A total solar eclipse crosses Iceland on Wednesday 12 August 2026. The event affects travel across Snaefellsnes, including road access, parking, and viewing arrangements.

Snaefellsnes is inside the path of totality

The path of totality crosses the Westfjords, Snaefellsnes, West Iceland, the Greater Reykjavik Area, and the Reykjanes peninsula. In the rest of Iceland, the eclipse is partial rather than total.

Certified solar eclipse glasses meeting the ISO 12312-2 standard are needed during the partial phases.

The roads to the western tip are closed or one-way

Ondverdarnesvegur, at the western tip of Snaefellsnes, is closed to general traffic on eclipse day. Eysteinsleid is also closed on eclipse day.

Utnesvegur and Jokulshals operate as one-way roads on eclipse day. Check vegagerdin.is for current timing and road conditions.

Where the shuttle replaces your car

Shuttle buses are provided for Ondverdarnesvegur because general traffic is closed there on eclipse day. The shuttle arrangement applies to access at the western tip.

Parking rules and reduced speed limits

Parking on the roadway or on road shoulders is strictly prohibited. Illegally parked vehicles will be removed at the owner's expense.

Speed limits are likely to be reduced on eclipse day. The stated objective of the traffic measures is to keep access clear for emergency services.

Designated viewing areas and the case for staying local

Vegagerdin points to an interactive map showing road closures and the main designated gathering areas. It also publishes the current list of road closures and gathering areas, so check vegagerdin.is for the latest information.

Designated viewing areas have been set up in urban locations, with access to restrooms, parking, and on-site assistance. People are encouraged to use these areas rather than remote sites.

Authorities recommend watching from home or the local area when inside the path of totality. In most parts of western Iceland, it is possible to experience the eclipse from home or nearby surroundings.

Travellers are advised to arrive early, stay longer, and delay departure until after the eclipse to reduce congestion.

Freight and other traffic on the peninsula

Freight operators are encouraged to postpone transport or travel outside peak hours on eclipse day. Travellers are asked to be patient, allow extra time for travel, and follow the instructions of the authorities.

Comparing Snaefellsnes tours

Compare Snaefellsnes tours at Snaefellsnes tours.

Working out the drive

Check the driving time between two places in Iceland with the driving distance tool.

Snaefellsnes in the wider plan

The peninsula is one of the regions inside the path described in the 2026 solar eclipse guide. The other served regions have their own guides: the Westfjords, Reykjavik and Reykjanes.

Before driving out, read driving on eclipse day, and compare the departures on the eclipse tour comparison page.