07-02-2024
Glaciers, canyons, gorges, rivers, waterfalls and volcanic mountains make up the incredible landscape of Skaftafell Nature Reserve. Located within Vatnajokull National Park in South Iceland, this Icelandic wilderness area is one of the most popular locations in the country for hikers and outdoor lovers.
Let’s learn more about this beautiful nature reserve, including how to get to Skaftafell and what to see while you’re there.
An incredible natural area of outstanding beauty, the iconic Skaftafell Nature Reserve is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site area, home to majestic mountains, expansive glaciers and cascading waterfalls.
Historically a traditional farming settlement, Skaftafell gradually transformed into the epic landscape we can see today through a series of volcanic eruptions that occurred over thousands of years. The flow of glacial rivers and flash floods also carved out the canyons and gorges across Skaftafell.
Designated ‘national park’ status in 1967, Skaftafell Nature Reserve became part of the wider Vatnajokull National Park in 2008, which is the largest national park in Iceland, covering the whole of Europe’s largest glacier: Vatnajokull Glacier.
Maybe you’ve heard of ‘Skaftafell National Park’ when researching where to visit in Iceland. Well, although Skaftafell was originally established as a national park, it’s now officially known as a nature reserve, which sits within Vatnajokull National Park.
Skaftafell Nature Reserve can be found in South Iceland, around 330 kilometers from the Icelandic capital city of Reykjavík. This stunning natural area is located in the southernmost region of Vatnajokull National Park, sitting just south of the expansive Vatnajokull Glacier.
The easiest way to get to Skaftafell Nature Reserve is by taking the 4.5-hour drive from Reykajvik along the main Ring Road in Iceland (Route 1). Skaftafell is conveniently located just off Route 1, so the drive is pretty easy and straightforward.
While in Skaftafell Nature Reserve, you’ll be spoilt for choice as to what to do and where to visit. Everywhere you look, there are some incredible natural wonders to discover. Here are some of our top recommendations for things to do and unmissable sights to see during your visit to Skaftafell:
The first stop we recommend making when arriving at Skaftafell Nature Reserve is the Skaftafell Visitor Center. Here, you can learn all about the history and geology of Skaftafell, ask any questions you may have and discover the top hiking trails and recreational activities you can enjoy in the area.
Skaftafell is an amazing hiking location in Iceland, offering incredible trails through untouched natural landscapes. With a range of trails for all abilities, hiking in Skaftafell is a wonderful way to discover the spectacular scenery of this nature reserve for yourself. Some of the most famous hiking trails in Skaftafell Nature Reserve are:
Svartifoss Trail (1.5 kilometers)
Skaftafellsjokull Trail (3.7 kilometers)
Sjonarnípa Trail (6.4 kilometers)
Kristinartindar Mountain Trail (17.9 kilometers)
Morsardalur Valley Trail (20.9 kilometers)
Skaftafell is home to some of Iceland’s most beautiful waterfalls, including Svartifoss, the ‘Black Waterfall’, so-named due to the striking black basalt rock lining the falls. The hexagonal dark lava columns have actually inspired some of Iceland’s most famous architecture, including Hallgrimskirkja church in Reykjavik. You’ll also find the cascading waters of Hundafoss Waterfall close by to Svartifoss.
Another unmissable experience while in Skaftafell is exploring the incredible ice caves. Taking a Skaftafell Blue Ice Cave tour will give you a unique opportunity to soak in the vivid blues and magical structures of the most famous ice cave in this nature reserve. The ice caves are constantly shifting shape and form, meaning each visit to these natural wonders will be unique!
Touring the Skaftafell glaciers is a must while visiting this epic nature reserve. With several glaciers, including Skaftafellsjokull and Svinafellsjokull, as well as the mighty Vatnajokull, you’ll have a whole range of Skaftafell glaciers to choose from. We highly recommend taking a Guided Skaftafell Glacier Hike, where all the necessary equipment is provided for you.
Each season offers something different when you visit Skaftafell, from a chance to explore this gorgeous nature reserve under the Northern Lights during winter, to the opportunity to hike under the Midnight Sun during summer.
While a visit to Skaftafell is just as incredible, no matter which season you choose to visit, we recommend visiting in summer to enjoy the warmer and milder weather. In summer, you’ll also have many more daylight hours in which to explore Skaftafell, allowing you to visit all the attractions you choose.
Although Skaftafell Nature Reserve is located within one of the most popular regions of Iceland for tourists, there aren’t many hotels within the locale of the nature reserve itself. For this reason, the few hotels nearby tend to book up quickly, so we recommend securing your accommodation well in advance if you want to be within or very near to Skaftafell.
Not to worry, though – there are also many accommodation options close to Skaftafell along Iceland’s South Coast. If you’re looking to stay overnight in or near Skaftafell Nature Reserve, here are a few excellent hotel options you can choose from:
Camping is another good option for the summer season. Please note camping isn’t recommended between September and May due to harsh weather conditions. Skaftafell campground is located within Skaftafell Nature Reserve, which has room for around 400 tents.
Inspired to explore Iceland’s incredible landscapes and breathtaking natural wonders for yourself? You can do just that by renting a car in Iceland and taking to the road, ready for the adventure of a lifetime!