F-Roads in Iceland: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go

F-roads in Iceland are the part of the journey that guidebooks gloss over or water down. These aren’t cozy sightseeing routes. They test your planning, your vehicle, and your nerve. Skip the prep, and you’ll end up stranded, fined, or fighting with your insurance company while a tow truck empties your wallet.

We don’t do the silky version here. You’ll get the hard truth: what gear you actually need, how insurance really works, and the rules people break before realizing the mistake costs more than their plane ticket. If you want glossy promises, read somewhere else. If you want to drive the Highlands without wrecking your trip, stick around.

What Are F-Roads in Iceland?

So, what are Highland F-roads? Think of them as Iceland’s not-so-friendly invitation to the Highlands. ‘F’ stands for Fjallvegur mountain road. Cute name, brutal reality. These tracks swap asphalt for gravel, boulders, and river crossings that don’t come with bridges or cozy touristy restaurants along the way. 

Regular gravel roads? Fine, manageable. F-roads are their wild cousins, the ones your insurance paperwork side-eyes. By law, only 4×4 vehicles are allowed. Take anything less and it’s not just risky, it’s flat-out illegal. 

And yes, insurance will happily abandon you if you try. The payoff, though? Raw landscapes, lava deserts, geothermal valleys, and silence so deep it feels unreal. You’ll also encounter miles of black sand, endless lava, and glacial rivers that make you second-guess your life choices.

Where Can You Find F-Roads in Iceland?

Most of Iceland’s F-roads are tucked away in the Highlands. You’ll also find one in the Westfjords, the F66, a steep track cutting across mountains with a few river splashes thrown in. That road alone connects the north and south of the region and is every bit as rugged as it sounds.

The thing about Iceland’s F-roads is their remoteness. Cell service? Spotty at best. Gas stations, stores, or help of any kind? Forget it. Once you leave the Ring Road behind, you’re basically on your own. 

That’s part of the charm, but also why preparation isn’t optional. Key connections branch straight off the Ring Road, leading into legendary routes. Each route delivers raw scenery that most people can only dream of seeing. 

When Do F-Roads Open and Close?

Iceland’s F-roads opening dates for 2025 usually land somewhere between mid-June and early October. Easy routes like F35 sometimes sneak open in late May. The tougher, more remote tracks? They like to drag their feet until early July. Closing comes fast, late September or October, when the first storms or early snow make things ugly.

Want real info, not wishful thinking? Check Umferdin.is, SafeTravel.is, for real-time updates. They’ll tell you what’s open, closed, or still buried under snow. July and August are prime time: roads in their best condition, daylight stretched long, and just enough predictability to keep you moving. Outside that, you’re gambling with Iceland’s mood swings.

Mountain Road Routes 2017-2024	Earliest Opening Date	Latest Opening Date	Median Opening Date
F206 – Lakagigar	12th June	25th June	18th June
F208 – Fjallabaksleid north	​	​	​
1.Sigalda – Landmannalaugar	24th May	20th June	10th June
2.Laugar – Eldgja	14th June	8th July	28th June
3.Eldgja – Skaftatunga	5th June	26th June	13th June
F210 – Fjallabaksleid south	​	​	​
1.Keldur – Hvanngil	21st June	10th July	3rd July
​2.Hvanngil – Skaftartunga	28th May	14th July	22nd June
F225 – Landmannaleid	28th May	14th July	22nd June
F261 – Emsturleid	21st June	8th July	2nd July
35 – Kjalvegur	​	​	​
1.Gullfoss – Hveravellir	24th May	15th June	8th June
2.Hveravellir – Blönduvirkjun	22nd May	12th June	5th June
F26 – Sprengisandur	​	​	​
​1.Hrauneyjar – Nyidalur	20th June	9th July	1st July
2.Nyidalur – Bardadalur	20th June	9th July	1st July
​F752 – Skagafjardarleid	​26th June	9th July	​5th July
​F 821 – Eyjafjardaleid	28th June	24th July	10th July
F88 – Öskjuleid	​	​	​
1.Inn ad Herdubreidarlindum	14th June	1st July	​21st June
2.Herdubreidarlindir – Dreki	​14th June	​1st July	​20th June
F894 – Öskujuvatnsvegur	​14th June	6th July	21st June
F864 – Holsfjallavegur	2nd June	29th June	13th June
F902 – Kverkfjalaleid	14th June	30th June	20th June

​F905 – Arnardalsleid	11th June	​30th June	​19th June
​F910 – Austurleid	11th June	​17th July	​28th June
52 – Uxahryggjavegur	​16th April	​16th May	1st May
​550 – Kaldadalsvegur	​4th May	19th June	​25th June

What Type of Car Do You Need for F-Roads?

On Icelandic F-roads, we can’t stress this enough: you need a 4x4. Not a wannabe AWD crossover. Not the cheapest compact on the lot. A proper 4x4 built to take hits from gravel, ruts, and the occasional river.

High ground clearance is the key. Aim for at least 20 cm (8 inches) so you don’t rip the undercarriage open on the first stretch of uneven terrain. Rental companies are crystal clear about which models are approved for F-road use, and they don’t put that fine print in for fun. 

So, confirm before you rent any car in Iceland if you plan to hit the F-roads.

Why 4×4 Vehicles Are Mandatory

By now, you probably understand what an F-road is in Iceland. Rough tracks carved through lava, potholes big enough to swallow tires, steep inclines, and rivers that refuse to play nice. A two-wheel drive has no chance here. It bottoms out, loses traction, and leaves you stranded in the middle of nowhere. That is why the law says 4×4 only, and honestly, it is not negotiable.

And yes, you are probably tired of hearing about insurance, but we have to warn you again. Use the wrong vehicle and your coverage disappears instantly. Drive a 2WD onto an F-road and you are not just breaking the rules, you are volunteering to pay every cent of recovery, damage, and fines. That is not a risk; it is a guarantee.

Recommended Car Models for F-Road Driving

Here’s a no-nonsense look at five of the best choices from your 4x4 fleet. Each one has its strengths, and each is fully ready for Icelandic F-roads. 

Dacia Duster (manual)

The Dacia Duster is a classic for Iceland, and for good reason. It’s compact enough to make parking in Reykjavik painless, yet rugged enough to chew through gravel and uneven Highland tracks. With proper 4WD and decent ground clearance, it can take on moderate river crossings and handle the unpredictable surfaces of Icelandic F-roads. 

Folks who don’t want to overspend but still want a vehicle capable of tackling the Highlands often land here. It’s efficient on fuel, steady on long drives, and easy to maneuver on tight tracks. Think of it as the gateway 4x4: affordable, reliable, and tough enough to get you to Landmannalaugar without drama.

Specs:

• Transmission: Manual
• Seats: 5
• Drive: 4WD
• Insurance: CDW, SCDW, TP, GP included

Suzuki Jimny (manual)

The Jimny is a tiny tank disguised as a 4x4. It’s boxy, quirky, and unapologetically rugged. With just two seats, it’s not built for families, but solo adventurers or couples who want to explore Icelandic F-roads love it. 

The Jimny’s narrow frame lets it slip through Highland trails where bulkier SUVs struggle. It’s also light, which helps when crossing shallow rivers or climbing steep inclines. Comfort is limited, luggage space is laughable, but capability? 

That’s where it shines. If you want raw adventure and don’t mind sacrificing a bit of comfort, the Jimny is your no-nonsense Highland partner.

Specs:

• Transmission: Manual
• Seats: 2
• Drive: 4WD
• Insurance: CDW, SCDW, TP, GP included

Jeep Renegade (automatic)

The Jeep Renegade mixes modern comfort with rugged performance. Automatic transmission makes it easy for drivers not used to manuals, while solid clearance and capable 4WD ensure it can handle Iceland’s unpredictable terrain. 

It feels confident on gravel, steady in shallow rivers, and agile enough for most Highland tracks. It’s a good middle-ground option: not as basic as the Jimny, not as huge as the Land Cruiser, but perfectly at home on Icelandic F-roads. 

The Renegade suits travelers who want a balance between adventure and comfort, with space for friends or family and enough muscle to handle demanding drives.

Specs:

• Transmission: Automatic
• Seats: 5
• Drive: 4WD
• Insurance: CDW, SCDW, TP, GP included

Toyota RAV4 (automatic)

The Toyota RAV4 is the reliable all-rounder in the fleet. It offers comfort for longer Ring Road trips while still holding enough grit to tackle most F-roads. With spacious seating for five and ample luggage space, it’s the family-friendly option that won’t leave you stranded in the Highlands. 

Gravel, uneven surfaces, and moderate water crossings are no issue, and the automatic transmission keeps driving stress-free. It’s not built for extreme Highland punishment, but for most people, it’s the perfect middle ground: strong, comfortable, and versatile. A smart pick if you want one car for both city driving and Highland exploration.

Specs:

• Transmission: Automatic
• Seats: 5
• Drive: 4WD
• Insurance: CDW, SCDW, TP, GP included

Toyota Land Cruiser 150 (automatic)

The Land Cruiser 150 is the heavyweight champion, built for the toughest F-roads Iceland has to offer. With serious clearance, a powerful engine, and space for seven passengers, it’s designed for travelers who want peace of mind in the Highlands. 

Deep rivers, sharp inclines, and long stretches of brutal terrain are where this SUV feels at home. It’s not the cheapest option, but it’s the one you take if you don’t want surprises. Comfort is high, the cabin is spacious, and it’s fully capable of carrying families or groups across Iceland’s harshest roads. If safety and reliability are non-negotiable, this is your answer.

Specs:

• Transmission: Automatic
• Seats: 7
• Drive: 4WD
• Insurance: CDW, SCDW, TP, GP included

What Insurance Do You Need for F-Roads?

If you’re planning to tackle Icelandic F-roads, insurance is not just paperwork; it’s survival. At Cars Iceland, every rental already comes with a solid base: CDW, SCDW, Gravel Protection, and Theft Protection. That means your vehicle’s bodywork is covered, your liability deductible is reduced, and you’re safe against the constant shower of gravel chips that Iceland loves to throw at windscreens and headlights. Theft? Covered, too, with no deductible. Nice start, but it’s not enough for the Highlands.

Here’s the truth. Standard CDW will never cover undercarriage damage, doors ripped by wind gusts, or water damage from rivers. And river crossings? Insurance will abandon you entirely. No company in Iceland covers that risk. If you drive through a river and wreck the engine, it’s on you.

That’s why our optional extras matter. The Liability Waiver reduces your deductible to zero. Sand & Ash Protection is another must-have, especially in the south and east, where storms can strip paint and crack glass in minutes. Together, these plans give you the best defense available. 

How to Drive on F-Roads Safely

The advice you’re about to read is probably the most important part of this entire guide. F-roads don’t forgive mistakes, and bad decisions here cost more than money. Listen closely, it might save your trip.

River Crossings: Tips and Warnings

Rivers are the single biggest gamble on Icelandic F-roads. Get them right, and you feel like a champion. Get them wrong, and you are phoning (if there is a signal) for help while water seeps into the cabin. The first rule is patience. Stop before the crossing. Walk to the edge and check the depth, current, and riverbed. If the water is cloudy, throw a stone in to see how deep it goes.

When it looks manageable, shift into low gear, roll forward slowly, and keep a steady throttle. Do not stop mid-river. That hesitation is what leaves cars stuck in the current. Look for guideposts or markers like the orange poles on F208. They often mark the safest path across. If other cars went before you, their tracks are usually a good clue.

Cross slightly downstream with the current to cut resistance. Always accept that risk is built in. Cars get damaged. People get stranded. If the river looks too fast or too deep, turn back or wait. Nothing you want to see is worth flooding an engine. And if you are not sure, send someone outside to guide you through. One clear signal from a spotter can make all the difference.

Fuel, Supplies, and Emergency Planning

Gas stations in Iceland are mostly clustered around the Ring Road and towns. Once you turn onto F-roads, stations become scarce or vanish completely. That is why topping off the tank before heading into the Highlands is non-negotiable. 

Some routes, like F26, stretch for more than 200 km (124 mi) with zero services in between. If your rental policy allows, carry an extra fuel canister for long or back-to-back Highland trips. Fuel is just the start. Weather in the Highlands can change from sunshine to sleet in minutes, so bring extra food, water, warm layers, and blankets. 

Think survival kit, not picnic basket. Since cell reception is often nonexistent, register your travel plans on safeTravel.is so rescuers know where to start if things go sideways. A satellite phone or an emergency beacon is worth every krona if you break down far from help. Roadside assistance will eventually reach you, but ‘eventually’ in Iceland can mean hours. 

Rules to Follow on F-Roads

By now, you know what an F-road is in Iceland, but knowing is not enough. Driving them safely means following rules that exist for good reason. First, never leave the marked tracks. Off-roading is illegal, it scars fragile moss and volcanic soil for decades, and it instantly voids your rental insurance. If you think fines are expensive, try explaining environmental damage to the authorities.

The surface itself is no joke. Gravel is loose, roads are narrow, and blind corners appear out of nowhere. Adjust your speed. A safe 60 km/h (37 mph) on flat stretches can become dangerous on bends where control slips easily. Always give way to uphill vehicles or buses since they cannot maneuver as easily on steep ground.

Headlights should stay on at all times, even in daylight, because Highland weather can turn visibility into a guessing game. Use signals properly so other drivers know your next move. Courtesy and caution are part of the deal out here.

Most Popular F-Road Routes and Destinations

You’ve made it this far, so you already know the rules, the risks, and why a 4x4 is non-negotiable. Now it’s time for the fun part. These are the F-roads worth your fuel, the ones that actually lead somewhere unforgettable instead of just rattling your bones. Here are the best F Roads in Iceland.

F208 to Landmannalaugar

The F208 is one of the best F-roads in Iceland, stretching roughly 100-105 kilometers (62-65 miles) through the southern Highlands. It links some of the country’s most rugged volcanic landscapes with the geothermal wonderland of Landmannalaugar. This road is split into two very different experiences: the northern section and the southern section.

F208 North

The northern leg, sometimes marked simply as 208, is the easier option. It runs on rough gravel with potholes but avoids the stress of river crossings. In good weather, even a smaller 4WD SUV can make the drive. It is less dramatic in terms of scenery, but it is also far less risky. For many, this section is a safe and practical way to reach Landmannalaugar without too much pressure behind the wheel.

F208 South

The southern stretch is where things get serious. Expect multiple river crossings with depths ranging from 40-60 cm (16-24 in). These crossings demand a solid 4WD and some confidence with river fording. The reward is a drive through black sand deserts, lava fields, and mountains painted in shades that do not look real. It is demanding, but the landscapes are unforgettable.

F26 Through the Highlands (Sprengisandur)

The F26, better known as Sprengisandur, is the giant of Iceland’s Highland network. At roughly 250 kilometers (155 miles), it is the longest and one of the most isolated routes you will find on any Icelandic F-Roads map. The road cuts through the barren middle of the country, wedged between two massive glaciers, Hofsjökull and Vatnajökull. This is wilderness in its rawest form.

There are no gas stations, no accommodation, and no handy cafés along the way. Once you turn onto F26, you are on your own. The terrain is a constant mix of rough gravel, flat desert-like stretches, and rocky sections punctuated by unbridged river crossings. Weather can flip from clear skies to freezing wind and sleet in minutes, so conditions demand respect.

A proper 4×4 with high clearance is mandatory. Smaller cars will not survive the ruts, boulders, or water crossings. Cell service is rare, which makes emergency planning vital. Carry extra fuel, food, water, and warm clothing as if you were heading into an expedition, because that is exactly what this feels like.

F35 (Kjölur Route)

The F35, also called the Kjölur Route, is one of the more forgiving drives you will find on any F-road map of Iceland. Stretching about 168 kilometers (104 miles), it cuts across the Highlands, threading between the massive Langjökull and Hofsjökull glaciers on the Kjölur plateau. It is not an easy road by city standards, but compared to other F-roads, it is considered a milder option.

The terrain is mostly rough gravel with very few river crossings, which makes it a good introduction to the Highlands for drivers who are new to this type of travel. Driving the full route usually takes around 5 to 6 hours if you keep stops short. A proper 4×4 is still legally required, as the road surface and mountain conditions can quickly punish anything smaller.

The F35 is not just about the drive. Along the way, you get access to some of Iceland’s most unique natural sights. Kerlingarfjöll, a rhyolite mountain range glowing with geothermal activity, sits close by, while Hveravellir offers bubbling hot springs in the middle of nowhere. The route often opens earlier in summer than others, making it a popular choice for those looking for Highland wilderness without the full brutality of tougher F-roads.

F249 (Þórsmörk)

The F249 is often ranked among the most exciting and scenic F-Roads in Iceland. The route takes you through dramatic landscapes of glaciers and lava fields, but like most F-Roads, it comes with challenges, including river crossings. The most notorious is the Krossá River, where water levels can change daily. Fed by glacier melt and rainfall upstream, the river can quickly become unpredictable and, at times, dangerous.

F570 (Snaefellsjökull)

F570 is the mountain road that winds around Snæfellsjökull glacier, offering breathtaking views of lava fields, craters, and the rugged Snæfellsnes Peninsula. It’s an adventurous drive that puts you right in the heart of Iceland’s volcanic beauty. But, as with most F-Roads, conditions can be tricky! Snow patches can linger well into summer, and the road is steep and narrow in sections. A proper 4x4 is mandatory, and you should always check conditions before heading out.

F66 (Westfjords)

F66, also called Kollafjarðarheiði, is a mountain pass cutting across the rugged Westfjords. The road takes you over steep hills and through remote valleys where you’ll find raw, untouched Icelandic beauty at every turn. Like most F-Roads, it demands caution: expect rough gravel, steep climbs, and river crossings that can be unpredictable after heavy rain. A 4x4 is essential, and before setting out, always check weather and road conditions. The reward? A dramatic shortcut through one of Iceland’s most isolated and awe-inspiring regions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Iceland’s F-Roads

Here’s your FAQ rewritten with your tone, no em dashes, and trimmed answers under 30 words each:

Is Route 35 in Iceland paved?

Yes, near Gullfoss, it is paved. Once it becomes F35 in the Highlands, expect gravel, rough stretches, and no comfort driving.

What makes Sprengisandur unique?

F26 is the longest, loneliest route. No services, rough gravel, river crossings, and raw wilderness. It is Iceland’s toughest drive for prepared travelers only.

What is the easiest route to Landmannalaugar?

The northern F208. No river crossings, just gravel and potholes. Easier terrain, less stress, and more accessible than the demanding southern approach.

Is it safe to drive solo on F-roads?

Possible, but risky. Remote terrain, no cell signal, and rivers waiting to trap you. Only go alone if fully equipped and experienced.

Can I camp anywhere along an F-road?

No. Wild camping is heavily restricted. Use designated campsites to protect Iceland’s fragile landscapes and avoid fines or trouble.

Do I need a special permit to drive on F-roads?

Nope, you don’t need a special government permit. But you do need the right wheels. Only 4x4 vehicles are legally allowed on F-roads in Iceland, and for good reason! These roads can get rough, with steep climbs, deep ruts, and river crossings. 

What happens if I get stuck in a river?

First, don’t panic (and definitely don’t keep revving the engine; that usually makes things worse). If you rented a camper or 4x4, call the roadside assistance number provided by your rental company. Keep in mind, though, that towing a vehicle out of a river isn’t cheap, and insurance rarely covers water damage. The best advice? Always check the river before crossing, ask locals for tips if you can, and when in doubt, don’t drive through.

Is there mobile coverage on F-roads?

Coverage is hit-or-miss. Around some Highlands routes you might get a decent signal, but many stretches are complete dead zones. That’s why it’s smart to download offline maps, let someone know your route in advance, and carry a GPS or satellite device if you’re going remote. 

Ready to Conquer Iceland’s F-Roads?

F-roads in Iceland are not for the fainthearted, but with the right car and cover, they become the adventure of a lifetime. Our 4×4 fleet is built for this terrain, and our insurance packages give you the armor you need to face gravel, rivers, and the unpredictable Highlands. 

No hidden traps, no nasty surprise bill. Just trust, preparation, and the road ahead. The scenery will blow your mind, but the Highlands do not forgive mistakes. Trust your gut at every river. If it feels unsafe, it probably is. Out here, you do it right or you regret it.