Iceland in March: Handy Travel Guide

Thinking of hitting up Iceland in March? Oh, it’s a hidden gem! Imagine stepping into ice caves or watching the northern lights – it’s unreal! Pack for surprises though; the weather’s pretty unpredictable.

With Iceland in March you’ll see more sun than snow – a real mood-lifter! Here’s a tip: it’s the off-season, so you can snag some cheap hotels and cheap flights before the summer rush. And there’s a bunch of cool tours that let you soak in Iceland’s vibes under those dazzling northern lights.

March in Iceland? It’s like the island’s best-kept secret. You’re slipping in right after the Christmas rush and just before summer hits, so guess what? You practically get those breathtaking sights all to yourself – no jostling with crowds for that perfect photo.

And it’s not just about the scenery. Iceland in March has some quirky festivals and events that you won’t find anywhere else. Plus, if you’re into adventures, the ice caves are still epic, and northern lights? Absolutely still on the menu.

Want a few ideas to kick off your Icelandic adventure in March? Here’s what’s on my must-do list.

Is March a good time to swing by Iceland? You bet!

You can still dive into those cool winter adventures like checking out ice caves and chasing after those mystical northern lights. Plus, here’s the kicker – it’s not as jam-packed during this time.

But hey, there are a few things to consider if you’re planning a March trip to Iceland.

So, you’re mulling over renting a car in Iceland, huh? It’s a fab way to see the sights on your own terms. But let me give you the lowdown: Icelandic roads in March can be a bit like a winter wonderland obstacle course – think icy patches, sudden snowdrifts, and some pretty feisty winds. Oh, and let’s not forget those long, dark nights.

If you’re the confident, ‘I’ve got this’ type when it comes to driving in frosty conditions, then you’re in for a real adventure. Just a heads-up: make sure you go for a four-wheel drive. It’s pretty much your trusty steed during the Icelandic winter.

All the cars are kitted out with winter tires, but here’s a pro tip: ask for studded tires. They give you that extra grip and peace of mind, especially if you’re the ‘better safe than sorry’ kind. But remember, it’s a March thing – once April rolls around, it’s back to regular tires.

Alright, so you’re cruising around Iceland in March – it’s epic, but let’s talk about tackling that wild weather. When it’s coming down hard, keep your eyes peeled for those sneaky road markings hiding under the snow. And about parking? Choose wisely. Trust me, you don’t want to get towed. It’s not just pricey; it’s a real mood-killer, and it’s usually not covered by your insurance.

Now, driving in Iceland isn’t just about battling the elements. You’ve got to be a bit of a road detective too. Keep an ear out for avalanche or flood warnings – they can be a thing in March. My pro tip? Always, and I mean always, check the latest on the weather and road conditions before you hit the road. Better safe than sorry, right? Stay sharp and you’ll have a blast!

Did you know the old Icelandic calendar split the year right down the middle – six months for winter and six for summer? Pretty neat, huh?
So, according to this handy old-school way of thinking, March is still winter time in Iceland. That’s awesome news if you’re itching to try ice caving or chase those elusive northern lights.

But, here’s the cool part: March is also when days start stretching out a bit more and it’s not as nippy as the deep winter months. So, you’re not just stuck with winter-only fun.

Want the inside scoop on the top things to do in Iceland in March? I’ve got some ideas that’ll make your trip unforgettable!

Oh, have you heard about the electric blue ice caves in Vatnajokull glacier? They’re like something out of a fantasy movie! Seriously, one peek at a few snaps and videos, and you’ll get why folks from all corners of the globe flock there. But here’s the catch – they’re a bit of a seasonal exclusive, open just a few precious months each year. Lucky for you, March is in that golden window!

You’ll find some jaw-dropping cave tours in Southeast Iceland. Most kick off from Reykjavik, which is super convenient. If you’re up for an adventure, check out this three-day extravaganza. It’s a mix of ice caving and glacier hiking, and you’ll get to see show-stoppers like the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon and Skaftafell Nature Reserve. Trust me, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime kind of trip!

If you find yourself down in the southeast, there’s this epic Vatnajokull glacier ice cave tour that starts right at the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon. It’s like stepping into another world!

Now, remember to gear up with some solid hiking boots and cozy, waterproof clothes – Iceland’s beauty is matched by its ruggedness. And hey, wandering around glaciers on your own? Not the best idea. It’s way safer (and way more fun) to join a tour. They’ve got all the gear you’ll need, plus you get a guide who knows the lay of the land.

There’s also this amazing 2-day South Coast and Jokulsarlon lagoon tour. It’s up and running all through March. Picture yourself exploring ice caves by day and chasing the northern lights by night. Sounds like a dream, right?

Catching the northern lights in Iceland? Oh, it’s like winning the nature lottery, and guess what? March still gives you a pretty sweet shot at it.

Here’s the deal: if the sky’s clear and dark, and the sun’s doing its solar dance just right, you’re in for a spectacular show with the aurora borealis. It’s like nature’s own disco in the sky.

Now, the best way to chase those elusive lights? Jump on a northern lights tour. There’s a bunch leaving from Reykjavik. You could go for a cozy minibus tour, or, for something a bit fancier, how about a super jeep tour with a photographer guide? They’ll help you capture those magical moments.

And for something totally different, why not a northern lights boat cruise? Imagine floating in Faxafloi bay, away from all the hustle and bustle, just you and the lights.

Hanging around in Reykjavik might not be your best bet for northern lights spotting, though. The city lights can be a bit of a party pooper. But, if you don’t want to stray too far, there’s a ferry to Videy island. It’s close, but just far enough to give you a decent chance of catching the aurora.

Why not try renting a car and going on your own aurora hunt using Iceland’s northern lights forecast as your map? Just remember, the dark hours are your hunting grounds, so evenings are prime time for this adventure.

Now, renting a car in Iceland in March does come with a bit of a caution flag – the roads might still be snow-covered or icy. But if you’re up for driving in Iceland and feeling confident, it’s a fantastic way to discover the country’s beauty.

Heading out on a whale-watching tour in Iceland? You’re in for a real treat! When you’re out there on the waves, keep your eyes peeled for humpback and minke whales – they’re the usual crowd-pleasers. But hey, you might get lucky and spot orcas, fin, or even the majestic blue whales. And if it’s your day, you could even catch a glimpse of beaked, pilot, or sperm whales.

Most tours set sail from Reykjavik in those sturdy standard whale-watching boats. You know, with the weather being a bit unpredictable, they’re your best bet over those smaller RIB boats.

Or, if you’re up for a bit of a journey, head over to Olafsvik harbor on the Snaefellsnes peninsula’s north side. It’s a whole different vibe there. And then there’s Breidafjordur – a hot spot for orcas thanks to it being a herring haven.

Up north? Akureyri’s got you covered for whale watching too. The tour there takes you along Iceland’s longest glacial fjord – talk about a scenic route!

And if you’re all about packing in the experiences, why not mix it up with a whale watching and northern lights cruise? It’s like hitting two of nature’s jackpots in one go!

Guess what? Iceland in March is prime time for snorkeling and diving! One standout spot? The Silfra fissure in Thingvellir National Park. This freshwater spring boasts crystal-clear waters with visibility stretching over 300 feet (100 meters) – it’s like diving into a dream.

Now, brace yourself – the water temp hits about 35.6 F (2 C). But hey, don’t let that deter you! Snorkeling in Iceland? It’s a thrill like no other. People are flocking here for a reason – Iceland’s underwater beauty is simply mind-blowing!

But, before you gear up for some snorkeling fun in Iceland, here’s what you’ll need to tick off your checklist. Keep in mind, each tour provider might have their own twists on these rules:
For drysuit snorkeling:

You gotta be at least 12 but not older than 60. Height-wise, gotta stand at least 4 feet 9 inches (145 centimeters), and weigh in at a minimum of 106 pounds (45 kilograms). Oh, and you should be comfortable swimming, of course.

Now, for wetsuit snorkeling:
Minimum age bumps up to 14, and again, max age is 60. You need to stand about 4 feet 11 inches (150 centimeters) tall and weigh at least 110.3 pounds (50 kilograms). And yeah, gotta be a swimmer!

Switching to drysuit diving:
Ages 17 to 60, standing at least 4 feet 11 inches (150 centimeters), and hitting that 106 pounds (45 kilograms) minimum weight. Oh, and here’s the kicker – you either need at least 10 drysuit dives under your belt or be certified for it.

Most folks go for drysuits for snorkeling ’cause they offer better protection, but hey, some adventurers opt for wetsuits. Scuba diving? Always a drysuit gig. By the way, no diving or snorkeling if you’re pregnant. Plus, if you’re over 60, or over 45 and love your drinks or pipe, or have certain health history, waivers might be needed.

And hey, worry not! Experienced divemasters lead the tours. They’ll make sure you’re comfy with the gear and the chilly temps before you take the plunge.

Iceland’s got these amazing glaciers covering about 11% of the place – and they’re a major draw for visitors.

When it comes to glacier hikes from Reykjavik, most folks head to the Solheimajokull glacier. It’s like this arm of the Myrdalsjokull glacier down on the South Coast, about 98 miles (158 kilometers) from the capital. And guess what? It’s not far from some epic sights like Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss waterfalls and the Eyjafjallajokull volcano.

Now, here are two stellar ways to soak up Iceland’s glacier wonders: First, there’s the Solheimajokull glacier hiking tour. Then, there’s this 10-hour super jeep trip to the Eyjafjallajokull volcano and glacier. You even get a peek at the Solheimasandur DC plane wreck – pretty wild!

Oh, and there’s more! The glacier hike on the Falljokull glacier kicks off from the Skaftafell Nature Reserve in Southwest Iceland. It’s like heaven for hikers and a definite must-see for anyone craving Iceland’s natural beauty.
Snowmobiling in Iceland? Super thrilling and a total hit!

Most folks zip around on their snowmobiles on the Langjokull glacier, and some opt for the Vatnajokull glacier – it’s like the bigwig of European glaciers! For Langjokull, there are tours from Reykjavik or Gullfoss waterfall that you can join.

Here’s a cool hack: A bunch of travelers add snowmobiling to their Golden Circle tour. It’s like hitting two birds with one stone – you get the wonders of the Golden Circle and the thrill of snowmobiling!

Hey, if you’re headed to Iceland in March, caving tours are a must! Picture this: those lava tubes decked out with stunning ice formations—it’s like stepping into a frozen wonderland!

You’ve got icicles hanging above, and these ice stalagmites and stalactites make the caves feel straight out of a storybook grotto.
For an easy-breezy trip, there’s the family-friendly Vidgelmir lava cave tour or the Raufarholshellir lava tunnel cave tour. Both have smooth paths, making it a super relaxed adventure for everyone!

Horseback riding is big in Iceland, no matter the time of year. It’s not just a tourist thing; locals are into it too!

Riding an Icelandic horse? It’s like diving into the real deal of Icelandic life. These horses are a huge part of the country’s story and vibe.

Let me tell you about Icelandic horses—they’re something else! Tough as nails when the weather gets rough, but they’ve got a playful and smart side too. Meeting one? That’s like making a new buddy.

And here’s the kicker: these horses are famous for their fancy footwork! They’ve got five gaits, including this special move called the “tolt” that’s uniquely theirs. It’s like their signature dance move abroad.

Looking to saddle up for some horse riding in Iceland? There’s a heap of options to choose from!

Imagine trotting along Iceland’s incredible black sand beaches or riding with these beauties to unwind in the hot springs at Gufudalur Valley. It’s like stepping into a postcard!
Now, for a full-day adventure, why not blend horse riding with a Golden Circle tour? Or there are tours that toss in both whale watching and horse riding for an action-packed day!

Just so you know, while Icelandic horses are pretty tough and handle most weather, heavy snow in East and North Iceland might mean fewer riding tours happening there.

Iceland in March offers Loads to see. Nearly everywhere except the Highlands should be open for exploring. But hey, be ready for anything—the weather’s a bit of a wild card. Sometimes there’s flooding or a big snow dump, maybe even an avalanche, so stay tuned.Driving the Ring Road in March in Iceland

Now, the Icelandic Ring Road, or Route 1, is your go-to. You can usually cruise around the whole country in March. Go counterclockwise and you’ll hit the South Coast, cruise through the Eastfjords, zip across North Iceland, and then head down the western side (but don’t veer off to the Westfjords or Snaefellsnes Peninsula).

Most of the roads are well kept, no biggie. But watch out in the Eastfjords and the eastern side of North Iceland—those areas are a tad quieter and the roads might get snowy. So, keep an eye out if you’re heading that way!

Okay, listen up! The South Coast of Iceland? It’s like the hotspot! Loads of must-see spots right off Route 1.

You’ve got these epic waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss, not to mention glaciers like Eyjafjallajokull and Solheimajokull, and those cool coastal features—the Dyrholaey rock arch and the Reynisdrangar sea stacks.

Most of these places are good to go in March, but heads-up! The paths around Seljalandsfoss might get icy, so watch your step. And, hey, if you’re checking out Reynisdrangar from Reynisfjara black sand beach, keep an eye out! Sneaky waves there are no joke and can be seriously risky. Just stay closer to shore, alright?

The South Coast leg of the Ring Road ends at the incredible Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon. March, April, it doesn’t matter—this place stays magical year-round!

Now, moving along the next stretch between Reykjavik and Akureyri, you hit the lush western region. And trust me, you’ll want to make a pit stop! Hraunfossar area, the cool Barnafoss waterfalls, the Deildartunguhver hot spring, and hey, the Vatnsnes Peninsula—where seal-watching is top-notch!

As you journey north, the Ring Road brings you to the Lake Myvatn area. Seriously, it’s like entering another world here! And for Game of Thrones buffs, this is your jackpot. Lots of GoT scenes were filmed here—think “North of the Wall” where Mance Rayder’s troops set up camp. Pretty epic, right?

You can’t miss the Golden Circle in Iceland—it’s like the classic trip everyone raves about!
Easy to follow, even in March! This loop takes you to three big-time spots: Thingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall.

So, Thingvellir National Park? It’s the only UNESCO World Heritage Site on Iceland’s main turf! This place? It’s where they kicked off the Althingi way back in 930—the oldest parliament ever!

And get this: it’s right between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. That’s why it’s got such epic geology, like the famous Silfra ravine. Like, seriously mind-blowing!

Alright, Geysir Geothermal Area—cool story! You know the word ‘geyser’? Comes from Iceland’s very own ‘Geysir’—it’s like the OG hot spring geyser here.

Geysir’s taking a break, but its sidekick, Strokkur geyser? Now that’s the star! It’s like clockwork, shooting water up over 66 feet every few minutes. And the area? It’s a hotpot of hot springs, steamy vents, and bubbling mud pits.

And then there’s Gullfoss waterfall! It’s like the rockstar waterfall of Iceland, everyone knows it. And March? Not too shabby for a visit! Imagine this beauty with icy rocks around and snow all over—it’s like stepping into a fairytale.

Oh, and guess what? There are plenty of side trips along the Golden Circle, more hidden gems and natural wonders waiting to be discovered!

The Snaefellsnes Peninsula is open all year and draws a good crowd. People call it ‘Iceland in Miniature’ because it’s got a bit of everything packed in!

While mountain passes might be off-limits (better steer clear in March), you can still cruise along both sides of the peninsula.

Check out spots like Ytri Tunga beach—famous for its seals—Londrangar basalt cliffs, Snaefellsjokull glacier, Arnarstapi and Hellnar fishing villages, and Kirkjufell mountain. That’s just the start!

And hey, if this place casts a spell on you (which it probably will), why not bunk in Snaefellsnes? Makes sense to soak up every bit of its charm!

Okay, so March might not be prime time, but you could still sneak a peek at some of the East fjords—weather permitting, of course.

Sure, some roads might be snowed in, especially those high-up passes. But hey, you can still roll along the Ring Road and hug some coastal routes.

Stop by Egilsstadir, the bigwig town in the area. It’s your gateway to cool stuff like Hallormsstadarskogur forest and the mysterious Lagarfljot lake. And if luck’s on your side, you might hit up a few cute coastal villages—fingers crossed for good weather and clear roads!

Oh, and a heads-up: If you’re planning your own Eastfjords road trip in March, better snag a four-wheel-drive.

Reykjavik in March? Buzzing! Lots of action happens in Iceland’s capital during this time. Plus, with Easter vibes lingering into March, locals often get a good chunk of days off to celebrate.

And hey, Iceland’s got some quirky traditions up its sleeve during this period! Ever heard of ‘Bun Day,’ ‘Explosion Day,’ or ‘Ash Day’? Trust me, joining in on these can really jazz up your trip and give you a taste of local flair!

Alright, check this out! Iceland’s got this Battle of the Bands thing, also known as the Icelandic Music Experiments. It’s like this showdown for up-and-coming bands in Iceland, you know, those with peeps between 13 and 25.

And here’s the kicker—it’s like the launchpad for some real success stories! Like, remember Of Monsters and Men? They totally rocked the competition in 2010 and boom! Less than a decade later, they’re global stars!

Speaking of unique months, November’s got this cool gig called ‘Movember’ or ‘No-Shave November.’ It’s a thing in many places, where dudes grow out their ‘staches to raise awareness about men’s health issues.

And get this—city buses even stick mustaches on their fronts! It’s all about spreading the word in style.

They go all out with funky ads, even a beard competition to raise funds. How cool is that?

So, if you’re swinging by Iceland in March, think about growing your ‘stache to blend in! Or hey, you can snag special socks around grocery stores and shops to show your support. It’s all about joining the beardy crowd for a good cause!

Wondering about Iceland’s March weather? Well, it’s chilly! The temps usually hang around 28°F to 38°F (-2.2°C to 3.3°C)—pretty frosty, right?
Now, Reykjavik’s a tad warmer, but don’t be fooled. Even on its warmest days, it barely hits 54°F (12.4°C). And let’s not forget the chilliest recorded day—dropped to a shivering 9.5°F (-12.5°C)!

As for precipitation, you’re looking at about 3.3 inches (84 mm) on average every day. Rain’s the main player, but hey, snow’s been known to join the party too!

March feels like winter’s wrapping up, and daylight’s making a comeback. Check out how the sun’s doing its thing at the start and end of March:

March 1
Sunrise: 8:34 AM
Sunset: 6:46 PM
Daylight: 10 hours, 11 minutes

March 31
Sunrise: 6:48 AM
Sunset: 8:16 PM
Daylight: 13 hours, 27 minutes

March’s like, ‘Hey, here’s more sunshine for you!’ Longer days mean more time for fun and exploring. Isn’t that awesome?

When you’re planning a trip to Iceland in March, brace yourself for a mixed bag of weather. One moment it’s all sunshine and the next, surprise—it’s raining! So, before you step out, grab those waterproofs and cozy layers to keep the weather woes at bay!

March in Iceland demands a wardrobe update—thermal layers, wind-resistant jackets, a trusty hat, and gloves that’ll make your hands happy. And don’t forget to check the weather forecast daily! While March usually dodges major storms, sometimes those windy surprises pop up, so stay tuned for any weather alerts!

In March, tours in Iceland cover the best spots—think northern lights, icy caves, and stunning winter scenery. You’ve got options for how to enjoy these experiences on your Icelandic holiday.

One choice is booking a guided winter tour package. It sorts out everything—accommodation, transfers, and tours—before you arrive.

Another option is a self-drive winter tour. You’ll have a rental car to roam around and explore, but your itinerary and stays are pre-arranged.

For a mix of city life and country beauty, Reykjavik’s your base. There are cool day tours you can hop on from there to explore more of the country.

Iceland in March is like a crossover episode between winter and spring. Temperatures range from -1°C to 4°C (30°F to 39°F), so picture chilly winds and occasional snowflakes. Layer up with your warmest gear and pack those waterproof buddies—mother nature’s got surprises!

Curious about roads? Most stay open year-round, but rural ones might throw a snowy roadblock. Quick tip: peep the road conditions before you zoom off. And if you’re thinking of a four-wheel drive, that’s your snowy superhero!

Taking a scenic drive across Iceland in March? Totally on the cards! Just watch out for those snow-covered twists and turns. Staying ahead with road updates is like having your travel fortune teller. And that trusty four-wheel drive? Your secret weapon against the icy surprises!

Prepare for around 12-13 hours of daylight! The sun says hello around 7:30 AM and waves goodbye about the same time you’re thinking of dinner, around 7:30 PM. More sunlight? That’s extra time to explore and dive into outdoor adventures!

Winter in Iceland is an absolute playground! Think snowmobiling, hiking on glaciers, and climbing ice walls. Plus, you can’t skip the headline acts like the Northern Lights, ice caves, and those heavenly hot springs. Oh, and the Golden Circle route? It’s like the ultimate highlight reel with the Geysir geothermal area and the jaw-dropping Gullfoss waterfall.

If you’re all about that winter sports vibe, March’s your month! It’s the prime time for snowmobiling, glacier hiking, and ice climbing.

March in Iceland has some gems you wouldn’t want to miss. Picture yourself dog sledding or drilling a hole into a frozen lake for some ice fishing fun. And hey, ever been inside an ice cave? That’s another must-do! The wintry landscapes here are a painting waiting to be explored, and if you’re lucky, catching the Northern Lights is like witnessing magic in the sky.

Speaking of those dancing lights, they might just make an appearance in March. But remember, they’re natural performers, so there’s no guarantee they’ll take the stage every night.

Don’t miss out on the Reykjavik Food and Fun Festival! It’s a culinary extravaganza where top-notch chefs cook up a storm in the city’s finest restaurants. Plus, there are music battles, Easter celebrations, and even some St. Patrick’s Day cheer in Reykjavik. Lots to soak in!

Packing for Iceland in March is like getting ready for an epic snow adventure! Think heavy-duty coats, layers to keep you toasty, gloves, and a hat—stuff that says, “I’m taking on Iceland’s chill.” Waterproof boots? Absolutely. You’ll thank yourself when those icy roads come your way. Oh, and don’t forget your camera and binoculars for those incredible sights and a charger to keep your phone alive.

Budget travelers, listen up! March is the secret treasure trove. It’s the off-season, which means some hotels and tours might toss out some sweet deals. But hey, it’s still Iceland, so don’t expect it to be a steal.

March in Iceland’s pretty cool, but heads up, some spots might have quirky hours or even shut down, especially if they’re in the middle of nowhere. A quick check before heading out could save some surprises!

Puffins? Nah, not their time yet. But you might get lucky spotting other birds, like the snow bunting, hanging around!

The right clothing’s crucial. Roads might ice over, daylight hours are limited, and those avalanches, gotta be mindful of those. And hey, keeping an eye on travel updates is a smart move!