https://nationaleclipse.com/maps/main/2026-total-solar-eclipse-maps.html
On Wednesday, 12 August 2026, Iceland will be right in the path of the Solar Eclipse of August 12, 2026 — a rare moment when the moon will completely cover the sun for some locations in western Iceland. This makes the event a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity — especially when paired with Iceland’s dramatic landscapes.
A solar eclipse happens when the moon passes between the Earth and the sun, blocking all or part of the sun’s light. During a total solar eclipse, the moon completely covers the sun, and the sky briefly turns dark as if it were night. A partial eclipse occurs when only part of the sun is obscured. These events can only happen during a new moon and are visible only from certain places on Earth. Solar eclipses are rare and spectacular natural phenomena that remind us of the precise movements of our solar system.
Recommended Viewing Locations & Trip Ideas
The Moon’s umbra first touches Iceland’s westernmost tip and then sweeps southeast. Below is a summary of start and end times for totality and the duration for key locations. All times are approximate and in local time; consult Eclipse2026.is for precise coordinates.
| Region or Town | Start of Totality | End of Totality | Duration | Highlights |
| Látrabjarg (Westfjords) | ~17:44 | ~17:46 | 2 min 13 s | Longest darkness on mainland; dramatic sea cliffs with puffins and remote scenery. |
| Ísafjörður (Westfjords) | ~17:44 | ~17:45 | 1 min 31 s | Largest town in the Westfjords; fjord views and amenities. |
| Hellissandur/Ólafsvík (Snæfellsnes) | ~17:45 | ~17:47 | 2 min 6 s | Easy access on paved roads; near Snæfellsjökull National Park and fishing villages. |
| Grundarfjörður (Snæfellsnes) | ~17:46 | ~17:47 | 1 min 50 s | Base for Kirkjufell mountain; balanced duration and picturesque harbour. |
| Reykjavík | 17:48:12 | 17:49:13 | ~1 min | City convenience; head to Grótta Lighthouse or hilltops for unobstructed views west. |
| Akranes/Borgarnes | ~17:47 | ~17:48 | 40–62 s | Ring Road towns offering quick alternatives if Reykjavík clouds over. |
| Garður/Sandgerði/Keflavík (Reykjanes) | ~17:48 | ~17:49 | 1 min 38–40 s | Close to airport; ocean vistas and access to geothermal sites. |
| Reykjanestá Lighthouse | ~17:49 | ~17:50 | 1 min 47 s | Last mainland point for totality; rugged lava coastline and wave‑lashed cliffs. |
| Outside the path | – | – | 96–98 % partial | Northern and eastern towns like Akureyri or Höfn see an impressive partial eclipse but no totality. |
Practical Planning & Tips
☁️ Weather & Visibility
Icelandic weather is famously changeable. Clouds can ruin the view — being mobile with a car gives you a backup plan. Choose a vantage point with a wide horizon and minimal obstruction
🕶️ Eye Safety
Never look at the sun without proper solar eclipse glasses during the phases before and after totality. Only during the brief moment of totality (when the sun is fully covered) is it safe to glance without filters — and then only if you’re absolutely sure the sun is completely obscured.
📸 Photo & Video Tips
- Use a wide-angle or landscape lens to capture the environment, not just the sun.
- Consider a time-lapse of the sky darkening, or the horizon lighting changing.
- Bring a sturdy tripod, extra batteries, and memory cards.
- If you’re photographing the sun’s corona during totality, prepare with correct attachments and filters.
Arrive with time to scout your spot in daylight beforehand — know your foreground
Travel idea for the 2026 solar eclipse in Iceland
Day 1 – Reykjavík & Reykjanes Peninsula
Pick up your car at Geysir Reykjavík. Explore the capital, the Blue Lagoon, and coastal cliffs near Reykjanesviti lighthouse — all in the eclipse’s path. Overnight in Reykjavík or Keflavík.
Day 2 – Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Drive west (2.5 hrs) to Snæfellsnes, known as “Iceland in Miniature.” Visit Kirkjufell mountain, Arnarstapi cliffs, and Snæfellsjökull volcano. Overnight in Stykkishólmur.
Day 3 – Solar Eclipse Day (12 August 2026)
Watch the eclipse from Snæfellsnes or nearby Breiðafjörður Bay — both offer long totality and great scenery. Celebrate afterward with a local seafood dinner.
Day 4 – Borgarfjörður & Hraunfossar Waterfalls
Head inland to lava fields, waterfalls, and hot springs. Try Krauma geothermal baths near Deildartunguhver. Overnight near Borgarnes.
Day 5 – Return to Reykjavík
Drive back south, stop at Þingvellir National Park or the Secret Lagoon before returning your car. Enjoy a final evening in Reykjavík’s restaurants and bars.
Final Thoughts
This is more than just a drive — it’s an experience that combines cosmic wonder with Iceland’s extraordinary scenery. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler, an astronomy enthusiast, or simply looking for something truly special, the 2026 total solar eclipse offers that magical “nature does something extraordinary” moment.
Let Geysir Car Rental be your mobility partner — ensuring you arrive, set up, and witness the blackout of the sun in comfort, at your own pace, and in some of Iceland’s most beautiful landscapes.
Use coupon code SOLAR26 to get an additional discount free extra driver, and a GPS for your adventure!
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