Skaftafell manor estate was established as a national park in 1967, but in 2008 it became a part of the newly established Vatnajökull National Park. The Skaftafell region of Vatnajökull National Park is a lush oasis where you can hike for days on gorgeous trails through forests, waterfalls, black sands, mountains and glaciers with Iceland’s highest peak, Hvannadalshnjókur, reaching 2,118 metres (6,950 ft), providing a stunning backdrop.
Although flanked by glaciers, Skaftafell is actually among the areas in Iceland that receive the least amount of snow. Precipitation usually comes with southerly wind directions that also bring a relatively warm air from the ocean. So most of the time, the precipitation is rain rather than snow. As a result, most of the hiking trails in the lowland areas of Skaftafell are clear of snow all year round.
Can you go hiking in Skaftafell?
A short walk into the park offers you a breathtaking view of Svartifoss (Black Falls), bordered on both sides by tall black basalt columns resembling the pipes of a giant organ, as well as views of the Skaftafellsjökull glacier. If you want to hike further out, , the Morsardalur valley and Kristinartindar mountain peaks are perfect in terms of distance and labour. Skaftafell is also the perfect base camp for adventuers who seek to climb Iceland‘s highest mountain peak, Hvannadalshnjúkur.
Things to do in Skaftafell
A popular way to spend time in Skaftafell is to join a hiking tour visiting different areas of Vatnajökull glacier. Being able to say that you have walked on or climbed the largest glacier in Europe is certainly a story worth telling.
Ice caves are also a spectacular phenomenon. They are only found in the wintertime, when the glacial rivers retract and the water freezes. Each year, new ice caves form in different locations, providing unique opportunities for ice caving. Several tour operators offer guided visits deep into the park to view ice caves.
A glacier adventure in Skaftafell National Park is something that stays in the memory forever. But do note, that you should only visit a glacier under professional guidance. Weather and other circumstances can cause a great security risk if not handled properly. Iceland’s glacier guides are well trained and are experts at navigating a hike on a glacier safely.
Skaftafell Visitor Centre
Skaftafell Visitor Centre is an information and service centre for southern Vatnajökull National Park. There you can find answers to questions about the Skaftafell area. You can also get the latest information about hiking trails, accommodation and nearby recreational options.
The visitor centre lso has a gift shop with books, postcards, and on local handicrafts.
