When Do F-Roads Open and Close?

• Most F-roads open between early June and early July, once snow melts and conditions allow. 

• Closing usually happens in late August to mid-October, depending on weather, snowfall and road conditions.

• “Open,” “closed,” and “no winter service” are distinct statuses—understanding them matters for safety.

Choose the Right Vehicle: 4×4 Required

• Only 4×4 vehicles are legally allowed on F-roads. Standard 2WD cars are prohibited.

• Depending on the difficulty of the route:

  • Easy F-roads: smaller 4×4 SUVs can manage.

  • Medium/Hard F-roads: require larger 4×4 vehicles or super jeeps.

• On the harshest roads (big rivers, rugged terrain), super jeeps may be the only safe option.

River Crossings on F-Roads

Many F-roads require crossing unbridged rivers. This is one of the biggest challenges and dangers for drivers in the Highlands.

Tips for safe river crossings:

• Always stop and assess before crossing.

• Drive slowly in first gear, steady throttle.

• Cross at the shallowest point, ideally where other vehicles pass.

• Never cross after heavy rain or glacial melt.

• If in doubt – don’t cross.

⚠️ Important: River damage is not covered by car rental insurance. If you damage the car while crossing, you pay the cost.

Driving Times & What Affects Them

While Google Maps gives baseline times, real conditions cause delays.

Factors to account for:

• Poor weather (rain, fog, wind)

• River crossings and pauses to evaluate them

• The vehicle’s capabilities and driver skill

• Traffic (in summer, some F-roads can get busy)

• Breaks, photo stops, assistance for others

Maps and Main F-Roads in Iceland

The Highlands cover about 40% of Iceland’s landmass, accessible only by F-roads. Here are some of the most popular routes:

• F35 (Kjölur Route): Connects Gullfoss to North Iceland across the Highlands.

• F26 (Sprengisandur): A long, challenging route between the south and north.

• F208: Scenic access to Landmannalaugar, famous for its colorful rhyolite mountains.

• F249: Leads to Þórsmörk, surrounded by glaciers and volcanic valleys.

➡️ Explore our Landmannalaugar tours

Official maps from the Icelandic Road Administration provide the latest road conditions and closures.

Notable F-Roads & Their Features

Here’s a selection of F-roads worth highlighting:

These are just examples; there are many more F-roads listed in the full guide.

Tours and Alternatives to Driving Yourself

Not everyone feels comfortable driving F-roads. Luckily, there are plenty of alternatives:

• Super jeep tours – Guided adventures with expert drivers.

• Highlands day trips – From Reykjavík or South Iceland.

• Highlands buses – Seasonal public transport to Landmannalaugar and Þórsmörk.

These options allow you to experience the Highlands without worrying about 4×4 driving or river crossings.

➡️ See our Highlands day trips and tours

FAQ – F-Roads in Iceland

Do I need a 4×4 for F-roads in Iceland?
Yes, it is a legal requirement. Standard cars and 2WD vehicles are not allowed.

When do Iceland’s F-roads open?
Typically late June or early July, closing again in September. Dates vary by weather.

Are river crossings covered by insurance?
No. Rental insurance never covers river crossing damage.

Can I drive to Landmannalaugar without a 4×4?
No. The only alternatives are Highlands buses or guided tours.

Are F-roads suitable for campervans?
Only if it’s a 4×4 campervan. Regular 2WD campers are prohibited.