HIGHWAYS AND ROADS IN ICELAND: DRIVING IN ICELAND

Traveling around Iceland by car is one of the most recommended ways to discover the country, but also one of the things that generates the most doubts among visitors. Renting a car in Iceland is not like in other European destinations: the weather, the road quality, and the local driving rules make it essential to get well informed before your trip.

The good news is that driving in Iceland is not as complicated as some might think. The Ring Road (Road Nº1) circles the entire island and is paved, while other secondary or mountain roads require more caution. In this guide, you will find everything you need to know about Icelandic roads: their types, conditions, rules, and practical driving tips.

Types of Roads in Iceland

Iceland’s road network is divided into several categories, depending on their condition and accessibility:

1. National Highways
   Main routes connecting the different regions of the country.

2. Primary Roads
   Mostly paved and connected to the Ring Road.

3. Secondary Roads
   Usually gravel, narrower, sometimes with potholes or puddles.

4. F-Roads (Mountain Roads)
   Lead into the Highlands. They require 4×4 vehicles only and often involve river crossings.

5. Local Roads
   Provide access to farms, fields, or rural accommodations. They may not be paved and often have names instead of numbers.

The Ring Road – Road Nº1 (Hringvegur)

The Ring Road is Iceland’s main highway and circles the island for about 1,340 km.

• Fully paved all the way around.

• Open throughout the year, except during severe weather, snowstorms, or volcanic activity.

• Mostly one lane per direction, with a few wider sections near Reykjavik, Hveragerði, or Borgarnes.

• Several single-lane bridges, where drivers must yield carefully.

• Speed limit: 90 km/h.

It is the most traveled and best-maintained road in Iceland, ideal for those planning a self-drive trip.

Paved Roads

Besides the Ring Road, many primary roads are also paved.

• Often narrower and with less traffic.

• Some sections lack lane markings, so extra caution is needed when passing large vehicles.

• Only 35% of Iceland’s roads are paved.

Gravel Roads

The majority of Iceland’s roads are made of compacted gravel.

• Primary gravel roads: relatively wide and well maintained. Speed limit: 80 km/h.

• Secondary gravel roads: narrower, bumpier, and sometimes merging into dirt tracks. Speed limit: 50 km/h. In winter they are usually impassable.

• Important: gravel roads can look like asphalt but have less grip and longer braking distances.

F-Roads (Mountain Roads)

The most challenging roads in Iceland are the F-roads, located in the Highlands.

• Marked with an “F” in front of the road number.

• Require 4×4 vehicles by law.

• The “F” designation usually means you will need to ford rivers or drive on unstable ground.

• Driving with a standard car is strictly prohibited and not covered by insurance.

• Closed during winter.

Example: the F208 south of Landmannalaugar, where river crossings are mandatory.

Road Conditions in Real Time

Always check the condition of the roads before driving:

• www.road.is – Official Icelandic Road Administration with maps and webcams.

• www.safetravel.is – Safety tips and alerts for travelers.

• Interactive map with wind and surface conditions.

Road information hotline in Iceland: 1777 (English spoken). From abroad: (+354) 522 1100.

Driving to Landmannalaugar

There are three main routes to Landmannalaugar:

• Road 208 north: the only route without an “F” prefix, accessible to standard cars.

• Road F208 south and Road F225: only for 4×4 vehicles, with river crossings.

Recommendation: if you don’t have a 4×4 or experience on mountain roads, join a Super Jeep tour or highland bus for safe access.

Opening of Mountain Roads

• Most F-roads remain closed until late June, depending on snowmelt and weather.

• They usually close again by mid-September.

• Outside this window, the Highlands are inaccessible by road.

Driving Tips in Iceland

• Respect the speed limits: 90 km/h on asphalt, 80 km/h on gravel, 50 km/h on secondary gravel roads.

• Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers.

• Headlights must be on at all times, day and night.

• Driving off-road is strictly forbidden.

• In winter: always use winter tires and check the weather forecast.

Tours and Alternatives to Driving

If you prefer not to worry about road conditions, you can join guided tours with expert drivers and adapted vehicles:

• Super Jeep tours to Landmannalaugar

• Northern Lights by 4×4

• Day and multi-day trekking tours

• Excursions to Snæfellsnes or Glymur waterfall

Self-Drive Packages with Car and Accommodation

For those who want the freedom of driving but with everything pre-arranged, we offer self-drive packages that include:

• Rental car adapted to the season (with insurance).

• Pre-booked accommodation along the route (hotels or guesthouses).

• Tailor-made itinerary and travel assistance.

A perfect option to explore Iceland safely and worry-free.