The Ultimate Guide to the Iceland Highlands

The highlands in Iceland are no joke. They're wild, remote, and absolutely stunning, but only if you come prepared. A campervan gives you the freedom to explore, but not every road is camper-friendly. Some require serious driving skills (and nerves of steel).

Can you rent a campervan in Iceland to drive on F-roads? Where exactly are the highlands? What should you expect? This guide lays it out, minus the sugarcoating. The highlands are not a casual Sunday drive. They are rough, unpredictable, and demand respect. 

Get it right, and you will have the road trip of a lifetime. Get it wrong, and you might regret it.

What Are the Icelandic Highlands?

The highlands of Iceland are where nature cranked up the drama. Covering 40% of the country (42,000 km²), this rugged wilderness sits at 300 to 400 meters (985 to 1,300 feet) above sea level. No towns, no streetlights, and definitely no drive-thrus. Just endless lava fields, glacial valleys, and steaming hot springs that look straight out of another world.

Once just dusty horseback trails, many of Iceland's Highland roads were later opened to vehicles. The roads are rough, the conditions unpredictable, and a little caution goes a long way. But for those willing to go there, the rewards are endless. Landmannalaugar, Þórsmörk, and Vatnajökull are just a few of the jaw-dropping places waiting in the highlands (these places feel like something straight out of another world). 

The region is split into Central, South, Northeast, and Northwest, each with its own surprises. Some areas are dominated by volcanoes (the kind that shaped Iceland's wild landscape), while others hide geothermal pools (a well-earned soak after a long day of driving).

Where are The Highlands in Iceland?

The Icelandic Highlands sit in the heart of the country. Getting there means tackling F-roads (which might as well stand for 'Forget regular cars'). These rough, unpaved tracks cut through the central highlands and require a 4x4 vehicle. 

What Campervans Do We Recommend You Take to the Highlands in Iceland?

Not all campervans can handle F-roads. Taking the wrong one is a fast track to getting stuck in a river and calling for help. You need a 4x4 camper with good clearance, strong traction, and enough space for your gear. Here are three solid choices for different budgets.

Budget Choice: Dacia Duster or Suzuki Jimny 4x4 Roof Tent

Perfect for travelers who want to explore the Icelandic Highlands without draining their wallets. Small but tough, these 4x4s handle F-roads while keeping fuel costs low.

• Seats: 4-5 people

• Sleeps: 2 (roof tent)

• Transmission: Manual

• Fuel: Gasoline

• Storage: Fits 3 suitcases

• Extras: Optional kitchen box, fuel can, and road assistance

• Best for: Budget-friendly off-roading with basic camping

Mid-Range Pick: Subaru Forester or Jeep Renegade 4x4

A great mix of comfort and off-road capability. If you want a bit more space and an automatic transmission, this is a solid choice.

• Seats: 5 people

• Sleeps: 2

• Transmission: Automatic

• Fuel: Gasoline

• Storage: Fits 3 suitcases

• Extras: Road assistance, fuel discount card, optional kitchen box

• Best for: Travelers who want a smooth ride without worrying about shifting gears

Best for Comfort: Mercedes Campstar 4x4 or VW Ocean

This is for those who want a highland adventure with a touch of luxury. More space, better amenities, and extra comfort.

• Seats: 4 people

• Sleeps: 3-4 (2 double beds)

• Transmission: Automatic

• Fuel: Diesel

• Features: Built-in sink, refrigerator, water tank, and heating system

• Extras: Optional bed linens, kitchen set, and camping gear

• F-Road Limitations: Allowed only on Landmannalaugar & Kjölur F-roads

• Best for: Travelers who want comfort but still want to tackle parts of the highlands

Ready to hit the road? Book your campervan in Iceland now, or reach out with any questions. We are always ready to help you plan your next adventure!

Must-Visit Places in Iceland's Highlands

Now that we have most of the nitty gritty covered (or at least a few essentials) let's talk about the fun part: where to go.

Landmannalaugar – The Highlands' Colorful Gem

Tucked deep in the highlands of Iceland, Landmannalaugar looks like nature got a little too enthusiastic with a paintbrush. The rhyolite mountains glow in shades of red, orange, and gold, shifting colors depending on the light (or maybe just to mess with your camera settings). It is wild, remote, and nothing like the rest of the country.

Love hiking? Good, because the Laugavegur trail kicks off here, winding through lava fields and steaming valleys. It is long, rugged, and guaranteed to make your legs hate you. Not into hiking? No worries. 

The geothermal hot springs are perfect for doing absolutely nothing.

Getting here is half the fun. The F208 road is rough, the drive is slow, and you will feel every bump. But once you step out of the camper, all of that disappears. Worth it? Absolutely.

Þórsmörk – A Camper's Paradise Between Glaciers

Thorsmork Nature Reserve is where Iceland decides to stop being all fire and brimstone and actually grow something green. Nestled between towering glaciers and rugged ridges, this valley is easily one of the best places to visit the highlands. Moss-covered hills, twisting rivers, and hiking trails in every direction make it feel like you have stepped into a fantasy novel.

The hikes? Gorgeous but brutal. Some are easy; others will have your legs filing a formal complaint. Either way, the views are worth every step. The real challenge, though, is getting here. The F249 road is a mess, and the Krossá River does not care how expensive your rental car is. Proper 4x4 and off-road driving skills are required.

If you make it, Þórsmörk rewards you with some of Iceland's best scenery. If you do not? Well, there is always Google Images.

Askja and Víti Crater – A Remote Volcanic Wonderland

Deep in Iceland's Highlands, where the landscape starts looking like something NASA might be interested in, you will find Askja. This volcanic caldera holds Öskjuvatn Lake, a deep blue pool surrounded by an eerie, barren world (the kind astronauts literally trained on).

Then there is Víti crater, which translates to 'Hell,' though it looks more like heaven. Its geothermal waters shimmer in shades of turquoise, and yes, you can swim in it (if you are okay with the whole 'bathing in an active volcanic crater' thing.)

Getting here is where the fun really begins. The F88 and F910 roads are rough, full of river crossings, and laugh in the face of unprepared drivers. A proper 4x4 is a must, and checking the weather and road conditions is not optional. Unless, of course, you enjoy spending the night in the middle of nowhere (with zero phone signal to post about it).

Kerlingarfjöll – Steaming Ridges and Geothermal Fields

If you want nature at its most dramatic, visit the highlands and head to Kerlingarfjöll. This place sits along the F35 Kjölur Route, where steaming vents, bubbling mud pools, and mountains streaked in red, yellow, and orange create a landscape that looks like it belongs in a fever dream.

The highlight? Hveradalir Geothermal Valley. Steam pours out of the ground like the Earth is actively trying to cook itself. The air smells like a science experiment gone wrong (or a dozen rotten eggs). The hills glow in absurd colors, making you question if you are still on Earth or if you somehow wandered into another dimension.

Hiking here is not a casual stroll. The trails are steep, the ground is unpredictable, and the weather? It does whatever it wants. But for those willing to tough it out, the views are completely unreal. If you are looking for an easy, relaxing walk, look elsewhere. If you want nature at full throttle, you just found it.

Hveravellir – Hot Springs in the Heart of the Highlands

Hveravellir sits between Langjökull and Hofsjökull glaciers, right in the middle of nowhere (but in a good way). This geothermal oasis along the F35 Kjölur route is a mix of steaming fumaroles, bubbling hot springs, and landscapes that look straight out of an ancient Viking saga.

The real star of the show here is the natural hot pool, built in 1922 and still going strong. At 38–40°C (100–104°F), it is the perfect spot to relax after bouncing over gravel roads for hours. Vikings and outlaws once passed through here, and if legends are true, some may have even bathed in these very waters (hopefully before the invention of soap).

There are hiking trails, simple accommodations, and even a dining spot for those tired of living off instant noodles. It is one of the few places where you can soak in a hot spring while glaciers loom in the distance. It's not a bad way to end the day, or what do you say?

Vatnajökull National Park – The Largest Glacier in Europe

Think Iceland is all about fire and ice? Vatnajökull National Park is here to remind you that ice still runs the show. Spanning 8,100 km² (3,130 mi²), this monster glacier covers 14% of the country. That means if you wander off without a plan, you might want to rethink your life choices.

The Vatnajökull Glacier is not just big, it is deep. It plunges 400 to 600 meters (1,300 to 2,000 feet) down, with some areas reaching 950 meters (3,100 feet). And what lurks beneath all that ice? Volcanoes. Bárðarbunga and Grímsvötn sit silently below, occasionally reminding Icelanders that nothing here is truly stable.

This park is not just for admiring from a safe distance. Glacier hiking, ice caving, and snowmobiling let you stomp, crawl, and race across ice that has been around for centuries. It belongs on any itinerary, whether you are chasing adventure or just want to stand on a frozen giant and realize how small you really are.

Essential Tips for Campervan Travel in the Highlands

Forget about coming to Iceland's highlands without reading this section first. The highlands are some of the most remote, rugged places in the country, and they do not take kindly to unprepared visitors. But with these tips, you will be ready for anything (okay, almost anything).

Best Time to Visit the Highlands With a Campervan

If you are visiting the highlands in Iceland, timing is everything. The F-roads stay closed for most of the year. Your best shot? Mid-June to mid-September, when they finally decide to open.

June is a solid pick. Fewer crowds, long daylight hours, and a good chance of seeing the highlands without a convoy of rental campers. July and August offer the best conditions, with mild temperatures, open roads, and easy access to top spots. The catch? Everyone else has the same idea. If you do not mind a bit of company, this is the prime window.

September is a wildcard. Fewer tourists, cooler air, and some dramatic landscapes. But the weather? Unpredictable at best, brutal at worst. Rain, wind, and early snow can make things tricky. Outside of this period, the only way in is on a super jeep tour, and even then, you are at the mercy of nature.

Weather and Road Conditions in the Highlands

The highlands are not for the unprepared. Even in summer, the Icelandic weather flips like a coin. One minute, blue skies and sunshine. The next, howling winds and sideways rain.

Expect strong gusts, cold nights, and sudden storms that turn gravel roads into mud-slicked nightmares. Even experienced drivers can find themselves in trouble. The golden rule? Check the conditions before heading out.

Sites like Umferdin.is and SafeTravel.is exist for a reason. They tell you if roads are open if rivers are passable, and if you are about to drive into a storm that will leave you camping in your van for longer than planned. Pay attention, or risk turning your trip into an unintentional survival experience.

Driving a Campervan in Iceland's Highlands: What to Know

Driving in the highlands of Iceland is not like cruising down the Ring Road. It is rough, unpredictable, and requires some actual driving skills. If you are bringing a campervan, here is what you need to know before tackling the F-roads.

• Only 4x4 campervans are allowed. We can't stress this enough. Standard campers are not built for this terrain, and taking one onto an F-road is ILLEGAL.

• River crossings are part of the deal. Some look shallow but can swallow a car whole. Check the depth before crossing, or wait and watch someone else make the first move.

• Fuel up before heading in. There are ZERO GAS STATIONS in the Iceland's highlands, and running out of fuel in the middle of nowhere is a special kind of problem you do not want.

• Slow down unless you enjoy tire trouble. Gravel roads and loose rocks love destroying tires. Drive too fast, and you might end up testing how well you can change a flat in the rain.

Best Campsites in Iceland's Highlands

Camping in the highlands of Iceland is not your typical 'pull up and park' experience. But if you love the idea of waking up surrounded by mountains, glaciers, and steaming hot springs, these campsites are worth the bumpy drive.

• Landmannalaugar Campground – The ultimate base camp for hikers. Surrounded by rhyolite mountains and geothermal springs, this spot puts you right at the start of the Laugavegur trail. Just expect a windy night.

• Hveravellir Campsite – A geothermal retreat between two glaciers. This site comes with hot springs, steaming vents, and hiking trails.

• Þórsmörk Volcano Huts – Tucked between glaciers in a moss-covered valley. Great for hiking, terrible for people who think F249 is just another road.

• Kerlingarfjöll Mountain Resort – A great option for those who want a mix of camping and creature comforts. You are close to geothermal trails, and if the weather gets ugly, there are actual huts available (for those who do not fully trust their tent).

Packing Essentials for a Highland Campervan Trip

There are no last-minute grocery runs, no quick fuel stops, and no roadside assistance ready to swoop in. If you do not bring the right gear, nature will be happy to remind you why that was a mistake.

• Extra fuel and food – Running out of fuel out here is not an inconvenience, it is a disaster. So, bring some extra Jerry cans with at least 50 L of extra fuel. Pack enough food unless you enjoy stretching one granola bar across two days.

• A GPS and offline maps – Cell service is spotty at best nonexistent at worst. A GPS keeps you on track, but if you forgot to bring one, do not worry because we offer up-to-date Garmin GPS.

• Waterproof hiking boots and warm layers – The highlands can get cold, wet, and muddy. Your shoes will be too. Bring something waterproof and sturdy to keep your feet warm and dry.

• A spade and traction mats – Riverbanks can be softer than they look, and mud pits are not uncommon. Bring a shovel to dig yourself out and some traction mats to give your tires something to grip onto.

Safety Tips for Campervan Travelers in the Highlands

Mistakes out here in the Icelandic Highlands can be expensive, dangerous, or just plain embarrassing. Follow these tips to keep your trip stress-free.

• Never attempt river crossings alone. That 'tiny' stream can turn into a camper-swallowing monster in seconds. Watch how others handle it first. If a local turns back, take the hint.

• Park in designated areas. Off-road driving is ILLEGAL, and Iceland hands out fines like candy. Besides, tearing up the landscape for a cool photo is the quickest way to make locals dislike you.

• Respect weather warnings. The forecast might look fine, but the highlands make their own rules. Check road.is and SafeTravel.is before setting out. Getting stranded in a storm is not an experience you want.

• Download the 112 Iceland app. If things go south, this app helps emergency services locate you. Better to have it and not need it than to realize too late that you should have downloaded it.

• Get the right insurance. The highlands are tough on vehicles. Take out Gravel Protection (GP) to avoid paying for rock damage, Sand and Ash Protection (SAAP) in case the wind decides to sandblast your van, and River Crossing Insurance if you plan on tackling deep waters. Without these, you are rolling the dice with your wallet.

FAQs About Iceland's Highlands

Are the Highlands in Iceland worth it?

Absolutely. Iceland's Highlands offer surreal landscapes, epic hiking, and geothermal wonders. If you love remote adventures, rugged scenery, and fewer crowds, it is one of the most unforgettable places to explore.

What is the best highland route in Iceland?

The F208 to Landmannalaugar is the most scenic, packed with colorful mountains and hot springs. For glaciers and geothermal areas, the F35 (Kjölur Route) offers an easier but equally stunning drive.

Does anyone live in the Iceland Highlands?

No permanent residents live there. The highlands are too harsh, with extreme weather and no infrastructure. Seasonal workers, scientists, and tourists pass through, but full-time living is nearly impossible.

When can you go to the Highlands in Iceland?

The best time is mid-June to mid-September when F-roads open, and conditions are safest.