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Driving Through Iceland

Driving Through Iceland

By: Esther Thorvalds
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I'm Esther, a guide from Iceland, and I've driven these roads in every single season. Rain, shine, snow, or sideways wind. I know them like the back of my hand.

Iceland is one of the most beautiful places to drive in the world. The mountains, the glaciers, the black sand beaches, the waterfalls around every bend. It is absolutely stunning. And it is also one of the easiest places to underestimate.

The wind can push your car sideways. The weather can change from sunshine to a storm in ten minutes. The sheep do not look both ways. And the gravel roads? They have a mind of their own.

But do not worry. I am not here to scare you. I am here to help you.

In this episode, I will walk you through what you really need to know to stay safe. Not a boring list of rules you will forget. Just the things I would tell a friend before they picked up the keys. The things I wish every tourist knew before they hit the road.

We will talk about the wind and how to keep your car doors attached. We will talk about the single-lane bridges and who goes first. We will talk about sudden weather, black ice, gravel roads, and those adorable sheep that appear out of nowhere.

I will even tell you a few stories along the way. Because Iceland is not just about driving. It is about the journey. And sometimes, about the ghosts.

So here is my advice. Check the forecast. Take your time. And let us get you there safely.

Esther Thorvalds
Episodes
  • Driving Through Iceland: Safe Driving

    Driving Through Iceland: Safe Driving
    Jul 4 2026

    I'm Esther, a driver guide currently on sick leave. I can't be out on the road, so I'm talking about it instead. This isn't a driving lesson. It's specifically about what's different in Iceland compared to other countries, and it's for tourists and anyone new here who wants to do a bit of responsible prep before heading out. Everything in it comes from my own observations on these roads and from my conversations with visitors from all over the world. If you're good and make it all the way to the end, you'll be rewarded with a ghost story!

    MY TOURS

    driving-through-iceland.netlify.app

    WEBSITES TO BOOKMARK AND NUMBERS TO SAVE

    Road conditions: road.is / +354 1777

    Weather: en.vedur.is

    Safety Tips: safetravel.is

    Emergency number: +354 112

    SUMMARY

    Roundabouts: The inner lane has the right of way. Outer lane yields.

    Speed limits: 90 on paved highways, 80 on gravel, 50 in towns.

    Red light: Never turn right on red. Red means stop.

    Honking: We do not do it out of anger, only to grab someone’s attention. Stay calm.

    Animals: Slow down for sheep, birds and horses. And reindeer. Never honk at horses.

    Seatbelts: Everyone, front and back, always.

    Headlights: On at all times. Front and back. Always.

    Right offshoots: For passing straight, not for waiting or stopping.

    Photo stops: Use the marked pull-offs. Never stop in the road.

    Blind rises: Slow early, stay right, never overtake.

    Alcohol: Zero tolerance. Even a tiny amount can ruin everything.

    Conditions: vedur.is and road.is. Check before every trip.

    Wind: Check the forecast, park facing the wind, hold your doors.

    Winter: 4x4 and winter tires. Watch for black ice on bridges and shaded roads.

    Stay on the road: Off-roading is illegal.

    F-roads and rivers: Leave it to the professionals. No insurance covers river damage.

    Elves and Mother Nature: Deserve your utmost respect.

    MUSIC

    Gufunes - EstHer, Keli
    Show More Show Less
    43 mins
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