Skaftafell Glacier: A Majestic Nature Preserve
Discover the stunning beauty of Skaftafell Glacier, a nature preserve in Iceland where ice meets volcanic landscapes, offering breathtaking views and outdoor adventures.
Skaftafell Glacier, nestled within Iceland's stunning natural landscape, invites tourists to explore its breathtaking vistas, unique geological features, and rich biodiversity. As part of Vatnajökull National Park, this glacier area offers a plethora of outdoor activities, including hiking trails that lead to stunning viewpoints, glacial rivers, and lush valleys. Visitors can immerse themselves in a world where ice meets fire, with the glacier's striking blue ice contrasting against the rugged volcanic terrain. For those eager to experience Iceland's natural beauty, Skaftafell Glacier is an unforgettable destination.
A brief summary to Skaftafell Glacier
- Skaftafelljökull Trail, IS
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Dress in layers to prepare for rapidly changing weather conditions.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes, especially during sunrise or sunset.
- Consider joining a guided tour for a safe exploration of the glacier's icy terrain.
- Stay on marked trails to protect the delicate ecosystem and ensure your safety.
- Plan your visit during weekdays to avoid weekend crowds.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving in Skaftafell, start from the Skaftafell Visitor Center. Head southwest on the main road, Route 1 (also known as the Ring Road) and follow the signs for Skaftafell National Park. Drive for about 1 km until you reach the parking area for Skaftafell Glacier. From the parking lot, follow the Skaftafelljökull Trail to the glacier. This hike will take approximately 30 minutes.
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Public Transportation
If you are using public transportation, take the bus from Reykjavik or nearby towns that have service to Skaftafell. Get off at the Skaftafell stop. From there, walk towards the Skaftafell Visitor Center and continue heading southwest toward Route 1. Follow the signs for Skaftafell National Park and walk about 1 km to reach the parking area for Skaftafell Glacier. Hike along the Skaftafelljökull Trail for about 30 minutes to reach the glacier.
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Hiking
Once you have parked your car or arrived via public transport, the hike to Skaftafell Glacier starts at the Skaftafelljökull Trail. This well-marked trail will lead you directly to the glacier. The hike is relatively easy and takes about 30 minutes. Ensure you wear appropriate footwear and clothing for changing weather conditions.
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
Discover Glacier Goodies, a fast food treasure in Skaftafell, serving delicious meals amidst Iceland's stunning landscapes.
Icelandic Mountain Guides by Icelandia - Skaftafell Base Camp
2.7 km
Discover the beauty of Vatnajökull National Park with Icelandic Mountain Guides at Skaftafell Base Camp, your adventure starts here!
Arctic Adventures - Glacier Guides
2.8 km
Explore the breathtaking glaciers of Iceland with Arctic Adventures - Glacier Guides, where unforgettable journeys through ice and adventure await.
Arctic Adventures (Skaftafell Base Camp)
2.8 km
Discover the thrill of adventure at Arctic Adventures in Skaftafell, where stunning landscapes meet unforgettable experiences in Iceland’s wild beauty.
Skaftafell & Svartifoss Parking
2.8 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Svartifoss and the natural wonders of Vatnajökull National Park from the convenience of Skaftafell Parking.
Skaftafell Airport
2.9 km
Discover Iceland's breathtaking landscapes from Skaftafell Airport, the perfect starting point for your aerial adventures and nature explorations.
Atlantsflug - flightseeing.is
2.9 km
Experience Iceland's breathtaking beauty from the sky with unforgettable flightseeing tours by Atlantsflug.
Skaftafell tjaldsvæði
2.9 km
Discover the stunning landscapes of Skaftafell National Park at Skaftafell Campground, your gateway to Icelandic adventure and natural beauty.
Skaftafellsheidhi
3.3 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Skaftafellsheidhi, Iceland's serene oasis of lush shrubbery and breathtaking landscapes for nature lovers.
Svinafellsjokull
4.8 km
Explore the breathtaking Svinafellsjokull Glacier, a must-visit natural wonder in Iceland's Vatnajökull National Park, rich with stunning icy landscapes.
Morsaldalur
5.8 km
Explore the breathtaking Morsaldalur Ravine, a natural wonder in Iceland known for its stunning landscapes and unique geological formations.
The potato storage
6.1 km
Experience the charm of The Potato Storage in Svinafell, a cozy guest house near Skaftafell National Park, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Glacier Horses
7.4 km
Discover Iceland's breathtaking landscapes on horseback with Glacier Horses, an unforgettable adventure for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.
Unmissable attractions to see
Skaftafellsjökull gönguleið
1.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Skaftafellsjökull, a premier hiking destination in Iceland's stunning landscapes.
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
Experience the breathtaking Svartifoss Trail in Skaftafell National Park, where stunning waterfalls and unique basalt columns await every hiker.
Svartifoss
2.8 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Svartifoss, Iceland's iconic Black Waterfall, surrounded by striking basalt columns in Vatnajökull National Park.
Melrakki Adventures
2.9 km
Experience the majesty of Iceland's glaciers with Melrakki Adventures, your gateway to unforgettable outdoor explorations and breathtaking natural beauty.
Skaftafell Terminal - Tour Center
2.9 km
Discover Iceland's stunning landscapes at Skaftafell Terminal, your premier tour center for incredible outdoor adventures in Vatnajökull National Park.
Magnúsarfoss
3.1 km
Discover the stunning Magnúsarfoss waterfall in Skaftafell National Park, where nature's beauty meets serene hiking trails and breathtaking landscapes.
Hundafoss
3.2 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Hundafoss Waterfall, a must-visit natural wonder in Iceland's stunning landscapes.
Þjófafoss
3.2 km
Explore the enchanting Þjófafoss Waterfall, a hidden gem in Iceland's wilderness, perfect for hiking and breathtaking views.
Svínafellsjökull Glacier
3.3 km
Explore the breathtaking Svínafellsjökull Glacier, a stunning outlet of Vatnajökull, offering unforgettable views and unforgettable experiences in Iceland's wilderness.
Svínafellsjökull útsýnisstaður
3.3 km
Explore the enchanting Svinafellsjokull Glacier in Iceland, a breathtaking destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
Sel
3.6 km
Explore Sel, a captivating historical landmark in Iceland, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage waiting to be discovered.
Skaftafellsjökull
5.0 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Skaftafellsjökull, a stunning glacier in Vatnajökull National Park, Iceland, ideal for adventure and nature lovers alike.
Skeiðará Bridge Monument
5.1 km
Discover the Skeiđará Bridge Monument, a historical landmark offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into Iceland's rich engineering heritage.
Skaftafell
5.6 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and unique geological formations of Skaftafell National Park, a true gem in Iceland's natural beauty.
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.
Klaustur Restaurant
61.5 km
Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Klaustur Restaurant in Kirkjubæjarklaustur - where local ingredients meet tradition.
Kjarr Restaurant & Bar
61.9 km
Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Kjarr Restaurant & Bar in Kirkjubæjarklaustur – where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Kjarr Restaurant
61.9 km
Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Kjarr Restaurant in Kirkjubæjarklaustur—where local flavors meet stunning landscapes.
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.
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.
Vatnajokull
44.4 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Vatnajökull, Europe's largest glacier, and experience Iceland's stunning natural landscapes and thrilling outdoor adventures.
Glacier Adventure
45.2 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Iceland with Glacier Adventure, your gateway to unforgettable glacier tours and thrilling outdoor activities.
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.
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.
Fagrifoss
67.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Fagrifoss Waterfall, a hidden gem in Iceland's stunning landscapes, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Hafið
86.8 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Hafið in Höfn, where local drinks and a friendly vibe create unforgettable nights.
