The summer rush is long over, and the winter festivities have yet to begin, making October a peaceful time to visit. Enjoy colorful fall scenery and shorter days, taking advantage of one of the best times of year to view the Northern Lights. Read this monthly guide to learn more.
October in Iceland: A Comprehensive Guide
## Weather
While the old Norse calendar, with its division of the year into only two seasons – summer and winter – marks October as the commencement of winter, this shouldn’t deter you from planning a visit to the captivating island of Iceland. October presents a unique blend of both seasons, offering a compelling travel experience. The days remain sufficiently long, allowing ample time for engaging in a variety of outdoor pursuits. Simultaneously, the nights grow dark enough, and often remain free of cloud cover, providing excellent opportunities to witness the mesmerizing dance of the Northern Lights. You can expect over eleven hours of daylight at the beginning of the month, gradually decreasing to around eight hours by the month’s end. Furthermore, most roads remain accessible, leading to many of Iceland’s stellar and breathtaking locations.
In the southern regions of Iceland, temperatures during October typically fluctuate between 36 and 44 degrees Fahrenheit. However, venturing into the northern reaches of the country reveals a colder and potentially snowier landscape. It’s crucial to remember that Iceland is known for its highly changeable weather conditions. To prepare accordingly, it is highly recommended to pack warm layers of clothing that can be easily added or removed. Waterproof outerwear is essential to protect against rain, snow, and wind. Furthermore, comfortable walking shoes with a robust grip are indispensable for navigating the diverse terrains and potential snow cover encountered throughout the country.
## Crowds & Costs
October stands out as one of the least crowded months to visit Iceland. The peak summer tourist season has subsided, and the festive celebrations of early winter are yet to commence. This lull in tourism translates to a more peaceful and intimate experience when visiting Iceland’s popular attractions. You will find yourself able to enjoy the stunning landscapes and iconic sights with fewer crowds, allowing for a deeper connection with the natural beauty.
Moreover, airlines and hotels often introduce shoulder-season rates during October. These rates offer substantial savings compared to peak season prices, making it an especially appealing time to visit if you are seeking to avoid the throngs of tourists and are also looking to secure a more budget-friendly travel experience. The combination of fewer crowds and reduced costs makes October an ideal period for exploring Iceland’s wonders.
## Where to Go
October presents a distinctive opportunity to enjoy the best of both seasons in Iceland. This is further enhanced by the absence of large tourist crowds, creating an ideal setting for renting a car and exploring the island at your own relaxed pace. Many travelers choose to begin or conclude their Icelandic adventure with a few days spent in the vibrant capital city of Reykjavík. From Reykjavík, a classic route involves exploring the popular attractions along the renowned Golden Circle and the dramatic Southern shore, starting with the historical and geological wonders of Thingvellir National Park and culminating at the rugged and captivating coastline of Vík and Dyrhólaey.
For those with more time to dedicate to their Icelandic journey, continuing to circumnavigate the entire island along the Ring Road provides an unparalleled experience. As you venture eastward, it’s vital to remain mindful of potential poor driving conditions and occasional road closures that can occur during this time of year. Some of the highlights along this route include the breathtaking Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and the adjacent Diamond Beach, where icebergs gleam like jewels on the black sand. Further east, you will discover the rugged fjord coastline, featuring the charming town of Höfn, the majestic Vestrahorn mountain, the opportunity to spot wild reindeer, and the picturesque village of Seyðisfjörður. Venturing north, you’ll encounter the geothermal wonders and volcanic craters of the northern coast, including Mývatn, Dimmuborgir, Goðafoss, and the cultural hub of Akureyri. A detour to the Westfjords, the Snæfellsnes peninsula, and the historic Reykholt is also highly recommended for those seeking to immerse themselves further in Iceland’s diverse landscapes and rich history.
## What to Do
Take full advantage of the changing foliage, the diminished tourist crowds, and the reasonable daylight hours that October offers by embarking on invigorating day-long hikes into the interior of the country. While most multi-day hiking options are no longer available during this period, the opportunities for shorter, immersive hikes are abundant.
Consider a trek through the forested landscapes of Þórsmörk in the south, or explore the rhyolite mountains in Landmannalagaur in the Highlands. Mount Snæfell in the west offers stunning panoramic views, while Dyrfjöll in the east provides a challenging but rewarding hiking experience. Alternatively, choose from a selection of trails located in and around the eastern fjords, renowned for offering some of the country’s best hiking opportunities. For a unique and memorable experience, consider a combined Super Jeep and hiking tour. These tours provide access to locations that are more difficult to reach independently, as well as transport you to areas with minimal light pollution, increasing your chances of witnessing the mesmerizing flashes of color of the Northern Lights dancing across the night sky.
Other engaging outdoor activities to consider include riding an Icelandic horse into the Reykjadalur Valley to experience the naturally warming hot springs and a geothermal river. You could also join a whale-watching tour departing from Skjálfandi Bay outside of Húsavík or Faxaflói Bay from Reykjavík, offering the chance to spot a variety of whale species in their natural habitat. Another worthwhile tour is a boat excursion to explore Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, where you will cruise across the serene lake amidst the awe-inspiring icebergs calved from a distant glacier. For those seeking a thrilling winter activity, snowmobiling across the Vatnajökull and Langjökull glaciers is a must-try. Glacier hiking opportunities are also plentiful throughout the country, with Sólheimajokull being a particularly popular choice.
Although diving or snorkeling the Silfra fissure in Þingvellir National Park is available year-round, October offers ideal conditions as the air temperature typically remains above freezing. Don a drysuit and immerse yourself in the pristine Lángjökull glacial waters that flow between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, creating a truly unique and unforgettable experience.
## Events in October
**Lighting of Imagine Peace Tower:** Every year on October 9th, Icelanders and visitors alike gather around Yoko Ono’s Imagine Peace Tower monument. This monument, designed in the form of a wishing well, serves as a beacon of peace, lit in honor of John Lennon’s birthday and the couple’s enduring legacy of promoting world peace.
**Iceland Airwaves:** Perhaps Iceland’s most renowned music concert, Iceland Airwaves is an annual event held in mid-October that attracts music enthusiasts from across the globe. Attendees come to experience the vibrant sounds of Iceland’s best indie and alternative bands, creating a dynamic and unforgettable musical atmosphere.
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