Driving in Iceland in July: All You Need to Know

What Makes July an Interesting Month To Visit Iceland?

July in Iceland means warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours - a perfect time to drive around the country and check out the sites and landmarks.

Since it's summer, many visitors will flock to the country during this time. That's why planning your Iceland road trip way ahead is crucial. July is the peak tourist season in Iceland. That's why booking your accommodations way ahead of time is advisable. Do this to ensure you have a place to stay and to avoid last-minute mishaps.

• Read more: The Ultimate Guide to Iceland in Summer

Weather in Iceland in July

July is the month that Iceland welcomes visitors with a mix of chilly winds and bursts of warmth. Here is some information you need to know about Iceland's weather in July.

Temperature: Iceland experiences the warmest temperatures during this time of the year. The average warmest temperature in July is around 50°F to 59°F (10°C to 15°C). Because of the pleasant warmth in the air, you can find many people enjoying the outdoors. However, the temperature can drop to a cold 41°F (5°C), so you still need to bring some layers each time you're out.

• Precipitation: Chances of rainfall in Iceland during July are relatively low compared to other months. You can still experience some light and quick rain showers here and there. However, these rains are rare enough, so you can still explore Icelandic landscapes without fearing getting too wet.
• Daylight Hours: July is the month of the midnight sun in Iceland. This means that with daylight stretching up to 20 hours or more, visitors have more time to do activities, such as long hikes and excursions.
• Wind: Wind is always around in Iceland, no matter the month, and July is no exception. The wind during this month can vary in intensity, so bringing windproof layers is a must to shield against wind gusts, especially when you venture to Iceland's beautiful countryside.

Please note that Iceland's unpredictable weather in July can significantly impact road conditions and closures. For this, check for any road closures or construction projects. Regularly check the Icelandic weather forecast and the local road conditions, especially if you're going to remote areas. Google Maps can be a good guide for road closures and construction updates, although it is not 100% reliable.

• See also: Iceland's Weather, Climate and Temperature Year-Round

Tips For Renting a Vehicle In Iceland In July

Remembering these four key factors when renting a vehicle in Iceland is essential.

First, Icelandic roads can pose some challenges. Roads can be rugged at times, with gravel tracks and challenging terrains. For this, it's best to rent a four-wheel-drive (4WD) vehicle so that you can navigate the roads in these conditions safely. Your best bet is a sports utility vehicle (SUV) or a jeep.

Second, July is the peak tourist season in Iceland. This only means high demand for car rentals. When you book right before your planned trip, you might not be able to get the one you want or need. That's why it's crucial to book in advance to ensure the availability of the vehicle of your choice. At times, booking pre-peak season can result in better deals.

Third, remember to check and understand some insurance options. Most insurance covers collision damage, but given that Iceland has a lot of rugged and gravel terrains, gravel protection and sand and ash damage may be necessary for added coverage.

Last, safety is always a top priority when traveling anywhere. Bring a first aid kit, flashlight, extra batteries, non-perishable snacks, water, and blankets. These items can be highly invaluable in case of emergencies. If you're planning to get a car rental service, ask them if they include these kits in their car.

Activities To Do in Iceland in July    

Due to the mild temperatures and extended daylight hours, Iceland offers more sites to see and activities to experience during summer. Here are some of the best sites and activities to consider when driving in Iceland in July

Midnight Sun

This is nothing new for Iceland natives. But for travelers from other places, this is an out-of-this-world phenomenon. The midnight sun is when the sun barely sets down the horizon, creating a graceful glow in the sky all night. You can experience this celestial event the best in July when the days are the longest. For experiences tailored around this phenomenon, see our selection of midnight sun tours.

Hiking

During July, you can explore more of Iceland's landscapes, as it is the perfect weather for hiking. You might want to consider visiting national parks such as Vatnajokull National Park and Thorsmork. If you want to hike with the guidance of a local expert, there are many hiking and trekking tours available.

Whale Watching

Hop on a boat tour and spot various whale species like humpback whales, minke whales, and even orcas. You can find whale-watching tours mostly in places like Reykjavik and Husavik. The Reykjavik Whale Watching Tour is a good way to get acquainted with the gentle giants if you're staying in the capital. 

Glacier Exploring

Because the weather is not too cold, July is the perfect time to explore glaciers in Iceland, such as the Vatnajokull and Langjokull. For this, you can join guided glacier hikes and ice cave tours for an unforgettable adventure.

Festivals

July in Iceland means many festivals, blending art, music, and culture. Some of these festivals include the LungA Arts Festival in Seydisfjordur, the Eistnaflug Metal Festival in Neskaupstadur, and heritage celebrations like French Days in Faskrudsfjordur and Irish Days in Akranes.

Environmental Responsibility

Icelanders are immensely protective of their land, so environmental responsibility is crucial for a road trip in Iceland. Visitors must adhere to the Leave No Trace principles to reduce environmental impact. Proper waste disposal should be followed, even in remote areas.

In addition, take extra care when you visit fragile ecosystems and wildlife habitats. Stay on designated paths to avoid damaging plants and habitats, and keep a safe distance from wildlife to avoid disturbing them.

While driving in Iceland in July, remember to do your trip responsibly. By ensuring your overall safety, planning proactively, and respecting local customs and environment, you will enjoy this one-of-a-kind experience and contribute to preserving Iceland's beauty for more generations to come. Happy travels!

We hope that covered everything you want to know about driving in Iceland in July. Are you going to be driving in Iceland in July? Where are you planning to go? Be sure to let us know in the comment section below!