If Iceland has been on your bucket list—or you’re dreaming of returning—August 12, 2026, is the perfect date to plan your trip. On this day, Iceland will witness a total solar eclipse for the first time since 1954!
This rare celestial event will briefly turn daylight into darkness as the moon fully covers the sun. The path of totality stretches across some of Iceland’s most breathtaking regions, including the Westfjords, Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and the Reykjanes Peninsula. Even Reykjavík will experience full eclipse conditions, though total darkness there will last about one minute.
Here’s the local timing of the event:
Partial eclipse begins: ~4:47 p.m.
Total eclipse begins: ~5:48 p.m.
Total eclipse ends: ~5:49 p.m. in Reykjavík (up to 2+ minutes near Breiðafjörður Bay)
Eclipse ends: ~6:47 p.m.
The best viewing locations for the longest duration of totality will be in the Westfjords and Snæfellsnes, near the point of maximum eclipse just off Breiðafjörður Bay.
This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see a total solar eclipse set against Iceland’s stunning natural landscapes—geysers, glaciers, volcanoes, and all. Whether you’re a seasoned eclipse chaser or a first-time viewer, Iceland offers the perfect blend of epic scenery and cosmic wonder.
Important Reminder:
Be sure to use certified solar eclipse glasses or other proper eye protection when viewing any part of the eclipse, except during the brief totality. For more information about the 2026 eclipse and eye safety, we recommend visiting NationalEclipse.com, a trusted source for eclipse facts and tips.
Estimated timeline:
12:00–14:00 – Arrive in Reykjavík & drop luggage at Center Hotel Laugavegur
(Early check-in not guaranteed; standard check-in from 15:00)
14:00–14:45 – Meet your Viking Women guide at the hotel
14:45–17:00 – Transfer & soak in the Sky Lagoon with its stunning ocean views
18:00–20:00 – Enjoy a delicious 3-course welcome dinner at Kopar Restaurant, by the Old Harbour
Included: Entry to Sky Lagoon, 3-course dinner at Kopar
Estimated timeline:
08:30 – Depart Reykjavík
09:15–10:00 – Explore Þingvellir National Park
10:45–11:30 – Witness eruptions at the Geysir geothermal area
11:45–12:30 – Marvel at the power of Gullfoss waterfall
13:00–15:00 – Hike the 6–7 km round-trip trail to Brúarfoss, the “blue waterfall”
15:30 – Return drive to Reykjavík
Included: Breakfast
Estimated timeline:
09:00 – Depart Reykjavík
09:45–10:15 – Stop at Lake Kleifarvatn
10:30–11:00 – Visit the Seltún geothermal area
11:30–13:00 – Hike up to the 2021 volcanic craters
13:15–14:15 – Lunch break (included or local café stop)
14:30–15:00 – Explore Gunnuhver hot spring
15:15–15:45 – Stand between continents at the Bridge Between Continents
16:00–18:15 – Head to Reykjanes Lighthouse for the Total Solar Eclipse at approx. 17:47
Included: Breakfast
Estimated timeline:
08:00 – Depart Reykjavík
10:00–10:45 – Walk behind Seljalandsfoss waterfall
11:00–12:00 – See Eyjafjallajökull & Hekla volcano from the road
12:30–15:00 – Glacier hike with certified guide (includes safety briefing, gear)
15:30–16:30 – Explore Reynisfjara black sand beach
17:00–17:45 – Admire the thundering Skógafoss waterfall
18:00 – Return to Reykjavík
Included: Breakfast, Glacier hike with equipment
Estimated timeline:
08:30 – Depart Reykjavík
09:30 – Stop at a local bakery for snacks & picnic items
10:00–13:00 – Hike the Glymur Waterfall trail (7 km loop, 220m ascent)
14:00–16:00 – Soak in the peaceful Hvammsvík Nature Baths (try the sea dip!)
17:30–19:00 – Enjoy a 3-course farewell dinner at Sjávargrillið
Included: Breakfast, Hvammsvík entry, 3-course dinner
Morning: Enjoy a final Icelandic breakfast
Transfer on your own to Keflavík International Airport (recommend Flybus)
Included: Breakfast
Experience the 2026 Total Solar Eclipse Tour in Iceland—witness rare darkness over stunning regions like the Westfjords, Snæfellsnes & More!
Get in touch with Your Friend in Reykjavik for all your Iceland travel planning needs. We love to help you plan the perfect trip, making personal recommendations for tours and activities you should check out during your visit. Craft your custom Iceland itinerary with our expert guidance!