Exploring the highland of Iceland is an adventure with magnificent views, wild landscapes, and an adrenaline-pumping experience in F-road driving(Mountain road driving). It really matters what 4×4 vehicle you choose.
This article will help you choose the best Iceland car rental for your Icelandic Highland adventure by considering the pros and cons of each choice and previewing the types of roads you may travel on and practical tips for a safe and enjoyable trip.
Why 4WD rental car is a must for Iceland highland road trip?
The Icelandic Highlands are known for their challenging terrain, including gravel roads, steep inclines, and river crossings. Unlike the more traveled Iceland Ring Road, F-roads (mountain roads) are often unpaved and can be tough to navigate. These roads are only open during the summer months(Mid June to August) due to harsh winter conditions.
For detailed information on navigating these challenging roads, check out our Iceland F-Road Guide which provides essential tips for driving on these remote and rugged paths.
Seasonal Road Accessibility
Highland roads are typically open from June to August. Before you set out, always check current road conditions at road.is and ensure that the roads you plan to travel are open and safe.
Safety Considerations
Drive in Iceland highlands requires preparation and caution. Ensure your vehicle is equipped with essential safety features and always carry supplies such as extra fuel, food, water, and warm clothing. It’s also wise to inform someone about your travel plans and expected return time.
For a comprehensive list of safety tips and essential preparations, refer to our blog on safe travel tips in Iceland.
Top 4WD Rentals from Hertz Iceland for Highland Adventures
1.King of the Highland for a Luxury Road Trip: 4WD Land Rover Defender
- Pros: Exceptional comfort, advanced F-road capabilities, premium interior.
- Cons: Higher rental cost, fuel consumption.
- Ideal For: Travelers seeking a luxurious experience with maximum comfort.
- Why It’s Great: The Land Rover Defender is perfect for those who want to explore the highlands in style, offering unparalleled F-road performance and a luxurious cabin. This beast comes with a 3.0-liter turbocharged engine, producing 395 horsepower, and features like blind-spot alert, surround-view camera, and a top-speed capability of 119 mph, ensuring both power and safety during your adventure .
- Check out Hertz Iceland’s Land Rover Defender
2.Spacious and Powerful for Group Travel: 4WD Toyota Land Cruiser
- Pros: Spacious interior, powerful engine, reliable performance.
- Cons: Larger size can be tricky on narrow roads, higher rental cost.
- Ideal For: Larger groups or families with extensive luggage.
- Why It’s Great: Known for its reliability and space, the Toyota Land Cruiser is ideal for groups needing extra room without compromising on power or comfort. It boasts a powerful V8 engine, robust 4WD capabilities, and ample cargo space, making it perfect for long journeys across Iceland’s rugged terrain.
- Check out Hertz Iceland’s 5 seats Toyota Land Cruiser and Toyota Land Cruiser 7 seater
3.Comfort and Convenience on the Go: Toyota Hilux Camper
- Pros: Integrated sleeping area, essential amenities, 4WD capabilities.
- Cons: Limited interior space for passengers, higher rental cost (but you can split it with 2 others!)
- Ideal For: Campers and long-term explorers seeking convenience and mobility.
- Why It’s Great: Combining the ruggedness of the Hilux with the convenience of a camper, this vehicle is ideal for extended stays in the highlands. It offers a comfortable sleeping area and essential amenities, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature without sacrificing comfort.
- Check out Hertz Iceland’s Toyota Hilux Camper| 4×4 | Sleeps 3
4.Best Budget-Friendly Compact SUV: Dacia Duster
- Pros: Affordable, compact size, good fuel efficiency.
- Cons: Smaller interior space, manual transmission.
- Ideal For: Budget-conscious travelers, best for 2 people.
- Why It’s Great: The Dacia Duster offers an affordable way to explore the highlands without sacrificing the 4WD capability needed for F-roads. It’s a compact SUV that provides excellent fuel efficiency and easy maneuverability on Iceland’s narrow and winding roads.
- Check out Hertz Iceland’s New Dacia Duster
5.Affordable and Reliable for Small Groups: KIA Sorento
- Pros: Automatic transmission, spacious interior, cost-effective.
- Cons: Mid-range F-road capability, limited luggage space for larger groups.
- Ideal For: Groups of 3-4 travelers looking for a cost-effective option.
- Why It’s Great: The KIA Sorento provides a balance of affordability and space, making it a great choice for small groups. It features a reliable 4WD system and a comfortable interior, ensuring a smooth ride through the highlands.
- Check out Hertz Iceland’s KIA Sorento 4WD automatic
6. Perfect for Bigger Groups: VW Caravelle 9-Seater or Similar
- Pros: Ample seating, spacious interior, suitable for large groups.
- Cons: Manual transmission, can be cumbersome on narrow roads.
- Ideal For: Bigger groups requiring ample seating and space.
- Why It’s Great: This vehicle is perfect for large groups, offering plenty of space and the necessary 4WD features to tackle highland roads. The VW Caravelle is equipped to handle the rugged terrain while providing a comfortable and spacious ride for up to nine passengers.
- Check out Hertz Iceland’s 4×4 VW Caravelle 9 seater
Types of Roads in the Icelandic Highlands
- Gravel Roads: Gravel roads in the highlands can be challenging, especially for those not used to F-road driving. They are often bumpy and filled with potholes. Driving slowly and carefully is essential to avoid damage to your vehicle.
- River Crossings: River crossings drive are one of the most challenging aspects of driving in the highlands. It’s crucial to assess the depth and flow of the river before attempting to cross. If in doubt, it’s safer to find an alternative route.
- Mountain Passes: Mountain passes can be steep and narrow, requiring careful navigation. These roads offer stunning views but demand concentration and a capable vehicle.
For more tips on navigating these tricky roads, check out our detailed guides on Thorsmork and the Laugavegur Trail, two popular highland destinations.
Practical Information for Highland Travel
Checking Road Conditions Always check the latest road conditions on road.is or the SafeTravel (safetravel.is) website. These resources provide real-time updates on road closures, weather conditions, and other essential information.
Before you arrive, learn more about the Icelandic road system and road conditions making sure you know what you might be facing.
Safety Tips for Highland Driving
- Drive slowly on gravel roads to avoid skidding.
- Be cautious at river crossings; if the water is too high, do not attempt to cross.
- Inform someone about your travel plans and expected return time.
- Carry emergency numbers, including the Icelandic emergency number (112) and your rental company’s contact information.
Navigational Tools and Apps Use reliable maps and GPS devices. Apps like SafeTravel.is provide real-time updates on road conditions and weather, ensuring you stay informed during your trip.
Renting with Hertz Iceland
Booking Process Booking a vehicle with Hertz Iceland is straightforward. Visit our website, select your preferred vehicle, and choose your rental dates. We offer a wide range of 4WD vehicles suitable for the highlands.
Insurance and Coverage Options Hertz Iceland provides various insurance packages to protect you against potential damages. We recommend opting for MAX coverage with 0 excess , especially if you plan to drive on F-roads.
Customer Support and Assistance Our KEF airport rental desk is open 24/7; with a emergency phone support to assist you with any queries or issues you may encounter during your rental period. We aim to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all our customers.
Best rental car for Iceland highland
Embark on a memorable highland adventure with Hertz Iceland’s top 4WD vehicles. Whether you seek luxury, space, or rugged capability, we have the perfect car for your journey through Iceland’s stunning highlands.
For more detailed information on vehicle options, visit Hertz Iceland Vehicle Guide and explore the diverse fleet available. To learn more about Iceland’s highlands and plan your trip, check out our Iceland Highlands Guide.
By choosing the right vehicle and being well-prepared, you can ensure a safe and unforgettable adventure through Iceland’s breathtaking highlands.
