The land of fire and ice, Iceland is a destination that has been captivating travelers for centuries. With its breathtaking landscapes, unique culture, and the Northern Lights, it’s no wonder why Iceland is a top destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers. But, when is the best time to visit Iceland? The answer to this question is crucial in planning a trip to this enchanting country. In this blog post, we will delve into the best time to visit Iceland in September, exploring the weather, activities, and events that make this month a great time to visit.
The Weather in September
September is a great time to visit Iceland as the summer crowds have dissipated, and the weather is still mild and pleasant. The average high temperature in September is around 12°C (54°F), while the average low temperature is around 6°C (43°F). However, the weather in Iceland can be unpredictable, and it’s not uncommon to experience sudden rain showers or strong winds. It’s essential to pack layers and waterproof gear to ensure a comfortable trip.
The days are also getting shorter in September, with the sun setting around 7 pm. This means that you’ll have more time to explore the country’s stunning landscapes without the crowds, and you might even catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights.
Activities in September
Activities in September
September is an excellent time to visit Iceland for outdoor activities, such as hiking, glacier hiking, and ice climbing. The summer crowds have dissipated, and the weather is still mild, making it ideal for exploring the country’s stunning landscapes. Here are some of the top activities to do in September:
Hiking and Trekking
Iceland is home to some of the most beautiful and unique landscapes in the world, and September is a great time to explore them on foot. The summer crowds have dissipated, and the weather is still mild, making it ideal for hiking and trekking. Some of the top hiking trails in Iceland include:
- The Laugavegur Trail: A 55 km (34 mi) trail that takes you through some of Iceland’s most stunning landscapes, including glaciers, hot springs, and black sand deserts.
- The Fimmvörðuháls Trail: A 22 km (14 mi) trail that takes you to the summit of Eyjafjallajökull, one of Iceland’s most famous volcanoes.
- The Landmannalaugar Trail: A 15 km (9 mi) trail that takes you through a colorful and unique landscape of rhyolite mountains and hot springs.
Glacier Hiking and Ice Climbing
September is a great time to visit Iceland’s glaciers, as the weather is still mild, and the crowds have dissipated. Glacier hiking and ice climbing are two of the most popular activities to do on the glaciers, and September is an excellent time to try them. Some of the top glaciers to visit include: (See Also: Best Time to Visit Luxor and Aswan – Ultimate Travel Guide)
- Vatnajökull: Europe’s largest glacier, which covers over 8% of Iceland’s landmass.
- Mýrdalsjökull: A glacier that covers the infamous Eyjafjallajökull volcano.
- Sólheimajökull: A glacier that flows from the Mýrdalsjökull ice cap.
Whale Watching and Puffin Watching
Whale Watching and Puffin Watching
September is a great time to go whale watching and puffin watching in Iceland. The summer crowds have dissipated, and the weather is still mild, making it ideal for spotting these amazing creatures. Here are some of the top whale watching and puffin watching spots in Iceland:
Whale Watching
Iceland is home to a wide variety of whales, including orcas, humpback whales, and minke whales. September is a great time to go whale watching, as the summer crowds have dissipated, and the weather is still mild. Some of the top whale watching spots in Iceland include:
- Reykjavik: The capital city of Iceland is a great place to go whale watching, with several tour operators offering guided tours.
- Akureyri: Located in the north of Iceland, Akureyri is a great place to go whale watching, with several tour operators offering guided tours.
- Húsavík: Located in the north of Iceland, Húsavík is a great place to go whale watching, with several tour operators offering guided tours.
Puffin Watching
Iceland is home to a large population of puffins, and September is a great time to see them. The summer crowds have dissipated, and the weather is still mild, making it ideal for spotting these amazing birds. Some of the top puffin watching spots in Iceland include:
- Reykjavik: The capital city of Iceland is a great place to see puffins, with several tour operators offering guided tours.
- Akureyri: Located in the north of Iceland, Akureyri is a great place to see puffins, with several tour operators offering guided tours.
- Westman Islands: Located off the coast of Iceland, the Westman Islands are a great place to see puffins, with several tour operators offering guided tours.
Events in September
September is a great time to visit Iceland for cultural events and festivals. Here are some of the top events to attend in September:
Reykjavik International Film Festival
The Reykjavik International Film Festival is a popular event that takes place in September. The festival showcases a wide variety of films from around the world, including Icelandic films, documentaries, and shorts. (See Also: Hogenakkal Falls Time to Visit – Best Season to Explore)
Secret Solstice Music Festival
The Secret Solstice Music Festival is a popular event that takes place in June, but it also has a smaller festival in September. The festival features a wide variety of music, including rock, pop, and electronic music.
Reykjavik Jazz Festival
The Reykjavik Jazz Festival is a popular event that takes place in September. The festival features a wide variety of jazz music, including local and international artists.
Conclusion
September is a great time to visit Iceland, with mild weather, fewer crowds, and a wide variety of activities and events to enjoy. From hiking and glacier hiking to whale watching and puffin watching, there’s something for everyone in Iceland. Whether you’re interested in culture, nature, or adventure, September is a great time to visit this enchanting country.
Recap
Here are the key points to remember when planning a trip to Iceland in September:
- The weather in September is mild, with average highs of 12°C (54°F) and average lows of 6°C (43°F).
- The summer crowds have dissipated, making it easier to explore the country’s stunning landscapes.
- September is a great time for outdoor activities, such as hiking, glacier hiking, and ice climbing.
- Whale watching and puffin watching are popular activities in September.
- September is a great time to attend cultural events and festivals, such as the Reykjavik International Film Festival and the Secret Solstice Music Festival.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best time to visit Iceland?
A: The best time to visit Iceland depends on your interests and preferences. However, September is a great time to visit, with mild weather, fewer crowds, and a wide variety of activities and events to enjoy.
Q: What is the weather like in September in Iceland?
A: The weather in September in Iceland is mild, with average highs of 12°C (54°F) and average lows of 6°C (43°F). However, the weather can be unpredictable, and it’s not uncommon to experience sudden rain showers or strong winds. (See Also: Best Time Of Year To Visit Thailand? Discover When To Go)
Q: What are the top activities to do in Iceland in September?
A: Some of the top activities to do in Iceland in September include hiking, glacier hiking, ice climbing, whale watching, and puffin watching.
Q: What are the top cultural events and festivals in Iceland in September?
A: Some of the top cultural events and festivals in Iceland in September include the Reykjavik International Film Festival, the Secret Solstice Music Festival, and the Reykjavik Jazz Festival.
Q: Is September a good time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland?
A: Yes, September is a good time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland, as the nights are dark enough to view the phenomenon, and the weather is still mild.