A Full Guide About the Weather in Iceland in March

Overview of the Weather in Iceland in March

In March, Iceland’s weather varies depending on where you are. The southwest, around Reykjavík, tends to be wetter and milder, while the north and east remain colder with more snow. The Highlands and Westfjords can be harsher, with snow often blocking roads. Rain might turn to snow in an instant, and wind is a frequent companion, especially in the south, making it feel chillier than it is. Since the weather shifts fast, keeping an eye on the forecast is key.

Iceland’s weather changes quickly, but renting a camper ensures you're always prepared and comfortable. With your rental, you can stop to watch whales near Húsavík or explore small villages along quiet roads like Route 85, sleeping wherever feels right.

Temperature in Iceland in March

Temperatures in March typically range from -3°C to 4°C (27°F to 39°F). In Reykjavík and the southwest, it’s slightly warmer, averaging 1.7°C to 3.3°C (35°F to 38°F), while the north, near Akureyri, hovers closer to 0°C (32°F) or dips below at night. Wind can make it feel sharper, particularly in open areas or along the coast. Wearing layers and something windproof will keep you comfortable as you move around.

Does it Rain & Snow in Iceland in March?

March brings plenty of wet weather, whether it’s rain, snow, or a mix of both, depending on your location. In the southwest, like Reykjavík, rain is more common, especially later in the month, while the north and east see more snow, with heavier falls possible early on. You can expect precipitation on 10 to 19 days. Reykjavík gets around 96.8 mm (3.8 inches), the south coast sees more at 113.8 mm (4.4 inches), and the north is drier with about 46.5 mm (1.8 inches), mostly as snow. Waterproof gear is essential for camping in these conditions.

Daylight Hours in Iceland in March

Daylight increases noticeably in March. At the start, you’ll have about 10 hours of light in Reykjavík, stretching to over 13 hours by the end. That extra time makes driving and exploring easier. Actual sunshine is limited, though—only about 3 to 4 hours a day—since clouds often dominate the sky. Don’t expect clear weather all the time or you’ll be disappointed.

Weather in March by Region

The weather across Iceland’s regions has its own patterns, so here’s what to expect as you plan your camper route.

Southwest (Reykjavík)

The southwest, including Reykjavík, is milder than most of Iceland, with temperatures averaging 1.7°C to 3.3°C (35°F to 38°F). Daytime highs might reach 5°C (41°F) by late March. Rain is more common than snow, with about 96.8 mm (3.8 inches) falling over the month, and snow becomes rare as temperatures rise above freezing later on. Wind is a big factor here, often gusting at 20-30 m/s (45-67 mph) along the coast, turning a mild day cold quickly. Main roads like Route 1 stay open, but driving a camper can get tricky over bridges or open plains. Spots by the coast near Reykjavík, like Grótta lighthouse, might still be hard to walk due to squalls.

South Coast (Vík)

Around Vík on the south coast, temperatures range from 1°C to 4°C (33.8°F to 39.2°F), similar to the southwest but feeling colder due to strong winds and wetter weather. Precipitation is heavier here, totaling about 113.8 mm (4.4 inches). Early March might bring wet snow, shifting to rain later. Storms can drop quickly, and wind near cliffs and beaches like Reynisfjara often exceeds 25 m/s (56 mph), causing big waves to appear. The dramatic weather makes the south coast striking but challenging. Black sand beaches can flood during storms, and wind might whip sand around, so waterproof gear is a must.

North (Akureyri)

In the north, around Akureyri, during the day temperatures hover near 0°C (32°F), with nights dropping to -2.6°C (27.3°F) or lower, and frost is common. Precipitation averages 46.5 mm (1.8 inches), mainly as snow, with heavy falls possible early in March, especially in mountain passes. The moderate wind cuts deeper with snow, though it’s less intense than on the south coast. Snow sticks around, making places like Mývatn Lake look stunning, but roads like Route 1 north of Akureyri can get icy. Blizzards might close smaller routes, so checking vedur.is or road.is daily is a good habit.

East and Westfjords

The east and Westfjords often stay below freezing, particularly inland, with daytime highs rarely above 2°C (35.6°F) and nights as low as -5°C (23°F). Snow is heavy, with totals often exceeding 100 mm (3.9 inches) in water equivalent, and snowstorms can be intense. Wind blows hard through the Westfjords’ fjords and along the east’s coastlines, making the cold bite more. Roads to places like Ísafjörður or Seyðisfjörður might close for days, and avalanches are a risk in steep areas. Stick to main routes unless you’re with a guide who knows the land.

Highlands

The highlands are bitterly cold, with temperatures from -5°C to -10°C (23°F to 14°F), and windchill makes it feel worse. Snow piles deep, with storms adding meters over the month, and wind has little to stop it. Most travelers avoid the highlands in March since F-roads are closed, and even expert drivers steer clear. Snowmobiles or guided super-jeep tours are the only options, but they’re not for casual campers.

March 2024 Overview

Looking back at March 2024, the southwest was milder and drier than usual, with Reykjavík averaging 1.7°C (35.1°F) and only 51.3 mm (2 inches) of precipitation, plus more sunshine than expected. The north and east were colder and snowier, with late-month snowfalls blocking some roads amid strong winds.

For March 2025, you might see a similar split—milder southwest, snowier north—so watch the forecast as your trip approaches.

What to Pack

Camping in Iceland in March calls for smart packing. Here’s what to bring for your camper:

• Warm layers: Start with thermals next to your skin, add fleece or wool, and top it with a windproof, waterproof jacket.
• Waterproof pants: These keep you dry in rain or snow.
• Solid boots: Choose waterproof ones with good traction for icy or snowy ground.
• Hat, gloves, scarf: They shield you from cold and wind.
• Cold-rated sleeping bag: Nights can drop low, especially in the north.
• Waterproof tent and ground sheet: These ensure your spot stays dry.
• Portable stove and fuel: Useful for cooking at basic campsites.
• Headlamp or flashlight: Nights are still dark, even as days lengthen.

Check the weather before you go and adjust your gear if needed.

Things to Do

Despite the moody weather, March in Iceland offers some incredible experiences. Here are five ideas with details to make your trip memorable.

See the Northern Lights

Early March gives you 10-11 hours of darkness, a decent window for spotting the aurora, though by late March, nights shorten to 8-9 hours. Clear skies and solar activity can still make it happen, though. Dark spots like Þingvellir National Park or the south coast near Vík are good bets. Skip full moon nights. Look at vedur.is for aurora forecasts, aiming for a Kp index of 3 or higher. Clouds can ruin it, so be ready to move with your camper to find clear patches.

Visit Ice Caves

March is a great time for ice caves—still solid but quieter than peak winter. The blue ice glows under daylight that comes through. Book a guided tour from Skaftafell or near Vatnajökull since going alone is risky and not recommended. Wear crampons and bring a camera for the unreal colors. By April, warming makes caves unstable, so March is your last good shot. Tours often toss in glacier walks for extra adventure.

Relax in Hot Springs

After a cold, windy day, sinking into 38°C (100°F) water feels perfect, blending nature with comfort. The Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon near Reykjavík offer a well-rounded experience. If you’re on a budget, hike to Reykjadalur (an hour from Hveragerði) or visit Seljavallalaug, a hidden gem in the south. Hot springs fit camping well—warm up, then cook at your site. You might chat with locals soaking too.

Go on a Glacier Hike

With firm ice and longer days (up to 13 hours by late March), glaciers like Sólheimajökull or Svínafellsjökull are prime for hiking. Join a guided tour from Reykjavík or Vík—guides supply crampons, ice axes, and safety tips. Layer up; you’ll sweat despite the chill. The views of crevasses, ice walls, and volcanic ash streaks are incredible. It’s a workout, but guides make it manageable. It truly is a unique experience.

Explore Reykjavík

When weather turns rough, Reykjavík’s indoor scene is a great plan B. The National Museum dives into Iceland’s Viking roots, while Perlan offers an ice cave exhibit and 360° views. Sample lamb soup at Café Loki or fresh fish at Icelandic Street Food. The Food and Fun Festival in mid March highlights local chefs—try a tasting if possible.

Conclusion

March in Iceland can be cold, wet, and windy, but it’s a rewarding time to visit. The weather jumps around, so preparation is key. Wear layers, bring waterproof gear, and check the forecast often. With some thought, you can catch the Northern Lights, hike glaciers, or unwind in hot springs. Stay adaptable if plans shift with the weather. Enjoy your trip!