- A solar eclipse will be visible in Iceland on August 12th 2026. In some parts of western Iceland, the eclipse will be total, meaning the moon will completely cover the sun for a short time. In other areas, it will be nearly total.
- A large number of travellers are expected in western Iceland. Roads, parking areas, restaurants and public places may be very busy. Please plan ahead and allow extra time for travel.
- Never look directly at the Sun without proper solar eclipse glasses. Normal sunglasses are not safe. Do not look at the sun through a camera, phone, binoculars or telescope unless the equipment has a proper solar filter.
- The eclipse will be a special event. Be patient, respect other people, and respect the nature.
At this time, (April/May) here is what we know:
- All accomodation is fully booked
- All restaurants are fully booked.
Be prepared!
- There is a high chance of serious traffic delays.
- Bring enough food for the day, whether you are travelling by car or by bus. Do not forget to bring enough to drink.
- Do not count on being able to buy food on the way. Also remember to bring enough food and drink for the journey back.
- Make sure the car has a full fuel tank before you leave.
- Bring extra clothes and blanket. Double check the people travelling with you.
- More details, what to do and not to do read here.
Planning your own trip
If you are travelling independently, it is a good idea to look at the following map. You can then think about the pros and cons of the areas where the total solar eclipse will be visible.
- Area 1: Reykjanes. Reykjanes is close to the capital area. The roads are the best in this area, and traffic control should be easier than in many other places. However, the total solar eclipse will last a little less time here than in areas such as Area 2 and Area 3.
- Area 2: Snæfellsnes. Snæfellsnes is, in many ways, an easy area to travel around. However, a lot of traffic is expected in this area. Because of this, there will be traffic control, and some roads may have one-way traffic. More information will be available on road.is and in the SafeTravel app.
- Area 3: The Westfjords. The Westfjords are the furthest away from the capital area and international airport . In places such as Látrabjarg, the total solar eclipse will last for the longest time. The disadvantage is that some roads are narrow. There are also difficult gravel roads in the area. In many places, there are only a few parking spaces. For this reason, same as for area 2, some areas will be closed for traffic when the parking spaces are full. Bus trips to areas such as Látrabjarg are being considered.
- On the following website, you can find very good and detailed information about everything related to the solar eclipse on August 12th:
Eclipse 2026 - We strongly recommend that you download and use the SafeTravel app for weather alerts, road condition and traveller information.
- Do not let Icelandic weather affect your experience. For guidance on clothing: Appropriate Clothing – SafeTravel
- Is anything unclear? Please contact us at safetravel@safetravel.is, or use the chat on this website.
Please note that the chat is answered by real person, so response time may vary.