Discover the Majestic Vatnajökull Glacier
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Vatnajökull Glacier, Europe's largest glacier, where adventure and nature collide in stunning Icelandic landscapes.
Vatnajökull, the largest glacier in Europe, offers breathtaking landscapes, stunning ice formations, and an array of outdoor adventures, making it a must-visit destination for tourists seeking the beauty of Iceland's natural wonders.
A brief summary to Vatnajokull
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Local tips
- Dress in layers; weather can vary dramatically, even in summer.
- Book guided tours in advance, especially during peak season.
- Bring a camera with a good zoom lens to capture the stunning ice formations.
- Respect all safety guidelines provided by your tour guides.
- Check for ice cave accessibility, as they vary each year depending on weather conditions.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car within Vatnajokull National Park, navigate to Route 1 (the Ring Road) which encircles the island. From there, head southeast towards Höfn. After approximately 60 kilometers, take the exit towards Route 998, which leads directly into Vatnajokull National Park. Follow the signs for Vatnajokull, and you will reach the glacier area where you can park and explore.
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Public Transportation
To reach Vatnajokull National Park via public transportation, take a bus from Reykjavik to Höfn. Once you arrive in Höfn, you can catch a local shuttle or tour bus that operates within the national park. Make sure to inform the driver of your destination, and they will drop you off at a designated spot near Vatnajokull. Be sure to check the bus schedules in advance, as they may vary seasonally.
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Hiking
If you are already within the vicinity of Vatnajokull National Park and wish to hike, start from the visitor center at Skaftafell. From there, take the marked trails leading towards the glacier. The trails are well signposted, and it is recommended to follow the 'Svartifoss Trail' which gives you stunning views of the glacier along the way. Make sure to wear appropriate hiking gear and carry enough water.
Discover more about Vatnajokull
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Kverkfjöll
25.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Kverkfjöll, where Iceland's volcanoes and glaciers create a stunning natural paradise for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
Morsaldalur
40.6 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and serene beauty of Morsaldalur Ravine, a hidden gem in Iceland perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Skaftafellsheidhi
43.8 km
Explore the serene shrubbery and stunning landscapes of Skaftafellsheidhi, a hidden gem in Iceland perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Svinafellsjokull
44.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Svinafellsjokull Glacier, a must-see destination in Iceland's stunning Vatnajökull National Park.
Saatvik Restaurant (Kaffiterían Skaftafelli)
45.9 km
Discover Saatvik Restaurant in Skaftafell: your go-to spot for delicious meals and refreshments amidst Iceland's breathtaking landscapes.
Glacier Goodies
45.9 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
45.9 km
Discover the breathtaking glaciers and stunning landscapes of Skaftafell with expert guidance from Icelandic Mountain Guides.
Arctic Adventures - Glacier Guides
45.9 km
Discover Iceland's stunning glaciers with Arctic Adventures - Glacier Guides, offering unforgettable tours in Skaftafell National Park.
Arctic Adventures (Skaftafell Base Camp)
45.9 km
Discover the stunning glaciers and breathtaking landscapes of Iceland at Arctic Adventures - Skaftafell Base Camp, your gateway to unforgettable glacier adventures.
Skaftafell tjaldsvæði
46.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Skaftafell Campground in Iceland, a perfect escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Skaftafell & Svartifoss Parking
46.1 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Iceland at Skaftafell & Svartifoss Parking, your gateway to iconic hikes and stunning natural wonders.
Unmissable attractions to see
Morsárfoss
34.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Morsárfoss, an iconic waterfall in Iceland, surrounded by majestic glaciers and mountains.
Kverkfjöll Ice Cave
35.1 km
Explore the breathtaking Kverkfjöll Ice Cave in Iceland, where stunning ice formations and unique geological wonders create a natural masterpiece.
Breiðamerkurjökull
35.3 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Breiðamerkurjökull, Iceland's majestic glacier, with its stunning ice formations and serene landscapes.
Nacional Skaftafell
35.4 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Nacional Skaftafell, a stunning park in Iceland perfect for hiking, photography, and experiencing nature's wonders.
Skaftafellsjökull
39.8 km
Explore the breathtaking Skaftafellsjökull Glacier, a stunning natural wonder in Iceland's Vatnajökull National Park that promises adventure and unforgettable views.
Skaftafell
40.1 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and stunning waterfalls at Skaftafell, a nature lover's paradise within Vatnajökull National Park.
Grænalón
40.5 km
Explore the serene beauty and captivating landscapes of Grænallón, a must-visit tourist attraction in the heart of Iceland.
Blue Ice Cave
42.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Blue Ice Cave in Iceland, a stunning natural wonder inviting adventure and exploration.
Skaftafell Glacier
44.4 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Skaftafell Glacier, a mesmerizing nature preserve in Iceland with stunning trails and unique geological wonders.
Svartifoss Trail
44.8 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Svartifoss Trail, where stunning waterfalls and unique landscapes await every adventurer in Iceland's Skaftafell.
Svartifoss
44.8 km
Explore Svartifoss, the stunning Black Waterfall in Iceland's Vatnajökull National Park, known for its majestic basalt columns and breathtaking scenery.
Vatnajökull National Park
45.0 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Vatnajökull National Park, Iceland's largest national park, where glaciers, waterfalls, and wildlife await your exploration.
Skaftafellsjökull gönguleið
45.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Skaftafellsjökull, where stunning glaciers meet cascading waterfalls in Iceland's natural wonderland.
Sel
45.4 km
Explore the captivating historical landmark of Sel, surrounded by Iceland's stunning natural beauty and rich cultural stories.
Magnúsarfoss
45.5 km
Experience the stunning beauty of Magnúsarfoss, a breathtaking waterfall in Skaftafell National Park, perfect for hiking and nature lovers.
Essential places to dine
Þórbergssetur - Cultural Center & Restaurant
49.5 km
Explore Þórbergssetur: A unique blend of Icelandic culture and cuisine nestled in breathtaking Suðursveit.
Hali Country Hotel & Restaurant
49.5 km
Discover comfort and authentic cuisine at Hali Country Hotel & Restaurant, your perfect base for exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Höfn, Iceland.
Fjallsárlón Frost Restaurant
49.5 km
Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine with breathtaking glacier views at Fjallsárlón Frost Restaurant.
Nailed It Fish and Chips
51.0 km
Savor the best fish and chips in Iceland at Nailed It Fish and Chips near Jökulsárlón - where fresh seafood meets stunning landscapes.
Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon
58.7 km
Discover tranquility at Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon - your gateway to Iceland's stunning glaciers and breathtaking landscapes.
Jon Riki
64.7 km
Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Jon Riki in Höfn - where fresh local ingredients meet cozy ambiance.
Hotel Restaurant Vatnajökull
73.6 km
Experience exquisite Icelandic cuisine amidst stunning natural beauty at Hotel Restaurant Vatnajökull in Höfn.
Hotel Jökull
76.0 km
Experience comfort and stunning landscapes at Hotel Jökull - your gateway to Iceland's breathtaking fjords and glaciers.
Kaffi Hornid
78.4 km
Discover authentic Icelandic flavors at Kaffi Hornid in Höfn – where every dish tells a story amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Hafnarbuðin
78.6 km
Discover delicious Icelandic cuisine at Hafnarbuðin, where family-friendly dining meets local flavor in beautiful Höfn.
Otto Matur & Drykkur
78.7 km
Experience authentic Icelandic cuisine at Otto Matur & Drykkur in Höfn - where local flavors meet stunning coastal views.
Pakkhús Restaurant
78.7 km
Experience exquisite Icelandic cuisine with stunning coastal views at Pakkhús Restaurant in Höfn.
Ishusid Pizzeria Restaurant
78.8 km
Discover the unique blend of pizza and fresh seafood at Ishusid Pizzeria in Höfn, where local flavors meet culinary creativity.
Gígur
91.8 km
Discover authentic Icelandic flavors at Gígur, where local ingredients meet breathtaking views in Kirkjubæjarklaustur.
Restaurant Bistro Magma Hotel
92.5 km
Experience exquisite dining at Bistro Magma Hotel, where local flavors meet stunning Icelandic landscapes.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Hotel Skaftafell
48.2 km
Explore the beauty of Iceland while enjoying comfort and convenience at Hotel Skaftafell, your perfect base for adventure.
Söluskálinn í Freysnesi
48.2 km
Experience the best of Icelandic cuisine at Söluskálinn í Freysnesi, a unique gas station, restaurant, and store offering local delights.
Glacier and Volcano Expeditions
48.3 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Iceland with Glacier and Volcano Expeditions, where adventure meets natural beauty in unforgettable tours.
Orkan
48.3 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
48.3 km
Discover the flavors of Iceland at Veitingasala Restaurant in Svínafell, where local ingredients meet a cozy atmosphere.
The potato storage
49.2 km
Experience Icelandic hospitality at The Potato Storage, a cozy guest house in Svínafell, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and unique charm.
Litla-Herad EFH
57.1 km
Discover the charm of Litla-Herad EFH, a cozy coffee shop in Fagurhólsmýri offering delicious brews and stunning Icelandic views.
Vesturhus Hostel
57.3 km
Discover the charm of Vesturhus Hostel, where comfort meets affordability in the stunning landscapes of Iceland, perfect for adventurous travelers.
Hof
57.4 km
Explore Hof for a unique selection of Icelandic crafts and souvenirs, capturing the essence of Icelandic culture in every product.
Cafe Vatnajökull
60.5 km
Discover Café Vatnajökull: an artful café near Vatnajökull National Park, serving fresh pastries and coffee in a stunning natural setting.
Lambhus Glacier View Cabins by Vatnajökull National Park
65.3 km
Discover the serene beauty of Lambhus Glacier View Cabins, your perfect retreat near Vatnajökull National Park, Iceland’s breathtaking natural wonder.
Glacier World Guesthouse
69.6 km
Discover the serene beauty of Iceland at Glacier World Guesthouse, your cozy bed and breakfast surrounded by majestic glaciers and breathtaking landscapes.
Dreki
69.6 km
Experience the breathtaking wilderness at Dreki Mountain Cabin, the perfect retreat for adventurers and nature lovers alike in Iceland.
Askja trail
71.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Askja Trail, where stunning landscapes and volcanic wonders await in Iceland's majestic highlands.
Fosshotel Vatnajökull
73.6 km
Discover the stunning landscapes and warm hospitality at Fosshotel Vatnajökull, your gateway to Icelandic adventures.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Hótel Jökulsarlon - Glacier Lagoon Hotel
48.3 km
Discover the beauty of Iceland at Hótel Jökulsarlon, where luxury meets nature by the stunning Glacier Lagoon.
Guesthouse Gerði
49.8 km
Discover a cozy haven at Guesthouse Gerði, where comfort meets the breathtaking landscapes of Höfn, Iceland.
Fancy Sheep
51.0 km
Experience the unique flavors of Iceland at Fancy Sheep, a fast food restaurant nestled in the magnificent landscapes of Jökulsárlón.
Fosshótel Núpar
71.0 km
Experience the beauty of Iceland at Fosshótel Núpar, your perfect retreat surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and rich local culture.
Hafið
78.8 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Hafið in Höfn, where local drinks and a friendly vibe create unforgettable nights.
Fagrifoss
93.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Fagrifoss Waterfall, a hidden gem in Iceland's stunning landscapes, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Hoffell Hot Tubs
69.6 km
Experience tranquility and nature's beauty at Hoffell Hot Tubs, where relaxation meets Icelandic charm in stunning thermal baths.
Rúntkastið
78.1 km
Experience the joy of Icelandic comedy at Rúntkastið, Höfn's premier comedy club, where laughter and local culture come alive.
