Everything You Need To Know About Iceland’s Solar Eclipse 2026

A solar eclipse at totality.

Mark your calendars! On August 12, 2026, Iceland will be one of the best places in the world to witness an awe-inspiring solar eclipse. As the Moon moves between the Earth and the Sun, the sky will momentarily slip into darkness, creating an unforgettable experience for witnesses all over the world. Whether you’ve been fascinated by this phenomenon for years or are just eager to see our first eclipse, Iceland’s dramatic landscapes and minimal light pollution make it an ideal destination for the celestial event. 

 

Why is Iceland the best place to see the solar eclipse in 2026?

The 2026 solar eclipse will be a partial eclipse across most of the continent of Europe, but thanks to a combination of the perfect location and wide open skies, Iceland offers unmatchable conditions for viewing the eclipse against a brilliant backdrop of glaciers, black sand beaches, and otherworldly scenery in general. 

This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience to be seen in Iceland, with the last one visible in June of 1954 and the next one being in 2196! This means that you’ll never be able to experience something like this again.

Here, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about seeing the eclipse in Iceland, from the best viewing locations to travel tips and accommodations. 

 

What is the 2026 Solar Eclipse?

First, let’s talk a little about science. If this doesn’t interest you, feel free to skip down to more adventurous sections! But it’s helpful to know that a total solar eclipse occurs when the Moon completely covers the Sun, which then casts a shadow upon the Earth. 

The path of totality (or the area of the earth where the moon will completely block the sun) for the 2026 eclipse will span across areas of the Arctic, Greenland, Iceland, the Atlantic Ocean, northern Spain and the northeastern edge of Portugal. In Iceland, the duration of totality (or how long the shadow will be cast) will be approximately 2 minutes and 13 seconds for those in optimal locations, but in the Reykjavík area, totality will last between around 25 seconds and 1 minute 2 seconds. Imagine staring up at a darkened sky for over 2 minutes! 

 

When Will the Solar Eclipse Occur in Iceland?

The eclipse will occur on Wednesday, August 12, 2026. Depending on where you are in the country, timings will vary slightly. 

General timings across Iceland: 

  • Partial Eclipse will begin at roughly 4:42 PM local Icelandic time.

  • Totality begins at ~5:43 PM.

  • Totality ends at ~5:50 PM.

Hornstrandir Nature Reserve on a sunny day.

The Best Places in Iceland to Watch the Solar Eclipse

When it comes to scenic locations for witnessing celestial events that happen only once every couple of years, Iceland has a range of options. It’s great news for visitors to Iceland that the areas surrounding Reykjavík are the best options for seeing the best of the solar eclipse, with the following areas lying within the path of totality.

 

Westfjords 

The Westfjords are a great place to observe Iceland’s solar eclipse for the longest period of time, with the first place to experience the eclipse being Straumnes Lighthouse in Hornstrandir - this could be an excellent place to observe the whole period, with totality lasting 1 minute and 26 seconds at this location.

This part of Iceland is also one of the most remote areas of Iceland, meaning that those who choose to visit the region can enjoy fewer tourists and amazing, dramatic fjord views.

Where to stay: Fosshotel Westfjords, overlooking pristine fjords, offers the perfect base if you want to view the eclipse from this part of Iceland.

 

Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Snæfellsnes is another great location from which Iceland’s solar eclipse is wholly visible. There are a number of beautiful places to combine with this phenomenon, where totality will last longer than 2 minutes. All populated areas of the peninsula, including Rif, Hellissandur and Ólafsvík, are great places to experience this once-in-a-lifetime event.

One area that is predicted to be popular is Grundarfjörður, where the eclipse will be visible behind the mighty Kirkjufell mountain, with a totality of 1 minute 50 seconds.  

Where to stay: If you’re looking to combine with an adventure in West Iceland, Fosshotel Stykkishólmur and Fosshotel Hellnar are close to key attractions and an ideal base for the solar eclipse.

 

Reykjanes Peninsula

Famous for its recent volcanic activity, the Reykjanes Peninsula could be a great place to combine both of these fascinating events at once! With photographic locations in abundance, including Garður and Sandgerði and even visible from Keflavík International Airport. 

One option here is, of course, the Blue Lagoon Geothermal Spa, where guests can relax in balmy waters while enjoying the totality of 1 minute and 36 seconds. 

Where to stay: Our range of hotels in Reykjavík offers great places to stay to travel to the Reykjanes Peninsula, with a 40-minute drive to this more southern area of the country.

 

Reykjavík & Surroundings

If you’re not spending long in Iceland or travelling around the country just isn’t an option for you, then sticking to the Reykjavík area might be the best option for you. While you’re in town, discover the top 10 things to do in Reykjavík.

Where to stay: Any of our seven stunning hotels in Reykjavík would make the perfect base for exploring the capital while visiting to observe the eclipse. Hotel Reykjavík Saga offers a boutique experience, while Fosshotel Baron is located right near the seafront, just a short walk from the harbour.

Mount Kirkjufell, Iceland.

How to Plan Your Trip to Iceland for the 2026 Eclipse

It’s worth bearing in mind that even without the excitement of a solar eclipse, Iceland is a very popular destination in the summer, and August is the peak time to visit. As such, you’ll want to plan far ahead so you don’t miss out or get hit by last-minute pricing. Here are our top tips for making the most of an eclipse break in Iceland!

  • Book your flights early. Flights to Keflavik Airport will be in high demand!

  • Reserve your hotels and rental cars as early as possible as well. All travel arrangements should be in place 12-18 months before August 2026 for the best deals and availability. 

  • Make sure to pack ISO-certified eclipse sunglasses. Looking directly at a solar eclipse is dangerous and can cause serious eye damage or even permanent blindness. The sun’s UV and IR rays can burn the retina and cause solar retinopathy. Safety first - glasses at the ready! 

  • Pack layers. Even though the eclipse takes place in August, which is summertime in Iceland, it’s always a good idea to prepare for all kinds of weather in Iceland. While snow is very unlikely, cold arctic winds and rain are not uncommon. Make sure to pack layers so that you can adjust your outfit throughout the day to adjust to the elements. 

Now you’re ready to make the most of a trip to Iceland and see the amazing solar eclipse of 2026. If you’re staying in one of our hotels, our team will be happy to assist you in any way we can during your visit.