In a country where 'ice' is part of the name, it's good to be prepared
Driving in Iceland is likely to be different than what you’re used to back home, even if you’re used to snowy, icy winters. Below are important tips to keep in mind if you’re travelling on our self-drive tours in Iceland between October and April.
Check weather and road conditions
When you check the forecasts for a clear night during your hunt for the northern lights, remember to check about road conditions and look for travel alerts as well. Icelandic weather is known to change rapidly, so it's vital you monitor weather conditions regularly over the course of the day.
We recommend the following Icelandic sites:
- Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration – Provides information about road closures and current driving conditions (snow, sleet, fog, etc.) by region on maps and also has webcams
- SafeTravel – Offers up-to-the-minute travel alerts, travel plan monitoring and safety guidelines for driving and outdoor activities
Download the "112 Iceland" app
If you’re travelling with a smartphone, we recommend downloading the “112 Iceland” app from SafeTravel. It is connected to emergency responders in Iceland and can help locate your vehicle if you find yourself in a hazardous situation.
Save the emergency services number
In case of an accident or other life-threatening situation, you should first try to call 112, Iceland’s emergency number.
Remember you have support
Winter storms can bring high winds, poor visibility and slippery surfaces. If the weather is deemed unfit for driving and your travel plans are disrupted, rest assured that Nordic Visitor can sort out your accommodation and adjust your itinerary as needed.
If you’re in doubt about the climate or weather on your trip, don’t hesitate to ask the advice of a local or contact your travel consultant.
Use maps before GPS/Maps coordinates
Important: please do not use only your phone GPS to guide you!
You should always use the hand-marked map provided by Nordic Visitor as your main navigational tool when driving.
Many Icelandic place names are difficult to spell, are similar or identical to names in a different part of the country. So your phone maps might give you directions to a place you never intended to visit. GPS also tends to provide routes with the shortest journey, not taking into account any winter road closures.
Always cross-check any GPS or Maps directions with your paper map provided by Nordic Visitor, and don’t forget to check weather conditions.
More winter driving travel tips
- The days are short during Icelandic winter, with just 3–4 hours of daylight at the Winter Solstice in late December. See sunrise/sunset times here.
- Driving over mountain passes and heaths require extra precaution; these parts of Route 1 (the Ring Road) are occasionally closed in bad weather.
- Slow down! The roads may be icy even if they appear clear.
- Never pull over on the side of the road unless in an emergency. Take photos only when parked in designated safe stopping areas.
- Open your car doors carefully in windy conditions.
- Headlights must be used at all times, even in daylight.
Looking for information about Icelandic driving laws, common road hazards, petrol stations, parking and more? Check our handy driving guide.
