Discover the Majestic Skaftafell Glacier: A Nature Lover's Paradise
Explore the stunning Skaftafell Glacier, a breathtaking nature preserve in Iceland's Vatnajökull National Park, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Skaftafell Glacier, part of the Vatnajökull National Park, offers stunning landscapes, breathtaking hikes, and a chance to experience Iceland's natural beauty up close. Whether you're hiking the trails or taking in the views, this nature preserve is a must-visit for any traveler.
A brief summary to Skaftafell Glacier
- Skaftafelljökull Trail, IS
Local tips
- Dress in layers, as weather conditions can change rapidly in the area.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and glacier views.
- Stay hydrated and pack snacks for your hikes to maintain energy.
- Check local weather forecasts and trail conditions before heading out.
- Consider joining a guided tour for a more educational experience about the glacier and its surroundings.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are already at the Skaftafell Visitor Center, start by following the signs to the Skaftafelljökull Trail, which is well-marked. The trailhead is located just a short walk from the visitor center. Once you reach the trailhead, follow the well-maintained path for approximately 2 km (1.2 miles) toward Skaftafell Glacier. The hike will take around 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on your pace. Enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way, as the trail offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
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Driving
If you are driving to Skaftafell National Park, take Route 1 (Ring Road) to the Skaftafell exit, which is clearly marked. From the exit, follow the signs to the Skaftafell Visitor Center where you can park your car. Parking is available at the visitor center, but be aware that there may be a parking fee, so have some Icelandic króna (ISK) ready. After parking, follow the walking directions to the Skaftafelljökull Trail to reach the glacier.
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Public Transportation
If you are using public transportation, take a bus from Reykjavik or nearby towns like Vik. Look for bus services that stop at Skaftafell National Park. Once you arrive at the Skaftafell bus stop, the Skaftafell Visitor Center is a short walk away. From there, follow the signs to the Skaftafelljökull Trail to reach Skaftafell Glacier. Make sure to check the bus schedule in advance, as services may be limited, especially during the off-peak season.
Discover more about Skaftafell Glacier
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Saatvik Restaurant (Kaffiterían Skaftafelli)
2.7 km
Discover Saatvik Restaurant in Skaftafell: your go-to spot for delicious meals and refreshments amidst Iceland's breathtaking landscapes.
Glacier Goodies
2.7 km
Experience the perfect blend of convenience and taste at Glacier Goodies, a fast food haven in the heart of Iceland's stunning Skaftafell region.
Icelandic Mountain Guides by Icelandia - Skaftafell Base Camp
2.7 km
Discover the breathtaking glaciers and stunning landscapes of Skaftafell with expert guidance from Icelandic Mountain Guides.
Arctic Adventures - Glacier Guides
2.8 km
Discover Iceland's stunning glaciers with Arctic Adventures - Glacier Guides, offering unforgettable tours in Skaftafell National Park.
Arctic Adventures (Skaftafell Base Camp)
2.8 km
Discover the stunning glaciers and breathtaking landscapes of Iceland at Arctic Adventures - Skaftafell Base Camp, your gateway to unforgettable glacier adventures.
Skaftafell & Svartifoss Parking
2.8 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Iceland at Skaftafell & Svartifoss Parking, your gateway to iconic hikes and stunning natural wonders.
Skaftafell Airport
2.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Iceland at Skaftafell Airport, your gateway to glaciers, national parks, and unforgettable adventures.
Atlantsflug - flightseeing.is
2.9 km
Soar through Iceland's breathtaking landscapes with Atlantsflug, the premier flightseeing operator in Reykjavik, for an unforgettable aerial adventure.
Skaftafell tjaldsvæði
2.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Skaftafell Campground in Iceland, a perfect escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Skaftafellsheidhi
3.3 km
Explore the serene shrubbery and stunning landscapes of Skaftafellsheidhi, a hidden gem in Iceland perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Svinafellsjokull
4.8 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Svinafellsjokull Glacier, a must-see destination in Iceland's stunning Vatnajökull National Park.
Morsaldalur
5.8 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and serene beauty of Morsaldalur Ravine, a hidden gem in Iceland perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
The potato storage
6.1 km
Experience the charm of Iceland at The Potato Storage, a unique guest house in Svínafel, perfect for adventurers and nature lovers.
Glacier Horses
7.4 km
Explore breathtaking Icelandic landscapes on horseback with Glacier Horses, an unforgettable adventure in the heart of nature.
Unmissable attractions to see
Skaftafellsjökull gönguleið
1.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Skaftafellsjökull, where stunning glaciers meet cascading waterfalls in Iceland's natural wonderland.
Skaftafellsstofa
2.7 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Vatnajökull National Park at Skaftafellsstofa Visitor Center, your gateway to Iceland's natural wonders.
Svartifoss Trail
2.7 km
Explore the breathtaking Svartifoss Trail in Skaftafell National Park, where stunning waterfalls and unique basalt columns await every adventurer.
Svartifoss
2.8 km
Explore Svartifoss, the stunning Black Waterfall in Iceland's Vatnajökull National Park, known for its majestic basalt columns and breathtaking scenery.
Skaftafell Terminal - Tour Center
2.9 km
Embark on unforgettable adventures at Skaftafell Terminal, your essential tour center for exploring Iceland's stunning Vatnajökull National Park.
Melrakki Adventures
2.9 km
Experience the thrill of glacier hikes and outdoor adventures with expert guides at Melrakki Adventures in Iceland's stunning landscapes.
Magnúsarfoss
3.1 km
Experience the stunning beauty of Magnúsarfoss, a breathtaking waterfall in Skaftafell National Park, perfect for hiking and nature lovers.
Hundafoss
3.2 km
Explore the breathtaking Hundafoss Waterfall along the Svartifoss Trail, a stunning natural wonder in Iceland surrounded by magnificent landscapes.
Þjófafoss
3.2 km
Discover the stunning Þjósafoss Waterfall, a hiking paradise in Iceland, offering breathtaking views and unforgettable nature experiences.
Svínafellsjökull Glacier
3.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Svinafellsjokull Glacier within Vatnajokull National Park, a paradise for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Svínafellsjökull útsýnisstaður
3.3 km
Explore the breathtaking Svinafellsjokull Glacier in Iceland, a stunning natural wonder perfect for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts.
Sel
3.6 km
Explore the captivating historical landmark of Sel, surrounded by Iceland's stunning natural beauty and rich cultural stories.
Skaftafellsjökull
5.0 km
Explore the breathtaking Skaftafellsjökull Glacier, a stunning natural wonder in Iceland's Vatnajökull National Park that promises adventure and unforgettable views.
Skeiðará Bridge Monument
5.1 km
Discover the Skeiđara Bridge Monument, an iconic historical landmark in Iceland, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty and rich heritage.
Skaftafell
5.6 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and stunning waterfalls at Skaftafell, a nature lover's paradise within Vatnajökull National Park.
Essential places to dine
Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon
20.6 km
Discover tranquility at Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon - your gateway to Iceland's stunning glaciers and breathtaking landscapes.
Fjallsárlón Frost Restaurant
26.9 km
Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine with breathtaking glacier views at Fjallsárlón Frost Restaurant.
Nailed It Fish and Chips
36.0 km
Savor the best fish and chips in Iceland at Nailed It Fish and Chips near Jökulsárlón - where fresh seafood meets stunning landscapes.
Þórbergssetur - Cultural Center & Restaurant
45.2 km
Explore Þórbergssetur: A unique blend of Icelandic culture and cuisine nestled in breathtaking Suðursveit.
Hali Country Hotel & Restaurant
45.2 km
Discover comfort and authentic cuisine at Hali Country Hotel & Restaurant, your perfect base for exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Höfn, Iceland.
Gígur
58.3 km
Discover authentic Icelandic flavors at Gígur, where local ingredients meet breathtaking views in Kirkjubæjarklaustur.
Restaurant Bistro Magma Hotel
60.1 km
Experience exquisite dining at Bistro Magma Hotel, where local flavors meet stunning Icelandic landscapes.
Systrakaffi
61.2 km
Experience the rich flavors of Iceland at Systrakaffi in Kirkjubæjarklaustur – where local ingredients meet culinary artistry.
Klaustur Restaurant & Bar
61.5 km
Experience the best of traditional Icelandic cuisine at Klaustur Restaurant & Bar in Kirkjubæjarklaustur.
Kjarr Restaurant & Bar
61.9 km
Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Kjarr Restaurant & Bar in Kirkjubæjarklaustur – where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Cafe Munkar
62.0 km
Experience authentic Icelandic flavors at Cafe Munkar in Kirkjubæjarklaustur – where culinary tradition meets modern comfort.
Hunkubakkar Farm Restaurant
66.1 km
Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine surrounded by breathtaking landscapes at Hunkubakkar Farm Restaurant.
Jon Riki
74.9 km
Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Jon Riki in Höfn - where fresh local ingredients meet cozy ambiance.
Hafnarbuðin
86.6 km
Discover delicious Icelandic cuisine at Hafnarbuðin, where family-friendly dining meets local flavor in beautiful Höfn.
Kaffi Hornid
86.6 km
Discover authentic Icelandic flavors at Kaffi Hornid in Höfn – where every dish tells a story amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Söluskálinn í Freysnesi
4.1 km
Experience the best of Icelandic cuisine at Söluskálinn í Freysnesi, a unique gas station, restaurant, and store offering local delights.
Orkan
4.2 km
Discover Orkan in Hof, Iceland—a vital gas station and convenience store, perfect for fueling up and finding local treasures on your journey.
Veitingasala Restaurant, Shop, And Gas
4.2 km
Discover the flavors of Iceland at Veitingasala Restaurant in Svínafell, where local ingredients meet a cozy atmosphere.
Glacier and Volcano Expeditions
4.2 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Iceland with Glacier and Volcano Expeditions, where adventure meets natural beauty in unforgettable tours.
Hotel Skaftafell
4.2 km
Explore the beauty of Iceland while enjoying comfort and convenience at Hotel Skaftafell, your perfect base for adventure.
Litla-Herad EFH
16.1 km
Discover the charm of Litla-Herad EFH, a cozy coffee shop in Fagurhólsmýri offering delicious brews and stunning Icelandic views.
Vesturhus Hostel
16.7 km
Discover the charm of Vesturhus Hostel, where comfort meets affordability in the stunning landscapes of Iceland, perfect for adventurous travelers.
Hof
16.8 km
Explore Hof for a unique selection of Icelandic crafts and souvenirs, capturing the essence of Icelandic culture in every product.
Cafe Vatnajökull
20.9 km
Discover Café Vatnajökull: an artful café near Vatnajökull National Park, serving fresh pastries and coffee in a stunning natural setting.
Random Klausturbúð
60.4 km
Explore the charm of Random Klausturbúð, a gift shop in Kirkjubæjarklaustur, offering unique Icelandic souvenirs and local handicrafts.
Gvendarkjör
61.2 km
Discover Gvendarkjör in Kirkjubæjarklaustur for local goods, fresh produce, and essential supplies during your Icelandic adventure.
Kjarval Klaustur
61.2 km
Discover local flavors and essentials at Kjarval Klaustur, your go-to supermarket in Kirkjubæjarklaustur, Iceland.
Pharmacy
61.5 km
Visit the Kirkjubæjarklaustur Pharmacy for essential health supplies and expert advice while enjoying Iceland's stunning scenery.
Kirkjubæjarklaustur, Island
62.2 km
Explore the enchanting village of Kirkjubæjarklaustur, where stunning landscapes meet rich history in the heart of Iceland.
Lambhus Glacier View Cabins by Vatnajökull National Park
75.8 km
Discover the serene beauty of Lambhus Glacier View Cabins, your perfect retreat near Vatnajökull National Park, Iceland’s breathtaking natural wonder.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Fancy Sheep
36.0 km
Experience the unique flavors of Iceland at Fancy Sheep, a fast food restaurant nestled in the magnificent landscapes of Jökulsárlón.
Fosshótel Núpar
40.2 km
Experience the beauty of Iceland at Fosshótel Núpar, your perfect retreat surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and rich local culture.
Hótel Jökulsarlon - Glacier Lagoon Hotel
42.6 km
Discover the beauty of Iceland at Hótel Jökulsarlon, where luxury meets nature by the stunning Glacier Lagoon.
Guesthouse Gerði
45.4 km
Discover a cozy haven at Guesthouse Gerði, where comfort meets the breathtaking landscapes of Höfn, Iceland.
Hafið
86.8 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Hafið in Höfn, where local drinks and a friendly vibe create unforgettable nights.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Hoffell Hot Tubs
86.3 km
Experience tranquility and nature's beauty at Hoffell Hot Tubs, where relaxation meets Icelandic charm in stunning thermal baths.
Rúntkastið
86.8 km
Experience the joy of Icelandic comedy at Rúntkastið, Höfn's premier comedy club, where laughter and local culture come alive.
