Solo Adventure in Vatnajokull National Park

A Day Amongst Giants

Today was a day of epic proportions, quite literally! Vatnajökull National Park has truly lived up to its reputation as a land of ice and fire, and I'm still buzzing from the incredible sights and experiences. From chasing Iceland's tallest waterfall to crunching across a glacier, every moment felt like a scene from a dream. I couldn't wait to share this experience with Hans and Sofia, painting a vivid picture of what they were missing!

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Cafe Vatnajökull. The cozy atmosphere and the promise of strong coffee were exactly what I needed to kickstart my adventures. I opted for a breakfast sandwich with salmon. It was super delicious and the coffee was excellent. Fuelled up and ready to go, my first destination was Morsárfoss, Iceland's tallest waterfall.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Morsárfoss Waterfall, a hidden gem in Iceland surrounded by stunning glaciers and majestic mountains.
Reaching Morsárfoss isn't exactly a walk in the park. In fact, a direct hike isn't advised unless you're with an experienced guide and have glacier hiking experience. Instead, I opted for a distant view from the peaks of Kristínartindar. The 11.1-mile round trip was challenging, but the panoramic views were more than worth it. Even from afar, Morsárfoss was majestic, a ribbon of water cascading down from the melting ice of the Morsárjökull glacier. I made sure to bring my binoculars to get a better view of the fall. The sheer height of the waterfall, combined with the surrounding icy landscape, was a humbling reminder of nature's power.

The earth has music for those who listen.

After the invigorating hike, it was time for lunch. I stopped at Kaffihús Grund, a charming spot that offered a warm and inviting atmosphere. I enjoyed a hearty meal, refueling for the afternoon's glacier adventure. The staff were friendly and the food was delicious, making it a perfect midday break. It was a nice change of pace to sit and enjoy the peaceful surroundings before embarking on the next adventure.


Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Kaffihús Grund in Flúðir - where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
The afternoon was dedicated to exploring Vatnajökull Glacier itself. I joined a guided Glacier Adventure tour, which promised an extended hike on one of the park's mesmerizing outlet glaciers. After getting equipped with crampons and an ice ax at the Skaftafell base, we set off onto the icy expanse.


Embark on an unforgettable journey with Glacier Adventure, exploring Iceland's majestic glaciers and breathtaking landscapes.
Walking on the glacier was an incredible experience. The crunch of the crampons, the vastness of the ice, and the knowledge that I was standing on Europe's largest glacier was surreal. Our guide was fantastic, sharing insights about the glacier's formation, the surrounding landscape, and the importance of preserving this natural wonder. We navigated through fields of crevasses and admired the natural ice sculptures, each one unique and breathtaking. The panoramic views from the glacier were simply stunning, offering a new perspective on the park's beauty.

As the day drew to a close, I treated myself to dinner at Hali Country Hotel & Restaurant. The restaurant is known for its locally sourced ingredients, and I couldn't resist trying the Arctic char. It was cooked to perfection, and the flavors were a delicious reflection of the region. The cozy atmosphere of the hotel was the perfect setting to reflect on the day's adventures. I savored every bite, knowing that this was a meal to remember.


Discover authentic Icelandic hospitality at Hali Country Hotel & Restaurant - your gateway to stunning landscapes and local cuisine.
Before heading back to my campsite, I made a quick stop at Skogafoss Bistro Bar for a nightcap. It was the perfect way to end the day, relaxing with a drink and soaking in the last moments of the Icelandic landscape. The bistro had a great vibe, and it was a nice opportunity to unwind and chat with fellow travelers.


Experience the flavors of Iceland at Skogafoss Bistro Bar, where culinary delights meet breathtaking views near the iconic Skogafoss waterfall.
Today was a reminder of why I love solo travel. The freedom to explore at my own pace, to immerse myself in the landscape, and to challenge myself physically and mentally is incredibly rewarding. Vatnajökull National Park has left an indelible mark on my soul, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings as I prepare to explore the Fjallabak Nature Reserve [Itinerary of Tomorrow]. I'm also looking forward to Troll Expeditions Skaftafell. I have a feeling that tomorrow will bring even more unforgettable experiences.

It’s time to recharge, both myself and my camera, and prepare for another day of exploration. Tomorrow, I'm planning to visit the Fjallabak Nature Reserve and Tröll Expeditions Skaftafell [Itinerary of Tomorrow]. I’m hoping to find even more hidden gems and capture the raw beauty of Iceland. Good night from Vatnajökull!