Skaftafell Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit

Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Skaftafell.

Climate overview of Skaftafell

The climate in Skaftafell, South Iceland, Iceland, sees a moderate range of temperatures across the year, from 12°C (54°F) in July down to 1°C (34°F) in February.

Rain/snowfall is high, totalling around 2653 mm (104 in) per year. February is the wettest month and June the driest. The city also experiences cold summers and very cold winters. Sunshine peaks in May, when the city sees around 5.5 hours of sunshine per day.

Skaftafell Weather by Month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Skaftafell - and find the best time to visit.

Monthly Temperature in Skaftafell

In Skaftafell, seasonal changes bring about a moderate variation in temperatures. Average maximum daytime temperatures range from a chilly 12°C (54°F) in July, the warmest time of the year, to a very cold 1°C (34°F) during cooler months like February.

At night, you can expect temperatures ranging from 7°C (45°F) in July to around -5°C (23°F) during February.

Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.

Temperature ranges by month

Rainfall in Skaftafell

Skaftafell experiences significant rain/snowfall throughout the year, averaging 2653 mm (104 in) of precipitation annually. While snow/rainfall varies throughout the year, each season offers its own charm. February brings wetter days averaging 294 mm (12 in) of precipitation, spread over 17 snowy/rainy days.

In contrast, the driest month June experiences a drier climate, with about 142 mm (5.6 in) of rainfall spread across 18 rainy days. For more details, please visit our Skaftafell Precipitation page.

The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow

Sunshine Hours in Skaftafell

Seasonal changes in sunshine hours are quite dramatic in Skaftafell. While May receives considerable daily sunshine with up to 5.5 hours, December marks the darkest time of the year, where sunshine is scarce with only 0.6 hours of sunlight per day.

Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.

Monthly hours of sunshine

Data from: Kirkjubæjarklaustur, Iceland (58 KM, 36 Miles).

Daily hours of sunshine

Data from: Kirkjubæjarklaustur, Iceland (58 KM, 36 Miles).

Humidity in Skaftafell by Month

Best Time to Visit Skaftafell

Weather conditions in Skaftafell vary little from month to month, so there is no clear best period based on weather alone.

Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.

  • Warmest weather: July and August
  • Most sunshine: May
  • Seasonal pattern: Cold summers and very cold winters
  • Coldest conditions: February, with freezing nights around -5°C (23°F).

Frequently asked questions about the climate in Skaftafell

What is the best time to visit Skaftafell?

Skaftafell has cold summers and very cold winters.

What temperatures can I expect in Skaftafell?

Daytime highs range from 1°C (34°F) in February to 12°C (54°F) in July. Nighttime lows range from -5°C (23°F) to 7°C (45°F).

How much rain does Skaftafell get?

Annual rainfall is around 2653 mm (104 in). February is the wettest month with 294 mm (12 in), while June is the driest with 142 mm (5.6 in). In the coldest months, precipitation may fall as snow/rain.

How sunny is Skaftafell?

Skaftafell receives around 1,197 hours of sunshine per year. May is the sunniest month with 164 hours, while December is the cloudiest with just 18 hours.

Skaftafell 3-Day Forecast

Skaftafell on the map

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