Weather and daylight

September brings passing showers all month and often noticeable wind, especially on the coast, with conditions varying by region. Snow is possible in the Highlands and at higher elevations, while coastal areas usually get rain. Daylight shrinks steadily: about 14 hours in early September, 12 to 13 in mid-September and 11 to 12 in late September, so plan sightseeing in one region per day rather than a long loop. Visit Iceland adds that September is generally quieter than the peak summer months, and prices may be lower.

Northern lights return

Sightings come back as nights lengthen, and the September equinox offers ideal viewing conditions, though the lights are never guaranteed. The best viewing is away from city lights with clear skies; near Reykjavík, popular spots include Öskjuhlíð and Grótta, and farther out Þingvellir. Details on the options are in northern lights tours in Iceland.

Roads and the highlands

The Ring Road and main roads are usually in good condition, and a two-wheel-drive car is usually enough outside the highlands. F-roads require a 4x4, and early September is often the last chance before they close for the season; Safe Travel Iceland says they are usually closed from mid-September until June or July. Check road.is and umferdin.is before you head for the interior, and drive carefully on gravel roads. Read the rules in Iceland F-roads and how to get around Iceland.

What is on in September

  • Réttir: the sheep round-ups, when farmers bring sheep and horses down from the mountains, held across the country, with many in North Iceland.
  • Festivals: Ljósanótt (Nights of Lights) in Reykjanesbær, the Reykjavík International Film Festival (RIFF), the Vaka Folk Arts Festival in Reykjavík, and Októberfest starting in late September.
  • Berry season: blueberries and crowberries, with picking runs from mid-August to mid-September; avoid picking in protected areas.
  • Autumn colour: foliage turns red, orange, purple and mossy green, which suits hiking.
  • Whale watching: still running from Reykjavík, Húsavík, Akureyri and Dalvík; see whale watching.
  • Glaciers: guided glacier hiking and kayaking tours are still running; see glacier hikes.

A tour to book

Whale tours are still running in September from the northern ports, so we recommend the Akureyri 3-hour classic whale watching tour by ship: 4.6 out of 5 from 3,844 reviews, from €92 on 6 November 2026. Akureyri is also the base in Akureyri, North Iceland.

Camping and lodging

Campsites stay open until the end of September (Visit Iceland), after which most close until May. The Reykjavík base is covered in where to stay in Reykjavík.

Mistakes to avoid

  • Planning the highlands for late September: F-roads are usually closed from mid-September.
  • Packing for August weather: night temperatures are 5 to 8°C.
  • Booking one night for the lights: clouds and solar activity decide.
  • Camping after September: most campsites close.

FAQ

What is the weather in Iceland in September?

Daytime highs of 48 to 54°F (9 to 12°C), nights of 41 to 46°F (5 to 8°C), with passing showers.

Can you see the northern lights in September?

Sightings return as nights lengthen, and the equinox offers ideal conditions.

Are the highland roads open in September?

Early September is often the last chance; F-roads then close for the season.

Is September cheaper than summer?

Visit Iceland says prices may be lower, because it is a shoulder season.

What are Réttir?

The sheep round-ups held across the country in September, when farmers bring sheep down from the mountains.

The Iceland Authority editorial team, 7 November 2026.