The Ultimate Guide to Iceland in August

Midnight Sun in Iceland in August

Each year, everyone in Iceland waits in anticipation for August — the peak of the summer season. As the month progresses, the midnight sun approaches its end and brings back the beautiful (dark) night skies Icelanders haven't seen for months.

So does it actually get dark in Iceland in August?

That depends on when you visit in August. If you’re coming to Iceland specifically to see the midnight sun, aim to plan your trip for early August, when the days are longer, as they will gradually get shorter as the month goes on. The midnight sun is dwindling by late August and the nights are becoming longer again. By the end of August, you can expect about 18 hours of daylight, with a long period of twilight.

Although the Icelandic summer is well known for the phenomenal midnight sun, the locals welcome a bit of darkness to make up for some sleepless summer nights.

Can I see the northern lights in Iceland in August?

By the end of August, Iceland only has a couple of hours of dark night skies. This is when the season’s first northern lights sightings appear, though it's still a matter of luck whether you’ll see them, and you would have to stay up really late to have a chance.

Seeing the northern lights requires solar activity, no cloud cover, and a dark sky. This is why they begin to appear again in late August, but if the northern lights are high on your must-see list, August isn’t the best time to see the northern lights.

• Read more about the best Northern Lights Tours in Iceland

Weather in Iceland in August

Iceland is well-known for its unpredictable weather, which sometimes can put a damper on an otherwise wonderful journey. The country has many natural wonders to explore, such as majestic glaciers, cascading waterfalls, bursting volcanoes, and bubbling hot springs, and the best part is the weather won't get in the way of your adventures, making August a good time to visit Iceland.

August in Iceland is in that sweet spot when the nights are getting darker, but the days are still sunny and temperate. The weather in Iceland in August is mild, sunny, and occasionally just a little bit rainy.

Generally, the weather in the south of Iceland in August changes between grey clouds, rain, and bright sunlight. Despite Iceland's reputation, the only snow you'll see will be at the top of mountains (or on glaciers, if you dare!)

Temperatures in Iceland in August

If you're wondering how cold Iceland is in August, the average temperature in August is generally no lower than 50 F (10 C) and no higher than 70 F (20 C). Because Iceland has a maritime climate, the temperatures tend to be rather mild.

The island is at the meeting point of a cold (arctic) air mass from the north and the warm Gulf Stream from the south, which can cause unpredictable weather.

The wind factor is vital to note. On a 59 F (15 C) afternoon with sunshine, coastal winds can chill down even the warmest afternoon, so it's essential to bring the proper clothing.

The quintessential Icelandic sweater, the traditional lopapeysa, is perfectly breathable clothing that offers ample insulation from sudden winds.

Is Iceland rainy or snowy in August?

Even though the weather is at its most pleasant through July and August in Iceland, this doesn’t mean you’re guaranteed to stay dry. The average rainfall in August in Iceland is around 62mm (2.4 inches), so be prepared for sporadic light showers. However, there's little to no risk of snowfall.

• Read all about the Weather in Iceland and The Best Times to Visit

What to Pack for Iceland in August

August is one of the warmest months in Iceland, but the weather can be unpredictable. If you plan to go hiking or on glacier tours, you still need to pack some warm layers and have a proper waterproof and windproof jacket.

The long hours of daylight might sound nice, but you’ll be exposed to the sun for longer, which means you must be prepared for that, too.

• Waterproof and windproof jacket

• Warm layers like a light fleece or lopapeysa

• Hiking boots

• Cap and sunglasses

• Bathing suit

• T-shirts and summer clothes

• Hats, gloves, and thermals for hiking and glacier tours

Best things to do in Iceland in August

Want to know the top things to see and do in Iceland in August? With the pleasant weather in Iceland in August, almost every activity is available. Under the exceptionally beautiful skies, sometimes taking hues of purple and pink thanks to the midnight sun. Traveling to Iceland in August is an excellent idea if you're an adventure lover because it’s the perfect time for a road trip and going hiking.

Road trip across Iceland in August

In the summer months, all the roads around the country are open. This late summer month is the optimal time to rent a car in Iceland and head out on a self-drive tour, where you can decide your own journey at your own pace and navigate the island with greater ease. Guide to Iceland has a wide range of self-drive tours available with pre-arranged accommodations along the way.

Those with time can travel along the Ring Road that circles the entire island from town to town while catching a few local events in and out of the capital. You can also visit the famous Blue Lagoon or travel along the Golden Circle route, which can be done year-round. You can find more inspiration for planning your self-drive itinerary with our list of adventure holidays in Iceland.

• See a list of the Best Attractions by the Ring Road of Iceland

Hiking in Iceland in August

One of the top things to do in Iceland in August is hiking. It's the perfect time of year for backpacking in Iceland since the weather and road conditions are optimal, meaning all parts of Iceland’s varied landscape are more accessible than at other times of the year.

Hiking the Highlands in Iceland in August

The best place to go hiking in Iceland during the summer is in the Highlands. It’s inaccessible during the winter months, and it’s where you’ll find the highest peak in Iceland; Hvannadalshnukur mountain in Vatnajokull National Park. Another popular option is the trails around Landmannalaugar, known for its beautiful rhyolite mountain and bathing hot springs.

There are many guided hiking tours available in August, or you can choose from various easy day hikes around Reykjavik and beyond. Our guide to hiking in Iceland covers the best trails and everything you need to know about making the best of the warm August weather in Iceland and exploring the natural beauty of Iceland's landscapes up close.

Berry picking while hiking in Iceland in August

Iceland has several native species of edible berry that are ripe for picking in August. While out on your hike, keep an eye out for crowberries, whortleberries, and blueberries. It’s perfectly acceptable to pick berries from public uncultivated lands across Iceland, but be mindful not to encroach on private land in the hunt for these sweet treats.

Be sure to do a little research into what berries to avoid as well. While most of the wild berries found across Iceland are safe for consumption, a few can be toxic, such as the red berries of the yew tree.

Puffin and whale watching in Iceland in August

August marks the closing of the puffin nesting season in Iceland. Each year, they migrate to Iceland between April and September to nest on Iceland's many islands and coastal cliffs. You'll find them at Latrabjarg in the Westfjords, the Westman Islands, Dyrholaey on the South Coast, and Grimsey in the north, among other places.

The puffins in Iceland have an unmistakable allure due to their striking appearance and sweet nature. While spotting these cute feathered friends, remember that they're precious wild animals that should be treated with dignity and respect.

Many puffin tours are combined with whale watching as well. While you can spot whales in Iceland throughout the year, the chances are higher between March and November. Common summer season species include humpback whales, blue whales, fin whales, and white-beaked dolphins.

Be sure to bring a waterproof and windproof jacket because it can still be wet and rainy, especially out at sea!

Kayaking in Iceland in August

Iceland’s scenic coastline is renowned for its black sandy beaches and glacier lagoons, with views of sweeping mountains and glistening ice caps. Kayaking is a great way to explore them up close and get an alternative view to what you can see while hiking.

Many tours range from easy to difficult, from a guided two-hour kayaking tour under Mt. Kirkjufell on the Snaefellsnes peninsula to a three-day kayaking and camping adventure in the beautiful and remote Westfjords

Not only is it a great way to get close to the wildlife, but you can also kayak under the midnight sun, which is a surreal experience.

• Learn more about Kayaking in Iceland

River rafting in August in Iceland

Another exciting option for an adventure trip in August is one of Iceland’s river rafting tours. Being home to some of Europe’s most powerful waterfalls is a testimony to the strength of the rapids of Iceland’s rivers.

River rafting is a unique way to experience the power of Iceland's rivers and, most importantly, it's a thrilling joy ride! You can go river rafting down the Hvita river, which flows from the Langjokull glacier in the south, while the Austari-Jokulsa river (West Glacial River) and the Vestari-Jokulsa river (East Glacial River) flow from the Hofsjokull glacier in the north.

According to the international river rafting standard, the Hvita and Vestari-Jokulsa rivers are Class II rivers with moderately rough water. The Austari-Jokulsa river is a more challenging Class IV, with long and powerful rapids.

Have a look at some of the best river rafting tours in Iceland, many of which are combined with other adventurous activities, like this ATV with canyon river rafting trip.

Jet boat tours in Iceland in August

Another great way to experience Iceland’s beautiful scenery in the summer sun is with an exciting jet boat tour. With calmer conditions at sea, this is the ideal time to get out for an exhilarating blast along Iceland’s rivers and fjords or to visit some of the less accessible spots around the coast. There are a variety of short Rigid Inflatable Boat (RIB) sightseeing tours and longer combination tours that mix a jet boat ride with other activities, such as an ATV tour or a longer, scenic tour of the Golden Circle.

Snorkeling and diving in Iceland in August

Iceland’s temperature in August is at its warmest of the year, so if you’re not a fan of the cold, this is a great time to snorkel and dive in Iceland. It’s a requirement to scuba dive in a drysuit in Iceland, although you can still free dive or snorkel in a wetsuit if you would like.

Iceland’s best place to dive in is the unique Silfra fissure in Thingvellir National Park, part of the rift between Eurasia and American tectonic plates. You can read all about the requirements and other suitable places in our guide to snorkeling and diving in Iceland.

Swimming pools and hot springs in August in Iceland

For a more leisurely way to get wet in Iceland, do as the locals do and visit one of the country’s many swimming pools. You can always rely on it, that no matter how small the town or village is, there's going to be a local swimming pool for you to soak in. Most are sourced from Iceland’s natural geothermal water source, making them comfortable, warm temperatures all year round.

One of the most accessible pools in Reykjavik is Laugardalslaug. As well as an Olympic-sized pool, it has geothermal hot tubs, water slides, a steam room, and a sauna.

There are also many natural hot spring pools all over Iceland, which offer a great way to relax midway through a hike in the countryside. Some of them are on private land and require permission from the landowner to enter, so be sure to talk to locals and get advice on where to go. Alternatively, you can book a guided hot spring tour so you can guarantee you won’t be inadvertently trespassing.

The Blue Lagoon in Iceland in August

The famous Blue Lagoon is a luxurious geothermal spa which has become one of Iceland’s most visited attractions. It’s conveniently located just 30 miles (50 kilometers) from Reykjavik and 12 miles (20 kilometers) from Keflavik International Airport, which is why many visitors like to book a visit as soon as they arrive or right before their flight home.

Be sure to book in advance, especially since August is the high season for tourism in Iceland. The Blue Lagoon has a limited capacity per day, so pre-booking means you won’t miss out and can guarantee your spot.

Glacier Tours in Iceland in August

Glacier tours in Iceland in the summer months are still operational. You can get very close and even walk upon these enormous glaciers covering 11 percent of the country’s landmass.

You can go on a guided glacier hike or speed across its surface on a snowmobiling tour. A less physically challenging option is visiting a glacier ice tunnel where your guide can tell you about these spectacular natural formations.

Festivals and holidays in August in Iceland

If you're planning on visiting Iceland in August, there are plenty of festivals, holidays, sporting competitions, and outdoor markets to check out. It stands to reason that Icelanders are trying to make the most out of the end of summer and the midnight sun in Iceland in August.

There's hardly a corner of the island that doesn't hold a festival during the first weekend in August. Check out the annual festivals before deciding which places to visit in Iceland in August.

Verslunarmannahelgi Holiday Weekend

The first Monday of August marks a holiday in Iceland called the Merchant's Holiday (Fridagur verslunarmanna) and was originally a holiday for the merchant class in Iceland, but eventually evolved into a holiday for all Icelanders. Ironically, nowadays, the only Icelanders working during that weekend are people working in shops and supermarkets, i.e. merchants.

These three days of summer are beloved for their wild events and various festivals taking place across the country called the Verslunarmannahelgi holiday weekend. If you plan to travel to Iceland in August, you might want to make it this first weekend.

Thjodhatid in the Westman Islands

The most popular of all these events is Thjodhatid i Eyjum, an annual festival first held in 1874. It’s set in the lush volcanic terrain of the Westman Islands. Initially, the festival was a collection of sports events, but it soon evolved into a sizable open-air music festival featuring many great Icelandic musicians. 

During the Thjodhatid festival, the isolated fishing town of Heimaey Island comes to life as visitors from the mainland flock to Herjolfsdalur valley to enjoy camping, concerts, fireworks, and spectacular views. If you plan to go to Heimaey, make sure to take time to go on a boat tour to see the internet-famous Elephant Rock.

Myrarboltinn in Isafjordur

Another major event during the first weekend of August is the annual European championship in swamp soccer, held in Isafjordur in the Westfjords of Iceland. A sporting event unlike any other, Myrarboltinn was imported from Finland back in 2004 and has since gained nationwide popularity.

Interested participants sign up in teams, flaunting their banners and jerseys with Viking-like pride. This event is arguably the dirtiest sporting event in existence, taking place in a pit of mud, with foul play permitted by the rulebook.

While the match is happening, many concerts and parties are taking place in Isafjordur, making it one of the best places to travel for a holiday.

Innipukinn in Reykjavik in August

If you aren't up for traveling to the countryside for a festival weekend, the Reykjavik-based Innipukinn (“Homebody”) is the event for you. Innipukinn is a live music event that runs for three days, but only between 4-12 PM. See some of the best the Icelandic music scene has to offer without having to leave the downtown area.

• See also: Secret Spots & Hidden Gems in Reykjavik 
• See also: Top 10 Things to do in Reykjavik 

Ein Med Ollu in Akureyri

In the “Capital of the North,” Akureyri, Ein med ollu ("One with All") takes place; a town festival boasting of various sporting events, competitions, concerts, an outdoor market, and a carnival.

Neistaflug Festival in Eastfjords

Deep in the Eastfjords, the tiny town of Neskaupstadur has a family-friendly festival—Neistaflug—with music, entertainment, golf, and fly fishing tournaments.

Saeludagar Festival in Vatnaskogur Woods

Saeludagar is another family-friendly festival held in the scenic Vatnaskogur woods. You'll find plenty of opportunities for the kids to learn and play there.

Fiskidagurinn Mikli—"The Great Fishing Day"

Photo from Kayak Fishing Adventure by Mt. Kirkjufell

Iceland is a nation built on fishing. Icelanders are proud of the fishermen who fed the population for centuries and still do. Fishing was key for Icelanders to survive in a harsh climate, where one bad summer (or natural catastrophe) could ruin a full year's harvest, the sea was there to fall back on when times were tough.

The most notable festival celebrating fishermen is Fiskidagurinn mikli ("The Great Fishing Day"). It takes place the weekend after the Verslunarmannahelgi weekend. The festivities, including live music and fireworks, center around a gigantic seafood buffet free to everyone attending.

Local fish producers supply the ingredients, while town residents come together for the preparations and, later, the celebration. The festival takes place each August in the municipality of Dalvik on the Trollaskagi Peninsula.

Dalvik sits close to the largest town in the north, Akureyri, and is well worth a visit at any time. But be sure to go there in August for an unrivaled all-you-can-eat local experience.

• Explore the  wide variety of Akureyri tours 

What to do in Reykjavik in August

There are several things to see and do in Reykjavik in August. Reykjavik is the cultural hub of Iceland, and its lively nightlife and vibrant art scene make it a must-visit for anyone coming to Iceland.

Though Iceland is most famous for its untouched landscapes and natural wonders, you don't have to rush out of the city because there's always something happening in Reykjavik. Two of the year's most popular cultural events take place in August in the capital city.

Menningarnott—Reykjavik Culture Night

Menningarnott (“Culture Night”) is a popular event in Reykjavik that draws a lot of people every year. It even competes with Icelandic Independence Day in terms of attendance.

On Menningarnott, residents of the capital join forces to build a one-night-only event packed with arts and cultural events, including indoor and outdoor concerts. Events take place in museums, cafes, clubs, restaurants, parks, theaters, and, of course, on the city's streets and plazas.

The Culture Night closes with one of the year’s biggest parties, which stretches from one end of Reykjavik to the other.

• See our Reykjavik Nightlife Guide

Menningarnott takes place annually on the first Saturday after August 18, and there's no better day to get to know the full extent of the culture of Reykjavik. Let the music lead you from venue to venue, and don't forget to look up at the sky around midnight for a spectacular fireworks display.

Reykjavik Pride Festival

The second weekend of August is dedicated to Iceland's LGBT community. The annual Reykjavik Pride Parade is a large parade with a diverse array of extravagant floats and performances that marches down the main street of Reykjavik's city center. Many notable Icelanders have taken an active part in the Pride Parade including Eurovision pop singer Paul Oscar and former mayor of Reykjavik Jon Gnarr, who participated in the parade in full drag.

• See also: Gay Iceland | All You Need to Know 

The festival isn't just a one-day parade but a weeklong celebration with exciting events taking place across the city, including concerts, film screenings, drag performances, and other live shows. During this weekend the city becomes very colorful and there's a feeling of festivity in the air while walking around the downtown area, whether during the day or in the evening.

Accommodation in Iceland in August

August is the peak season in Iceland, so the most popular locations might be crowded. Still, there are always corners of the island where you can find some peace and quiet, especially if you rent a budget car or book to stay in a secluded cabin in Iceland. Just remember you'll need to book well in advance to ensure that you have a place to stay for the night.

Camping in Iceland in August

The lovely August weather in Iceland means that camping is a great—and cheaper—way to spend your nights. Remember to camp at an authorized camping ground and be mindful of the natural wonders around you. A good rule of thumb for traveling in Iceland is that if it seems like you shouldn't do it, don't.

Is August a good time to go to Iceland?

Now that you have an insight into all the different events happening in August, the various activities you can engage in, and the wealth of natural wonders to explore. The ultimate question remains: Is August a good time to go to Iceland? The answer is a resounding yes. The weather is mild and temperate, which is perfect for exploring the great outdoors. The days are bright and long thanks to the midnight sun, so you won't be limited by the darkness when you want to go sightseeing. There are also various festivals taking place around the country and so many activities available to you that you will never run out of things to do. At the end of your trip, when it comes time to fly back home, you'll wish you'd had just one more day in Iceland.

Did we answer all your questions about things to see and do in Iceland in August? Let us know in the comments below if there’s anything you want to find out about or if you have a question for us.