Can You Fly Drones in Iceland? 2025 Iceland Drone Flying Guide

With a landscape like Icelands, covered with stunning natural attractions, it’s no surprise that many drone enthusiasts dream of capturing the wonders of this Nordic country from the sky. But can you fly drones in Iceland? The answer is yes, but with certain restrictions and guidelines that you must follow. Flying drones freely is appealing, but safety, environmental, and privacy issues must be considered. 

In this guide, we will explore the ins and outs of flying drones in Iceland, including the laws and regulations, the best locations for aerial photography, safety considerations, and more. This guide will help both experienced and new drone pilots enjoy flying their drones in Iceland’s wilderness.

Quick Answer: Can You Fly Drones in Iceland?

Yes, you can fly drones in Iceland but only if you follow Iceland’s drone rules. If your drone weighs 250 g or more or has a camera or other data-collecting sensor, you must register as an operator at flydrone.is (registration is valid for 5 years). Lightweight drones under 250 g without cameras are exempt, but that’s rare as most drones today record data, which means registration still applies.

You must stay below 120 m, keep visual line of sight, fly only in daylight, and always respect “No Drone” signs, especially around national parks and popular tourist attractions.

Many of Iceland’s most photogenic and legal flight areas are remote, such as the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, North Iceland, and the Westfjords. Renting a car gives you the flexibility to access these safe, less-crowded locations.

Table of Contents

• Icelandic Drone Laws in Detail
• Restrictions and Limitations for Drone Flying in Iceland
• Best Locations for Drone Flying in Iceland
• Safety and Challenges of Drone Flying in Iceland
• Frequently Asked Questions

Understanding the Icelandic Drone Laws

Before you take off with your drone in Iceland, it’s crucial to have a clear understanding of the local regulations. Icelandic drone laws are designed to ensure the safety of the country’s unique environment and its people, and they are regulated by the Icelandic Transport Authority (ITA).

Iceland now follows the European Union’s common drone regulations under Regulation 1360/2024, which aligns with EU 2019/947 and 2019/945. This means every drone operator, including visitors from outside the EU, must register at flydrone.is. Registration is valid for five years.

Recreational pilots must also complete an online competency test for the A1/A3 categories (free of charge). Operations are grouped by risk:

• Open Category: Low-risk flights under 120 m with drones under 25 kg.
• Specific Category: Medium-risk flights requiring prior authorization.
• Certified Category: High-risk flights (e.g., heavy or passenger-carrying drones).

Drones are further divided into C0 to C6 classes, which define how and where you can fly. For most travelers, lightweight models (C0 or C1) offer the simplest compliance. Older “legacy” drones without a C-mark can still be flown in limited areas under A1 (<250 g) or A3 (<25 kg).

Here is a quick overview of some of the key regulations you need to know about:

• Maximum Altitude: The maximum allowable altitude for drone flights in Iceland is 120 meters (394 feet) above ground level.
• No-fly Zones: There are several restricted areas in Iceland where drone flying is prohibited. These areas include national parks, nature reserves, and specific tourist attractions for safety reasons.
• Maintain Visual Line of Sight: While operating your drone, you MUST maintain visual contact with it at all times. Flying beyond your line of sight (ie. behind a mountain) is not permitted.
• Fly During Daylight: Drones should only be flown during daylight hours, as flying at night is prohibited unless you have special permission.
• Respect Privacy: Be mindful of people’s privacy and property rights. 
• Safety and Distance: Maintain a minimum distance of 150 meters (492 feet) from people, vehicles, and buildings not under your control. 
• Emergency Services: If you encounter emergency service operations, give them the right of way and avoid interfering with their activities.
• Label Your Drone: You must label your drone with your name, address and phone number

Restrictions and Limitations for Drone Flying

Just like in any country, there are areas where drone flying is restricted or prohibited. You cannot use drones near military bases, government facilities, airports or over crowds of people. When it comes to residential areas or public buildings, it’s prohibited to fly a drone within 150 meters (492 feet) of schools, hospitals, or residential buildings in public areas. And in rural areas, you must obtain permission from the owner to fly within 50 meters (164 feet).

In nature reserves or national parks, you will require permission from the Icelandic Nature Agency if you want to legally fly your drone. And specifically, in The Blue Lagoon, it’s prohibited to fly a drone without permission from the Administration of the Blue Lagoon. Similarly, using a drone at many of Iceland’s popular attractions is heavily restricted or prohibited, including Iceland waterfalls, Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, and the Geysir geothermal area. 

Tip: Don’t rely on third-party apps (e.g., DJI GEO) as legal proof of where you can fly. Only the Environment Agency, the national parks, and the official drone map are authoritative. Check the official Iceland Drone Map and the Flights in Protected Areas list before each flight.

Best Locations for Drone Flying in Iceland

So, where can you fly drones safely and legally? The good news is that there are many beautiful locations in Iceland where visitors are permitted to fly their drones. When visiting popular tourist attractions, you will likely see a “NO DRONES” sign in the areas where it’s prohibited, but we still recommend following the advice above regarding Icelandic drone laws, even when there is no sign present. 

Here are some of the best locations for drone flying in Iceland:

The Golden Circle Area

The Golden Circle self-drive route in Iceland offers many great opportunities for drone flying. There are many of Iceland’s top attractions along this short loop, and unfortunately, you will need to apply for permission to film at The Geysir Geothermal Area, except during the site’s small recreational time windows (Apr 1–Oct 31: 8–10 AM; Nov 1–Mar 31: 11–12; not for commercial use).

The good news is that you can fly drones at Thingvellir National Park with time-of-day limits in the most visited zone (before 09:00 or after 18:00 in the central area; more lenient elsewhere, but always respect other visitors). If you want to fly a drone at Gullfoss, flying is permit-only except for short recreational windows (Apr 1–Oct 31: 8–10 AM; Nov 1–Mar 31: 11–12; commercial use requires a permit at all times).

It’s worth obtaining the permits if you’re looking to capture some truly magnificent footage of the iconic natural attractions, but there are still many spots where you can legally fly your drone along the route and shoot incredible aerial photos and videos of the volcanic landscapes in the area.

The South Coast

The South Coast of Iceland is another very popular route in Iceland that is easily accessible from Reykjavik and provides lots of opportunities to fly your drone and take in some incredible coastal views.

Reynisfjara and Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, restrictions are strict: Jökulsárlón is closed to drones Apr 15–Jul 15 for bird protection and otherwise allows specific time windows only; always check current park guidance.

Just make sure you aren’t flying your drone within the borders of Vatnajökull national park unless you’ve applied for the proper permit. There are tons of waterfalls that you can film along the South Coast route, but you’ll need a permit from Iceland’s Environment Agency.

The North of Iceland

In the picturesque North of Iceland, drone enthusiasts will find many breathtaking landscapes to capture. If you’re not near any big attractions or within national park boundaries, you have a lot of flexibility in where you can fly.

Lake Mývatn,is a great place to capture geothermal wonders and lava formations, but there is a lot of bird life here, so you’ll need a special permit to fly your drone and need to take extra care to stay away from birds.

Just a short drive away from Lake Mývatn is Dettifoss Waterfall, another drone capture opportunity. The sheer force and scale of Dettifoss are even easier to appreciate from above. Make sure that you adhere to all Icelandic drone laws when flying in this area. 

Snæfellsjökull National Park

The Snæfellsnes Peninsula region offers a condensed version of Iceland’s diverse landscapes, from dramatic cliffs to serene coastlines and from volcanic peaks to lush meadows, perfect for capturing tons of great drone shots within a small location. Make sure to visit Gerðuberg basalt columns and the rhyolite mountains. If you get permits from the Iceland Environment Agency you can also film at Snæfellsjökull glacier and volcano, which famously inspired Jules Verne’s “Journey to the Center of the Earth.” Keep in mind that within Snæfellsjökull National Park, drone flying is prohibited Apr 15–Sep 15 in the coastal strip unless permitted and permits are not granted near bird cliffs during nesting.

Hidden Gems for Unique Shots

If you’re visiting Iceland in the summer months there are some other hidden areas that you can access for some even more exclusive shots. You will have to take Iceland F-roads to access some of these locations, or at the very least encounter some unpaved roads meaning that you’ll require 4X4 rental vehicle.  

The first area to note is Iceland’s Westfjords, where you can find the red sands of Raudasandur, with its dramatic black cliffs and blue waters. Another great spot to film is Arnarfjörður fjord. This area is very popular for drone photography as there are less restrictions, but keep in mind that it’s prohibited to fly your drone near the Látrabjarg cliffs as it’s an important nesting site for Iceland puffins. 

Another great spot to visit for drone photography is Iceland’s Highlands. Landmannalaugar and Thorsmork are two notable hidden gems, but they are only accessible in the summer months when the unmaintained roads more traversable. Landmannalaugar features multicolored rhyolite mountains and natural hot springs.

Capturing this surreal landscape from above with a drone allows you to showcase the vibrant hues of the terrain and the steam rising from the earth’s depths. Thorsmork, a lush valley surrounded by glaciers and rugged cliffs, offers a unique opportunity for dramatic aerial shots. 

Safety and Challenges of Drone Flying in Iceland

As you prepare for your drone adventure in Iceland, it’s crucial to prioritize safety. The challenging weather conditions and unique geographical features of Iceland make drone flying more demanding than in many other locations. Here are some essential safety rules and considerations for drone pilots in Iceland:

Essential Safety Rules for Drone Pilots

• Ensure your drone is in excellent working condition before every flight.
• Stay informed about the local weather conditions, which can change rapidly.
• Plan your flights meticulously, considering your flight path and potential obstacles.
• Carry essential spare parts and tools in case you need to make on-site repairs.
• Always have a reliable GPS and return-to-home function on your drone.
• Respect wildlife and the environment, maintaining a safe distance from animals and fragile ecosystems.
• Use a pre-flight checklist to ensure you’ve covered all safety aspects.

Dealing with Iceland’s Weather Conditions

Iceland is famous for its unpredictable weather, which can include strong winds, rain, snow, and fog. These conditions pose unique challenges for drone pilots. To manage the impact of Iceland’s weather on your drone flights, make sure to always check the weather forecast before every flight so you can make an informed decision about whether or not to fly. The most reliable source for Iceland weather information is vedur.is.

Drones can struggle in the Icelandic winds, even on mild days, so make sure to choose a drone with good wind resistance capabilities and always be prepared to land if the wind becomes too strong. Another thing to keep in mind is that cold weather can often drain your drone’s battery faster, so battery management is an important consideration. Be prepared with some space batteries and keep them warm until you need them.

A few more things to note about the impact of Iceland’s weather on drone flying is that low visibility due to fog or heavy rain can be problematic. Never fly in these conditions, as you may lose sight of your drone. Also, be cautious when flying in icy conditions, as landing can be challenging. Be ready for a controlled landing or landing on soft snow.

The Risk of Losing Drones to Wind and Weather

The harsh Icelandic weather poses a significant risk to drones. Strong winds can easily carry a lightweight drone off course or, worse, into inaccessible terrain. To mitigate this risk:

• Always maintain a line of sight and keep a safe distance from wind-sensitive areas like cliffs.
• Fly at a lower altitude if strong winds are present.
• Be cautious about flying too close to water bodies, as sudden gusts of wind can lead to an unexpected splashdown.
• In case your drone gets caught in unfavorable conditions, use the return-to-home function immediately to bring it back safely.
• Have a well-defined plan for what to do if your drone gets lost or stranded in challenging conditions.

• • Is it worth bringing a drone to Iceland?
    Yes. Iceland’s scenery is incredible from above, and a drone lets you capture glaciers, volcanoes, and waterfalls from new angles. Just be sure to check no-fly zones and weather conditions; many famous tourist sites have restrictions, so your best footage often comes from quieter, remote areas.

• • How much does it cost to get a drone permit in Iceland?
    Registration on flydrone.is costs ISK 5,500 and is valid for five years. This registration covers most recreational and travel use. Separate filming permits for national parks or nature reserves may cost extra and must be arranged with the Environment Agency of Iceland.

• • What is the best drone to use in Iceland?
    Lightweight, wind-resistant models under 250 g, such as the DJI Mini 4 Pro or Mini 3 Pro, are ideal options. They meet Iceland’s easiest “open-category” rules, handle the country’s gusty weather better than most, and don’t require separate approval for typical recreational flights.

• • Can you fly a drone at Gullfoss?
    Yes, but only during limited daily windows for recreational flights (April 1–October 31 from 8–10 a.m. and November 1–March 31 from 11 a.m.–noon). Commercial filming or flying outside those times requires a permit from the Environment Agency of Iceland.

• • Can you fly a drone at Reynisfjara (Black Sand Beach)?
    No. Drone flying is prohibited at Reynisfjara due to safety hazards from sneaker waves and wildlife protection. Always respect the posted “No Drones” signs at the site.

• • Are you allowed drones in Iceland?
    Yes, drones are allowed, but you must follow Iceland’s national and EU-aligned drone laws. The key limits are altitude (120 m max), distance (keep line of sight and 150 m from people/buildings), and site-specific restrictions in protected areas.

• • Do I need a licence to fly a drone in Iceland?
    For recreational flying in the “open” category, you only need to complete the free A1/A3 online competency test after registering. A separate licence or in-person exam is required only for the higher-risk A2 or specific categories.

• • How do you register your drone in Iceland?
    Go to flydrone.is, create an account, and register as an operator. You’ll pay the ISK 5,500 fee and receive an operator ID to label on your drone; the registration remains valid across all EASA-member countries for five years.

Can You Fly Drones in Iceland?

From the stunning landscapes of the Golden Circle to the dramatic cliffs of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Iceland offers endless opportunities for breathtaking aerial photography and videography. As you plan your drone adventure, always prioritize safety, respect the environment, and follow local regulations. Iceland’s weather can change quickly, and drone rules are updated from time to time, so it’s important to check the latest guidance from the Icelandic Transport Authority (Samgöngustofa) or flydrone.is
before every flight.

To make the most of your trip, be sure you have both the right gear and the freedom to explore. Renting a car with Hertz Iceland gives you the flexibility to reach remote and legal drone-flying locations across the country, from glacier lagoons to hidden highland valleys.

With careful planning, respect for the rules, and the open road ahead, you can capture Iceland’s beauty safely and responsibly from above.

Rent a Car in Iceland Today!