Hey there, from your local Icelandic motorhome experts! If you're reading this, you're planning a memorable trip across our magical island and probably asking like so many before you, “Does Google Maps work in Iceland?”
But rest assured, as locals tasked with putting people on the road, we’ll be your personal guides to navigating the Land of Fire and Ice. Here’s what you need to know:
Can You Use Google Maps in Iceland?
You’ll be glad to hear that Google Maps functions sufficiently in Iceland. Whether you are landing at Keflavik International or embarking on a Ring Road adventure, searching for that elusive hot spring you saw on some influencer’s Instagram account, or want to find your way in Reykjavik, Google Maps has got you covered.
This is also why phone holders and chargers are often provided in rental vehicles, as we know many prefer to navigate using their mobile phones, and we want to ensure that you have a tech-savvy travel experience.
But there is something you’ll need to keep in mind when road-tripping through our beautiful country: Iceland’s no ordinary place for a road trip. Our land's untamed, our weather shifts quicker than a Puffin dives, and our roads have a "special charm."
Google Maps will safely direct you to most spots here on the island, but following it mindlessly, especially in our more remote regions, can land you in some hot water (quite literally, with our hot springs scattered all across the country).
Is Google Maps Reliable for Driving in Iceland?
This, of course, is the real question! While Google Maps may work in Iceland, does it really work well? Here’s the lowdown:
Accuracy of Google Maps for Major Roads and Attractions
When it comes to main routes and tourist hotspots, Google Maps does a great job. The Ring Road (aka Route 1) is a great example. It is essentially the main logistical artery of the island, so it’s well-maintained and much traveled. Reykjavik is also not difficult to locate since it’s the capital city of the country.
You can also explore the Golden Circle without much concern or travel down the south coast, visiting Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and checking out waterfalls. So, rest assured, if you stick to our major roads and attractions, Google Maps is not likely to give you any problems.
Navigating F-Roads and Highlands – Where Google Maps Can Fail
Now, let's chat about those F-roads - our challenging Highland routes that go into Iceland's wild core. This is where things can get interesting. Google Maps might suggest these mountain tracks as good routes, but here's the catch: they're summer-only roads, accessible only with 4x4 vehicles (according to law!), and these remote roads can also suddenly close whenever nature decides.
We've helped many tourists who trusted Google Maps too much and unknowingly wound up on F-roads. Others suddenly lost signal on their rough-and-tough road trip adventures and got lost (but more on this a little later). When dealing with the F-roads and some of our other more remote roads, do proper research and come well-prepared – this includes mental preparation, the right gear, as well as a rental vehicle.
The Importance of Checking Umferdin for Real-Time Road Conditions
Iceland's roads bend to nature's will, irrespective of season. And, like anywhere else in the world, the unforeseen do tend to happen. So, be sure to check Umferdin (our official Road Administration website) for up-to-date conditions before heading out. Google Maps may be reliable for basic navigation in Iceland, but it won't warn you if your planned mountain route has turned into a makeshift ski run overnight.
Offline Maps: How to Use Google Maps Without Internet in Iceland
Now we’re getting the most important stuff regarding using Google Maps in Iceland. Technology and signals fail, so how do you ensure you stay on track? Well, downloaded offline maps is the way to go. Here’s what you need to know:
How to Download Offline Maps for Iceland Before Your Trip
Although you can get a decent mobile signal on Route 1 and in towns, your smartphone can become a fancy brick in our more remote regions, such as the Highlands and the Westfjords. So, while still back home and connected to the internet, or even while in Iceland and connected to your hotel’s WiFi, we highly recommend downloading offline maps of the areas you’re planning to travel. Here’s how:
- Go to Google Maps.
- Click on your profile picture.
- Select ‘Offline Maps.’
- Then click on ‘Select Your Own Map.’
- Adjust the map area you want to download based on your needs and requirements.
- Tap on ‘Download.’
Now you will always be able to get directions just by the click of a button. To access your downloaded maps again, simply do the following:
- Go to Google Maps.
- Click on your profile picture.
- Select ‘Offline Maps.’
- Click on the map you want to view.
What Offline Google Maps Covers (and What It Doesn't)
With offline maps, you will be able to navigate through the basics, but will not be able to see any traffic patterns, closed roads, or even get alternative routes in case a flock of sheep obstructs the route. You also can't get walking paths, bike routes, or bus times offline.
Offline maps are essential, but they still can’t replace area familiarity and official real-time updates. So, when relying on your offline Google Maps, you’ll need a bit of flexibility (so sudden, unexpected hiccups along the way don’t entirely derail your road trip) as well as some patience.
Google Maps vs. Other Navigation Apps in Iceland
How does Google Maps match up to other navigation apps in Iceland? Here’s what you need to know:
Comparing Google Maps with Waze, Maps.me, and Garmin GPS
Travelers often ask us: "Should I use Google Maps or try something different?" Here's what we know:
- Waze: Works well in cities and on main roads, but it's of little help in remote areas. Waze relies on people to use it and report what's happening, and our Highland trolls aren't particularly tech-savvy. Additionally, you must be online at all times to use it.
- Maps.me: Works perfectly for finding hiking routes and secret sites and remains functional even without an internet connection. However, some say its navigation is less reliable than Google Maps. So, perhaps it’s best to keep it for those hiking adventures.
- Garmin GPS: Old but reliable. Many of our rentals come with Garmin units that already have Iceland maps loaded. It's great when you want to do a double-check or your phone runs out of juice.
Best Navigation App for Different Types of Road Trips
If you’re wondering which of the apps mentioned above should be your go-to on specific routes or in particular regions, we recommend the following:
- Main roads and routes such as the Ring Road or Golden Circle: Google Maps is your best friend, and you’re likely to have an online connection all the way. As mentioned, Maps.me is a good option if you're planning to go hiking.
- Remote roads and regions, such as the Highlands and the Westfjords: Use Google Maps to navigate along the route, but remember to download the offline maps, as you’ll likely need them. Maps.me is still a good idea if you're planning on going hiking, but, once again, remember that you’ll need to be prepared for offline navigation.
Hot Tip: Have another backup! While Google Maps works along most main roads and in most cities and towns in Iceland, and downloading offline maps can save your butt in our more remote regions, it’s always good to have another backup in the form of an old-school hard copy map. With these guys, you never have to worry about signals, and they never run out of power!)
Common Google Maps Mistakes to Avoid in Iceland
If this will be your first time traversing the island, the following tips on common Google Maps mistakes will be extremely helpful:
Double-Check Directions for F-Roads (No Matter What Google Maps Says!)
F-roads aren't like your average American backroad or European country lane. Even when Google Maps directs you, double-check your vehicle's 4-wheel drive capability as well as the current state of the road. Google Maps may not be up to date with current road conditions or even annual closures. And, as mentioned before, these roads offer summer adventures, but in winter, they're pretty much a straight shot to our rescue teams.
Avoid Getting Misdirected on Private Roads
Google Maps might show tempting shortcuts through private land, but here's a tip from locals: when you see signs saying "Einkaland" (Private) or "Óviðkomandi Bannaður" (No Entry), that's your signal to head back – irrespective of what your “navigator” tells you. In Iceland, we’re generally happy to share our waterfalls and views but not our driveways!
Why Relying Only on Google Maps Can Be Risky in Winter
Our winter wonderland scenes resemble something that should adorn postcards, but, in true Icelandic fashion, our winters can also be as tough as a Viking. The state of roads is more prone to transform from drivable to closed faster than you can say “Eyjafjallajökull”.
Although Google Maps is functional in Iceland, not everything in the Land of Fire and Ice is accurately flagged. Sudden road closures due to storms, ice, and volcanic eruptions will first appear on the Umferdin website. And if you’re still unsure, please don’t hesitate to contact our rental counter for a few local insights (and perhaps a few funny warning stories).
Pro Tips for Using Google Maps on an Iceland Road Trip
Before we say our official goodbyes, here are a few final words of wisdom:
Remember to Check BOTH Road Closures and the Weather Before Heading Out
It’s not just road conditions that can impact your drive, so get into the habit of checking Umferdin and Vedur every morning with your coffee. Google Maps may indicate the presence of a straight route, but Mother Nature might have different ideas. And when we say “impassable,” we mean it, no matter how tough you think your rental is.
You’ll Need to Understand Iceland’s Speed Limits and Road Signs Beyond Google Maps
Although Google Maps displays speed limits on main roads, these limits can change just as rapidly as our Northern Lights appear. This quick change can often occur near towns, schools, or areas where sheep tend to cause traffic congestion. Look out, and also bear in mind that Icelanders do not look kindly on rulebreakers.
Our traffic fines may very well require you to remortgage your house (starting at $435, roughly €400). If you’re feeling uncertain about our speed limits or road signs, you can read up on Iceland’s speed limits and the road signs you’ll find in Iceland, or ask us – we’re always happy to assist.
Plan Refueling at Gas Stations and Rest Stops Along Your Route Beforehand
Google Maps shows gas stations, but in our more remote areas, they tend to be few and far between. So, top up your tank whenever you can, especially before heading out to more remote regions like the Highlands and the Westfjords, and plan out your stops to avoid being left stranded with an empty tank somewhere along the road.
It’s also a good idea to have an extra canister of gas in case you ever need an emergency top-up, should such a situation arise. Also, get a few extra rations of snacks and top up your water bottle at the gas station, so you at least don’t need to worry about thirst or hunger if you ever find yourself in an emergency situation in our remote areas, where rescue can take some time.
Conclusion: Is Google Maps Enough to Navigate Iceland?
So, is Google Maps enough to navigate Iceland? Google Maps is definitely fully functioning and reliable, especially when exploring our main roads and towns, and when using downloaded offline maps. However, tech is not always faultless, and signals can fail, so use all our backup hacks to keep you safe on the road during your road trip around the country.
To enjoy and experience the safest adventure, we recommend using Google Maps in conjunction with local knowledge, hard copy maps, and daily check-ins regarding weather and road conditions.
Just remember that there are plenty of safety nets if you ever find yourself in a spot of trouble. Whether it’s others driving past, our friendly rescue teams on patrol throughout the remote regions, or you calling us or the emergency number (it’s 112, so be sure to save it!) – friendly help and assistance are always near.
So, rent your motorhome in Iceland and follow our helpful advice for the road trip of a lifetime. Safe travels!
