Driving in Iceland
The total length of the Ring Road around Iceland (national highway) is 1.339 km. The Ring Road is generally paved but all mountain roads and roads in the interior of Iceland have a surface of gravel. The surface on gravel roads is often loose, especially along the sides of the roads, so one should drive carefully and slow down whenever approaching an oncoming car. There are many single-lane bridges on the Ring Road. The rule is that the car closer to the bridge has the right-of-way. It may however be wise to stop and assess the situation.
Traffic signs
Certain traffic signs are specific to Iceland.
Speed limit
The general speed limit is 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on gravel roads in rural areas, and 90 km/h on asphalt roads. Special warning signs indicate danger ahead, such as sharp bends, but there is generally not a separate sign to reduce speed. Please choose a safe speed according to conditions.
Please note
It’s important to keep in mind that:
- Motorists are obliged by law to use headlights at all times day and night.
- All driving off roads or marked tracks is forbidden.
- Passengers in the front and back seats of a car are required by law to use safety-belts.
- Children must wear seatbelts or be in car safety seats, depending on age and maturity.
- Icelandic law forbids any driving under the influence of alcohol.
- You can expect livestock (mostly sheep) to be on or alongside the road. This is common all over Iceland and can be very dangerous.
Filling stations
In the greater Reykjavík area filling stations are open Mon-Sat 07:30-20:00, Sun 09:00-20:00 (Oct- May 10:00-20:00). Many of the filling stations are open until 23:30. Opening hours around the country, where the pumps are privately operated, can vary from place to place. Most stations are open until late in the evening, to 22:00 or even 23:30. Many stations in the Reykjavík area have automats in operation after closing, which accept 1000 krónur bank notes and credit cards. All filling stations accept credit cards. Automats are also operated in various places around the country. Octane levels in Iceland are 92 regular unleaded, 98 premium leaded and premium unleaded 95.
The weather
The weather in Iceland is very unpredictable, particularly in the highlands. Please remember to check the weather forecast and road conditions prior to departure, especially in the winter.
The following link provides useful information:
« How to Drive in Iceland » video
The Road Traffic Directorate has produced a « How to Drive in Iceland » video, which covers many of the points you should keep in mind when driving in Iceland.
Mountain roads and highland driving
Mountain roads are often very narrow and not made for speeding. In addition to not having an asphalt surface, mountain roads are very winding. Journeys therefore often take longer than expected. For information on road conditions: Tel: 354-563-1500, answering service 24 hours, Tel: 800-6316 (In English 1/6-31/8).
Most mountain roads are closed until the beginning of July, or even longer because of wet and muddy conditions which make them totally impassable. When these roads are opened for traffic, many of them can only be negotiated by four-wheel-drive vehicles. It is strongly advised that two or more cars travel together. Also, before embarking on any journey into the interior collect as much information as possible regarding road conditions from a travel bureau, tourist information office or the Icelandic Road Administration (ICERA) Tel: +522 1000 or 1777 – http://www.vegagerdin.is/english/. A booklet called Mountain Roads can be obtained at Tourist Information Centers and the offices of the Icelandic Tourist Board abroad. Always take along a detailed map.
Driving in the Icelandic highland is quite different from driving in the lowland. The conditions can change fast due to weather, rain and even sometimes snow. Roads may therefore be closed and rivers too big to cross. Before you start your travel you should get information about the area as well as leave your travel plan with someone who can check up on you if needed.
You need to be well-prepared for a trip to the highlands:
- Start by checking if the area you are going to visit is open
- Get as much information about the area as you can
- Information centers, rangers and hut wardens can help you get the information needed
- Are you sure that you have the experience and knowledge needed to go the highland?
- If you are driving be on a 4×4 jeep, other cars will only get you into trouble
- If you are no sure how to cross a river, skip it or wait for the next car to assist you over
Rivers and streams
You might have to cross rivers and streams if you are planning a trip to the highlands in a four-wheel-drive vehicle. Please keep in mind that you are crossing them at your own risk. No insurance covers water damages. These can be very expensive.
(Source: www.us.is; www.safetravel.is)
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