The summer season has a way of bringing the world to life. When birds are chirping and the sun is shining, it seems there are so many exciting things to do. Waterparks, picnics, and camping trips galore! It’s the perfect time to plan a trip.
Everybody loves a good getaway. In the Land of Ice and Fire, the month of June ushers in a range of activities throughout the country. With the spirit of summer in full swing, it’s undoubtedly one of the best times to visit.
Iceland in June boasts long days, temperate climates, and the beginning of the excitement of summer festivities. While these are by all means great highlights, there are more specific reasons you should consider paying a visit.
1. Icelandic Weather In June
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Although this has been briefly mentioned, it’s best to elaborate on the bigger picture.
Despite being the third warmest month of the year, temperatures in June generally don’t exceed 20°C. And that’s every now and then. The average temperature is a pleasant 7°C, so you need not worry about it getting too hot.
June is the month with the least amount of wind and rainfall, but it’s still a good idea to bring plenty of warm clothing and layers. The weather is infamously inconsistent, so it’s a good idea to play it safe.
The weather is unpredictable, but most days are still perfect for planning as many outdoor adventures as you can. Iceland has an array of nature-based activities to choose from, but more on that later.
2. There Are So Many Things To Do In Iceland In June
June serves as the official welcome of the summer months. During this month, many popular attractions come out of hibernation and begin opening their doors to tourists and locals alike.
If you’re a keen bean when it comes to nature and sightseeing, you’re going to want to put whale and puffin watching on your list. Summer is the best time to pay them a visit as they are more active and visible during the mating season.
Can you see the Northern Lights in Iceland in June? Sadly, no. But walking food tours, volcanoes, stand-up paddling and geothermal swimming pools are equally as enjoyable. And that’s only the tip of the Icelandic iceberg.
3. The Midnight Sun
Iceland prides itself on its notoriously long daylight hours. In the summer months, one can expect an average of 18 to 20 hours of daylight per day. Sunshine isn’t always guaranteed, but you still have more time and flexibility to make the most of the outdoors.
In Iceland, from mid-May to the end of July, it will not get dark at night. In fact, at some point, the sun will not set at all. Whilst the lack of darkness means you won’t be able to see the Northern Lights, it’s also a cause for celebration.
The Sumarsólstöður – or Summer Solstice – is one of the country’s most famous natural phenomena, celebrated with folklore and bonfires. This day in late June sees the highest peak of daylight hours, meaning the sun is visible for a full 24 hours!
It’s not uncommon for local photographers and travelers to chase down the Midnight Sun in hopes of capturing a photograph. The glow of the Midnight Sun caressing Mount Esja in the background makes for a gorgeous photographic subject.
4. Road-tripping
With wet and icy conditions gripping the countryside throughout the majority of the year, road-tripping in Iceland is rarely an option. However, with the official summer months drawing in, the significant change in weather conditions allow for the road trip of dreams.
During the winter, many roads become frozen in ice and blocked by snow. Driving is no longer an option. In June, with most of the winter snow melted, many Highlands roads are re-opening for traffic.
This makes June the perfect time to explore the beautiful countryside with a self-driving tour. Popular routes and attractions include:
- the Glacier Lagoon
- the Golden Circle
- Skaftafell National Park
- Þjórsárdalur Valley
- And more!
It’s a good idea to plan your trip beforehand to ensure all roads are cleared. But if you’re not up for planning it all yourself, you could have a tour guide take you on a Jeep.
Camping In The Countryside
Iceland is home to some of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes. And what better way to experience this abundance of nature than to fully immerse yourself on a camping trip?
The weather in Iceland in June is warm enough to go camping outdoors overnight. It’s a cheaper option compared to staying in a hotel, but the real bonus is having the sunset right on your doorstep.
Unfortunately, camping outside of designated camping areas is not allowed. This is to avoid any negative environmental impact and preserve Iceland’s natural environment.
Luckily, Iceland offers many well-equipped camping grounds. These campsites are spacious with excellent facilities, and some even offer Wi-Fi.
There’s no need to bring your own gear either. There are rental companies that happily offer all camping gear you’ll need for your mini expedition.
Whilst it is technically summer, it’s still Iceland, so keep those thermals handy.
Conclusion
From geothermal pools to day trips in Reykjavik, you have every reason to travel to Iceland in June. If the long days and cool weather isn’t enough, say yes to the thrill of adventure.
There’s no greater joy than the once-in-a-lifetime experience of catching the Midnight Sun in all its glory. Some may even find the same joy in freely road tripping through the gorgeous Icelandic countryside.
Few other places can offer such a diverse array of exciting experiences all in one go. Not compared to the Land of Fire and Ice.
With a new adventure lurking around every corner, it’s good to keep an open mind while you travel in Iceland. You never know where you’ll find yourself next.
