Travel in Iceland needs a bit more preparation than expected because it is mainly countryside that you’re dealing with.
Here is a list of things to consider while travelling in this beautiful country.
- WEATHER – Always check what you are heading into before you start to travel in Iceland, especially in winter. This could make a big difference to your trip. Weather in Iceland demands respect. Check out vedur.is for forecasts.
- REFUELLING – There are service stations all over the country and most within a good distance of each other. Make sure of the distances between places before setting off. You will have to spend around 10 000 kr to fill a tank of a small petrol car in Iceland.
- CLOTHING – While in Iceland, it is wise to have some rain gear with you as well as a warm jacket. The weather changes quite rapidly here. Therefore, it is good to prepare yourself for all kinds of weather.
- TOILETS – Some are free, some you have to pay for. All service stations have facilities as well as main tourist attractions. Keep in mind that there might not be a toilet at every stop you make.
- LITTER – Most travel in Iceland occurs outside urban areas where there are no garbage bins for your rubbish. Keep a plastic bag with you to collect any rubbish you make until you reach a service station. There you can dispose of it.
- PATHS AND SIGNS – These are all for your information and safety, so stick to the paths and follow to the signs. Most tourist signs will be in English and Icelandic or will be in the form of an icon or picture. Not difficult to understand.
- SAFE TRAVEL – For your own peace of mind, register with this website. In case of an emergency call 112.
- CONSCIOUS TOURISM – The Icelandic nature is not used to being trampled upon and is sensitive in parts. Please show respect by not taking any pieces of Iceland with you. Be careful not to enter private land without permission. In Iceland, camping is allowed in camping sites only. International driving rules apply to Iceland so please, no stopping on roads to take pictures. This is highly dangerous and has caused fatal accidents.
If you want more practical information such as currency, opening hours, emergency numbers, public transport, here you have some.
Currency
The currency used in Iceland is the Icelandic Krona (ISK) and can be purchased at the international airport and all major banks. For exchange rates, see www.landsbankinn.com or www.arionbanki.com.
Opening Hours
- Banks Mon–Fri 09–16
- Shops Mon–Fri 09–18, Sat 10–16
- Supermarkets Daily 10–19
- Convenience Stores 24 / 7
- Liquor Stores Mon–Thu 11–18, Fri 11–19, Sat 11–18
Emergency phone numbers
- Emergency 112
- Doctor on call 1770
- Police 444 1000
- Pharmacy 533 2300
- Road conditions 1777 / 522 1100
- International directory 1811
- International flights 425 6000
- Domestic flights 570 3030
- City buses 540 2700
- Taxi Hreyfill 588 5522
Here you can find our recommendations regarding some useful apps. They can keep you up to date with the most important information about Iceland.
And now…go and enjoy!