August in Iceland feels like the calm after the summer rush — long golden evenings, soft light over green valleys, and locals soaking up every warm moment before autumn arrives. It’s the last full month of open highlands, colorful wildflowers, and lively festivals that fill the country with music and laughter.
If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing Iceland with a slower, more relaxed rhythm — August is your month. The weather is kind, the roads are clear, and the crowds have just started to thin. With a rental car from Firefly Iceland, you can take the scenic way around — stopping whenever the light or landscape calls you to pull over.
🌤️ Weather in Iceland in August
August is the soft landing of Icelandic summer. Temperatures stay mild, the air feels fresh and the first touches of autumn color begin to appear in the north.
| Region | Avg High | Avg Low | Rainfall | Daylight Hours |
| Reykjavík | 12–14 °C / 54–57 °F | 7 °C / 45 °F | ~50 mm | ~16 hours |
| Akureyri | 13–15 °C / 55–59 °F | 6 °C / 43 °F | ~40 mm | ~17 hours |
| Egilsstaðir | 13–15 °C / 55–59 °F | 6 °C / 43 °F | ~40 mm | ~17 hours |
You´ll notice shorter nights returning, which means actual sunset again, painting the sky orange and pink. Rain can appear quickly but usually passes just as fast.
💡August is the last month of full daylight freedom, warm enough for camping, yet cool enough to feel Iceland´s signature freshness.
🛣️ Road Conditions & Self-Drive Travel
By August, every major road and most highland routes are open. You can comfortably drive the Ring Road, reach remote fjords, or take a 4×4 into the interior.
- Main roads: Dry, clear, and safe for 2WD cars.
- F-roads: Still open but start closing in early September — enjoy them while you can.
- Westfjords & Eastfjords: Quiet, scenic, and perfect for travelers seeking fewer crowds.
- Weather changes: Expect fog in early mornings and cooler air in the evenings.
If you’ve ever wanted to see Iceland at its easiest driving moment — August is it.
🚗 Choosing Your Car
Pick your car based on how adventurous you feel:
- 2WD cars (VW Polo, VW Golf): Great for the Ring Road, South Coast, and city trips.
- 4×4 SUVs (Dacia Duster, Suzuki Vitara, VW Tiguan): Perfect for mountain roads, gravel tracks, and the Highlands.
- Family vans (Ford Transit): Comfortable for groups or longer road trips.
Firefly car includes unlimited mileage, 24/7 roadside assistance, and seasonal tires
🏞️ Things to Do in Iceland in August
August invites slower travel — the kind where you take the long route, stop at roadside pools, and hike until the light fades.
- Complete the Ring Road: Fewer cars, open landscapes, and great conditions for long drives.
- Head into the Highlands: Trails in Landmannalaugar, Askja, and Þórsmörk are still accessible before the first snows.
- Spot puffins before migration: The last puffins remain on cliffs until mid-August.
- Watch whales feed in northern fjords: Akureyri and Húsavík offer great late-season sightings.
- Enjoy warm nights at hot springs: Relax in Reykjadalur, Hrunalaug, or local swimming pools with evening light.
- See the magical Solar escape on the 12th of August in Iceland. Here you can read more about it.
🎉 Reykjavík in August: Culture, Community & Celebration
August in Reykjavík is anything but quiet — it’s when the city truly comes alive.
🏃♂️ Reykjavík Marathon (Reykjavíkur Marathonið)
Every August, thousands of runners fill the city streets for one of Iceland’s biggest sporting events. The marathon, half-marathon, and shorter fun runs attract locals and visitors alike, turning Reykjavík into a giant outdoor festival. Even if you don’t run, the energy is contagious — cafés overflow with cheering crowds and live music fills the air.
🎭 Menningarnótt – Reykjavík Culture Night
Held on the same day as the marathon, this is Reykjavík’s biggest event of the year. From morning concerts and art shows to evening fireworks over the harbor, Menningarnótt celebrates creativity in every form. Streets close to traffic and open to artists, food trucks, and thousands of happy people.
💡 Tip: If you plan to drive that weekend, park outside the city center — roads close early and stay blocked until late night.
🧳 What to Pack for Iceland in August
August is mild, but Icelandic weather can still switch between sunshine, drizzle, and chilly evenings. You’ll need practical layers that keep you comfortable for driving, hiking, and sightseeing.
👕 Regular Iceland Packing List
- Waterproof jacket and rain pants
- Warm fleece or wool sweater
- Lightweight down or insulated jacket
- T-shirts and long-sleeve layers
- Comfortable jeans or hiking trousers
- Hat and gloves (for highlands or cool nights)
- Hiking boots or waterproof shoes – Shoe gude
- Sneakers for city walks
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- Swimsuit and quick-dry towel
- Power bank and car charger
- Reusable water bottle and day backpack
💡 Firefly tip: Keep a small day bag in your car with extra layers and snacks — Icelandic weather can change quickly even in August.
🎶 Þjóðhátíð in Vestmannaeyjar Packing List
If you’re heading to the Westman Islands for Þjóðhátíð, expect camping, late nights, and all kinds of weather — from sunshine to sea mist. Pack for comfort and warmth, not style.
- Waterproof jacket and rain poncho (a must for outdoor concerts)
- Warm hoodie or thick sweater for evenings
- Beanie, gloves, and scarf
- Extra socks (it gets muddy fast)
- Sturdy waterproof boots or hiking shoes
- Portable phone charger or power bank
- Reusable drink bottle
- Tent, sleeping bag, and camping mat (if camping)
- Earplugs and sleep mask (nights can be noisy and bright)
- Cash or card for food stalls and ferry snacks
- Ferry tickets and ID (check before you go!)
💡 Pro tip: Bring a small Icelandic flag or LED light for your tent — locals decorate theirs, and it helps you find your spot in the dark!
🏃 Reykjavík Marathon Packing List
Running the Reykjavíkur Marathon? You’ll need both running gear and post-race comfort essentials. The weather can be cool and breezy, even in August.
- Running shoes you’ve already trained in
- Lightweight running jacket (windproof and water-resistant)
- Moisture-wicking base layers and shorts/tights
- Sports hat or headband
- Sunglasses and SPF
- Energy gels or snacks
- Reusable water bottle
- Safety pins or bib belt for race number
- Dry towel and change of clothes
- Warm jacket or hoodie for after the race
- Massage ball or muscle roller for recovery
- Flip-flops or slides for post-race comfort
💡 Firefly tip: If you’re staying outside the city center, drive in early — roads close around the race route, and parking fills up fast.
🎭 Menningarnótt (Reykjavík Culture Night) Packing List
Reykjavík’s Menningarnótt is an all-day city celebration filled with art, food, and fireworks — you’ll be walking for hours, often in unpredictable weather.
- Light jacket or raincoat
- Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers
- Compact umbrella (optional but useful)
- Small backpack or crossbody bag
- Reusable water bottle
- Sunglasses and sunscreen for daytime
- Warm sweater or layer for evening concerts
- Camera or smartphone for photos
- Portable charger
- Snacks — many food stalls get busy later
- Blanket for sitting at the harbor fireworks show
💡 Pro tip: Streets close early in downtown Reykjavík — park outside the center or take a taxi/bus to avoid long delays when leaving after the fireworks.
👉Want more packing tips? Take a look at our What to Wear in Iceland guide
🗺️ Hidden Corners to Explore in August
When the cities buzz, Iceland’s quieter corners still wait for you:
- Eastfjords fishing villages: Seyðisfjörður and Borgarfjörður Eystri glow with evening light and local charm.
- Þjórsárdalur Valley: A mix of waterfalls, forest trails, and the reconstructed Viking farm used in Game of Thrones.
- Hornstrandir Nature Reserve (Westfjords): Accessible only by boat — August is your last chance before it closes for the year.
- Húsafell & Canyon Baths: Warm pools and birch woods — ideal for an afternoon break on your drive.
💸 Saving Money in August
Travel costs peak in August, but smart planning keeps your trip affordable.
- Book early: Flights, cars, and rooms sell out fast.
- Skip rush hour: Driving early or late avoids traffic and parking fees.
- Refuel in major towns: Reykjavík, Akureyri, and Egilsstaðir have the lowest prices.
- Pack snacks: Gas stations charge more — shop at Bónus or Krónan before long drives.
👉 Check out more budget tips for your Iceland Road Trip
💬 FAQs About Iceland in August
- Can I see the Northern Lights in August?
Possibly in the last week of August, when the nights start to get darker.
- Is it still summer in Iceland?
Yes, August is the tail end of summer, with mild days and colorful evenings.
- Do I need a 4×4?
Only if you plan to explore the Highlands or drive F-roads, for the Ring Road a 2WD is enough.
- Are puffins still around?
Most leave my mid-August but you can still see them early in the month.
- Is August crowded?
Less than July but Reykjavík´s Culture Night weekend can be very busy, book early if visiting then.
- Is Þjóðhátíð worth visiting?
Definitely, it´s one of Iceland´s most iconic festivals. A full weekend of live music, bonfires, fireworks and community spirit in the Westman Islands. Locals camp in the Herjólfsdalur valley and the atmosphere is unlike anywhere else in the country. Just plan early and book ferry tickets and accommodation well in advance.
- How crowded is Reykjavík during Culture Night?
Very. Menningarnótt and the Reykjavík marathon attract tens of thousands of people downtown on the same day. Many streets close early so parking can be difficult. If you´re visiting, arrive before noon or park outside the city center and walk in.
- What should I wear in Iceland in August?
Layers are key. A waterproof jacket, fleece and sturdy shoes will keep you comfortable through changing weather. Days are mild, but evenings near the coast or in the Highlands can feel chilly. Don´t forget a hat, gloves and a swimsuit for hot springs.
- Can I camp anywhere in Iceland?
Not everywhere. Wild camping is restricted in most areas, especially near farms, national parks and private land. Use designated campsites, they´re well-equipped, affordable and open across the country in August.
- Is August a good time for a road trip?
Yes, it´s one of the best months for self-driving in Iceland. Roads are dry, F-roads are still open and the long daylight hours let you explore more each day. Just remember to book your car and accommodation early, since August is still high season.
🌅 The Magic of Late August Nights
As August moves toward its end, Iceland’s light begins to change. The endless glow of summer softens into golden evenings, and for the first time in months, shadows return to the land. The sun lingers low on the horizon, painting the sky in shades of amber, rose, and violet — a slow, cinematic farewell to summer.
This is when locals start to notice autumn’s quiet approach. The air feels crisper, grass turns a deeper green, and the smell of sea and moss becomes sharper after sunset. It’s a beautiful in-between — long enough days for adventures, but evenings that invite you to slow down, breathe, and simply watch the light fade.
Photographers love late August for its warmth and color, but even without a camera, it’s impossible not to pause. Whether you’re standing on a black sand beach, near a waterfall, or in the stillness of the countryside, the light feels personal — calm, steady, and unforgettable.
🌟 Why August is Worth It
August feels like Iceland taking a deep breath — warm light, long drives, and locals enjoying every last piece of summer. From Reykjavík’s fireworks to quiet highland trails, it’s a month of contrast and celebration.
With a Firefly Iceland rental car, you can experience both sides — the energy of the city and the peace of the open road.
👉 Book now at Firefly.is and make the most of Iceland’s final month of summer.
