Iceland in April: Travel Guide, Weather, Top Sights, and Things to Do

Iceland in April is a month of change. Although snow can still appear, the weather is less severe than in winter. This makes it easier to pursue your plans without major disruptions. Early in the month, you can explore the natural ice caves of glaciers and witness the Northern Lights dance across the dark Icelandic sky. Toward mid-April, temperatures rise, and increasing daylight hours give more time for all your sightseeing wishes. Iceland in spring is the best of both worlds and a time of year you won’t want to avoid!

April weather in Iceland can be muddy and unpredictable as the country transitions from winter to a brief spring. Iceland’s spring is short-lived, as the climate mainly alternates between extended winter and summer. Along with nature's revival, you can expect about 58 mm (2.2 in) of precipitation and 20 km/h (13 mph) fast wind. The average temperature in Iceland in April is 0°C (32°F), which means it’s not as frigid as deep winter but still cold enough to require proper gear, with rain or snow likely at any time.

• Temperature Range: Spring remains chilly and sometimes snowy, with temperatures in Iceland in April changing throughout the regions. The weather in Reykjavik in April averages 1°C (33.8°F) at night and 7°C (44.6°F) during the day, with 12 days of precipitation. Up in Akureyri, near the Arctic, temperatures dip to -1°C (30.2°F) at night, reaching 7°C (44.6°F) during the day, with about 5.7 days of snow. On the South Coast, Vestmannaeyjar island sees temperatures rise from 3°C (37.4°F) to 6°C (42.8°F), along with 17 days of rain.
  
  
• Daylight Hours: The daylight hours in Iceland in April are increasing. You can expect 13 hours of daylight on April 1st and then 16 by the end of the month. On April 1st, the sun sets in Iceland at 8:19 PM, and by the 30th, it gets dark at 9:49 PM. Sunrise shifts from 6:45 AM at the start of the month to 5:02 AM by the end.

April falls within Iceland’s off-season when the crowds are small, and travel costs and accommodations prices are lower. The things to do in Iceland in early April include all of the winter activities, like skiing and Northern Lights hunting. However, later in the month, when the weather improves and the days are longer, you’ll have more time to explore the must-see sights of the island. Here is what to do in Iceland in April:

• Doing the Golden Circle Tour: Complete the iconic Golden Circle route by visiting the Thingvellir National Park, and one of its main attractions, Öxarárfoss waterfall, Geysir hot springs, and the wonders of Gullfoss waterfall. Spring weather means you’ll avoid the summer crowds that flock to these sights. With organized Golden Circle Tours, you can even include additional sights, like the Kerid crater or numerous hot springs.
  
  
• Catching the Northern Lights in April: April is considered the last month to see the Northern Lights in Iceland, with better chances in the first half of the month before they fade until next winter. This cosmic spectacle can be stunning thanks to Iceland’s position near the Arctic Circle, but rainy or overcast conditions in April can limit visibility. That’s why expert-led Northern Lights tours often head into the countryside—like parts of West Iceland—where light pollution is minimal and clear skies are more likely. Guides track aurora forecasts and weather patterns to find the best spots, and you’ll travel by minibus, Super Jeep, or boat, adding to the thrill of the chase.
  
  
• Seeing Geysers and Waterfalls: Witness Iceland’s raw power as melting April snow fuels roaring rivers and breathtaking waterfalls like the Golden Circle's Gullfoss. For a burst of geothermal energy, head to Haukadalur Valley, where Strokkur erupts every 4–10 minutes, shooting boiling water 15–20 meters (49–66 feet) into the air. It’s a mesmerizing contrast of fire and ice, showcasing nature at its finest.
  
  
• Watching Whales in Iceland in April: Enjoy the resurgence of wildlife in Iceland in April by joining whale watching tours to the waters around the island. As winter fades, the country’s waters come alive, with whales, incredibly social orcas, and dolphins becoming more active along the shores. Set sail from Dalvik, Olafsvik, or Akureyri towns and venture into the open seas to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

• Spotting Puffins in April: Witness the return of Iceland’s birdlife as several species migrate back to the island in early April. Start at Myvatn, a volcanic lake that acts as a paradise for birds like Whooper Swan, Gyrfalcon, and more. The month also marks the return of Icelandic puffins to the island's shores. For an up-close yet respectful view, join puffin tours from Reykjavik and catch a glimpse into their fascinating lives without disturbing them.
  
  
• Exploring Lava Caves: Explore Iceland's lava caves and discover the mysterious underground world. Book guided caving tours to explore narrow tunnels and learn the geological history behind these formations. Raufarhólshellir cave, the 4th largest of such structures in Iceland, stands out as the top destination, as its close location to Reykjavik is accompanied by colorful walls and the last remaining original stalactites.
  
  
• Hiking Glaciers: Trek through Iceland's glaciers in April, where the crisp spring air meets sweeping views of snowy plains. Spend hours hiking and walking on the glaciers, navigating deep crevasses and interesting ice formations. The early weeks of the month present an opportunity to explore natural blue ice caves before they start to melt.
  
  
• Visiting Reykjavík in April: Immerse yourself in the charming atmosphere of Iceland’s capital, Reykjavík, before or after your nature adventure. Visit the city’s bars, restaurants, and diners to expand your culinary world with Icelandic dishes. After that, dive into the local museums and festivals happening in April. Various Reykjavík tours and excursions let you experience the city in a balanced way.

Iceland's spring weather fluctuates, with rain, snow, and sunshine all possible in a single day. Because of Iceland's unstable nature, wearing layered clothes is essential to staying comfortable. Start with a moisture-wicking synthetic base layer to manage sweat, followed by a fleece jacket for warmth. Top it off with a windproof, waterproof outer layer to shield against the elements. Sturdy, broken-in, and waterproof hiking shoes are a must for sightseeing, as mud and distances can make walks challenging.

For a trip in April, pack gloves and a scarf to stay warm and protected from rain and snow. Wear sunglasses and sunscreen during sunny spells to shield your eyes and skin from the rays. As you explore, store your essentials in a weather-resistant backpack to safeguard them during your trip.

April is at the end of Iceland’s low season, making it an excellent time for budget-friendly adventures. You can explore the most famous sights with fewer crowds and lower travel and accommodation costs. Just be aware that the dramatic weather changes and driving challenges require some preparation.

• Fewer crowds: Traveling in April means you’ll avoid the summer tourist rush, allowing you to experience off-season Iceland at your own pace. Enjoy activities like swimming at the Blue Lagoon with shorter lines and explore popular landmarks peacefully, free from large tourist crowds.
  
  
• Cheaper travel: April is one of the cheapest times to visit Iceland, as flights and other travel costs are lowered to meet the lack of demand. Tour operators release discounts to fill in the spaces in springtime adventures.
  
  
• Spring transformation: The fourth month experiences an Icelandic springtime change as snow melts, giving way to green moss and blooming flowers. This is the perfect time to visit waterfalls as they surge from the larger amount of meltwater. As the month progresses, increasing daylight hours allows for more extended exploration.
  
  
• Weather preparedness: Always inspect the forecast because April in Iceland can bring snow, wind, and rain. Showers are common, so it’s wise to pack waterproof gear. Dress in layers: start with a warm base layer, add a mid-layer for insulation, and finish with a windproof, waterproof jacket for fluctuating temperatures.
  
  
• Driving in Iceland in April: Icelandic roads in April can be challenging, even paved ones. Temperatures often drop below freezing, causing icy conditions, especially at higher altitudes and in remote areas. The Ring Road highway remains mostly open, but unpaved F-roads stay closed until summer. Always rent a 4-wheel-drive vehicle, as it provides a better grip on the road and more stability. Before your travels, check the road conditions to be prepared for anything when driving in Iceland.
  
  
• Accommodation: There are many budget-friendly options when searching for where to stay in Iceland in April. Reykjavík is a go-to spot, with Fosshotel offering a wide range of room options for families, couples, and solo travelers. For a more secluded stay along the Ring Road in the south, Geirland Hotel offers a cozy retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the capital.

Traveling to Iceland in April with kids is perfect, as the month is celebrated through various festivals and holidays. Some links with worldwide events, like Easter and April Fools, while others happen only in Iceland. Plan your vacation accordingly so you won’t miss out on a festival or holiday that interests you.

• Icelandic Easter: A spring holiday that falls between late March and April. The date changes each year as it’s based on the first Sunday after the first full moon of spring. The celebration lasts five days, from Thursday to Monday, with many shops, restaurants, and bars operating on reduced hours. Easter Sunday is the main celebration day, marked by church services and family gatherings. A holiday tradition is Páskaegg, large chocolate Easter eggs filled with candy and a small message inside, enjoyed by locals and visitors.
  
• Children's Culture Festival: A six-day-long festival held in Reykjavík to celebrate children’s creativity, allowing them to display their works at various institutions and cultural centers. Events and workshops are free, including concerts and shows related to the overall celebration.
  
• Reykjavík Open 2025: A chess tournament in Reykjavík held at Harpa Conference Hall. It’s a chance to test out your skills against other participants from around the world. Titled members can participate for free, while non-titled players must pay to join.
  
• Reykjavík International Literary Festival: A literature event that invites authors and editors worldwide to gather and read, discuss cultural creations, and participate in writing workshops. This gathering is the perfect chance to network with fellow members of the literary world.
  
• The Fossavatns Trail: An old and prominent cross-country skiing competition. It’s held in Ísafjörður, the cultural center of the Westfjords, and participants have to race against each other in different competitions. The 50 km (31 mi) walking contest is the most awaited event on the last day.
  
• Aldrei Fór ég Suður: A music festival whose title translates to “I Never Went South,” a nod to the fact it takes place in Ísafjörður, Westfjords. With a diverse lineup of Icelandic musicians, this festival is known for its community participation and free admission!
  
• Iceland Writers Retreat: A literary event held in Reykjavík where writers can come and improve their craft through small-group workshops and panels hosted by various Icelandic authors.
  
• Sigló Freeride Weekend: A sports competition in the northernmost town in Iceland, Siglufjörður. Participants compete in winter sports events, like snowboarding and skiing. Male and female competitions are separate. You can also be a viewer and enjoy the music and nature between matches.

Yes, you can see the Northern Lights in Iceland in April, particularly in the early part of the month. The nights are long enough for optimal viewing, and tours led by expert guides who know the best spots for aurora sightings still operate. However, as the month goes on and daylight hours increase, the likelihood of seeing the Northern Lights diminishes. The phenomenon becomes rarer later due to shorter nights.

In April, the best places to see the Northern Lights in Iceland are locations away from city lights, where the skies are darker. The viewing spots also depend on the aurora activity and overall cloudiness. Top spots include Thingvellir and Snaefellsnes Peninsula—areas that are far from light pollution but relatively close to Reykjavík.

The weather in Iceland during April is quite treacherous, as it often blends winter and spring conditions. Temperatures average 0°C (32°F), and you can expect both rain and snow on the same day. Strong winds are common in the coastal areas in the north and south. As the month goes on, the days get progressively longer, with over 16 hours of daylight by the 30th, giving more time to explore despite the ever-changing weather.

Spring in Iceland typically lasts from late March to May. During this period, the days gradually get longer, and the first signs of new growth begin to appear. However, due to its northern location, Icelandic springtime can be dramatic, with rapidly changing weather conditions. You may experience a mix of sunshine, rain, snow, and even strong winds, making it essential to be prepared for anything while enjoying the evolving landscape.

April in Iceland is considered part of spring, though winter conditions can still linger across the island. The month begins with colder weather, with temperatures hovering around freezing. As weeks pass, the climate improves, temperatures rise, and daylight hours increase to 16 hours.

Yes, April is a good time to visit Iceland, as the weather starts to improve and more sightseeing opportunities appear. The early weeks of the month are perfect for visiting ice caves or trying skiing, as the crowds are smaller. As part of the off-season, hotels, air travel tickets, and tours cost less than during the peak season.

Yes, there is still some snow during April in Iceland, particularly around the glaciers, the Highlands, and higher elevations. The northern parts of the island see an average of 5.7 days of snowfall per month, while Reykjavík experiences only about 2.1 days. Most precipitation around the country falls in a mix of rain and snow up until the end of April.

Yes, you can visit ice caves in Iceland in April, including the Crystal Ice Cave in Vatnajökull and natural caves in Langjökull. However, as temperatures rise throughout the year, most natural caves start melting, making April the last chance to see them. Exceptions include the Katla Ice Cave and the Langjökull Ice Tunnel, which remain open year-round. Always check local conditions and tour availability, as access can change with the weather.

The rainiest months in Iceland are October and March, receiving an average of around 86 mm (3.3 in) of precipitation, with about 14.5 days of rain. In comparison, April gets around 58 mm (2.2 in) of precipitation, most of which falls as a mix of rain and snow, sometimes both. The month experiences about 8 rainy days, but the amount and frequency of rain can vary depending on the region.

Iceland isn't particularly green in April, as the island is still transitioning from winter to spring. As the month progresses, temperatures gradually rise, and the melting snow reveals blooming flowers and moss. Coastal regions begin showing signs of greenery earlier in the month, but the Highlands and glacier areas remain covered in ice and snow. So, while you’ll see some early signs of spring, the island is still largely dominated by winter conditions.