What to Do When Roads Close in Iceland: A Traveller’s Plan B Guide

This guide is based on official Icelandic road authority guidance, local driving expertise, and decades of supporting travellers on Iceland’s roads.

Driving in Iceland is one of the great joys of travel. Wide open landscapes, quiet roads, and the freedom to explore at your own pace are what make a self-drive holiday here so special. But Iceland is also wonderfully wild — and sometimes that means roads close.

If you’re visiting Iceland and find your route unexpectedly blocked, take a breath. Road closures are a normal part of Icelandic travel life, and with the right mindset and tools, they don’t have to derail your adventure.

This guide is here to reassure, inform, and empower you. We’ll show you how to respond calmly, reroute safely, understand official road information, and decide when it’s best to wait things out or change regions altogether — all while travelling with confidence and care.

At Höldur Car Rental, we’ve been helping travellers navigate Iceland’s roads since 1966.

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Why Roads Close in Iceland (And Why It’s Normal)

Road closures in Iceland are issued by the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration (IRCA) in coordination with weather and emergency authorities.

Road closures in Iceland can sound alarming if you’re not used to them. In reality, they’re a safety-first decision made to protect travellers, locals, and emergency services.

Common reasons for road closures include:

• Weather conditions – Snowstorms, high winds, heavy rain, or icy surfaces

• Natural events – Volcanic activity, glacial flooding (jökulhlaup), landslides

• Seasonal access – Highland (F-roads) close outside summer

• Maintenance and repairs – Essential upkeep in remote areas

Closures can be short-lived or last several days, depending on conditions. The key thing to remember: closures are proactive, not punitive. They exist so you can travel safely.

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First Things First: Stay Calm and Stay Put

If you discover a road closure while driving in Iceland, your first decision matters.

Do not attempt to drive past a closure. Road barriers, signs, and digital alerts are there for a reason. Driving on a closed road can be dangerous, damage the environment, and may invalidate your insurance.

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How to Check Road Conditions in Iceland (Properly)

Understanding Umferdin.is (Official Iceland Road Conditions)

The most reliable source for road conditions in Iceland is umferdin.is/en, operated by the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration.

Here’s how to read it like a local:

• Green roads – Open and generally passable

• Yellow roads – Difficult conditions; caution advised

• Blue roads - Slippery road surface covered with hard ice or snow.

• Red roads – Closed. Do not drive here

• Grey roads – No winter service or impassable

Click on a road to see:

• Surface conditions (snow, ice, gravel, wet)

• Weather warnings

• Closure reasons and expected updates

Tip: Conditions can change quickly. Refresh the map regularly, especially in winter or shoulder seasons.

Helpful Companion Tools (Trusted Icelandic Sources)

• vedur.is – Icelandic weather forecasts

• SafeTravel.is – Travel alerts and safety advice

• 112 Iceland app – Emergency location sharing and alerts

Using these together gives you a full picture, not just a single snapshot.

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Plan B Routes: How to Reroute Safely on a Self-Drive Trip in Iceland

When a road closes, it doesn’t mean your trip is over — it means your route needs a rethink.

Smart Rerouting Tips

• Stick to main roads where possible

• Avoid shortcuts through unfamiliar gravel roads

• Factor in daylight hours, especially in winter

• Choose towns or service areas as interim stops

Sometimes a detour leads to:

• A quieter waterfall

• A charming village café

• A night under unexpectedly clear skies

Flexibility is one of the hidden joys of self-drive travel in Iceland.

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When It’s Better to Wait — And When to Change Regions

Not every closure requires a big change of plan. Some are temporary.

Consider Waiting If:

• The closure is weather-related and short-term

• You’re already near accommodation

• Conditions are forecast to improve within hours

Consider Changing Regions If:

• Multiple roads are closed in one area

• Weather warnings are escalating

• You’d need to backtrack long distances repeatedly

Iceland rewards travellers who adapt rather than push on.

 

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Seasonal Road Closures: What Self-Drive Visitors Should Know When Renting a Car in Iceland

Winter (October–April)

• Expect snow, ice, and wind-related closures

• Coastal and mountain roads are more exposed

• Flexibility is essential

Summer (June–September)

• Highland F-roads open gradually

• River levels affect accessibility

• Always check road status daily

No matter the season, renting a car in Iceland means travelling with nature, not against it.

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What Not to Do During a Road Closure

Even confident drivers can make risky decisions when plans change.

Avoid:

• Driving around barriers

• Trusting only Google Maps

• Pushing on in poor visibility

• Ignoring local advice

The safest choice is almost always the simplest one.

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How Höldur Supports You When Roads Close in Iceland

When you rent a car in Iceland with Höldur, you’re never on your own.

We support your journey with:

• Local expertise from a team that knows Iceland’s roads

• Guidance on seasonal driving conditions

• Reliable, well-maintained vehicles

• Friendly advice when plans need adjusting

Our goal is simple: help you explore Iceland safely, confidently, and responsibly.

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A Different Kind of Icelandic Adventure

Some of the best travel memories begin with an unexpected change of plan.

A closed road might mean:

• Spending an extra night somewhere magical

• Discovering a region you hadn’t considered

• Slowing down and seeing Iceland more deeply

That’s not a setback. That’s Iceland being Iceland.

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Roads Closed in Iceland – What Self-Drive Travellers Ask

What should I do if roads close during my self-drive trip in Iceland?

Check umferdin.is, stop safely, and adjust your route. Never drive on closed roads.

Are road closures common when driving in Iceland?

Yes, especially in winter and shoulder seasons. They are a normal safety measure.

Can I drive around road closure signs in Iceland?

No. Driving on closed roads is unsafe and may void your car rental insurance.

How do I know if a road is safe to drive in Iceland?

Use umferdin.is and vedur.is together for the most accurate information.

Should I cancel my self-drive holiday if roads are closed?

Usually not. Most closures are temporary or regional.

Do rental cars in Iceland come with guidance on road conditions?

Reputable companies like Höldur-Europcar provide local advice and support.

Is winter driving in Iceland safe for tourists?

Yes, with preparation, flexibility, and the right vehicle.

What happens if I get stuck due to road closures in Iceland?

Stay put, keep warm, and follow official guidance. Avoid unnecessary driving.

Are F-roads always closed when roads close in Iceland?

F-roads close seasonally and during bad conditions. Check daily.

Does Höldur help travellers adjust plans during road closures?

Yes. Our team is here to help you travel safely and confidently.

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Final Thoughts: Travel with Confidence, Not Fear

Iceland’s changing conditions are part of what make it extraordinary. When you travel prepared — with reliable information, a flexible plan, and a trusted car rental partner — road closures become a pause, not a problem.

Wherever the road leads, we’re with you every kilometre of the way.

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