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February 12, 2026
Iceland offers an amazing selection of natural wonders, but reaching these destinations isn't always what you’d call ‘easy.’ Most of the central Highlands are hidden behind rugged, unpaved roads that can be rough, lightly maintained, and even closed off during the winter months.
These Fjallvegur roads, usually referred to as F-Roads, are extremely rough, often bordering on treacherous. If you want to drive on these roads, you’ll need more than your average front-wheel drive. In fact, 4x4s are mandatory.
Here’s everything you should know about the best 4x4 rentals for conquering Iceland’s iconic F-roads.
By law, you can’t tour the F-Roads in anything other than a 4x4 vehicle. This is due to the more challenging nature of the trails and the demands they can place on travel.
Regular rental vehicles can struggle on these roads or even find them impassible. In contrast, 4x4s can not only get you across the rough terrain, but also increase the quality and comfort of your experience.
That’s because a 4x4 offers many things that other vehicles don’t:

Choosing a 4x4 rental to carry your group and gear can set the stage for a great Icelandic experience. Get it right, and your greatest struggle will be snapping the perfect photos. Get it wrong, and you may have an unpleasant, uncomfortable, or even dangerous experience.
Here are some F-Road suitable car rental options to consider for your next big visit to Iceland:
All of these are excellent vehicles, but you may feel yourself drawn more to one over the others. Be sure to review each vehicle’s seat capacity, fuel type, and additional rental options to make your trip even more enjoyable.
Because F-Roads involve slow, cautious driving, choosing the right rental vehicle often comes down to the type of experience you want.
Are you planning on taking lots of pictures? While admiring the amazing, wide-open spaces, you may want an SUV that sits higher up for better shots.
If you’re planning a longer Highland adventure, a 4x4 campervan can be a practical option. It gives you the clearance and capability needed for F-Road driving, while also providing extra space for gear, rest stops, and overnight camping in designated areas.

To experience Iceland’s most remote, out-of-the-way adventures, you must first sit at the helm of a properly sized 4x4 vehicle. The F-Roads may take a little more time and a more capable vehicle, but they offer unique memories that will last for a lifetime.
The best place to start is with a 4x4 rental from GO Iceland. We make it easy to book the perfect 4WD for your needs, offering:
Pick your vehicle and book with GO Iceland today.
You can expect daily rates to range between $50 and $200 USD per day. However, you’ll enjoy much lower prices in Iceland’s off-season, which ranges from the end of fall to the beginning of spring.
4x4 vehicles tend to use more fuel than front-wheel drives, often around 25% to 40% more fuel than normal (around 10 to 15L per 100 km). So for a typical day trip covering 150 km to 250 km of F-Roads, plan for at least a full tank before entering the Highlands. Ideally, carry a 10 to 20L spare can as well.
The best 4x4 rental companies, including GO Iceland, provide CDW insurance that comes as standard with your rental. However, this doesn’t necessarily cover everything you might experience on an F-Road. You may want to consider additional insurance covering:
Learn more about the types of car insurance you may need in Iceland.
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