Skaftafell National Park

Skaftafell Tours

Skaftafell National Park is situated between Kirkjubaejarklaustur, typically referred to as Klaustur, and Hofn in the south of Iceland. On 7 June 2008, it became a part of the larger Vatnajokull National Park.

It was founded on September 15, 1967, and enlarged twice afterwards. Today, the park measures about 4807 km2, making it Iceland's second largest national park. It is home to the valley Morsardalur, the mountain Kristinartindar and the glacier Skaftafellsjokull (a spur of the Vatnajökull ice cap).

The landscape is very similar to some of the Alps, but it has been formed in thousands of years by different influences of fire (volcanic eruptions of Oraefajokull) and water (the glaciers Skeidarajokull and Skaftafellsjokull), the rivers Skeidara, Morsa and Skaftafellsa. Volcanic eruptions under the ice-cap can give rise to glacial floods which swell the Skeidara river massively. The sandy wasteland between the glacier and the sea caused by glacial floods is called the Sandur. The last glacial flood occurred in 1996.

Skaftafell is renowned in Iceland for its agreeable climate and the sunny days in summer, uncommon in the south of Iceland. There is a natural birch wood, Baejarstadarskogur, as well as many species of birds and arctic foxes.

The waterfall Svartifoss (Black Fall) flows over a step of about 12 metres. Its name comes from the black basalt columns behind it.

In the Middle Ages there were some large farms in this area, but they were abandoned after two volcanic eruptions and the ensuing glacier runs. The two surviving farms now mostly make a living from tourism. The park has also an information centre and a campground. There are many hiking trails crossing the area.

We have jeeps and busses of all sizes that can take your group to Skaftafell

Contact us at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it to set up a Skaftafell tour for you and your group.

Here below we offer other possibilities to experience Skaftafell

Glacier Hikes

Glacier Grand Slam - Glacier Hiking and Sightseeing

Glacier Hiking from Skaftafell and Glacier Lagoon Boat ride

The Glacier Grand Slam is our most popular trip and for a good reason, you will visit the most breathtaking and inspiring nature that Vatnajokull National Park has to offer. Wander along the Fjallsarlon glacier lagoon and then on to the glacier tongue itself.

Blue Ice & Black Sands - Glacier Hiking Day Trip

Glacier Hiking on Virkisjökull, from Skaftafell National Park

Our adventure begins with an introduction to the enchanting world of Icelandic glaciers, traversing a spectacular but easy track on Virkisjokull glacier. Walking on the glacier ice with crampons, we will see unique ice formations and deep crevasse.

Glacier Wonders - Glacier Hiking Day Trip

Glacier Hike departing from Skaftafell National Park

For those looking for a quick but stunning adventure, this popular trip is a great eco-adventure full of variety and interest. Our buses leave from Skaftafell national park several times a day for the scenic 15 minute drive to Virkisjokull glacier.

Glacier Explorer - Glacier Hiking Day Trip

Glacier Hiking only a short distance from Jokulsarlon

After a walk along the magnificent shores of this seldom visited lagoon, we will arrive at the Fjallsjokull glacier where we gear up on crampons. With your guide leading the way you will soon be exploring the dramatic terrain.

Climb the Peaks in Skaftafell

White Giant, Hvannadalshnjukur Hike

A mountain hike to Icelands highest peak from Skaftafell

To stand on Iceland’s highest peak and cast your eyes over the land is an unforgettable experience that no adventurer should let pass before him. The route to the top starts with a drive in towards Europe’s biggest glacier, the Vatnajokull glacier from Skaftafell.

Alpine Iceland - Mountain Trip From Skaftafell

Climb the Hrutfjallstindar alpine peaks on the Vatnajokull Glacier

Along the way and from the top the view is magnificent, on bluebird days it is certainly one of the great mountain views the world has to offer. Below the lush Skaftafell oasis and enormous outlet glaciers stretched out towards the black sand beaches.

Ice Climbing

Ice Climbing Tour

Ice climbing in Skaftafell

Ice climbing on the outlet glaciers of Vatnajökull is truly an amazing experience. Not only will you be climbing in an extraordinary landscape, you will also be conquering gravity. Our step by step approach ensures professional instruction in the form and technical aspects of ice climbing.