Why Visit Iceland in April?
April in Iceland is like stepping into a land caught between two seasons. It’s not quite the icy grip of winter, and not yet the buzzing bloom of summer – but it brings the charm of both.
The mountains still wear their snowy crowns, while the valleys begin to shed their icy blankets in favour of soft moss and the earliest signs of spring.
Daylight stretches longer, the Northern Lights haven’t completely disappeared, and you’ll often feel like you’ve got the landscape all to yourself.
This shoulder season comes with its perks. Fewer crowds, better rates on flights and hotels, and the chance to enjoy Iceland’s attractions in peace.
Roads become more accessible, tours run more frequently, and the country slowly awakens from its winter hibernation. There’s a distinct sense of change in the air – meltwater cascading from cliffs, birds returning to the coasts, and geothermal steam rising gently from thawing earth.
If ever there were a time to experience Iceland’s shifting moods and raw beauty, it’s April.
Is April a Good Time to Visit Iceland?
The short answer? Absolutely.
April offers one of the most dynamic and rewarding windows for travel. While you might need to keep a scarf handy and be ready for the odd snow flurry, this is the time of year when Iceland reveals both its wintry wonder and its spring promise.
The weather can be a mixed bag – sunshine one moment, snow the next – but that’s part of the charm. On average, you’ll experience temperatures between 0 and 5°C, though this can vary depending on where you go.
With tourism still in its quieter phase, April lets you explore iconic sites without the queues.
You might find yourself alone at a thundering waterfall or enjoying the serenity of a geothermal pool under a sky all to yourself.
Nature is beginning to stir. Lambs are being born, rivers are running faster, and the vibrant greens of summer are just beginning to tease the horizon.
It’s also a great time for budget travellers, with many hotels and tours offering off-peak prices.
Best Things to Do in Iceland in April
April invites you to embrace a bit of everything.
You can chase waterfalls that thunder with fresh meltwater – like Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss – where spray glistens in the spring sunlight, often producing glorious rainbows.
The geothermal spas are irresistible at this time of year. Whether it’s the iconic Blue Lagoon, the elegant Sky Lagoon, or the rustic charm of the Secret Lagoon in Flúðir, there’s nothing like slipping into warm waters as crisp air tickles your cheeks.
Geysers, too, put on a spectacular show in April.
At Haukadalur Valley, Strokkur continues to erupt every few minutes, shooting steaming water high into the sky.
Ice cave tours are still running in places like Vatnajökull, offering one of your last chances before the melt makes them unsafe.
Snowmobiling is also in full swing, particularly on Langjökull and Sólheimajökull glaciers, where the white expanse seems to stretch into infinity.
It’s also a brilliant time for a road trip. The Ring Road is generally clear by April, allowing for ambitious itineraries that loop the island or focus on specific regions.
With fewer cars on the road and longer daylight hours, you can cover a lot while soaking in Iceland’s stunning diversity – from lava fields to black sand beaches, glaciers to grassy fjords.
And if you prefer a slower pace, museums in Reykjavík offer warmth and culture, from Viking sagas to geological marvels.
Can You See the Northern Lights in April?
Yes, you still stand a chance of catching the Aurora Borealis in April – especially during the first half of the month.
The skies are darker early on, and if the solar activity is just right, you might witness that ethereal dance of green and pink light across the heavens.
Your best strategy is to get out of town and avoid light pollution. Look for accommodation in rural areas or take part in guided tours that specialise in aurora hunting.
Staying somewhere like the Hill Hotel in Flúðir can make all the difference.
Not only is it surrounded by wide, open skies, but the peace and quiet of the countryside offer a perfect vantage point.
With minimal artificial light and comfortable rooms to return to, it’s the kind of place where you can simply step outside and look up in awe.
Top Events and Festivals in April
April’s events capture both Iceland’s quirky spirit and its deep cultural roots.
One of the most charming is Sumardagurinn Fyrsti, or the First Day of Summer. Celebrated on the first Thursday after 18 April, it marks the beginning of the old Icelandic summer according to the historical calendar.
While the weather may still be anything but summery, Icelanders embrace the occasion with parades, children waving flags, and community celebrations.
In the northern town of Akureyri, adrenaline-seekers gather for AK Extreme – a snowboarding and music festival that turns the mountains into a playground.
Expect high-flying tricks, live DJs, and après-ski vibes with an Icelandic twist.
Meanwhile, in the Westfjords, music lovers head to Ísafjörður for the delightfully named “I Never Went South” festival, where indie artists and local bands perform over the Easter weekend.
Families in Reykjavík can enjoy the Children’s Culture Festival, which offers workshops, performances, and exhibitions designed to engage young minds.
It’s a great way to keep the little ones entertained while tapping into Iceland’s love of the arts.
Best Places to Visit in Iceland in April
April is a month of freedom. Many of Iceland’s most beautiful areas become accessible again, making it the ideal time to explore beyond the capital.
The Westfjords begin to open up after months of isolation.
This northwestern region is wild, remote, and utterly breathtaking.
Visit Dynjandi waterfall, marvel at the sea cliffs of Látrabjarg, and stop by the Arctic Fox Centre for a glimpse into the life of Iceland’s only native mammal.
In East Iceland, the fjords and forests start shaking off winter’s grip.
It’s one of the best places to spot wild reindeer, especially around Egilsstaðir and Höfn. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is particularly captivating in spring light, with icebergs bobbing serenely on the water.
Closer to Reykjavík, the Borgarfjörður region offers a condensed dose of Iceland’s geological marvels.
Wander the mossy trails around Reykholt, take in the sheer force of the Deildartunguhver hot spring, and watch ribbons of water spill from the lava rocks at Hraunfossar.
Reykjavík itself remains a great base for day trips.
From here, you can explore the Golden Circle, the South Coast, or even venture west to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.
The city has a buzzing food scene and enough museums and bars to keep things lively in the evenings.
What to Expect from the Weather in April
The weather in Iceland in April can only be described as unpredictable – sometimes gloriously so.
Expect an average temperature of around 5°C in the south, with colder conditions up north and at higher altitudes.
Rain, sleet, sunshine, and snow can all happen within the same day, so it’s essential to dress in layers and carry waterproofs.
While snow might linger in rural areas, it rarely sticks in Reykjavík.
That said, the mountain peaks remain white-capped, creating postcard-perfect backdrops for photos.
You’ll also start to notice longer, brighter days – a welcome change after the darkness of winter. So, if you’re wanting to see the Northern Lights, you’ll have to stay up that little bit extra.
Driving in Iceland in April: What You Need to Know
Driving in April is generally safe and incredibly rewarding, especially if you’re planning a self-drive trip.
Most major roads, including the Ring Road, are clear by this time, although it’s still wise to check daily conditions on safetravel.is. Mountain roads and F-roads remain closed, but there’s more than enough accessible territory to explore.
Rental companies often provide studded tyres during this transitional period, and it’s recommended to go for a 4×4 just in case.
Drive cautiously – black ice can still appear in the mornings, especially in shaded areas.
And keep your headlights on at all times – it’s the law in Iceland and makes for safer travel in changing light conditions.
How Much Daylight Does Iceland Get in April?
April is a month of growing light, which is one of the joys of visiting at this time.
Early in the month, you’ll see about 13 hours of daylight, with the sun rising around 6:45 a.m. and setting after 8 p.m.
By the end of April, that stretches to nearly 17 hours, with daylight from around 5 a.m. until almost 10 p.m.
This abundance of daylight opens up your itinerary considerably.
You’ll be able to explore more without rushing and perhaps enjoy golden-hour views at both sunrise and sunset – perfect for photographers and nature lovers alike.
What to Pack for Iceland in April
Packing for April in Iceland is an exercise in preparedness.
Layers are your best friend. Start with thermals, add a fleece or wool jumper, and top it off with a waterproof jacket.
Waterproof trousers are handy for waterfall adventures, and sturdy boots are a must for uneven terrain.
Don’t forget gloves, a hat, and a scarf – it’s still chilly, especially in the wind.
Bring swimwear for the hot springs, sunglasses for bright days, and moisturiser to combat the dry air.
And definitely bring your camera – this place is stunning that will leave you more gobsmacked than Jeff Goldblum in Jurassic Park.
Spend a Night (or Two) at the Hill Hotel near Flúðir
If you’re looking for a place that combines comfort, location, and local charm, the Hill Hotel near Flúðir is a winner.
Nestled in the peaceful countryside yet just a short drive from major sights like Gullfoss and Geysir, it offers the best of both worlds.
You’re also a stone’s throw from the Secret Lagoon – one of Iceland’s oldest and most enchanting hot springs…and as a guest at The Hill hotel you also get 20% off (just saying!)
The rooms at the Hill Hotel are cosy and well-equipped, perfect for winding down after a day of exploration.
The staff are warm and full of local knowledge, always ready with recommendations or a good story.
You’ll wake up to a hearty breakfast and a warm coffee in had ready to continue your adventure through Iceland’s natural wonders.
Come nightfall, the lack of light pollution makes this an ideal spot to watch for the Northern Lights.
Wrap yourself in a blanket, step outside, and you might catch that famous green glow dancing across the stars.
Back indoors, a locally brewed beer or a glass of wine in our cozy restaurant rounds off the day perfectly.
Planning Your April Adventure
April is a versatile month to visit, whether you’re planning a short city break or an epic road trip.
For shorter stays, basing yourself in Reykjavík or Flúðir allows for exciting day tours while still enjoying creature comforts.
If you’ve got more time, consider a full loop around the Ring Road or a deep dive into one of Iceland’s lesser-explored regions.
Be sure to book tours and accommodation in advance, especially around Easter when locals also head out to explore their country.
Whether you’re into hiking, history, hot springs, or high-adrenaline adventures, April makes it all possible.
Final Thoughts: The Magic of April in Iceland
April in Iceland is full of contrasts – thaw and frost, sunshine and snow, serenity and surprise.
It’s a time when the country begins to stir from its long winter slumber, offering travellers a front-row seat to the seasonal shift.
The waterfalls are wild, the landscapes vast and unspoiled, and the days long enough to truly lose yourself in the moment.
Whether you’re soaking in a steaming pool under a pale blue sky, trekking across a glacier, or watching the Northern Lights from a quiet country hotel, April delivers unforgettable memories.
So layer up, embrace the unpredictability, and let Iceland in April show you something extraordinary—one magical moment at a time.