Weather in Iceland in April Travel Guide

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

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 to visit 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 lines, 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 addition, the Northern Lights are still very much observable now. 

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 all the pros, visiting Iceland in April has some cons.

One of the primary concerns is the unpredictable weather. It can be sunny and warm during the day, rainy in the morning, and chilly at night.

There is even the possibility of unexpected storms that may force 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 customizable Iceland itineraries.

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 tires is highly recommended.

Tip from Rough Guides: also learn about the best ways to get to Iceland.

Best things to do in Iceland in April

While there are tons 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 colors 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 makes 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.

Looking for more options for your vacation in April? Find the perfect vacation spot with our top suggestions.

Dolphin and whale watching

Dolphin and whale watching is a popular and rewarding activity to enjoy in Iceland in April. 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.

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.

Can you see the northern lights in Iceland 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 pollution. Even driving a short distance out of town could significantly improve your chances.

Can't wait for your trip to Iceland? Increase your chances of an unforgettable trip by choosing one of the best places to stay in Reykjavik.

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 unfavorable, 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.

Plan your trip with our Iceland itineraries

Our Iceland itineraries are crafted to help you experience the best of the country, stress-free. Think of them as a starting point — perfect for planning, but flexible enough to adjust to your own pace and interests. After all, travel is about freedom, but a little planning goes a long way.

• Iceland itinerary 5 days: A quick trip hitting Iceland’s highlights. Visit Reykjavik, the Golden Circle and take in the stunning scenery of the South Coast.
• Iceland itinerary 7 days: A week gives you a bit more time to explore beyond the basics. You’ll see the Golden Circle, South Coast, and have time for a few hidden gems or extra hikes.
• Iceland itinerary 10 days: Ten days allows for a more relaxed pace and a chance to see multiple regions, including the East Fjords or Snaefellsnes Peninsula.
• Iceland itinerary 14 days: Two weeks means you can really explore Iceland in depth, including the Beltway and possibly the remote Westfjords.
• Iceland Beltway itinerary: A full circuit of Iceland’s Beltway, typically done in 7-10 days. Expect constantly changing landscapes, from glaciers to fjords to volcanic plains, and the freedom to explore each region as you go.

FAQs

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, 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 trunks/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 pants: 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 moisturizers: 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.

Want more tips? Read our content manager's personal experience traveling in Iceland and find out the important aspects you're likely to encounter on your trip.

Thinking of visiting Iceland? You'll find inspiration in our customizable Iceland itineraries, or contact our local experts to kick-start your perfect trip.