Skaftafell

South

Skaftafell area has been protected since 1968 when the national park there was officially established, today Skaftafell is part of Vatnajökull National Park, founded in 2008.

In Skaftafell some of the most beautiful natural pearls of Iceland can be found, the landscape is characterized by the everlasting struggle of fire and ice. A large area between the glacier and the sea is a sandy wasteland because of frequent volcanic eruptions in area. These sand are mostly composed of ash and is brought to the coast by “Jökulhlaup” or glacial floods.

Skaftafell usually has more sunny days than other areas in the south of Iceland. The area also offers great variety of outdoor activities for all age, which makes this a paradise for those who like to enjoy the Icelandic nature. There are short and easy hiking trails that lead to the waterfall Svartifoss and Skaftafellsjökull an glacier outlet from Vatnajökull. Svartifoss is a beautiful waterfall framed with dark hexagonal basalt columns. For longer hikes the Mosárdalur valley and Kristínartindar mountains are worth visiting.

The movie Batman Begins from 2005 was filmed in Skaftafell.

Private travel companies operate in Skaftafell ad offer guided hikes on the nearby glaciers and mountains.

Directions

Skaftafell is located about 4 hours drive from Reykjavik. After passing the town Kirkjubæjarklaustur drive for about a hour and then you arrive in Skaftafell area.

Please check weather and road conditions before travelling in the park here and read more about Driving in Iceland.