Iceland in June | Everything You Need To Know

Camping in Iceland in June

If you like camping, you'll love camping in Iceland in June. And even if you're a newbie, there are beautiful campsites all over the country equipped with showers, toilets, swimming pools, and plenty of other comfortable amenities.

Even if you're an experienced camper, you can't just pitch your tent anywhere. You must find a designated campsite, as camping in the wilderness in Iceland is illegal. Tjalda and Camping Card are fantastic websites for locating the closest campsite and its available facilities.

The weather in Iceland in June is still unpredictable, so bring lots of layers if you plan to sleep outside and regularly check the weather forecast. For light sleepers, don't forget your eye mask since it never gets dark in June.

Hiking in Iceland in June

The weather in June is excellent for hiking in Iceland, with many trails and remote routes opening up for the warm season. There's no better way to see the untouched natural beauty of the Icelandic countryside than exploring it on foot. And since summer is better for camping, you can comfortably bring a tent for longer adventures.

The roads to the Highlands open in June, as does the Laugavegur Trail, which connects the Landmannalaugar and Thorsmork nature reserves. You can find both guided and unguided hiking tours to these regions.

Mount Esja is close to Reykjavik and filled with popular trails. The area is accessible year-round, but it is much easier to run and hike in the summer without all the snow and ice.

Another great remote region to hike in Iceland in June is the Westfjords. It's the oldest region of Iceland, and it features dramatically deep fjords and tumbling waterfalls. Across the misty mountain tops are some impressive trails for hikers of all levels. In some cases, you can still follow ancient cairns down the well-beaten paths.

For more experienced hikers, the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve offers a remote wilderness experience with rugged cliffs, Arctic foxes, and no roads. The reserve is accessible only during the summer season, and June is one of the best months to see fox cubs at their dens, according to our study of where to find Arctic foxes in Iceland.

Glacier Hiking and Snowmobiling in Iceland in June

To add some extra adventure and awe to your excursion, why not try hiking or snowmobiling across one of Iceland's glaciers? Despite the slightly warmer temperatures and prolonged daylight, Iceland's glaciers are still accessible in June. These huge natural wonders look fantastic in the June sunshine and offer a different perspective of Iceland's incredible landscapes.

Venturing onto glaciers can be challenging, but there's no need to worry. By choosing guided glacier tours, you can enjoy the experience safely. Guided tours provide all the necessary equipment and are led by skilled, experienced guides who ensure you have a safe and memorable adventure on the ice.

Kayaking in Iceland in June

With the warmer weather in Iceland in June, it's a great time to get out on the water in a kayak. Whether it's along the coast or on one of Iceland's lakes and fjords, kayaking tours are available for all sorts of durations and differing skill levels. Ranging from easy two-hour trips for beginners to a full-on six-day kayaking tour, there are plenty of options to suit any and all visitors to Iceland.

Seeing the Lupine Fields in Iceland in June

As June arrives in Iceland, the country becomes enveloped in blue and purple flowers called lupines.

Lupine was originally introduced to help prevent soil erosion, but it quickly spread across large parts of the countryside. In some areas, it's considered an invasive plant that threatens native vegetation, especially moss. Because of this, lupines are quite controversial in Iceland, although many people still find the colorful fields beautiful and don't mind how widely they've spread.

The lupines are out in full force at the start of summer, and they're one of the top things to see in Iceland in June.

If you drive around Iceland, you'll get a taste of its contrasts; even over a short distance, the landscapes change swiftly. Within a few miles, you'll see purple lupine fields, mossy green lava fields, and lush pastures dotted with yellow buttercups and dandelions.

Lava Caving in June in Iceland

June is a perfect month to discover Iceland's caves and lava tubes. It's one of the more unique things to do in Iceland in June.

Many lava caves are inaccessible in the winter due to ice, but as it thaws, these underground labyrinths are ready to be explored again. Get beneath the surface to experience first-hand the powerful volcanism that created and continues to shape Iceland.

It's never advisable to enter a cave in Iceland without an expert, and there are many guided lava cave tours near and far from Reykjavik. The flexibility of the summer months means you can mix and match to get the most out of your time. For example, you can go on this combo tour with Silfra snorkeling and Raufarholshellir caving.

Horse Riding in June in Iceland

June offers excellent weather for horseback riding and a chance to experience the beauty of the countryside from a different perspective. The Icelandic horse has been bred in isolation in Iceland for over 1,000 years. It has faithfully served as a transport and agricultural companion in the past, but is now primarily used for leisure and competitive riding.

The Icelandic horse is famous for its short, stocky build and its fifth gait, the so-called "tölt." They're also calm, friendly, and very intelligent. These qualities make the horses ideal for children and beginners, so going on horse riding tours to explore Iceland is also a fantastic family activity.

Thanks to the long daylight hours in Iceland in June, you have more flexibility when planning your ride, whether you prefer a short excursion or a longer adventure through the countryside.

Visiting Hot Springs and Swimming Pools in Iceland in June

After all that excitement, your body will need to relax and recover. June is a great time to visit hot springs in Iceland, as the weather will be warmer and the opening hours will be longer than in winter.

Icelanders love to be in the water, and there's no city or town in Iceland without swimming pools nearby. You can often find hot springs and geothermal pools in the most surprising and remote places.

Geothermal energy is intertwined with Iceland's history and culture; meeting up in the water is a common way for locals to catch up.

Although these spots are nearly always outside, they're frequented year-round. Iceland's warmer June weather is an excellent time of year for those who wish to discover Icelandic pool culture. There's nothing like experiencing the long shadows and colorful sunset glow from a hot spring in the middle of nowhere.

Natural hot springs are less likely to have changing rooms, let alone heated ones, so the June weather in Iceland opens up the possibility of enjoying a dip without baring it all in freezing temperatures. Beware that some hot springs may be on private property, and you must get the landowner's permission. Due to these restrictions, it is easier to book hot spring tours.

If you want to try a swimming pool in a nearby town, remember that most towns and villages will have one, and Reykjavik has many. No matter the location, there's always one rule to follow: You must wash thoroughly before putting on your swimsuit before entering the pool. It's one way that the pools are kept clean and only require light chlorination.

The swimming pools in Reykjavik are large and often have extra amenities such as saunas and steam rooms. Laugardalslaug, the largest in Reykjavik, even offers massages and spa treatments.

Sundhollin Swimming Pool in downtown Reykjavik also has the latest amenities and recently reopened after renovations. It is a favorite among locals and visitors for its central location and social atmosphere.

• See also: When and Where To (Not) Get Naked in Iceland

Experience the Wildlife of Iceland's Waters in June

The shores of Iceland's coasts are rich in krill and fish, attracting fishing enthusiasts, both animal and human, to its dramatic coastline. This makes marine life encounters one of the most exciting things to do in Iceland in June. Whale-watching and puffin-spotting tours are popular boat trips where both animals can be seen in one excursion.

In June, the calmer seas and brighter skies make these activities even more enjoyable. Seeing whales and puffins along the coast is a memorable part of the experience and often one of the first things that comes to mind when thinking about what to see in Iceland in June.

It's also the start of Iceland's peak season for marine life experiences, with plenty of options for spotting wildlife or trying your hand at fishing along the coast or on guided tours.

Puffin Tours in June in Iceland

The Atlantic puffin only nests on the Icelandic coastline between late April and early September, so June is a prime month to spot this adorable bird. Our count of Iceland's biggest puffin colonies ranks the Westman Islands first at 1,125,000 burrows, with Breidafjordur second at 425,000. It's regarded by many as the unofficial bird of Iceland (the gyrfalcon being the official national bird of Iceland), and you won't want to miss your chance to spot these colorfully beaked fellows.

The best way to see puffins in Iceland is by joining a boat tour that visits their nesting cliffs and island colonies, or by taking part in birdwatching tours that explore Iceland's rich coastal birdlife. These tours depart from places like Reykjavik, Akureyri, or the Westman Islands and often combine whale-watching with scenic coastal views and expert commentary.

The most popular puffin tours in Iceland include:

• Family-Friendly Puffin Boat Tour from Reykjavik: A short and affordable boat tour from Reykjavik that takes you to nearby puffin colonies.

• Ingólfshöfði Puffin Tour (South Coast): A unique South Coast experience combining a scenic tractor ride and guided hike to see puffins and other seabirds in a remote coastal setting.

• Whale & Puffin Watching RIB Boat Tour from Reykjavik: A fast-paced small-group boat tour from Reykjavik offering close encounters with puffins, whales, and other marine wildlife in Faxafloi Bay.

Whale Watching in Iceland in June

Whale watching is one of the most popular things to do in Iceland in June and can be a family-friendly activity. While whale watching tours run year-round from some ports, June offers long daylight hours and generally more comfortable conditions at sea.

Humpback and minke whales are common sightings, while harbor porpoises and white-beaked dolphins may also be spotted. Other species vary by region, with blue and fin whales most likely in Skjalfandi Bay from mid-June to mid-July. You may also see seabirds, including gulls, fulmars, guillemots, and puffins.

Once onboard, you'll head toward areas where whales have recently been seen or are known to feed. Your guide will help identify wildlife and share information about the animals and their marine environment.

Boat type, passenger numbers, and onboard facilities vary between tours, and minimum ages differ by operator. Our study of the best whale-watching companies in Iceland discusses these differences alongside traveler ratings.

Fishing in June in Iceland

Fishing in Iceland in June is a great experience, with lakes and rivers full of fish and long daylight hours giving you more time on the water. Iceland has a deep relationship with fishing, with much of Icelandic history revolving around it. Fishing in lakes and rivers is a popular leisure activity. However, you'll need a permit to fish in any river or lake in Iceland and permission from the landowner.

This can be tricky, and the permits are expensive. The easiest approach for experienced anglers and beginners is booking fishing tours. If you particularly want to go at it alone and plan your own trip, we recommend you read more about fishing in Iceland to ensure you follow all the rules.

Sea-angling is more straightforward, and you can even pair two experiences together, like with this combination whale-watching and sea fishing boat trip. In some cases, the tours will even help you clean your fish for cooking.

The cheapest route to catching fish in Iceland is harbor fishing. Some companies along the Reykjavik Harbor offer rod rental so you can cast your line, relax, and let your feet dangle over the pier.

Best Places To Visit in Iceland in June

If you're planning your trip and wondering what to see in Iceland in June, there are several regions that stand out for their accessibility, scenery, and variety of experiences during early summer. With long daylight hours and open roads, June is one of the best times to explore these iconic areas.

Golden Circle

The Golden Circle is one of the most popular routes when visiting Iceland in June, especially for those staying in Reykjavik. Key stops include Thingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, Strokkur Geyser, and Gullfoss Waterfall. You can also add Secret Lagoon and Kerid Crater for a more complete experience.

South Coast

The South Coast is a must-see region, known for its dramatic landscapes and iconic sights. Highlights include Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, Skogafoss Waterfall, Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, and Dyrholaey Peninsula. Further east, Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach are among the most unforgettable places to visit in Iceland in June.

Ring Road

For those with more time, the Ring Road offers the ultimate Iceland road trip. This route connects a wide range of landscapes, including Eastfjords, Lake Myvatn, and North Iceland. Along the way, you can visit Dettifoss Waterfall and Husavik.

Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Often called "Iceland in miniature," the Snaefellsnes Peninsula packs diverse landscapes into one region. Must-see spots include Kirkjufell Mountain, Kirkjufellsfoss Waterfall, Budir Black Church, Arnarstapi, and Snaefellsjokull Glacier.

Top Tours & Activities in Iceland in June

June is one of the peak months for touring Iceland, offering the perfect blend of long daylight hours, mild weather, and access to both summer landscapes and lingering winter wonders. The following is a list of the best tours and activities in Iceland in June.

Top Summer Self-Drive Tours in Iceland in June

Most visitors in summer choose Iceland self-drive tours, which include package discounts, accommodations, and detailed itineraries to guide your journey:

• 10-Day Circle of Iceland Self-Drive: Explore every corner of Iceland at your own pace, including glaciers, waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, and black sand beaches.

• 2-Week Complete Iceland Self-Drive Adventure: Experience Iceland's most stunning natural wonders on this epic two-week journey around the entire country.

• One-Week Circle of Iceland Self-Drive Tour: A streamlined itinerary covering all major attractions, from glaciers to geysers, in just one week.

• 7-Day Summer Self-Drive Adventure: The ideal one-week tour to explore Iceland's top highlights during the vibrant summer season.

• One Week South & West Iceland Self-Drive: Discover the best of Iceland's South Coast and magical West on this slow-paced yet scenic one-week itinerary.

• 9-Day Ring Road & Snaefellsnes Self-Drive Tour: Travel the iconic Ring Road and explore the diverse landscapes of Snaefellsnes Peninsula in nine unforgettable days.

Best Road Trip Activities in Iceland in June

Most self-drive travelers in summer enhance their Ring Road adventure with these meet-on-location activities, perfect for those who are driving:

• Jokulsarlon Boat Tour: Sail among towering icebergs at the stunning Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon in Southeast Iceland.

• Glacier Hiking at Skaftafell: Explore Vatnajokull's icy terrain with a guided hike in Southeast Iceland.

• Katla Ice Cave Tour: Discover a stunning ice cave beneath the Katla Volcano on the South Coast.

• Whale Watching in Husavik: Spot humpback whales, minke whales, and more on a boat tour in North Iceland.

• Snorkeling in Silfra: Swim between tectonic plates in crystal-clear waters in Thingvellir National Park.

• Snowmobiling on Langjokull: Ride across Iceland's second-largest glacier near Gullfoss Waterfall.

• The Blue Lagoon Comfort: Relax in the world-famous geothermal spa, surrounded by mineral-rich, milky-blue waters.

Top Excursions from Reykjavik in June

There are plenty of things to do in Reykjavik in June for travelers staying in the capital. The most popular activity is to join guided day tours from Reykjavik, which are perfect for travelers who prefer not to drive themselves but still want to enjoy Iceland's top attractions.

• The Golden Circle Tour from Reykjavik: Visit Thingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall.

• The South Coast Tour from Reykjavik: Explore Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls, Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, and glacier viewpoints.

• Go Inside the Volcano from Reykjavik: Descend into the dormant Thrihnukagigur Volcano for a unique underground adventure.

• The Whale Watching Tour from Reykjavik: Spot whales, dolphins, and puffins on a thrilling marine safari.

• The Snaefellsnes Peninsula from Reykjavik: Discover black sand beaches, lava fields, volcanic craters, Snaefellsjokull Glacier, and the iconic Kirkjufell Mountain.

Can You See the Northern Lights in Iceland in June?

Unfortunately, you cannot see the northern lights in Iceland in June. This is because it is simply too bright for the northern lights to be visible.

However, the solar flares that cause aurora borealis take place year-round at all hours of the day. But to see them from the surface of the Earth, conditions need to be perfect, and if the sky never gets dark (like during the Icelandic summers), you will not be able to see them.

On the other hand, you can see the sun all night every night in June as an awesome consolation prize.

Festivals and Events in June in Iceland

While summer is an incredible time to experience Iceland's weather and natural beauty, the cultural scene is just as vibrant. Festivals in Iceland in June are a major highlight, with national celebrations, music events, and local traditions taking place across the country.

Although Iceland is a small nation with just under 400,000 residents, its sense of national pride is strong. There are many public holidays, music festivals, and cultural events throughout the year, but June in Iceland stands out as one of the best times to experience this lively atmosphere.

Reykjavik Arts Festival (Even-Numbered Years)

Established in 1970, the Reykjavik Arts Festival is Iceland's oldest and most prestigious cultural festival, running for two weeks across the end of May and the first half of June. The festival is held every two years, and the next edition takes place in 2028.

Its program spans orchestral music, contemporary performance, theater, and experimental sound, and you can get tickets to the Reykjavik Arts Festival at tix.is.

Sjomannadagurinn (Fisherman's Day) (First Sunday of June)

Fisherman's Day is a public holiday on the first Sunday of June. Iceland's history, culture, and survival have long been intertwined with fishing and fishermen. This Festival of the Sea is a weekend-long celebration.

It was established in 1938 to celebrate all those brave Icelanders who risked their lives at sea, past and present, and as a remembrance of those who have tragically died.

The weekend is enthusiastically celebrated in the Capital area and towns around Iceland. If you find yourself in a town by the sea, make sure you get down to the harbor to see the local festivities. Activities, especially for kids, make Fisherman's Day a fantastic family outing.

If you're in Reykjavik for this holiday, you can visit the old fish-packing district, now the hip and cool Grandi, about 1.5 miles (2.4 kilometers) from the downtown area.

There are free cultural events at many of Reykjavik's museums, especially the Reykjavik Maritime Museum. Some restaurants will also offer special seafood soup, and outdoor vendors will tempt you with seafood treats. You can even watch the fisherman put the fish (and alien-like creatures of the deep) on ice.

Iceland's Independence Day (June 17)

On June 17, Iceland's Independence Day is celebrated throughout the country. Iceland gained its independence in 1944 from the Kingdom of Denmark after being ruled by foreign kings since 1262.

June 17 also marks the birthday of Iceland's fiercest fighter for independence, Jón Sigurðsson, whose statue you can see in Austurvollur Square in front of the Althingi Parliament Building. As expected from a national celebration, flags fly at full mast, and most people have the day off.

A parade through the downtown area in Reykjavik features people in traditional Icelandic costumes, people on horseback, and flag-wielding scouts. Spectators head to the central area to watch the show and hear a speech from the annually appointed Fjallkonan, or the "woman of the mountain," a personification of Iceland's strong character and spirit.

People celebrate in central Reykjavik no matter the weather. In fact, Icelanders tend to sarcastically joke that it's not a proper June 17 if it doesn't rain. Similar celebrations happen all over the country, varying in scale, so be sure to join in wherever you are.

Irish Days, Akranes

Photo from Írskir dagar á Akranesi

Irish Days is one of Iceland's most unique community festivals, held annually in the town of Akranes, about 45 minutes north of Reykjavik. The festival celebrates a remarkable piece of local history: according to the ancient Landnamabok, two Irish brothers were among the very first settlers of Akranes, arriving around 880 AD. This Celtic heritage has become a source of great local pride, and Irish Days is the town's annual way of honoring it.

Over the course of the festival, Akranes fills with Irish flags, live music, sports events, an outdoor market, and neighborhood barbecue parties. The undisputed crowd favorite is the "most red-headed Icelander" competition, a lighthearted nod to the town's Irish ancestry that never fails to draw a laugh.

Við Djúpið Music Festival, Isafjordur

Established in 2003, Við Djúpið is one of Iceland's most respected chamber music festivals, dedicated to classical and contemporary music performed in the remote and beautiful setting of Isafjordur in the Westfjords.

The festival brings together accomplished Icelandic and international musicians for a program of concerts and masterclasses timed to coincide with the summer solstice, when the light in the Westfjords takes on a quality that is almost impossible to describe.

The combination of world-class music and one of Iceland's most unspoiled landscapes makes this a genuinely special experience for classical music lovers. Getting to Isafjordur requires a short domestic flight or a scenic drive, making the festival a natural centerpiece for a longer trip to the Westfjords.

You can buy tickets for Við Djúpið Music Festival on stubb.is.

Arctic Open Golf Tournament, Akureyri

The Arctic Open is one of the most unusual sporting events on the Icelandic summer calendar: a professional golf tournament played entirely under the midnight sun on the fairways of Akureyri Golf Club in North Iceland.

Founded in 1986, the tournament draws competitors and spectators from across Europe and North America, with rounds played through the night in broad daylight, a surreal experience only possible in a handful of places on earth. Akureyri is Iceland's second-largest city and a great destination in its own right, with easy access to Lake Myvatn, Godafoss Waterfall, and the natural wonders of North Iceland.

Jónsmessunótt — Midsummer's Night (June 23)

Jónsmessunótt, or Midsummer's Night, is one of Iceland's most enchanting folkloric celebrations, observed on the night of June 23 in connection with the feast day of John the Baptist.

Rooted in centuries of Icelandic tradition, the night is steeped in legend: cows are said to gain the power of speech, seals shed their skins and walk among humans, and rolling in the morning dew of June 24 is believed to bring a full year of good health.

Communities across Iceland gather for bonfires, folk music, and communal feasting as the sun barely dips below the horizon before rising again. For visitors, it is one of the most atmospheric and memorable nights of the Icelandic calendar.

Lobster Festival in Hofn

The Lobster Festival in Hofn is one of Iceland's most beloved annual food events, held in the small and picturesque fishing town of Hofn in southeast Iceland. Running for over 30 years, it celebrates the town's most famous export: the Icelandic langoustine, locally known as humar and considered among the finest in the world.

Over the festival weekend, local restaurants set up outdoor stands along the harbor, serving buttery grilled langoustine alongside live music and a genuinely festive community atmosphere. Hofn sits at the edge of the Vatnajokull glacier, making it easy to pair the festival with some of the most dramatic scenery in Iceland.

Concerts and Live Events in Iceland in June

With the midnight sun in full swing, Iceland comes alive in June with concerts and live events spanning classical music, jazz, indie pop, and homegrown Icelandic talent. Venues range from intimate churches and concert halls like Harpa to large outdoor stages, with something on almost every weekend of the month.

Lineups change every year, so check tix.is for current concert listings before your trip. Many of these events sell out fast, so booking your tickets in advance is strongly recommended.

Events in Reykjavik in June

The Reykjavik weather in June brings people out and about on the streets. You'll see more crowded streets and even groups having picnics in Austurvollur Square. Some of the public holidays are more spectacular in the capital.

If you're wondering what to do in Reykjavik in June, you can't go wrong with the Icelandic national holidays and some of the year's biggest festivals. New events are always popping up in the summer, but here are a few of our favorites:

The Mt. Esja Ultra

This intense and beautiful endurance race doesn't happen on the same day every year, but it often falls in the middle of June. While not technically in Reykjavik, at 2998 feet (914 meters), Mt. Esja towers over the city's skyline.

The Mt. Esja Ultra's main race is 26.7 miles (43 kilometers), gaining 11,811 feet (3,600 meters) throughout the race. The event also features a half-marathon.

Midnight Sun Run

Every June, local and visiting runners flock to Reykjavík to run through the Laugardalur Valley in the middle of the night under the bright midnight sun.

Held around the summer solstice, the event takes advantage of about 21 hours of daylight, creating a unique race atmosphere where it feels like daytime even at midnight.

The Suzuki Midnight Sun Run offers three distances: a half-marathon (21.1 km), 10K, and 5K. All routes start in the evening and finish in Laugardalur.

The race draws thousands of participants each year, from casual runners to seasoned athletes. Many celebrate afterward with a relaxing soak in the nearby geothermal pool, Laugardalslaug.

Viking Festival in Hafnarfjordur

Hafnarfjordur is a charming harbor town 6 miles (10 kilometers) from Reykjavik and home to Iceland's longest-running Viking Festival. For years, it took place at the Viking Village, but today, it's in Vidistadatun Park. Entry is free for everyone.

The Viking Festival usually occurs over a week in mid-June. It features a market that sells leather goods, fur, jewelry, swords, and other handcrafted items. There are also Viking reenactment battles, which are great to watch!

Have we answered your questions about visiting Iceland in June? Will you try any of the special experiences going on during this month in Iceland?

Have you visited Iceland before? Please share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!