Iceland in May: Weather, Crowds & What to Expect

Southwest & Reykjavík (Golden Circle)

Late May days are long, and the countryside around Reykjavík and the Golden Circle grows green and floral; typical highs reach 7-12°C. Tourist numbers pick up but major crowds haven’t yet arrived, making May a smart shoulder-month visit. Puffin-watching boat trips from the coast begin to run and small farms open seasonal cafés. Expect cool evenings and a windproof jacket for Gullfoss or Þingvellir, where open exposure makes it feel colder.

South Coast & Vatnajökull (Vík, Skaftafell, Jökulsárlón)

Late May brings greener slopes around Vík and a milder feeling with daytime temperatures near 7-11°C; cliffs fill with nesting fulmars and puffins-Londrangar and Dyrhólaey are good bets. Melting snow feeds rivers and makes some off-road paths muddy, but most main roads are open. Tourist services ramp up, boat zodiac tours on Jökulsárlón usually begin, and evenings are pleasantly light-pack mid-layers and something to protect against wind-driven spray.

East Fjords & Southeast (Egilsstaðir, Höfn)

Late May in the East Fjords is a pleasant shoulder-season: days are long, wildflowers appear on slopes, and ferry or boat services for coastal sightseeing increase. Temperatures are mild-often 8-12°C-and hiking near Seyðisfjörður and the smaller fjords is comfortable. Tourist numbers remain modest compared with the south and west; pack layers for cool mornings and a waterproof jacket for sudden coastal showers.

North Iceland (Akureyri, Mývatn, Húsavík)

Late May delivers long, bright days and mild conditions-typically 6-12°C-perfect for exploring Akureyri’s botanical garden and driving north to whale-watching ports in Húsavík. Boat tours from Húsavík and gentle sea conditions return, offering reliable whale sightings through summer. The landscape is green and waterfalls are strong from spring melt; pack light layers, a windproof jacket, and binoculars for seabird watching.

Westfjords & Northwest (Ísafjörður, Dynjandi, Hornstrandir)

Late May is when the Westfjords really wake up: puffins return to cliffs such as Látrabjarg, boat trips resume, and roads clear enough for scenic drives between fjords. Daytime temperatures are usually 6-11°C-cool, often windy, but great for birdwatching and remote hikes. Facilities in Ísafjörður and community museums reopen; bring binoculars, a windproof coat, and patience on slower rural services.

Central Highlands & Interior (Landmannalaugar, Kjölur, Kerlingarfjöll)

Late May is when highland roads start to open gradually and unpredictably-Kjölur and parts of the F-roads may clear in drier years but can close again with a cold spell. Landmannalaugar’s huts begin to receive visitors and multiday trekking becomes a real option late in the month if the season has been mild. Bring sturdy hiking boots, a waterproof map, and expect river crossings that require care.