Skaftafell

You can find Skaftafell on the south coast of Iceland. It’s part of the country’s largest national park – Vatnajökull. The Skaftafell area is on the Reykjavík side of the national park, so it’s a great place to begin your adventures in Vatnajökull.

There’s plenty for you to see and do in Skaftafell! There’s something for you, whether you’re a keen hiker, nature lover, or just want to admire epic landscapes.

Check out these ideas for what you can do in Skaftafell:

• Set out on a day hike or join a guided walking group for an unforgettable introduction to the area.
• Spend time birdwatching during the summer months – just remember your binoculars.
• Go on a guided glacier hike across one of the small outlet glaciers, such as Fjallsjökull.
• Marvel at Skaftafell’s many waterfalls. If you have to pick one, we recommend Svartifoss. It’s a 20-m (65ft) high waterfall surrounded by basalt columns - perfect for striking photos!
• Stroll along Diamond Beach and see icebergs from Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon drift ashore.
• Head to the Skaftafell visitor center, where you’ll get useful insights, including maps and guides in English.

This depends on what you want to see and do during your time here.

If you want to go on a hike, then make sure to plan ahead. Add some extra time to the estimate given at the Skaftafell visitor center to allow for lunch or snack breaks. The trails here vary in length, from around 1 hour to full-day outings.

Otherwise, you’ll want to give yourself enough time to explore a little and see a waterfall or two. We recommend about 2 to 4 hours minimum for a relaxed visit.

There is a parking charge for visiting Skaftafell. That said, it’s well worth it to see such a special slice of Iceland. How much you pay will depend on the size of your vehicle. You can find up-to-date prices on the Skaftafell website.

If you’re visiting on a bus tour then your entry fee will often be covered in the cost of your tour package.