Mark Your Calendars: A Total Solar Eclipse Over Iceland on August 12, 2026
For the first time since 1954, Iceland will witness a total solar eclipse on August 12, 2026. For just one mesmerizing minute, the western region of the country—including Reykjavík, the Westfjords, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and the Reykjanes Peninsula—will be cloaked in darkness as the moon shadows the sun. As temperatures dip and the sky dims to an almost twilight-like hue, the sun will transform into a radiant ring encircled by the moon.
If fortune smiles upon us, stars may even pierce the daylight, creating a moment of sublime beauty that transcends time itself. With its expansive skies and minimal light pollution, Iceland is poised to offer a front-row seat to this stunning natural event.
At Hidden Iceland, we specialize in crafting luxury private tours across the country. Many travelers are already securing their spots for itineraries that beautifully combine Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes and unique experiences with this extraordinary solar eclipse. Here’s how you can make the most of both the eclipse and the enchanting Icelandic scenery.
The Best Viewing Locations
While you can catch the eclipse from various points in Western Iceland, accommodations are filling up quickly. We recommend establishing your base in Reykjavík, the cosmopolitan heart of the country.
The capital not only offers excellent visibility but also boasts effortless travel connections and a selection of some of Iceland’s most sophisticated hotels, with several high-end options still available for the eclipse dates. Staying in Reykjavík means you’ll have ample opportunities to outsmart the clouds, and our team will be on hand to guide you—whether through personalized tours or self-drive recommendations.
We partner with many of the city’s finest establishments, including the luxurious EDITION and the charming boutique Parliament Hotel. Our bespoke itineraries ensure you receive accommodations tailored to your desires, blending comfort with the excitement of this once-in-a-lifetime event.
The Rarity of This Eclipse
Total solar eclipses may occur somewhere on Earth roughly every eighteen months, but they rarely visit the same location twice. The last total eclipse seen from Reykjavík happened on June 17, 1433—over 600 years ago!
This celestial event serves as a poignant reminder of our place in the solar system, melding scientific wonder with awe-inspiring beauty. It’s a fitting tribute to Iceland’s own grand scale, offering an experience that is not just visual but profoundly profound. With Hidden Iceland’s meticulous planning, you’re set for an unforgettable adventure.
Planning the Perfect Trip
Many travelers flock to Reykjavík and the south coast during the warmer summer months, whether through guided tours or meticulously planned self-drive journeys. For those arriving around August 12, we can seamlessly incorporate the solar eclipse into a tailor-made itinerary filled with Iceland’s exceptional attractions, such as the nearby Golden Circle.
Our luxury tours highlight all that makes Iceland extraordinary. One particularly unforgettable option involves witnessing the eclipse from a geothermal spa. Several of Iceland’s top spas will transform into extraordinary viewing spots as you enjoy comfort and warmth while taking in expansive horizons during the eclipse.
We can expertly time your visit to the Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon, both ideally situated for excellent views of the eclipse as it moves across the sky. Picture yourself soaking in naturally heated waters as day turns to night; the Blue Lagoon provides stunning vistas over lava fields, while Sky Lagoon’s infinity edge offers a spectacular backdrop. It’s simply one of the best ways to relish Iceland during this remarkable event.
Duration and Future Eclipses
The total eclipse itself lasts about one minute, transitioning the sky into temporary darkness, but the partial eclipse will persist for around two hours, casting an ethereal glow over the landscape.
If you’re wondering when another eclipse might grace Iceland, the answer is quite a while. The next total solar eclipse visible from this region is projected for 2196, making this an unparalleled opportunity you won’t want to miss.
What If You Can’t Make It?
While the total eclipse may only last minutes, the captivating beauty of Iceland remains long after normalcy returns to the sky. Even if your trip doesn’t coincide with the eclipse, the country is ablaze with awe-inspiring experiences year-round. Reykjavík serves as an irresistible launchpad, replete with innovative dining, vibrant culture, and top-tier museums. Yet, the true enchantment unfolds as you venture beyond the city.
From glacier hikes and volcano views to horseback riding along black-sand beaches, relaxing in hidden hot springs, exploring remote highlands, or sailing among icebergs on the south coast, Iceland is brimming with adventures waiting to be discovered.
Let’s Begin Crafting Your Dream Experience
Whether you choose to join us for the solar eclipse or explore Iceland at another time, our team is here to help you create an experience of a lifetime. Reach out to us today at +354-770-5733 or email info@hiddeniceland.is to start planning your luxury adventure.