Only the most adventurous among us hear and answer the call of Iceland’s Highlands. This largely untouched, mysterious, and breathtaking part of the country is one of Iceland’s best-kept secrets. The rougher terrain and more changeable weather conditions mean they aren't for the faint-hearted: if you can make it here, you can make it anywhere!
There’s nothing like visiting this remote area away from the more beaten track. Escape up into the mountains for spectacular views, amazing rhyolite scenery, and otherworldly hiking and trekking routes. Make your trip to Iceland unforgettable by planning a road trip to the Highlands.
We’ve compiled a guide with everything you need to know about the Highlands of Iceland. Let’s dive in!
What Are Iceland’s Highlands?
Despite covering a large area of the country, some 40,000 square kilometers to be exact, you may never have heard of the Highlands. The Highlands are a mountainous and largely inaccessible area within the center of Iceland. What they lack in terms of settlements and wildlife, you’ll find it makes up for in sheer volcanic power: steep mountain ridges, canyons, waterfalls, lava fields, and so much more.
Where Are The Highlands?
The Highlands are in the middle of the island. As they cover such a large area, the region is actually accessible from all areas of the country, though not via main roads.
Due to the more difficult terrain, you won’t find the same conditions as on Route 1. Dirt tracks and mountain roads, known as F-Roads, will be your only way in and out of the Highlands.
How To Get To The Highlands From Reykjavík
As mentioned above, your route into the Highland region from the capital will involve a combination of the Ring Road (Route 1) and a number of F-Roads, depending on exactly where you want to end up. Here are a few popular Highland locations to aim for, as well as the F-Road you’ll need to take.
- Landmannalaugar: Take the F225 from the west.
- Kerlingarfjöll: F35 from the south.
- Þórsmörk: Take the F249 (often referred to as one of the most challenging roads in Iceland)
Guide To Visiting The Highlands
Here are a few tips for the best way, time, and routes to visit The Highlands of Iceland.
Best Time To Visit Iceland’s Highlands
The only time that the Highlands are accessible is during the summer months, but the exact dates are entirely weather dependent. What this means is that the F-Roads are only open when the weather conditions dictate - you can find a full breakdown of opening times on the official F-Road website, but this is usually between mid-June and August. Outside of these months, F-Roads are closed, and you should not attempt to explore the Highlands in any vehicle.
What Are Highland F-Roads in Iceland?
The F-Roads of Iceland are simply the roads that you’ll find in the Highlands. This means that the names of roads begin with “F”, such as the more famous F249 and F208 routes. Find more information in our dedicated guide to F-Roads, such as the most popular ones and the attractions you’ll see along each one.
Top Tips For Visiting
Planning your visit and not sure if you’re prepared? Here are a few top tips to note before you set off on your bracing adventure into the Highlands.
- A 4x4 is essential. You won’t be able to traverse the more uneven terrain without full power, not to mention that 4WD is a legal requirement on F-Roads.
- Don’t go off-road. While the roads are rocky, never attempt to travel off-road anywhere in Iceland, let alone in this most remote part of Iceland.
- Avoid river crossings where you can. No matter how many blogs you’ve read on the subject of crossing rivers in your 4x4, we strongly advise against attempting a crossing to avoid danger and damage to your rental vehicle.
- Tell someone about your travel plans. Whether it's friends or family nearby, or if it's via Safe Travel, inform someone of your plans and expected arrival times should you need assistance on your journey.
Iceland’s Highlands FAQs
Find some commonly asked questions about Iceland’s Highlands below.
Can You Visit the Highlands During Winter?
No, the Highland F-Roads are closed in Winter due to poor weather conditions, making them impassable. Therefore, exploring the Highlands outside of the height of Summer in Iceland is not possible.
How Much Of Iceland Do The Highlands Cover?
Iceland’s Highlands cover around 40% of the country’s area, which is approximately 40,000 square kilometers or 15,500 square miles.
Does Anyone Live in the Highlands?
The Highlands of Iceland are largely uninhabitable due to the fierce weather conditions outside of summer, and sometimes even during! You won’t come across any settlements while traveling on F-Roads, which is why it’s important to be prepared and carry everything you may need with you on your trip to the Highlands.
Should I Self-Drive or Book a Guided Tour to the Highlands?
Your choice between a self-drive and a guided tour is entirely down to personal preference. If you are a keen driver and would be comfortable tackling the more severe F-Roads and mountain tracks, then hiring a 4x4 is a great way to explore the more rugged areas of the country. This may also be the more affordable option. However, if you would prefer to explore to your heart’s content without the stress of handling the terrain on 4 wheels, a guided tour would be the best bet.
Ready to go? Find your perfect 4WD rental car and start planning your Highland adventure for next summer with Reykjavík Rent a Car.