What to Expect: Iceland Weather in March
Iceland is a country known for its stunning landscapes, unique culture, and unpredictable weather. If you're planning a trip to Iceland in March, you may be wondering what kind of weather to expect. In this article, we'll talk about the weather in Iceland in march and give you some tips on how to get ready for your trip.
Key Takeaways
- March in Iceland still feels like winter, with temperatures usually between -3°C and 4°C (27–39°F), plus plenty of wind, rain, and snow.
- The weather can change quickly during the day, so warm layers, waterproof clothes, and good boots are important for staying comfortable.
- March is a great time to see the Northern Lights because the nights are still long and dark enough for good visibility.
- Popular things to do in March include glacier hikes, hot springs, snowmobiling, winter tours, and exploring Iceland before the busy summer season starts.
- Renting a 4x4 is a good idea if you plan to drive, since snow, storms, and icy roads can sometimes make travel harder.
- Even in winter, Iceland gets around 12 hours of daylight in March, giving you enough time for road trips, sightseeing, and outdoor activities.
What is the Weather Like in Iceland in March?
March is considered the beginning of spring in Iceland, but don't let that fool you. The Iceland weather in march can still be quite cold and unpredictable. The average temperature in Iceland in March is around 32°F (0°C), with highs reaching up to 39°F (4°C) and lows dropping to 27°F (-3°C).
Rain and Snow
March is one of the wettest months in Iceland, with an average of 13 days of precipitation. This can come in the form of rain, snow, or a mix of both. The amount of precipitation varies throughout the country, with the south and west coasts receiving the most rain and the highlands experiencing the most snow.
Wind
Iceland is known for its strong winds, and March is no exception. The average wind speed in March is around 10 mph (16 km/h), but it can reach up to 20 mph (32 km/h) or more. This can make the already cold temperatures feel even colder, so be sure to pack warm layers and windproof outerwear.
Daylight Hours
In March, Iceland experiences around 12 hours of daylight, with the sun rising around 7:30 am and setting around 7:30 pm. This gives you plenty of time to explore the country, but be aware that the days are still quite short compared to other times of the year.
March 2026 Weather Report
Let’s review the weather in Iceland for March 2026, including temperature, precipitation, snow, sunshine, and wind, to see how it turned out.
March 2026 was colder than recent years, wetter than usual, and pretty unsettled. The weather changed a lot, and there were frequent storms and low pressure through most of the month. It caused quite a few problems, especially for travel. The month started with a heavy snowstorm in East Iceland on March 2, which led to disruptions. There were weather warnings somewhere in the country on many days, and there were also quite a few avalanches. Travel by land and air was often affected.
Here’s what the numbers say about March 2026.
(Most of this comes from Vedur.is)
Temperatures
March was colder than the past decade in most places.
- Reykjavík: The average temperature was 0.2°C (32.4°F), 1.0°C below the 1991–2020 average and 1.5°C below the last ten years.
- Akureyri: The average was 0.1°C (32.2°F), close to the long-term average but 0.2°C below the past decade.
- Stykkishólmur: The average was -0.2°C (31.6°F).
- Höfn in Hornafjörður: The average was 1.8°C (35.2°F).
Highest & Lowest Averages Nationwide
- The warmest average was 2.7°C (36.9°F) at Steinar under Eyjafjöll.
- The coldest average was -6.8°C (19.8°F) at Þverfjall.
- In places where people live, the lowest average was -4.2°C (24.4°F) at Svartárkot.
Temperature Extremes
- The highest temperature was 13.5°C (56.3°F) at Seyðisfjörður on March 19.
- The lowest was -24.1°C (-11.4°F) at Kárahnjúkar on March 26.
- In inhabited areas, it dropped to -23.5°C (-10.3°F) at Svartárkot that same day.
General Pattern
The first few days were cold. Then it turned milder for a while before cooling off again toward the end of the month.
The west was colder than usual compared to recent years, while the east was closer to normal. The biggest negative difference was around -1.7°C.
Precipitation
March was wetter than usual in most parts of the country.
- Reykjavík: 126.2 mm, about 56% above average
- Akureyri: 81.3 mm, about 71% above average
- Stykkishólmur: 120.6 mm, about 65% above average
Days with 1.0 mm or More
- Reykjavík: 19 days, 5 more than usual
- Akureyri: 16 days, 7 more than usual
Snow
Snow caused quite a bit of trouble during the month.
- Reykjavík: 20 days with full snow cover, 11 more than average
- Akureyri: 10 days, 12 fewer than average
Heavy snow made travel difficult at times, and there were several avalanches, especially in the Westfjords and the north.
Sunshine
It was still a fairly bright month.
- Reykjavík: 127.8 hours, 17.6 hours above average
- Akureyri: 90.2 hours, 12.4 hours above average
Wind
It was a windy month, with frequent storms.
- Wind speeds were above average across the country
- Some stations recorded their highest March wind speeds this century
The windiest days were March 2, 6, 7, 15, 19, 20, and 26. Travel disruptions were common both on land and in the air.
What to Pack for Iceland in March
When packing for Iceland in March, it's important to be prepared for a variety of weather conditions. Here are some essential items to pack for your trip:
Warm Layers
The key to staying warm in Iceland is layering. Be sure to pack plenty of warm base layers, such as thermal underwear, long-sleeved shirts, and wool sweaters. These will help keep you warm and dry, even in the coldest temperatures.
Waterproof Outerwear
With the high chance of rain and snow, it's important to have waterproof outerwear. A good rain jacket and waterproof pants will keep you dry and comfortable while exploring Iceland's beautiful landscapes.
Sturdy Shoes
Iceland's terrain can be rugged and slippery, especially in March when there may still be snow and ice on the ground. Be sure to pack sturdy, waterproof shoes with good traction to keep your feet warm and safe.
Accessories
Don't forget to pack accessories to keep you warm and protected from the elements. A warm hat, gloves, and scarf are essential for staying warm in Iceland's cold weather. Sunglasses are also a must, as the sun can be quite bright even in the winter months.
What to Do in Iceland in March
Despite the cold weather, there are still plenty of activities to enjoy in Iceland in March. Here are some ideas to add to your itinerary:
Northern Lights
March is one of the best months to see the Northern Lights in Iceland. With longer nights and clearer skies, you have a higher chance of witnessing this breathtaking natural phenomenon. Be sure to check the forecast and plan a trip outside of the city to get the best view.
Glacier Hiking
Iceland is home to some of the most stunning glaciers in the world, and March is a great time to explore them. With the right gear and a knowledgeable guide, you can hike on a glacier and experience its beauty up close.
Hot Springs
Iceland is known for its geothermal activity, and there's no better way to warm up in March than by soaking in a hot spring. The Blue Lagoon is a popular choice, but there are also many natural hot springs scattered throughout the country.
Winter Sports
If you're feeling adventurous, you can try your hand at some winter sports in Iceland. Skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling are all popular activities in March. Just be sure to book in advance and check the weather conditions before heading out.
Tips for Traveling in Iceland in March
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when traveling to Iceland in March:
Book Accommodations in Advance
March is a popular time to visit Iceland, so be sure to book your accommodations in advance. This is especially important if you plan on staying in a remote area or a popular tourist destination.
Be Flexible with Your Plans
Iceland's weather can be unpredictable, so it's important to be flexible with your plans. If a snowstorm hits, your flight may be delayed or canceled, and roads may be closed. Have a backup plan and be prepared to make changes to your itinerary if necessary.
Rent a 4x4 Vehicle
If you plan on driving in Iceland, it's recommended to rent a 4x4 vehicle. This will give you better traction on icy roads and allow you to explore more remote areas of the country.
Stay Safe
Iceland's weather can be harsh, so it's important to take precautions to stay safe. Always check the weather forecast before heading out, and be sure to dress appropriately for the conditions. If you plan on hiking or participating in any outdoor activities, be sure to let someone know where you're going and when you plan on returning.
Conclusion
Iceland's weather in March may be cold and unpredictable, but with the right preparation and mindset, you can still have an amazing trip. Be sure to pack warm layers, waterproof outerwear, and sturdy shoes, and plan for a variety of activities to make the most of your time in this beautiful country. With these tips in mind, you'll be ready to take on Iceland's March weather and create unforgettable memories.