Driving in Iceland in August: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go

By Johanna Sigurðardóttir Verified Expert

So you're thinking about driving in Iceland in August? Smart move. The weather holds up, the highlands finally open, and the roads are at their best. August is busy, no doubt. But if you've got your own car, you're not stuck waiting around for a group to move.

Stop where it looks good. Stay longer if it feels right. The sun barely sets, so you've got time. Driving here during August isn't just doable; it's probably the best way to see the place. Just don't expect it to be all smooth sailing. That's what this guide is for.

Why August Is the Best Month for an Iceland Road Trip

What makes August special isn't just the scenery or sunshine. It's the access. Roads into the Highlands finally open, which means you can reach places that are completely off-limits most of the year. You're not stuck to the Ring Road, either. Remote fjords, rugged trails, and hidden geothermal spots are all in play. 

Local festivals hit their stride, and they're not staged for tourists. You'll find sheep roundups, music gatherings, and strange little traditions that only make sense once you're there. Campsites are fully operational, giving you more freedom to stay wherever the view demands it.

And if you're into wildlife, this is your last chance to see puffins before they disappear. An Iceland road trip in August gives you more than pretty sights. It hands you the keys to the whole country and lets you roam while the gates are still open.

What to Expect from Icelandic Weather in August

August doesn't mean perfect, but Icelandic weather actually gives you a break this time of year. You won’t need to refresh the forecast every five minutes. The weather stays cool, comfortable, and mostly predictable by Icelandic standards, anyway.

• Reykjavík usually hovers somewhere between 10 and 15°C (50 to 59°F). Some days are warmer, others feel cooler.
• Every now and then, it gets oddly hot for Iceland. Like 25°C (77°F). Mostly in the south or east.
• Nights cool off a bit. Think 8 or 9°C (around 46 to 48°F). Not freezing, just enough for a hoodie.
• Early August gives you around 17 hours of daylight. That drops to 14 by the end of the month. Still not bad.
• Rain? Yeah, it happens. Not constant, though. Mostly short showers that come and go.
• On average, Reykjavík gets about 62mm (2.4 inches) of rain across 11 or 12 days.
• If you’re heading north, it’s usually drier. But weather flips fast here, so don’t rely on that too much.

Weather conditions in Iceland in August per region 

Iceland Road Conditions and Best Cars to Rent in August

If you're planning an Iceland self-drive August trip, most of the roads will treat you well. So, to those wondering how safe is driving in Iceland during this season, know that the Ring Road and other big routes are paved and pretty easy to handle. You don't need anything fancy for those. A normal 2WD will do.

Once you leave the main path, though, it changes fast. Gravel roads start showing up, especially in the countryside. They're fine in a regular car, but you'll want to slow it down. Now, if you're heading into the Highlands, that's a different story. 

Those F-roads are rough and sometimes full of water. You'll need a 4WD for that. Not optional. You don't need anything big for places like the South Coast or Golden Circle.

A basic 2WD handles those just fine. But if your plans include rougher roads, or you'd rather not feel every bump, a 4WD SUV makes a difference. It's just easier. You won't stress every time the road turns to gravel or dips out of nowhere.

Driving Iceland's Ring Road in August: Tips and What to Expect

Driving during August in Iceland on the Ring Road (Route 1) feels like having the whole country on standby for your road trip. Most food and fuel stops are open, so finding hot dogs, coffee, and a working toilet isn't a gamble. Farms along the way are selling fresh berries and homemade ice cream out of wooden sheds, and yes, it tastes better when you're eating it next to a volcano.

Side roads like Þakgil or Borgarfjörður Eystri finally open up this time of year. They're wild, quiet, and honestly better than some of the main sights. Just don't expect to rush the Ring Road in five days. Seven to ten gives you space to breathe. You'll need it if you want time for those detours that weren't on your plan.

Tour buses pack the South Coast in the middle of the day. Go early or drive later. It's light until late, anyway. And while the south might be sunny, it could be raining in the east, so bring layers. Lots of them.

Driving Iceland's Highlands and F-Roads in August

Driving Iceland's F roads in August isn't just about ticking boxes. It's about stepping into a wild, remote part of the country that feels like another planet. The Highlands stretch for miles with no towns, no shops, and barely a signal. You'll be surrounded by black sand plains, lava fields, glacier rivers, and steaming vents that look straight out of a sci-fi film.

This isn't the Ring Road. Fewer people go out here, and that's the point. It's quiet. Harsh. Unfiltered. A 4WD is non-negotiable, but mindset matters too. You'll drive slower, stay more alert, and sometimes turn around if a river looks risky. That's not failure. That's smart.

GPS won't always work once you're deep in the Highlands. It's better to download a proper offline map before you lose signal. Mark where you're going and maybe a few backup routes, too. Fill your tank ahead of time. No fuel out there. Same deal with food and clothing. Pack enough. You don't want to run low on anything. Hungry, cold, and stranded isn't the kind of ‘authentic Icelandic experience’ you're aiming for.

Askja, Kerlingarfjöll, and Landmannalaugar aren't exactly around the corner. That's the whole point. Fewer people, more payoff. Once you're out there, it's just you and the road. Most folks give a wave when they drive by. It's not mandatory, but if they do wave at you, then be polite and wave back.

Don't ignore closed signs. Roads close for a reason. Weather can change without warning. If things start to feel off, just turn back. It's not giving up. It's staying smart.

Vehicles We Recommend for Driving in Iceland in August

Picking a car depends on where you're headed and how much stuff you've got. If you're planning to rent a car in Iceland for a self-driving trip in August, you've got plenty of options. Some are small and easy. Others are better if you're carrying more or heading off the main track.

On a Tight Budget?

• Hyundai i10 (manual) – It's not huge, but it gets the job done. Great for paved roads and short days on the move.
• Toyota Aygo (automatic) – Light on fuel, easy to handle, and just right for one or two people with minimal baggage.

Mid-Range Options

• Kia Ceed (Manual) – Decent space for a few people and their bags. Doesn't burn much fuel, and it's easy to drive on longer trips.
• Hyundai i20 (manual) – Works well for a couple or two friends. Not huge, but enough space to ride comfortably without feeling packed 

Go-Anywhere Comfort

• Dacia Duster 4x4 (manual) – This one's a no-brainer. You can drive it through gravel, shallow rivers, and those rough F-roads without worrying too much. It just works.
• Jeep Renegade 4x4 (automatic) – It feels nicer to sit in but still handles rough terrain pretty well. Not a bad pick if you're going off the main roads and want something with a bit more comfort.

Iceland Driving Tips for August: Stay Safe and Smart

Here are some real-world Iceland driving tips for summer that'll save you time, stress, and maybe a sheep or two:

• Long daylight hours don't mean you have to spend 17 hours behind the wheel. Slow it down. August isn't a race.
• Some places get slammed with tourists. Mid-morning to late afternoon is the worst of it. If you want breathing room, drive before everyone wakes up or wait until later.
• Speed limits don't stay the same for long. One stretch you're doing fine, then out of nowhere, it drops to 50 km/h (31 mph). Easy way to get a fat fine. Take a minute to check Iceland's driving laws so you don't learn the hard way.
• One-lane bridges and blind hills are common. Yield to oncoming traffic and ease off the gas.
• Sheep on the road. They wander. They stare. They run straight into traffic.
• Plan bathroom stops. Some stretches have nothing but lava fields for miles.
• Off-road driving is illegal. You'll wreck the land and get fined heavily.
• Headlights on, always. Doesn't matter if the sun's shining. It's the law.

Fuel Stops and Route Planning for Your Iceland Road Trip

When self-driving in Iceland in August, running low on gas isn't just inconvenient. It can wreck your whole day. Here's how to stay ahead of it:

• Don't push it. In the east and north, gas stations can be hundreds of kilometers apart. Keep your tank above half. Check out gas stations in Iceland before you hit the road.
• Credit cards only. Most pumps are self-service. No PIN, no fuel. Make sure your card works with machines.
• Fill up when you can. Remote stations may close early or be completely unmanned. Don't wait until the warning light comes on.
• Make the stop count. Use fueling breaks for bathroom trips, coffee, and grabbing snacks. It saves time later.
• Skip the cash. Almost everywhere takes cards. But a backup snack in the glove box never hurts if the next shop is closed.

Best Apps and Maps for Driving in Iceland

If you're planning a road trip to Iceland in August, your phone might not always save you. Signal drops fast once you're out of town. Here's how to stay on track:

• GPS works... until it doesn't. Especially in the Highlands or remote spots. Always download offline maps.
• Don't trust Google Maps blindly. It can send you down roads that don't exist or into closed F-roads.
• Know your route before the signal cuts.
• No signal? No problem. As long as you planned ahead.

Best apps for the job:

• Maps.me or Gaia GPS for offline navigation
• Veður for real-time weather
• Safetravel.is for alerts, and Umferdin.is for road conditions
• 112 Iceland for emergency help

How to Stay Safe While Driving in Iceland in August

If you've been wondering whether it is safe to drive in Iceland in August, then the answer is that it mostly is. But only if you use common sense and stay prepared. Here's what matters:

• Weather flips fast. Reykjavík might be sunny while the south coast gets hammered with rain. Don't assume anything.
• Wind is no joke. It can rip doors right out of your hands. Always hold them firmly when getting out. Taking extra insurance is a smart move.
• ALWAYS check the road conditions before every drive.
• Keep an emergency kit handy. Some warm stuff, a light, something to charge your phone, food, and water. You'll be glad you threw it in when the weather turns, or your car decides to act up.
• STAY on marked roads. Off-road driving is illegal and expensive if you get caught.
• Only cross rivers in a 4WD. Your 2WD rental won't make it.
• Listen to your gut. If something feels off, turn around. No view is worth getting stranded.

Key Driving Rules and Etiquette to Remember

If you're driving in Iceland in August, following the rules isn't just about avoiding fines. It's about not being that tourist. Here's what to keep in mind:

• Iceland has a near-zero alcohol limit. The legal limit is 0.02%, but in practice, one drink can land you in heaps of trouble or even worse. You could spend some time in jail. 
• Roundabouts trip people up. The inner lane has priority when exiting. Don't swap lanes inside like it's a free-for-all.
• Don't tailgate. Locals hate it. Only pass when it's marked and safe. Icelandic roads aren't built for impatient driving.
• Use lay-bys properly. Let others pass if you're slow or sightseeing. 
• Respect the locals. They've got places to be. Pull over before launching a drone or blocking traffic for a photo.
• Keep the volume down. Honking at sheep or blasting music in nature is just rude.
• Flashing headlights? Pay attention. It means something's ahead.

Read more about driving in Iceland before you go. It'll save you the trouble.

How to Avoid Crowds at Iceland’s Top Attractions in August

Driving Iceland's roads in August sounds dreamy until you pull into a waterfall parking lot, which feels like a theme park. Here's how to avoid that mess:

• Go counterclockwise. Most people go clockwise. Why follow the herd?
• Weekends? Hard pass. Reykjavík and the Golden Circle on a Saturday? Personally, we wouldn't go. Try midweek instead.
• Bad weather is good. A little rain scares off half the crowd. Bring a jacket and enjoy the extra elbow room.
• Choose the backup star. Too many people at Seljalandsfoss? Gljúfrabúi is 2 minutes away and somehow still a secret.
• If there's a trail, take it. Most folks barely leave the parking lot. Walk five minutes, and it's a different world.
• Stay close, and sneak in early. Or go late. Buses run on a schedule. You don't have to.

Best Iceland Routes and Places to Visit by Car in August

Exploring Iceland by car in August gets you to places most people skip. Small towns, quiet roads, unexpected stops that don't show up in brochures. You don't need hi-tech gear; you just need curiosity. The east, north, and west have plenty to offer. Here are some of our top recommendations for the best Iceland road trip in summer:

South Coast

If you're doing an August road trip in Iceland, the South Coast should be at the top of your list. You get big views without leaving the main road. No 4WD needed. Everything's open. You don't need to plan around road closures or blocked access. Just pick a spot and go.

• Seljalandsfoss – About 60 meters high. That's roughly 197 feet. You can walk behind it if you don't mind getting drenched. Some people bring a raincoat. Others just accept it.
• Skógafoss – Same height, totally different feel. It's loud and strong. You'll feel the spray from far back. You won't stay dry here either.
• Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach – This one's got black sand, weird rock columns, and waves that don't mess around. People get too close for photos. Don't be one of them. Sneaker waves have swept some out to sea, and a few lost their lives in the past.

• Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon – A winding canyon that looks fake from above. Easy to reach. You'll probably end up staring longer than planned.
• Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon – A narrow, mossy canyon that winds through the hills. Easy to reach. Feels like you've stepped into a movie scene.
• Dyrhólaey – A rocky cliff with massive views over the black coastline. Look for puffins on the edge. There's a lighthouse, too, sitting quietly on top.
• Kvernufoss Waterfall – Hidden in a small gorge near Skógafoss. You can walk behind it. It's quieter, calmer, and rarely crowded.
• Sólheimasandur Plane Wreck – A broken U.S. Navy plane in the middle of nowhere. Takes about 45 minutes to walk there. Feels strange in a good way.

You can do the whole thing in a day. Two is better. Stop a lot. That's where Iceland gets good.

Golden Circle

If you're planning a self-drive in Iceland this August, the Golden Circle is a no-stress way to start. Roads are paved, easy to follow, and everything is close. You can do it in a day without rushing.

• Thingvellir National Park – This is where the tectonic plates meet. You can walk between them. It's also the site of Iceland's first parliament, which sat in the middle of this giant rift valley.
• Geysir Geothermal Area – Steam is everywhere, there are bubbling holes, and there is one geyser that actually goes off. Strokkur erupts every few minutes. You'll smell the sulfur before you see it.
• Gullfoss Waterfall – Gullfoss crashes down in two stages, dropping 32 meters (105 feet). The spray reaches you fast. Big, loud, and hard to walk away from.
• Secret Lagoon – A small hot spring pool is located in a quiet village. Steam rises from nearby vents. No spa vibes. Just hot water and locals.
• Fridheimar Tomato Greenhouse – A restaurant inside a working greenhouse. You eat surrounded by tomato plants. It's weird at first, but then you get into it. The soup's great, though.
• Bruarfoss – Bright blue glacier water slicing through a narrow channel. It takes a bit of walking to reach it, which keeps the crowds down.

Go early or late to dodge the tour buses. It's a great warm-up before heading into the longer drives.

Westfjords and Snæfellsnes

Renting a car in Iceland in August gives you a rare chance to explore the Westfjords without running into closed roads or snow-blocked passes. It's remote, rugged, and mostly tourist-free. You'll need a 4WD or a sturdy 2WD to handle the gravel, but it's worth it. For wild views and total quiet, this is the move.

• Dynjandi Waterfall – A giant, layered cascade that spreads out like a fan over the cliff. It drops 100 meters, about 328 feet. You'll hear it before you see it. Up close, it's thunderous.
• Raudasandur Beach – A wide stretch of red and golden sand that goes on forever. No crowds, no cafés, just wind and sea. It feels like Iceland flipped upside down.
• Latrabjarg Cliffs – Towering seabird cliffs on the edge of Europe. Puffins nest here in August.

The Snæfellsnes peninsula is easier driving. People call it 'Iceland in Miniature'. Volcanoes, fishing villages, black beaches, lava fields. It's all in one loop. Great for a slow three to four-day trip.

North and East Iceland

Planning a road trip to Iceland in August and want to skip the tourist trail? Head north and east. These regions are quieter, feel wilder, and the views hit differently. Most roads are paved. Some mountain passes are gravel, but nothing a careful driver can't handle.

• Lake Mývatn – A volcanic lake surrounded by steaming vents, lava fields, and craters. The air smells like sulfur. Midges hover everywhere but don't bite.
• Godafoss – A 12-meter (39-foot) high waterfall that spans 30 meters across. Curved, icy blue, and powerful. You can stand close to the edge.
• Dettifoss – Drops 44 meters (144 feet) and is known as Europe's most powerful waterfall. The ground shakes. The water is brown and fast.
• Húsavík – A fishing village turned whale-watching hub. Boats head out all day in August. You're likely to see humpbacks and maybe a blue whale if you're lucky.
• Seyðisfjörður – A postcard-perfect town with colorful houses, steep mountains, and a rainbow-painted street. Reached by a winding mountain road.
• Borgarfjörður Eystri – Remote and rugged. Great hiking trails and a puffin colony you can get within a few meters of.
• Vök Baths – Geothermal pools floating in Lake Urriðavatn near Egilsstaðir. Hot water meets cold air. It's calm, scenic, and not crowded.

This region is perfect if you're doing the full Ring Road or just want a quieter, more local side of Iceland.

Renting a Car and Driving in Iceland in August

Driving in Iceland in August is the easiest it gets. Roads are clear, days are long, and nearly the whole country is open. Whether you're sticking to the Ring Road or heading into the Highlands, having your own car gives you the freedom to stop when and where you want. 

No tight schedules. No waiting on tour buses. Just you, the road, and whatever's around the next bend. If you've got questions about routes, road conditions, or which car to rent, reach out. Our Reykjavík City Office is open every day from 8 AM to 6 PM. We're happy to help.