Iceland Highlands: A Guide to the Untamed Interior

Iceland's Highlands: The Untamed Interior

The Highlands of Iceland cover roughly 40% of the country's landmass, yet remain one of the least-visited regions. Accessible only during summer months (typically late June to early September), this vast interior demands preparation, but rewards with landscapes found nowhere else on Earth. If you're still deciding when to come, our month-by-month guide to visiting Iceland covers seasonal access in detail.

Getting There: F-Roads and Access

The Highlands are reached exclusively via F-roads (fjallvegir), which require a 4x4 vehicle. Rental agreements for standard cars explicitly prohibit F-road travel, and for good reason: river crossings, loose gravel, and unmarked terrain make these routes genuinely challenging. Read our complete guide to renting a car in Iceland before booking, especially if you're considering a Highland-capable vehicle.

Key access roads include:

  • F26 (Sprengisandur): The longest Highland route, crossing the desert between Vatnajökull and Hofsjökull
  • F35 (Kjalvegur): The most popular route, connecting Gullfoss to Blönduós
  • F208: Access to Landmannalaugar from the south
  • F88: The route to Askja caldera

Landmannalaugar

The rhyolite mountains of Landmannalaugar are arguably Iceland's most photographed Highland destination. The multicoloured peaks shift between rust, emerald, and obsidian depending on mineral content and light conditions. For photography tips, see our top photography spots in Iceland.

What to do:

  • Hike the Laugahraun lava field loop (1.5 hours)
  • Start the famous Laugavegur Trail to Þórsmörk (4 days, 55 km). Our best hiking trails guide covers this route in detail
  • Soak in the natural geothermal pool at the campsite. For more bathing options, see our hot springs guide

Askja and Víti

The Askja caldera sits in the Dyngjufjöll mountains, a full day's drive from the nearest town. The turquoise Víti crater lake sits within the larger Askja caldera, and you can swim in it during calm conditions. The surrounding area is one of Iceland's most impressive examples of volcanic and geothermal activity.

Þórsmörk (Thorsmork)

Sheltered between three glaciers, Þórsmörk is a lush valley that feels entirely out of place in Iceland's otherwise stark interior. Multiple river crossings on the approach road mean this is exclusively super-jeep or bus territory. The glaciers framing the valley, including Mýrdalsjökull, are part of the same system that feeds Vatnajökull.

When to Visit

  • Late June: Roads begin opening, snow patches remain
  • July to August: Peak access, longest daylight, warmest temperatures. Perfect timing to experience the midnight sun
  • Early September: Roads begin closing, autumn colours appear

Safety and Preparation

  • Always register your travel plan at safetravel.is
  • Carry extra fuel, food, and warm layers. Our packing checklist covers Highland essentials
  • Check road conditions daily at road.is
  • Mobile coverage is extremely limited; carry a satellite communicator
  • If you're driving in winter, the Highlands are completely inaccessible

Planning a Highland trip? Our Iceland Blueprint covers F-road strategy, river crossing techniques, and day-by-day route planning for the interior.