Iceland in August: How to Get the Most Out of Summer
August is one of Iceland’s best months for warm summer weather and plenty of sunshine. This month is also the perfect time to set out on a summer road trip around the country!
You’ll discover fun activities like whale watching, road trips, and festivals in Iceland in August, all of which are even better explored by rental car. If that sounds like a good time—and trust us, it is—then read on to discover why Iceland in August is so magical and how to get the most out of your trip to Iceland in summer!
Weather in Iceland in August
If you and cold weather simply don’t mix, August is the perfect time to visit Iceland!
The average temperature in Iceland in August hovers around 57°F for a high and a low of 48°F. This is the case for most of the country, with just a few degrees of variation depending on if you’re headed further north or south.
Average rainfall caps at around 2.7 inches in total. It rains an average of 11 days in August.
The weather in Iceland in August also means that there will be long daylight hours. You can expect anywhere from 16 to 17 hours of sunshine. This is why this time of year is known as the Midnight Sun because the sun never truly sets! That also means that you’ll have plenty of time to explore the country.
Can you see the northern lights in Iceland in August?
No, you can’t see the northern lights in Iceland in August. A twilight glow will be on the horizon, even in the wee hours of the morning.
There’s an average of 16-17 hours of daylight during the month of August in Iceland. Sorry, northern lights hunters! This isn’t the month to search for them unfortunately.
If you’re dying to catch a glimpse of the aurora borealis, you’ll need to come back sometime between October and early April.
What to pack for Iceland in August
If you’re planning a summer trip to Iceland, you might be wondering, “What should I pack for Iceland in August?”
Iceland is a destination that requires more technical clothing than you might expect due to the weather and frequent precipitation.
Layers are the name of the game for Iceland in August! Nights are still fairly chilly, but midday can quickly become t-shirt weather. Bring clothing items that you can layer to help keep you happy and your body temperature well-regulated.
Here’s what to pack for a trip to Iceland in August…
- Hiking boots : Even better if they’re waterproof! This is great for both rainfall and visiting slippery areas like waterfalls.
- Swimsuit : Bring your swimsuit so you don’t miss any opportunities to swim in all those hot springs, community pools, or the Blue Lagoon!
- Wind Breaker
- Rain Jacket
Best rental cars for Iceland in August: How to get a cheap rental car in the peak season?
August is peak tourist season in Iceland, which means it can be difficult to find a cheap rental car.
That’s where Firefly Iceland Car Rentals comes in! They offer very inexpensive rentals at around $35 USD per day for a standard, small vehicle and $45 USD per day for a 4×4.
First, you’ll need to consider how many people you’ll be traveling with, how much luggage you’ll be driving around with, and where you want to go.
All of Iceland’s roads, including the F-roads that lead into the interior, should be open in August! You’ll need to rent a 4×4 car if you’re planning on visiting any of the famous destinations in Iceland’s Central Highlands, like Landmannalaugar.
If you’re simply planning to traverse the Ring Road and stick to the beaten trail, a standard car will do just fine!
What to do in Iceland in August: Best things to do
Visiting Iceland in August means it’s time to strap on your hiking boots, book a rental car, and seek out the country’s incredible nature! It’s also prime time for whale watching, summer festivals, and road-tripping. Here’s what to do in Iceland in August…
Exploring Iceland’s Natural Wonders
While you plan your trip to Iceland in August, consider exploring the island’s natural wonders. One must-visit is the Golden Circle . This popular route includes Thingvellir National Park, where you can witness the rift between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates, the erupting geysers at Haukadalur, and the powerful Gullfoss waterfall.
Another highlight is the Glacier Lagoon (Jökulsárlón) located in the southeast of Iceland. The lagoon is filled with icebergs from the surrounding Breiðamerkurjökull Glacier, creating a stunning and serene landscape.
August might be the best month in Iceland for hiking. Not only can you access the usual trails, but you can also discover trails that are hidden under snow and ice for most of the year. Strap on your hiking boots and get to explore famous sights like Iceland’s mountains or otherworldly basalt columns .
Go Whale Watching
August in Iceland is the best time of year for whale watching! While whales technically live off the coast year-round, migratory whales come back to Icelandic waters in the month of May. June to August are Iceland’s prime whale watching months to feed and mate. You can hop on whale watching tours around the country!
Enjoy Summer Festivals in Iceland
Summer is festival season in Iceland! You’ll find everything from fish fry’s to music festivals. Here are some of the fun events taking place in Iceland in August…
■ Menningarnótt : Culture Night, or Menningarnótt, kicks off with the Reykjavik Marathon in the morning and continues well into the evening with a grand finale of fireworks. You’ll find food, live music, markets, and more.
■ Hinsegin Dagar : The Reykjavik Pride Festival, known in Icelandic as Hinsegin Dagar, is held for one week in August in the capital city! You’ll discover fun events and parades during this time.
■ Great Fish Day : This festival is held on one of the first Saturdays in August in Dalvíkurbyggð, a tiny village in far Northern Iceland. All-you-can-eat fish for free? Count us in! There are also art exhibitions and live music.
■ Innipúkinn : One of Iceland’s largest music festivals, Innipukinn takes place in downtown Reykjavik and features various genres of live music, DJs, and markets.
Drive the Ring Road (Route 1)
While you can drive on Iceland’s Ring Road at any time of year, August is one of the best months to do so. This circular highway that circumnavigates the island won’t have any snow or ice to deal with in August, although you might come across traffic from other adventurous travelers! Some of the most popular destinations by car along the Ring Road include Iceland’s South Coast, which highlights natural features like Reynisfjara Beach , and Eastern Iceland, with its fjords and national parks.
If you’re looking for another short road trip that’s close to Reykjavik, head for the Golden Circle ! While not technically along the Ring Road, this is a great alternative for a shorter road trip. You’ll discover epic geysers, Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss Falls, and more, all with a standard car.
Visit Iceland’s Remote Corners with a 4×4 Vehicle
Renting a 4×4 vehicle is a great idea if you’re planning to explore Iceland’s off-the-beaten-path locations. A lot of these destinations actually require a 4×4 by law. If you think you might want to explore areas like this, opt for renting a 4WD car so you can get there safely and legally.
If you want to get off the beaten path, consider visiting North Iceland . This region is known for its dramatic landscapes and fewer tourists. Highlights include the picturesque town of Akureyri, the geothermal area of Mývatn, and the majestic waterfall Dettifoss.
For a truly unique experience, take a trip to the Westman Islands (Vestmannaeyjar). This archipelago off the south coast of Iceland is famous for its volcanic activity, puffin colonies, and the annual Þjóðhátíð festival, a weekend-long celebration featuring music, fireworks, and bonfires.
Road Trip the Icelandic Highlands
Smack dab in the middle of Iceland are the remote and rugged Highlands. This area is home to a region called Landmannalaugar , which is one of Iceland’s most popular hiking destinations and hides both hot springs and stunning views of rainbow mineral deposits. You’ll need a 4×4 vehicle to drive here!
Experience The Magic of Iceland’s Natural Light
One of the unique features of visiting Iceland in August is experiencing the 16 hours of daylight . This extended daylight period, often referred to as the Midnight Sun , allows you to make the most of your days exploring the incredible landscapes.
Although you won’t see the northern lights in Iceland in August , the lingering twilight and extended sunsets provide a magical atmosphere for photography and outdoor activities.
Tips for Visiting Iceland in August
Keep in mind that August is one of the busiest months in Iceland. This is travel high season through and through, and you’ll need to book everything, from car rentals to accommodation, well in advance!
Some travelers book up to a year prior for a vacation in August, but a good rule of thumb is at least 3 months ahead of time.
This also goes for restaurants in popular cities like Reykjavik where you book online a few weeks in advance of your trip.
Unlike other times of the year, safety considerations aren’t as dire in Iceland in August. Still, always follow signage, check road conditions via road.is before you head out, and keep your eye on the weather. Temperatures can turn to freezing, even in the summer months!
August in Iceland provides a short window of summer paradise in this otherwise icy country. This Goldilocks, sweet spot of beautiful weather, warm temperatures, and fun festivals means that you’ll be able to explore Iceland from top to bottom, without having to worry about frigid weather conditions.
If you’re sold on visiting Iceland in August, be sure to book your rental car through Firefly Iceland Car Rentals ! With a perfect combination of reliable vehicles and super low prices, this is your best bet for exploring Iceland by car.
Be sure to share this article on social media if you find it useful or interesting. Who knows, maybe you’ll even inspire your friends to come with you on a road trip around Iceland!
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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 20 years of age to drive this vehicle.
Additional Features
- 4 Wheel Drive
- 116 C0 2 g/km
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VW Golf or similar | Automatic | 2020-2021 Model (CDAX)
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- 2 Large Bags
This vehicle is NOT allowed in the highland F-roads. You must be 20 years of age to drive this vehicle.
- 1 Small Bag
- 2 Large, 1 Small
- 138 cc
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VW Golf or similar | Manual | 2020-2021 Model (CDMX)
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- Front Wheel Drive
- 125 C0 2 g/km
VW Polo or similar| Manual | 2020-2021 Model (EDMX)
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VW Tiguan or similar | Automatic | 4×4 | 2020-2021 Model (IFAX)
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Suitable for the highland F-roads. Please read Terms & Conditions. You must be 23 years of age to drive this vehicle.
VW Up or similar | Manual | 2020-2021 Model (MBMX)
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- 4 Passengers
- Petrol or Diesel
- 95 C0 2 g/km
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- Things to do
Iceland in August: Things to See & Do
7 minute read
By Camila Contreras-Langlois
12 February 2024
Journey to Iceland in August to have a memorable summer trip to the Land of Fire and Ice. At this time of year, you could enjoy some of the warmest days of the year and long daylight hours to explore further. The natural landscape will be as magnificent as ever and there will be plenty of thrilling excursions to try and sights to visit.
Prepare for your August vacation with this local experts’ guide. You’ll find lists of activities to try and places to see, useful weather and packing guides, and more.
- Explore our Iceland summer packages .
- Related: Iceland in summer: must sees and must dos .
Should you visit Iceland in August?
Yes! You won’t be disappointed to be visiting Iceland in August.
In fact, you may find it is one of the best months of the year for an Icelandic adventure. There is a variety of festivals happening around the country that you could join. Whale watching and snowmobiling are just some of the activities you could get up to in August.
Just at the cusp of the shoulder season, August is one of these months that’s the best of both worlds. The change toward autumn means you may have a chance to spot the Northern Lights while also benefiting from long days of exploration.
And expect the natural scenery to be as stunning as ever. Admire the cascading waterfalls, explore national parks with glaciers and volcanic peaks, and sail along the rugged coastline.
Want to know the top reasons to visit Iceland in August? Look no further!
- Good weather to go camping, walking or sailing
- A full calendar of cultural events
- Long hours of daylight with the potential to glimpse at the Northern Lights
- Ideal conditions for road trips
- A range of outdoor activities are available
What to expect of Iceland in August?
June, July, and August are the warmest months of the year in Iceland. For that reason, you’ll enjoy stable weather and average temperatures between 8°C (46°F) and 15°C (59°F).
Expect some wind and not too much rain if you’re lucky. You may even look forward to a mild heatwave with temperatures rising into the low 20s (68°F).
- Related: Complete guide to Iceland .
Daylight hours
On average, you can expect around 16 hours of daylight in August in Iceland. Having passed the summer solstice in late June, August slowly loses daylight.
Earlier in the month, the sun rises around 4.30 a.m. and sets by 10.20 p.m. By the end of the month, there is daylight between 6 a.m. and 8.45 p.m.
If you’d like to experience the famous midnight sun, whereby the sun barely sets over the horizon, visit in June or July .
Can I see the Northern Lights in Iceland in August?
The change in daylight hours at this time of year is what may allow you to catch sight of the famous Aurora Borealis. Solar activity happens all year long, but you need proper darkness to be able to spot it in the sky.
From August, the nights are longer and you may be able to witness the Northern Lights. If this is the main reason for your trip to Iceland, we recommend you visit Iceland in winter for the best chances of sightings.
- Check out Northern Lights packages in Iceland .
- Related: Your guide to the Northern Lights in Iceland .
Your August packing guide
Have you ever heard “There is no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing”? It’s a famous saying in the Nordic countries. Pack with this philosophy in mind and you’ll be ready for anything. Enjoy all the amazing adventures you have planned without worrying about the weather.
Here is a list of packing essentials for your trip to Iceland in August:
- Short-sleeved shirts and lightweight layers
- Long pants and shorts
- Fleeces or lightweight wool sweaters
- A waterproof and windproof jacket (or shell layers)
- A pair of waterproof trousers
- Gloves, scarf, and warm hat
- Cap, sunglasses, and sunscreen
- Sturdy walking or hiking boots
- Thermal underwear and socks
- Binoculars for wildlife watchers
- Swimwear, flip flops, and a towel to go for a dip
We especially recommend layers at this time of year to allow you to adapt to the day’s weather as it can change in an instant.
- Look up our camping trips in Iceland .
Top things to do in Iceland in August
August is a great time to travel to Iceland because so many remote corners are accessible, and activities are available.
Here are the best things you could get up to in August:
- Take a thrilling road trip
- Hike in the national parks
- Warm up in hot springs
- Delve inside a volcano
- Snowmobile atop glaciers
- Look out for whales and puffins
- Admire glittering icebergs
- Marvel at shiny waterfalls
- Kayak or sail on a glacier lagoon
- Attend a vibrant festival
- Try Icelandic cuisine
- Discover all the optional activities you could add to your Iceland trip .
Events and festivals in Iceland in August
Visiting Iceland in August and want to celebrate with the locals? It is one of the hottest months of the year in terms of cultural events and festivals.
The first weekend of August is a bank holiday, Verslunarmannahelgi. You’ll probably find enticing events to join during these 3 days.
Þjóðhátíð is one of the largest festivals in Iceland and is hosted on the Westman Islands. It’s a glorious weekend filled with Icelandic music, seaside views, fireworks, bonfires, and festivities.
Because of the importance of fishing, we also have to mention “Great Fish Day” or Fiskidagurinn mikli. This celebration of fisherfolk with seafood feasts is hosted in Dalvík, near Akureyri in North Iceland.
Later in the month, Reykjavík is the center of much action. It hosts the Reykjavík Marathon, Culture Night, Pride, Jazz Festival, and more.
Best things to see in Iceland in August
You know the best things to do and events to attend. Now, how about the best locations to tour and places to visit in Iceland in August? Add the following to your summer bucket list for a memorable August vacation.
1. Reykjavík
Reykjavík , the vibrant capital of Iceland, is ideal for a northern city break.
We recommend visiting attractions like the interactive Perlan and the Árbær Open Air Museum. You could also attend festivals we’ve previously mentioned and taste Icelandic cuisine at local restaurants.
For majestic views, go hike the nearby Mount Esja. Immerse yourself in peaceful nature on Viðey Island. Go whale watching on a cruise from the city’s harbor. Or visit one of the many geothermally heated swimming pools to warm up.
There is plenty to do in the city itself, but top Icelandic attractions are also on your doorstep, including the famous Golden Circle.
- Dive into these summer multi-day tours from Reykjavík .
- Related: Top museums in Reykjavík .
2. Golden Circle
Speaking of the Golden Circle route , it is a must-see during your Icelandic travels. Whether you’re spending a few days in Reykjavík or touring the Ring Road, it’s easily done in a day. You could drive it or join a guided tour to benefit from the knowledge of a local.
The main attractions of this scenic route are Gullfoss waterfall, Geysir and Strokkur geysers, and the breathtaking Þingvellir National Park. But there’s much more to this circuit, including high mountain passes, volcanic craters, and cute villages.
- Visit top attractions on a summer Golden Circle tour .
- Related: Complete guide to the Golden Circle .
3. Vatnajökull National Park
There are 3 national parks in Iceland and if you’re circling the Ring Road, you should spend some time in Vatnajökull. Here you’ll find some stunning hiking trails, even more waterfalls, and a vast array of activities to enjoy.
The landscape here is dominated by the Vatnajökull glacier, with snowy peaks, ice caves , and glacial lagoons. In fact, you won’t want to miss the mythical Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon on the south coast. You could witness bobbing icebergs and even spot some seals.
- Watch icebergs drift out to sea at Jökulsárlón on a guided group tour .
- Related: Guide to the top 12 waterfalls in Iceland .
Across the road, admire the contrasting landscape of Diamond Beach where chunks of shining ice lie on the black sand dunes.
4. The highlands
In August, you could take an adventure into the rugged landscape of the central highlands. This region of Iceland is only accessible in summer and August is a great time to explore it.
You’ll want to make sure you have a 4-wheel drive to take on the rough stretches of road that lead into the mountains. Once you reach the picturesque huts, you’ll be rewarded with colorful mountains and plenty of hiking possibilities.
The F-roads into the highlands are open depending on the weather. For that reason, you’ll want to keep an eye out for road conditions.
5. North Iceland
On a road trip around the Ring Road, circling the island, you’ll pass through North Iceland . This region is worth the visit and you could stop for a few days to take full advantage of it.
Here are a few places you could see during your visit:
- Akureyri , the 'Capital of the North' and largest town of the region
- Húsavík , along the Skjálfandi bay, for the best place to whale watch
- Lake Mývat n, for otherworldly landscapes
- Goðafoss and Dettifoss , the most famous waterfalls of North Iceland
- Ásbyrgi , to experience the lush, sheltered forest and waterfalls of this canyon
A circuit that you could follow to hit many of the above sites is the Diamond Circle. August is an ideal time to explore these attractions due to the long days of summer. You’ll find plenty of wildlife to spot, sea cliff walks to take, and geothermal or hot springs to visit.
- Explore the north with these Iceland Ring Road tours .
- Related: Driving Iceland’s Ring Road – ultimate guide .
6. Westfjords
August is a great time to head off the beaten path. We’ve mentioned the highlands and now it’s time for the wondrous Westfjords .
What can you expect here? Hiking trails along the coast, sweeping sea views, an array of wildlife, tranquil fishing villages, and iconic Icelandic natural wonders.
Among other things, you could visit a red sand beach at Rauðisandur , traipse through the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, see puffins at the Látrabjarg cliffs , and admire the Dynjandi waterfall .
For a peaceful vacation immersed in nature, you’ll want to add this north-west peninsula to your bucket list for your next summer vacation.
- Find out more about this stunning region with this guide to the Westfjords .
7. Snæfellsnes peninsula
The beauty of the Snæfellsnes peninsula is that it has the feel of being remote while also being near enough Reykjavík. You’ll reach this western peninsula within 2 hours’ drive from the capital.
Then you can look forward to gems that are reminiscent of the wider island. In fact, Snæfellsnes is often called 'Iceland in miniature' so it’s the perfect place to get a taster of Iceland. Especially if you’re not driving the whole Ring Road on this trip.
You’ll still be able to enjoy the lava fields covered in moss, rugged sea cliffs, steep mountains, and misty waterfalls of Iceland.
When you’re visiting the peninsula, drive to the far end and explore the Snæfellsjökull National Park . Here you’ll find the most famous sight of the area, Kirkjufell mountain , as well as gems such as Djúpalónssandur beach and the Arnarstapi cliffs.
- Check out these summer self-drive tours of Iceland .
8. Reykjanes peninsula
Reykjanes is the south-east peninsula jutting into the ocean below Reykjavík. This is where you’re likely to arrive in Iceland. Instead of bypassing it to head to the capital and beyond, we recommend adding it to your itinerary.
Although understated, there are many top highlights located here. Its location atop the Mid-Atlantic Ridge tectonic plate boundary, gives Reykjanes its stark look of volcanoes, peaks, and dark lava fields.
Here you could cross the famous Bridge Between Continents to experience this ridge or even visit Iceland’s newest volcano, Fagradalsfjall . You’ll find it in the Geldingadalur valley near the fishing town of Grindavík. The town is lovely for a wander and the volcano for a memorable and scenic hike.
Last but not least, we can’t forget to mention the Blue Lagoon . This geothermal spa is amongst the most popular attractions in Iceland. It is located near the airport and so is very accessible, especially at the beginning or end of your vacation.
- Related: Iceland volcano eruption – your guide to Fagradalsfjall .
Planning your trip to Iceland in August
Whatever you dream of visiting and doing in Iceland, August is a fantastic month for your vacation. You’ll find a range of ways to travel in Iceland too, including camping trips , multi-day breaks , self-drive tours , and privately guided packages .
For a personalized experience created by locals who know Iceland inside out, book with Iceland Tours. Our travel experts are based in Reykjavík and can help make your dream vacation a reality.
Find your favorite itinerary amongst our Iceland travel packages and customize it with activities depending on your budget. By booking with a local company, you’ll have peace of mind as we support you before, during, and even after your tour.
Your summer vacation to Iceland awaits!
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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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