Best Winter Self Drive Tours in Iceland
Explore Iceland's largest selection of winter self drive tours. Enjoy customized itineraries with accommodation, vehicles, and tours booked in advance.
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Frequently asked questions
Is the car fitted with winter tires?
Between November and March, Icelandic law requires all cars to be fitted with winter tires. Therefore you can be sure that your car will be fitted with winter tires for your self-drive tour in Iceland.
What is the weather like in Iceland during the winter?
Winter is the coldest season, but it may not be as cold as you imagine. If you are somewhere in the south, such as Reykjavik, the average temperature is around 32 F (0 C). It can go down to 23 F (-5 C) or up to 41 F (5 C) but doesn't get any colder or warmer than that, though you should always consider the wind chill.
If you're wondering when it snows in Iceland, then winter will be the logical answer. Anywhere from October to April can experience snowfall, with the heaviest being received in December and January.
If you're wondering when it snows in Iceland, then winter will be the logical answer. Anywhere from October to April can experience snowfall, with the heaviest being received in December and January.
What are the daylight hours during the winter in Iceland?
The year's shortest day happens just before the Christmas holidays, on December 21st. On that day, called the winter solstice, there are only 4-5 hours of daylight. Before the winter solstice, the days get shorter and shorter as time goes by and after the winter solstice, days start getting longer.
Do I need a 4x4 to drive the ring road or to drive to North Iceland during the winter?
Yes, we recommend renting a 4x4 car in winter. For short and easy routes, we offer the option of booking a 2WD, although it is always best to use a 4WD for driving in Iceland in winter.
Will the car's winter tires be studded?
Unfortunately, this can't be guaranteed because Icelandic car rentals are not required to fit their vehicles with studded tires. Please contact us at info@guidetoiceland.is if you wish for your vehicle to be fitted with studded tires. Please note that additional charges may apply.
Can I rent tire-chains to aid me in driving through ice and snow during the winter in Iceland?
No, tire chains are illegal in Iceland.
Will I be safe during my winter self-drive tour in Iceland if I have no previous experience driving in snowy or icy conditions?
Icy roads can be tricky to navigate, and we only recommend winter self-drive tours for those with winter-driving experience. If you want to try, nonetheless, we recommend that you limit your travels to Iceland's South Coast.
During your trip in Iceland, it’s a good idea to regularly check the weather forecast and road conditions for your intended route. Please note that we also offer guided tour packages in mini-buses with English-speaking guides. Many of these guided packages take you through the most popular self-drive routes.
During your trip in Iceland, it’s a good idea to regularly check the weather forecast and road conditions for your intended route. Please note that we also offer guided tour packages in mini-buses with English-speaking guides. Many of these guided packages take you through the most popular self-drive routes.
What happens if I arrive late to a tour or cannot make it to a meeting point due to road closures or extreme weather?
The good news is that the Ring Road in Iceland very rarely closes. If, however, other roads which are essential to your itinerary are closed, we will assist you with all the necessary arrangements and help you in any way possible. If you encounter any issues, please reach out to our team via email at info@guidetoiceland.is.
What do the winter self drive tours include?
The self-drive packages include all accommodation and car rentals, as well as the support of a dedicated travel agent at Guide to Iceland, should you encounter any issues along the way. It’s possible to also schedule tours, meals and premium airport transfers as part of your self-drive. However, please note that additional charges may apply.
What insurances are included for my winter self-drive tour in Iceland?
The car insurance package includes Collision Damage Waiver, Super Collision Damage Waiver and Gravel Protection as standard. This is the best coverage and the most limited liability payment option available. It is also possible to add Sand and Ash Protection, which is recommended if you intend to travel along the windy and sandy South Coast. Please contact your booking agent for further advice.
Should I purchase the sand and ash protection insurance in winter?
We always recommend this insurance as there is no way of predicting whether a sandstorm will occur during your winter self-drive in Iceland. This is especially important if you choose to travel along the South Coast of Iceland.
Does the car have a GPS?
Yes, all cars are fitted with a GPS as standard.
How do I find the sightseeing locations, my hotels and the meeting points for the tours during my winter self-drive tour in Iceland?
You will be given an itinerary that includes all addresses and GPS coordinates of all of the locations of accommodations and tours. Your itinerary will also include some suggestions of places to see along your winter road trip in Iceland.
Considering the shorter daylight hours during the winter in Iceland, will I be able to see and experience all the points of interest during my self-drive tour?
We always take this into account when we plan your trip. When we customise your itinerary, we make sure that you can see and experience the very best Iceland has to offer in the given weather and road conditions.
How long does it take to drive the Ring Road in Iceland in the winter?
Taking into account varying driving conditions because of weather as well as short daylight hours during the winter, it can take a bit longer to drive the Ring Road during the winter compared with the summer. Including stops along the way, we would recommend at least 7-8 days for your self-drive tour in Iceland during the winter.
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