Summer
Summer driving
Driving in Iceland is a unique experience and there is no better time to travel in the land of fire and ice than summer.
In summer driving around Iceland is quite easy, especially when compared to winter. The weather is usually calm and there is no risk of snow and ice.
Here are some of the most useful information regarding driving in summer in Iceland.
Main concerns
- Road constructions.
- Animals on the road.
- Puncture tires on gravel roads.
Driving on F-roads
The F-Roads are usually only open from late June until early September. However, not all F-roads open at the same time.
Only 4x4/AWD are allowed on the F-roads. In front of the front passenger seat can you see if the car is recommended for driving on F-roads.
Please note: The highland is extremely remote, and it can take time getting assistance. It is highly important to research routes and see road conditions before traveling there.
Some F-roads may require crossing rivers. Be extremely careful when crossing rivers or water as it can be dangerous, and the simplest mistake can drown the car. Before crossing make sure that no other route is possible!
Driving on a closed F-Roads is strictly. For further information regarding road conditions on F-roads visit www.road.is .
River Crossing
Where might I have to cross rivers?
River crossing in Iceland is mostly associated with the F-roads. The F-roads are routes across the highlands of Iceland. These roads are unpaved and most of them have unbridged river crossing.
It is only when travelling off the main road system where you find routes which require river crossing. There are no unbridged rivers on the main roads in Iceland, for example on the Ring Road.Is my car suitable for crossing rivers?
This is common, but a tricky question. Which type of 4x4 is suitable for river crossing can differ depending on the river and the condition of that river. On top of that, water levels in rivers can change quickly and are not always the same day by day or even hour by hour. Meaning that some rivers can be impassable for any car, regardless of their size.
Before crossing a river
Before crossing a river make sure that no other route is possible. Be extremely careful when crossing rivers as it can be dangerous, and the simplest mistake can drown the car. Keep in mind that damages caused by water or river crossing aren´t covered by insurances.
When crossing a river
Drive very slowly but without hesitation so that water doesn´t reach and damage the engine or the electrical system of the car. Use 1st or 2nd gear only, never take your foot of the gas and never apply the clutch in the middle of the river.
If you are unexperienced, you may want to have someone to guide you across. If possible, wait for others to cross the river at the same time as you. Then you will have assistance if needed.
You can also walk across the river, ahead of the car. The rule of thumb is, if you can´t walk across, you can´t drive across.
What can I do to minimize the risk of crossing river?
When traveling in Iceland you should always check road and weather conditions. This is especially important when traveling on F-roads. See if the roads are clear or if there are any signs that may cause problems. By doing some research you might avoid major problems.
Most accident occur due to human mistakes. The best advice we can offer is to know your limits and do not take changes.
