FAQ: Iceland Solar Eclipse 2026

When is the eclipse?


August 12, 2026. The partial eclipse begins around 4:47 pm local time. Totality will occur between 5:43 and 5:50 pm depending on where you are.

Where should I be?


Western Iceland, especially the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, the Reykjanes Peninsula, or the Westfjords. Near Breiðafjörður Bay is where totality will last the longest.

How long does it last?


Up to 2 minutes and 18 seconds of totality. The entire event lasts about two hours including partial phases.

What about the weather?


August is one of Iceland’s clearer months, with roughly a 40 percent chance of clear skies.

What makes this eclipse special?


It coincides with the Perseids meteor shower, so you may see both the eclipse and shooting stars.

Is there a festival?


Yes, the Iceland Eclipse Festival runs from August 12–15, 2026, in Hellissandur. Expect music, art, science, and camping.

How often does Iceland get an eclipse like this?


The last total eclipse was in 1954. The next will not occur until 2196.