Skaftafell Glacier Hike: The Ultimate Guide

Are you looking for a thrilling hiking adventure that offers spectacular views and an unforgettable experience? Look no further than the Skaftafell Glacier Hike in Iceland!

Experience

On this tour, you will hike on the stunning outlet glacier of Vatnajökull and see the epic mountains of Skaftafell National Park. You’ll get views of one of Europe’s largest glaciers at Vatnajökull and experience what it feels like to walk on impacted ice.

Highlights

This tour offers several highlights that make it a must-do for any adventure seeker. Here are some of the highlights of the Skaftafell Glacier Hike: – Experience the epic wilderness of Iceland on a guided hike – Walk on the stunning Vatnajökull glacier – See crevasses and deep cracks on the surface of the glacier – Learn about the vertical shafts known as moulins and how they are formed – Get breathtaking views of the ice-covered peaks of Skaftafell National Park – Use glacier hiking equipment such as crampons, ice axes, harnesses, and helmets

Full Description

Your experience on the Skaftafell Glacier Hike begins with meeting your guide, who will provide you with all the necessary equipment for your hike, including crampons, ice axes, harnesses, and helmets. You’ll then take a bus to the start of your hike, where you’ll put on your crampons and steel frames tied to your hiking boots. Once you’re equipped, your guide will take you on a hike across the outlet glacier of Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier. You’ll spend around 60 to 90 minutes on the ice, where you’ll get to see crevasses and deep cracks on the surface of the glacier. Your guide will also teach you about the vertical shafts known as moulins and how they are formed when melting water finds its way into the fissures and cracks. The highlight of the tour is undoubtedly the breathtaking views of the ice-covered peaks of Skaftafell National Park. You’ll get to witness the natural beauty of Iceland’s wilderness and take in the majestic scenery of one of Europe’s largest glaciers.

Includes

The tour includes a live guide and all the necessary glacier hiking equipment you need, including crampons, ice axes, harnesses, and helmets. If you don’t have hiking boots or clothes suitable for the hike, they are available for rent. Please note that this tour is not suitable for children under 8 years.

How to Book

Book the Skaftafell Glacier Hike tour by visiting the following link: book the tour here. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable adventure!

FAQs about Skaftafell

Skaftafell is a fantastic part of Iceland that is visited every year by thousands of tourists. It includes a national park and a glacier that are certainly worth seeing. To help make your trip to Skaftafell as stress-free as possible, we’ve created an FAQ that answers many common questions.

1. Where is Skaftafell?

Skaftafell is in the southern region of Iceland between Kirkjubæjarklaustur and Höfn. The nearest towns to Skaftafell are Selfoss and Vik.

2. What is the best time of year to visit Skaftafell?

Skaftafell can be visited year-round, but the best time to go is typically between May and September. During these months, the weather is mild, and there are fewer chances of snow and ice on the roads.

3. What are the main attractions in Skaftafell?

Skaftafell is famous for its glacier hikes and ice cave tours. The national park is also a great place for hiking, with fantastic trails of varying lengths and difficulties. Some of the top attractions in the area include the Svartifoss waterfall, the Skeiðarárjökull glacier tongue, and the Morsárdalur valley.

4. What kind of clothing should I wear when visiting Skaftafell?

Because Skaftafell can be quite chilly, we recommend wearing warm waterproof clothing. Layers are a great idea as the weather can change quickly in Iceland. You should also bring sturdy hiking shoes, gloves, a hat, and a scarf.

5. Can I book a guided tour of Skaftafell?

Yes, there are many guided tours of Skaftafell available. Whether you want to hike a glacier or see the ice caves, there are a variety of tour companies that will take you around the area. We recommend booking early to ensure availability, particularly during peak season.

6. Are there any camping facilities in Skaftafell?

Yes, there is a campsite within the Skaftafell National Park. It is open from the beginning of May until mid-September, and reservations can be made online. The campsite has a kitchen, showers, and laundry facilities.

7. Is it possible to see the Northern Lights in Skaftafell?

Yes, it is possible to see the Northern Lights in Skaftafell. However, it is important to plan a visit during the right time of year, which is typically from September to April. It is also important to monitor the aurora activity forecast and try to find areas away from light pollution.

8. What kind of food options are available in Skaftafell?

There are a few restaurants and cafes in the Skaftafell area. The visitor center in the national park serves snacks and beverages, while the nearby Hotel Skaftafell serves a range of meals.

9. Can I drive myself to Skaftafell?

Yes, you can drive yourself to Skaftafell. The Ring Road (Route 1) passes through the area, and there are parking lots available near the national park.

10. Are there any safety considerations when visiting Skaftafell?

While Skaftafell can be a safe destination, visitors should be careful when hiking or participating in guided tours. Proper equipment and clothing are crucial, as is following any instructions from guides. Additionally, visitors should be aware of potential hazards, such as crevasses in the glacier or sudden weather changes.

Book Your Tour Now:

Skaftafell is a must-see destination for any traveler interested in the natural beauty of Iceland. By following these FAQs, you can have a fun and safe trip to this area of the country. Remember to dress appropriately, consider booking a guided tour, and be aware of safety considerations when hiking or exploring. Happy travels!

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Skaftafell

Located in the southeast of Iceland, Skaftafell is a national park that attracts thousands of tourists every year due to its stunning scenery and unique landscape. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a nature lover or simply curious about Icelandic culture, there are plenty of things to do in Skaftafell. In this post, we’ll give you an overview of how to spend your time as a tourist in Skaftafell, from the must-visit natural marvels to cultural attractions.

1. Take a Glacier Hiking Tour

One of the most popular activities in Skaftafell is glacier hiking. The park offers a plethora of guided tours that take you through the icy terrain of nearby glaciers. You’ll get to explore the natural beauty of the park while experiencing its unique climate. These tours are suitable for people of all hiking levels and are quite safe due to the knowledgeable tour guides who lead the way. It’s an unforgettable experience that showcases the raw power of nature.

2. Explore the Park’s Waterfalls

Another must-see attraction in Skaftafell are the several nearby waterfalls. The most popular ones include Svartifoss (which translates to “black waterfall”) and the stunning Seljalandsfoss, which is one of the most photographed waterfalls in Iceland. Svartifoss is known for its unique basalt column formations that surround its cascading waters. Seljalandsfoss, on the other hand, allows visitors to walk behind it, providing an incredible vantage point from which to view the falls.

3. Visit the Skaftafell Visitor Centre

If you want to learn more about the park’s history, flora and fauna, a visit to the Skaftafell Visitor Centre is a must. Here, you can find comprehensive information on the history and landscape of the park, as well as details on guided tours and hikes, making it an ideal place to plan your visit. The centre also has a small shop where you can purchase souvenirs relating to Skaftafell and Icelandic nature.

4. Take a Stroll on the park’s hiking trails

Skaftafell is known for its great hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes that reward your efforts with breathtaking views. A popular hiking trail is the Skaftafellsjökull glacier trail, which is a 4-hour round trip with a breathtaking overlook of the glacier at the top. Other popular trails include the Valley Trail which showcases vast expanses of meadows, towering peaks and river crossings.

5. Discover Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Jökulsárlón is one of Iceland’s natural wonders and an unmissable experience. It’s a large glacier lagoon filled with large icebergs, that have broken off from the glacier and float onto the lagoon, creating an impressive landscape. Visitors can take a boat tour where they can get up close with the floating icebergs or simply take a short walk around the lagoon.

6. Go Bird Watching

Skaftafell is a great spot for birdwatching, as it is home to numerous species that are native to Iceland, including the Arctic Tern and the Golden Plover. While hiking around the park, keep your eyes (and ears) open to spot these incredible birds in their natural habitat.

7. Try Icelandic Cuisine

No trip to Iceland would be complete without trying some of the country’s unique cuisine. In Skaftafell, there are plenty of opportunities to do just that. Local restaurants and cafes offer traditional Icelandic dishes such as Skyr (a type of yoghurt), Plokkfiskur (a stew made with fish and potato) and, of course, the famous Icelandic hot dog. These dishes are hearty and delicious, perfect for fueling up after a day of hiking.

Book Your Tour Now

Skaftafell National Park is truly a unique and breathtaking destination, with experiences and adventures for everyone. From hiking and glacier tours to stunning waterfalls and cultural attractions, there truly is something for everyone in this Icelandic paradise. So, whether you’re travelling solo, with friends or with family, pack your bags and head over to Skaftafell for an unforgettable experience!