Reykjavik in October
October weather, activities, events & insider tips
October Weather in Reykjavik
Is October Right for You?
Advantages
- Peak Northern Lights season begins - October offers 12-15 hours of darkness with clear visibility windows from 10pm-4am, before winter storms intensify
- Shoulder season pricing drops 30-40% from summer peaks while most attractions remain open - this destination tickets are 4,500 ISK vs 7,000 ISK in July
- Autumn colors transform Highland roads into spectacular drives - Route F35 to Kerlingarfjöll closes November 1st, making October your last chance
- Fewer crowds at major sites - Gullfoss and Geysir have 60% fewer visitors than summer, allowing better photography and peaceful experiences
Considerations
- Unpredictable weather with sudden temperature swings from 10°C to -2°C (50°F to 28°F) in a single day - Highland F-roads close without warning
- Daylight shrinks rapidly from 11 hours to 8 hours throughout the month - by October 31st, sunrise is 8:30am and sunset is 6:15pm
- Strong autumn storms bring 80+ km/h (50+ mph) winds that can cancel flights and close bridges - Ring Road sections near Vík regularly shut down
Best Activities in October
Northern Lights Photography Tours
October marks the beginning of aurora season with optimal viewing conditions. Darkness begins around 8pm, giving you 8-10 hours of potential viewing time. Weather is still mild enough for comfortable outdoor waiting, unlike brutal December conditions. Success rates in October average 70% on clear nights.
Golden Circle Highland Extensions
October is your final chance to access Highland routes like Kerlingarfjöll and Landmannalaugar before winter closures. F-roads close permanently around November 1st. Weather is challenging but manageable with proper 4WD vehicles. Autumn colors peak in early October across Highland valleys.
South Coast Glacier and Waterfall Tours
October offers dramatic storm-watching opportunities at Reynisfjara Beach and Skógafoss. Shorter daylight concentrates activities into 6-hour windows (10am-4pm), perfect for day tours. Fewer crowds mean unobstructed views of Seljalandsfoss and better ice cave access preparation.
Reykjavik Food and Culture Walking Tours
October coincides with Réttir (sheep roundup) celebrations, featuring traditional fermented shark and lamb dishes. Weather drives people indoors, creating cozy café culture perfect for 3-4 hour food tours. Traditional Þorrablót preparation begins, offering authentic seasonal tastings unavailable in summer.
Blue Lagoon and Geothermal Spa Experiences
Geothermal spas become essential in October's 2-7°C (36-45°F) temperatures. Contrast between 38°C (100°F) water and cold air creates magical steaming effects for photography. October shoulder season offers 30% lower prices and advance booking availability that disappears in peak winter.
Whale Watching from Reykjavik Harbor
October marks peak minke whale and white-beaked dolphin season as they feed before winter migration. Rough seas add adventure but success rates remain 80-85%. Harbor departure points remain ice-free, unlike northern ports. Tours run 2.5-3 hours with thermal suits provided.
October Events & Festivals
Réttir (Traditional Sheep Roundup)
Ancient farming tradition where sheep are brought down from Highland pastures. Features community feasts with traditional foods, folk music, and authentic rural Icelandic culture. Free to observe, with some farms welcoming visitors for traditional meals.
Iceland Airwaves Music Festival
Reykjavik's premier music festival featuring 200+ artists across 20+ venues citywide. Combines international headliners with emerging Icelandic talent. Transforms the city into a music hub with off-venue concerts and late-night club shows.