How to Plan a 3-Day Self-Drive Adventure in Iceland’s Highlands

Iceland’s Highlands offer some of the most dramatic and untouched landscapes on the planet. Deep in the interior of the country, you will find neon-green mountains, steaming geothermal vents, sweeping black sand deserts, and massive glaciers. Navigating this rugged terrain requires careful planning, the right vehicle, and a deep respect for unpredictable natural elements.

This guide provides a comprehensive three-day self-drive itinerary to help you experience the best of the Highlands safely. We will cover essential F-road driving techniques, vital safety protocols, and a day-by-day plan to maximize your time in this extraordinary wilderness. By the end of this post, you will know exactly how to prepare for your journey, which routes to take, and how to protect both yourself and Iceland’s fragile environment.

Essential F-Road Tips for Safe Driving

Before entering the Highlands, you must understand the rules of the road. F-roads are unpaved, unmaintained mountain tracks that often include loose gravel, blind crests, and unbridged river crossings. Proper preparation ensures you return safely from your adventure.

Choose the Right 4x4 Vehicle

You must drive a designated 4x4 vehicle to legally enter Icelandic F-roads. A standard two-wheel-drive car will not survive the rugged terrain, and driving one on these routes invalidates your rental insurance. For routes with river crossings, we highly recommend renting a larger 4x4 SUV with high ground clearance. Ensure your rental agreement covers Highland driving, and always inspect your spare tire before leaving town.

Understand the Rules and Road Conditions

Highland roads open only during the short summer season, typically from late June to early September. Before setting out each morning, check the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration website (road.is) for real-time closures and conditions. You must also monitor safetravel.is for weather alerts. Remember that off-road driving is strictly illegal in Iceland. Leaving the marked tracks causes irreversible damage to the fragile sub-Arctic vegetation and results in massive fines. Read all about F-roads here Understanding Iceland’s F- Roads: What You Need to Know Before You Go.

Master River Crossings

Many F-roads feature unbridged rivers that fluctuate in depth throughout the day. Glacial rivers usually swell in the late afternoon as the sun melts the ice, making them much deeper than they were in the morning. Never cross a river if you feel unsure about its depth or current. If the water looks completely still, it is likely too deep. Engage your four-wheel drive, put the vehicle in a low gear, and drive slowly but steadily diagonally downstream. Do not stop in the middle of the river, and never change gears while in the water. Learn more about river crossing in our guide A Beginner's Guide to River Crossings in Iceland.

Your 3-Day Highlands Itinerary

This three-day route introduces you to the spectacular southern and central Highlands. It requires an early start from Reykjavik or Selfoss and assumes you are driving a robust 4x4 vehicle.

Day 1: The Gateway to the Highlands

Your adventure begins with a drive to Landmannalaugar, a region famous for its rhyolite mountains that display vivid streaks of red, pink, green, and golden yellow.

Leave the capital area early and head south toward Route 26. From there, you will transition onto F208 (Fjallabaksleið nyrðri), driving toward Landmannalaugar. This specific route approaches the area from the north and features unpaved gravel roads but no major river crossings, making it a great introduction to Highland driving. The landscape transforms quickly from green pastures to a desolate, ash-covered wilderness.

Arrive at the Landmannalaugar base camp by late morning. Stop at the warden’s hut to ask about trail conditions, then embark on a hike. The Bláhnúkur (Blue Peak) trail offers an excellent two-to-three-hour trek. The path climbs steeply up a dark blue-black volcano, rewarding you with panoramic views of the colorful surrounding valleys and sweeping lava fields.

After your hike, change into your swimsuit and relax in the natural geothermal hot spring located right next to the base camp. The water mixes naturally with a cold stream, creating the perfect temperature for soaking tired muscles. Plan to camp here for the night or book a bed in the mountain hut well in advance, as accommodations fill up months ahead of time.

Day 2: The Heart of the Wilderness

On your second day, you will traverse the barren interior on your way to the Hveravellir geothermal area. This drive takes you along the famous Kjölur route (Route 35), passing between the massive Langjökull and Hofsjökull glaciers.

Leave Landmannalaugar early and retrace your steps back to Route 26, eventually connecting to Route 35 heading north. The Kjölur route is rough and heavily corrugated, so take your time and adjust your speed to the road conditions. The landscape here is stark and awe-inspiring, dominated by endless expanses of grey stones and distant glacial ice caps.

Stop at Hvítárvatn, a stunning glacial lake located just off the main track. You can stretch your legs here and admire the icebergs breaking off the Langjökull glacier. Keep driving north until you reach Hveravellir, a geothermal oasis situated right on the Kjölur route.

Spend the afternoon exploring the walking paths that wind through bubbling mud pools, smoking fumaroles, and brightly colored mineral deposits. Hveravellir also features a historic hot spring that outlaws used centuries ago. Enjoy a relaxing soak under the midnight sun. You can spend the night at the Hveravellir campsite or the on-site lodge.

Day 3: Volcanic Craters and Glacial Views

Your final day in the Highlands focuses on the spectacular Kerlingarfjöll mountain range before returning to civilization.

Drive south from Hveravellir on Route 35 for about an hour, then turn onto the short F347 track leading to Kerlingarfjöll. This area features tall, steep mountains composed of red volcanic rock, contrasting sharply with patches of white snow and bright green moss.

Drive up to the Hveradalir geothermal area parking lot. From here, you enter an otherworldly landscape of steaming vents hidden deep within steep ravines. Spend a few hours hiking the network of trails. The ground here is hot, and the clay can be very slippery, so stay strictly on the marked wooden paths for your safety and to protect the environment.

After completing your hike, grab a warm meal at the Kerlingarfjöll Highland Resort. Once you are rested, begin the drive back south along Route 35. You will eventually transition back to paved roads, passing the famous Gullfoss waterfall. This marks your return to the Golden Circle and the end of your Highland expedition. Proceed back to Reykjavik to return your rental vehicle and rest.

Packing and Preparation Checklist

Thorough preparation prevents emergencies in this remote region. You will not find supermarkets, repair shops, or reliable cell service in the deep Highlands.

Always carry emergency supplies in your vehicle. Pack a physical map of Iceland, as GPS systems often fail or lead drivers astray on unmarked tracks. Bring plenty of drinking water and enough food to last an extra 24 hours in case of a breakdown. We also recommend carrying a first-aid kit, a tow rope, and a blanket.

Dress in layers. Highland weather changes rapidly, bringing bright sunshine, heavy rain, and fierce winds all within the same afternoon. Pack thermal base layers, a waterproof and windproof outer shell, sturdy hiking boots with excellent grip, and a warm hat and gloves. Finally, always fill your gas tank to the brim before leaving the paved highway, as fuel stations do not exist on F-roads.

Frequently Asked Questions

When are the F-roads in Iceland open?

F-roads typically open between late June and early July, depending on the speed of the spring snowmelt. They usually close again in September following the first heavy snowfalls. You must check road.is for exact opening dates, as they change every year based on actual weather conditions.

Can I drive a 2WD car on F-roads?

No. It is illegal and dangerous to drive a two-wheel-drive vehicle on any road marked with an "F" in Iceland. Your rental car insurance will become completely void. You must rent a 4x4 vehicle.

Are there gas stations in the Highlands?

No, there are zero fuel stations located on the F-roads. You must fill your tank completely at the last available town before entering the Highlands. If your route is exceptionally long, plan your exit strategy carefully to ensure you reach a fuel pump before running out.

What should I do if I get stuck in a river?

Do not panic. Keep the engine running if possible to prevent water from entering the exhaust pipe. Call the emergency number (112) immediately. If the engine dies, do not attempt to restart it, as this can destroy the motor. Wait for professional rescue and do not attempt to wade through fast-moving glacial water.

Will my cell phone work in the Highlands?

Cellular coverage is highly unreliable and frequently non-existent in the deep Highlands. Do not rely solely on your phone for navigation or emergencies. We recommend downloading offline maps and carrying a physical map. You can also rent a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) from safetravel.is for emergency use.

What is the speed limit on F-roads?

The general speed limit on unpaved gravel roads is 80 km/h (50 mph). However, on rough F-roads, you will rarely drive faster than 30 to 50 km/h due to potholes, sharp rocks, and blind curves. Always drive according to the immediate conditions rather than the posted limit.

Can I camp anywhere I want in the Highlands?

No. Wild camping is strictly prohibited across Iceland, especially in the fragile Highlands ecosystem. You must pitch your tent or park your campervan only at designated campsites, such as those at Landmannalaugar, Hveravellir, or Kerlingarfjöll.

 

Plan Your Highland Adventure Today

Driving through Iceland’s Highlands provides an unmatched sense of freedom and discovery. By choosing a reliable 4x4 rental, respecting the natural environment, and monitoring daily road conditions, you guarantee a safe and awe-inspiring journey. Use this three-day itinerary to structure your trip, but remain flexible enough to adapt to Iceland's dynamic weather.

Equip yourself with the right vehicle and the right knowledge. Visit our booking page to explore our fleet of Highland-ready 4x4 SUVs and secure your vehicle for the upcoming summer season. Ensure your Icelandic adventure is built on a foundation of safety, quality, and expert preparation.

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