Summer is the peak period of travel for most destinations, and in the case of Iceland, it’s no different. Although every season in the Nordic country has something to offer, traveling in summer has a variety of advantages. Keep reading to find out why Iceland is the perfect summer destination.

The Weather Is Mild (And Perfect For Being Active)

The most obvious benefit of visiting Iceland in summer is that the warm, mild weather means that you’ll have the chance to be more active. There are endless things to do in Iceland and many of them are natural, rural attractions that are located outdoors. It’s true that certain sights in Iceland are more beautiful when they’re draped in snow and ice, but the warm weather makes it possible to see more points of interest. Summer in Iceland is not too hot for sightseeing. The warmest days can reach about 77 degrees, which is a perfect temperature for an action-packed day full of traveling. You definitely won’t have the problem of wilting in the heat the way you would in other destinations during summer. RELATED: A Travel Guide to Iceland: 10 Things To Know While Planning Your Trip

There’s Plenty Of Time For Sightseeing

There are countless sights to see in Iceland and the warmer weather will make it possible to see most of them. Attractions and natural landmarks that are sometimes closed off in the winter will be opened in the summer and travelers will feel more energetic due to the mild weather. But summer also brings more time for sightseeing. Literally, the days are longer in summer than they are in winter. From mid-May to mid-August, the sun in Iceland only sets for three hours per day. That means that you have much more time to fit in all the things that you want to see in the daylight. Of course, the increased daylight hours doesn’t negate a traveler’s need to sleep, but it does allow you to be more flexible and fit more into your schedule. By comparison, midwinter in Iceland brings only five hours of effective daylight in a 24-hor period. So, while winter offers the chance to witness the spectacular Northern Lights, it also dramatically reduces the time you have to enjoy Iceland’s other sights. RELATED: The Top 10 Things To Know Before Visiting Iceland

A Variety Of Creatures Can Be Spotted In Iceland During The Summer Months

Iceland is an ideal destination for spotting wildlife. If you’re a bird enthusiast or an animal lover, visit in summer and you’ll have the chance to observe several fascinating local species. When humans first settled Iceland in the 9th century, the only land animal on the island was the arctic fox. Now, there is a huge number of animals that have adapted to the icy conditions. In summer, there is a high chance of seeing the puffins that nest and fish along the coast of the island. During summer, there will also be several whale-watching tours held in Iceland, as well as an increased chance of seeing wild horses. Other animals can be found in Iceland year-round, including sheep and cattle. The native arctic foxes adopt a dark coat in summer that makes them harder to recognize than their white winter coat. RELATED: 10 Fascinating Things About Iceland You Didn't Know

Iceland In Summer Is Ideal For Camping

A once-in-a-lifetime experience that all visitors to Iceland should consider is camping. This is one of the best countries to camp in thanks to its dramatic and unique scenery. Camp in Iceland and you’ll be surrounded by picturesque vistas that you can explore at your own pace.

Naturally, camping in summer tends to be safer than camping when the weather is colder, due to the hazards stemming from the harsh winter climate. But the range of areas that you can access in winter is also drastically reduced.

When you camp in Iceland during summer, more waterfalls are accessible and there are fewer hiking trails that have been closed off. It’s true that a snow-covered landscape is a magnificent sight, but seeing the fresh green grasses of Iceland in summer is also beautiful.

Only Open In Summer, Iceland’s Many Museums Are Fascinating

Many travelers visit Iceland to absorb the country’s outstanding natural beauty. But there are also plenty of indoor attractions that are worth seeing. The country is home to a selection of fascinating museums that showcase its captivating history, and many of these tend to close throughout the winter. The Árnessysla Heritage Museum, the Bobbie Fischer Center, Petra’s Stone Collection, the Icelandic Wartime Museum, the Technical Museum of East Iceland, the Múlastofa Cultural Center, the Old Farmhouse, the Icelandic Folk and Outsider Art Museum, the Icelandic Aviation Museum, the Herring Era Museum, the Icelandic Emigration Center, and the Museum of Prophecies are just some of the country’s museums that close during the winter months. The exhibits in these museums paint a detailed picture of the history and culture of Iceland and are not to be missed! NEXT: South Africa, Iceland, And 15 Other Places Joey King Vacationed