Discover the Untamed Beauty of Skaftafell
Explore the stunning landscapes and diverse trails of Skaftafell, a nature preserve in Iceland's Vatnajökull National Park, perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
Skaftafell, a stunning nature preserve in Iceland, offers breathtaking landscapes, diverse hiking trails, and unique geological features, making it a must-visit for tourists seeking adventure and natural beauty.
A brief summary to Skaftafell
- Skaftafell, 785, IS
- +3544708300
- Visit website
Local tips
- Dress in layers to accommodate the unpredictable weather.
- Start your hike early to avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquility of nature.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and unique geological features.
- Check the visitor center for trail updates and safety information before heading out.
- Consider guided tours for a deeper understanding of the area's geology and ecology.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving from Reykjavik, take Route 1 (the Ring Road) heading east. After about 330 km, you will pass through towns such as Hella and Kirkjubæjarklaustur. Continue on Route 1 until you see the sign for Skaftafell. Turn onto Route 998 towards Skaftafell National Park. The drive takes approximately 4.5-5 hours depending on traffic and road conditions. There are parking fees at Skaftafell, so be prepared to pay around 1,000 ISK for a day pass.
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Public Transportation
To reach Skaftafell by public transport, you can take a bus from Reykjavik to Skaftafell. The bus service is operated by Straeto, and you can check schedules on their website. The journey will take about 5-6 hours with stops along the way. Make sure to book your ticket in advance. Once you arrive at the Skaftafell bus stop, it's a short walk to the visitor center and trailheads. Bus fare is approximately 6,000 ISK one way.
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Taxi
If you're looking for a more direct route and don't mind the expense, you can hire a taxi from the nearest town or from Reykjavik. Be aware that this option can be quite costly, often exceeding 60,000 ISK for a one-way trip. The taxi will take you directly to the Skaftafell National Park entrance, making it a convenient but pricey option.
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Guided Tour
Consider joining a guided tour that includes transportation to Skaftafell. Many tour companies in Reykjavik offer day trips to the national park, which typically include pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation, along with a guided experience. This can range from 12,000 to 20,000 ISK per person depending on the inclusions.
Discover more about Skaftafell
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Morsaldalur
0.8 km
Explore the breathtaking Morsaldalur Ravine, a natural wonder in Iceland known for its stunning landscapes and unique geological formations.
Skaftafellsheidhi
3.7 km
Discover the serene beauty of Skaftafellsheidhi, Iceland's enchanting shrubbery area, and immerse yourself in its unique flora and breathtaking landscapes.
Saatvik Restaurant (Kaffiterían Skaftafelli)
6.0 km
Discover Saatvik Restaurant in Skaftafell: your go-to spot for delicious meals and refreshments amidst Iceland's breathtaking landscapes.
Glacier Goodies
6.0 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
6.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Vatnajökull National Park with Icelandic Mountain Guides at Skaftafell Base Camp, where adventure awaits.
Arctic Adventures - Glacier Guides
6.0 km
Unleash your adventurous spirit with Arctic Adventures - Glacier Guides in Skaftafell, exploring Iceland's breathtaking glaciers and stunning landscapes.
Arctic Adventures (Skaftafell Base Camp)
6.0 km
Explore the breathtaking glaciers and stunning landscapes of Vatnajökull National Park with Arctic Adventures at Skaftafell Base Camp, Iceland.
Skaftafell tjaldsvæði
6.1 km
Discover the stunning beauty of Skaftafell Campground in Vatnajökull National Park, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Skaftafell & Svartifoss Parking
6.2 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes of Skaftafell and Svartifoss, where nature's beauty unfolds at every turn in Iceland's stunning national park.
Skaftafell Airport
7.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Iceland at Skaftafell Airport, your gateway to glaciers, national parks, and unforgettable adventures.
Atlantsflug - flightseeing.is
7.7 km
Soar through Iceland's breathtaking landscapes with Atlantsflug, the premier flightseeing operator in Reykjavik, for an unforgettable aerial adventure.
Svinafellsjokull
9.4 km
Explore Svinafellsjokull, a breathtaking glacier in Iceland offering stunning views, adventure activities, and unique natural beauty.
The potato storage
11.7 km
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Glacier Horses
12.9 km
Explore breathtaking Icelandic landscapes on horseback with Glacier Horses, an unforgettable adventure in the heart of nature.
Unmissable attractions to see
Svartifoss Trail
4.8 km
Explore the stunning Svartifoss Trail in Skaftafell National Park, featuring breathtaking landscapes and the magnificent Svartifoss waterfall.
Svartifoss
4.8 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Svartifoss, Iceland's iconic Black Waterfall, surrounded by striking basalt columns in Vatnajökull National Park.
Nacional Skaftafell
4.8 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes and adventure-filled trails of Nacional Skaftafell, a must-visit park in the heart of Iceland's stunning nature.
Sel
5.3 km
Explore Sel, a captivating historical landmark in Iceland, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage waiting to be discovered.
Skaftafellsjökull
5.5 km
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Magnúsarfoss
5.5 km
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Skaftafellsjökull gönguleið
5.5 km
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Skaftafell Glacier
5.6 km
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Hundafoss
5.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Hundafoss Waterfall, a must-visit natural wonder in Iceland's stunning landscapes.
Þjófafoss
5.7 km
Explore the enchanting Þjófafoss Waterfall, a hidden gem in Iceland's wilderness, perfect for hiking and breathtaking views.
Skaftafellsstofa
6.0 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Vatnajökull National Park at Skaftafellsstofa Visitor Center, your gateway to Iceland's natural wonders.
Morsárfoss
6.9 km
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Melrakki Adventures
7.6 km
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Skaftafell Terminal - Tour Center
7.6 km
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Svínafellsjökull Glacier
8.9 km
Explore the breathtaking Svínafellsjökull Glacier, a stunning outlet of Vatnajökull, offering unforgettable views and unforgettable experiences in Iceland's wilderness.
Essential places to dine
Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon
26.1 km
Discover tranquility at Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon - your gateway to Iceland's stunning glaciers and breathtaking landscapes.
Fjallsárlón Frost Restaurant
30.2 km
Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine with breathtaking glacier views at Fjallsárlón Frost Restaurant.
Nailed It Fish and Chips
38.8 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
47.0 km
Explore Þórbergssetur: A unique blend of Icelandic culture and cuisine nestled in breathtaking Suðursveit.
Hali Country Hotel & Restaurant
47.0 km
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Gígur
58.4 km
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Restaurant Bistro Magma Hotel
59.9 km
Experience exquisite dining at Bistro Magma Hotel, where local flavors meet stunning Icelandic landscapes.
Systrakaffi
60.9 km
Discover authentic Icelandic cuisine at Systrakaffi, a cozy restaurant nestled in the scenic beauty of Kirkjubæjarklaustur.
Klaustur Restaurant & Bar
61.3 km
Experience the best of traditional Icelandic cuisine at Klaustur Restaurant & Bar in Kirkjubæjarklaustur.
Klaustur Restaurant
61.3 km
Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Klaustur Restaurant in Kirkjubæjarklaustur - where local ingredients meet tradition.
Kjarr Restaurant & Bar
61.6 km
Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Kjarr Restaurant & Bar in Kirkjubæjarklaustur – where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Kjarr Restaurant
61.6 km
Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Kjarr Restaurant in Kirkjubæjarklaustur—where local flavors meet stunning landscapes.
Cafe Munkar
61.7 km
Experience authentic Icelandic flavors at Cafe Munkar in Kirkjubæjarklaustur – where culinary tradition meets modern comfort.
Hunkubakkar Farm Restaurant
65.8 km
Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine surrounded by breathtaking landscapes at Hunkubakkar Farm Restaurant.
Jon Riki
75.8 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
9.7 km
Experience the best of Icelandic cuisine at Söluskálinn í Freysnesi, a unique gas station, restaurant, and store offering local delights.
Veitingasala Restaurant, Shop, And Gas
9.7 km
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Orkan
9.7 km
Discover Orkan in Hof, Iceland—a vital gas station and convenience store, perfect for fueling up and finding local treasures on your journey.
Glacier and Volcano Expeditions
9.7 km
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Hotel Skaftafell
9.8 km
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Litla-Herad EFH
21.7 km
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Vesturhus Hostel
22.3 km
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Hof
22.4 km
Explore Hof for a unique selection of Icelandic crafts and souvenirs, capturing the essence of Icelandic culture in every product.
Cafe Vatnajökull
26.4 km
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Vatnajokull
40.1 km
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Glacier Adventure
47.0 km
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Random Klausturbúð
60.1 km
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Gvendarkjör
61.0 km
Discover Gvendarkjör in Kirkjubæjarklaustur for local goods, fresh produce, and essential supplies during your Icelandic adventure.
Kjarval Klaustur
61.0 km
Discover local flavors and essentials at Kjarval Klaustur, your go-to supermarket in Kirkjubæjarklaustur, Iceland.
Pharmacy
61.2 km
Visit the Kirkjubæjarklaustur Pharmacy for essential health supplies and expert advice while enjoying Iceland's stunning scenery.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Fancy Sheep
38.8 km
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Fosshótel Núpar
39.2 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
44.4 km
Discover the beauty of Iceland at Hótel Jökulsarlon, where luxury meets nature by the stunning Glacier Lagoon.
Guesthouse Gerði
47.2 km
Discover a cozy haven at Guesthouse Gerði, where comfort meets the breathtaking landscapes of Höfn, Iceland.
Fagrifoss
66.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Fagrifoss Waterfall, a hidden gem in Iceland's stunning landscapes, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Hafið
88.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Hafið in Höfn, where local drinks and a friendly vibe create unforgettable nights.
