Traveling around Iceland in 2026: what’s new?

Are you considering or planning a trip to Iceland in 2026? I’ve summarized everything that’s changing and everything you need to know about this year: volcanic eruptions, access, new hotels, tourism in general, an exceptional solar eclipse…

Here’s everything that’s changing for your trip to Iceland in 2026.

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Key facts about Iceland in 2026

In 2026, Iceland experiences an exceptional year marked by the total solar eclipse in August and volcanic activity that continues to fascinate without disrupting tourism. The country showcases its leadership in sustainable tourism while seeking to balance visitor numbers and preservation.

If you only want to know the essentials, here’s what will really characterize your trip in 2026:

• Total solar eclipse on August 12, 2026: an exceptional phenomenon visible from western Iceland (Reykjavík, Snæfellsnes, Reykjanes), so book even earlier!
• Continued volcanic activity in Reykjanes: accumulation of magma under Svartsengi with a high probability of eruption, but no impact on flights or tourist safety
• New mileage tax since January 1, 2026: ISK 6.95 per kilometer for all vehicles (replaces fuel taxes)
• Tourism down slightly: 2.253 million arrivals in 2025 (-0.4% vs. 2024), with concerns about insufficient off-season marketing
• Northern lights peak: 2026 is an optimal year for aurora viewing due to solar maximum

Volcanic eruptions and seismic activity: what you need to know

This is probably the topic that worries travelers the most, but ultimately it is very far removed from your everyday tourist experience in Iceland.

The series of eruptions on the Reykjanes Peninsula

Since early 2021, Iceland has experienced more than 10 volcanic eruptions on the Reykjanes Peninsula, a region that had been dormant for more than 800 years. The latest major eruption, the ninth in the series, occurred on July 16, 2025, with an eruptive fissure opening up over 2 kilometers in length.

Today, in January 2026, the situation remains under close surveillance. The Icelandic Meteorological Office reports that approximately 19 million cubic meters of magma have accumulated beneath Svartsengi since July 2025. The probability of a new magmatic intrusion and eruption remains high, with increased seismic activity in early January suggesting that a new eruption could occur.

The real impact on your trip

But here’s what’s important to understand: none of the eruptions on the Reykjanes Peninsula have had any effect on flights to or from Iceland. No lives have been endangered by these eruptions. Authorities have confirmed that the current volcanic activity does not threaten the country’s major infrastructure.

The Blue Lagoon and the small town of Grindavik are regularly evacuated as a precaution during eruptions, then quickly reopen once the situation has stabilized. In 2026, the Blue Lagoon continues to operate normally between volcanic episodes, with occasional temporary closures of a few days throughout the month.

For you, in practical terms, as long as no other volcanic areas become active, this means that your trip to Iceland remains perfectly safe. The main tourist areas—the Golden Circle, the south coast, Reykjavík, and the northern and western fjords—are completely unaffected by the activity in Reykjanes.

Take the time to stay informed via the Met Office website.

Attractions: New additions, closures, and renovations

There’s no chance of getting bored on a road trip in Iceland. There are so many discoveries to be made. No particular closures in 2026.

No major closures

Unlike other years, 2026 will see no major closures or renovations of Iceland’s main attractions. The iconic sites of the Golden Circle—Thingvellir National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the Strokkur geyser in Geysir that erupts every few minutes, and Gullfoss waterfall—will all be open as usual.

Iconic waterfalls such as Skógafoss, Seljalandsfoss, and Godafoss, the black sand beach at Reynisfjara, the glacial lagoon at Jökulsárlón, and the entire Ring Road remain fully accessible.

The Blue Lagoon: open with caution

The famous Blue Lagoon continues to operate in 2026, with occasional temporary closures due to nearby volcanic activity. These closures are usually short (a few days) and announced in advance. After each reopening, the experience remains the same: geothermal waters at 39°C, silica masks, and a unique atmosphere.

If you are determined to visit the Blue Lagoon, I recommend that you keep your schedule flexible and keep an eye on official announcements.

Reykjanes Geothermal Area

The Reykjanes Peninsula is home to several geothermal areas that may be closed due to eruptions.

New

A new geothermally heated lagoon has opened on the Golden Circle: Laugarás Lagoon. It is a two-story lagoon with a gourmet restaurant.
Buy your ticket

Ice caves: the ultimate winter experience

For winter travelers (October to March), the natural ice caves of the Vatnajökull glacier are one of Iceland’s most spectacular experiences. The West and East Ice Caves offer breathtaking crystal blue ice formations, accessible only with professional guides.

Opening dates depend on weather conditions to ensure the stability of the caves.

The total solar eclipse of August 12, 2026: the event of the year

This is the exceptional astronomical event of 2026 in Iceland. On Wednesday, August 12, 2026, a total solar eclipse will cross western Iceland, including Reykjavík. This is the first total solar eclipse in continental Europe since 1999, and it has not occurred in Iceland for over 70 years.

Where to observe the eclipse

The eclipse will be visible in the westernmost part of the country: Hornstrandir, Látrabjarg (in the West Fjords), the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Reykjavík, and the Reykjanes Peninsula. The maximum duration of the total eclipse will be 2 minutes and 18 seconds in the ocean just west of Látrabjarg.

It will take place in the late afternoon.

Be prepared for overcrowding

Given the rarity of this event, expect accommodation in western Iceland, including campsites, to be completely full.

If you want to experience this, book as early as possible. There are many organized tours available, including boat trips from Reykjavík to view the eclipse from the ocean, surrounded by breathtaking scenery. A special festival, the Iceland Eclipse Festival, will be held from August 12 to 15 with concerts, lectures, and workshops. See options

Northern Lights: the best year

If you’re traveling between September and March, 2026 is an exceptional year for viewing the Northern Lights. We are at the peak of solar maximum, which greatly increases the chances of seeing these dancing lights in the sky.

Many guided tours depart from Reykjavík every evening. I recommend planning several nights to maximize your chances, as the weather remains unpredictable.

Lots of tips in my dedicated article.

Traveling to Iceland in 2026

Keflavík Airport: the only gateway

Keflavík International Airport accounts for 99% of all international arrivals in Iceland. In 2025, the airport recorded 2.253 million international arrivals, a slight decrease of 0.4% compared to 2024.

No major changes are expected.

It’s time to book!

Compare everything: airlines, prices, schedules, and availability.

Getting around Iceland

Car rental: freedom with a new tax

Car rental remains the most flexible way to explore Iceland.

Big change in 2026: the mileage tax

Since January 1, 2026, Iceland has introduced a mandatory mileage tax of ISK 6.95 per kilometer for all vehicles, replacing part of the fuel taxes. This tax applies to all rental cars, whether gasoline, diesel, hybrid, or electric.

For a 7-day trip covering approximately 1,500 km (typical for a tour of the Golden Circle and the south coast), expect to pay around ISK 10,425 (€75) in mileage tax, in addition to fuel.

Despite this tax, electric vehicles remain the most economical option due to the lower cost of electricity. The network of charging stations has expanded considerably on the main roads.

Find out more in my articles: renting a car in Iceland and driving in Iceland.

Public buses: extensive network

If you prefer to avoid driving, the Strætó public bus network is more extensive than you might think. The public company operates year-round with 27 routes in the capital region, providing urban transport in Reykjavík and Akureyri, and serving the south coast to Höfn, the Snæfellsnes peninsula, the northwest fjords, north to Siglufjörður, and east to Egilsstaðir.

For inland destinations, Highland buses operate during the summer (mid-June to mid-September 2026) to popular hiking destinations such as Landmannalaugar, Þórsmörk, and Skógar.

No Uber or Bolt identified

For now, there is no Uber, Lyft, or Bolt. Traditional taxis are available at airports and hotels.

New hotels – opening in 2025/2026

Black Sand Hotel: the flagship opening in January 2026

This is the most eagerly awaited hotel opening of the year in Iceland. The Black Sand Hotel will open its doors in early 2026 in the Ölfus region on the south coast. The hotel has 70 rooms and 9 suites with a minimalist Nordic design, featuring natural materials (stone, wood, wool) and huge bay windows offering breathtaking views of the black volcanic sand beach, the North Atlantic Ocean, the surrounding mountains, and the Ölfusá River.

See photos and availability

Scheduled to open in 2026

• Hofdir Lodge
• Hotel Akureyri
• Skald Hotel

For more ideas, see my article: Where to stay in Iceland.

State of tourism in Iceland in 2026

Slight slowdown

The Icelandic tourism sector is concerned about 2026. The country is losing ground to competing destinations after reducing its international tourism marketing efforts. Booking data shows worrying declines outside the summer season, particularly in the first quarter and in October-November.

This situation reflects the Icelandic government’s desire to reduce the country’s dependence on tourism and avoid overtourism, while seeking a balance between environmental preservation and economic development.

For you, in practical terms, this means that you may find better deals if you travel off-season, but that some air connections may be reduced, particularly in winter and spring.

Leader in sustainable tourism

This is undoubtedly the area in which Iceland will shine the most in 2026. The country is positioning itself as a global model for sustainable tourism.

Here are a few figures that illustrate this commitment:

• 100% renewable electricity produced locally, mainly through geothermal and hydroelectric power
• More than 300 tourism companies have signed a declaration to practice responsible and ethical tourism
• Carbon-neutral bus tours: operators such as Reykjavík Excursions now offer fully carbon-offset sightseeing tours
• Modernized infrastructure: parking lots designed to limit illegal parking, wooden walkways to protect fragile vegetation, toilets and services in remote areas, paid admission to finance maintenance

The famous Blue Lagoon runs entirely on geothermal energy, providing hot water for 17,000 homes and electricity for 45,000 homes.

Events and festivals 2026

Iceland offers a dynamic cultural scene all year round, with a particular concentration in Reykjavík.

Winter

• Dark Music Days (January 29-31): contemporary and experimental electronic music festival at Harpa and Hallgrímskirkja
• Reykjavik Winter Lights Festival (February 5-8): colorful illuminations, cultural events, family activities

Spring

• Reykjavík Blues Festival (mid-April): European, Icelandic, and American blues artists
• Children’s Culture Festival (April): a week dedicated to arts for children and young people

Summer

• Reykjavík Arts Festival (May 30-June 14): major multidisciplinary biennial
• Viking Festival Hafnarfjörður (mid-June): Viking reenactments, medieval market
• Icelandic National Day (June 17): parades, theater, festivities throughout the country
• Reykjavík Pride (August): LGBTQ+ celebration with tens of thousands of participants

Eclipse and end of summer

• Iceland Eclipse Festival (August 12-15): transformational gathering with concerts, lectures, and workshops for the solar eclipse
• Reykjavík Culture Night (August 22): the capital’s biggest anniversary festival, with free events throughout the city
• Reykjavík Jazz Festival (late August): big names in Icelandic and international jazz

Fall

• Reykjavík International Film Festival (September-October): 11 days dedicated to international cinema
• Iceland Airwaves (November 4-7): internationally recognized music festival, with around 200 bands from 30 different countries

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