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Hello, adventure seekers! As your neighborhood car rental experts here in Iceland, we can tell you everything about driving in Iceland in October. As one of our shoulder months, there are lots of perks to traveling around the island during this time. However, the Land of Fire and Ice will be heading towards its really icy phase, which will also impact your trip.
In this article, we provide a comprehensive overview of driving in Iceland in October. We provide you with insights into the weather, its impact on the roads, and offer a range of other tips and tricks to make your journey as memorable and safe as possible.
Is October a Good Time to Drive in Iceland?
Driving in Iceland in October is special! The summer tourists are long gone, you'll save some cash with lower prices, and nature shows off its fall colors. Also, you might see the mountains get their first dusting of snow, and if you're lucky, you could catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights dancing across the night sky in a sort of pre-show for its winter main event.
Therefore, it’s understandable that so many want to road trip around the island during this time. However, the question people usually want to know is, "Is it safe to drive in Iceland in October?" The short answer is yes, but you’ll need to drive with caution and have some insider knowledge of both our weather and road conditions.
For the most part, our main roads, like the Ring Road and the Golden Circle, are all paved and kept in tip-top shape, so you can rest assured that you’ll be good to go for your Iceland road trip's October journey. However, the winter weather will soon start creeping in, and in places such as the north, where the weather can be harsher, you may already be on the lookout for sudden road closures due to extreme weather conditions.
Another hiccup when it comes to road-tripping around the island is that annual closures mean no access to most of the F-roads in Iceland (in other words, exploring the Highlands and parts of the Westfjords could be out). However, if weather conditions permit, some may remain open.
As long as you come prepared, keep your plans flexible, and check the weather often, you’re in for a real treat when driving in Iceland in October.
Weather and Road Conditions in October
If this will be your first time visiting the island during October, this is what you can expect from the weather and road conditions:
Temperatures, Snow, and Wind
As we already mentioned, October is a transition period when it comes to the weather here in Iceland. Temperatures can range from 2 degrees Celsius to 7 degrees Celsius (36 degrees Fahrenheit to 45 degrees Fahrenheit). The weather can be perfect and fall-like at the beginning of October.
But by the end of the month, the north and the Highlands are bound to have already experienced some winter weather in the form of sleet and snow. The southern part of the country will remain free of extreme winter weather till about mid-November.
Now, let's talk about those legendary winds of ours. Although not quite as strong as the mid-winter winds that reach 35+ kilometers an hour, October winds can still give you a run for your money (or at least your car door if you don’t properly hold on when opening and closing it). As a safety precaution, always park with the wind at your back.
October climate and weather highlights:
- Highly unpredictable weather and strong winds.
- Temperatures can drop below 0°C or rise up to 15°C.
- It’s the rainiest month of the year.
- Snow is possible in the north and inland areas.
- You might experience “all four seasons” in a single day.
- Winds can be dangerously strong, travelers report gusts capable of ripping off car doors!
- Umbrellas are useless due to the wind.
Daylight Hours and Visibility
Another reason driving in Iceland will be the best in October is due to the daylight hours available. Even though the island is slowly transitioning to winter and daylight hours are steadily decreasing, you’ll still have up to 11 hours at the beginning of the month that will turn to around 8 hours by the end of the month.
If you’re someone who enjoys having a jam-packed trip itinerary and will be spending a lot of time on the road, October makes for the perfect Iceland road trip before daylight hours really go south from November onwards.
Of course, compared to our summertime, daylight would’ve already decreased significantly in October. However, it’s in that perfect balance that still allows for plenty of adventuring throughout the day, and gives you a shot at spotting the Northern Lights in the darkness.
Just always remember that if you're out late on the road chasing our Aurora Borealis, take it slow on the way back - visibility decreases, especially in our more remote areas where there are not many lights, and our sheep don't wear reflective gear!
What Car Should You Rent in October?
Another important decision to make, and which can really make or break your road trip around the island, is the type of car you rent. Here’s what you need to consider:
4x4 vs. 2WD: Which One Works Better?
Every explorer doing an Iceland self-drive in October wonders about this! A compact (or slightly larger if you’re a larger group) 2-wheel drive will be all you need if you intend to stick to our cities and towns mainly in the Southern Coast, as well as main routes like the Ring Road or the Golden Circle.
Those tiny cars? Keep them for summer city trips! However, if you're considering taking a detour to some of our more remote locations and will be taking on some of our rougher and tougher gravel roads (or any F-road should any be open), then a 4x4 is your top option.
You will also find some very eager beavers here in Iceland who prefer being prepared for whatever comes their way and just go for the 4x4 option from day dot. Why? Well, when driving in Iceland in October (especially late October), you can already find some icy patches and even snow if you’re heading up north.
You also never know when adventure takes you on our gravel roads to some hidden gem locals told you about. A 4x4 simply gives you better grip, stability, and a sense of Viking bravery when nature gets wild. Remember, even on main roads, conditions can change quickly, so it’s essential to check vedur.is (weather) and umferdin.is (road conditions) daily.
Renting a Car in October: Pros and Cons
Planning a road trip around Iceland this October? Renting a car might be your best bet. Here's a breakdown of the pros and cons to help you decide:
Pros
- Freedom and Flexibility: A rental car gives you the independence to explore at your own pace, without the limitations of public transport or tour schedules.
- Wide Vehicle Selection: Choose from compact cars for city travel to sturdy 4x4s for tackling rougher conditions outside Reykjavík or along the Ring Road.
- Better Comfort in Bad Weather: Cars allow you to sleep in warm hotels or guesthouses—ideal if you're sensitive to the cold or prefer guaranteed heating.
- Easier to Drive and Park: Smaller size and greater maneuverability make cars a more comfortable option in cities, towns, and narrow roads.
- Access to Remote Regions (with a 4x4): A 4WD car can handle more rugged routes and changing conditions, especially in the north or eastern regions as October progresses.
Cons
- Accommodation Required: You'll need to book hotels or guesthouses in advance, which can add to the overall trip cost and reduce spontaneity.
- Weather-Dependent Road Access: While most major roads remain open, F-roads (mountain routes) are typically closed from late September. Sudden snow or wind-related closures may also impact your itinerary in mid to late October.
- Extra Costs for Insurance: To be safe, you'll likely need to add full protection packages that cover wind, sand, ash, and puncture damage—especially in the Fall.
- Limited Access to Nature Overnight: You won’t be sleeping in scenic natural spots like Skógafoss or under the Northern Lights unless you’re staying nearby.
Tips for Safe Driving in October
If this is going to be your first time driving in Iceland in October, the following tips can be helpful:
- Stick to our speed limits here in Iceland (which may be very different from what you’re used to back home). This is not just for your own safety but also to avoid the need to remortgage your house to pay our hefty fines.
- Stay alert, especially in our more remote areas, where we have free-roaming animals that can suddenly cross the roads.
- It’s always a good idea to have an emergency first-aid kit as well as some extra rations of snacks and water, in case you ever find yourself in an emergency situation.
- Also, save our emergency number, 112, on your phone so you’re prepared.
- Ensure you have plenty of chargers and power banks for your essential electronic devices to stay juiced up. What many don’t know is that the cold of Iceland actually makes batteries run out of juice quicker.
- Always ensure that you have at least half a tank full of gas when driving in Iceland in October and make a point of fueling up before heading out to less densely populated areas.
- Always keep a close eye on our weather and road conditions by checking the Vedur and Umferdin websites for real-time updates.
- Allow for a more flexible itinerary during this time. You don’t want just one little hiccup along the way to completely derail your Iceland road trip in October.
- Get full protection: opting for a comprehensive insurance option is strongly advised; that includes coverage for wind, sand, ash damage, and tire punctures.
Where You Can (and Can't) Drive in October
We give you the lowdown so you can plan your road trip accordingly:
Highland Roads and F-Road Closures
Are you dreaming of Highland adventures? Well, as already mentioned, Iceland's F-roads in October are off-limits! These challenging mountain roads are closed to visitors by late September or early October, depending on the weather, and will remain closed until June. So, keep those interior trips for a summer road trip.
Popular Routes That Are Safe in October
We’ve already addressed the question, “Is it safe to drive in Iceland in October?” But you’ll be glad to hear that our main roads (and some of our most popular road trip routes) are not only open all year round but truly spectacular! The Ring Road (aka Route 1) wraps around the island in a loop, so it gives you a little taste of everything the country has to offer with plenty of famous attractions along the way.
The South Coast Way (the southern part of the Ring Road route) is filled with all sorts of icy and watery adventures, cruising along the sea with its black sand beaches and checking out waterfalls and jaw-dropping places like Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach. The Golden Circle is ideal for those with limited time on the island.
This is a smaller loop road that begins and ends in the capital city, and that is also jam-packed with all sorts of exciting sights and activities. Of course, the streets in our cities and towns are also no problem. But, once again, keep in mind that unforeseen circumstances do occur, and roads may suddenly close for various reasons. So keep your schedule flexible and check weather and road updates, even on these open and safe roads.
And remember! The optimal duration for a road trip around Iceland in October is at least 10 days. This allows enough flexibility in case of sudden weather changes or road closures that could delay your travel plans.
Scenic Drives Worth Exploring in October
Consider including some of the following scenic drives in your trip itinerary:
South Coast Highlights
Cruising along the South Coast is nothing but spectacular. Waterfalls such as Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss resemble jewels, and the dramatic black sand beaches at Reynisfjara seem like you’ve just walked onto a movie set. To make things even better at these infamous sites is the fact that there are no peak season crowds around, cramping your viewing pleasure.
The Golden Circle in Autumn
As already mentioned, the Golden Circle is a firecracker when it comes to famous sites. Along the route, you’ll find Thingvellir National Park, which marks the spot of Iceland’s first parliament, the Geysir Geothermal Area, where geysers send thousands of liters of boiling hot water flying meters into the air, and Gullfoss, a two-tiered waterfall that’s the mossiest green in October.
This road is an excellent route for panoramic views and incredible sights, just a short distance from Reykjavik, where you will begin and end this Iceland adventure.
Snaefellsnes Peninsula in Fall Colors
Would you like to visit “Iceland in Miniature” as Snaefellsnes Peninsula is referred to? When you explore Snaefellsnes in October, you will experience our lava fields and fishing villages in their autumn colors, and there are way fewer people compared to the south. And believe us, Kirkjufell Mountain looks even more breathtaking with its first snow cap of the season!
Things to see & do while driving in Iceland in October
October in Iceland may bring colder weather, but it also brings a magical mix of experiences. If you're lucky, even the Northern Lights might dance above your head!
To boost your chances of spotting the aurora borealis, head out of the cities to escape light pollution (not that hard to so in a country like Iceland), check the aurora forecast regularly, and keep an eye out for clear skies. Sometimes all it takes is a short drive to find the perfect viewing spot.
But that’s not all October has to offer, nope nope nope! This month brings some unique events and cozy adventures:
- Catch the Reykjavik International Film Festival, a must for cinema lovers.
- A Beatle lover? See the Imagine Peace Tower light up on Viðey Island, a tribute from Yoko Ono to John Lennon.
- Enjoy a whale watching tour. Some species are still active in Icelandic waters this time of year, but sadly, not many.
- Soak in one of the country’s many geothermal baths and unwind in warm waters as autumn breezes blow.
October may be moody weather-wise, but it's full of incredible things to experience... so just bring layers, waterproof clothing, and a curious spirit!
FAQs About Driving in Iceland in October
Below you will find the answers to some of our most frequently asked questions about driving in Iceland in October:
Is It Safe to Drive in Iceland in October?
You bet! It’s completely safe to drive in Iceland in October as long as you stay on our main roads and routes, drive with caution, and check the weather and road conditions every morning.
Do I Need a 4x4 to Drive in Iceland in October?
For the main roads and routes? Not really. But for more confidence and comfort? Sure! Additionally, if you plan to take the “road less traveled” in our more remote regions and drive on our gravel roads, a 4x4 is the better option.
Are the F-roads Open in October?
Unfortunately, not, dear thrill-seeker. Our highland F-roads are taking their winter break till June. Add those adventures to your summer road trip itinerary.
How Do I Stay Informed About Road Closures?
Make Umferdin your go-to source. If you check it as much as you scroll through your social media, there’s no way you’ll miss a thing. Always stay one step ahead!
What Should I Do If I Get Stuck Along the Road When Driving in Iceland in October?
Please stay in your car and call for assistance, whether your rental agent or our emergency line (112, remember?).
Final Tips Before You Hit the Road
Just a few final words of wisdom before you hit the road:
Always dress in layers. Since October is a transition month, the weather can sometimes be a bit more unpredictable than usual. By dressing in layers, you’ll always be prepared. Just take something off or put something on as the situation calls for.
Bring waterproof clothing and gear, including a raincoat. This is not just to prepare you for whatever weather may come your way, but also to prevent you from getting soaked at our waterfalls or wet on the trails to our hot springs.
Download a few offline maps and bring a couple of hard copies with you, just in case technology and signals fail you.
Respect our environment and abide by our laws. You’re not allowed to park or camp in areas not specifically designated for such activities, as damage to our ecosystem can take up to a decade to recover, if at all.
Ready to Start Your Iceland Self-Drive October Adventure?
What are you waiting for?! It’s time to plan and prep that itinerary, book that flight, and rent a car in Iceland and head out on the adventure of a lifetime! Remember, a rental car gives you the freedom to hunt the Northern Lights, uncover hidden spots, and write your own story here in the Land of Fire and Ice. Need more advice or weather info? We’re always happy to assist. Till then, hope to see you soon!
