Iceland

Natural attractions

Hazards at natural attractions rarely have warning signs or safety barriers. Stay on marked paths and use common sense.

If you visit geysers, take care. The hot steam and water may cause injuries. Take extra care on windy days.

Driving permit

You need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Iceland. Get this before you leave Australia. An IDP does not replace the requirement for a regular driver’s license. You must carry a valid Australian driver’s license with your IDP at all times when driving in Iceland.

Road travel

Roads are narrow and winding. Speed limits are low.

Driving conditions can be hazardous. Roads can be impassable in winter when there’s less daylight. 

The weather and river levels can change quickly. Plan ahead.

The northern lights can distract drivers, making them lose control or stop without warning. This can create a hazard for other road users.

If you want to drive, be aware that authorities:

• impose heavy fines for speeding
• strictly enforce drink driving laws with severe penalties
• strictly control off-road driving

Always keep your headlights on low beam.

You need winter tyres from around 1 November to 14 April. The dates may vary each year. Check with the Icelandic Transport Authority for more information.

Highland driving

Many highland tracks are only open for a short part of the summer.

If you plan to drive to the highland or other remote regions, check with the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration.

Call (+354) 522 1000 for updates on:

• road hazards
• weather conditions
• off-road driving conditions

When driving through remote regions, take special care:

• on gravel
• on loose surfaces
• at night

More information:

Motorcycles

Check if your travel insurance policy covers you when riding a motorbike or quad bike.

Always wear a helmet.

Taxis

A range of authorised taxi and limousine services are available. You can book these through your hotel.

Public transport

Public transport options are limited outside Reykjavik.

Straeto publishes bus timetables.

More information:

Sea travel

Several international cruise lines stop over in Iceland.

More information:

Air travel

DFAT doesn’t provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check Iceland’s air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

More information:

Read the original advice at SmartTraveller.gov.au by Australian Government