Weather in August

August is the last summer month in Iceland and a wonderful time to visit if you want green landscapes, long travel days, and plenty to see around the country. The average temperature is around 10.3°C (50.5°F), which may not sound especially high, but warmer days can still reach 20°C (68°F) or more depending on conditions and location.

August still offers very good daylight, with around 155 hours of sunshine on average, although by late August the evenings begin to grow darker again. Early in the month the days still feel very long, while later in August you start to notice the return of proper evening light levels, especially compared with June and July. Average precipitation is around 62 mm, so it is smart to be ready for some rain and cooler summer nights.

August is also a great month for enjoying Iceland’s wildlife. Birdlife is still very active, summer landscapes remain lush, and it is an excellent time for whale watching and nature-focused travel around the country.

Driving in Iceland in August

August is one of the best months to rent a car in Iceland and take a road trip around the country. Roads are easier to travel than in winter, the weather is milder, and most major summer routes are open. It is an ideal month for longer self-drive travel, scenic detours, and flexible sightseeing across several regions.

Even in summer, Icelandic weather can still change quickly, so it is important to check road and weather conditions before heading out. If you plan to travel to more remote regions or into the Highlands, a 4WD is still a smart choice. Off-road driving is strictly forbidden in Iceland, and it is always important to stay on marked roads and tracks.

During August, most roads are open, including mountain roads that usually open from mid-June into July depending on conditions. It is a very good month for road trips around the Ring Road, the Westfjords, North Iceland, and the South Coast. Late summer also brings a nice balance between long days and slightly calmer evening light.

If you are not comfortable driving yourself, many bus tours and private tours are also available during August.

If you decide to drive in Iceland here you will find useful tips and more extensive information.

What to wear

August is still a summer month in Iceland, but it is wise to pack for variety. Days can feel pleasantly mild, especially in sunshine, while evenings can turn cool and rain is always possible. The best approach is to pack light summer basics along with practical layers.

The average summer temperature in Iceland is around 10°C (50°F), but warmer days can go much higher, while cooler days may still feel fresh. August is often very comfortable for travel, but the weather can still shift quickly from sunshine to rain, so flexible clothing is the key.

We recommend bringing layers that are easy to add or remove during the day. A sweater, reliable rain gear, and good walking shoes are all useful for late-summer travel in Iceland.

• Hiking boots - If you are planning on only staying in Reykjavík then sneakers might be enough but if you will be travelling around the country and staying outside you need good hiking shoes that will keep you warm.
• Base layer - Warm layers under your clothes might be the best thing you bring to Iceland. Usually regular underwear and a T-shirt are fine during summer, but if you get cold easily it does not hurt to bring long wool or thermal underwear.
• Fleece or wool - A fleece jacket or an Icelandic wool sweater is ideal for cooler days and evenings.
• Water and windproof jacket - A good outer layer is essential for rainy days and breezier weather.
• Water and windproof pants - Useful for wet trails, waterfalls, and changeable weather.
• Hats, gloves and warm socks - Optional for some travelers in August, but still worth packing for cooler evenings or windier areas.
• Swimsuit - You are going to want to dip in our warm swimming pools or hot springs after a long day outside.

Frequently asked questions about Iceland in August