March in Iceland offers a unique blend of late-winter beauty and early signs of spring, making it a magical time to visit. The landscapes often remain snow-covered, creating a picturesque contrast against emerging greenery as the days grow longer.
By month's end, March experiences about 10 to 13 hours of daylight. That gives travelers ample time to explore waterfalls, geysers, and volcanic landscapes under the soft, shifting light of the season.
March is also a prime time for northern lights tours in Iceland, as darker skies persist through most of the month. With fewer crowds compared to the summer months, Iceland tours in March provide a quieter, more personal experience.
Marine wildlife enthusiasts can enjoy opportunities for whale watching in Iceland. March's colder coastal waters host a variety of species.
Planning trips to Iceland in March requires preparation, as the weather can be unpredictable. Expect a mix of snow, rain, and sunshine. Travelers should pack warm, waterproof clothing and sturdy footwear to ensure comfort.
Guided March tours or tour packages are a wise choice for first-time visitors. They're also ideal for exploring Iceland’s remote regions safely. If you prefer independence, renting a four-wheel-drive vehicle is recommended for navigating icy roads during your March self-drive tour.
Top March Multi-Day Tours and Vacation Packages in Iceland
For those looking to fully immerse themselves in the magic of Iceland, March tour packages offer expertly curated itineraries that combine convenience, adventure, and unforgettable experiences.
Carefully planned March tours showcase the best of Iceland’s natural wonders while ensuring a seamless travel experience. Here are some highlights:
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5-Day Northern Lights Winter Vacation Package in Iceland with Ice Caving & the Blue Lagoon: Discover Iceland’s winter wonders with visits to ice caves, glaciers, and stunning landscapes on this guided adventure.
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3-Day Northern Lights & Ice Cave Tour to the Golden Circle, South Coast & Glacier Lagoon: Explore the stunning South Coast, glacier lagoons, and an ice cave with expert guidance.
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6-Day Northern Lights Adventure Package in Iceland with Ice Caving: Savor the South Coast, Golden Circle, and ice caves on this expertly guided tour. Chase the northern lights at night.
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2-Day Ice Cave & South Coast Trip: Catch the best of Iceland. Explore the breathtaking South Coast, Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, and stunning waterfalls on this compact tour.
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8-Day Guided Tour of the Complete Ring Road of Iceland: Circle Iceland’s Ring Road while chasing the northern lights. See waterfalls, coastlines, volcanoes, and geothermal areas.
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6-Day Guided Small Group Tour of the Complete Ring Road of Iceland: Discover Iceland’s best winter destinations with an expert guide. Explore the Ring Road, from the Golden Circle to the Eastfjords.
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2-Day Northern Lights & Ice Cave Tour with Glacier Hiking & Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon: Experience the beauty of Iceland’s South Coast, Jokulsarlon, and a blue ice cave on this two-day adventure.
Best March Self-Drive Tours in Iceland
Self-drive tours let you explore Iceland's scenic beauty at your own pace, offering the freedom to tailor your itinerary and stop whenever inspiration strikes. Longer days and manageable road conditions in March make these tours a perfect mix of freedom and adventure.
Whether you’re traversing glaciers, hiking to waterfalls, or hunting for the northern lights, a self-drive tour allows you to fully immerse yourself in Iceland’s diverse landscapes. Here are some top options for a self-drive Iceland tour in March:
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7-Day Northern Lights Self-Drive Tour Through the Golden Circle and South Iceland: Chase the northern lights while exploring the Golden Circle, South Coast, and Blue Lagoon.
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6-Day Northern Lights Self-Drive Tour in the South Coast of Iceland with Ice Caving: Experience Iceland's highlights, including the Golden Circle, Jokulsarlon, and the South Coast.
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One-Week Northern Lights Self-Drive Tour in Winter with Ice Caving: Combine independence with adventure as you explore Iceland’s top landmarks and hunt for auroras.
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5-Day Northern Lights Winter Self-Drive Tour with the Golden Circle & Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon: Perfect for shorter stays, this tour includes Iceland’s must-see attractions.
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Full 10-Day Northern Lights Self-Drive Tour of the Ring Road of Iceland: A complete circuit of Iceland’s highlights, including waterfalls, fjords, ice caves, and the northern lights.
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One-week Winter Self-Drive Tour of the Complete Ring Road of Iceland: Explore Iceland’s Ring Road, Golden Circle, and top winter attractions while hunting the northern lights.
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3-Day South Iceland Northern Lights Winter Self-Drive Tour with Ice Caving: Visit Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and explore the magical blue ice caves in Vatnajokull Glacier.
Best March Tours with Activities in Iceland
March tours often feature exciting activities that allow travelers to fully embrace Iceland's unique winter and early spring offerings. These experiences highlight the country's natural beauty and provide unforgettable adventures. Popular options include:
Top March Tours from Reykjavik
March is an ideal time to embark on day trips from Reykjavik, offering a perfect mix of winter adventures and early spring discoveries. With longer daylight hours and fewer crowds, it's easy to explore Iceland’s top attractions and hidden gems within a day’s reach of the capital.
From geothermal wonders to glacier hikes, these excursions promise unforgettable experiences tailored to the magic of the season.
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The Golden Circle Tour from Reykjavik: Explore the iconic Golden Circle, including Thingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall, from the capital city.
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The Northern Lights Tour from Reykjavik: Embark on an exciting evening tour to hunt the elusive northern lights with expert guides who know the best viewing spots.
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The Whale Watching Tour from Reykjavik: Set sail from Reykjavik for an unforgettable whale-watching adventure, spotting majestic marine life in Iceland's coastal waters.
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The Horse Riding Tour from Reykjavik: Enjoy a scenic horseback ride on the gentle Icelandic horses near Reykjavik. This exciting tour is suitable for all experience levels.
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Small Group Tour of Snaefellsnes Peninsula from Reykjavik: Discover the essence of Iceland, featuring dramatic coastlines, lava fields, and the spectacular Mt. Kirkjufell.
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The South Coast of Iceland Tour from Reykjavik: Explore Iceland's stunning South Coast on this full-day tour, featuring waterfalls, black sand beaches, and breathtaking glacier views.
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The Northern Lights Boat Cruise from Reykjavik: Cruise into the darkness of the Atlantic Ocean for stunning views of the northern lights. Start from the Old Harbor of Reykjavik.
Best Accommodations in Iceland in March
March in Iceland offers a diverse array of experiences, from natural wonders to thrilling adventures. Whether you're planning a chic city break or an epic wilderness expedition, you'll find top accommodations in Iceland that suit your preferences and budget.
From luxury hotels and boutique guesthouses to remote cabins and cozy hostels, there’s something for every traveler. Be sure to book your rooms well in advance to secure the best rates.
Renting a Car in Iceland in March
For those embarking on self-drive tours in March, renting a car in Iceland is one of the best ways to explore the country's diverse landscapes at your own pace. Driving in March requires caution, but it also provides incredible flexibility to stop and explore hidden gems along the way.
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Four-Wheel Drive Vehicles: Essential for navigating icy or snowy roads.
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Road Safety: Familiarize yourself with Iceland’s road conditions and weather forecasts daily with resources like SafeTravel.is or Road.is.
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Extras to Consider: Request GPS navigation and a Wi-Fi hotspot for added safety and convenience.
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Before arrival, read up on driving in Iceland in March.
Maximizing Your Exploration: Domestic Flights in Iceland
If your time in Iceland is limited, but you still wish to explore beyond Reykjavik and the South Coast, consider booking domestic flights to experience more of Iceland's must-see destinations.
Iceland is not a large country, but it has incredible regional and geographic diversity that you won't want to miss. Flights make these regions accessible, saving precious travel time while offering spectacular aerial views.
Embrace the Magic of March in Iceland
March in Iceland is a time of transition, blending the enchantment of winter with the freshness of early spring. From self-drive adventures, guided March tour packages, to tailored glacier hikes or northern lights hunts, the month offers unforgettable experiences.
With thoughtful preparation, you'll experience a smooth and enriching journey. Select the right accommodations, rent a suitable vehicle, or ride a plane to explore distant regions.
Embrace the spirit of adventure and an openness to Iceland’s dynamic weather, and you’ll create lasting memories on your March trip to Iceland. Let the breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality make this a journey you’ll never forget.