Month spring
Iceland in May
Iceland in May
May is when Iceland blooms — long days, milder weather, puffins returning, and the start of the boat-tour season at Jökulsárlón.
Key facts
- Avg high
- 10°C
- Avg low
- 3°C
- Daylight
- 17–20 h
- Season
- spring
May is the value pick of the year — long daylight, blossoming nature, and pre-summer prices.
Book early
- Whale watching tours
What to pack
- Layered system
- Light waterproof
- Sunglasses (snow glare possible)
Things to avoid
- Highlands (closed)
- Expecting aurora (too bright)
Frequently asked questions
Are puffins in Iceland in May?
Yes — they typically return to colonies (Dyrhólaey, Vestmannaeyjar, Borgarfjörður eystri) in late April / early May and stay through August.
Are the Highlands open in May?
No. F-roads typically open mid-to-late June at the earliest.