Driving through Iceland offers an unparalleled sense of freedom, allowing you to discover its unique and breathtaking landscapes. From cascading waterfalls and dramatic volcanoes to mighty glaciers, all at your own leisure. However, the roads in Iceland present special challenges, often differing significantly from what most drivers are accustomed to elsewhere. To ensure your safety and avoid potential legal issues or costly damages, it’s crucial to be aware of certain critical behaviors to avoid.
Common Mistakes Drivers Make in Iceland
In this article we will be covering our list of six common mistakes drivers make. Focusing on what not to do when driving in Iceland. Knowing not to do is equally, if not more, important than to know what to do when renting a car in Iceland. So, let's go over what to avoid when exploring Iceland with a rental car.
Don’t stop in the middle of the road for photos
Iceland’s stunning natural beauty is undeniably tempting, but abruptly stopping your vehicle in the middle of a road to capture a photograph is exceptionally dangerous. While traffic might seem sparse in certain areas, vehicles can approach quickly and unexpectedly around bends, especially on winding roads. Such sudden stops create serious collision risks for both your vehicle and others.
Always prioritize safety: locate a designated parking area or pull completely and safely off the road onto a shoulder before you even think about reaching for your camera. This ensures you and other road users remain safe. Here you can see our guide about Iceland winter photography.
Don’t underestimate F-roads
The Highland routes, specifically designated as F-roads, are an adventurous part of Iceland’s road network but are only accessible during the summer months, typically from June to September. These roads are unpaved, often characterized by rough gravel, steep inclines, sharp descents, and can be extremely remote. Critically, navigating F-roads requires a high-clearance 4x4 vehicle. Attempting to drive on F-roads with a standard two-wheel-drive (2WD) or a small rental car is not only incredibly unsafe due to the challenging terrain but also strictly illegal and will void your rental car insurance. If exploring the magnificent Highlands is part of your Icelandic adventure, ensure you select a proper 4x4 rental in Iceland that is equipped to handle these demanding conditions.
More information about driving on the F-roads in Iceland can be found in our Highland travel guide.
Don’t Drive Off-Road
Off-road driving is unequivocally forbidden throughout Iceland. The country's unique and incredibly fragile ecosystems, particularly the delicate moss and volcanic landscapes, are easily damaged by vehicle tires. Even a single pass can leave scars that take many decades, sometimes even centuries, to recover fully. Adhering to marked roads and established tracks is not just a recommendation; it’s a legal imperative. Violations of this law result in extremely high fines and cause irreparable harm to the pristine nature that attracts visitors to Iceland. Respect for the environment is paramount here.
Don’t Cross Rivers Without the Right Vehicle
Many F-roads, particularly in the Highlands, include unbridged rivers and streams that must be forded. Attempting to cross a river without a suitable 4x4 vehicle and prior experience in river crossings is extremely hazardous and can quickly lead to your vehicle being stranded or damaged, potentially swept away by strong currents. Water levels in these rivers can fluctuate dramatically and rapidly, often changing by the hour depending on rainfall and glacial melt. If you are ever uncertain about the depth or strength of a river, or if you lack the appropriate vehicle and experience, it is always safest not to risk the crossing. Turn back and find an alternative route, or wait for conditions to improve if feasible.
Don’t Speed
Speed limits in Iceland are generally lower than in many other countries, reflecting the challenging road conditions and the need for heightened caution. It is essential to be aware of and strictly adhere to these limits:
- 50 km/h in urban areas and towns.
- 80 km/h on unpaved gravel roads.
- 90 km/h on paved main roads outside of urban areas.
Given the presence of narrow roads, unexpected sharp turns, and sudden, often extreme, weather changes (including strong winds, heavy rain, or snow), exceeding these limits is inherently dangerous. The Icelandic police actively monitor speed using fixed and mobile speed cameras, and fines for speeding are substantial, making it both a safety risk and a costly mistake. That's why Iceland has the lowest speed limit in Europe.
Don’t Forget About Animals on the Road
Iceland is home to abundant wildlife, and it’s common to encounter animals on or alongside the roads. Sheep, horses, and even reindeer (particularly in the East) can appear suddenly and without warning. It is imperative to slow down significantly when you see animals in the vicinity of the road and be prepared to stop your vehicle instantly. Collisions with animals not only cause serious damage to your rental car but also inflict severe, often fatal, injuries to the animals. Exercise extreme caution and vigilance, especially when driving through rural areas.
Tips for Renting a Car in Iceland
Opting for a car rental in Iceland is arguably the best way to experience the country, offering unmatched flexibility and convenience:
- Freedom to Explore: A rental car allows you to explore at your own pace, eliminating the need to adhere to fixed tour schedules or public transport routes.
- Access to Hidden Gems: Many of Iceland’s most beautiful and secluded spots are not accessible by tour buses, making a rental car essential for reaching these off-the-beaten-path locations. Allowing you to avoid the crowds and discover hidden gems.
- Schedule Management: Having your own vehicle makes it significantly easier to adapt your itinerary, especially crucial given Iceland's famously unpredictable weather conditions. You can quickly adjust plans to chase good weather or find shelter when conditions worsen.
When booking your rental car, carefully consider the season and your intended itinerary:
- Summer Road Trips: For exploring the iconic Ring Road during the summer months, a standard 2WD vehicle is generally sufficient and economical.
- Winter Travel & Highlands: If you plan to visit Iceland during the winter (October to May) or venture into the Highlands (F-roads), a reliable 4x4 vehicle is absolutely essential for safety and legality.
Why Choose Blue Car Rental?
Blue Car Rental is dedicated to making your driving experience in Iceland as seamless and worry-free as possible. We pride ourselves on transparency, excellent service, and local expertise:
- Full Insurance Included: We believe in straightforward pricing. Every rental from Blue Car Rental includes comprehensive insurance coverage as standard, meaning no unexpected hidden costs or surprises upon pickup.
- Wide Choice of Vehicles: Our diverse fleet caters to all needs, from economical small cars perfect for city breaks and summer Ring Road trips to robust large 4x4s designed for challenging winter conditions and Highland adventures.
- Fast Pickup and Drop-off: We value your time. Our streamlined process includes convenient online check-in and secure key boxes, ensuring you can pick up and drop off your vehicle quickly, allowing you to start and end your journey without unnecessary delays.
- 24/7 Roadside Assistance: You are never alone with Blue Car Rental. We offer round-the-clock roadside assistance, providing peace of mind knowing that help is just a phone call away should you encounter any issues.
- Local Expertise: As a proud Icelandic company, we possess invaluable local knowledge of the roads, weather patterns, and driving conditions. Our team is always ready to offer advice and support, ensuring you have the safest and most enjoyable trip possible.
With Blue Car Rental, you can truly focus on the unparalleled beauty of Iceland and the joy of the journey, leaving the details and potential worries to us.
Final Thoughts
Driving in Iceland offers an intimate and unforgettable way to experience this land of fire and ice. By being mindful of essential rules and safety guidelines, you can ensure your journey is not only memorable but also safe and responsible. Remember these critical points: never stop on the road for photos, never underestimate the demands of F-roads, and always respect the strict driving regulations, especially regarding off-road driving and speed limits. Drive carefully, respect the delicate natural environment, and your Icelandic road trip will undoubtedly be an unforgettable adventure.
For a visual explanation feel free to check out our reel about "Thing not to do when driving in Iceland:"
SEAMLESS CAR RENTAL IN ICELAND: EASY PICK UP, DRIVE, AND DROP OFF
