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Is September a good time to visit Iceland?
With chillier temperatures and earlier sunsets, the start of fall means that northern lights season is officially here at Hotel Rangá. But it’s not only the nights that are filled with glorious colors—this new season shows the Icelandic landscape at its best with the vivid hues of changing fall foliage.
We are taking advantage of the beautiful colors by exploring outdoors and suggest you do the same—just remember to dress for the cooler fall weather. Iceland in September is a gorgeous month perfect for horseback rides, berry-picking and northern lights hunting.
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What time is sunrise and sunset in Iceland in September?
On September 1st, sunrise is at 6:11 and sunset is at 20:41. By September 30th, sunrise is at 7:35 and sunset is at 18:58. This puts us at about 12 hours of daylight and 12 hours of darkness by the end of the month.
What is the weather like in Iceland in September?
You know what the internet says: Winter is coming! And honestly, our cold ears can tell too. September has an average high of 52°F (11°C) and an average low of 43°F (6°C). Sometimes we get sunny days that feel like an extension of summer. However, other days can be rainy with lots of wind. Given the unruly temperament of the Icelandic weather gods, it’s best to come prepared and dress in layers.
What should I wear in Iceland in September?
Pair a beanie with a warm sweater (Icelandic wool anyone?) and a light jacket. You can also bring out the winter parka if you feel so inclined. September brings beautiful fall colors and often rain but remember, your umbrella is no good here. Icelandic rain falls left right and even up but rarely straight down and the winds are likely to grab your umbrella faster than you can – stick to your raincoat, rain pants and waterproof shoes.
What are the road conditions in Iceland in September?
Typically, road conditions are quite good in Iceland in September. However, there is always the chance of a windy fall storm or even a light dusting of snow. If you find yourself on the road during such conditions, it is a good idea to slow down and pay attention.
Should I rent a car in Iceland in September?
We highly recommend that Hotel Rangá guests rent a car in Iceland in September. With your own set of wheels, you will be able to explore at your own pace. Renting a car is also more cost effective than hiring a private driver. Furthermore, road conditions are generally quite good in Iceland in September.
If you want to visit the Icelandic highlands in September, you will need to join a guided tour. The roads to the Icelandic highlands close at the end of August. At that point, only super jeeps driven by licensed guides are allowed up into the Icelandic highlands.
What are the best outdoor activities in Iceland in September?
Fall is a wonderful time for families to explore the south coast. With many adventures to choose from, we can help you plan activities tailored to children of all ages. Take a dip in our hot tubs, ride an Icelandic horse, or drive a buggy on a black sand beach. Your kids will be sure to have a great time exploring Iceland.
Taking a horseback ride is an excellent way to experience the stunning colors of fall in Iceland. In fact, Icelandic horses are one of the oldest breeds of horses on the globe, and their impressive strength and ability to endure all weather means that they are well suited to traverse rivers, lava fields, steep mountainous terrain and even glaciers.
- Learn more about the Icelandic horses in this blog post.
- Read about the horse tours we offer here.
At this time of year, you may notice locals walking across moss-covered lava fields holding baskets filled with berries. The early autumn is a popular time to go berry-picking – or berjamó in Icelandic. Ask in the reception, and we will share all our best berry-picking spots.
The roads into Landmannalaugar will close for the winter in mid-September in Iceland, but now is the perfect time to see the highlands in all their colorful glory. Please note that it’s incredibly important to have the right equipment and appropriate vehicles, you may even want to take a guided tour to get the most out of your visit. Contact our reception for information about tours, guides and safety in the highlands.
What are the best indoor activities in Iceland in September?
After exploring outdoors, head back to Hotel Rangá for a cozy evening of relaxation and indulgence. First, grab a drink at the Rangá Bar. September in Iceland can get chilly, so we highly recommend a hot toddy or Irish coffee to warm you up from the inside out. Next, take your beverage upstairs to our comfortable lounge. As you sip your drink, you can enjoy stunning views of the Rangá River to the south and the Eyjafjallajökull glacier-volcano to the east.
If you are in the mood for a bit of exploration, go for a wander around Hotel Rangá to enjoy our eclectic art collection. We are passionate about showcasing Icelandic artwork and have decorated our property with incredible pieces in a multitude of styles and forms. You can even check out Rangá Review 13 to follow a special artwork scavenger hunt around Hotel Rangá.
Can I visit geothermal hot springs and swimming pools in Iceland in September?
September is a perfect month to soak in a geothermal hot spring. If you are feeling a bit adventurous, we recommend a hike to a rustic hot spring. Pictured above is the unique Reykjadalur hot spring river that is located just outside the town of Hveragerði. Want to experience something a bit more luxurious? Hotel Rangá has three geothermal hot tubs that feature excellent views of the Rangá River – and close access to the Rangá Bar!
Can I go stargazing in Iceland in September?
September is a great month to go stargazing in Iceland. Summer’s midnight sun is completely gone, providing us with dark nights that are perfect for enjoying the stars. In September, we open up our Rangá Observatory and host a local astronomer on clear nights. The astronomer will show you how to use our two powerful telescopes to see distant stars and planets.
Can I see the northern lights in Iceland in September?
September in Iceland is northern lights season! If we are lucky, we see the northern lights multiple times during September. In order to see the northern lights, we need three things: dark nights, clear skies and solar activity. We always recommend that our guests book a stay at Hotel Rangá for several days. This gives you multiple chances for the northern lights to appear.
What’s more, when you stay at Hotel Rangá, you don’t have to worry about missing the northern lights. Hotel Rangá offers all guests a special aurora wake-up service. That’s right – our receptionists and night guard watch the skies all night. If the aurora makes an appearance, we will call your room and wake you up. All you need to do is step outside to get a beautiful view of the northern lights.
What foods do Icelanders eat in September?
September is the start of wild game season in Iceland. Hunting has been practiced by Icelanders for centuries. This skill is often handed down from generation to generation. What’s more, strict regulations are in place to ensure that wildlife populations remain healthy and sustainable.
The most common types of wild game in Iceland include ducks, geese, ptarmigan, seabirds and reindeer. To celebrate the season, chefs at Hotel Rangá always prepare a special wild game menu in September. Enjoy dishes such as pan-fried reindeer with wild crowberry glaze, smoked duck with pickled onion and even goose liver pâté with plum and pistachio crumble.
Are there any special traditions in Iceland in September?
During the summer, Icelandic sheep run wild in the highlands. Now that fall is upon us, farmers will be flocking to the mountains with friends, family, and whoever else wants to lend a helping hand to round up the sheep and bring them down to be sorted in a process known as réttir. Many farmers are happy to have tourists take part, so make sure to ask our reception if there are réttir happening during your stay.
During réttir, the sheep are sorted in a wooden sheepfold. Farmers and volunteers herd the sheep into an inner circle surrounded by compartments assigned to each farm. Then, going by their earmarks, they are dragged into the appropriate pens. It’s a tradition filled with food, drinks and dances known as réttarböll. This is also a time to be thankful for Icelandic sheep. For centuries, these hardy creatures have supplied Icelanders with fresh meat and warm wool.
