This article is in partnership with the Icelandic Transport Authority.
Iceland’s roads are beautiful, but they can also be treacherous, especially for first-time visitors.
The truth of the matter is, driving here requires a bit of a different mindset then what you might have at home.
Thankfully, there are many ways to prepare before your arrival.
For one, we have this delightful animated series starring Elfis. He’s an elf with a high-vis vest guide and the determination to teach visitors the do’s and don’ts of driving in Iceland.
The series was produced nearly a decade ago now, but its lessons remain as true today as they did then.
Produced in collaboration with Samgöngustofa—known to English speakers as the Icelandic Transport Authority—these cartoons offer bite-sized lessons on staying safe behind the wheel… and more laughter than you might expect from a safety appeal.
Then again, Elfis is not your typical Huldufólk. Watch, laugh, and learn.
Episode by Episode
Dangers on Icelandic Roads?
This extended episode sets the tone: Iceland is full of natural beauty—and unnatural driving conditions.
From flying gravel to sheep on the road, Elfis walks us through the key hazards with exaggerated charm and a few near-misses.
Winter Driving in Iceland
Snow, ice, wind, and the occasional complete whiteout.
This chilly clip captures the perils of winter driving in Iceland, with Elfis braving conditions that would send most cars straight into a snowdrift.
Visibility While Driving in Iceland
Parking on the side of the road… probably one of the biggest no-no’s there is when it comes to driving here.
Drivers already have to content with fog, sun glare, or horizontal rain. They don’t need a stationary car suddenly appearing around the bend!
Even if it looks like no-one is around, you never know when another vehicle is heading your way.
Speed Limits
Speeding in Iceland? Not clever.
Elfis goes over different speed limits and signs you should be aware of during your time in Iceland.
He also makes himself familiar with a family of tourists…
Gravel Roads
Spoiler alert. There’s a crash incoming…
Elfis has a lesson for you here; not all roads in Iceland are created equal.
When the tarmac ends, the skidding can begin. A cautionary (and comedic) tale of Iceland’s gravel roads.
Passing on Gravel Roads
Sometimes, you won’t be the only motor on a gravel road.
Moving as far as right to the possible, and slowing down, is the best bet if you want to avoid spilling gravel everywhere when passing.
Elfis shows that cautious overtaking on a loose-surface road always achieves the best results.
Blind Curves
Who would have guessed that Iceland’s roads aren’t all grids and straight-lines?
What that means, in reality, is that there are plenty of twists and turns in the road, not all them overly visible.
Elfis illustrates why slow and steady wins the race when dealing with blind bends.
Blind Hills
Going up? Hope you’re not going fast…
…because you never know what’s coming at you come the peak.
Elfis showing us why blind hills must be approached with caution.
Single Lane Bridges
Not all Icelandic bridges are built for two.
Highway number one had plenty of single-lane bridges. Stop and assess the situation before heading across.
Remember, it is always the driver closest to the bridge who has right away.
Seat Belts
Simple, effective, and non-negotiable.
Seat belts have saved so many lives around the world; what makes anyone think the case would be different in Iceland?
Always buckle up when inside a motor vehicle, not only for your safety, but the safety of those around you.
Weather in Iceland
Rain, shine, gale-force winds—sometimes all in the same hour. Iceland’s weather has a big reputation for being tempermental.
Elfis and the gang experience just why its important to check the weather forecast while travelling.
Animals
Some locals in Iceland have absolutely zero road sense. Particularly the ones with hooves (though not exclusively.)
Whether it’s sheep, reindeer, or swooping birds, Elfis finds out why Icelandic wildlife should always be expected.
24/7 Daylight
To some, the Midnight sun might seem like a dream.
But Elfis teaches us that endless daylight doesn’t mean endless energy—or driving sense.
Take breaks from time to time. Just because it’s sunny outside doesn’t mean you don’t need to sleep!
Keep in Mind
In this final episode, our trusty elven guide rounds up his greatest lessons.
The rest, dear traveller, is up to you.
But if you remember Elfis’ lessons, you’ll remain safe and cautious behind the wheel throughout your time here.
Learn more about safety in Iceland
For even more practical tips and up-to-date guidance, visit the official website of Samgöngustofa (The Icelandic Transport Authority).
Whether you’re planning a summer road trip or bracing for winter conditions, their resources offer essential advice to help you drive safely and responsibly in Iceland’s unique and often unpredictable landscape.
The post Driving with Elfis | The (Very Funny) Safety Series Set in Iceland appeared first on Iceland Review.
