Weather and daylight

Snow is possible and becomes more likely as the month progresses, though heavy snow is less common in Reykjavík and the southern lowlands. The change in light is rapid: about 11 to 12 hours of daylight early in October, and about 8 by the end, with sunrise after 09:00 and sunset shortly after 17:00. Plan sightseeing around the middle of the day and keep a spare half day in a short trip, because weather, flooding or avalanches can occasionally close roads.

Northern lights

Iceland's northern lights season generally runs from September to April, so October is within it, but viewing needs clear skies and favourable solar activity. Visit Iceland names Öskjuhlíð and Grótta near Reykjavík, and darker spots outside the city such as Þingvellir National Park, Kleifarvatn and Hvalfjörður. Lakes at lower elevations may still be ice-free, allowing reflections of the lights. If you prefer not to drive in the dark, see northern lights tours.

Roads

The Ring Road and main routes remain open and are regularly maintained. Snow and ice become more likely later in the month, especially in North Iceland and on mountain passes. Most Highland F-roads are closed by October; Þórsmörk is accessible on guided Super Jeep tours year-round, while access to Landmannalaugar is more limited. Check road.is, the Icelandic Met Office and SafeTravel daily, and read Iceland F-roads before choosing a rental.

What is open in October

  • Glaciers: glacier hiking and snowmobiling; see glacier hikes.
  • Ice caves: natural ice cave tours usually begin around this time, for example the Crystal Blue Ice Cave in Vatnajökull; see ice cave tours.
  • Silfra: snorkelling and diving continue; see Silfra snorkeling.
  • Whales: humpbacks, minke whales, white-beaked dolphins and harbour porpoises may be seen; see whale watching.
  • Jökulsárlón: boat tours run, with some finishing at the end of the month; see Jökulsárlón.
  • Volcano: the Inside the Volcano tour at Þríhnjúkagígur has its last chance of the year in October.
  • Pools: Reykjavík has 18 public swimming pools, many with outdoor hot tubs.
  • Horse riding and waterfalls: paths may be wet, muddy or icy.

Events

The Imagine Peace Tower on Viðey Island lights up nightly from 9 October, 20:00 until midnight. Visit Iceland also lists the Reykjavík International Film Festival, Veturnætur (Winter Nights) in Ísafjörður, Days of Darkness in East Iceland, Oktoberfest Mývatn Öl at the end of the month, and Hallóvín, the Icelandic Halloween. Dates change each year, so verify before travelling.

A tour to book

October is the last month for several lagoon boat tours, so we recommend the Reykjavik to Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon and Diamond Beach tour: 4.7 out of 5 from 4,020 reviews, from €179 on 6 November 2026. It reaches the lagoon from the capital in one day; see Reykjavik to Jokulsarlon day trip.

Where to stay

Reykjavík is the practical base: see where to stay in Reykjavík.

Mistakes to avoid

  • Planning the interior: most F-roads are closed.
  • Leaving the Jökulsárlón boat for the last week: some tours finish at the end of October.
  • Assuming a September sunset: it falls from about 19:00 to shortly after 17:00.
  • Missing the Inside the Volcano tour: October is the last chance of the year.

FAQ

What is the weather in Iceland in October?

Reykjavík averages about 2 to 7°C (36 to 45°F); North Iceland is colder.

Can you see the northern lights in October?

Yes, October is within the September to April season, with clear skies and solar activity required.

Are the F-roads open in October?

Most are closed; Þórsmörk is reachable on guided Super Jeep tours.

How much daylight is there?

About 11 to 12 hours early in the month and about 8 by the end.

When does the Imagine Peace Tower light up?

Nightly from 9 October, 20:00 until midnight.

The Iceland Authority editorial team, 7 November 2026.