May Tours

Best May Tours in Iceland

Explore Iceland's largest selection of May tours and packages. Find the best activities and experiences in Iceland for the month of May.
Find a unique experience

Select starting location

Select dates

Starting dateFinal date

Add travelers

1 traveler
Free cancellation
Best price guarantee
Easy Booking & Cancellation
Most Popular Website about Iceland

May Tours

Refine the results by using the filters

23
...
45
We offer so much more

Explore an unequalled wealth of tours and packages

Verified customer reviews

Read first-hand reviews by customers from across the world

Visiting Iceland in May

As winter's grip loosens and spring takes hold, May ushers in one of the most transformative periods in Iceland. Lush landscapes slowly emerge from their snowy blanket, revealing colorful wildflowers and increasingly lively wildlife. Days extend dramatically, bathing the island in prolonged twilight and hinting at the approaching midnight sun of summer.

For travelers, May presents a unique opportunity to witness Iceland in transition. Popular attractions like the Golden Circle driving route, Reynisfjara black sand beach, and the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon offer breathtaking views with fewer crowds than the peak summer months. Off the beaten path, the symphony of migratory birds, especially the iconic puffins, creates a mesmerizing spectacle against roaring waterfalls and serene fjords.

However, venturing into Iceland in May demands some foresight. While the weather leans toward the milder side, sudden rain showers or brisk winds are not uncommon. Proper attire, including waterproof gear, is essential. Those looking to explore the highlands should remain vigilant regarding road conditions and consider the expertise of guided tours. Four-wheel drive vehicles remain a prudent choice for the adventurous at heart.

Frequently asked questions

What are the best day tours in May in Iceland?

One of the best day tours in May in Iceland is an eight-hour small-group tour of the Golden Circle attractions that has an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 435 reviews and costs approximately 97 USD per person. In addition to seeing Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall, and Geysir geothermal area, visitors will enjoy a stop at an Icelandic ice cream farm for a snack.

Another highly rated day tour in May in Iceland is a three-hour glacial hike at Skaftafell, rated 4.7 out of 5 stars on average from over 487 reviews. This fantastic tour costs roughly 105 USD per person.

Also, this top-rated 12-hour tour of Iceland's Snaefellsnes Peninsula with Icelandic music on board is another top-rated day trip in Iceland in May, awarded 4.7 out of 5 stars from 326 reviews. The tour costs about 136 USD and includes visiting the best sights in this area of West Iceland.

What is the cheapest Icelandic day tour in May?

One of the cheapest day tours in Iceland in May is a fantastic trip to the Myvatn Nature Baths. This tour costs approximately 50 USD per person, lasts three hours, and is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars from 50 reviews. Soak away any aches and pains from your travels and relax in the natural hot springs!

Another cheap Icelandic day tour in May is a glacier lagoon boat tour, which costs about 49 USD per person. By booking this experience, travelers can enjoy a 30-minute amphibian boat trip out onto the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon. This fabulous tour has an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from over 440 reviews.

This cheap day tour in May in Iceland is a family-friendly lava cave tour of Vidgelmir lava cave. This adventure tour costs around 58 USD per person and is rated 4.7 by 111 travelers.

What are the best vacation packages in May in Iceland?

One of the top-rated multi-day packages in Iceland in May is this 10-day self-drive tour of the Ring Road and the Snaefellsnes Peninsula rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 237 reviews. This tour costs about 3,823 USD, including a rental car and nine nights of accommodation.

Another highly rated Icelandic vacation package for May is a self-drive tour of the Ring Road and the Golden Circle. This eight-day package has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 201 happy travelers. The tour costs roughly 2,811 USD, including seven nights of accommodation.

This seven-day self-drive tour of the Icelandic Ring Road is also a top choice for May. It has an average rating of 4.7 stars by 101 travelers. It takes you to the most beautiful places in Iceland for approximately 2,425 USD, including six nights of accommodation and a rental car!

What is the cheapest multi-day package in May in Iceland?

The cheapest multi-day vacation tour in Iceland for May is a five-day city break with optional activities. This vacation package costs around 316 USD per person and includes airport transfers and four nights of accommodation in Reykjavik.

The second cheapest vacation package in Iceland in May is this three-day budget self-drive tour of Iceland with hot springs and the Golden Circle. It costs approximately 442 USD, including car hire and accommodation.

The third-cheapest multi-day vacation package in May is a West Iceland to Snaefellsnes Peninsula road trip. This three-day package costs about 501 USD, including car rental, accommodation, and breakfast every morning.

Is it worth it to visit Iceland in May?

Yes, visiting Iceland in May is worth it! May is a great time to visit Iceland. The days are long, the weather is improving, and North Iceland becomes more accessible thanks to the reduced chance of snow. As summer approaches in Iceland, more outdoor tours open up to visitors.

During May, you can enjoy snorkeling in Silfra, whale and puffin watching, ice caving in the Langjokull glacier, and more. May is also an excellent time to visit the numerous hot springs around Iceland, as the warmer weather makes it more pleasant than it can be in the snow. May is the beginning of the summer season but is still before the peak, so visitors have access to more outdoor tours, but attractions are less busy than at the height of summer in June and July.

Can you see the northern lights in May in Iceland?

It’s practically impossible to see the northern lights in Iceland in May. This is because the long daylight hours make it too bright to see them.

The best conditions for viewing the northern lights are total darkness and little to no light pollution. By the time May rolls around in Iceland, it’s simply not dark enough to see the northern lights.

The best time to see the aurora borealis in Iceland is between September and early April, when there are still several hours of pitch-black darkness every day. However, you might be able to see the midnight sun in May in Iceland.

Can you see the midnight sun in Iceland in May?

Yes, it’s possible to see the midnight sun in Iceland in May. The midnight sun is brightest around the summer solstice (June 21). However, from mid-May onwards, there are only a few hours of darkness every night, meaning this is an excellent time to visit if you want to experience the midnight sun.

Because nearly all of Iceland is below the edge of the Arctic Circle, the sun does technically set in Iceland — but it doesn’t get dark. Extended daylight hours mean visitors can enjoy more sightseeing or relaxing outside.

How should I dress in May in Iceland?

The weather is steadily getting warmer in May, and there's little chance of snow, but it can still get chilly. The average temperature in May in Iceland is around 40-50 F (4-10 C).

We recommend you pack warm clothes with you, and if you plan on traveling to the countryside where it's colder, wear warm outerwear, gloves, and a hat that covers the ears.

What unique flora can I observe in May in Iceland?

May is a delightful month to observe the awakening of Icelandic flora. Travelers can witness the blooming of wildflowers, including the Arctic Thyme and Sea Mayweed. In some areas, lupines begin to cover the landscape, creating picturesque purple fields.

Are all the roads, including the Ring Road, accessible in May?

By May, most main roads, including the Ring Road, are typically accessible. However, some highland roads might remain closed due to lingering snow. Always check road conditions before setting out on a trip.

Are wildlife tours popular in May?

Yes, May is an excellent time for bird enthusiasts, especially for those looking to see puffins. Whale-watching tours also gain popularity during this month.

Is May a crowded month for traveling in Iceland?

While May is increasingly popular due to its milder weather, it's still considered shoulder season. This means attractions might be less crowded than in peak summer months.

What water activities are available in May?

With ice melting away, various water activities become accessible. These include river rafting, kayaking, and boat tours among icebergs in places like the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon.

Can I visit the highlands of Iceland in May?

The Icelandic Highlands generally begin to open up in late June. While some areas might be accessible in May, many remain closed. Always check current conditions and road closures before planning a visit.

Do I need to book accommodations in advance when traveling in May?

It's recommended to book accommodations in advance, especially if you're visiting popular areas. While May isn't the peak season, the increasing popularity means accommodations can fill up.

Can I do glacier tours in May?

Yes, glacier tours are available in May. Whether you choose hiking or ice cave exploration, guided tours ensure a safe and memorable experience on the glaciers.

Are geothermal pools and hot springs accessible in May?

Absolutely! Geothermal pools and hot springs, like the Blue Lagoon or Secret Lagoon, are open year-round. Natural hot springs in the countryside can also be a delightful experience in May's milder weather.

What cultural experiences can I expect in Iceland during May?

May offers travelers an opportunity to experience Icelandic culture through its art festivals, local cuisine with fresh seasonal ingredients, and traditions that mark the beginning of warmer months. Many museums and cultural sites, which might have limited hours during winter, also operate with extended hours.
Link to appstore phone
Install Iceland’s biggest travel app

Download Iceland’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Iceland’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.