If you’re considering a self-drive tour in Iceland, you may be wondering when is the best time of year to go. The answer depends on what kind of experience you want to have. Each season in Iceland brings its own special charms and challenges, so it’s important to consider the seasonal differences before embarking on your journey. In this blog post, we will explore the different seasons in Iceland and discuss which one might be the best fit for your self-drive tour.
Summer
When it comes to self-drive tours in Iceland, the summer months are the most popular. This is because the roads are mostly clear during this time and the days are much longer. As the days last almost 20 hours, you can get more out of your visit and have plenty of time to explore the country. The temperatures are also warmer, ranging from 8°C to 18°C, so you don’t have to worry about the extreme cold. It’s important to note that the roads can be more crowded and tour prices will be higher compared to other times of the year. To get the best deals and avoid peak prices, it’s a good idea to plan your self-drive tour for late June or early July.
Fall
Fall is a great time of year for self-drive tours in Iceland. The weather is mild, with temperatures ranging from 10-15 degrees Celsius (50-59 Fahrenheit). The days are still long, so you can make the most of your time and explore the country at your own pace. The vibrant colours of autumn blanket the Icelandic countryside, making it a stunningly beautiful time to be outdoors. Plus, with fewer tourists around, you won’t have to compete with crowds to take in the sights. In October and November, you may even catch the Northern Lights if you’re lucky.
Winter
Exploring Iceland by self-drive tours during the winter months can be an exciting and unique experience. The weather may be cold, but the landscape is still breathtakingly beautiful. Winter in Iceland can bring its own set of challenges, but with the right planning and preparation, a self-drive tour can be a wonderful way to see the country. Before setting out on a winter self-drive tour in Iceland, it is important to make sure you are properly prepared for the conditions. Have a well-equipped vehicle for winter driving and dress warmly, as temperatures can drop quickly and snow and ice are possible even during milder winter days.
Spring
Spring is the ideal season for self-drive tours in Iceland. From April to May, the weather starts to warm up, and days become longer, allowing for more daylight hours for exploring. Temperatures typically range from 30°F to 48°F, making it a great time to visit the country. The landscapes also start to bloom during this time of year. The fjords, glaciers, and rivers start to thaw and offer stunning views that are best enjoyed while on a self-drive tour. As well, in April and May, you may catch a glimpse of the beautiful Northern Lights in the night sky.