April is an amazing month to visit Iceland. It marks the escape of Icelandic farm animals, with young lambs, calves, and other wildlife filling the meadows, signaling the arrival of spring. The first blooms start to appear, and by the end of the month, Iceland celebrates its first official day of summer.
There are numerous festivals throughout Iceland in April, providing endless opportunities for enjoyable activities. Road conditions significantly improve in rural areas, making driving much easier. It’s an ideal time for a self-driving tour around the island. April, known as a transitional month, offers advantages both of winter and summer. With fewer tourists, prices are relatively lower, despite the extended daylight hours and summer activity options, providing a more summery experience.
Check these two itineraries - Suitable for April!
South and West – 7 Days Itinerary
Summary
7 Days / 6 Nights
Vehicle – All types are suitable
Season – All year round
Main areas of this itinerary:
Golden Circle, Iceberg Lagoons, Snæfellsness Peninsula, Lava Falls … Read More
Classic Iceland – 9 Days Itinerary
Summary
9 Days / 8 Nights
Vehicle – All types are suitable
Season – All year round
Main areas of this itinerary:
Ring Road, Golden Circle, Iceberg Lagoons, East Fjords, Dettifoss, Myvatn … Read More
Weather and daylight hours in April:
The average temperature in April in Iceland is around 1°C to 7°C, making it the first month of the year when temperatures rise above freezing. The Icelandic weather is notoriously unpredictable, with a mix of sun, rain, snow, and calm changing rapidly. While occasional snow may occur early in April, the warmer temperatures mean it won’t last long. April brings approximately 13-16 hours of daylight per day, with days lengthening as the month progresses, culminating in the celebration of Iceland’s transition to brighter summer months.
Northern Lights in April in Iceland:
One significant advantage of traveling to Iceland in April is that the Northern Lights are still active. The key is to venture out later at night when the daylight recedes, providing a chance to witness the northern lights illuminating the sky. However, it’s important to note that the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon and might not always be visible due to rain, clouds, or other weather conditions.Things to do in April in Iceland:
In April, you can rent bikes in Reykjavik and explore the city when weather permits. This allows you to cover more areas and see Iceland’s colorful capital from a different perspective. Some favorite spots include Grotta Lighthouse, Grandi Harbor, the Solfar ‘Sun Voyager’ sculpture, and the Pearl building. The warmer weather in April makes it suitable for visiting more distant sites like the Blue Lagoon, the Secret Lagoon, GeoSea geothermal baths, and the Myvatn Nature Baths.
Driving the Ring Road in Iceland:
Most of the roads in Iceland are snow-free by April, and driving around the Ring Road is an ideal way to enjoy the ever-changing landscapes. The Ring Road around Iceland is the most famous route, passing through all the major and central sites, leaving lasting memories. If you don’t have time for the full Ring Road, shorter trips in the south and west regions are also possible, either independently or through guided group tours.
Events and festivals in April in Iceland:
Eve FanFest:
April 12-14, a gathering of EVE Online gaming enthusiasts from around the world.
Reykjavik Children’s Culture Festival:
April 17-22, featuring art, workshops, and performances throughout Reykjavik, especially enjoyable for families.
First Day of Summer:
Typically falls on the last Thursday in April, marked by parades and festivities across the country.
Aldrei For Eg Sudur (I Never Went South):
A music festival in Isafjordur in the West Fjords, showcasing popular Icelandic bands.
AK Extreme:
A four-day snowboarding and music festival in Akureyri in northern Iceland, bringing together top snowboarders and the country’s music scene.
Driving in Iceland in April:
Regular roads, especially those in towns, villages, and the Ring Road, are generally open for driving and are cleared of snow by April. However, F-roads and gravel roads in the highlands are still closed during this period and typically open around June. It’s crucial to check road conditions before embarking on any journey.
As the weather in April is unpredictable, having a 4X4 or jeep with good traction can be beneficial for exploring outside the city. Always check road conditions before heading out, especially if venturing into more remote areas.
