How to enjoy summer solstice in Iceland
How to enjoy Summer Solstice in Iceland
Iceland is truly unique during the summer months. Daylight extends into the early hours, creating an ethereal atmosphere that captivates both locals and visitors. This natural phenomenon reaches its zenith during the summer solstice, around June 21st, when the sun barely dips below the horizon, resulting in nearly 24 hours of daylight.
Understanding the Midnight Sun
The midnight sun occurs due to Iceland's position just south of the Arctic Circle. From mid-May to mid-July, the tilt of the Earth's axis allows for continuous daylight, with the sun lingering low in the sky during the night, casting a mesmerizing glow over the landscape. This period offers unparalleled opportunities to explore Iceland's natural wonders under the soft, golden hues of extended twilight.
Unique Activities Under the Midnight Sun
The extended daylight opens up a plethora of activities that are either enhanced or uniquely possible during this period:
- Midnight Sun Run: In Reykjavík, the Midnight Sun Run offers participants the chance to run a race in the middle of the night under full daylight. With options of 5 km, 10 km, or half-marathon distances, this event combines physical activity with the unique experience of nighttime sun.
- Arctic Open Golf Tournament: Golf enthusiasts can participate in the Arctic Open, an international golf tournament held in Akureyri. Played under the midnight sun, this event provides a rare opportunity to enjoy the sport in near-continuous daylight.
- Sleipnir Tours' Summer Solstice Glacier Experience
For an unforgettable adventure, consider joining our signature special Summer Solstice Tour to Langjökull Glacier. Departing at 7:30 PM from Gullfoss on June 21st, this tour offers a unique opportunity to experience the midnight sun atop Europe's second-largest glacier.
Guests will embark on a journey aboard one of the world's largest glacier trucks, designed for comfort and panoramic viewing. The tour includes a stop at a scenic spot on the glacier, where participants can enjoy a pop-up café serving hot cocoa, coffee, tea, and traditional Icelandic pastries known as "kleinur."
Knowledgeable local guides provide insights into the glacier's formation, the surrounding highlands, and Nordic mythology.
For those seeking a bit of adventure, optional activities such as sledding down the glacier's slopes or playing a round of glacier golf are available, weather permitting.
This tour not only offers breathtaking views and unique activities but also a chance to create lasting memories under the midnight sun.
For more details and booking information, check out our tour page here.
Tips for Enjoying the Midnight Sun
- Adjust Your Sleep Schedule: The continuous daylight can be disorienting. Consider using sleep masks to ensure restful sleep and plan your activities to take advantage of the extended daylight.
- Capture the Moments: The unique lighting conditions provide excellent opportunities for photography. Whether it's the golden hues of the sun hovering near the horizon or the vibrant colors of the landscape, keep your camera ready to capture the magic.
- Embrace the Energy: The prolonged daylight often brings a surge of energy. Use this time to explore more of Iceland's natural beauty, from hiking trails to geothermal sites, making the most of the endless days.

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