Yu Fan Travel


   冰岛简介 - 气候

thanks to the gulf stream, iceland is not as cold as it sounds. temperatures are moderate year-round. average july temperatures are around 11°c in reykjavík - the north and east are often the warmest parts in the summer. snow is not the norm and only settles intermittently in reykjavík but tends to stay longer in the north. fine winter skiing areas are found on higher ground outside many towns, however. average january temperatures in reykjavík, at around zero, are actually higher than those in new york or many places in europe.

the summer tourist season is from late may to early september. during the first half of this period the sun stays above the horizon for almost 24 hours and the interplay of light and shadows on mountains, lava fields and glaciers yield an ever changing landscape. however, even during the middle of summer the sky is frequently cloudy or overcast and the sunshine does not warm the air much. hence, during daytime, the air is usually cool ("refreshing" is the local euphemism) and cold during nighttime.

the winter season is the abode of long nights, and severe winter storms. however, the silence of the frozen expanse and the dance of the aurora borealis on a clear night sky draws an increasing number of tourists.

during summertime tourists should bring a windbreaker, rainwear, a thick pullover (wool or fleece) and sturdy walking shoes. travelers who are camping or heading into the interior will need warm underwear and socks, rubber boots and a warm sleeping bag. during wintertime tourist should bring warm clothing, warm coat, mittens etc. iceland has many swimming pools, usually with geothermally heated water. hence, in either season a visitor should bring a swim suit.

view the current weather forecast for iceland (opens in new window) 

iceland from space in winter
gullfoss waterfall - rainbow
rekyjavik harbour
glacier