How to Plan Your Skaftafell: Ice Cave Tour and Glacier Hike

Planning a tour to visit a unique natural Ice Cave like Skaftafell can be one of the highlights of your Iceland travel experience. In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know to plan your Skaftafell: Ice Cave Tour and Glacier Hike.

What to Expect on the Tour

The tour focuses on exploring the beauty of the Falljokull Glacier, an outlet glacier of the Vatnajökull ice cap, and visiting a naturally-formed ice cave. Throughout the tour, you will be accompanied by a professional guide who will take you to the base of the Falljokull glacier, hiking up to the cave.

As you move towards the cave, you will get to witness stunning ice formations and glacier mills. It is important to remember that glacier morphology changes over time, which means that the unique ice formations you see on the day of the tour may vary slightly in shape than any pictures you may have previously seen. At the ice cave, you will get to see the natural beauty of blue ice formations – an incredible sight that is hard to describe in words.

The tour also includes visiting Skaftafell National Park, home to Vatnajökull, the largest glacier in Europe. You will be able to explore the area and see its natural beauty in its true form.

Things to Keep in Mind

When planning your Skaftafell: Ice Cave Tour and Glacier Hike, there are a few things you should keep in mind.

Firstly, this tour is not suitable for children under eight years old. Secondly, it is essential to remember that you will be hiking up a glacier and going into an ice cave with specific equipment. It is imperative that you follow the instructions given by the professional guide at all times.

The tour includes glacier gear, a licensed guide, glacier water, and hotel pickup and drop-off, and you should dress appropriately for the weather conditions at the time of the tour.

How to Book the Tour

Booking for the tour can be done easily by clicking on this link. Using the link will take you to the official GetYourGuide website, where you can find more information about the tour and complete the booking process.

Packing List for the Tour

To make sure you have a comfortable and enjoyable experience, we recommend packing the following:

• Warm base layers and waterproof clothing
• Hiking boots
• Sunglasses and sunscreen
• A hat that covers your ears
• A camera to capture the stunning views

Conclusion

Visiting Skaftafell and exploring the natural beauty of the Falljokull glacier and ice cave can be an unforgettable experience. By following our guide, you will know exactly what to expect and how to plan your tour. Don’t forget to book your tour through the official GetYourGuide link we provided to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Get ready to embark on an adventure like never before!

The Insider’s Guide to Skaftafell, Iceland

Skaftafell is a stunning national park located in southeastern Iceland and is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. Home to breathtaking glaciers, towering waterfalls, soaring mountains, and adventurous hiking trails, Skaftafell offers something for everyone. Here’s your insider’s guide to the best attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions in Skaftafell.

Attractions

Skaftafell National Park: Without a doubt, the main attraction in Skaftafell is the stunning national park. Visitors to this breathtaking park can hike one of several trails to enjoy the views of flowing waterfalls, endless glaciers, and soaring mountains.

Ice Cave Tour: One of the most exciting activities in Skaftafell is taking an ice cave tour. These tours give visitors the chance to explore the magnificent ice caves of the Vatnajökull Glacier, which is Europe’s largest glacier.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon: Located just an hour away from Skaftafell, the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is one of Iceland’s most beautiful destinations. Visitors can watch icebergs break off from the glacier and float in the lagoon, creating an unforgettable experience.

Dining Spots

Svartifoss Cafe: Located inside the Skaftafell Visitor Center, this cafe offers a variety of sandwiches, soups, and delicious baked goods. It’s the perfect spot for a quick bite after a long hike or before an ice cave tour.

Humarhöfnin: This small, charming restaurant is located just outside the national park and is renowned for its lobster dishes. Visitors can enjoy fresh lobster cooked to perfection, along with other seafood options.

Cultural Experiences

The Viking Museum: Located just outside the national park, the Viking Museum is a perfect stop for anyone interested in Icelandic history and culture. Visitors can learn about the Viking era, see historical artifacts, and participate in a traditional Viking feast.

Local Artisan Market: The Skaftafell Visitor Center hosts a local artisan market where visitors can purchase handmade Icelandic crafts and souvenirs. The market is open year-round, and the perfect spot to pick up unique gifts to take home.

Local History

Skaftafell was originally inhabited by Norse farmers who settled in the area in the 9th century. The region was later used as a base for outlaws in the 17th and 18th centuries before becoming a national park in 1967. Skaftafell played a significant role during World War II when it was a base for British troops.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Laufskálavarða: Just a short drive from Skaftafell, visitors can find Laufskálavarða, a unique type of Icelandic cairn where visitors can leave behind small stones or rocks. This practice is said to bring good luck to travelers.

Skaftafellsjökull: For a more secluded and peaceful hike, visitors can head to Skaftafellsjökull. This lesser-known glacier provides a more intimate look at the rugged beauty of Iceland’s glaciers.

In conclusion, Skaftafell National Park is a must-visit destination in Iceland, with breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural experiences. From exploring the stunning glaciers to sampling fresh seafood and learning about Viking history and culture – there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast or looking for a more relaxed trip, Skaftafell is a destination you don’t want to miss.