Skaftafell - Discovering Iceland

Travelling to Skaftafell

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Skaftafell, a pretty good destination in Iceland (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Skaftafell and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Skaftafell, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Iceland, here's everything to know about Skaftafell for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Skaftafell

Skaftafell is a wilderness area in southeast Iceland, located in Vatnajökull National Park. It is situated between the glaciers and mountains of the Icelandic highlands, and offers a unique glimpse into Iceland's natural beauty. Visitors can explore the park's beautiful hiking trails, take a glacier tour, or admire the nearby waterfalls and canyon. The area's diverse landscape includes everything from glacial lakes to volcanic ridges, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Skaftafell is one of Iceland's most popular tourist attractions, and should not be missed on a trip to the country.

What to visit in Skaftafell

Sure, here are some of the popular tourist attractions located in and around Skaftafell, Iceland: 1. Svartifoss Waterfall - This is a stunning waterfall that cascades down a wall of black basalt columns. It is a short hike from the visitor center in Skaftafell and is approximately 20 meters high.
2. Skaftafellsjokull Glacier - This is a beautiful glacier that is part of the Vatnajökull glacier. You can take guided glacier hikes or tours to explore the glacier.
3. Skaftafell National Park - This is a beautiful park that covers an area of 4800 km². It has a diverse range of flora and fauna, including rare species such as arctic foxes.
4. Svinafellsjokull Glacier - This is another glacier that is easily accessible from Skaftafell National Park. It is a popular location for hiking and ice climbing.
5. Hvannadalshnukur Mountain - This is the highest peak in Iceland, and it is located near Skaftafell National Park. It is a popular destination for experienced climbers.
6. Glacier Lagoon (Jökulsárlón) - This is a large, stunning lagoon filled with icebergs. It is located about an hour away from Skaftafell and is a popular tourist attraction.
7. Diamond Beach - This is a beautiful black sand beach located near the Glacier Lagoon. It is named after the thousands of glittering icebergs that wash up on the shore.
Hope this helps!
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Iceland, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Skaftafell.

When to go on holiday to Skaftafell

Skaftafell is a beautiful region in Iceland that boasts of stunning landscapes and incredible natural phenomena. The best time to visit Skaftafell would depend on your interests and the activities you plan to engage in while on holiday.
Generally speaking, the peak tourist season in Skaftafell is in the summer months between June and August, when the weather is relatively mild, and the roads and hiking trails are more accessible. During this period, visitors can take part in a range of activities such as hiking, glacier walking, and sightseeing without having to worry about inclement weather.
On the other hand, winter in Skaftafell, between November and March, offers a completely different experience, as the region transforms into a winter wonderland with vast ice caves and spectacular Northern Lights. However, access to some activities and attractions may be limited during this period due to harsh weather conditions.
Ultimately, the best time to visit Skaftafell will depend on your preferences, budget, and the kind of experience you are looking for.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Skaftafell

To get to Skaftafell in Iceland, you can either rent a car or take a bus from Reykjavik. If you prefer to rent a car, you can pick one up at the Keflavik International Airport, which is about 4 hours away from Skaftafell. From the airport, take Route 41 to Route 1, and follow Route 1 all the way to Skaftafell.
Alternatively, you can take a bus from Reykjavik to Skaftafell. The bus ride takes about 4-5 hours and is operated by several companies such as Reykjavik Excursions or Sterna. You can find schedules and book tickets online or at the Reykjavik bus terminal.
Once you arrive in Skaftafell, you can explore the national park and visit attractions such as Svartifoss waterfall and the glacier lagoon.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Skaftafell, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Skaftafell

Some typical foods of Skaftafell, Iceland, are: 1. Lamb: Icelandic lamb is renowned for its taste and quality, and it's a staple of Icelandic cuisine. The lamb from Skaftafell is no different; it's tender, succulent, and flavorful.
2. Skyr: Skyr is a thick, creamy dairy product that's similar to yogurt. It's high in protein, low in fat, and has a tangy, slightly sour taste. Skyr is a popular breakfast food in Iceland and is often mixed with fruit and granola.
3. Fish: With an abundance of fresh fish available in Iceland, it's no surprise that it features heavily in Icelandic cuisine. You'll find a variety of fish dishes in Skaftafell, including salmon, cod, and haddock. Fish is typically grilled, baked, or fried and served with potatoes, vegetables, and a creamy sauce.
4. Rye bread: Rye bread is a dark, dense bread made from rye flour. It's a traditional Icelandic food and is often served with butter and smoked salmon.
5. Flatbread: Flatbread is a thin, crispy bread that's often served with soup or used as a base for sandwiches. It's made from a mixture of rye and wheat flour and is sometimes flavored with herbs or spices.
6. Berries: Skaftafell is surrounded by wild berry bushes, and during the summer months, you can find an abundance of blueberries, bilberries, and crowberries. These berries are often used to make jams, pies, and other desserts.
You can find general info about typical foods in Iceland here.

Is Skaftafell an expensive destination for tourists?

Yes, Skaftafell National Park in Iceland is known to be a relatively expensive destination for tourists due to a high cost of living in Iceland. Additionally, tourism is the main industry in Iceland, which has driven up prices for many goods and services. Visitors should expect to pay premium prices for things like accommodations, food, and activities in and around Skaftafell. However, there are ways to manage costs, such as booking accommodations and activities well in advance, and seeking out budget options for meals and transportation.

Where to find accomodation in Skaftafell

The closest areas to Skaftafell where you can find accommodation are Hof and Kirkjubæjarklaustur. However, if you don't mind driving a bit further, then the town of Höfn is another popular option for staying near Skaftafell. Additionally, the larger town of Jökulsárlón is also within driving distance and offers more options for accommodation.
You can check hotel prices at Skaftafell here:
Booking.com

Is Skaftafell a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Skaftafell is generally considered a safe place for tourists in Iceland. However, like any destination, it is important to take necessary precautions and follow safe travel practices such as staying on designated trails, being aware of your surroundings, and checking the weather conditions beforehand. It is also important to follow any safety guidelines provided by local authorities or tour guides. In case of any emergency, always carry necessary equipment such as a first aid kit, warm clothing, and communication devices.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Iceland here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Skaftafell.

What type of travelers will enjoy Skaftafell the most?

Skaftafell is a great destination for a wide range of travelers, including couples, young people, and families. This popular national park offers something for everyone, from hiking and exploring glaciers to camping and wildlife watching.
For adventurous and active visitors, there are plenty of hiking trails to choose from, ranging from easy walks to more challenging climbs. Visitors can also take guided glacier tours, ice climbing lessons, or go on a snowmobile or super jeep tour.
Families with children can enjoy the beautiful scenery on a nature walk or picnic in the park, or take part in a family-friendly glacier tour. The park also offers playgrounds and designated picnic areas.
Another draw for visitors is the opportunity to witness the northern lights during the winter months. Skaftafell is one of the best places in the country to view this natural phenomenon.
Overall, Skaftafell is a fantastic destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty and adventure of Iceland's great outdoors.

How to get around Skaftafell

There are a few options for transportation when visiting Skaftafell in Iceland: 1. Car rental: Renting a car provides the most flexibility as you can explore the area at your own pace and easily access nearby attractions.
2. Shuttle bus: The park has a shuttle bus service that runs during the summer months, providing transportation to some of the popular hiking trails and viewpoints in the area.
3. Guided tours: There are a variety of guided tours available that include transportation to Skaftafell and other nearby attractions.
4. Bike rental: Some visitors choose to explore the area by renting a bike, which can be a fun and eco-friendly way to see the park and surrounding landscape.

What to see around Skaftafell

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Skaftafell, Iceland: 1. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon - It is a picturesque glacial lake with icebergs of various sizes floating around with a stunning view of Vatnajökull Glacier.
2. Fjadrárgljúfur Canyon - It is a beautiful narrow canyon with steep cliffs and colorful layers of vegetation surrounding the canyon floor.
3. Svartifoss Waterfall - It's a stunning waterfall with a unique hexagonal basalt column structure. 4. Skaftafellsjökull Glacier - A guided glacier hike can provide an incredible experience to witness the beauty of blue ice caves and crevasses on the glacier.
5. Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach - A beautiful black sand beach with unique rock formations and basalt columns.
6. Stokksnes Peninsula - A well-known photo spot with stunning views of mountains, beach, and black sand dunes.
7. Skeiðará Bridge Monument - The monument showcases the remains of a bridge that was destroyed during a volcanic eruption and glacier flood in 1996.
8. Ingólfshöfði Nature Reserve - A protected nature reserve that is home to various bird species and offers guided tours. I hope this helps you plan your day trip from Skaftafell, Iceland!
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