Weather & daylight
What to expect when you land in April.
Daylight
14–17 hours (gaining ~6 min/day — fastest increase of the year)
Temperature
2 to 6°C (36–43°F)
Wind & storms
Wind chill makes it feel significantly colder
Precipitation
~12–14 rainy days; intermittent rain, sleet, and occasional snow
The honest picture
Why April works
- Long daylight hours — 14–17 hours of light for sightseeing
- Shoulder-season pricing — 30–40% cheaper than summer
- Fewer crowds — popular sites are manageable
- Peak waterfall flow — snowmelt creates the most dramatic cascades
- First puffin arrivals in late April
- Easter celebrations — unique Icelandic holiday traditions
What to know before you go
- Unpredictable weather — sunshine, snow, rain, and wind can all occur in one day
- Highland F-roads closed — no access to the interior
- Northern lights fading — only a slim chance in early April
- Ice caves closed — season ended by late March
- Some roads still icy — especially in the north and on mountain passes
- Limited rural services — some guesthouses still closed for winter
What to do in April
The best activities for this time of year, from locals.
Chase Snowmelt Waterfalls
April is when Iceland's waterfalls reach their most impressive flow rates. As highland snow melts and feeds into rivers, Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, Gullfoss, and Dettifoss swell to thundering volumes. The combination of high water flow and lingering ice creates dramatic contrasts. Seljalandsfoss is particularly spectacular at full spring force.
Spot the First Puffins
Atlantic puffins begin arriving at Icelandic nesting colonies in late April. The earliest arrivals appear at the Westman Islands, Látrabjarg cliffs, and Dyrhólaey near Vík. Sightings in April are not guaranteed — for reliable large colonies, plan for May or June. A Westman Islands boat tour in the last week of April gives the best chance.
Geothermal Bathing
The cool air makes hot pools feel even more luxurious in April, and you avoid summer crowds at popular spots. The Blue Lagoon and Sky Lagoon are open year-round and less busy than summer. The Reykjadalur hot river near Hveragerði becomes accessible in April, though the trail can be muddy from snowmelt. Municipal pools cost only 1,000–1,200 ISK.
Easter in Iceland
Easter is a significant Icelandic holiday spanning Thursday through Monday. Icelanders celebrate with giant chocolate Easter eggs filled with candy and a proverb inside — a uniquely Icelandic tradition. Reykjavik's bakeries produce special Easter treats. Shops may have reduced hours, so stock up on groceries and fuel beforehand.
Golden Circle & South Coast
The Golden Circle is fully accessible in April and far less crowded than in summer. Route 1 along the south coast is generally clear, though wet or icy patches are possible in early April. A standard 2WD rental car is usually sufficient for these routes. Waterfalls along the south coast are at their most powerful from snowmelt.
Reykjanes Peninsula
The volcanic landscapes, hot springs, coastal cliffs, and Bridge Between Continents are all accessible in April. If volcanic activity is ongoing at Sundhnúkagígar, you may witness an active eruption — check the Icelandic Met Office for current status. The Reykjanes Peninsula is excellent for photography with dramatic lava fields and coastal views.
Events & festivals
What's happening across Iceland in April.
Easter (Páskadagur)
April (dates vary by year)
A significant national holiday. The unique Icelandic tradition involves giant chocolate Easter eggs filled with candy and a paper proverb. Long weekend Thursday–Monday with many shops and services closed. Families head to countryside cottages, creating a festive but quiet Reykjavik.
First Puffin Arrivals
Late April
The earliest puffins return to their Icelandic nesting colonies in late April after months at sea. Numbers build through May. The Westman Islands and Látrabjarg are among the earliest sites. A boat tour from Heimaey gives the best late-April sighting chance.
Practical tips
Key things to know before you travel in April.
Do not pack for one type of weather — April delivers all of them in a single day
Check vedur.is daily and road.is every morning before driving
A 2WD car is sufficient for Route 1; 4WD recommended for Westfjords or northern back roads
Highland F-roads are closed until mid-June to early July — driving on them is illegal
Book Easter weekend accommodation several months ahead
The Blue Lagoon should be booked at least two weeks ahead
Carry sunglasses — with 14–17 hours of daylight, you will need them
Waterproof outer jacket, warm fleece, and thermal base layers are essential