Driving the F-Roads in Iceland gets you off the beaten track and into amazing, barren scenery. But navigating these mountain roads can be challenging. Here’s all you need to know about driving on the F-roads in Iceland.
LAST UPDATE: 1 Dec 2023
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Some of the unique beauty of Iceland can be seen from the Ring Road, but much more lies in the desolate center of the country – the highlands.
To get into the Iceland highlands, you need to go on an F-road, or mountain road.
The F-Roads in Iceland are rough and ungraded gravel tracks that are only accessible in 4×4 vehicles,
After 4 visits to the highlands, we’ve learned a lot about driving on the F-Roads.
This guide includes everything you need to know for driving on Icelan’s F roads. We cover the type of vehicle you need, tips for crossing rivers, plus the most popular F-roads you are likely to go on.
IN THIS GUIDE
DRIVING THE F-ROADS IN ICELAND
WHAT ARE THE F-ROADS IN ICELAND?
The F-roads are unpaved gravel tracks that only open during the summer months and are only accessible in a 4×4 vehicle. Most F-roads crisscross the highlands; the central mountainous region. (The “F’ comes from fjall which means mountain in Icelandic.)
Some F-roads are good-quality gravel roads that will allow for speeds of up to 80 kilometers per hour (50 miles) in places.
Others are much more adventurous and involve driving rocky roads with potholes, ruts and boulders. Some require driving through rivers.
The F-roads are remote and you will rarely come across a shop, gas station, or hotel.
F-ROADS IN ICELAND MAP
The majority of the F-roads in Iceland connect the popular Ring Road (Highway 1 or Þjóðvegur 1) route with the mountainous central highlands area of the country. The below map provides an overview of all the F-Roads in Iceland.
WHEN ARE THE F-ROADS OPEN IN 2024?
The F-roads are only open during summer. Opening times vary based on the weather and the conditions for that particular area.
Most F-roads open around the middle of June, with a few opening at the start of June and some not opening until early July.
The below table is an indication of the opening times for 2024 based on the previous 5 years.
| F-ROAD | EARLIEST OPENING | LATEST OPENING |
|---|---|---|
| F26 Sprengisandur | 20 June | 13 July |
| 35 Kjölur | 22 May | 15 June |
| F208 Fjallabaksleið | 5 June | 8 July |
| F225 Landmannaleið | 28 May | 24 June |
| F210 Fjallabaksleið | 21 June | 15 July |
| F905 Arnardalsleið | 11 June | 30 June |
| F910 Austurleið | 11 June | 26 July |
| F88 Öskjuleið | 14 June | 1 July |
| F894 Öskjuvatnsvegur | 14 June | 6 July |
| 550 Kaldidalur | 4 May | 19 June |
WHAT VEHICLES CAN DRIVE THE F-ROADS?
Only 4-wheel drive vehicles (sometimes called AWD or 4WD ) can drive on the F-road. This is due to the rough road conditions and changing weather in the highlands.
There are 3 mountain roads that are not prefixed with an F, but also require a 4WD vehicle. They are:
- Kaldidalur Valley (road 550)
- Kjölur (road 35)
- Jökulhálsleið (road 570)
It’s illegal to drive on the F-roads in a 2-wheel drive car or in a 4WD passenger car. You will not be covered by insurance if you drive on an F road in a non-4×4 vehicle.
HOW DIFFICULT ARE THE F-ROADS IN ICELAND TO DRIVE?
Different F-roads present different challenges.
Some are smooth gravel tracks where you can fairly comfortably drive at 80 kilometers per hour, others have massive boulders to dodge. Some cross small shallow streams whereas others traverse much deeper and faster-flowing rivers.
Conditions on the mountain roads can also change quickly. What was a stream in the morning can be a river on your return trip. Bright sunny days can very quickly turn to thick clouds and mist, making visibility poor and the edges of the road indistinct.
All the F-roads in Iceland require good levels of concentration at all times and driving them can be a challenge.
IS DRIVING ON THE F-ROADS IN ICELAND WORTH IT?
Yes, there are three great reasons to drive the F-roads of Iceland.
Firstly, they get you to some of the most breathtaking scenery in Iceland. Read more about where you could go in our guide to the Iceland highlands.
Secondly, most tourists stay in the southwest of Iceland or circle the Ring Road making these destinations busy. On the F roads you’ll be rewarded with amazing scenery with far fewer visitors.
Thirdly, driving the F-roads in Iceland is an adventure in itself. The roads are natural and unkempt; navigating them requires 4×4 skills you’ll soon start to master. It’s a lot of fun.
WHERE CAN YOU GET TO ON THE F-ROADS
We have a guide covering the best places to visit in the Iceland Highlands. Each of these can only be reached by driving on an F-road. Some of our favorites are:
- The multi-colored mountains of Landmannalaugar
- Maelifell volcano rising above black sand
- Steaming geothermal Kerlingarfjöll
- The fascinating geological site of Askja
- The remote canyons of Thórsmörk
- Several of the best waterfalls in Iceland
- Some of the most scenic geothermal pools
DIFFERENT CONDITIONS ON THE F-ROADS
Each F-road in Iceland involves unique challenges. It’s important to understand the different types of F-roads to assess how comfortable you are driving on them and to determine what type of preparation you need to consider before you set off.
EASIER F-ROADS
Easy F-Roads are little more than undulating gravel tracks, with no river crossings. For these roads, inexperienced 4X4 drivers should have no problem in any sized 4WD vehicle.
MEDIUM F-ROADS
Medium F-roads present more of a challenge due to stony sections, shallow sand, and river crossings of at least 20 – 40 centimeters deep. Experience is not required, but we recommend trying some easy F-roads first with at least a medium-sized 4×4 vehicle.
CHALLENGING F-ROADS
Challenging F-Roads are very steep and filled with boulders and/or require crossings through more significant, faster-flowing rivers of around 40 – 60 centimeters deep.
These roads are often not suitable for small or medium 4×4 vehicles and require higher clearance and an experienced driver.
We recommend taking a Super Jeep tour to experience the challenging F roads.
WHAT RENTAL CAR SHOULD YOU GET FOR THE F-ROADS?
There are several factors worth considering when hiring a 4×4 for the F-roads in Iceland.
The larger the 4×4 vehicle with higher clearance, the more F-roads you can potentially drive and the more exciting destinations you can reach.
But the larger the car, the higher the car rental cost. When you add in the insurance extras, a large 4×4 can be very expensive.
Here are some of the options. Prices obviously change over time, but you can make a comparison between different vehicles and their respective ground clearance.
4WD PASSENGER CARS
4WD passenger cars are 4WD cars that look like a normal saloon, estate, or hatchback. Due to low clearance, they are not allowed on Iceland’s F-roads. Examples are Skoda Octavia or Subaru Legacy.
SMALL 4×4 SUV
A small 4×4 is only suitable on F-roads that are not too steep or bumpy and do not have any medium or large river crossings. They usually only carry two people.
| Car | Ground Clearance | Cost per Day |
|---|---|---|
| Jimmy Suzuki Manual | 8.25 inches (210mm) | US$120 |
MEDIUM 4×4 SUV
A medium-sized 4×4 will help you tackle those medium-size river crossings that are faster flowing. The higher the clearance the easier it is to negotiate rocky roads and deeper rivers.
| CAR | CLEARANCE | COST PER DAY |
|---|---|---|
| Dacia Duster Manual | 8.25″ (210mm) | US$100 |
| Suzuki Vitara Automatic | 7.25″ (185mm) | US$110 |
| Toyota Rav 4 Automatic | 8.4″ (213mm) | US$120 |
| Subaru Forester Automatic | 8.7″ (220mm) | US$130 |
LARGE 4×4 SUV
A large 4×4 with high clearance is required for the more treacherous river crossings which are faster flowing and 40 to 60 centimetres deep as well as the very steep mountain roads that head over boulders.
| CAR | CLEARANCE | COST PER DAY |
|---|---|---|
| Nissan X-Trail Automatic | 7.85″ (200mm) | US$190 |
| Toyota Hilux 4×4 Double Cab Automatic | 1″ (279mm) | US$210 |
| Toyota Land Cruiser Automatic | 8.85″ (225mm) | US$250 |
As you can see the price rises substantially from medium to large 4×4’s and yet only the Toyota Hilux 4×4 comes with significantly better clearance.
WHAT CAR DID WE HIRE AND HOW DID WE DO?
We wanted to explore the F-roads without spending a small fortune. After researching where we thought we would be able to get to and comparing prices, we went for a medium-size 4×4 with good clearance
Our plan was to drive the easy mountain roads, assess the medium roads as we went, and avoid the difficult ones.
We managed to get to every place listed on our Iceland Highlands guide except Thórsmörk where we took the Highland Bus. (We did drive out to the most difficult river crossing on a separate occasion and decided we made the right decision).
Most were fairly straight-forward except for the drive to Askja and Holuhraun. These roads have challenging river crossings, long sandy sections and, lots of large boulders. It’s an exciting but nerve-wracking trip. It was also the upper limit of what our medium-sized 4×4 could handle
WHERE TO HIRE A 4×4 VEHICLE FOR THE F-ROADS
The only place we recommend hiring a car from is Lotus Car Rental. This is not an affiliate link, and we were not sponsored by Lotus.
Lotus are the best option for hiring a car for the F-Roads simply because they are one of the few hire car companies that provide insurance for river crossings.
Their rental prices include free-pick up and drop off from the airport (5 minutes away), unlimited mileage, free cancellation with no deposit, third-party liability insurance, collision damage waiver, and theft protection.
Most importantly, they offer two types of additional insurance which is clearly explained:
LOTUS GOLD INSURANCE (+$20 per day)
Gold insurance covers gravel, sand and ash protection which is recommended in Iceland with their unique volcanic environment. However, gold insurance does not cover you for river crossings.
LOTUS PLATINUM INSURANCE (+$40 per day)
Platinum insurance covers all the above, plus it covers vehicles on the F-roads including river crossings. Very few car rental companies supply insurance for crossing rivers. Platinum Insurance also gives you a free internet hub to use in Iceland.
Important booking tip – When selecting your car on the Lotus website, be sure to select the F-roads/4×4 checkbox so that only vehicles allowed on F-roads will be shown.
TIPS FOR DRIVING THE F-ROADS OF ICELAND
All our general tips for navigating the roads of this fantastic country are on our Driving in Iceland guide.
Some important resources for driving the F-roads are:
- umferdin.is – announcements on current conditions for all roads indicating any that are unpassable.
- en.vedur.is – for the most reliable weather information in Iceland.
- vegasja.vegagerdin.is – a handy interactive map with live images of major Iceland rods.
- road.is – the official roads administration website.
CHECK WEATHER & ROAD CONDITIONS
01 – Road conditions can change very quickly, so stay up to date at safetravel.is. At the end of this guide, we have a list of F-roads and how easy they are to drive under normal conditions.
02 – Weather conditions also change quickly so pack warm clothes, waterproofs and hiking boots or shoes. Check the Iceland weather forecast before you leave.
03 – Download Google Maps to use offline in Iceland. Google Maps gives decent timings for the easier F-roads under normal conditions, but if you are on a more difficult F-road in a smaller car you will need to add time. Similarly, if you are unfamiliar with river crossings or the weather is bad it will also add extra time.
MAKE TRAVEL PLANS
04 – Let people know where you are going. Tell family and friends your itinerary and each day inform your guesthouse/hotel owner where you intend to go, what route you are going to take and where you will end up. Also, submit a travel plan to the emergency services.
05 – Download the SafeTravel App onto your mobile phone. It helps you plan journeys and keeps you informed about road conditions. It also provides information on road signs. Safe Travel App Mac // Safe Travel App Google Play
TAKE SUPPLIES
06 – Leave with a full tank of petrol and monitor your fuel usage as you go. There are almost no petrol stations in the highlands and running out is not something you want to worry about.
07 – Take plenty of food and water with you for the trip. There are very few shops and restaurants in the highlands.
08 – Make you have a spare tyre that’s fully operational or a tyre repair kit and that you know how to use it.
DO NOT GO OFF-ROAD
09 – Driving off-road is illegal in Iceland so stay on the marked tracks at all times. Life is delicate in Iceland. Plants grow very slowly and can be destroyed quickly. This is particularly true in the highlands where life is often just beginning. Not only is off-road driving illegal it can set nature back hundreds of years.
HOW TO CROSS RIVERS IN ICELAND
The biggest challenge when driving on the F-roads in Iceland is crossing rivers. Most insurance policies do not cover damage caused during river crossings unless you take the Platinum insurance from Lotus. Therefore, you need to be very careful.
Fortunately, providing you have the correct vehicle and follow these guidelines, driving across rivers in Iceland is perfectly manageable – if a little nerve-wracking. The important thing to remember is if you are in doubt, don’t cross.
PICK YOUR DAY
A ) The depth and speed of river vary depending on the day and time of year. The rivers are faster and deeper after heavy rain, but also late on warm sunny days when glacial melt has run into the valleys. Ideally leave early on dry, cloudy, and cool days.
ASSESS THE RIVER CROSSING
B ) Do not try to cross a river where the water is higher than three-quarters the height of your wheels. Look for posts marking the depth; however, most rivers do not have them.
C ) Do not attempt to cross a river that is flowing fast. In general, if you are not happy to try to wade across do not try to drive across.
D ) The wider the river the more likely you are to build up a wave in front of you as you cross. So even if it is a bit shallower be extra careful on wider river crossings.
CHOOSE YOUR ROUTE ACROSS THE RIVER
E ) Choosing the correct route for the given conditions is one of the most important things to remember when crossing a river in Iceland. While the best route changes, here are some good guidelines.
F ) Sometimes the local ranger will place a rope across the river to indicate the best route. This is where you want to cross the river, even if it involves curving around a wider section.
G ) Lots of small ripples suggest shallower water with no large rocks underneath, making it a good point to cross the river. Still water is deeper; bigger ripples or waves suggest large boulders under the surface.
H ) Tyre marks entering and exiting the river may be a good indication of where other vehicles have gone, indicating the best path. However, be aware that this could be from a much larger vehicle that didn’t need to consider their route as carefully. Always assess the situation even if there are obvious tire marks.
I ) The centre of the crossing is often deeper (because large, modified vehicles have driven straight across it and dug up the stones). It’s often better to stick to the edges.
J ) If the route is unclear it is usually better to start upstream and head diagonally downstream across the river. Going with the flow of the water is better than pushing against it and risking flooding the engine.
K ) If you are very unsure, wait for another car so you can cross together and keep an eye out for each other.
HOW TO DRIVE ACROSS
L ) Before entering the river ensure your vehicle is in a low manual gear and drive slowly (5 to 10 miles per hour) but without delay across the easier route of the crossing. The reason you want to be in low gear is to keep the revs high to stop water from entering the exhaust.
M ) Do not change gears mid-crossing, and don’t hesitate halfway through.
LIST OF POPULAR F-ROADS
While we haven’t driven all the F-roads in Iceland, we have driven quite a few; collecting information as we go. Here’s a list of the most popular F-Roads in Iceland, how difficult they are in normal conditions, and where they can take you.
DESTINATION: KERLINGARFJÖLL & THE CENTRAL HIGHLANDS
F26 (SPRENGISANDUR)
Sprengisandur is one of only two F-roads that go all the way across the highlands, connecting the northwest of Iceland with the Golden Circle and Reykjavík. There is only one major river crossing (about halfway along) but it can be unpredictable.
- Highlights – Aldeyjarfoss is a lovely waterfall close to the northern end, and Haifoss is a stunning long waterfall a short detour from the southern end.
- River Crossing – One medium to large river crossing.
- Vehicle Requirement – At least a medium-sized 4×4 SUV, sometimes a large 4×4.
F35 (KJÖLUR ROAD)
The F35 is the other F-road that traverses the country, but this one is much easier. Recently reclassified from F-35 to simply “35”, you still need a 4×4 to drive on it, but there are no river crossings and nothing particularly tricky. This is a great F-road for complete beginners.
- Highlights – Hveralvellir is an out-of-the-way hot spring, and Kerlingarfjöll Mountain Lodge is a short detour on the F347.
- River Crossing – None
- Vehicle Requirement – Any 4×4 SUV.
F347 (KERLINGAFJALLAVEGUR)
This short F-road connects the 35 Kjölur road to Kerlingarfjöll, a wonderful mountain range in a geothermal area. The first section is an easy gravel track with no river crossings. The second section from the mountain lodge to Hveradalir is rough and a little steep.
- Highlights – The geothermal area of Kerlingarfjöll is one of the best regions in the highlands. Additionally, Hveradalir is a 1-hour hike (each way).
- River Crossing – None
- Vehicle Requirements – Any 4×4 up to the Kerlingarföll mountain lodge.
DESTINATION: FJALLABAK NATURE RESERVE & LANDMANNALAUGAR
F208 NORTH (FJALLABAKSLEIÐ NYRÐRI NORTH)
This is another great road for first-timers on Iceland’s F-roads. Recently downgraded from F208 to just “208”, you still need a 4×4 SUV to drive on it, but there are no river crossings.
- Highlights – Sigöldugljúfur Canyon, Ljòtipollur Crater and (after a short time on the F224) Landmannalaugar. Read all about these amazing highlights in our Landmannalaugar Guide.
- River Crossing – None
- Vehicle Requirement – Any 4×4 SUV.
F208 SOUTH (FJALLABAKSLEIÐ NYRÐRI SOUTH)
In contrast to the F208 North, the F208 South is the toughest route into Landmannalaugar. It’s long and involves three sizeable river crossings (and many smaller ones). The first big river crossing is the Kylslahólmar and about 40 minutes later are the Halldórsdalur and the Kirkjufellfoss river crossings. They can be 40 to 60 centimetres deep and present quite a challenge.
- River Crossing – Three medium to large river crossings
- Vehicle Requirement – At least a medium, quite often a large 4×4.
F224 (LANDMANNALAUGAVEGUR)
This F-road is the short connecting road between the F208 and Landmannalaugar Camp Site. There is one medium-sized river crossing just before you reach Landmannalaugar, but if you don’t want to cross, park just before the river and walk across the pedestrian bridge. Read more about how to get to Landmannalaugar.
- Highlights – Driving into the otherworldly scenery of Landmannalaugar.
- River Crossings – One optional medium crossing.
- Vehicle Requirement – Medium 4×4 (large if you want to cross the river).
F225 (LANDMANNALEIÐ)
This is the F-road that connects Landmannalaugar with the west, and it has three or four river crossings all of which are usually small, making it a great road to practice your first river crossings. If you are off for a day hiking in Landmannalaugar, a great loop is to arrive from the north on the F208 and return via the F225.
- Highlights – The huge expanse of gravel beside the towering mountains of Langmannalaugar.
- River Crossings – Three or four usually small river crossings.
- Vehicle Requirement – Any size 4×4.
DESTINATION: THÓRSMÖRK, MAELIFELL & THE SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS
F249 (ÞÓRSMERKURVEGUR)
The F-road to Thórsmörk is one of the most challenging in Iceland. Early on there are a number of small rivers before reaching the Steinsholtsá and Hvanná crossings which require a large 4×4 and plenty of experience. Finally the main Krossá River is often a fierce torrent, requiring a specially modified vehicle.
- Highlights – Read our Guide to Thórsmörk for all the highlights, plus the different ways to plan your visit.
- River Crossings – Two large and one very large river crossing.
- Vehicle Requirement – Large 4×4 (modified super jeep for the Krossá River crossing).
F210 (FJALLABAKSLEIÐ SYÐRI)
This is a majestic road that connects the area north of Thórsmörk with the east. It has lots of small to medium crossings but two large ones stand out. In the west, the Kaldaklofskvisl river can be deep with hidden boulders and in the east, the Holmsá River can be both deep and wide. In between, there is slippery black sand and a boulder-strewn track that can be tricky to follow.
- Highlights – Most people come here to see the remarkable green volcano of Maelifell, but there is an easier way – all the details are in our Maelifell Volcano guide.
- River Crossings – 2 challenging river crossings.
- Vehicle Requirement – Large high clearance 4×4.
F232 (ÖLDUFELLSLEIÐ)
This is the easiest way to get to the base of the Maelifell volcano. The F232 leaves Highway 209 near Hrífunes and heads up the west side of the glacial valley of the Holmsá River. The three largest rivers (Leira, Jökullvisl, and Bláfellsá) have all been bridged and the road (when we took it) was in pretty good condition. There is one medium river crossing on top of the Bláfjallafoss waterfall.
- Highlights – As one of our favourite days in the highlands read all the details on our Maelifell volcano guide.
- River Crossings – 1 medium river crossing.
- Vehicle Requirement – Medium size 4×4 or larger.
DESTINATION: ASKJA & THE EAST HIGHLANDS
F905 (ARNARDALSLEIÐ)
This is a relatively easy F-road with stunning scenery. There are a couple of small river crossings and puddles but nothing difficult. Many use this road to connect to the F910 to drive to Askja.
- Highlights – The pointy mountains that rise above a mix of grey gravel and green meadows cut by sweeping rivers.
- River Crossings – a few small river crossings.
- Vehicle Requirement – Any size 4×4.
F907
This is an easy F-road that connects the eastern edge of the F910 with Route 1 in the North. We used a small section of this road to get from Stuðlagil Canyon to Askja.
- Highlight – The remarkable basalt columns of Stuðlagil Canyon.
- River Crossings – None.
- Vehicle – Any size 4×4.
F910 (AUSTURLEIÐ EAST) – BETWEEN KÁRAHNJUKAR DAM & THE F907
Between Kárahnjukar Dam and the F907, the F910 rises in an easy but bumpy progression along the eastern edge of the Vatnajökull glacier. It’s a scenically rewarding, remote drive that shows off Iceland’s many personalities.
- Highlights -Laugavallalaug Hot Springs is a stunning geothermal pool under a waterfall, and Hafrahvammagljúfur is a 200-metre-deep canyon.
- River Crossings – None.
- Vehicle Requirement – Any size 4×4.
F910 (AUSTURLEIÐ CENTRAL) – BETWEEN F907 & ASKJA
The F910 between the F907 and Askja, bumps over rocky lava fields, swerves through shallow sand, and crosses two medium-sized rivers. It’s a slow trip, but the views are exceptional.
- Highlights – The otherworldly landscapes heading towards Askja including the lava field you drive over and a huge expanse of sand and rocky boulders.
- River Crossings – Two medium river crossings.
- Vehicle Requirement – At least a medium, easier in a large 4×4.
F910 (AUSTURLEIÐ WEST) – ASKJA TO THE F26
Wild inhospitable and often remaining closed late into the year, the F910 west, goes to the new Holuhraun lava field created in 2014 and then under the flanks of Vatnajökull glacier. Very few people drive out here, so you will most likely be on your own. Ask the ranger for advice before heading off.
- Highlights – Seeing one of Iceland’s most recent lava fields in the middle of nowhere.
- River Crossings – At least two medium-to-large river crossings.
- Vehicle Requirement – Medium to Large 4×4.
F88 (ÖSKJULEIÐ)
The F88 is the other F-road that goes to Askja from the north. The F905/F910 (mentioned above) is a more interesting route but heading back on the F88 is a great loop. However, the rivers present a major challenge.
There are four river crossings in total, two small and two larger. They are not always more difficult than those on the F910 but they are more unpredictable. The main Lindaá crossing requires particular care as it’s very wide and often deep. Ask the rangers in Askja for advice before setting off.
- Highlight – Combine with F905/910 for a great loop to Askja.
- River Crossings – Two medium to large river crossings.
- Vehicle Requirement – Medium to Large 4×4.
F894 (ÖSKJUVATNSVEGUR)
The F894 is a short F-road connecting the F910 with the Viti Crater at Askja. It’s a 15-minute bumpy ride over a lava field. You can use any 4×4 on the F894, but you’ll need at least a medium one to get to it.
- Highlights – From the end of the F894 you can walk up to Askja Caldera and the Viti Crater which are geologically fascinating sites in Iceland.
- River Crossings – None.
- Vehicle Requirement – Medium to Large 4×4.
DESTINATION: LANGJÖJKULL GLACIER AND WEST HIGHLANDS
550 (KALDIDALUR)
A great way to experience the F-roads for the first time, the 550 Kaldidalur is just a short distance from the Golden Circle. It is a mountain road, rather than an F-road but you still need a 4×4 to drive it. There is nothing difficult and there no river crossings
- Highlights – The bleak and barren views heading towards the mighty Langjökull glacier.
- River Crossings – None.
- Vehicle Requirement – Any 4×4.
551
The 551 is a short mountain road that connects the 550 Kaldidalur with the edge of Langjökull glacier. From here, guided groups take mountain buses onto the ice cap and hike into the glacier. It’s a lovely short drive winding past waterfalls & canyons to the bright white of the glacier.
- Highlight – Walk to the edge of the Langkökull glacier or join a snowmobile tour.
- River Crossings – None.
- Vehicle – Any 4×4.
MORE ICELAND READING
- For more inspiration, read our guide to the best places to visit in Iceland.
- To help plan your vacation, we have put together 6 epic itineraries for Iceland.
- More of the highlands areas are covered in our guide to the Iceland Highlands.
- Our guide on the best places to stay in Iceland has accommodation recommendations for each area.
- Have a great road trip from Reykjavik with our Golden Circle driving route.
- We have more tips about general road trip advice in our guide to driving in Iceland.
Your absolutely beautiful impressions make me really consider to re-visit Iceland for some more impressions. We did “only” the ring route but for that we missed of course many other amazing spots that you can obviously only reach with a 4×4. I like the complete solitude and loneliness of these spots that you have seen and share here. This is a great side of Iceland and an absolutely appealing as well. Also all your helpful tips like how crossing rivers and planning such trips are really helpful – thanks a lot for sharing your impressions, guys!
You are welcome Hendrik. When you set off into the centre in a 4×4 for the first time its a bit nerve-wracking, but we quickly got used to it and soon relaxed. It is another side of Iceland that is really worth seeing, especially as the ring road is getting busier and busier these days. Hope you get the chance to go again.
Oh my word!!! The landscape scenery you’ve shown is incredible! I hadn’t heard of the F-Roads before, but now I think renting a 4×4 and exploring them is something I’ll have to do. despite not having a licence, I think I’ll have to drag a friend along for the ride!
It might have looked even better if there had been a bit more sun! I think handing the driving over is an excellent idea. Paul did all our driving, but every time the road got a bit rougher I became a truly excellent ‘back seat’ driver…….
This sounds like such a fun and adventurous way to explore Iceland! You gave very good tips on watching the gas gauge and letting someone know where you’re going. I’m not sure that my nerves could take multiple days of having to be really mindful although it sounds so tempting to get away from crowds. Saving these tips for our trip!
We found the very first day and first river-crossing a bit nerve-wracking, but you quickly relax and by the end we were making these trips without a care in the world. And as you say, the reward is being alone (or almost alone) in some remarkable scenery.
I travelled in Iceland last year and did not drive the f roads and stuck to the main a road. You do need to be careful and get used to a 4×4 first. Secondly the weather is so unpredictable in Iceland that it takes nerves to drive there. Must say some great tips shared here.
Thanks Amar. Yes conditions do change and you do need to be careful. But I think the other important point, is that not all f-roads are the same. Some are much more straight-forward than others (like Kerlingarfjöll), and these are an excellent place to start when learning how to use a 4×4.
This is such a useful post for anyone wanting to take the same road trip around the F roads. When we were there, we did mainly tours (!) but it suited us just fine. I don’t know how I’d be in a 4×4, so I think I’d just let my partner stay at the wheel! The weather there is really predictable.
I have to say we were nervous the first day, but we quickly got used to it, and some of the f-roads (like Kerlingarfjöll) are barely more difficult than others on the ring road. Although, as you say, since it is in the mountains, you do need to be aware of expected weather conditions.
Was curious to know what are the F Roads. Glad you explained that. While such roads are not new to us, we have never experienced a 4X4 ride on them and Iceland is on our list. Sand and ash insurance and gravel insurance are pretty unique! F roads in Iceland are a visual treat and happy that there are bus services to visit the highlands as well for those who might want to consider options apart from 4X4 ride! We are currently driving around in Himalayas and I would agree that mountain roads requires a lot more concentration and skill.
Wow, driving around the Himalayas is something I would love to do. I walked to the Annapurna Sanctuary about 10 years ago and have been dying to go back ever since. You have reinvigorated my interest. Time to make new plans!
I am so going to rent a 4WD in Iceland because I want to go to the less touristy, offbeat, extremely beautiful places like the ones you mention! Thanks for the info about F-roads and where all they lie in Iceland, the map is really helpful. I am planning a trip in 2019 (summer or autumn) and I am gathering all the info I can before I go. This post has been super helpful in making my decision about renting a 4WD, no two ways about it!
It’s the best way to see the country and it’s great to get off the very popular Ring Rd, so much more to do if you’re willing to be a little adventurous. Glad you found it useful!
Glad to learn about the F-road concept. I agree that mountain roads are treacherous and quite tough to drive on. I have driven across the Himalayas for two years and I know how useful this post is for enthusiasts.
Thanks for your comments. I would love to drive across the Himalayas – sounds like quite an adventure!
First of all hats off to your guts in taking the F Road with a rental 4×4 when you’re not an experienced 4×4 driver!!! This is super adventurous. Though I’d love to try this out, right with a baby in hand, I might take the ring road as well.
Yes with a baby in hand, it might be a little more challenging! Thanks for your comment.
Hey Mark!
Thanks for the great article with all those useful tips! I have an unrelated question though about one of those shots of yours up there!
Where exactly did you take the picture of that landscape with what looks like stairs going up? The picture directly below the interior of the car (with you on the wheel)? I would really appreciate if you can let me know cuz I planned to go Iceland this summer and definitely wanna visit that spot! Thank you! 🙂
Hi Manazir – Thanks for your great comments. That shot is from Kerlingarfjoll. You can’t go to Iceland without visiting Kerlingarfjoll! Here’s all our info about it: https://anywhereweroam.com/hiking-in-kerlingarfjoll/
Thank you Mark and Paul! I just added this destination to my Iceland trip itinerary 🙂 And yes, I also have a general idea about how to get there. I will be doing that trip starting at Akureyri, go down the F35 to this beautiful place and then continue with F35 afterwards towards Reykjavik and end the ring road trip.
I am glad I’ve stumbled upon this article. We’ve been wanting to visit Iceland for ages, but never considered renting a 4×4 until now :).
Hi Julia – we highly recommend getting a 4×4 if you like to get off the beaten track a little. It’s a very rewarding experience in Iceland.
Love your article. so thorough! thank you.
Just wondering what kind of insurance you took for the car? did you get all types of insurance including gravel and ash and sand?
thanks!
Hi Nat,
We went into the highlands a few times so we thought it was worth taking the full ash and sand protection, but not theft. Some of the roads are particularly rough so damage can easily occur. We’re in the process of reviewing car rental companies in Iceland and suggest you look at Lotus Car Rentals. They have the clearest insurance policies and the best prices that we have seen so far.
Hope this helps and enjoy your trip!
Paul.
This is a fantastic guide so thank you. My friend and I have been to Iceland on numerous occasions but haven’t yet tackled the Highlands and the interior. So we plan to rectify this in 2024. I think here in the UK there are companies that offer off road driving courses – things like uneven and unpaved surfaces and water crossings, although none are likely to be anywhere near Icelandic conditions. Would you recommend something like this? Or is learning as we go along a good option?
Thanks Keith, glad you found our guide useful. I’m sure you’ll be fine learning as you go in Iceland, you really just need to take your time and get a feel for the conditions. A good place to start on the highlands is Landmannalaugar, one of the most accessible destinations in the highlands. The F26 and F208 from the North is one of the easiest F-road routes to drive and it’s a great place to pratise your skills. Just make sure you don’t attempt the river crossing at the very entrace to Landmannalaugar. We have all the details on getting there via the F26/F208 route here.
Good Luck!
Excellent article. You really got us interested in a trip to the highlands. We live in North East USA. Do you know of any ferry service that could get our off-road vehicle to Iceland? Thanks in advance for any advice.
Best,
Michael and Beth
Hi Michael and Beth –
Thanks so much, glad you’re interested in the highlands, it’s a great part of the country. The only ferry service we know about is from Denmark via the Faroe Islands. I believe this is currently the only way to get to Iceland without flying.
Paul.
Yo no joke, best blog on iceland I’ve found and I’ve been researching for a couple weeks. Thank you so much! I
Thanks a lot, that’s so great to hear! We have a lot of fun getting all the information. Have a great trip!
From what I’ve read, people recommend around 10 days or so to do the ring road. You obviously can’t see some sights like beaches on F-roads, however it looks like most other things like waterfalls, canyons, epic views, etc can be seen from F-roads. How would you recommend to split up a 10 day itinerary? When you’re traveling on F-roads, do you typically need to go back closer to the ring road for lodging?
Hi Matt,
Yes, we recommend around 10 day to see the Ring Road as well. Our Ring Road Itinerary covers what to do on each day and you can see the split of how much time we spend in the highlands versus on the Ring Road. We didn’t stay in the highlands at all, we just travelled in for the day and back out again to stay on the Ring Road.
Our Iceland highlands guide has all the top places to visit in the highlands if you wanted to add any other sights into your itinerary.
Hope this helps.
Paul.
Thanks for the article, how much time do you need for the highlands? I assume they are much larger than they look on a map, plus at some points you probably need to go very slowly. I just don’t have an idea, is a week enough? 2 weeks? 4 weeks? Thanks 🙂
Hi Mar,
If you want to see the highlights of the highlands, we would recommend around 5 days to a week.
1 to 2 days – Haifoss, Sigöldugljúfur, Ljótipollur, Landmannalaugar.
1 day – Kerlingarfjoll
1 day – Maelifell
1 day – Askja
1 day – Thorsmork (but you’ll probably need to get the bus)
Have a look at our Iceland Highlands guide, and pick the places you would like to visit.
Also our Adventure Itinerary on this guide, might help
You would generally just visit the highland locations from the Ring Road on a day trip, but if you have a large 4×4 you could possibly combine some of them.
Hope this helps, have a great trip.
Paul.