Iceland in June | Everything You Need To Know

Camping in June in Iceland

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

But 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 is illegal. Tjalda and Camping Card are fantastic websites for locating the closest campsite and its available facilities.

The weather is unpredictable, so bring lots of layers when you 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 in Iceland is excellent for hiking, 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 more conducive to 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 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: Hiking in Iceland: A Complete Guide to the Best Hikes and Trails
• See also: The Ultimate Guide to the Westfjords of 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 is a dangerous endeavor, though. Be sure to choose guided glacier hiking tours and snowmobile tours rather than going it alone and putting yourself at extreme risk. When you book a guided tour, you’ll be provided with all the necessary equipment and be accompanied by a skilled, experienced guide who can keep you safe.

Kayaking in Iceland in June

With the warmer weather in Iceland comes the opportunity 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 full-on six-day epic quests, there are plenty of options to suit any and all visitors to Iceland.

See the Lupine Fields in Iceland in June

With the Icelandic weather in June becoming warm, the country is enveloped in blue and purple flowers called lupines.

Lupine was initially introduced to help with soil erosion, but quickly spread to cover large parts of the countryside. In some places, it is considered an invasive species threatening indigenous plants, like native moss species. Lupines are, therefore, quite controversial in Iceland, but many consider the quilt of flowers stunning and don't mind their spread across the Icelandic countryside.

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.

• See also: The Dynamic Plant Lupine

Lava Caving in June in Iceland

June is a perfect month to discover Iceland’s lava caves and tubes. 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.

Furthermore, the longer hours of sunlight give you more flexibility on the time of day and duration of your horse riding trip.

• See also: The Icelandic Horse | A Comprehensive Guide

Visit 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 a pool 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.

The almost endless sunlight hours of June give you all day and night to enjoy these natural wonders. There’s nothing like experiencing the long shadows and colorful sunset glow from a hot spring in the middle of nowhere.

If you opt for 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 without your swimsuit before entering the pool. It's one way that the pools are kept clean and only require light chlorination.

In Reykjavik, the swimming pools 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.

• Discover the Best Swimming Pools in Iceland
• See also: When and Where To (Not) Get Naked in Iceland

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 June.

Top Summer Self-Drive Tours

Most visitors in summer choose 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 Summer

Most self-drive travelers in summer will 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 Summer

For those staying in Reykjavik, these guided day tours from Reykjavik are perfect for travelers who prefer not to drive themselves while still enjoying Iceland's top attractions in the summer.

• 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.

Experience Iceland’s Aquatic Wildlife 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. 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. 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 May and August, so June is a prime month to spot this adorable bird. 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 is by joining a boat tour that visits their nesting cliffs and island colonies. These tours depart from places like Reykjavik, Akureyri, or the Westman Islands and often combine whale-watching with scenic coastal views and expert commentary.

• For more: Where To See Puffins in Iceland

Whale Watching in Iceland in June

Both whale and puffin spotting make for excellent family adventures. Even though whale watching tours are available all year round, setting sail in the summer months makes for a much more pleasant experience at sea, with lower winds and kinder temperatures.

Whales are not the only mammals you can hope to see. Although humpbacks and minke whales are common, you may spot harbor porpoises and short-beaked dolphins. Less common species are fin whales and orcas (killer whales). You can also look forward to spotting Iceland's birdlife: gulls, fulmars, gannets, and guillemots. And, of course, puffins!

Once onboard, you'll be taken to the prime spotting locations. Your expert guide will tell you and show you any wildlife in the area and provide informative and fun facts about all curious creatures.

• Read more: The Best Guide to Whale Watching in Iceland

 Fishing in June in Iceland

June is a great time for fishing in Iceland, with lakes and rivers full of fish. 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. 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 a guided fishing tour. 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 on the Reykjavik Harbor offer rod rental so you can cast your line, relax, and let your feet dangle over the pier.

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.

• Discover the Northern Lights in Iceland - When & Where To See the Aurora

Festivals and Events in June in Iceland

While summer is an incredible time to experience Iceland’s weather and natural beauty, the culture is also more vibrant in the warm months.

Although Iceland is a tiny country with just under 400,000 residents, the national pride is big. There are many wonderful national holidays and music and arts festivals throughout the year, especially in summer.

 Sjomannadagurinn (Fisherman's Day)

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 national 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.

• Learn more about Iceland's Independence Day

Lobster Festival in Hofn

Hofn is a lovely place to visit in Iceland in June, especially if you’re a seafood lover. The town is famous for its lobster and langoustine, and each year it hosts a lively lobster festival at the end of the month to celebrate its birthday.

This weekend event features live music, local food stands, community gatherings, and, of course, plenty of fresh lobster served in a variety of delicious ways. It's a great opportunity to experience Icelandic culture, taste regional specialties, and enjoy long summer evenings in one of southeast Iceland’s most charming destinations.

• See also: Top 25 Festivals in Iceland

Things To Do 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:

• See more: Top 10 Things To Do in Reykjavik

The Mt. Esja Ultra

Mount Esja rises over Downtown Reykjavik.

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 914 meters, Mt. Esja towers over the city’s skyline.

The Mt. Esja Ultra’s main race is 43 kilometers, gaining 3,600 meters throughout the race. The event also features a half-marathon.

Midnight Sun Run

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

The Suzuki Midnight Sun Run offers three races: a half marathon, 10k, and 5k.

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 and ends on June 17th. 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!

The Year-Round Nightlife Scene

Reykjavik’s nightlife has long been vibrant, but in recent years, it’s drawn more international attention. The city is filled with bars and cafes, but the best DJs, live music, and dancing go all night and sometimes don’t even start until the early hours of the morning.

With the June midnight sun, it’s not hard to see how someone could lose track of time.

•  See also: The Ultimate Guide to Downtown Reykjavik

FAQs About Visiting Iceland in June

Here are the most frequently asked questions about Iceland in June to help prepare for your visit.

What is the weather like in Iceland in June?

June is one of the best months to visit Iceland, offering mild temperatures that typically range between 5 C and 15 C (41 F to 59 F). While it is relatively dry compared to other months, the weather remains unpredictable, with occasional rain and strong winds. Packing for all conditions is essential.

Do I need to pack warm clothes for Iceland in June?

Even though June is considered summer in Iceland, it can still be quite chilly, especially near glaciers and along the coast. Packing layers is key. A waterproof jacket is a must, along with a warm sweater made of wool or fleece. Thermal base layers are useful for exploring colder areas, and a hat and gloves can come in handy if you plan to visit higher elevations or go on glacier tours.

Is June a good time to visit Iceland?

June is one of the best months to visit Iceland for several reasons. The weather is milder, the roads are mostly accessible, and there are endless daylight hours for sightseeing. Many remote areas that are closed in winter, such as the Highlands, become reachable, opening up new hiking and adventure opportunities. Wildlife is also abundant, making June an excellent time for birdwatching and whale spotting.

Are the roads in Iceland open in June?

Most roads in Iceland, including the Ring Road and the Golden Circle, are fully accessible in June. This makes self-driving one of the best ways to explore the country. Additionally, the F-roads, which lead into the Highlands, begin to open during this time, though some may still be closed in early June depending on weather conditions. If you plan to drive into the Highlands, a 4x4 vehicle is required.

What wildlife can I see in Iceland in June?

June is an excellent month for wildlife spotting in Iceland. Puffins are at their peak, with large colonies nesting along coastal cliffs, particularly in places like the Westman Islands, Latrabjarg Cliffs, and Dyrholaey Peninsula.

Whale watching is also fantastic during this time, with frequent sightings of humpback whales, minke whales, orcas, and even blue whales. Arctic foxes can sometimes be spotted in remote areas, and seals are often seen lounging on the beaches. Reindeers are most commonly found in the Eastfjords.

How crowded is Iceland in June?

June marks the beginning of the peak tourist season in Iceland, which means that popular attractions such as the Blue Lagoon, Golden Circle, and waterfalls like Skogafoss can be quite busy. However, because the days are long, it’s easy to visit these locations early in the morning or late at night to avoid crowds. For a more secluded experience, venturing off the beaten path to lesser-known sights or traveling further into the Highlands can offer a quieter adventure.

Is it expensive to visit Iceland in June?

June is one of the most expensive months to visit Iceland due to the high demand for flights, accommodations, and car rentals. Prices for hotels and tours tend to rise, so booking in advance is highly recommended. To save money, many travelers opt for camping, as campsites are widely available and open in June. Shopping at grocery stores instead of dining out can also help cut costs, as eating at restaurants in Iceland can be pricey.

Make the Most of Iceland in June

Iceland in June brings long days, mild weather, and some of the year's most exciting experiences. You can explore stunning landscapes, join seasonal tours, and enjoy outdoor activities made better by extended daylight. This is a great time to take in the energy and natural beauty that define early summer in Iceland.

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!