Discovering Iceland by car is the best way to make the most of the country and practice slow travel. Driving across the territory independently and at your own pace. Making the most of this environment of untouched wilderness. Living in harmony with Icelandic sheep, which move around in groups of three… So stay alert if you only spot two!
The national driving licence is recognised for all European Union nationals. The highway code is substantially similar to the French one, so there are no real surprises here, aside from a few road signs featuring animals — such as reindeer — that you’re unlikely to encounter in France!
The island’s road network is made up of 30% paved roads and 70% gravel roads and tracks, some of which are only accessible by 4×4 and during the summer season.
As in every country, there are rules to follow. For your trip to Iceland, here are a few pieces of advice we strongly recommend you follow:
- For several reasons, you should always keep your headlights on, whether it’s day or night. Visibility can indeed be reduced, especially in winter. It’s therefore necessary to be seen, for your own safety as well as that of others. What’s more, driving with your lights off can result in a rather steep fine.
- Outside urban areas, the long straight roads and landscapes make it tempting to exceed the speed limits (90 km/h on paved roads, 80 km/h on tracks). But giving in to this temptation regularly causes serious accidents, as the roads often run along steep drops. Weather conditions — particularly strong gusts of wind that can shift the vehicle — change quickly and unpredictably. It’s therefore essential to stay alert and drive at an appropriate speed. On top of that, driving at 110 km/h instead of 90 carries a fine of around €600.
- Unlike in France, there is zero tolerance for drinking and driving. The maximum blood alcohol level is set at 0. So don’t get behind the wheel after drinking even a single beer. Icelanders get a lift home or take a taxi — do the same!
- Even if you rent a vehicle capable of handling any type of road or track, off-road driving is strictly forbidden in Iceland (just as walking off marked trails is forbidden). This causes major damage to the very fragile flora struggling to grow in these extreme environments. So never leave the marked tracks, even to park on the roadside.
If you get stuck somewhere and the authorities have to come and rescue you, the fine will be extremely severe… around €2,000. - Especially if you’re driving the roads of the south, take out the “Sand and Ash Protection” insurance option (SAAP). In the event of strong winds, the highly corrosive volcanic sand and ash act like glass and damage car bodywork. Without this insurance, the bill could be steep when you return your vehicle.
- Never stop on the roadside to take photos or admire the scenery. In some spots, it’s tempting to do so every 500 metres! Always use designated parking areas or side tracks to stop safely. And watch out for those who don’t follow this safety rule.
With these few pieces of advice in mind, your trip to Iceland will unfold under the best possible conditions.
Then let go and take time to contemplate a volcanic land in constant motion. An island nation with multiple spectacular landscapes shaped by bubbling solfataras, surging geysers, glaciers of impressive scale, and countless waterfalls.
Iceland is simply a land of adventure and discovery, where slow travel truly comes into its own.
Road trip in Iceland with Etendues Sauvages, towards the Northeast Fjords
Route 1 towards Grimsstaoir
Heradhssandur beach
Route 85 towards Húsavík
Music
© Justin Hurwitz, The Landing (from First Man)
© Bee Gees, More Than a Woman
© Violet, We Are Match
