When planning a trip to Iceland, timing is everything. While summer brings endless daylight and winter offers snowy adventures, the weather in Iceland in September makes it one of the best months to visit especially if you’re traveling by campervan.
Here are five reasons why Iceland in September 2025 is the perfect time for your campervan adventure, plus tips on where to go, what to hike, and how to make the most of your journey.
1. Weather in Iceland in September 2025 is Perfect for Road Trips
Unlike the freezing winter or the crowded summer, September offers mild and manageable weather.
- Daytime temperatures: 8°C to 13°C (46°F to 55°F)
- Nighttime temperatures: Around 5°C (41°F)
- Daylight hours: About 13–14 hours in early September, dropping to 11 hours by the end of the month
Campervan tip: Even if the weather in Iceland in September is milder, nights can get chilly. Make sure your campervan has heating or bring an insulated sleeping bag for comfort.
2. See the Northern Lights in Iceland
September marks the start of the Aurora Borealis season. Thanks to longer nights and clearer skies, your chances of spotting the Northern Lights increase dramatically.
Best campervan-friendly spots for Northern Lights viewing:
- Þingvellir National Park (Golden Circle) – only 45 minutes from Reykjavik
- Vik Campsite (South Coast) – close to Reynisfjara black sand beach
- Ásbyrgi Canyon (North Iceland) – remote location with dramatic cliffs
- Hofsós Campground (North Iceland) – peaceful spot overlooking the sea
Pro tip: Download the “Aurora Forecast” app or check the Icelandic Meteorological Office’s website for daily aurora updates.
3. Fewer Crowds and Lower Costs
By September, the summer rush has ended. Attractions like Gullfoss waterfall, Skógafoss, and the Blue Lagoon are quieter, giving you a more relaxed experience.
Travel benefits of September include:
- Lower campervan rental and hotel costs
- Easier campsite availability
- Less traffic on the Ring Road
Driving is also smoother compared to winter, roads are safer, and the highland routes usually remain open until mid-September.
4. Autumn Colors and Scenic Hikes
The weather in Iceland in September makes hiking and photography spectacular. Mossy lava fields, birch forests, and hillsides turn golden red, while glaciers and waterfalls remain powerful.
Top hikes for September campervan travelers:
- Glymur Waterfall (West Iceland): A 3–4 hour hike to Iceland’s second-highest waterfall
- Svartifoss in Skaftafell (South Coast): Surrounded by basalt columns
- Ásbyrgi Canyon (North): Gentle trails through forests and dramatic cliffs
- Reykjadalur Hot Spring Hike (near Hveragerði): A geothermal river you can bathe in after a 1-hour hike
Pro tip: September can be rainy, so waterproof hiking boots and a rain jacket are a must.
5. Festivals, Culture, and Hot Springs in September 2025
September isn’t just about landscapes, it’s also a month full of cultural experiences.
- Reykjavik International Film Festival (RIFF): Late September, showcasing global cinema.
- Harvest season food festivals: Fresh lamb, root vegetables, and seafood appear on menus.
- Hot spring soaking: The cooler evenings make geothermal pools irresistible. Don’t miss:
- Blue Lagoon (near Reykjavik)
- Secret Lagoon (Flúðir, Golden Circle)
- Mývatn Nature Baths (North Iceland)
- Reykjadalur hot river (South)
Final Thoughts: Why September 2025 is Perfect for a Campervan Trip
The weather in Iceland in September 2025 strikes the perfect balance: mild enough for road trips, dark enough for Northern Lights, and colorful enough to make every stop a postcard. If Iceland is on your bucket list, make September 2025 the year you finally go and rent your campervan on Campstar.com.