Discover the Enchantment of Skaftafell National Park
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Skaftafell National Park, where glaciers, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife await every nature lover.
Skaftafell National Park, nestled in the heart of Iceland, offers breathtaking landscapes, stunning glaciers, and a myriad of hiking trails, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. With its diverse wildlife and picturesque waterfalls, this protected area ensures an unforgettable experience for all who venture into its serene beauty.
A brief summary to Skaftafell
- Skaftafell, 785, IS
- +3544708300
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for fewer crowds and the best lighting for photography.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots and dress in layers to adapt to the changing weather conditions.
- Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning landscapes and unique geological features.
- Check for guided tours if you wish to explore the glacier areas safely and learn from experienced guides.
- Bring a packed lunch and enjoy it at one of the scenic viewpoints within the park.
Getting There
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Car
From anywhere in Vatnajökull National Park, head towards the main road, Route 1 (the Ring Road). If you are near the visitor center or other attractions, look for signs directing you to Route 1. Once on Route 1, drive east towards Skaftafell. You will see signs for Skaftafell after approximately 45-60 minutes of travel. The entrance to Skaftafell is well marked, and you will find a parking area upon arrival. Parking fees may apply, so ensure you have some Icelandic Króna ready.
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Public Transportation
If you are using public transportation, check the schedules for bus services that operate in the region. The Strætó bus service runs routes that include stops at Skaftafell. Depending on your starting point, you may need to take a bus to Höfn and then transfer to a bus heading towards Skaftafell. Make sure to check the latest bus schedules on the Strætó website, as they can vary by season. Note that bus tickets are required and can be purchased at bus stations or on the bus.
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Shuttle Service
Some tour operators offer shuttle services directly to Skaftafell from major towns or tourist hubs. If you prefer a more guided experience, consider booking a tour that includes transportation to Skaftafell. This will usually cover the transportation cost, but check for any additional fees or requirements while booking.
Discover more about Skaftafell
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Morsaldalur
0.8 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and serene beauty of Morsaldalur Ravine, a hidden gem in Iceland perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Skaftafellsheidhi
3.7 km
Explore the serene shrubbery and stunning landscapes of Skaftafellsheidhi, a hidden gem in Iceland perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
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
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
6.0 km
Discover the breathtaking glaciers and stunning landscapes of Skaftafell with expert guidance from Icelandic Mountain Guides.
Arctic Adventures - Glacier Guides
6.0 km
Discover Iceland's stunning glaciers with Arctic Adventures - Glacier Guides, offering unforgettable tours in Skaftafell National Park.
Arctic Adventures (Skaftafell Base Camp)
6.0 km
Discover the stunning glaciers and breathtaking landscapes of Iceland at Arctic Adventures - Skaftafell Base Camp, your gateway to unforgettable glacier adventures.
Skaftafell tjaldsvæði
6.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Skaftafell Campground in Iceland, a perfect escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Skaftafell & Svartifoss Parking
6.2 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Iceland at Skaftafell & Svartifoss Parking, your gateway to iconic hikes and stunning natural wonders.
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
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Svinafellsjokull Glacier, a must-see destination in Iceland's stunning Vatnajökull National Park.
The potato storage
11.7 km
Experience the charm of Iceland at The Potato Storage, a unique guest house in Svínafel, perfect for adventurers and nature lovers.
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
Explore Svartifoss, the stunning Black Waterfall in Iceland's Vatnajökull National Park, known for its majestic basalt columns and breathtaking scenery.
Nacional Skaftafell
4.8 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Nacional Skaftafell, a stunning park in Iceland perfect for hiking, photography, and experiencing nature's wonders.
Sel
5.3 km
Explore the captivating historical landmark of Sel, surrounded by Iceland's stunning natural beauty and rich cultural stories.
Skaftafellsjökull
5.5 km
Explore the breathtaking Skaftafellsjökull Glacier, a stunning natural wonder in Iceland's Vatnajökull National Park that promises adventure and unforgettable views.
Magnúsarfoss
5.5 km
Experience the stunning beauty of Magnúsarfoss, a breathtaking waterfall in Skaftafell National Park, perfect for hiking and nature lovers.
Skaftafellsjökull gönguleið
5.5 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Skaftafellsjökull, where stunning glaciers meet cascading waterfalls in Iceland's natural wonderland.
Skaftafell Glacier
5.6 km
Discover the stunning beauty of Skaftafell Glacier, a nature preserve in Iceland where ice meets volcanic landscapes, offering breathtaking views and outdoor adventures.
Hundafoss
5.6 km
Explore the breathtaking Hundafoss Waterfall along the Svartifoss Trail, a stunning natural wonder in Iceland surrounded by magnificent 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
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Morsárfoss, an iconic waterfall in Iceland, surrounded by majestic glaciers and mountains.
Skaftafell Terminal - Tour Center
7.6 km
Embark on unforgettable adventures at Skaftafell Terminal, your essential tour center for exploring Iceland's stunning Vatnajökull National Park.
Melrakki Adventures
7.6 km
Experience the thrill of glacier hikes and outdoor adventures with expert guides at Melrakki Adventures in Iceland's stunning landscapes.
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
Discover comfort and authentic cuisine at Hali Country Hotel & Restaurant, your perfect base for exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Höfn, Iceland.
Gígur
58.4 km
Discover authentic Icelandic flavors at Gígur, where local ingredients meet breathtaking views in Kirkjubæjarklaustur.
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
Discover the flavors of Iceland at Veitingasala Restaurant in Svínafell, where local ingredients meet a cozy atmosphere.
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
Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Iceland with Glacier and Volcano Expeditions, where adventure meets natural beauty in unforgettable tours.
Hotel Skaftafell
9.8 km
Explore the beauty of Iceland while enjoying comfort and convenience at Hotel Skaftafell, your perfect base for adventure.
Litla-Herad EFH
21.7 km
Discover the charm of Litla-Herad EFH, a cozy coffee shop in Fagurhólsmýri offering delicious brews and stunning Icelandic views.
Vesturhus Hostel
22.3 km
Discover the charm of Vesturhus Hostel, where comfort meets affordability in the stunning landscapes of Iceland, perfect for adventurous travelers.
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
Discover Café Vatnajökull: an artful café near Vatnajökull National Park, serving fresh pastries and coffee in a stunning natural setting.
Vatnajokull
40.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Vatnajökull, Europe's largest glacier, and experience Iceland's stunning natural landscapes and thrilling outdoor adventures.
Glacier Adventure
47.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Iceland with Glacier Adventure, your gateway to unforgettable glacier tours and thrilling outdoor activities.
Random Klausturbúð
60.1 km
Explore the charm of Random Klausturbúð, a gift shop in Kirkjubæjarklaustur, offering unique Icelandic souvenirs and local handicrafts.
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
Experience the unique flavors of Iceland at Fancy Sheep, a fast food restaurant nestled in the magnificent landscapes of Jökulsárlón.
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.