Iceland's total solar eclipse on 12 August 2026: What drivers need to know
Heavy traffic and major delays are expected across western Iceland. Traffic management begins at 08:00, with one-way roads, closures and restricted access around several popular viewing areas.
- Streets in parts of Reykjavík and Seltjarnarnes will close from 15:00 to 20:00.
Check the weather and road conditions early in the morning, choose your viewing location before setting out and aim to arrive by 14:00. Park only in designated areas, never stop on road shoulders and do not attempt to chase clear skies shortly before totality.
If you are staying in Reykjavík, walking, cycling or taking a bus may be easier than driving. After the eclipse, remain at your viewing location for an hour or two to allow congestion to clear.
Iceland’s total solar eclipse: key information
- Recommended arrival: By 14:00, several hours before totality
- Traffic restrictions: Begin at 08:00 on selected roads
- Capital-area closures: From 15:00 to 20:00
- Important: Grótta will not be accessible on eclipse day
- Road conditions: Check vedur.is and road.is before travelling
When is the total solar eclipse in Iceland?
Iceland’s total solar eclipse takes place on Wednesday, 12 August 2026. The partial phase begins at approximately 16:42, while totality crosses western Iceland between 17:44 and 17:49. Reykjavík will experience about 66 seconds of totality, while locations in Snæfellsnes and the Westfjords may get around two minutes.
- Date: Wednesday, 12 August 2026
- Partial eclipse: Approximately 16:42–18:48
- Totality: Approximately 17:44–17:49, depending on location
Where is the best place to see the eclipse?
You must be inside the path of totality to see the Sun’s corona and experience complete darkness. The path covers Reykjavík, Reykjanes, West Iceland and the Westfjords.
- Reykjavík: Totality from 17:48:12 to 17:49:18—about 66 seconds
- Longest totality: Around 2 minutes 13 seconds at Látrabjarg
- Best viewing regions: Reykjavík, Reykjanes, West Iceland, Snæfellsnes and the Westfjords
- Where to look: West-southwest, with the Sun approximately 25° above the horizon
Official gathering sites include:
- Akranes
- Borgarnes
- Stykkishólmur
- Grundarfjörður
- Ólafsvík
- Rif
- Hellissandur
Choose an open location with a clear horizon towards the west-southwest. A coastal area or headland is generally better than a valley or a location with hills, buildings or trees to the west.
What should travellers bring?
Bring certified eclipse glasses, warm waterproof clothing, food, water, offline maps, a power bank and any necessary medication. Fill your fuel tank or charge your vehicle the day before, as rural fuel stations and chargers are likely to be busy.
Never drive during totality. Eclipse glasses must be worn throughout the partial phases and removed only while the Sun is completely covered. Put them back on as soon as the first bright part of the Sun reappears.
Read our complete guide to the 2026 total solar eclipse in Iceland for detailed viewing locations, local eclipse times, weather guidance, road closures and essential driving advice.
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