The land of fire and ice, Iceland, is a paradise for families who love adventure and the great outdoors. With its breathtaking landscapes, geothermal hot springs, and the Northern Lights, Iceland is a destination that is sure to captivate the imagination of children and adults alike. However, planning a trip to Iceland with kids can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to deciding on the best time to visit. The country’s unique climate and geography make it a challenging destination to navigate, and the weather can be unpredictable and harsh. In this blog post, we will explore the best time to visit Iceland with kids, and provide you with essential information to help you plan a successful and enjoyable family vacation.
The Best Time to Visit Iceland with Kids
Iceland’s climate is characterized by long, cold winters and mild summers. The country experiences a significant amount of daylight during the summer months, with up to 24 hours of sunlight in June and July. Conversely, the winter months can be quite dark, with as little as 4 hours of daylight in December and January. When it comes to visiting Iceland with kids, the best time to visit is during the summer months, specifically from June to August. This period offers the best weather conditions, with mild temperatures and long days, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and exploring the country’s stunning landscapes.
Summer Months (June to August)
The summer months are the peak tourist season in Iceland, and for good reason. The weather is mild, with average temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). The days are long, with up to 24 hours of daylight, making it perfect for exploring the country’s stunning landscapes. The summer months are also the best time to see the Northern Lights, as the nights are still dark enough to allow for good viewing conditions. Some of the top activities to do in Iceland during the summer months include:
- Hiking and camping in the beautiful landscapes of Iceland
- Exploring the stunning waterfalls, including Gullfoss and Skógafoss
- Visiting the famous Blue Lagoon, a geothermal hot spring
- Taking a boat tour to see whales and puffins
- Driving the Golden Circle, a popular tourist route that takes in some of Iceland’s most famous attractions
Pros and Cons of Visiting Iceland in the Summer Months
Here are some pros and cons of visiting Iceland in the summer months:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Mild weather and long days | Peak tourist season, which means higher prices and crowds |
| Best time to see the Northern Lights | Higher risk of rain and wind |
| More outdoor activities available | Higher risk of midges (small insects) and mosquitoes |
Shoulder Season (April to May and September to October)
The shoulder season, which includes the months of April to May and September to October, is a great time to visit Iceland if you’re looking for a more relaxed atmosphere and lower prices. The weather is still mild, with average temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). The days are also long, with up to 18 hours of daylight in April and May, and up to 12 hours of daylight in September and October. Some of the top activities to do in Iceland during the shoulder season include:
- Hiking and camping in the beautiful landscapes of Iceland
- Exploring the stunning waterfalls, including Gullfoss and Skógafoss
- Visiting the famous Blue Lagoon, a geothermal hot spring
- Taking a boat tour to see whales and puffins
- Driving the Golden Circle, a popular tourist route that takes in some of Iceland’s most famous attractions
Pros and Cons of Visiting Iceland in the Shoulder Season
Here are some pros and cons of visiting Iceland in the shoulder season: (See Also: Best Time Of Year To Visit Chiang Mai Thailand – Unforgettable Experiences)
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lower prices and fewer crowds | Cooler weather and shorter days |
| Less risk of rain and wind | Some tourist attractions may be closed |
| More opportunities to see the Northern Lights | Higher risk of midges (small insects) and mosquitoes |
Winter Months (December to March)
The winter months are the low season in Iceland, and for good reason. The weather is harsh, with average temperatures ranging from -2°C to 5°C (28°F to 41°F). The days are also short, with as little as 4 hours of daylight in December and January. However, the winter months are a great time to see the Northern Lights, as the nights are dark enough to allow for good viewing conditions. Some of the top activities to do in Iceland during the winter months include:
- Skiing and snowboarding in the beautiful landscapes of Iceland
- Exploring the stunning ice caves, including the famous Vatnajökull ice cave
- Visiting the famous Blue Lagoon, a geothermal hot spring
- Taking a dog sled tour or a snowmobile tour
- Driving the Golden Circle, a popular tourist route that takes in some of Iceland’s most famous attractions
Pros and Cons of Visiting Iceland in the Winter Months
Here are some pros and cons of visiting Iceland in the winter months:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Best time to see the Northern Lights | Harsh weather and short days |
| Less crowded and lower prices | Some tourist attractions may be closed |
| More opportunities to see the aurora borealis | Higher risk of road closures and flight cancellations |
Preparing for Your Trip to Iceland with Kids
Before planning your trip to Iceland with kids, there are a few things to consider. Here are some tips to help you prepare:
Weather and Clothing
Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable and harsh, so it’s essential to pack warm and waterproof clothing for your trip. Here are some essentials to include in your packing list:
- Warm and waterproof jackets and pants
- Insulated and waterproof boots
- Thermal base layers and warm socks
- Warm hats and gloves
- Scarf or neck warmer
Activities and Itinerary
When planning your itinerary, consider the age and interests of your children. Here are some activities that are suitable for kids: (See Also: Best Time To Visit Bc Canada? Ultimate Guide)
- Hiking and camping in the beautiful landscapes of Iceland
- Exploring the stunning waterfalls, including Gullfoss and Skógafoss
- Visiting the famous Blue Lagoon, a geothermal hot spring
- Taking a boat tour to see whales and puffins
- Driving the Golden Circle, a popular tourist route that takes in some of Iceland’s most famous attractions
Accommodation and Transportation
When it comes to accommodation and transportation, consider the needs of your family. Here are some options to consider:
- Family-friendly hotels and guesthouses
- Camping and glamping options
- Rental cars and campervans
- Public transportation and shuttle services
Recap
In conclusion, the best time to visit Iceland with kids depends on your family’s preferences and interests. The summer months offer the best weather conditions and the longest days, making it ideal for outdoor activities. The shoulder season is a great time to visit if you’re looking for a more relaxed atmosphere and lower prices. The winter months are a great time to see the Northern Lights, but the weather can be harsh and the days are short. Regardless of when you visit, it’s essential to pack warm and waterproof clothing, plan your itinerary carefully, and consider the needs of your family when it comes to accommodation and transportation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best time to visit Iceland with kids?
A: The best time to visit Iceland with kids depends on your family’s preferences and interests. The summer months offer the best weather conditions and the longest days, making it ideal for outdoor activities. The shoulder season is a great time to visit if you’re looking for a more relaxed atmosphere and lower prices. The winter months are a great time to see the Northern Lights, but the weather can be harsh and the days are short.
Q: What are the top activities to do in Iceland with kids?
A: Some of the top activities to do in Iceland with kids include hiking and camping in the beautiful landscapes of Iceland, exploring the stunning waterfalls, visiting the famous Blue Lagoon, taking a boat tour to see whales and puffins, and driving the Golden Circle.
Q: What are the pros and cons of visiting Iceland in the summer months?
A: The pros of visiting Iceland in the summer months include mild weather and long days, making it ideal for outdoor activities. The cons include peak tourist season, which means higher prices and crowds, and higher risk of rain and wind. (See Also: Best Time to Visit Yaba Market – Peak Shopping Experience)
Q: What are the pros and cons of visiting Iceland in the shoulder season?
A: The pros of visiting Iceland in the shoulder season include lower prices and fewer crowds, making it a great time to visit if you’re looking for a more relaxed atmosphere. The cons include cooler weather and shorter days, and some tourist attractions may be closed.
Q: What are the pros and cons of visiting Iceland in the winter months?
A: The pros of visiting Iceland in the winter months include best time to see the Northern Lights, making it a great time to visit if you’re interested in seeing this natural phenomenon. The cons include harsh weather and short days, and some tourist attractions may be closed.