Akureyri
Akureyri sits just outside the path of totality, but it comes tantalisingly close: on August 12, 2026 the Moon covers 97.9% of the Sun at maximum, peaking at 5:46 PM local time (GMT) with the Sun a comfortable 23° above the horizon. Despite that extraordinary coverage, the Sun is never fully blocked — this is a partial eclipse, not a total one.
When it happens in Akureyri
| Partial begins | 4:45 PM GMT |
| Maximum (97.9% covered) | 5:46 PM GMT |
| Partial ends | 6:44 PM GMT |
All times local (GMT); the Sun is 23° above the horizon at maximum.
What you'll see
With nearly 98% of the Sun covered, the light fades to an eerie, deep twilight and the air will cool noticeably — but the last sliver of Sun remains exposed, keeping the corona hidden and the sky from going truly dark. It is a breathtaking sight through certified eclipse glasses, but to see the corona and true totality you would need to travel south to the path of totality, which crosses Iceland not far from here.
Where to watch from
At 23° above the horizon the Sun clears most obstructions comfortably, so anywhere with a broad open sky to the south-west works well — a park, a lakeshore, or anywhere away from tall buildings.
Protect your eyes
Because Akureyri never reaches totality, it is never safe to look at the Sun here without protection — not even at the 97.9% maximum. Keep certified ISO 12312-2 eclipse glasses on from the moment the partial phase begins around 4:45 PM until it ends around 6:44 PM. There is no naked-eye moment here; ordinary sunglasses are not safe substitutes.
Common questions
Will Akureyri see a total solar eclipse?
No. Akureyri sees a deep partial eclipse — 97.9% coverage at 5:46 PM GMT — but the Sun is never fully covered. The path of totality crosses Iceland to the south, so a drive toward the centreline is your best option for totality.
What time is the eclipse in Akureyri?
The partial phase begins around 4:45 PM, reaches its 97.9% maximum at 5:46 PM, and ends by about 6:44 PM — all in local Iceland time (GMT).
Do I need eclipse glasses in Akureyri?
Yes, for the entire eclipse without exception. Since the Sun is never fully covered from Akureyri, there is no safe naked-eye moment — keep certified ISO 12312-2 eclipse glasses on from start to finish.