Iceland Climate And Geography: Guide to Iceland Travel

Summer is by far the most popular time to travel to Iceland. The midnight sun makes for 24 hours of light, and hotter temperatures in general with average temperatures in Reykjavik being around 50 F and highs up to mid-70s.  Most of the country is more accessible and you don't have to worry much about a storm interfering with your plans. That being said, the larger tourist crowds at all of the main sites, as well as the higher prices for just about everything do give summer its setbacks.

Spring Climate in Iceland

Try visiting in Spring instead. While the days may not be as long and the weather is not quite as warm and predictable, it does still offer a close comparison without the large crowds and high prices. 

Fall Climate in Iceland

Fall can be a very unpredictable time of year, with storms putting the day's plans at risk of being canceled. Fall is typically the wettest time of year, and therefore not recommended for camping or hiking trips. The fall colors can be beautiful, and you can see a good number of calm and beautiful days, so if you are not tight on time and able to be flexible, this can be a great time to visit. Fall (as well as late winter) are two of the best times for spotting the Aurora Borealis as well.

Winter Climate in Iceland

Wintertime also has its pros and cons. While the weather is colder (average winter temperatures in Reykjavik are around 30 F) and roads can become impassable after a snowstorm, the lights glistening off the snow and the spectacle of Christmas lights against the white backdrop can make it a magical time to travel to Iceland. Be prepared for the lower temperatures and more rugged climate, but winter can also offer immense beauty.

Location and Geographical Features of Iceland
 

Iceland is a volcanic island, about the same size as Portugal or the state of Kentucky, and is located just south of the Arctic Circle in the Atlantic Ocean east of Greenland. It is situated above the confluence of the Atlantic and Arctic Oceans and rests along the boundary of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates diverge. The Mid-Atlantic Ridge runs across Iceland from southwest to northeast and it is believed the island is growing by about 5 cm per year as the fissure splits apart adding more land mass.  Iceland is a hotspot for geologic activity and is believed to be one of the youngest landmasses on the planet. Its location over a hotspot creates many volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and naturally existing geysers.

Landforms and Natural Landscapes

Roughly half of Iceland is a volcanic desert, with most of that being located in the Central Highlands area which is largely uninhabited. An estimated 10% of Iceland's land mass is also covered by glaciers, though they are in retreat.  The island mainly consists of plateau, mountains, and fertile lowlands. Few birch forests exist, however a reforestation project is underway to try and replenish them.

Human Geography of Iceland

Only about a fifth of the country is used for grazing and pasture lands down near the populations bases along the coastlines, and only 1% of the entire island is used for cultivation.

Most settlements are located in the southwest of the country, leaving roughly 80% of the island uninhabited. As one of Europe's largest islands (second after Great Britain only) it is also one of the world's most sparsely populated countries.

Iceland offers memorable experiences in every season, from cruising past glaciers and icebergs to relaxing in natural hot springs, walking on volcanic landscapes, and watching the Northern Lights light up the night sky. With its mix of dramatic coastlines, waterfalls, wildlife, and wide-open spaces, Iceland is a destination that feels unlike anywhere else.

Adventure Life helps you experience Iceland in a way that suits how you like to travel. Options include small-ship cruises along the rugged coastline, guided land tours to the country’s most well-known sights, and thoughtfully planned itineraries that balance adventure with comfort. Expert guides and well-designed routes take the stress out of planning, so you can focus on the experience itself.

With years of experience organising trips to remote and nature-focused destinations, Adventure Life brings strong local knowledge, trusted guides, and personalised trip planning. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip to see Iceland in a different season, their tours and cruises make it easier to enjoy everything this remarkable country has to offer.

What type of climate is Iceland?

Iceland has a cool, maritime climate, shaped by the surrounding ocean and the Gulf Stream. This means winters are cold but not extreme, and summers are mild rather than hot. The weather can change quickly, so it’s common to experience sun, wind, and rain all in one day.

Is Iceland colder than the US?

Not always. While Iceland is colder than many parts of the US, its winters are often milder than those in places like the Midwest or Northeast. Summer temperatures in Iceland are also similar to spring or fall weather in cooler US states.

What kind of geography does Iceland have?

Iceland’s geography is shaped by volcanic and glacial activity. You’ll find lava fields, volcanoes, glaciers, waterfalls, black sand beaches, and rugged coastlines. The island sits on a tectonic plate boundary, which explains its frequent geothermal activity and dramatic landscapes.

What are 5 facts about Iceland?

• Iceland is located just south of the Arctic Circle.
• About 10% of the country is covered by glaciers.
• It sits on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where two tectonic plates slowly move apart.
• Most people live near the coast, with large areas of the interior uninhabited.
• Despite its northern location, Iceland has a relatively moderate climate compared to other places at similar latitudes.

This combination of climate and geography is what makes Iceland such a distinctive destination, no matter the season you visit.