Traveling at night in Iceland can be magical: the roads are quieter, the sky is darker, and your chances of seeing the Northern Lights are much higher. But the same elements that make night travel so special—remote landscapes, changing weather, and long stretches of darkness—also mean you need to be extra prepared.
Here are practical safety tips for night travel in Iceland, along with how staying at Ourhotels.is properties like Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður, Stykkishólmur Inn, and Ísafjörður Inn can make your journey safer and more comfortable.
Night driving in Iceland: what to expect
Iceland’s roads, especially in the west and the Westfjords, can be narrow, winding, and sometimes unpaved. In winter, darkness can last most of the day, and even in summer, fog and sudden weather changes are common. Distances between towns can be long, and services are limited at night. Planning ahead is essential.
Check weather and road conditions before you go
Before any night drive, always check:
– Weather: Use vedur.is for up-to-date forecasts, wind speeds, and warnings.
– Road conditions: Use road.is to see closures, ice, snow, and gravel sections.
If conditions look poor—strong winds, heavy snow, or icy roads—consider delaying your trip or shortening your route. One of the advantages of staying with Ourhotels.is is that our local staff can help you interpret conditions and suggest safer alternatives or adjusted plans.
Plan realistic distances and avoid rushing
Night travel in Iceland should never be a race. Distances that seem short on a map can take much longer due to weather, road type, and frequent photo stops. Aim to arrive at your accommodation before it gets too late, especially in winter.
For example:
– Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður is a great base if you’re driving from Reykjavík towards the west or the north. Instead of pushing on late into the night, you can stop here, rest, and continue in daylight.
– Stykkishólmur Inn is ideal if you’re exploring the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Rather than driving back to Reykjavík in the dark, you can stay overnight and enjoy a calmer, safer journey the next day.
– Ísafjörður Inn in the Westfjords lets you break up long, winding drives through fjords and mountain passes, which are far more demanding at night.
Prepare your car properly
Whether you’re in a rental car or your own vehicle, make sure it’s ready for Icelandic conditions:
– Lights: Check that all headlights, taillights, and indicators work properly. Use low beams in fog or heavy snow.
– Tires: In winter, ensure you have proper winter tires (often studded). In summer, good tread is still essential for wet or gravel roads.
– Fuel: Never let your tank get too low; gas stations can be far apart, especially in the Westfjords.
– Emergency kit: Keep warm clothing, a blanket, water, snacks, a phone charger, and a reflective vest in the car.
If you’re unsure about your route or car readiness, staff at Ourhotels.is properties are happy to help you check conditions and plan safe driving times.
Drive slower than you think you need to
Speed limits in Iceland are not targets—they’re maximums under ideal conditions. At night, especially on unfamiliar or rural roads, it’s wise to go slower:
– Watch for animals: Sheep, horses, and even Arctic foxes can appear suddenly on or near the road.
– Be careful on gravel: Many roads in the west and Westfjords are gravel; braking distances are longer, and it’s easier to lose control.
– Expect sudden changes: Patches of ice, potholes, and sharp bends can appear with little warning in the dark.
Taking your time not only keeps you safer but also makes the journey more enjoyable.
Respect single-lane bridges and tunnels
In western Iceland and the Westfjords, you’ll encounter single-lane bridges and sometimes single-lane tunnels. At night, it’s crucial to:
– Slow down well in advance.
– Look for oncoming headlights.
– Yield according to the signs (arrows show who has priority).
If you’re unsure, stop and let the other car go first. It’s always better to be cautious.
Use pull-outs for photo and aurora stops
Night travel in Iceland often means chasing the Northern Lights or stopping to admire the stars. Never stop in the middle of the road or on a blind corner. Instead:
– Use designated parking areas or safe gravel pull-outs.
– Turn on hazard lights if you’re close to the road.
– Make sure all passengers exit on the side away from traffic.
Staying at places like Hvítá Inn, Stykkishólmur Inn, or Ísafjörður Inn also gives you the option to watch the sky from or near your accommodation, reducing the need for long night drives just to see the aurora.
Dress for the conditions, even if you’re “just driving”
It’s easy to underestimate how quickly conditions can change. If you need to step out of the car, help someone, or wait for assistance, you’ll be glad you dressed warmly:
– Wear layers, including a windproof and waterproof outer layer.
– Bring a hat, gloves, and warm socks.
– Keep sturdy shoes or boots in the car.
Ourhotels.is properties are used to guests arriving from long drives and can offer a warm place to relax, dry out, and recover from challenging conditions.
Stay connected and share your plans
Mobile coverage in Iceland is generally good but can be patchy in remote areas, especially in the Westfjords. To stay safe:
– Charge your phone fully before departure.
– Consider an Icelandic SIM or good roaming plan.
– Share your travel plan and expected arrival time with someone—this could be a friend, family member, or your next hotel.
If you’re staying at Hvítá Inn, Stykkishólmur Inn, or Ísafjörður Inn, you can let the reception know your approximate arrival time. If you’re delayed due to weather or road conditions, they’ll understand and can offer advice when you call.
Know when not to drive
One of the most important safety tips is knowing when to stop. If you’re:
– Extremely tired
– Facing worsening weather or poor visibility
– Uncomfortable with icy or gravel roads in the dark
Then it’s safer to pause your journey. This might mean staying an extra night or adjusting your route. Ourhotels.is locations in west Iceland are well-placed for flexible itineraries, allowing you to break up long drives and avoid pushing through dangerous conditions.
How Ourhotels.is supports safe night travel in west Iceland
Choosing the right places to stay can make night travel in Iceland much safer and more enjoyable:
– Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður (near Borgarnes): A convenient stop when heading between Reykjavík and the west or north. It’s ideal for avoiding late-night drives over longer stretches and gives you easy access to nearby attractions in daylight.
– Stykkishólmur Inn: Perfect for exploring the Snæfellsnes Peninsula without rushing. You can enjoy the peninsula by day, return to a cozy base at night, and step outside to look for the Northern Lights without long nighttime drives.
– Ísafjörður Inn: A comfortable base in the heart of the Westfjords, where roads can be demanding, especially after dark. Staying here lets you explore the dramatic fjords and mountain passes in safer daylight hours.
At all Ourhotels.is properties, you’ll find local knowledge, comfortable rooms, and a welcoming atmosphere—exactly what you need after a long day (or night) on the road.
Traveling safely at night in Iceland is all about preparation, patience, and smart planning. By checking conditions, driving carefully, dressing properly, and choosing well-located accommodations like Hvítá Inn, Stykkishólmur Inn, and Ísafjörður Inn, you can enjoy the magic of Iceland’s nights while staying safe and relaxed.
