Exploring Iceland by Car: Your Ultimate Self-Drive Guide
Exploring Iceland by car is one of the best ways to experience the country’s incredible landscapes.
Self-drive tours offer the ultimate freedom, but it’s essential to be well-prepared, especially when it comes to road and weather conditions. Below is a guide to help ensure your trip is safe and enjoyable, with tips on reliable resources and websites that can provide up-to-date information during your journey.
Roads in Iceland
Iceland has three main types of roads: paved, gravel, and F-roads.
- Ring Road (Route 1): This 1,322-kilometer highway circles Iceland and is fully paved. It’s the most popular route for tourists and is open year-round, though winter weather can sometimes cause temporary closures.
- Gravel Roads: These roads are common outside of urban areas. You can drive on gravel roads with a standard vehicle, but be cautious when transitioning from paved to gravel surfaces by reducing your speed to maintain control of the car.
- F-Roads (Mountain Roads): These roads lead to Iceland’s rugged interior highlands and are only open during the summer months. A 4×4 vehicle is required to navigate the rough terrain and cross rivers.
“Roads in Iceland”
Weather in Iceland
Icelandic weather is notoriously unpredictable. Checking the weather forecast regularly on vedur.is or wet.is should be part of your travel routine. Watch out for strong winds, heavy snowfall, and storm warnings, particularly in winter.
Tip: During winter, a four-wheel-drive vehicle is highly recommended for added safety on Iceland’s challenging roads.
Sheep on the Roads
From spring through summer, sheep roam freely around the countryside. If you spot them near or on the road, reduce your speed and proceed with caution—they can behave unpredictably when cars approach.
Safe Driving Resources
Visit safetravel.is, Iceland’s top resource for current road and travel conditions, including closures, wind speeds, and traffic updates. They also provide a free SMS service to alert travelers of any important updates.
Safetravel offers a wealth of information on safe driving practices in Iceland, from road signs and speed limits to video tutorials on driving in the highlands.
Rest Before You Go
If you’ve just arrived after a long flight, it’s crucial to be well-rested before starting your road trip. Fatigue behind the wheel is dangerous, so consider taking advantage of “Nap & Go” rates at hotels near Keflavik Airport, where you can rest and recharge before beginning your adventure.
“Take a break and recharge before your adventure”
Car Rentals in Iceland
Iceland offers a wide variety of rental options, from compact cars to 4×4 vehicles and camper vans. For general travel, a regular car will suffice, but for highland roads and rough terrain, you’ll need a 4×4 or larger vehicle. Many rental companies offer airport pickup, and it’s essential to verify the type of vehicle needed for your specific destinations.
Gas Stations and Electric Charging Stations
Iceland has automated self-service gas stations in all towns and along major highways. Since they’re not always close together, make sure you have enough fuel for your journey, and remember that most stations accept only debit or credit cards with a PIN, not cash.
Traveling with an electric or hybrid car?
No problem! Iceland has numerous charging stations across the country. Use this interactive map to plan your stops in advance.
By following these guidelines and staying informed aboutroad and weather conditions, you can safely enjoy the beautyof Iceland at your own pace.