How to share the road with farm traffic
February 8, 2026 · Travel Tips
Traveling through Westfjords and West Iceland offers breathtaking scenery—but you may share the road with farm traffic like tractors or sheep trucks. Learning how to drive safely around them makes your journey more relaxed and memorable.
Why farm traffic matters
Farming is a way of life in Iceland’s countryside. Farmers move equipment and livestock between fields, especially in spring and autumn. Respecting their pace keeps everyone safe.
Top tips for sharing the road
- Slow down: Reduce speed when you spot flashing hazard lights or a slow-moving vehicle ahead.
- Keep your distance: Stay at least three seconds behind to avoid startling animals or damaging crops.
- Be patient: Wait for a safe, clear stretch to overtake—farmers appreciate the courtesy.
- Watch for signals: Farmers often use hand gestures or flash headlights before turning off or pulling over.
- Communicate gently: A quick, courteous honk lets them know you’d like to pass, but avoid wild beeping.
What to pack
- Reflective vest or high-visibility clothing
- Portable warning triangle
- Basic first-aid kit
- Warm layers and waterproof outerwear
- Non-perishable snacks and water
When to go and how long to stay
- Best season: June–August for long daylight; May and September for fewer crowds.
- Recommended stay: 2–3 nights at a countryside base to explore farm roads and nearby attractions.
Where to stay
Make Ourhotels.is your home-away-from-home. At Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður (close to Borgarnes), you’ll enjoy cozy rooms, hearty breakfasts, and river views. Or opt for the Truck Inn at Hvítá—a fun, trucking-themed lodge right beside the ring road.
What to do nearby
- Soak in the Deildartunguhver hot spring
- Wander among the Barnafoss and Hraunfossar waterfalls
- Savor local lamb and dairy treats at farm cafés
- Explore hiking trails through rolling farmlands
With these tips in hand and a cozy room booked via Ourhotels.is, you’re all set for a safe, uplifting journey through Iceland’s charming farm country. Book now and make your Icelandic adventure unforgettable!