Skaftafell

Incredibly beautiful! Nice and short walk from the parking lot. There are places to sit down and enjoy the waterfall

Part of Vatnajökull National Park, is one of Iceland’s most remarkable regions, blending glaciers, waterfalls, and lush valleys into a landscape that feels like a microcosm of the entire country. Once its own national park, Skaftafell became part of Vatnajökull National Park and remains a paradise for hikers, nature lovers, and photographers. The scenery shifts dramatically within short distances — from icy glacier tongues and rugged mountain ridges to fertile green meadows and black volcanic sands. The area offers some of Iceland’s best hiking trails, with routes suitable for all levels. The short but rewarding hike to Svartifoss, the famous “Black Waterfall,” is a favorite, while more challenging trails lead to glacier viewpoints and panoramic ridges overlooking Skaftafellsjökull and Morsárjökull. For those seeking adventure, guided glacier walks and ice-climbing tours are available, offering a safe way to explore the region’s frozen wonders up close. The Skaftafell Visitor Center is well-equipped and serves as the hub for most activities. It provides maps, trail information, guided tour options, and a small café — a welcome stop after a day of hiking. Parking is ample, though the area can get busy during summer months, so early arrivals are recommended. The weather here is famously unpredictable, often shifting from sunshine to rain or wind within minutes, so layered and waterproof clothing is a must. What makes Skaftafell stand out is its sense of balance — wild and untouched yet accessible and well-organized. You can spend just a few hours exploring or dedicate several days hiking deeper into the mountains and glaciers. It’s also a great base for visiting nearby attractions like Svartifoss, Skaftafellsjökull, and the glacial lagoons further east. Overall, Skaftafell is a destination that captures the essence of Iceland: raw, diverse, and awe-inspiring. Whether you’re a casual visitor or a serious hiker, it offers a rare combination of natural beauty, tranquility, and adventure that leaves a lasting impression.

This is a very nice Nationalpark with several waterfalls and a decent walk uphill. It takes around 30-45min to go to the main waterfall. There are also several routes to go up and back to the parking. I would definitely recommend you to go to the Nationalpark if you are in the area. There is also a information center and you can also walk to the glacier nearby directly from there. Enjoy it :)

Very nice walk, easy for kids and elderly people, fresh air and beautiful scenery.

Amazing please to visit , defenetly. It is a walk for almost 40 min and after you can go to glacier side lake.

30 minutes walk uphill are needed to see this waterfall. Easily reachable by walk through a path clearly visible. The waterfall is very nice and surrounded by basalt columns.

Short and easy hike to Svartifoss waterfall and easy walk to the glacier. Both trips took around 30 mins for us, without the stops and picture taking etc.

Just go. Walk the trails. Take a hike before the sun comes up. Sit by a mountain stream babbling and talk to God. He'll listen. Stayed the night in the camp grounds. AMAZING facilities. Shower, laundry and bathrooms ALL Great! AND XTRA CLEAN. thank you to whomever keeps the place so well maintained.