Getting Around Iceland

Iceland is a great road trip destination, offering travelers scenic drives throughout the country. Self-drive is the recommended transportation method for the summer season when winter road conditions and daylight are not a concern (roughly mid-April until November).

The most popular drives are the Ring Road along Route 1 (typically 7-10 days around the country), the South Coast to Vik and Jokusarlon Lagoon (2-3 days depending on stops and detours) and the Golden Circle Loop (possible as a day trip from Reykjavik; better to spend the night in the area to venture away from only the most visited sights).

While it is possible to drive in winter as well, some higher passes can be closed temporarily due to weather and high winds, with a few detours closed for the season. Many travelers prefer to join small group tours (typically up to 18 max) during this time and to focus the trip in the south and west of the country where daylight is a bit longer.

Reykjavik domestic airport offers domestic flights to the Westfjords, North, and East of the country (separate from Keflavik International airport in Reykjavik). Travelers short on time can take advantage of short, scenic flights and a one-way drive back to Reykjavik, as most sights are not too far off of Route 1. 

The highlands (Thorsmork, Landmannalaugar, and others) are accessible only by 4x4 vehicles along unpaved F-roads, and some roads require river crossings only passable by modified super jeeps. A few companies offer bus transfers into these regions, either as a long day trip or an overnight stop. Private or six-person super-jeep trips can take you to the most remote parts of the country.