Driving In Iceland

Useful information to guide you during your trip in Iceland.

Before you drive in Iceland, know the tips and regulations

Iceland’s roads can be challenging due to unpredictable weather, strong winds, and strict traffic laws. Knowing the local driving tips and regulations before setting off will help you stay safe, protect your vehicle, and avoid fines that can quickly turn an amazing trip into an expensive one.

The Ring Road and F-roads

The total length of the ring road (R1) is about 1,332km, is mostly paved and is easy to drive on, but in parts it can be narrow and requires your concentration. The mountain roads (F-roads) are closed during the winter and are often impassable well into the summer. Conditions can vary and can change quickly on F-Roads if there is snow, ice, or heavy rain resulting in deep pot holes and rocks lying in the road, so great awareness is required of the driver. Such condition can cause damages, especially to the underbody of the car, which is not covered by our insurance, so please drive carefully!

Emergency roadside assistance (+354 455 0000)

If the car malfunctions due to normal wear and tear, or for other reasons beyond the renter´s control, Geysir shall supply the renter with a comparable vehicle as soon as is possible, or arrange to have repairs done as soon as can be arranged by a Geysir service partner. A refund will be made for a lost rental day if the renter is deprived from using rented car for a period over 24-hours. Geysir will assist you with all other problems with the car, but at the renters responsibility and cost.

Before you head out, check weather and road condition

en.vedur.is – The weather forecast for Iceland. The three maps on the front page tell all. Always check the wind speed map first! As well as all the pertinent weather information you need for the day there is also a mine of information on the site, including earthquake activity and where in the country the Aurora might be seen.

road.is – Has detailed, colour coded information about all the roads in Iceland and the conditions are updated regularly. There is also another page that shows the location of over 100 webcams that each gives several views of the road and surroundings.

safetravel.is – SafeTravel provides lots of useful information about travelling safely in Iceland whether by road, overland or sea.