Thinking about planning the trip of a lifetime to Iceland in August?
This late summer month is an incredible time to visit the land of fire and ice.
But before you start packing your bags – let’s cover everything you need to know to plan the perfect trip.
If you’re wondering “What is Iceland like in August?” Consider this your essential guide.
From packing to weather to things to do, I’ve got you covered!
Let’s get into it!
Is August A Good Time To Visit Iceland?
If you’re thinking about whether or not you should visit Iceland in August, the answer is a resounding YES.
Here are some of the biggest pros of planning an August trip to Iceland.
Pros
Accessibility: ALL areas are fair game once again! You are free to travel about the whole country: Reykjavík, Golden Circle, Ring Road, Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Westfjords, and the Highlands. This is such an amazing time to travel to Iceland, roam free, and explore ALL THE THINGS before things close down again in the fall.
Better weather conditions: You won’t have to deal with crazy weather or bad road conditions. While the weather in Iceland is always kind of a guessing game, in August, you’re usually on the safe side. Compared to the rest of the year, there’s far more sun and (usually) less rain. And you don’t have to worry about getting stuck in a snow or hailstorm. This also means that driving is a breeze!
Daylight hours in Iceland in August: There are still plenty of daylight hours for exploring. More on that in a bit…
Natural beauty: Iceland’s natural beauty is in full force. Sunny temperatures, lots of daylight, lush green pastures, and animals out to play – there’s a lot to love about Iceland in August.
Cons
Crowds and prices: Remember the downside of this is that everyone knows how amazing summer in Iceland is, so August is still peak tourist season. Places are busier, hotels are more booked up, and it’s more expensive to rent things and take tours.
You might not see puffins: If seeing puffins is high on your Iceland bucket list, keep in mind that they usually leave around the middle to end of August. So if puffin spotting is a priority for your trip, it’s best to visit earlier in the month.
Overall, Iceland in August is a fantastic time to visit, as long as you don’t mind sharing the beauty with other travelers!
Pssst. If you want to get off the beaten path, ditch the tourist traps, and discover well-kept secrets and hidden gems in Iceland…I wrote my 👉 Iceland Travel Map & Guide for you!
Iceland Daylight Hours in August
August in Iceland is a magical month, and it’s kind of the sweet spot when it comes to daylight hours!
They’re still long, but the nights are starting to get a little darker.
You’ve got the best of both worlds – lots of time to explore during the day, but just enough darkness to still get some sleep!
At the beginning of August, you’ve got 18 hours of daylight, and by the end of the month, that number decreases to 16.
Sunrise is usually at 4:30 A.M. and sunset at around 10:30 P.M.
Weather in Iceland in August
August in Iceland is an absolutely beautiful time to visit, with pleasant temperatures, lush green landscapes, and abundant wildlife.
The weather is usually sunny, but it’s still important to be prepared for anything – Icelandic weather can be unpredictable!
So pack your layers and a weatherproof shell to make sure you’re ready for any weather conditions during your August visit to Iceland.
Iceland weather at the end of August does start getting cooler as it transitions to autumn.
Daylight hours start to decrease and evenings become chillier. However, you still have plenty of time to explore.
Average Temperatures
When it comes to average temperatures in Iceland during August, you can expect temperatures ranging from 50 to 60° Fahrenheit (10 to 15° Celsius).
As you can see, while it’s on the warmer side, it’s still not HOT. So don’t expect tropical weather or scorching heat!
Can You See The Northern Lights In August?
Depending on when you visit Iceland in August, it might be possible to spot the Northern Lights.
In late August, the Northern Lights start coming back! It’s never guaranteed that you’re going to see them, but this is when it gets dark enough at night for the lights to start making an appearance.
For the best bet on seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland, September through March is the ideal time to visit.
Driving in Iceland in August
If you’re planning a road trip in Iceland in August, you’re in luck.
Driving at this time is easy-peasy.
All of the roads are open, everyone is out enjoying the weather, and even the Highlands are accessible for travelers.
For the most part, you can rent a 2WD vehicle if you’re sticking to the main roads.
However, if you’re planning on traveling into the Highlands, and tackling the F-Roads, you’ll need a 4WD vehicle.
For the ultimate Iceland experience, I highly recommend renting a 4WD so you can explore the Highlands and some of the country’s most remote and unforgettable landscapes.
August is one of the best times to take advantage of it!
And I know…you might be thinking that renting a 4WD can be expensive, but don’t you worry, I’ve got your back!
💥 Blue Car Rental is offering a special discount. Get 5% off your rental price automatically applied at checkout when you use my 👉 VIP LINK – no code needed!
They even offer 24/7 roadside assistance and insurance is included in the rental price.
Still not sure if you need a 2WD or 4WD, I think you’ll find this helpful. 👇
➡️ READ: 2WD or 4WD in Iceland: Which Rental Car Is the Best Option?
What to Wear in August
While the weather in August is certainly on the warmer side, the last thing you want is to come to Iceland unprepared.
If you’re wondering what to wear during your August trip to Iceland, here’s a quick summer packing list for you.
Accessories & Clothing for Iceland in August:
- Weatherproof shell jacket
- Rain jacket and pants
- Hiking pants
- Packable down jacket or vest
- Hat or headband
- Gloves
- Buff (neck warmer)
- Thermal base layers
- Fleece
- Leggings
- Jeans for outings
- Hiking boots
- Walking shoes
- Flip flops/sandals for hot springs
- Hiking socks
- Backpack rain cover
- Sleep mask
- Swimsuit
I put together a FREE Iceland Packing Guide to make things way easier for you.
It includes packing checklists, monthly weather averages, outfit ideas, electronics to bring, a layering cheat sheet, and a few insider tips I’ve picked up after living here for years.
So if you’re wondering what to pack for Iceland in August, download the FREE PDF below. 👇
Iceland Festivals + Events
Icelanders love getting together and celebrating art and culture. You’ll usually find some sort of event happening in the city bringing people together, and in August, that’s no exception!
View the Iceland Eclipse, 2026
There’s a lot of buzz around this event, because this isn’t just any old eclipse, No sir!
Iceland is smack bam in the path of totality, which means that some areas of the country will have the best viewing spots for the total eclipse.
This event is set to happen on the 12th August, 2026, and the last time we experienced a total eclipse here was back in 1954!
If you’re visiting Iceland in August, you need to read this first! 👇
➡️ READ: Iceland Eclipse, 2026: Your Step-by-Step Plan for the Best Viewing Experience
Þjóðhátíð (Thjodhatid)
This is an outdoor music festival that takes place in the Westman Islands.
It’s one of the most anticipated weekends of the whole year for a lot of locals! So if the idea of hanging out in lopapeyasa with the locals, on an island off of the coast of Iceland, listening to outdoor concerts, and dancing around bonfires sounds like fun to you…Then you have to go to Þjóðhátíð.
Pro tip: Just know that you have to book tickets really far in advance, you can’t just pop on in.
Also, traveling along South Iceland at this time of year is usually really busy traffic-wise (because that’s where all the locals are going!).
Menningarnótt
This is a culture festival that takes place in Reykjavík. You can find music, art, and other activities going on.
This festival marks the end of summer for the locals, so it’s a really fun time around the city, with tons of things to do!
Here’s what you can expect. 👇
Reykjavík Pride Festival
One of my all-time favorite events! Iceland has always been known for being a very LGBT-friendly country, but this weekend is extra special.
There’s a huge parade, glittering unicorns, and rainbows everywhere.
If you’re in the city during Reykjavík Pride, then you are in for a treat!
Top Things to Do in Iceland in August
It’s the perfect time to take advantage of all the places that are accessible in the summer, like the remote and rugged Highlands and Westfjords. This is also the perfect month for nature lovers to witness all the wildlife activity.
August in Iceland is SO much fun! There’s a ton going on, from music festivals to cultural celebrations, and more.
1. Visit the Charming Villages
One of the standout things for me in Iceland, is its gorgeous little villages.
Imagine taking a road trip to Vík in South Iceland with its iconic church perched up on the hill. Or the fairytale-like village of Seyðisfjörður (Seydisfjordur) in East Iceland.
Spending time in places like these gives you much more of an authentic Iceland experience.
Find out what my top 10 favorite Icelandic villages are below. 👇
➡️ READ: Towns in Iceland: 10 of the Best Villages That’ll Leave You Breathless
2. Hiking in Iceland in August
The hiking opportunities in August are endless!
Whether it’s a hot spring, waterfalls, volcanic craters, or hidden gems off the beaten path, Iceland has it.
You can try hiking trails in Skaftafell National Park or challenging ones like the Fimmvörðuháls (Fimmvorduhals hike) in Thorsmork.
l’m proud to say I did it, and I’ve got the video to prove it! 😊
For more incredible hikes across the country, check out this blog post. 👇
➡️ READ: What Are the Best Hikes in Iceland? 13 Trails You Need to Explore!
3. Explore the Highlands
When you’re looking for adventure, few things compare to heading into the Highlands!
You can visit the hot springs in Landmannalaugar, go hiking in Iceland in August at Kerlingarfjöll, and explore some of the country’s most breathtaking landscapes.
Visit Helka volcano, Laki craters and impressive waterfalls. There’s honestly so much to do!
Rent a 4WD, pack your bags, and get ready to be in awe of everything the Highlands have to offer.
One thing’s for sure: preparation is key! Here’s what you need to know before you visit. 👇
➡️ READ: The Highlands of Iceland: Your Ultimate Guide To Explore Like A Pro
4. Camping in Iceland in August
Imagine pitching a tent and waking up to some of Iceland’s most dramatic scenery.
Camping in Iceland is an adventure lover’s dream, and August in Iceland is the perfect time to try it out.
If a tent camping sounds a little too rugged for your liking, I can wholeheartedly vouch for the campervan company Happy Campers.
They’re the original camper van company in Iceland and they have a wide selection of campervans to choose from. You’ll have everything you need to cook, sleep, and travel comfortably around the country.
Plus their customer service is second to none!
Use my code: IWV10 when you book with Happy Campers and get a 10% off the total rental price!
5. See the Waterfalls in Iceland
One of the things that makes Iceland so magical is the sheer number of waterfalls.
Seriously, they’re everywhere!
The thing is, some of the best ones are trickier, or sometimes downright impossible, to reach in winter. So if you’re planning an Iceland trip in August, it’s the perfect time to visit places like Hengifoss, Glymur, or Sigöldugljúfur (also known as the “Valley of Tears”).
I made a mega-list of 21 of my favorite waterfalls in the country, wanna take a look? 👇
➡️ READ: 21 Unforgettable Waterfalls in Iceland You Don’t Want to Miss
Join Iceland Tours in August
There are a lot of fun tours on offer during the summer months. There’s wildlife, green landscapes and a lot of activities available for you to experience in Iceland in August.
Fishing in Iceland
Whether you love fishing or you’ve always wanted to try it but never got around to buying all the equipment and figuring it out yourself… this tour is a great option.
It’s suitable for all experience levels, and heads out of Reykjavík, so it’s super convenient if that’s your base.
You’ll board an Icelandic fishing boat, with homemade cookies and coffee in hand while the experienced fishermen take you out to their favorite secret fishing spots.
(Okay, they already had me at ‘homemade cookies!’).
On the way back, they’ll grill up the day’s catch for a gourmet barbecue.
Sounds sooo good!
If you’re interested in fishing in Iceland in August, this tour is such a fun way to experience it. 👇
➡️ TAKE A TOUR: Reykjavík’s Finest Catch: Guided Sea Angling Tour for All Levels
Snorkeling Between Tectonic Plates in Iceland (Silfra, Iceland)
Imagine snorkeling between tectonic plates in Silfra’s crystal-clear glacier water.
It’s a safe and easy activity with professional guides that offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience – and you even receive underwater GoPro photos.
I must admit, this was an experience I was personally terrified of trying, but once I did it… it was incredible! Here’s everything you need to know about snorkeling the Silfra in Iceland.
Trust me, you’ll love exploring Iceland’s underwater wonders in August!
Get all the details below.
➡️ READ: Silfra in Iceland: The Coolest Snorkeling Spot You’ll Ever Visit
Whale Watching
Whether you’re visiting Reykjavík or the North Coast, whale watching in Iceland in August is an unforgettable experience to add to your itinerary.
Learn about the wildlife in Iceland and spot humpbacks, minke whales, and dolphins. If you keep your eyes peeled you might even see orcas!
➡️ TAKE A TOUR: Reykjavík Classic Whale Watching
Things to Do in Reykjavík in August
This capital is so full of life and activity, I promise, you won’t be bored for a second!
There are iconic sights like the Harpa Concert Hall and Hallgrímskirkja, or you can escape into nature at Elliðaárdalur Valley with its forests… right in the city!
Oh, and visiting the coffee shops in Reykjavík and trying out delicious pastries is always a must on the to do list!
Iceland is notoriously expensive, but you don’t need to spend a fortune to have some really great experiences in Reykjavík.
There are so many fun and free things to do here, if you want to know what they are, don’t skip this post! 👇
➡️ READ: 23 Free & Cheap Things to do in Reykjavík on Your Trip
FAQs
August comes with a lot of perks, but travelers still tend to have a few common questions before visiting:
Can You See Puffins in Iceland in August?
You should still be able to see them at the beginning of the month, but puffins usually start leaving towards the middle of the month.
Here’s a bit more on the best places to see them. 👇
➡️ READ: Puffins in Iceland: Top 6 Locations and Exciting Tours
How Cold is Iceland in August?
The weather is mild but chilly at times. It’s not your typical summer weather here, with temperatures averaging 47 – 55 ºF (13-18ºC).
Is it Easy to Drive Around Iceland in August?
Yes, August is still technically summer, so the roads are open and weather conditions aren’t as drastic as they are in the winter months in Iceland.
How Busy is Iceland in August?
You can expect there to be crowds in Iceland in August.
If you’re still trying to decide on the best time to visit, don’t miss this post that breaks it all down. It’s a quick and easy overview of what to expect during each month in Iceland. 👇
➡️ READ: Best Time to Visit Iceland: How to Pick the Perfect Month & Season for Your Trip
Start Your August Trip to Iceland Like a Pro
August in Iceland is wonderful! But no matter what month you choose to visit, you’ll be blown away by Iceland’s beauty.
Check out our other month-by-month travel guides below:
And if you want to start your trip stress-free, make sure to grab my FREE Iceland Arrival Guide!
It walks you through exactly what to expect when you land, from navigating Keflavík Airport and Duty-Free shopping to picking up your rental car and getting to Reykjavík.
Plus, you’ll also get access to exclusive VIP discounts from some awesome local companies!
Download your FREE Iceland Arrival Guide below and kick off your Iceland adventure the right way. 👇
Happy planning,
