travelling to Iceland in April lets you experience the quieter side of the country. As it’s the end of winter and night skies are still dark, you could see the aurora borealis on a northern lights tour .

Our Reykjavík-based Iceland experts will customise your itinerary to suit you. You could explore Iceland on a small group tour or drive around the Ring Road on a self-drive adventure . You might want to enjoy a privately guided trip or choose a multi-day tour .

Plus, 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  with us and we'll happily plan your perfect Iceland adventure. You can reach us via our toll-free numbers, contact form or LiveChat.

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Spend your nights in Reykjavik and your days visiting major attractions. Check out these multi-day tours.

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Experience Iceland’s winter beauty and unique culture on your terms with one of these privately guided tours.

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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. 

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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!

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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.

Getting to Iceland

All of Nordic Visitor’s tours of Iceland begin in Reykjavík, the capital. Keflavik International Airport is the gateway for international air travel in Iceland and is served by dozens of airlines. Furthermore, the airport serves as a hub for Icelandair’s transatlantic flights.

The following airlines fly to Keflavik International Airport (KEF) year-round: Icelandair, SAS, KLM, Norwegian, British Airways, EasyJet, Wizz Air and Finnair. Other airlines offer seasonal flights to KEF, including Delta, United Airlines, Air Canada and Lufthansa.

We recommend checking airline websites directly for flight availability and timetables. You can also use an airfare search engine, such as Skyscanner, Dohop or Kayak, for example.

Flights are not included in Nordic Visitor packages. However, all of our itineraries can be customised with extra nights in Reykjavík if you’d like to rest up after your flight.

Travel Guide

Be prepared for just about anything on your Icelandic adventure.

What to pack

Iceland’s weather is as varied as its incredible landscape. Whether you're planning a...

Climate & weather conditions

Iceland enjoys a cool temperate maritime climate thanks to the Gulf Stream, but the...

Winter driving in Iceland

Driving in Iceland is likely to be different than what you’re used to back home, even if you’re...

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Enjoy the slow & stunning drift of azure icebergs ..

Mýrdalsjökull Glacier

A majestic ice cap along the south coast

An idyllic seaside paradise

Blue Lagoon

Relax in this wonderful man made lagoon

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT ICELAND IN APRIL

Depending on what you want to see and where you want to go, April might be the perfect month for your holiday to Iceland . Read on to find out more with these answers to commonly asked questions about visiting Iceland in April.

How is Iceland in April?

As it is still winter in April, there's lighter traffic for driving, fewer visitors at the famous sites, and more availability of accommodation around the country. The high season (summer months) hasn’t started so there are fewer cars on the road, yet many top sites stay open.

There’s another benefit to visiting Iceland in April. Thanks to the balanced daylight and darkness hours, you’ll be able to combine sightseeing in the daytime with hunting for the northern lights at night. This means you can really maximise each day of your trip and do as much as possible.

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

Take your pick from a variety of fun things to do in Iceland in April. Since there are fewer travellers to Iceland at this time, you’ll find that certain tours have better availability, giving you greater flexibility with your itinerary.

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

• Drive along the Ring Road
• Discover the famous Golden Circle
• Marvel at waterfalls
• Hunt for the northern lights
• Dip in hot springs and poolss
• Venture along the Snæfellsnes peninsula
• See geothermal wonders and volcanoes
• Go horse riding or on a whale watching tour
• Walk along unusual beaches
• Admire glacier lagoons

Cultural events in April Iceland offers a range of cultural experiences in April.

Travelling as a family? Then don’t miss the Children’s Culture Festival in Reykjavík. Go along to workshops, exhibitions and activities that allow you to learn new skills together.

If you love music then you might want to consider heading to the Westfjords in April. I Never Went South is a music festival that’s held on the Easter weekend in the town of Ísafjörður, where Icelandic musicians perform for free.

Another notable event in April in Iceland is the First Day of Summer. This national holiday dates back to the Viking era, taking place on the first Thursday after April 18th. You may see locals out in parades, waving the Icelandic flag and playing music.

And, although it’s not a cultural event but a sportive one, the AK Extreme snowboarding festival is held every April in Akureyri. You can watch the experts carve down the slopes and catch some live music too.

Good to know: If you’re unsure about what you want to do in Iceland, don’t worry. Our Iceland experts are based in Reykjavík and know the country inside out. They’ll help you see Iceland your way, tailoring your itinerary by adding all the best excursions and experiences to suit you.

• Explore Iceland winter packages  to start planning your April trip
• Not sure what to do on your April tour? Check out the best things to do in Iceland

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

The best places to visit in Iceland in April include waterfalls, hot springs, geothermal sites, glaciers and more. If you’re coming to chase the northern lights, head to remote locations where there is less light pollution. There are evening tours that can take you there from the capital, Reykjavík.

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

• 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
• Visit the village of Vík to see the interesting rock formations of Dyrhólaey
• Watch icebergs bobbing on the Jökulsárlón   glacier lagoon
• Discover the lunar landscapes of the Lake Mývatn , area
• See the “Capital of North Iceland”, Akureyri
• Roam around the Snæfellsjökull National Park
• Venture “into the glacier” at Langjökull

To keep occupied whilst in the capital, 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

Where you go in Iceland depends on how much time you have to spend. If you are only staying for a few days, your best bet is to explore Reykjavík and the surroundings.

Want to spend a week or longer in Iceland in April? Then you’ll have time to journey around the country in a full circle to reach its many beautiful corners. As well as the southern and western regions, you can explore the east and north of Iceland too.

• Want more inspiration on where to go in April? Take a look at the 10 best places to visit in Iceland
• See the top sights on one of these best-seller Iceland tours

What is the weather like in Iceland in April?

April is the beginning of spring in Iceland. On average there are highs of 7°C (45°F) and lows of 3°C (37°F). There may be rainy days during your Iceland holiday in April, with an average of 20mm of rainfall.

The weather in Iceland is unpredictable, so prepare for sun, wind and rain if you’re planning a trip for April!

What is the temperature in April in Iceland?

In Reykjavík and Akureyri, the average temperature in April is 5°C (41°F). Generally Iceland experiences highs of 7°C (45°F) and lows of 3°C (37°F) in April.

Does it snow in Iceland in April?

It does snow in Iceland in April, predominantly in the countryside. Rarely does it settle at lower altitudes in April, but nothing is out of the question when it comes to weather in Iceland!

• Find out more about Iceland’s climate with this weather guide
• Not sure when to go to Iceland? Read our ultimate guide to the best times to visit

What are the driving conditions in Iceland in April?

A road trip in Iceland in April has its advantages. As it’s not yet summer, 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 for winter driving. Make yourself aware of road safety precautions before you travel. For example you must drive slowly in cold weather to avoid unseen ice, and turn your headlights on, day and night.

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 , your car rental comes 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.

• Browse winter self-drive tours in Iceland
• Prepare for winter driving in Iceland with this guide

What to pack for a trip to Iceland in April?

Iceland is famous for its ever-changing weather, so we advise that you be as prepared as possible. Since April falls at the end of winter, we recommend bringing warm layers to be ready for the cooler temperatures. That way you can enjoy the natural beauty of the country regardless of the weather.

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

• An insulated and waterproof jacket
• Fleece jumpers
• Lightweight wool underlayers
• Waterproof or winter 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. Also, if you’re keen to experience the famous Blue Lagoon, remember to pack your swimwear and sandals.

What to wear in Iceland in April?

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

In April you can expect cold weather. For that reason, you should dress with warm layers to be ready for anything. That way you can enjoy the beautiful sights without worrying about the temperatures and conditions.

Make sure to be dressed with an insulated winter jacket and warm under layers, as well as good sturdy boots.

What are the daylight hours in Iceland in April?

The hours of daylight in Iceland vary significantly from the beginning to the end of April. You can expect between 13 and 14 hours of daylight in the first few days in April, and 17 hours at the end of the month.

On 1 April in Reykjavík, the sun rises at approximately 6:44 AM and sets at around 8:20 PM. In Akureyri the sun rises at 6:25 AM, and sets at 8:08 PM.

By the end of April, there are more daylight hours in Iceland . In Reykjavík the sunrise takes place at about 4:58 AM and sunset at 9:53 PM. In Akureyri the sunrise occurs at around 4:30 AM and sunset at 9:50 PM.

Can I see the northern lights in Iceland in April?

Yes, it is possible to see the northern lights in April. In order to spot the colours of the aurora borealis, you need a clear dark sky. In winter the nights are longer and darker than in summer. That’s why the best time to visit Iceland for northern lights tours is between October and April.

Due to the unpredictable nature of the northern lights, we unfortunately cannot promise you will see them on our tours. But the aurora is a natural marvel that continues to inspire awe and delight, and is definitely worth putting on your Iceland travel wish list.

• Hunt for the aurora borealis on these Iceland northern lights tours
• Read this guide to the best times and places to see the northern lights in Iceland

How to tour Iceland in April?

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

Road trips in April For a self-guided journey through Iceland, you could opt for a road trip adventure. There are many self-drive tour routes to choose from in April. For shorter stays we recommend driving the Golden Circle in South Iceland or exploring the Snæfellsnes peninsula in the West.

If you have a week or more to spend in Iceland, drive around the Ring Road for a full loop of the country. This way you can visit virtually all the stunning corners of Iceland in one trip!

• View Iceland self-drive tour packages to start planning your road trip
• Find out how long it takes to drive around Iceland

Multi-day tours in April Another way to see Iceland on an independent tour is to base yourself in one or two locations, such as Reykjavík and Akureyri. You can then explore Iceland’s highlights on day trips.

A multi-day tour of Iceland is a great way to combine solo travel with guided excursions. You can fill your itinerary with as many tour-led activities as you wish!

• View multi-day guided tour packages to Iceland
• Discover the best Iceland tours to add to your itinerary with this guide

Privately guided tours in April On the other hand, you might prefer to be accompanied by a local expert throughout your Iceland experience. If so we recommend opting for a privately guided tour to have your own personal guide show you the best attractions. This is one of the most exclusive ways to see Iceland.

• View privately guided tour packages to Iceland
• Read this guide to the best things to do in Iceland on your private tour

Small group tours in April Or you could discover Iceland with like-minded visitors as part of a small group tour . You’ll get to meet people from around the world and learn from the expertise of a local guide, who will show you the most beautiful and fascinating parts of Iceland.

Our small group tours of Iceland in April take you to various locations in the country. You could visit the popular south coast or travel around the Ring Road for an in-depth tour.

• View guided small group tours to Iceland
• Read our top Iceland travel tips for more expert advice

Good to know: Whichever of these travel styles you choose, you’ll get all the signature Nordic Visitor benefits. These include access to our 24/7 helpline, a detailed personal itinerary, helpful travel guide and daily breakfast.

Nordic Visitor will book all your accommodation, and you can add extra nights and activities to your itinerary too.

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

— OTHER DESTINATIONS

See more of northern europe.

• Love the idea of a road trip? Venture to Scotland and Ireland
• Like stunning landscapes and Viking history? Discover Scandinavia
• Love winter scenery? Head to 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.

Book with confidence

• 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.

Our Icelandic phone number is +354 578 20 80

How about a live chat with one of our local travel experts?

Blog posts you might like

Top 10 experiences to have in iceland, what to wear in iceland : your guide, driving iceland's ring road: all you need to know, in brief: spending a day in reykjavík.

Whether you have a single question or a special request, we're here for you.

Iceland in Spring - The Ultimate Travel Guide

Things to Do in Iceland in Spring

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Iceland is a country of incredible natural beauty, and spring is one of the best times to experience it. From the northern lights to the migration of birds, spring in Iceland is a season of renewal, making it an ideal time for visitors to explore all that the country has to offer.

Spring in Iceland typically starts in March and lasts until May. As the winter months come to an end, Iceland begins to thaw out. The snow starts to melt, the ice begins to break up, and the days get longer. For many people, spring is the last chance to witness the northern lights  before the long days of summer take over. These spectacular displays of light can still be seen until around mid-April, making it a perfect time for travelers to rent a car , go out in nature and experience this unique phenomenon.

Another highlight of spring in Iceland is the abundance of wildlife , as many species start to come out of hibernation and migrate back to the island. This includes birds such as puffins, who arrive in Iceland in April and May to breed, as well as seals and whales that can be spotted off the coast.

Spring in Iceland is also a great time for tours and outdoor activities such as hiking, horseback riding, and sightseeing. Many of the country's most famous sights, such as the Golden Circle and the Blue Lagoon , are open year-round and can be enjoyed in the spring without the summer crowds.

Overall, Iceland in spring is a magical time to visit, offering a unique combination of natural beauty, wildlife, and outdoor adventure. Read on to find out everything you need to know about Iceland in spring.

Top Day Trips from Reykjavik

Inside the volcano thrihnukagigur tour with transfer from reykjavik, small group tour of snaefellsnes national park with transfer from reykjavik, small-group golden circle minibus tour from reykjavik with bruarfoss waterfall & kerid crater.

Explore the Golden Circle : The Golden Circle is a popular tourist route that includes several of Iceland's top attractions, such as the Geysir geothermal area , Gullfoss waterfall , and Thingvellir National Park . The route is easy to drive and can be done as a day trip from Reykjavik.

Go whale watching : Spring is a great time to spot whales in Iceland's coastal waters. Several tour operators offer whale-watching excursions from Reykjavik and other coastal towns, such as Husavik . In May, you might also spot puffins!

See the northern lights : While the best time to see the northern lights is in the winter months, it is still possible to see them in the spring. The key is to find a dark location away from the light pollution of cities and towns and to check the aurora forecast before heading out.

Overall, Iceland has plenty to offer in the spring, whether you're interested in nature, culture, or outdoor activities.

There are a number of benefits to visiting Iceland during spring. These include:

This can be an advantage for visitors to Iceland in spring, as it means that popular tourist sites and attractions are less crowded, and accommodation and tour prices may be lower than during the peak season.

It's still a good idea to book accommodation and tours in advance to ensure availability. Visitors to Iceland in spring can generally expect fewer crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere than during the summer months.

However, prices can still vary depending on the time of year, the specific accommodation and tour operators, and how far in advance you book. It's always a good idea to compare prices and book early to get the best deals.

Additionally, some airlines may offer cheaper flights during the off-peak season, which can help reduce the overall cost of a trip to Iceland in spring.

Additionally, the landscapes in Iceland are particularly stunning during spring, with the snow and ice starting to melt and the countryside coming to life with vibrant green colors. This can make for some truly breathtaking photography opportunities.

However, it's important to note that the weather in Iceland can be unpredictable, and it's always a good idea to come prepared with warm and waterproof clothing, as well as protective gear for your camera equipment. Check out this article to read more about photography in Iceland .

Top Photo Tours

Small-group 3-hour early morning ice caving tour at vatnajokull glacier with photo package, small-group 4-hour northern lights tour with expert aurora hunter and photographer, beautiful photography day tour at snaefellsnes peninsula with transfer from reykjavik.

Some of the most popular waterfalls in Iceland, such as Gullfoss and Skogafoss , can be particularly impressive during the spring months, with the increased water flow creating a powerful and thundering cascade. Other waterfalls, such as Seljalandsfoss and Gluggafoss , can also be particularly beautiful during the spring months, as the surrounding countryside comes to life with vibrant green colors.

Remember to account for the unpredictability of the Icelandic weather and  check the weather and road conditions before setting out on any trips to see waterfalls or other natural attractions. It's also essential to take care when visiting waterfalls, as the ground around them can be slippery and dangerous, especially during periods of heavy rain or snowmelt.

It's important to note that even some lower-altitude roads may still be closed or have restricted access during the spring months, especially in the early part of the season. Visitors should always check road conditions before setting out on any trips and pay attention to any road closures or warnings issued by Icelandic authorities.

If you plan to visit the highlands of Iceland during your trip, it's best to plan your visit for the summer months when the roads are open and conditions are generally more favorable for travel.

Visitors to Iceland in spring should pack warm and waterproof clothing, as well as sturdy hiking boots, a hat, gloves, and a scarf. It's also a good idea to dress in layers so that you can adjust your clothing according to the temperature and weather conditions.

While the weather in Iceland can be unpredictable at any time of the year, spring is generally a good time to visit, as the days are longer and the weather is milder than it is in the winter.

In March, the average temperature in Reykjavik is around 33°F (1°C), with highs reaching up to around 39°F (4°C).

April is slightly warmer, with average temperatures ranging from 36°F to 43°F (2°C to 6°C).

May is the mildest month of spring, with temperatures averaging around 45°F (7°C).

Top Sightseeing Tours

2 day ice cave tour with south coast waterfalls & jokulsarlon glacier lagoon.

• Warm layers: Bring warm clothing that can be layered, including a waterproof and windproof jacket, a warm sweater or fleece, and a thermal base layer.
• Waterproof and sturdy shoes: Pack sturdy hiking boots or shoes that can handle uneven terrain and protect your feet from the elements.
• Accessories: Bring a warm hat, gloves, and scarf to protect your head, hands, and neck from the cold.
• Sunglasses: Bring sunglasses to protect your eyes from the bright sunlight, which can be intense in Iceland, especially during the spring.
• Camera equipment: Bring your camera and any necessary equipment to capture Iceland's stunning natural landscapes and wildlife.
• Swimwear: Pack swimwear if you plan to visit any geothermal pools or hot springs.
• Travel adapter: Bring a travel adapter if necessary to charge your electronics in Iceland.

Check road conditions: Always check road conditions before setting out on any trips, and be prepared to adjust your plans if necessary. The Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration (IRCA) provides up-to-date information on road conditions across the country.

Rent a 4x4 vehicle: If you plan to travel on unpaved or gravel roads, it's recommended to rent a 4x4 vehicle with high clearance. These vehicles are better suited for the challenging terrain in Iceland and can provide greater safety and stability.

Drive with caution: Exercise caution when driving on gravel roads, especially during wet or icy conditions. Reduce your speed and keep a safe distance from other vehicles.

Watch for wildlife: Iceland is home to a variety of wildlife, including roaming sheep, reindeer, and Arctic foxes. Be alert for animals on or near the road, especially in rural areas.

Carry emergency supplies: Always carry emergency supplies in your vehicle, including warm clothing, food and water, and a first aid kit.

Pay attention to weather forecasts: Pay attention to weather forecasts and be prepared to adjust your plans based on changing weather conditions.

Drive during daylight hours: During the spring, the days are longer, and there is more daylight, making it easier to see and navigate the roads. Try to plan your driving for daylight hours whenever possible. Overall, these vacation packages in Iceland offer a great way to experience the country's natural beauty, wildlife, and culture, with a range of activities and options to suit all interests and budgets.

Top Self Drive Tours in Iceland

10-day self-drive tour of the complete ring road of iceland with top attractions & snaefellsnes, best 1-week summer self-drive tour of the ring road of iceland & golden circle, best 7-day northern lights self drive tour through south iceland to jokulsarlon ice cave.

If you're wondering how spring in Iceland compares to other seasons, we have compared them one by one to better understand visiting the country during different times of the year.

Spring, which runs from March to May, is a time of renewal in Iceland. The days start to get longer, the snow and ice begin to melt, and the countryside comes to life with vibrant green colors. Visitors to Iceland in spring can see an abundance of wildlife, including puffins, whales, and seals. There's even a possibility to witness the northern lights until around mid-April.

Summer, which runs from June to August, is more crowded than spring. The days are very long, with nearly 24 hours of daylight, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and sightseeing. The weather is generally warmer than spring, with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 68°F on good days (10°C to 20°C), and the countryside is bursting with wildflowers and lush greenery.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Iceland depends on your personal preferences and what you want to experience during your trip. If you prefer fewer crowds and a more peaceful atmosphere, spring may be the best choice for you. If you want to enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities and experience the midnight sun , then summer may be the best time to visit.

Visitors to Iceland in winter can witness the northern lights, go snowmobiling or dog sledding , and soak in geothermal hot springs. Ice cave tours , one of the most popular activities in Iceland, are mostly available during winter. On the other hand, Jokulsarlon boat tours start operations in May.

However, the weather during winter can be extreme, with strong winds and temperatures often dropping below freezing, and the country experiences only a few hours of daylight each day.

Spring, on the other hand, is when the Icelandic countryside comes to life with vibrant green colors. During spring, many migrating animals, such as whales and birds, return to Iceland and give life to its nature.

The weather can still be cool and unpredictable, but it's generally milder than in winter, and visitors can enjoy a wider range of outdoor activities.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Iceland depends on what you want to experience during your trip. If you want to witness the northern lights and enjoy winter sports and activities, then winter may be the best time to visit. However, if you want to experience the country coming to life after the winter months, see wildlife, and enjoy a wider range of outdoor activities with smaller crowds, then spring may be the best time for your visit.

Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, and sightseeing, as well as cultural events like the Iceland Airwaves music festival. The weather in the fall is cool, with temperatures ranging from 41°F to 50°F (5°C to 10°C), similar to spring.

Spring, which runs from March to May, is also a time of change in Iceland, but in the opposite direction. The country comes to life after the winter months, with vibrant green colors and wildlife returning to the island. Visitors can see puffins, whales, and seals.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Iceland depends on your preferences and what you want to experience during your trip. If you're interested in autumnal landscapes and cultural events, then fall may be the best time to visit. If you want to see wildlife and witness the land coming to life after winter, then spring may be the best time to visit.

Top Hot Spring Tours in Iceland

The weather in Iceland in spring can be quite mild, with temperatures ranging from 32°F to 50°F ( 0°C to 10°C). However, it can still be unpredictable, with occasional snow and rain, so it's best to come prepared with warm clothing.

Iceland can still be quite cold in April, but it's not as cold as it is during the winter months. The average temperature in Reykjavik in April is around 39°F (4°C), but it can vary depending on the day and the location in the country.

Visitors to Iceland in April should pack warm and waterproof clothing, as well as sturdy hiking boots, a hat, gloves, and a scarf. It's also a good idea to dress in layers so that you can adjust your clothing according to the temperature and weather conditions.

While the weather in Iceland can be unpredictable at any time of the year, April is generally a good time to visit, as the days are longer and the weather is milder than it is in the winter.

Iceland can still be cool in May, but it's generally a little warmer than it is in April. The average temperature in Reykjavik in May is around 45°F (7°C), but temperatures can vary depending on the location in the country.

Visitors to Iceland in May should still pack warm and waterproof clothing, as well as sturdy hiking boots, a hat, gloves, and a scarf. It's also a good idea to dress in layers so that you can adjust your clothing according to the temperature and weather conditions.

May is a good time to visit Iceland, as the days are long, with around 18-19 hours of daylight, making it a great time to explore the country's stunning natural landscapes.

Yes, you can go ice-caving in Iceland during spring, but the conditions and availability of ice caves can vary depending on the specific location and time of year, as they are closed for tour in May. However, during March and April, most natural ice caves are still open for guided tours, such as this ice cave tour in Vatnajokull glacier .

Yes, you can still see the northern lights in Iceland during the beginning of spring, although the best time to see them is from September to mid-April when the sky is consistently dark.

In spring, visitors to Iceland can see migrational birds return to the country for breeding and nesting. These include the adorable puffins, Arctic terns, golden plovers, oystercatchers, and snipes. In the ocean, you will be able to spot seals and various species of whales.

Iceland is generally less crowded in spring than in summer, which makes it a good time to visit if you want to avoid crowds at popular destinations.

Yes, the main roads are open year-round, although some secondary roads may still be closed due to snow and ice, especially in the hard-to-reach Highlands of Iceland .

While it's possible to go to the highlands in Iceland in spring, many of the highland roads don't open until June, so it's important to check road conditions before planning a trip.

In March, the daylight hours in Iceland are around 12 hours per day, and by May, they are around 18-19 hours per day. This means that visitors have plenty of daylight to explore and enjoy the country's stunning natural landscapes.

Yes, there are several festivals and events in Iceland in spring, including the Reykjavik Folk Festival, which takes place in early April, and the First Day of Summer celebration, which is a public holiday in Iceland that falls on the first Thursday after April 18th.

The best way to travel around Iceland in spring is by car, as this gives visitors the flexibility to explore the country's many sights and attractions at their own pace. You can easily pick up your rental car at Keflavik Airport , and have it with you from the start of your journey in Iceland. It's important to note that road conditions can be challenging in some parts of the country, so it's essential to have a reliable vehicle and to check road conditions before setting out.

Visitors to Iceland in spring should pack warm and waterproof clothing, as well as sturdy hiking boots, a hat, gloves, and a scarf. It's also a good idea to bring a swimsuit for a dip in one of Iceland's many hot springs or geothermal pools. If you prefer to pack light, you can go shopping for warm clothes at the many boutique stores located on Laugavegur street  in downtown Reykjavik.

Visitors to Iceland in spring should be aware that weather conditions can be unpredictable, and sudden changes in weather can occur. It's essential to check weather and road conditions before setting out on any trips. Make sure that you have the necessary gear and clothing to stay warm and dry in case of inclement weather.

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Whether you choose to explore Iceland's stunning landscapes, relax in geothermal pools, attend cultural events, or simply take in the country's natural wonders, Iceland in spring has it all. With fewer crowds and the promise of longer days, visitors can immerse themselves in all that Iceland has to offer during this enchanting season.

So pack your bags and prepare to embark on a journey to one of the world's unique and beautiful destinations, Iceland, in spring awaits!

Are you planning to visit Iceland next spring? What are you most looking forward to? If you have visited Iceland during spring, please tell us your experience in the comments below.

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Tourists watch volcano erupt from spa as popular Iceland attraction reopens

The popular Blue Lagoon geothermal spa, one of Iceland ’s biggest tourist attractions in the country's southwest, was reopened Sunday after authorities said a nearby volcano had stabilized after erupting four days earlier.

Oddný Arnarsdóttir, the head of Visit Iceland, said authorities had redone the security zones in the area and based on that the lagoon was safe to reopen for tourists. “Blue Lagoon opened again today," she said.

Hundreds of tourists bathed in the lagoon, with the view of the erupting crater in the background. Cameron and Natalie Pacileo, tourists from North Carolina, said they were delighted to see the volcano from the lagoon.

“It’s pretty wild. It’s a beautiful view, and nice that they reopened so we can experience it," said Natalie Pacileo.

The eruption Wednesday was the fifth and most powerful since the volcanic system reawakened in December after 800 years, gushing record levels of lava as its fissure grew to 3.5 kilometers (2.1 miles) in length.

The activity last week once again threatened Grindavik, a coastal town of 3,800 people, and led to the evacuation of the geothermal spa.

Grindavik, which is about 50 kilometers (30 miles) southwest of Iceland’s capital, Reykjavik , has been threatened since a swarm of earthquakes in November forced an evacuation in advance of the initial December 18 eruption. A subsequent eruption consumed several buildings.

Such volcanic activity has disrupted district heating, closed key roads and razed several homes in the fishing town of Grindavik, to which only a few residents have returned since an evacuation in late 2023.

Iceland’s civil defence was put on high alert, police said, and authorities again ordered an evacuation of Grindavik.

To prevent further damage, man-made barriers have been built to steer lava away from infrastructure including the Svartsengi geothermal power plant, the Blue Lagoon spa and Grindavik.

Iceland, which sits above a volcanic hot spot in the North Atlantic, sees regular eruptions. The most disruptive in recent times was the 2010 eruption of the Eyjafjallajokull volcano, which spewed huge clouds of ash into the atmosphere and led to widespread airspace closures over Europe .

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