Solar Eclipse 2026

in Iceland from a Campervan

Explore Iceland in a camper and experience the solar eclipse from the most spectacular locations.

Pickup

Keflavík Intl. Airport (KEF)

Date

Add date

Time

12:00

Return

Keflavík Intl. Airport (KEF)

Date

Add date

Time

12:00

Promo

4.7/5

Path of the 2026 Solar Eclipse in Iceland

This time-lapse map shows how the umbral shadow of the solar eclipse will pass across Iceland on August 12, 2026. The visualization highlights the path of totality and where in Iceland the eclipse will be visible, helping travelers plan the best locations to experience this rare astronomical event.

Video Credit: Iceland at Night

Recommended Campers for the Eclipse

Experiencing the 2026 total solar eclipse in Iceland is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, and the best way to make the most of it is with the freedom of a campervan. With a camper, you can chase clear skies, stay close to the path of totality, and wake up surrounded by Iceland’s dramatic landscapes, ready for the show in the sky.

4x4 TOP Camper

a man and a woman are sitting at a picnic table with a van in the background .

Lite Camper

a woman is sitting in the back of a van .

BIG Camper

a man is sitting on top of a jeep with a tent on top of it .

4x4 Wrangler

the sun is partially obscured by the moon during an eclipse .

Timing for the 2026 Eclipse in Reykjavík (Local Time)

A solar eclipse is a rare experience that unfolds in stages. First, the Moon takes a small bite out of the Sun, then slowly covers it completely, bringing an otherworldly darkness. At its peak, the sky transforms, offering one of nature’s most breathtaking sights.

Start of Partial Eclipse 16:47:21

Start of Total Eclipse: 17:48:20

Maximum Eclipse: 17:48:48

Recommended Viewing Spots for Solar Eclipse 2026

a group of boats are docked in a harbor with mountains in the background .

Duration: 2:13 min

Westfjords Iceland

3 hours from Reykjavík

there is a stone building in the middle of a field with a mountain in the background .

Duration: 2:07 min

Snæfellsnes Peninsula

2 hours from Reykjavík

an aerial view of a black sandy beach with a mountain in the background .

Duration: 1:47 min

Reykjanes Peninsula

40 min. from Reykjavík

Duration: 1:02 min

Reykjavik City Center

40 min. from Airport

Safety Guidelines for Watching the Solar Eclipse in Iceland

Always use certified eclipse glasses

Never look directly at the sun without proper ISO-certified solar viewing glasses, except during the brief totality phase when the sun is completely covered.

Protect your equipment

If photographing or filming the eclipse, use a solar filter on cameras, binoculars, or telescopes to prevent permanent damage.

Plan safe viewing conditions

Choose a stable, open location away from traffic, and keep children supervised while observing the eclipse.

Follow the timing of totality

Only remove your eclipse glasses during the brief total eclipse when the sun is fully covered. As soon as any sunlight reappears, put them back on immediately.

Read our full Guide for the 2026 Solar Eclipse in Iceland

Discover everything you need to know about the total solar eclipse in Iceland on August 12, 2026. Our complete guide covers the path of the eclipse, the best viewing locations, travel tips, and what to expect during this once-in-a-lifetime event.

Read Solar Eclipse Guide Now

Frequently Asked Questions

The total solar eclipse in Iceland will take place on August 12, 2026. This rare celestial event will be visible across parts of Iceland, offering travelers and locals a once-in-a-lifetime viewing experience.

In Iceland, the totality of the eclipse will last around 1–2 minutes, depending on the viewing location. The partial phases before and after totality will extend the overall experience to about two hours.

The solar eclipse will begin in the early afternoon of August 12, 2026, with totality occurring shortly after. Exact timing depends on your location in Iceland, so it’s best to check local eclipse maps and timetables closer to the event.

Yes, you’ll need ISO-certified solar eclipse glasses to safely view the partial phases. Only during the brief totality can you safely look with the naked eye, but protective eyewear is essential for the rest of the event.

August in Iceland typically brings mild summer weather, with average temperatures between 10–15°C (50–59°F). However, cloud cover can be unpredictable, so flexibility in your location will increase your chances of clear skies.

Absolutely. Iceland combines breathtaking landscapes with the rare spectacle of a total solar eclipse. Travelers can enjoy volcanoes, waterfalls, glaciers, and hot springs before or after witnessing the eclipse.

International travelers can fly into Keflavík International Airport (KEF) near Reykjavík. From there, rental cars and campers are the most flexible options for reaching prime eclipse viewing spots across the country.