April in Iceland is magical. If you crave a long, stormy spring scene with unpredictable weather and witnessing the island come alive with bird song while you watch for the polar lights at night, this is it.
If you landed on this page, it is obvious I love Iceland. As someone who has spent extended time there in all seasons, I can offer an honest opinion on what it is like to visit this country at any time of year.
Whether you are a photographer or just seeking a vacation in the land of fire and ice, this underrated shoulder season has something for everyone. Let’s explore what to expect if you are on your way or planning a trip to Iceland in April!
This post will cover:
- Clothes and other miscellaneous items to pack
- What to expect in April
- My favorite things to do in Iceland in April
- Recommended apps
Iceland in April
Shoulder season in Iceland is one of my favorite times to visit. Fewer tourists, a chance to see the Northern Lights, and migratory birds make for a trip with plenty of adventure and variety. The weather can be just as adventurous and unpredictable, but with the right preparation and planning, Iceland in April can be a special time to visit.
This post will explore essentials to pack for an Iceland April trip, recommended activities, and other miscellaneous items to pack.
I have experienced everything from a sunny, calm day in April to a downright blizzard with road closures and horrible visibility. Along with your suitcase, make sure to pack your flexibility, because plans can change on a dime.
It is always a good idea to have a plan B for the days when the weather may change. Driving in bad weather in Iceland is no joke and should be avoided. Download safetravel.is app to stay on top of weather and road closures during your trip.
There are plenty of indoor activities to enjoy, such as geothermal spas, local pools, museums, and coffee shops ( if you are in Reykjavik or Akureyri) to pass the time!
With that in mind, if you are renting a car, I highly suggest a 4×4 and full insurance. I know people often gasp at the cost of a fully insured car rental in Iceland, but trust me, you need this peace of mind. Last week, gravel from a windstorm damaged several rental cars traveling on the main road on the south coast. You don’t want to be that person with the hefty damage bill.
Your best bet when renting a car in Iceland in April is to watch the weather and obey road closures.
Average temps in Iceland in April : 3 degrees C / 37 degrees F
Although April is considered one of the drier months in Iceland, it is not uncommon to have a mix of snow, sleet, and ice in one day, which is why you want to go prepared.
Take it from me, with the right clothing, a flexible plan, and an adventurous spirit, you can enjoy Iceland in April just as much as I have!
Activities in April
Visiting Iceland in April allows time to slow down and enjoy popular tourist sights, such as the Golden Circle and the South Coast, with fewer crowds.
What I enjoy most about April in Iceland is the signs of spring returning. If you visit mid to late April you will hear the island’s first Common Snipe or the return of the Golden Plover- a bird that symbolizes spring in Iceland.
Access to the Highlands is still closed unless you attend a guided tour via Super Jeep, but you can still enjoy a tour of the ice caves and glacier walks.
The average daylight in April is 15 hours, giving you more time to explore, while on clear nights you can keep your eyes on the sky for a chance to see the Polar Lights.
What you can see in April:
- Northern Lights
- Fewer crowds at popular sites
- Ice caves and guided glacier walks
- More daylight for self driven tours
What you won’t see:
- Highlands ( unless by Super Jeep tour)
- Puffins ( unless you go later in the month there is a small chance)
- The midnight sun. Although the daylight is much more plentiful than in January, the midnight sun season really begins in June.
A few of my favorite things to do in April in Iceland are:
- Guided Super Jeep Tour in Thorsmork
- Katla Ice Cave Tour
- Self drive tour of Snaefellsnes Peninsula
- Southcoast gems such as Skogafoss, Seljalandsfoss, Vík, and Gluggafoss.
- Horseback riding
- Museums, cafes, and a food tour in Reykjavik
- Thermal hot springs and community pool swims. Every town in Iceland has a pool and it is worth checking out at least one on your trip!
- Lava Show in Hvolsvöllur
- Bird watching on the coast by Dyrhólaey or on Snaefellsnes. The puffins can sometimes be spotted in Iceland as early as late April.
- In good weather, take the ferry to Vestmannaeyjar and explore the Unesco Heritage Site. Take a long stroll by the coast for bird and scenery watching.
- Whale watching out of Husavík or Reykjavík.
I would not consider attempting a Ring Road drive in April. Although the weather can be quite pleasant this time of year, it is not uncommon for road closures, especially in the North, due to a storm. Driving conditions can deteriorate quickly and become downright dangerous. The east and west fjord regions can also report avalanches onto the road this time of year.
If you want to explore the North this time of year, I would suggest taking a domestic flight from Reykjavik to Akureyri and basing your exploration there. Akureyri is a charming town, and there is a lot to do and see around that area.
If you base your trip out of Akureyri, plan a day trip to Hrísey, a small island accessible by ferry ride. The island has a beautiful walking path, plenty of birdwatching, views of the fjord, and pleasant locals.
What to wear
When I packed for my last Iceland trip in February, I was confused as to why I was SO confused about what to bring. After visiting the country over a dozen times in all seasons and attending an art residency there, I should know exactly what to pack, right?!
What makes Iceland so difficult to pack for is how unpredictable the weather can be, which is why layers are key!
This last trip, I realized I nailed my packing. Here is a list of clothing that is my go-to for Iceland’s shoulder season:
- Waterproof warm jacket, such as a parka.
- Waterproof pants. I like these by Helly Hansen.
- Thermal wool leggings and wool baselayers
- A zip-up fleece like Better Sweater by Patagonia.
- A wool sweater ( Lopapeysu- Icelandic Wool Sweater)
- Waterproof boots with good ankle support
- Warm hat and mittens. I love The Heat Company’s mittens with the built-in liner!
- Nicer sweater for dining out or the city. I see this question often. Icelanders are very fashionable. I pack a nice sweater tunic as I can dress it up or down, and it makes a great layer on the airplane.
- warm socks
- scarf to keep your neck warm
- sunscreen because when the sun is out, it can get strong!
- Microspikes for traction if it is icy out.
It may also be a good idea to pack lighter layers in case you decide on a glacier-hike tour, and the temperatures are a bit milder. I found it easier to navigate these excursions with layers such as a wool baselayer, a light sweater, a thin down jacket, and a waterproof jacket, rather than a big, bulky parka.
Other miscellaneous items to pack:
- Adapter for EU outlet
- Earplugs and an eye mask for the plane
- Passport and holder
- Hair ties if you have long hair! The wind has wreaked havoc on my hair in Iceland. Now I almost always wear it back in a braid when I am out exploring.
- I do bring a paper map, such as this one by National Geographic, as a “just in case.” Most vehicles come equipped with GPS or can have it added for a cost, but I like having a map with me as a backup plan.
- Reusable water bottle. Iceland’s water is very clean, and you can drink it right out of the tap! Skip the plastic bottled water and bring your own to refill.
- You can use a reusable shopping bag, or you can purchase one at a grocery store if you will be doing any grocery shopping for cooking.
- Credit or debit card with a PIN. Most gas stations and stores in Iceland take cards with a PIN or Apple Pay. I do carry some Icelandic Kronur with me in case I need them for a cash-only shop (they do exist, with smaller, handmade makers! ).
- Camera, tripod, extra batteries, and charger.
- Binoculars or a scope if you are interested in bird watching.
For bags, I love my North Face waterproof duffel when I am venturing around in a camper van, and my Think Tank Backlight 26L for my photography gear.
Recommended Apps
Here is a list of the apps I recommend for your April visit:
- safetravel.is
- My Aurora or Hello Aurora
- Parka App for parking at designated paid parking areas
- Vedur.is for up to date weather forecasts
In closing, April is a wonderful time of year to plan a trip to the land of fire and ice, offering visitors a chance to see popular sites with fewer crowds, bird watch, and even get a glimpse of the last of the season’s polar lights.
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