AIR
Iceland has an extensive network of domestic flights, which locals use almost like buses. In winter a flight can be the only way to get between destinations
BICYCLE
Cycling is an increasingly popular way to see the country's landscapes, but be prepared for harsh conditions. Gale-force winds, driving rain, sandstorms, sleet and sudden flurries of snow are possible year-round.
BOAT
Several year-round ferries operate in Iceland. Major routes all carry vehicles, but it's worthwhile booking ahead for car passage.
▪ Herjólfur connecting Landeyjahöfn in South Iceland to Vestmannaeyjar islands.
▪ Sævar has frequent and easy connections from Árskógssandur in North Iceland, north of Akureyri, to the island of Hrísey.
▪ Baldur connecting Stykkishólmur in West Iceland to Brjánslækur in the Westfjords.
▪ Sæfari connecting Dalvík in North Iceland to Grímsey island on the Arctic Circle.
BUS
Iceland has an extensive network of long-distance bus routes, with services provided by a handful of main companies.
From roughly June to mid-September regular scheduled buses run to most places on the Ring Road, into the popular hiking areas of the southwest, and to larger towns in the Westfjords and Eastfjords, and on the Reykjanes and Snæfellsnes Peninsulas. The rest of the year, services range from daily, to a few weekly, to nonexistent.
In summer, 4WD buses run along some F roads, including the highland Kjölur, Sprengisandur and Askja routes (inaccessible to 2WD cars).
Bus operators offer 'bus passports' every summer (valid from early or mid-June to the first week of September), with the aim of making public transport around the island as easy as possible.
CAR
Self-drive tours around Iceland are the most popular mode of travel. The sights along the way are numerous and breathtaking. But this beautiful and rugged landscape can also create challenges that drivers may not have come across in other countries. Make sure you are fully prepared and know the rules of the road.
Icelandic roads
Highway 1, commonly known as the Ring Road, is the most travelled route around Iceland. It is open throughout the year, but weather conditions can cause temporary closures during winter. Most major highways are paved, but it may surprise travellers to learn that a large portion of the Icelandic road system is made up of gravel roads, particularly in the highlands.
Gravel roads can be in various conditions, with potholes or washboard surfaces, but most of the time they should give a good ride if care is taken. You should always navigate these roads with care, as loose gravel can be difficult to drive in. Be careful when you pass another vehicle. Sand and small rocks can easily cause damage to cars, such as cracked windshields or a ruined paintjob.
Last category of roads is F roads. ‘F’ stands for fjall (mountain). Do not confuse F roads with gravel stretches of road (regular gravel roads are normally fine for 2WDs, although some of them are bumpy rides for small, low-clearance cars). F roads are indicated on maps and road signs with an 'F' preceding the road number (F26, F88…). Opening dates vary with weather conditions, but are generally around mid- to late June. F roads only support 4WDs. F roads are unsafe for small cars.
For road conditions, see www.road.is or call 1777.
Off-road driving
Off-road driving in Iceland is prohibited by law. Due to our short summers, Icelandic soil and vegetation is extremely vulnerable. Tire tracks can leave marks for decades.
River crossing
While driving in Iceland’s highlands you’re likely to face unbridged rivers that must be crossed. There are a few rules to follow.
- Melting snow causes water levels to rise, so the best time to cross is early in the morning before the day warms up, and preferably no sooner than 24 hours after a rainstorm.
- Avoid narrow stretches, which are likely to be deep – the widest ford is likely to be shallowest.
- The swiftest, strongest current is found near the centre of straight stretches and at the outside of bends. Choose a spot with as much slack water as possible.
- Never try to cross just above a waterfall and avoid crossing streams in flood.
- If you’re not travelling in convoy, consider waiting for other traffic.
- Watch where and how experienced drivers cross.
- You may need to check the depth and speed of the river by wading into it.
- Work with the water – drive diagonally across in the direction of the current, making sure you’re in a low gear. Drive steadily, without stopping or changing gear, just slightly faster than the water is flowing (too slow and you risk getting stuck, or letting water up the exhaust).
- Livestock Sheep graze in the countryside over the summer, and often wander onto roads. Slow down when you see livestock on or near roadsides.
- Blind rises slow down and stay to the right when approaching a blind rise, marked as ‘Blindhæð’ on road signs.
- Single-lane bridges slow down and be prepared to give way when approaching single-lane bridges (marked as ‘Einbreið Brú’). Right of way is with the car closest to the bridge.
- Volcanic ashes and sandstorms can strip paint off cars; strong winds can even topple your vehicle. At-risk areas are marked with orange warning signs.
- Tunnels there are a number of tunnels in Iceland – a couple are single lane, and a little anxiety-inducing! Before you enter such tunnels, a sign will indicate which direction has right of way. There will be a couple of pull-over bays inside the tunnel (signed 'M'). If the passing bay is on your side in the tunnel, you are obligated to pull in and let oncoming traffic pass you.