Top Things to do in Vatnajokull National Park
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6 Budget-friendly Things to do in Vatnajokull National Park That You Shouldn't Miss
The largest national park in Europe, Vatnajokull combines thick blue ice caves, black sand beaches, waterfalls, and even lush green fields to create an otherworldly landscape that begs to be explored. Ásbyrgi, a canyon known for its distinct horseshoe shape, is a must for those hoping to discover local woodland. Whether climbing Iceland’s highest peak, Hvannadalshnúkur, or hiking to the Detifoss waterfall, the country’s scenic terrain and breathtaking geological formations can’t be missed.
1. Skaftafell National Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,128 reviews
Reviewed By Tissa010 - Rotterdam, The Netherlands
Beautiful area to do some hiking and see the big glaciers of Vatnajökull. You can choose your own route and difficulty, but if you're able you should definitely go up route 55 or 56 to the edge of the glacier.
2. Lac Polaire
3. Svartifoss Waterfall
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 742 reviews
Reviewed By _eli_9009 - Düsseldorf, Germany
We parked at the other parking, not the main one, and walked the small trail (marked as red - difficult) up the hill. It is not really difficult, only compared to the other way from the main parking marked as blue, it is more wild (& more fun) :) In total it took us 2h walking up, staying and the waterfall taking fotos and coming back down. Be careful as some part of the trail might be covered by ice in winter (very slippery).
4. Svinafell Glacier
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 107 reviews
Reviewed By Travel_Addict_Cyprus - Michigan, United States
Svínafellsjökull is one of many outlet glaciers (glacier tongues) of Vatnajökull, and part of the Skaftafell Nature Reserve. A great place to get very close to a glacier tongue. After visiting Skaftafellsjökull we drove here. Drove up the short gravel road and walked to the Svinafellsjökull glacier. We kept hiking to the left, over the rocky trail, for amazing views of the glacier. Then walked on the "mound" to the right, in the amazing field of lupines. Great photo ops. I personally loved Svinafellsjökull and it was really amazing to see the glacier from such proximity (unlike Skaftafellsjökull). We stayed here for a couple of hours, just sitting around and enjoying the views. From here we drove to Fjallsárlón, and then to Jökulsárlón and Diamond Beach, before we headed back to Reykjavik. What a great day exploring Vatnajokull National Park and its amazing sights!
5. Flaajokull Glacier
6. Skaftafellsjokull
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 63 reviews
Reviewed By LouRod17 - Philadelphia, United States
The glacier is a nice hike away from the visitor center, I’m guessing a bit over a mile each way. The hike is worth doing as you get to enjoy the scenic views surrounding you. Once there, you can walk around the large open area. There looks to be the beginnings of a lagoon with a small stream of glacier water pouring into it. You can get close to the glacier and some folks were climbing up the sides of the glacier. Fantastic experience. There is parking and a cafeteria at the visitor center.
