French tourists driving two jeeps were fined ISK 200 000 ($1 900/€1 600) each for off-road driving near Kerlingarfjöll mountain range in the Highlands of Iceland. RÚV reported first.
The travellers called for help when they got their cars stuck in mud near the mountain Loðmundur. The area has been closed to vehicles due to wet conditions.
The individuals’ driving damaged vegetation and soil in the area. The two individuals were questioned at the police station in Selfoss, South Iceland, where they paid the fine.
Off-road driving is illegal in Iceland due to the fragility of the subarctic environment. All travellers are encouraged to inform themselves of weather and road conditions as well as local laws before setting out.
