Iceland

Safety and security

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.

• Dial 112 for police.
• Dial 112 for ambulance.
• Dial 112 for all emergencies, including Child Protective Services.

Crime

Iceland has a low crime rate with rare instances of violent crime. Use common sense so you do not become a victim.

• Crime rates continue to be lower than in most developed countries. Criminals do not usually target tourists.
• Iceland has very little crime, and almost no violent crime. People have a high standard of living, trust the police, and there are few social tensions. The police are well-trained and well-educated.
• The Reykjavik area has seen more petty crime and minor assaults as tourism grows. Reykjavik is Iceland’s only big city, but compared to U.S. cities, it is more like a large town. Crime rates are still much lower than in the United States or Europe.
• Police say most local petty crime involves youth, drug users, unhoused people, and tourists.
• Busy tourist areas now see more pickpocketing and small thefts. Police believe organized groups, sometimes from other European countries, commit many of these crimes. They often distract victims or use ATM scams to steal valuables, especially credit cards.

Higher-risk locations

• Golden Circle tourist sites: especially Þingvellir National Park, Strokkur Geyser, and Gullfoss Waterfall.
• Reykjavik city center: especially Skólavörðustígur, Laugavegur, and the area around Hallgrímskirkja church.
• ATMs and supermarkets: especially areas frequented by tourists and the elderly as prime targets.

Safety tips:

• Ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are always secure. 
• Use tap-to-pay apps on your phone whenever possible.
• Exercise caution at tourist sites or crowded areas.
• Credit cards are widely accepted at most places in Iceland, and it is not usually necessary to carry cash.  If you absolutely must use an ATM, the best choice is to go into a bank location.
• Do not leave your valuables in parked vehicles, even if the vehicle is locked.
• Downtown Reykjavik can become disorderly in the late night to early morning hours when people are leaving bars and clubs. Stay alert.
• For additional information, review the Country Security Report for Iceland.

Sexual assault and domestic violence

• U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault or domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy, and local law enforcement by dialing 112 for assistance. 

Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices:

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States.
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications. 
• Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks.
• It is illegal for tourists to use satellite phones in Iceland. Using one can lead to arrest and seizure of the device.

Drones

It is legal to fly a drone in Iceland, but strict regulations are in place. Review drone-specific regulations on the Icelandic Transport Authority website.

• All drone flyers must register with the Icelandic Transport Authority. Drones over 250 grams require passing an online exam.
• You need permission to fly in national parks and other protected areas.
• Do not fly over crowds, near airports (within 2 km), or government buildings. Maximum altitude is 120 meters (394 feet).

GPS

Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS. The fastest route is not always the safest.

• You can use regular GPS devices and GPS apps in Iceland. However, they may not be accurate in remote areas. Check your route with a local tourist center, carry a paper map, and tell local authorities your travel plans if you go to remote areas. You can register here.
• Always double-check any route your GPS suggests. Before driving on rough, unpaved mountain roads called “F-roads,” ask the nearest tourist center if the road is open and safe.

Arrest notification

• If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. embassy or consulate immediately. 

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations.

• Counterfeit goods, particularly imported ones like fake wool sweaters, are a problem in Iceland. It is illegal to bring counterfeit goods back into other countries, such as the United States, and purchasing them may also be against Icelandic law. 
• To buy genuine Icelandic wool sweaters, visit the Icelandic Hand Knitting Association, which is located on Rainbow Street, or go to the Kolaportið Flea Market on weekends.

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• U.S. Department of Justice

Faith-based travelers

Faith based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work.

Most faith-based travelers do not have problems in Iceland. However, there have been a few cases where tourists disrespected religious sites, such as walking into a church service at Hallgrímskirkja during worship.

Prepare for your travel using these resources: 

• Faith-Based Travel
• Volunteering Abroad
• International Religious Freedom Reports

Gay and lesbian travelers

There are no legal restrictions on consensual same-sex sexual relations, the provision of information or services to persons on the basis of real or perceived sexual orientation, or the organization of events focused on sexual orientation in Iceland.

• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with accessibility needs

The law in Iceland prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities and requires that public accommodations and government buildings, including elevators, be accessible to individuals with disabilities.

• All government buildings in Iceland are wheelchair accessible. This is also the case for most museums, malls, and large shopping centers in the capital area.
• The public bus system and taxis provide transportation services for individuals with disabilities.
• Many stores in the old downtown area in Reykjavik, such as around the popular shopping street of Laugavegur, are not wheelchair accessible.
• Many sidewalks in downtown Reykjavik lack curb ramps, and the streets are steep.
• Hotels outside Reykjavik and smaller hotels in the capital are not all accessible to individuals with disabilities.
• There are very few paths or marked trails at natural attractions found outside urban areas.

Planning and preparation before your trip

Visitors with disabilities may face challenges in Iceland. Outside of big cities, accessibility repair is limited. Plan ahead by arranging any needed repairs or spare parts before you travel. Consider bringing a manual wheelchair as a backup in case your power chair or scooter breaks down.

Iceland’s rough, uneven ground and many outdoor sites can be hard to navigate, especially if you need a lot of help walking or moving. Snow and ice, especially in winter, can make getting around even more difficult.

• Pre-arrange repairs: Contact the manufacturer of your mobility device before your trip to get information on local repair options or to arrange for spare parts to be sent ahead.
• Carry a manual chair: Pack a lightweight, manual wheelchair as a backup in case your electric device breaks down. A hotel concierge may be able to help with local rentals, but this should not be relied upon entirely.
• Confirm accessibility: Research accessibility in advance for all planned activities and accommodations and be aware of any limitations.
• Book accessible tours: If taking guided tours, work with tour operators like Guide to Iceland to ensure they can accommodate your needs. 
• Contact the U.S. embassy in Iceland to receive a list of providers.
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

Studying in Iceland is expensive, so make a budget and plan carefully.  

• Bring warm, waterproof clothing you can layer.
• Be ready to pay bills with cards instead of cash.
• Book your housing early and prepare to use public transit or bike in Reykjavík.
• Review our information on Studying Abroad.  

Women travelers 

Iceland is known to be one of the safest countries in the worlds for women and girls by the World Economic Forum (WEF) and Global Peace Index. It has a strong tradition of gender equality.

• Female travelers can move freely day and night without experiencing street harassment.
• Locals are generally welcoming, independent, and respectful, and used to  solo female travelers and groups. 
• You should still be aware of your surroundings and take common-sense precautions. Watch your bags and wallet in crowded tourist areas to avoid pickpockets.  
• Review our information for Women Travelers.
• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

Human rights

• Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for your destination prior to traveling.

Health

Health resources

• CDC Iceland Traveler information provides destination specific information on prevalent diseases and vaccination recommendations.
• CDC Medical Tourism information
• World Health Organization
• Medicine and Health
• Travel Insurance

Emergency phone numbers

• Dial 112 for emergency medical services.  

Ambulance services

Ambulance services are not present throughout the country or have long response times.

• Some ambulances are available in major population areas such as Reykjavik. 
• Iceland has air ambulance services, but they are limited by weather and distance to the patient.

Medical payments and insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses coverage abroad. Most U.S. plans do not.

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Medical care is not free in Iceland. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility.
• Lack of payment may bar future travel to Iceland.
• Most care providers overseas only accept cash or credit card payments.
• Hospitals often need payment up front or proof of good insurance before providing treatment or admitting a patient. 
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Vaccinations

Iceland does not require any specific vaccinations for entry.

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• CDC Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice

Healthcare facilities

Health facilities are available in Reykjavik and larger population centers. It may be harder to find adequate health care in rural areas.

• The U.S. embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals under the list of  local services. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.
• Hospitals and doctors often require payment upfront prior to service or admission. Patients bear all costs for transfer to or between hospitals if the patient is not a permanent resident or citizen of Iceland.
• Psychological and psychiatric services are available but in-patient care is frequently operating at capacity, and patients may require a wait-time for admission. Hospital-based care is only available in larger cities.

Medical tourism and elective surgery

Medical tourism is available in Iceland, particularly for those seeking specialized treatments like geothermal therapy, dermatology, and certain surgeries. This is often combined with a unique travel experience.

• While the country has high-quality healthcare, particularly in Reykjavik, travelers should be aware that the general costs of living in Iceland are higher than in the United States. It is expensive to seek medical care in Iceland.
• The country has a small healthcare system and rural areas have limited facilities. International patients coming to Iceland for medical tourism must  make all arrangements related to their stay. This includes living arrangements, appointments, choosing method of payment prior to travel, etc.
• Visit the CDC’s Medical Tourism website for information on medical tourism. Find out about the risks of medical tourism and what you can do to prepare before traveling to Iceland.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications.

Prescription medications

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.

• Check with the government of Iceland to ensure the medication is legal in Iceland.
• Review the CDC guidance on purchasing medicine overseas.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States.  If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally.

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States.

For more information:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Food and Drug Administration

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and surrogacy

Iceland has a well-developed system for ART, with fertility treatments like IVF and sperm donation available in the country.

• If you are considering traveling to Iceland to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please review our information on ART and Surrogacy Abroad.
• Icelandic law has prohibited surrogacy since 1996. This includes altruistic, commercial, gestational, and traditional surrogacy.

Water quality and food safety

Icelandic tap water is considered some of the cleanest and safest in the world. It is safe to drink. It is sourced from natural glaciers and springs, filtered through lava rock, and rarely requires chemicals.

• Hot water can sometimes have a mild sulfur (eggy) smell, but it is harmless. Cold water is fresh and odorless.
• It is better to use a reusable bottle than to buy bottled water there.
• The country's food safety standards are high. It incorporates European directives and the Icelandic Food and Veterinary Authority oversees it. 
• Studies indicate that fish for human consumption has low or non-detectable levels of certain perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). It is a safe source of protein.

Air quality

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations abroad.

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a 3-day forecast of expected air quality in Iceland.
• Review CDC’s Air Quality page for information about common air pollutants.
• Review IQAir for information about the world air quality index and health guidance.
• Review the Medicine and Health page for general health information, 

Air pollution

Iceland usually has clean air, but it can sometimes get polluted. Problems can come from nature, like volcanic eruptions and sandstorms. It can also come from people, like traffic (especially cars with studded tires), geothermal plants, and fireworks.

The main problems are tiny particles in the air and nitrogen dioxide, which can cause health issues, especially for people with asthma or other breathing problems.

• Volcanoes can release ash and gases, including sulfur dioxide, which can raise pollution levels.
•  Strong winds can also blow dry soil into the air, causing dusty conditions in the south and even around Reykjavík.
• Visit the Government of Iceland website for information on air quality.

Travel and transportation

Road conditions and safety

Road conditions and road safety can vary throughout the country.

• Most rural roads in Iceland are unpaved. Many roads outside the capital, especially those that run through the center of the country, are impassable in winter from October through April.
• Most urban roads, as well as Iceland’s national Route 1, the “ring road,” are paved. Many inland roads are unpaved, narrow and lack shoulders.
• Many bridges outside of Reykjavik are 1-lane. Slow down when approaching bridges to ensure there is no traffic approaching from the other side. If cars are approaching from both sides, the closest car to the bridge has the right-of-way.
• Roads in the highlands and other remote areas are only open during the summer.
• Driving can be hazardous, particularly in winter.
• Unfenced livestock is present, especially in summer. Animal-related road accidents can occur. Stay alert when driving at nighttime.
• Take extreme care when driving in rural areas during the winter. Daylight hours are limited and the weather and road conditions can change rapidly.

Advice when driving in remote areas

If you plan to drive in a remote area, including the highlands or roads designated as “F-roads”:

• Check road conditions.
• Use a 4-wheel-drive vehicle.
• Always inform someone of your travel plans.
• Bring a cell phone and sufficient supplies of fuel, water, and food.

Helpful links

• Information on road and weather conditions - Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration
• Road and Travel Conditions - Safe Travel Iceland
• Important tips for driving in Iceland - Safe Travel Iceland

Traffic laws 

You can use a valid U.S. driver’s license in Iceland to rent a car. However, you

• must present the original, physical copy of your license. Digital licenses are not accepted.
• Icelandic law requires drivers to always keep headlights on.
• Talking on cell phones while driving is prohibited, except when using a hands-free system. You could face a fine of 5,000 ISK (approximately $45).
• Driving under the influence of alcohol is a serious offense in Iceland. Drivers can be charged with a DIU with a blood alcohol level as low as .05%.
• Unless otherwise posted, the speed limit is 50 km/h in urban areas and 30 km/h in residential areas.
• In rural areas, the speed limit depends on the type of road. On dirt and gravel roads, the speed limit is 80 km/h (50 mph). On paved highways, the speed limit is 90 km/h (55 mph).
• It is illegal to turn right on a red light.
• In traffic circles, always yield to cars coming from the left or the inside lane.
• The use of seatbelts is mandatory in both the front and rear seats.
• Children under the age of 6 must be secured in a size and weight appropriate car seat.
• Drivers are held responsible for any passenger under the age of 15 not wearing a seatbelt.
• No one shorter than 140 centimeters, lighter than 40 kilograms (or 88 pounds), or younger than 12 years of age is allowed to ride in a front seat equipped with an airbag.
• Public transportation in Iceland is safe and reliable.

In case of a traffic accident

• Make sure everyone involved is safe and check for injuries.
• Call the general emergency number in Iceland: 112. Call immediately if there are any injuries or if the accident is a major hazard.
• If possible, move the vehicle to a safe location. Turn on hazard lights and put on your reflective vest if you have one.
• Place a warning triangle to alert other drivers. 
• If you are in a rental car, contact the rental company's 24/7 emergency assistance number immediately to report the accident and vehicle damage. 

Taxis and ride-shares

Taxis are available in Reykjavik and other larger towns and are generally safe.

• Be cautious of “wild west” freelance taxis and avoid them. Always insist on paying by card and getting a receipt. 
• Taxis must be called or booked through an app like Hopp or Hreyfill.
• Taxis accept credit cards and cash, but it’s best to confirm payment methods beforehand. Taxis can be expensive.
• Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft do not operate in Iceland. They operate in Reykjavík, nearby suburbs, and at Keflavík airport.
• The Hopp app works like Uber, showing car locations, arrival times, and price estimates before you book. It is an eco-friendly option with a fleet of electric or carbon-neutral vehicles.
• Samferda is a carpooling website for budget-friendly travel to remote destinations where ride sharing is not available. Users can find drivers posting available seats for trips. 

Public and commercial transportation

The public bus system (Strætó) is considered safe, reliable, and a cost- effective, particularly within Reykjavík.

• You can pay for fares through the Strætó app, by using a bus card, or with a contactless credit card.
• Outside of Reykjavík, distances can be long and isolated. Buses are not always a practical option for travel between cities. 
• Visit the website of Iceland’s national tourist office and national authority responsible for road safety.
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad. 

Aviation safety oversight

• The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has found that Iceland’s Civil Aviation Authority meets international standards for aviation safety oversight.  
• FAA’s website includes more information on its assessment program.

Maritime travel

Mariners and passengers planning travel to Iceland should check the following: 

• U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Advisories
• MARAD Active Maritime Alerts
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings

Weather and natural disasters

Weather conditions

Iceland’s main natural disasters include volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and severe weather events like high wind, storms, and floods. 

Volcanoes

• Volcanic activity is particularly common, with recent eruptions on the Reykjanes Peninsula and associated hazards such as lava flows, gas emissions, and glacial outburst floods (jökulhlaups). 

Landslides

• Landslides and avalanches are common in fjords and coastal areas.  

Rainfall and snowstorms 

• Strong winds, rainfall, snowstorms, and blizzards are most likely to occur in the fall and winter from October to March. These events are often a result of the country's changeable and unpredictable climate. You can experience sun, rain, and snow on the same day.

Embassies and consulates