F734 and F735: East Iceland Highland Connectors

Deep in Iceland's eastern highlands, two parallel mountain roads carve through some of the country's most remote and spectacular wilderness. The F734 and F735 highland tracks serve as vital connectors between the isolated Snæfell region and the inhabited valleys of East Iceland, offering adventurous travellers access to pristine landscapes that few visitors ever experience.

The Routes at a Glance

The F734 and F735 form a roughly parallel system spanning approximately 45 kilometres each, connecting the highland plateau around Snæfell glacier with the Fljótsdalur valley system. These tracks rank among Iceland's more challenging F-roads, demanding proper 4WD vehicles and careful planning.

F734 branches northeast from Route 910 near Brúarjökull glacier, threading through the Krepputunga highlands before descending toward Egilsstaðir via the Fljótsdalshérað district. The F735 follows a similar trajectory slightly further west, connecting the same highland region but approaching the lowlands through different valleys.

Both routes typically open between late June and early October, though conditions vary dramatically based on seasonal weather and volcanic activity from nearby systems including Bárðarbunga and Grímsvötn.

Highland Wilderness and Geology

Snæfell Connection

The southern sections of both F734 and F735 provide access to Snæfell (1,833 metres), East Iceland's highest peak and the remnant of a substantial Pleistocene stratovolcano. This glaciated mountain dominates the eastern highland skyline, its ice cap feeding several outlet glaciers that carve deep valleys throughout the region.

The geological foundation here consists primarily of Tertiary basalt formations, approximately 3-15 million years old, layered with more recent volcanic deposits from the active Vatnajökull system. Travellers encounter dramatic evidence of glacial sculpting, with U-shaped valleys, moraines, and countless kettle lakes dotting the landscape.

Krepputunga Highlands

The central portion of both routes crosses the expansive Krepputunga plateau, a high-altitude desert characterised by black sand plains, scattered oases, and remarkable geological formations. This region experiences extreme weather conditions, with fierce winds and sudden temperature drops common even during summer months.

Numerous rivers and streams crisscross this area, fed by glacial meltwater and highland precipitation. Most remain fordable during normal conditions, though spring melt and heavy rainfall can render crossings dangerous or impossible.

Practical Driving Considerations

Vehicle Requirements

Both F734 and F735 demand serious 4WD capability. High clearance remains essential due to rocky sections and numerous river crossings. Rental companies typically require comprehensive insurance coverage for F-road driving, adding 3,000-5,000 ISK (€20-34, $22-37) per day to standard rates.

Local outfitters in Egilsstaðir rent modified highland vehicles specifically equipped for these routes, including companies like East Iceland Adventures, with prices starting around 15,000 ISK (€103, $115) per day for basic 4WD models.

Navigation and Safety

GPS reliability diminishes significantly in these highland areas. Carry detailed topographic maps and compass as backup navigation tools. The Icelandic Met Office (Veðurstofa Íslands) provides essential road condition updates through their website and phone service (1777).

River crossings present the primary hazard on both routes. Never attempt crossings during flood conditions or when water depth exceeds your vehicle's wading capability. Several emergency shelters exist along both routes, maintained by the Icelandic Association for Search and Rescue (ICE-SAR).

Fuel and Supplies

No fuel stations exist along either route. Egilsstaðir provides the final opportunity for refuelling before heading into the highlands, with N1 and Olís stations offering standard services. Calculate fuel consumption carefully—highland driving typically reduces efficiency by 20-30% compared to ring road conditions.

The nearest accommodation and restaurant facilities lie in Egilsstaðir, approximately 50 kilometres from the northern terminuses of both routes. Stock up on food, water, and emergency supplies before departure.

Natural Highlights and Wildlife

Highland Flora and Fauna

Despite harsh conditions, these highland routes support remarkable biodiversity. Arctic foxes remain active throughout the region, while reindeer herds migrate through during summer months. Pink-footed geese nest around highland lakes, and gyrfalcons patrol the skies for prey.

Highland vegetation displays impressive adaptation strategies. Look for cushions of moss campion, purple saxifrage, and Arctic willow clinging to rocky surfaces. During brief summer seasons, wildflower displays can be spectacular, particularly around geothermal areas.

Geothermal Features

Both routes pass near significant geothermal zones, remnants of the region's volcanic heritage. Hot springs appear throughout the highlands, though most remain undeveloped and unmarked. The larger geothermal areas show clear evidence of past hydrothermal activity through altered rock colours and mineral deposits.

Best Time to Visit

Peak accessibility occurs between July and September, when daylight extends nearly 20 hours and weather conditions moderate somewhat. Early season travel (June-July) offers spectacular wildflower displays and maximum water flow in highland rivers and waterfalls.

Late season travel (September-October) provides excellent visibility and stable weather, though daylight hours decrease rapidly and first snows may close routes unexpectedly.

Planning Your Highland Adventure

Allow full days for either route, particularly when combined with exploration and photography stops. Many travellers camp in designated areas along both routes, though facilities remain minimal. Wild camping follows standard Icelandic regulations—leave no trace and respect private property boundaries.

Connect these highland routes with other F-road systems for extended highland circuits. The F735 particularly integrates well with F910 and F923 for comprehensive Vatnajökull region exploration.

These remarkable highland connectors offer genuine wilderness experiences increasingly rare in modern Iceland. With proper preparation and respect for the challenging environment, F734 and F735 provide unforgettable access to East Iceland's most pristine landscapes.

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