Visiting Iceland in October is a special experience. It’s a time of transition, when you can enjoy a blend of both summer and winter activities. Plus, you’ll encounter fewer crowds than you would during the peak summer months.
However, the October Iceland weather is notoriously unpredictable. You’ll need to plan carefully and prepare for anything. Temperatures can fluctuate wildly, and you should expect strong winds and rain. Driving conditions can be tricky, so you’ll need to be aware of the weather conditions and consider renting a 4WD vehicle.
Despite the challenges, October offers incredible opportunities. It’s a great time to view the Northern Lights, take a glacier tour, and explore Iceland’s stunning landscapes.
This guide will give you the essential information you need to plan your October adventure, including what to expect from the weather, what activities are available, what to pack, and how to stay safe. We want to help you make the most of your trip to Iceland during this fascinating time of year.
Understanding Iceland’s October Weather
October in Iceland is a mixed bag. You’ll likely experience some stunning scenery, but you should also prepare for unpredictable weather. Here’s what you can expect:
Temperature and Daylight Hours
If you’re hanging around Reykjavik, expect average temperatures to hover between 2°C and 7°C (36°F to 45°F). On a sunny day, it might get up to 15°C (59°F). Head to the highlands, though, and you’ll likely see temperatures drop, maybe even to 0°C (32°F) or below.
Keep in mind that the days get noticeably shorter as October progresses. On October 1st, you’ll see the sun rise around 7:37 AM and set around 6:56 PM. By October 31st, sunrise is closer to 9:08 AM, and sunset is around 5:13 PM. In other words, you’ll have fewer daylight hours to explore.
Wind and Precipitation
October is known for its increasing wind intensity, with gusts sometimes reaching speeds comparable to mid-winter. Expect average wind speeds to increase from about 18.2 km/h (11.3 mph) at the start of the month to around 20.1 km/h (12.5 mph) by the end. Be prepared for gusts up to 27 km/h (16.8 mph).
Rain, snow, sleet, and hail are all possible, especially if you’re visiting coastal areas. You can expect about a 45% chance of a wet day during your visit. Reykjavik tends to be a bit drier, with a roughly 41% chance of rain on any given day.
Preparing for Your October Trip: Packing and Driving
Iceland in October can be an amazing experience, but you have to be prepared for the weather. Here’s what you need to know about packing and driving.
Essential Packing List
The key to packing for Iceland in October is layers, layers, layers. Temperatures can change quickly, so you want to be able to adjust your clothing accordingly.
- Think thermal base layers, fleece jackets, and a waterproof, windproof outer shell.
- Don’t forget your warm winter gear: a good coat, warm pants, a hat, gloves, and a scarf.
Waterproof clothing and sturdy footwear are a must. You’ll likely encounter rain, and there’s a chance of icy conditions, especially later in the month.
- Waterproof gloves and a hat are also a good idea to protect you from wind and rain.
Driving Considerations
Driving in Iceland in October can be tricky. You might encounter rain, wind, fog, snow, and even ice. Be sure to check road conditions before you head out on Road.is. This website will tell you about any roads that are closed or have hazardous conditions.
A 4WD vehicle is highly recommended, especially if you’re planning to explore areas outside of Reykjavik. If you’re nervous about driving in potentially snowy or icy conditions, you might want to stick to Southern Iceland, where the driving conditions tend to be less challenging.
Chasing the Northern Lights in October
October is a fantastic time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland. You’ll get an average of 15 hours of darkness each day, which dramatically increases your chances of spotting the Aurora Borealis.
To get the best views, you’ll want to escape the light pollution of Reykjavik. Head out to places like Þingvellir National Park or the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. These areas offer wide-open spaces and minimal artificial light, giving you a clearer view of the night sky.
Before you head out, check online resources for aurora forecasts and cloud cover predictions. The Icelandic weather office is a great place to start. You can also download aurora tracking apps to your phone. These apps will send you alerts when aurora activity is high, so you don’t miss your chance to witness this incredible natural phenomenon.
Things to do in Iceland in October
October is a fantastic time to visit Iceland because you’ll be able to see so many of the country’s most popular destinations, but you’ll avoid the peak-season crowds. Here are some of the things you may want to add to your itinerary.
Popular destinations
Even in October, it’s easy to drive the Golden Circle, a 186-mile (300 kilometer) route that takes you past some of Iceland’s most spectacular sights:
- Gullfoss waterfall
- Geysir geothermal area
- Þingvellir National Park
The Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is also well worth a visit. You’ll be treated to stunning views of icebergs and wildlife, and boat tours may still be available, depending on weather conditions.
The Snaefellsnes Peninsula, often called “Iceland in Miniature,” offers diverse landscapes and charming villages.
Unique experiences
If you’re feeling adventurous, consider glacier hiking or ice cave tours. Possible destinations include Sólheimajökull, Vatnajökull, and Svinafellsjokull Glacier. Do keep in mind that ice cave tours generally don’t kick off until late October or November, depending on ice conditions.
For relaxation, you can visit Iceland’s geothermal hot springs, such as the Blue Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, Sky Lagoon, or Hrunalaug. Be sure to book your Blue Lagoon tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.
Snorkeling or diving in the Silfra fissure is a truly unique experience in crystal-clear glacial water. The water temperature is around 2°C (35°F), but the visibility can exceed 100 meters (328 feet).
Reykjavik exploration
While you’re in Iceland, take some time to explore Reykjavik’s cultural attractions, like Hallgrímskirkja church and the Einar Jónsson Museum. Stroll along Laugavegur shopping street, and enjoy Reykjavik’s nightlife and dining scene.
October events and festivals
October in Iceland means fewer crowds than the summer months, but you can still find plenty to do.
The Reykjavik International Film Festival (RIFF) typically runs from late September into early October. If you love movies, this is a great opportunity to see independent films from around the world.
October 9th is John Lennon’s birthday. Every year, the Imagine Peace Tower on Viðey Island is lit in his honor. The tower becomes visible on October 9th and remains lit until December 9th. You can see it from all over the capital region.
Halloween is also becoming more popular in Iceland, and you’ll find different Halloween-themed parties and events throughout the month.
In Conclusion
Visiting Iceland in October means planning ahead and preparing for unpredictable weather. Packing the right clothes and paying close attention to road conditions are essential.
But October also offers some real advantages. You’ll encounter fewer tourists than you would during the summer months, and the conditions are often ideal for spotting the Northern Lights. Because October is a “crossover” month, you can enjoy a mix of summer and winter activities.
If you’re willing to embrace the challenges and prepare accordingly, you can have an unforgettable adventure in Iceland in October. Whether you want to explore glaciers, relax in hot springs, or chase the aurora borealis, Iceland offers a truly magical experience during this transitional time of year. Just be sure to check the weather forecast before you head out each day!