Eco-Friendly Road Trips in Iceland: Sustainable Travel Tips

From glacial lagoons to volcanic highlands, Iceland offers one of the most breathtaking landscapes on Earth — and there's no better way to see it all than by road. But how can you explore this land of fire and ice without leaving a heavy footprint?

At Höldur Car Rental, we believe unforgettable adventures should go hand-in-hand with environmental responsibility. That’s why we’re proud to offer Iceland’s largest fleet of electric vehicles and to be the first car rental company in the country certified under the ISO 14001 environmental standard.

If you're planning a self-drive holiday and want to keep things green, here’s your go-to guide for eco-friendly road trips in Iceland.

Also read our guide: Driving Electric Cars and Hybrids in Iceland.

 

Why Choose an Eco-Friendly Road Trip in Iceland?

Sustainable travel isn’t just a trend — it’s a responsibility, especially in a country where nature takes centre stage. Driving an electric vehicle (EV) or hybrid from Höldur means you can:

• Reduce emissions while enjoying the freedom of the open road

• Access a growing network of charging stations across the country

• Support local companies committed to protecting Iceland’s unique ecosystems

Whether you're navigating the Ring Road, chasing the northern lights, or exploring Iceland’s hidden corners, every kilometre in an eco-conscious car is a step toward preserving this magical island.

Höldur’s Commitment to Sustainability

Sustainability is not just a marketing buzzword for us — it's a core principle that shapes every part of our business.

ISO 14001 Certified: We’re proud to be Iceland’s first car rental company to receive ISO 14001 environmental certification, proving our long-term dedication to environmental management and minimising our ecological impact.

Extensive EV Fleet: From compact city cars to SUVs ready for Iceland’s more rugged terrain, our electric and hybrid options include Volkswagen, Tesla, Polestar, and more.

Eco-Efficient Operations: From vehicle maintenance to office practices, every part of our operation is reviewed to ensure it's as green as possible.

Read more about our Sustainability Policy

 

Tips for a Sustainable Road Trip in Iceland

Ready to drive responsibly? Here’s how to maximise your trip while minimising your impact.

1. Choose the Right Vehicle

Opt for an electric or hybrid car that matches your itinerary. Höldur offers a wide range of EVs ideal for both city drives and countryside adventures.

Browse our EV fleet here

2. Plan Charging Stops in Advance

Use apps like PlugShare or ON Power to locate EV charging stations across the country. Iceland’s main roads are well-equipped, especially the Ring Road.

3. Travel Light

The lighter your load, the less energy your vehicle uses. Pack smart and avoid overloading your car with unnecessary gear.

4. Stick to Marked Roads

Driving off-road is not only illegal in Iceland — it’s extremely damaging to fragile mosses and soil. Always follow designated routes. Learn all about driving in Iceland here.

5. Support Eco-Friendly Businesses

Eat at restaurants that use local ingredients, book eco-certified accommodation, and shop for handmade Icelandic goods.

6. Respect Local Wildlife

Keep your distance from animals, don’t feed them, and avoid making noise near nesting areas.

7. Offset Your Trip

We offer our customers the opportunity to reduce the environmental impact of their rental car use through a tree-planting initiative in partnership with Kolviður – the Iceland Carbon Fund. Here’s how it works:

• During the online booking process or when returning your rental car, you can purchase one or more trees.
• Each tree costs an amount based on Kolviður’s official pricelist.
• One tree offsets 0.1 ton of CO2 emissions.

 

This initiative reflects our commitment to environmental responsibility and provides you with a simple way to contribute to a more sustainable future. For more details, feel free to reach out to our team.

 

Scenic Eco Road Trip Itinerary (5 Days)

 

Day 1: Reykjavík to Borgarnes

• Pick up your EV in Skútuvogur 8, Reykjavík

• Visit the Settlement Centre and explore geothermal hot springs

• Stay at a local guesthouse with a green certificate

Day 2: Snæfellsnes Peninsula

• Drive to Snæfellsjökull National Park

• Take photos of Kirkjufell and black sand beaches

• Charge overnight in Stykkishólmur

Day 3: Golden Circle

• Explore Thingvellir, Geysir and Gullfoss

• Stop for lunch at Friðheimar, a sustainable tomato farm

• Stay in eco-lodging near Selfoss

Day 4: South Coast

• Visit Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss

• Drive past Eyjafjallajökull

• Charge in Vik

Day 5: Return to Reykjavík

• Drop off your car at Holdur car rental in Skútuvogur 8

• Enjoy a local meal at a sustainable restaurant in the city centre

FAQs: Eco-Friendly Car Travel in Iceland

Can I rent an electric vehicle from Keflavík Airport?

Yes! Höldur offers electric and hybrid vehicle rentals directly from Keflavík International Airport for maximum convenience. You’ll find our car rental desk conveniently located in the arrivals hall, just to the left after clearing Customs. Your vehicle will be ready for you in the airport car park, conveniently situated right outside the terminal.

Are there enough charging stations in Iceland for a full road trip?

Absolutely. The EV infrastructure is well-developed, especially along popular routes like the Ring Road.

What EV brands does Höldur offer?

We provide top-tier electric vehicles from Volkswagen, Tesla, Polestar, Toyota, and others.

Is renting an EV more expensive?

EV rental costs are competitive — and you'll save money on fuel. Höldur also offers seasonal rates.

What’s included in an EV rental?

Our EV rentals include charging cables, maps of Iceland's charging stations, and 24/7 support.

How far can I drive on one charge?

It depends on the vehicle model, but most EVs in our fleet offer 250–400 km per charge, perfect for daily segments of your Iceland journey.

Can I drive an EV on Iceland’s F-roads?

No, only 4x4 vehicles are permitted on F-roads. Check your route and vehicle requirements beforehand.

What are the environmental benefits of choosing an EV in Iceland?

Electric vehicles produce zero emissions during travel, and Iceland’s electricity comes almost entirely from renewable sources like geothermal and hydro power.

Is it difficult to charge an EV in winter?

Not at all. Just be sure to plan ahead — most towns and attractions have reliable winter-ready charging infrastructure.
Learn about Winter Driving

Why should I choose Höldur over other rental companies?

With over 50 years of local expertise and a deep commitment to sustainability, Höldur is more than a rental — we’re your trusted travel companion in Iceland.

Start Your Eco Adventure Today

Whether you're discovering Iceland for the first time or returning for a new season of wonder, make your journey count — for yourself and for the planet. Höldur’s sustainable fleet and expert service will help you explore responsibly, comfortably, and confidently.

• Explore our electric vehicles
  
• Read more about our environmental policy
• Book your eco-friendly ride now