F-roads and 4x4s
Iceland's highland roads are rough gravel tracks, open only in summer and only to 4x4s.
Only in a 4x4
Icelandic law allows only four-wheel-drive cars on F-roads. They're marked with an F before the road number, like F35.
Open in summer only
F-roads usually open from late June to early September, and some open later after a snowy winter. Check road.is for which roads are open before you set off.
Stay on the marked road
Driving off marked roads is illegal in Iceland and carries heavy fines, because tyre tracks scar the moss and soil for decades.
Rivers without bridges
Many F-roads cross unbridged rivers, and the water rises on warm afternoons and after rain. If you're unsure, don't cross, and ask us before your trip what our cars and insurance allow.
Our cars allowed on F-roads
Official sources for roads, weather and safety are on our useful links page.
Useful links