Iceland is famous for its waterfalls, glaciers, volcanoes, and dramatic landscapes. Many of the country’s most popular attractions are easy to reach by driving the Ring Road or the Golden Circle.
However, some of Iceland’s most spectacular destinations are located deep in the Icelandic Highlands, far from paved highways and busy tourist routes.
To reach these remote places, you will need a 4×4 rental in Iceland. Many of these routes involve F-roads, which are mountain roads that require high ground clearance and four-wheel drive.
If you want to explore Iceland beyond the typical tourist stops, here are seven incredible places that can only be reached with a 4×4 vehicle.
1. Landmannalaugar
Landmannalaugar is one of the most famous destinations in the Icelandic Highlands.
Located in the Fjallabak Nature Reserve, this area is known for its colorful rhyolite mountains, lava fields, and natural hot springs.
The roads leading to Landmannalaugar are F-roads, which means you must rent a 4×4 in Iceland to reach the area safely.
Visitors often come here for hiking, photography, and soaking in the geothermal hot spring surrounded by mountains.
2. Askja Caldera
Askja is one of Iceland’s most fascinating volcanic landscapes.
This remote caldera lies deep within the central Highlands and contains the stunning crater lake Víti.
Reaching Askja requires driving long distances on rough Iceland F-roads, which makes a 4×4 rental Iceland vehicle essential.
The journey itself is an adventure through lava deserts and vast volcanic plains.
3. Kerlingarfjöll
Kerlingarfjöll is one of the most unique mountain regions in Iceland.
This geothermal area is known for its steaming valleys, hot springs, and colorful rhyolite peaks.
The area is located in the Highlands and is accessed via F-roads, meaning you will need a 4×4 car rental in Iceland to get there.
Kerlingarfjöll is a fantastic destination for hiking and exploring geothermal landscapes.
4. Þórsmörk Valley
Þórsmörk is a lush mountain valley surrounded by glaciers and rugged peaks.
It is considered one of the best hiking areas in Iceland and is the starting point for famous trails like the Laugavegur Trek.
Reaching Þórsmörk involves multiple river crossings, which is why most travelers either take a specialized highland bus or drive a capable 4×4 rental Iceland vehicle.
The valley offers stunning scenery and unforgettable hiking opportunities.
5. Maelifell Volcano
Maelifell is one of the most photographed volcanoes in Iceland.
This perfectly shaped moss covered volcanic cone rises dramatically from black sand plains in the Highlands.
The road to Maelifell requires driving through remote F-roads, making a 4×4 SUV rental in Iceland necessary.
Because of its remote location, the area remains one of Iceland’s most peaceful and untouched landscapes.
6. Laki Craters
The Laki crater row is one of the largest volcanic eruption sites in Iceland.
The area contains more than 130 volcanic craters formed during a massive eruption in the 18th century.
Accessing the Laki craters requires driving on rough Highland roads, which means travelers must rent a 4×4 in Iceland.
The views across the crater fields and lava landscapes are unforgettable.
7. Hveravellir
Hveravellir is a geothermal oasis located between the glaciers Langjökull and Hofsjökull.
This remote Highland area features hot springs, steaming vents, and a natural geothermal pool where visitors can relax after exploring the area.
The route to Hveravellir crosses rugged mountain roads, so travelers need a 4×4 rental in Iceland to reach the site.
Why You Need a 4×4 to Visit These Places
The attractions listed above are located in areas where standard cars cannot safely travel. Most of these routes involve F-roads, which include:
- Rough gravel surfaces
- Steep terrain
- Large potholes and rocks
- Possible river crossings
Because of these conditions, only 4×4 vehicles are allowed on these roads in Iceland.
Choosing a 4×4 rental in Iceland ensures you can explore these remote landscapes safely and comfortably.
Best Affordable 4×4 Rental Cars in Iceland
Exploring Iceland’s Highlands does not require a luxury SUV.
Many travelers choose cheap 4×4 rental Iceland options that still perform well on mountain roads.
Popular vehicles include:
- Dacia Duster
- Toyota RAV4
- Kia Sportage
These models are widely considered some of the best affordable 4×4 rental Iceland choices, providing reliable performance without a high price.
Discover Iceland Beyond the Main Roads
Some of Iceland’s most unforgettable landscapes are far from the main highways.
Exploring the Highlands with a 4×4 rental in Iceland allows you to reach hidden volcanic landscapes, colorful mountains, and remote geothermal areas that most travelers never see.
If you want to experience the wild side of Iceland, renting a reliable and affordable 4×4 in Iceland is the key to unlocking these incredible destinations.
FAQ: 4×4 Travel in Iceland
- Do you need a 4×4 to visit the Icelandic Highlands?
Yes. The Highlands are accessed through F-roads, and these mountain roads require a 4×4 vehicle due to rough terrain.
- When are Iceland’s F-roads open?
Most F-roads open between late June and early July depending on snow conditions and usually close again in early autumn.
- What is the best affordable 4×4 rental in Iceland?
Thrifty Car Rental Iceland offers affordable 4×4 options such as the Dacia Duster and Toyota RAV4, which are well suited for exploring Iceland’s Highlands.
- Can you drive to Landmannalaugar without a 4×4?
No. The roads leading to Landmannalaugar are F-roads, which require a 4×4 vehicle.
- Are Iceland’s Highlands worth visiting?
Yes. The Highlands offer some of Iceland’s most unique landscapes, including volcanic deserts, geothermal areas, and colorful mountains.