Iceland has two distinct seasons – summer and winter (also known as high season and low season). Depending on when you travel, you will have very different experiences. But what about the shoulder seasons? October/April fall in between seasons, which, for some people, might be the best time to visit Iceland. Why? If you visit Iceland in April, you can get the best of both seasons! Don’t believe us? In this blog post, we’ll give you eight compelling reasons why you should visit Iceland in April. From lower prices to the opportunity to witness the stunning Northern Lights while having enough daylight to sightsee, there are so many incredible experiences waiting for you. So, let’s dive in and discover why April should be on your travel radar!
1. Low season rates
April is considered off-season in Iceland, meaning you can benefit from lower rates on camper rental, flights, and various tourist activities. By traveling in April, you’ll get to enjoy all the stunning beauty of Iceland without breaking the bank. It’s the perfect opportunity to make your dream trip more affordable and accessible.
2. Winter but with Better Weather
Iceland in April: little bit of snow and a lot more of the sun
In April, you can experience all seasons in one go. Usually, it’s a lot warmer in the South and still wintry in the North. While you can expect some chilly temperatures, this month often sees a gradual transition into spring. Additionally, as the last month of winter, April brings with it the promise of milder weather. Usually, there are fewer storms that might disrupt your travel plans. The snow starts to melt, and you’ll witness the landscape transform into a vibrant mix of winter and springtime beauty. Which brings me to the third point.
3. Easier to travel the ring road
The famous Ring Road is a must-do for any Iceland adventure. This road loops around the island, offering incredible views of volcanic landscapes, majestic waterfalls, and captivating glaciers. Traveling the Ring Road in April is often a bit easier than during the winter months. With milder weather conditions, it’s less likely the roads will be closed. On top of that, there will be fewer tourists around, so you’ll have a more relaxed and enjoyable journey. Embrace the freedom of exploring Iceland’s nature at your own pace.
4. Feel Safer Traveling in a 2WD Camper
Although renting a 4×4 vehicle is often recommended during the winter months in Iceland, in April, the road conditions tend to be more favorable. As the snow and ice start to melt, you can feel more confident driving a regular, 2-wheel drive campervan. This flexibility gives you more options when it comes to selecting the perfect campervan that fits your needs and budget. Nevertheless, remember to always keep up-to-date with weather alerts and road conditions.
5. Still Possibility to See the Northern Lights
You still have chance to catch some Northern Lights in Iceland in April
One of the most magical experiences in Iceland is witnessing the dancing Northern Lights in the night sky. But you need dark skies to see them (that’s why there’s no chance of seeing them in summer when the sun never sets). If deep Icelandic winter is not your jam, you might want to consider coming to Iceland in April. During April (especially the first half of the month), you’ll still have a decent chance to see some Northern Lights. On top of that, you have longer days that will allow you to do more sightseeing, compared to 4-6 hours in December/January.
6. More open campsites to use (Hybrid)
Although there are plenty of campsites that stay open all year round, in April, many campsites start to open for the season, providing you with even more options to spend your nights amidst stunning landscapes. More campsites mean more flexibility. And we love the flexibility of traveling in a campervan at your own pace.
Embrace the flexibility of campervan travel in Iceland with Happy Campers
7. Longer Daylight Hours
As we slowly approach the midnight sun season, April brings longer days and more daylight for your travel adventures. Each day, you’ll have more time to explore and fit more activities into your travel plan. Do you see what I meant by saying “the best of both worlds”? You get 13 hours of daylight and still have a chance to go hunt for Northern Lights! You might end up being a little sleep-deprived, though.
8. Fewer Tourists Around
If you’re someone who enjoys avoiding crowds and relishing a more authentic travel experience, then April in Iceland is for you. Over the last few years, even May (which used to be not so popular) has gotten busy in Iceland. So, in April, you’ll have the opportunity to explore Iceland with fewer tourists and more intimate moments. This means you can take your time at popular attractions, connect with locals on a deeper level, and truly savor the tranquility and untouched wonders of this beautiful country. Bonus point – with melting snow from the highlands, the waterfalls show their full force.
Conclusion
So, there you have it! Eight compelling reasons why you should consider visiting Iceland in April. From the lower rates and better weather to the chance to witness the Northern Lights and explore the Ring Road with ease, this month offers a truly unforgettable experience. At Happy Campers, we are passionate about creating exceptional campervan adventures that allow you to immerse yourself in nature while promoting sustainable travel. Join our Happy Family and embark on an adventure of a lifetime. Start planning your April getaway to Iceland today, and get ready for an unforgettable journey!
Further Reading
What is the best season for a trip to Iceland? The truth is, there is no bad season for a trip to Iceland. Each season has its own pros and cons, and it all depends on what you want to see and do.
Resources to help you plan your trip. We make sure that you have all the tools, tips, and information you need before your trip. Check out our blog, extensive guides, and campsite map, and enjoy even more after booking a van.
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