Your Guide to the Total Solar Eclipse in Iceland 2026
Your Guide to The Total Solar Eclipse 2026 in Iceland with tips and information on visiting, camping, and traveling around Iceland in the summer
In August 2026, for the first time since 1954, a total solar eclipse will occur in Iceland and for the first time since 1433 it will be visible in Reykjavik!
A total solar eclipse happens when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun blocking the Sun from viewers on Earth. In the case of a total eclipse the Moon completely blocks sunlight from reaching the areas of Earth where the eclipse can be seen and in August, Iceland will be one of those places.
When & Where to View the Solar Eclipse in Iceland?
The next total solar eclipse will occur August 12, 2026 and will be visible in regions in the western part of Iceland–the Westfjords, Snæfellsness peninsula, Reykjanes peninsula and the Reykjavik Capital Area.
Why is Iceland a Great Place to See the 2026 Eclipse?
Iceland is one of the best destinations for the 2026 solar eclipse as the path of totality will pass over the country. It will last for about 2 minutes and before and after standing in awe of the total solar eclipse, visitors can explore this spectacular island of fire, ice, trolls, elves, majestic waterfalls, volcanos and rugged mountains.
August is a great time of year to visit Iceland. Late summer is when the Northern Lights can once again be seen in Iceland, in addition to the abundance of daylight to explore its natural wonders. With hours of daylight to play in, the chance to see Northern Lights dance across Arctic skies and a total solar eclipse, what more could an adventurer ask for?
Best Locations to See the Solar Eclipse in Iceland
From the vibrant streets of Reykjavik to the wilderness of western Iceland, the best places to see the total solar eclipse in Iceland will not disappoint. The path of totality will cross over the Westfjords, Snæfellsnes peninsula, Reykjanes peninsula and the Reykjavík Capital Area. Each region is a little different and has something unique to offer.
Westfjords
Known for its dramatic landscapes, deep fjords, towering cliffs, and sparse population, the Westfjords region of Iceland is a remote and rugged peninsula in the northwest of the country. It is one of the most untouched and least-visited areas in Iceland, offering pristine natural beauty and abundant wildlife, including puffins and Arctic foxes. Must-see sights include the spectacular Dynjandi waterfall, the bird cliffs of Látrabjarg, and natural hot springs like those at Hellulaug.
Snæfellsnes Peninsula
For visitors wanting to get a taste of Iceland’s diverse landscapes without traveling around the entire country, Snæfellsnes peninsula is the perfect place. On this peninsula just north and west of Reykjavik you will find all the natural wonders of Iceland–lava fields, volcanic peaks, a world-famous glacier (Snæfellsjökull), dramatic coastlines and even a black sand beach. Snæfellsness peninsula is dotted with charming fishing villages and is known for its rich folklore, hiking trails and such striking landmarks as Kirkjufell mountain.
Reykjanes Peninsula
Reykjanes peninsula can be said to be the heart of Icelandic geological activity. It is the site of much of Iceland’s recent seismic activity and where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet to form the Mid-Atlantic ridge. Geothermal areas abound on the peninsula and it is where you will find the Blue Lagoon, as well as Gunnuhver and Krýsuvik geothermal areas.
Reykjavík Capital Area
Reykjavik is a small capital city that packs a lot of punch. The northernmost capital in the world, Reykjavik has a dense concentration of art, history, culture and a surprising number of ice cream and record shops. Downtown Reykjavik is known for its colorful houses, striking views of the mountains and sea, geothermal pools and such architectural landmarks as Hallgrimskirkja and Harpa Concert Hall.
How to Increase Your Chances to See the Eclipse
Knowing when, where and how long the eclipse will last are the best ways to increase your chances of seeing the eclipse.
WHEN: Wednesday, August 12, 2026
WHERE:
- In Reykjavik, the partial eclipse will begin at 16:47:11 (04:47:11 PM) and the total eclipse will begin at 17:48:15 (05:48:15 PM). The total eclipse will last 1 minute and 2 seconds (1:02).
- In Ísafjörður in the Westfjords the partial eclipse will begin at 16:43:17 (04:43:17 PM) and the total eclipse will begin at 17:44:07 (05:44:07 PM). The total eclipse will last 1 minute and 31 seconds (1:31).
- In Grundarfjörður on the Snæfellsnes peninsula, the partial eclipse will begin at 16:45:14 (04:45:14 PM) and the total eclipse will begin at 17:46:03 (05:46:03 PM). The total eclipse will last 1 minute and 52 seconds (1:52).
- In Reykjanesbær on the Reykjanes peninsula the partial eclipse will begin at 16:47:11 (04:47:11 PM) and the total eclipse will begin at 17:48:04 (05:48:04 PM). The total eclipse will last 1 minute and 39 seconds (1:39).
Icelandic weather is notoriously unpredictable but if you are warm and cozy in a camper van, that won’t be one of your worries.
Hotel or Campsites? Where to Stay?
Total solar eclipses are events that most people don’t get the chance to experience very often. Booking a reasonably priced hotel for such an event will be difficult, if not impossible. A more affordable choice would be to rent a roof top tent and spend the time around this amazing celestial event camping in Iceland. Even the campsites will fill up quickly so it is best to make reservations as soon as possible.
Recommended Car Rentals for Your 2026 Eclipse Trip
Using public transport probably won’t be your best option for getting to the best places to view the total solar eclipse in Iceland. But renting one of our 4x4 (4WD) vehicles will get you where you want to go to view this unique event.
Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross
The aptly named Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is a small, reliable, fuel efficient SUV perfect for driving around the countryside in search of the perfect eclipse viewing spot. There is also the option to rent the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross with roof tent.
Dacia Duster
Perfect for the mountain roads (F-roads) in Iceland, the Dacia Duster with roof tent has low mileage, great fuel consumption and high ground clearance. With space for five passengers and a roof tent that sleeps two, there’s plenty of room to bring friends along to see the eclipse.
Unlimited mileage, CDW & Theft Protection included.
Suzuki Jimny
If a mini SUV is what you need, the Suzuki Jimny manual with roof tent fits the bill. Small but mighty, this mini SUV can navigate the F-roads of Iceland and provide a warm place to sleep after a day of exploring.
Jeep Renegade
Rent a Jeep Renegade and enjoy traveling and camping around Iceland in style. This versatile vehicle combines the off-road capabilities of a 4x4 with the convenience of a camper.
Do You Need Extra Insurance?
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) & Theft Protection are included in all rentals, but traveling on holiday can be unpredictable, especially when traveling on gravel roads in the highlands. To relieve some of the stress and worry of travel we offer a range of insurance packages to help our customers in case the unexpected happens. We offer four additional levels of insurance–Super Collision Damage Waiver, Gravel Protection, Sand and Ash Protection, and Theft Protection– all of which are available in Silver, Premium or Platinum packages.
What to Pack for the 2026 Eclipse in Iceland?
Apart from the usual outdoor gear and warm layers, including thermal underwear, fleece and waterproof parka, that one must pack for a trip to Iceland, you will also need to be prepared to safely view the eclipse.
Viewing a solar eclipse with the naked eye can result in severe eye injury. Eclipse glasses or handheld solar viewers should be used during the partial eclipse phases before and after totality.
Only when the Moon completely blocks the Sun during the totality can you view the eclipse directly without proper eye protection. When you can no longer see any part of the Sun through eclipse glasses or a solar viewer you will know it is safe to take off your eclipse glasses.
You should put your eclipse glasses back on as soon as you see even the slightest bit of the bright Sun reappear after totality.
Limited Availability: Reserve Early
Total solar eclipses don’t happen every day so reserve your 4x4 camper rental as soon as possible to make sure you don’t miss the chance to experience this rare event in the magical Icelandic wilderness.
Start Planning Your Trip Now
If you plan on visiting Iceland to see the total solar eclipse, you should start planning your trip as soon as possible. Check out our available rental cars and camper vans for your trip.
Frequently Asked Questions:
When is the 2026 total solar eclipse?
Wednesday, August 12, 2026 at 17:47:06 (UTC)
How long will totality last in Iceland in 2026?
The longest the total eclipse will last in Iceland is 1:52.
Can I see the eclipse from Reykjavík?
Yes! For the first time since 1433 a total solar eclipse will be visible from Reykjavik.
When was the last total solar eclipse?
The last total solar eclipse was in December 4, 2021 but was only visible from Antarctica. The last total solar eclipse to occur in Iceland was in 1954.
Should I book my accommodation and rental car now?
Yes! You should book your accommodation, 4x4 rental car, and/or camper van as soon as possible.
