Skaftafell

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In this page, you will find informations and advices we can give, based on our experience

Skaftafell National Park

What to do if you have little time : Svartifoss et Skaftafellsjokull

Skaftafell is beautiful national park at the foot of the largest glacier in Iceland and Europe, the Vatnajokul. When we went in June 2011, it was shortly after the Eyjafjallajokull volcano erupted. That is why, in our photos, the glaciers are covered with a layer of black ash.

We recommend you to spend 1 to 2 days.

Access : from Highway 1, turn north, towards the Skaftafell and information center. Parking Information Centre is the starting point for both walks below.

Djofafoss, Hundafoss, Svartifoss and Sjonarsker

Length and duration of the hike 1,7 miles one way

2 to 3 hours

Free

These places are part of a single trek 3,4 miles round trip. Pretty cool hike whose main attraction is Svartifoss. Indeed Djofafoss and Hundafoss are two very traditional waterfalls . Svartifoss, however, is much prettier with its basalt columns. Before reaching it, it can be seen from a distance and slightly elevated, which will make you want to go down. On the way back, a detour is possible to Sjonarsker viewpoint. We recommend it because it gives an impressive view of the surrounding mountains and the glacier.

Skaftafellsjokull

Length and duration of the hike 1,1 mile

1 hour

Free

Short hike easy of 2,2 miles round trip, accessible to all. It leads to the foot of the glacier.

Svinafellsjokull

Length and duration of the hike 0,1 mile one way

30 minutes

Free

Crater filled with a green color water due to the presence of algae. Stop here if you're in the area, but it's not worth a detour.

Access : from Krisuvik (see access above), continue on road 42 southward for 0,8 mile to the lake.

To see around

Lodging

We have tested :

Skaftafell - Guesthouse Bolti : located inside the national park, this guesthouse is really worth the detour. Wonderful views of the southern region of Skaftafell. Choice of rooms is in the house of the owner or in separated bungalows. Very small kitchen in a shed in the garden, tables outside. We had booked a room in the house overloaded with various decoration. Very kitsch. The owner, shy at first, soon becomes talkative when it is launched on his family (his pride). Very nice.