Because the weather is at its best and there are fewer tourists, summer is one of the best months to visit Iceland. Numerous activities are available, such as festivals, hiking, and whale watching. In addition, if you’re fortunate, you might catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights!
Hiking
July is one of the best month to visit Iceland and go hiking. You can enjoy the warmest weather, many sights, and the ability to explore different nature’s wonders.
If you still need to plan your trip to Iceland, start by researching the ideal time of year to visit. Three main factors influence the best time to travel to this beautiful country. These include airfare, accommodations, and car rental. Each has its own merits and can make or break a trip.
June and July are the year’s hottest months, but this doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the perks of warmer temperatures. The air is still pleasant, and the roads are often cleared of snow. It is also the time when you can catch Iceland’s eerie late-night light.
It’s vital to keep in mind that even when the sun sets, Iceland’s breathtaking nature is still accessible. You might even be fortunate enough to glimpse the northern lights.
While there are no guarantees, July and August are the best months to visit Iceland. During this time, the tourist crowds tend to be smaller. It means you can meet other people in the countryside better.
However, you will have a different opportunity to explore remote areas. Much of Iceland’s highland regions are shut down by the end of the month. So, plan if you want to do some hiking in the off-season.
The best part about hiking in Iceland in July is that it’s inexpensive. Most tours are very reasonably priced. Also, Iceland offers plentiful opportunities for outdoor activities, including horseback riding.
Whale watching
One of the most popular things in Iceland is whale watching. It is because it allows visitors to see whales in their natural habitat.
Whales are abundant in the waters of Iceland. Some species you can expect to see include humpbacks, minke, sperm, and harbour porpoises. The Snaefellsnes peninsula, Akureyri, and Husavik are the most extraordinary locations in Iceland for whale viewing.
You can book whale-watching tours from any of these cities. They are offered year-round. Summer terms are usually combined with sea angling or puffin watching.
Two major ocean currents create a mix of warm and cool water. It gives the Icelandic fjords an abundance of fish and krill. Many different species of dolphin can be seen.
Iceland is also a great place to look for the Northern Lights. If you are lucky, you can see the elusive Aurora Borealis.
In addition to the whales, Iceland is also home to many bird species. If you’re looking for a relaxing day outdoors, you should check out the natural hot springs.
Although you can enjoy whale watching in Iceland at any time of year, the best months are between June and September. It is because of the calmer winds and the chance of a good weather day.
Aside from the common humpback and minke whales, you can also see other varieties of dolphins. These dolphins can be fascinating to see. However, the white-beaked dolphin is the most common dolphin found in Iceland.
For the best whale watching in Iceland, try to book a tour as early as possible. Tours usually offer free tickets if you have a whale sighting.
Festivals
During July, Iceland offers a wide range of cultural festivals and activities. You can enjoy whale watching, island hopping, and even camping. In addition, you can participate in a variety of workshops and music performances.
The Iceland Design Centre is a great place to participate in a festival showcasing innovative design. This event also features lectures and workshops on fashion design, architecture, and product design.
Another festival you can enjoy is the Reykjavik International Film Festival, which focuses on upcoming and emerging directors from over 40 countries. It also includes screenwriters and panel discussions. There are even oddly-placed film showings inside the homes of directors.
One of the most interesting Icelandic festivals is the Viking Festival, which focuses on the history of the country and its pre-Christian culture. Visitors can also enjoy a feast of food and actual Viking duels.
Another great festival you can visit is the Menningarnott, a cultural night in Reykjavik. The event features music, fireworks, and a variety of activities.
For more music, you can visit the Lunga Music Festival. Held in Seydisfjordur, East Iceland, the festival provides a variety of music and workshops.
Another must-see in July is the Medieval Trading Weekend, which takes place in the town of Nasir. You can participate in mediaeval games, craft demonstrations, and other activities.
If you want to experience a more traditional approach to music, you should head to the Siglufjordur Folk Music Festival. The five-day festival offers a variety of folk music and dancing performances.
The Icelandic Midnight Sun is a spectacular phenomenon. The sun will set around 8 pm, depending on the time of year. Aside from its natural beauty, you can also enjoy a picnic at Dynjandi waterfall.
Sjomannadagurinn (Seamans’ Day)
Iceland is a unique travel destination. Its weather is unpredictable, and its roads are sometimes easy to navigate. The country offers many fun activities and landscapes to explore. But when is the best time to visit?
Most visitors tend to head to Iceland in summer, but some winter activities are also to consider. October is a great time to watch the Northern Lights. Despite the cold, the landscape is still gorgeous.
In Iceland, July and August are the hottest months. While temperatures can reach over 20degC in the south, they can drop to -20degC in the northern regions.
If you are looking for more moderate daytime temperatures, consider visiting Iceland in the spring. It is also the most popular time of year for travelers to travel to Iceland. As well as the chance to see the Northern Lights, you’ll also be able to enjoy more hiking, swimming, and fishing.
Although summer is the hottest time of year, it is still relatively mild. Temperatures in May, June, and September are warm enough for outdoor adventures. You can get lucky with unexpected sunshine and a blue hour.
In the summer, you can experience all four seasons in one day. You’ll find a golden hour in the mornings and catch some eerie late-night lighting in the afternoons.
However, if you don’t like the cold, you should visit Iceland in the fall. Although it may be windier in the autumn, it’s still very mild.
There are many events and festivals held in Iceland. These range from traditional fishing songs to seafood feasts to music festivals. Many of these festivals are hosted in Icelandic harbours.
Winter is like a fairytale.
Iceland is a great place to visit at any time of year, but winter has its advantages. The country is home to beautiful landscapes, glaciers, waterfalls, geysers, hot springs, and other things you won’t find anywhere else. However, it can be unpredictable and require some preparation.
For instance, if you plan a winter trip to Iceland, you should be aware of the following:
The best way to experience Iceland in winter is to book in advance. If you are prepared, you can get on a tour that gets cancelled. Aside from that, winter is the perfect time to see the country’s erupting volcanoes, stunning snow-covered mountain vistas, and purple lupine fields. It is also the ideal time to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights.
In general, you will be able to enjoy the wonders of Iceland in the dead of winter, although temperatures can drop. Snow can last until the end of May. During the coldest winter months, Iceland is an ice-skating mecca. Ice sports such as ice skiing and ice fishing are popular.
As with any destination, it’s important to remember that the weather can be unpredictable. It’s worth bringing a few extra warm clothes and a waterproof camera. Also, remember to keep a lookout for weather alerts. It is especially true of the higher altitudes, where roads can be closed.
Winter in Iceland is not for the faint of heart. But it is an exciting time to visit. You’ll be able to witness the country’s finest natural wonders while soaking up some festive holiday cheer. You’ll be surrounded by Icelandic warmth, from Christmas concerts to bonfires to a few nights in the snow.
