The highland road section Búland–Eldgjá, which provides access to Landmannalaugar and the Fjallabak Nature Reserve, changed status to “Vegur ekki í þjónustu” (road not in service) on 6 October 2026 at 17:31. The change was recorded by Vegagerðin, the Icelandic Road Administration. No further comment has been issued by the road authority at this time.
Why this matters for photographers
Landmannalaugar is one of Iceland’s most sought-after highland destinations, particularly popular in September and October for its rhyolite mountains and autumn colours. An “out of service” status means the route is no longer maintained and should not be attempted, effectively marking the close of the 2026 highland season for this area. Photographers who had planned late-season visits to Fjallabak will need to adjust their itineraries accordingly.
What photographers should do
- Check the current road status for all highland F-roads on Vegagerðin’s travel information pages before any planned departure — conditions can change without advance notice.
- Do not attempt the Búland–Eldgjá route or other unmaintained highland tracks in an ordinary vehicle or without confirming the road has reopened in spring 2027.
- Redirect late-autumn photography plans to lowland locations that remain accessible year-round, such as the South Coast or the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.
For full guidance, see our Iceland F-Roads for Photographers: Access, Safety & Seasons.
Source: Vegagerðin — https://www.road.is/travel-info/road-conditions-and-weather/