Route One (the Ring Road) will close to eastbound traffic at Hellisheiði later today, according to a report from RÚV. Hellisheiði is the lava plateau southeast of Reykjavík that forms a key gateway for photographers travelling toward the South Coast, including locations such as Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, Reynisfjara, and Jökulsárlón.
Why this matters for photographers: Hellisheiði sits on the primary route connecting Reykjavík to Iceland’s most-visited photography destinations. An eastbound closure means photographers departing the capital or returning from the west will be unable to proceed along Route One in that direction until the closure is lifted. Early morning departures for golden hour shoots on the South Coast may be affected.
- Check current road status at road.is before departing.
- Contact the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration (Vegagerðin) for estimated reopening times.
- Consider delaying your departure or planning an alternative schedule if your shoot depends on reaching South Coast locations today.
- Monitor RÚV English and Safetravel.is for updates as conditions develop.
Source: RÚV English