Skaftafell

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Skaftafell: Our most recommended tours and activities

Jökulsárlón: Vatnajökull Ice Cave Guided Tour

Jökulsárlón: Vatnajökull Ice Cave Guided Tour

Meet at the Café by Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, about 40 minutes east of Skaftafell, for the start of a unique winter activity and look at an extraordinary natural phenomenon. Go inside some of the ice caves that form after water runs beneath the Vatnajökull Glacier during the summer. Every fall, local guides hunt for new ice caves, as their location can change each year. The structure and condition can also vary from year to year, but rest assured your guide will decide which is the best cave to visit, depending on the safety and weather conditions. Drive for approximately 20 to 30 minutes to the ice cave chosen by your guide, and then walk for 5 to 15 minutes to the mouth of the cave. Upon arrival, enjoy between 1 and 1.5 hours to look inside at the miraculous blue ice of the cave, and take in the natural beauty of the surrounding area.

Reykjavik: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Full-Day Guided Trip

Reykjavik: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Full-Day Guided Trip

Explore the dramatic landscapes of the south of Iceland on a full-day sightseeing tour by bus. Go to the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon outlet of the largest glacier in Europe, leaning about its history and formation from your local guide. Following a pickup from your hotel in Reykjavik, transfer to the southern coast and the dramatic Glacier Lagoon. Enjoy plenty of time to see the floating icebergs and enjoy the stunning scenery. During the season, make sure to reserve your ticket to the boat cruise on the Jökulsárlón and experience the unique Glacier Lagoon spectacle up close. When you prebook, your place is guaranteed. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is Iceland’s largest and deepest glacier lagoon. It branches from Breidamerkurjokull, an outlet glacier of Vatnajokull, Europe’s largest glacier. Return to Reykjavik, stopping at the gorgeous waterfall Seljalandsfoss. You will visit the Diamond beach with black sand, and there will be an additional stop in Iceland's southernmost village at Vík for dinner.

Skaftafell: Ice Cave Tour and Glacier Hike

Skaftafell: Ice Cave Tour and Glacier Hike

Explore breathtaking ice formations and glacier mills on this guided tour in Skaftafell. Marvel at a naturally-formed, blue ice cave and learn how glaciers are formed. A professional hiking guide will take you to the base of Falljökull, an outlet glacier of the Vatnajökull ice cap, and lead you up to the cave. On a clear day, be sure to look out for Hvannadalshnúkur in the distance.

From Reykjavik: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach

From Reykjavik: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach

Embark on a guided tour from Reykjavik to the Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon. Witness the mighty Hvannadalshnjúkur mountain and black sand desert that sprawls between Skaftafell National Park and the lagoon.  Stop at Seljalandsfoss waterfall, where you can walk behind the cascades to reach the other side. Continue to the majestic Skógafoss waterfall and admire the impressive 60-meter drop. Continue to Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon and stroll along the shores of the lake. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of the area as 1,000- to 1,500-year-old ice breaks away from the Vatnajökull glacier and floats silently on the water. Recognize locations from some of the many movies that have been filmed in the area, such as Batman Begins and Tomb Raider. Stop at the spectacular Diamond Beach and admire the strand of black sand speckled with clumps of ice, giving an appearance of shimmering diamonds. In the warmer months, enjoy an added boat ride around the lagoon and witness the floating icebergs up-close.

From Jökulsárlón: Vatnajökull Glacier Blue Ice Cave Tour

From Jökulsárlón: Vatnajökull Glacier Blue Ice Cave Tour

THE TOUR Your journey starts by meeting your guide and boarding one of Iceland’s largest custom-made super jeeps! We’ll depart from Glacier Lagoon and drive approximately 30 minutes toward Breiðamerkurjökull, a glacial tongue extending from Vatnajökull. Along the way, your guide will share fascinating insights about the formation of ice caves, glaciers, volcanoes, and local culture. The caves we visit are 100% natural, constantly forming and changing with the seasons and weather conditions. As such, the cave we explore will depend on the conditions on the day of your tour. We may find ourselves at the edge of the glacier, or we might need to hike a short distance (500-700m) on the glacier to reach the cave. The walking distance on the tour therefore varies between 3-4 km so all participants should be in good health and comfortable with walking. The tour will be a minimum of 3 hours and a maximum of 4, depending on which cave we will be able to visit. Before entering the cave, your guide will provide a safety briefing and equip you with helmets and crampons/micro spikes if needed. Each tour is unique due to the ever-changing nature of the glaciers and caves. You’ll witness a variety of stunning ice formations and colors, from brilliant blue to emerald green and even striking black ice. Our guests often tell us that the diverse ice formations and colors are the most unforgettable part of their experience. WHICH ICE CAVE DO WE VISIT? We always aim to take you to the most beautiful and awe-inspiring ice caves available during the season. Since the caves constantly evolve, old ones disappear, and new ones form, each tour is a unique adventure. Rest assured, we will guide you to the best ice cave accessible at the time of your visit.

Skaftafell National Park: Falljokull Glacier Easy Hike

Skaftafell National Park: Falljokull Glacier Easy Hike

Discover what it feels like to walk on impacted ice on an amazing hike across the outlet glacier of Vatnajökull, Europe's largest glacier. Get breathtaking views of the ice-covered peaks of Skaftafell National Park in the epic wilderness of Iceland. Meet your guide at the meeting point to pick up your crampons, ice axes, harnesses, and helmets. Then, drive by bus to the start of your hike and put on your crampons and steel frames tied to your hiking boots for the amazing adventure ahead. Spend around 60 to 90 minutes on the ice to see crevasses and deep cracks on the surface. Learn about the vertical shafts known as moulins, formed when melting water finds its way into the fissures and cracks. Look into small ice tunnels and capture the beautiful blue heart of the ice in the winter. Learn the history of the glacier from your English-speaking guide.

From Jökulsárlón: Crystal Ice Cave Day Tour on Vatnajökull

From Jökulsárlón: Crystal Ice Cave Day Tour on Vatnajökull

Experience the majestic beauty of a natural ice cave on a tour of Vatnajökull Glacier. Meet your certified glacier guide at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, and then take a 20-30 minute scenic drive to the ice cave.  Get ready to see a magical world of blue ice as you enter the ice cave. Your guide will ensure that you are safe and secure once inside the cave. Gear up with all necessary glacier gear, provided for your safety. Cast your eyes on the heavenly shades of blue ice once you are inside the cave. Take stunning photos of the ice as you spend approximately 40 minutes exploring this miracle of Mother Nature. Discover all that the ice cave has to offer before heading back to Jökulsarlón Glacier Lagoon.

Skaftafell: Guided Ice Cave Trip to Vatnajökull Glacier

Skaftafell: Guided Ice Cave Trip to Vatnajökull Glacier

Seize the opportunity to experience one of the stunning blue ice caves within Vatnajökull Glacier, the largest glacier in Europe. This tour is rated as easy, as our modified 4x4 allow participants to get very close to the glacier without exerting much effort. From the meeting location to the current ice cave tunnel we visiting there is a 20 min walk. Embrace the magic of Iceland’s ever-changing glaciers! Each winter unveils new natural wonders, and we’re excited to share this year’s adventure with you. This Season’s Unique Experience: Be among the first to step into a pristine, newly discovered 20-meter long ice cave Marvel at the vibrant blue hues hidden within the glacier Enjoy the thrill of revelation as the ice cave suddenly appears amidst the moraine What Makes This Year Special: Each season brings a unique ice formation. While smaller than in previous years, the ice cave’s location and stunning blue ice create an unforgettable, almost magical reveal. 2 for 1 adventure: Now including a glacier walk The enhanced glacier walk adds an extra layer of adventure, allowing you to truly immerse yourself in the breathtaking glacial landscape before discovering the ice cave. Past Season’s Highlights Previous years have featured sites like the Blue Diamond ice cave, Sapphire ice cave, and Crystal ice caves which no longer exist. While specific caves change annually due to natural processes, the awe-inspiring beauty remains constant. The tour begins from Freysnes in Southeast Iceland. Meet your professional glacier guide and climb on board a 4x4 Superjeep to begin the rugged journey towards the glacier. Getting There – An Adventure in Itself Your journey begins with a thrilling ride in our modified 4×4, navigating rugged terrain that few vehicles can handle. As we travel, you’ll witness breathtaking scenery shaped by glaciers over millennia. Our expert guides lead this expedition, ensuring not only your safety but also providing informative insights throughout the journey. The Glacier Walk – A New Dimension This season introduces a 2.5-3 km walk, with around half that on the glacier and a 50m-100m elevation gain. In total, we’ll spend around 1-1.5 hours outside. This easy trek, suitable for most fitness levels, adds an exciting dimension to your journey. Inside the Ice Cave Explore unique ice formations and mesmerizing light effects in the cave. Please note that while each group’s experience is unique, you will likely encounter other groups during your time in the cave. Remember, the dynamic nature of ice caves means they transform throughout winter, ensuring a unique experience with each visit. For recent photos and updates, follow @localguide on Instagram.

Skaftafell National Park: Falljokull Glacier Advanced Hike

Skaftafell National Park: Falljokull Glacier Advanced Hike

Enjoy a frozen adventure in the wilderness of Skaftafell and hike across a stunning outlet glacier of Vatnajökull in the company of an expert guide. Get a short safety briefing and collect all the necessary equipment at the meeting point. Then, marvel at the majesty of the landscape on the short hike to the ice cap. Put on your crampons for security out on the ice. See different formations, including deep crevasses and ice sculptures, and get panoramic views over Skaftafell National Park. Learn how glaciers are formed and hear how their future is under threat as a result of global warming. Get an introduction to more advanced stages of glacier hiking before heading back to the meeting point.

Reykjavik: South Coast, Diamond Beach, and Jökulsárlón Tour

Reykjavik: South Coast, Diamond Beach, and Jökulsárlón Tour

Follow the south coast of Iceland to the glacial lagoon, Jökulsárlón, on a full-day tour from Reykjavik. Visit the Seljalandsfoss waterfall and learn about the incredible landscapes from your guide. Stay connected with free WIFI aboard the climate-controlled bus. Depart from Reykjavik in an air-conditioned bus and pass charming villages as well as Skaftafell National Park on your way to the Seljalandsfoss and Skógarfoss waterfalls. Look out for Iceland’s biggest volcano, Öræfajökull glacier. After arriving at the lagoon, enjoy some time to view this stunning area. Take a walk along the shore and admire the icebergs. During the summer season, amphibian boat tours on the lagoon are available at an extra cost (payable onsite). Jökulsárlón started to form in the early nineteen twenties and is getting bigger every year. See blocks of ice that have broken off Europe’s biggest glacier, Vatnajökull, as they sail slowly towards the ocean. The tour returns to Reykjavik in the evening.

Skaftafell: Our most recommended tours and activities

Jökulsárlón: Vatnajökull Ice Cave Guided Tour

Jökulsárlón: Vatnajökull Ice Cave Guided Tour

Meet at the Café by Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, about 40 minutes east of Skaftafell, for the start of a unique winter activity and look at an extraordinary natural phenomenon. Go inside some of the ice caves that form after water runs beneath the Vatnajökull Glacier during the summer. Every fall, local guides hunt for new ice caves, as their location can change each year. The structure and condition can also vary from year to year, but rest assured your guide will decide which is the best cave to visit, depending on the safety and weather conditions. Drive for approximately 20 to 30 minutes to the ice cave chosen by your guide, and then walk for 5 to 15 minutes to the mouth of the cave. Upon arrival, enjoy between 1 and 1.5 hours to look inside at the miraculous blue ice of the cave, and take in the natural beauty of the surrounding area.

Reykjavik: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Full-Day Guided Trip

Reykjavik: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Full-Day Guided Trip

Explore the dramatic landscapes of the south of Iceland on a full-day sightseeing tour by bus. Go to the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon outlet of the largest glacier in Europe, leaning about its history and formation from your local guide. Following a pickup from your hotel in Reykjavik, transfer to the southern coast and the dramatic Glacier Lagoon. Enjoy plenty of time to see the floating icebergs and enjoy the stunning scenery. During the season, make sure to reserve your ticket to the boat cruise on the Jökulsárlón and experience the unique Glacier Lagoon spectacle up close. When you prebook, your place is guaranteed. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is Iceland’s largest and deepest glacier lagoon. It branches from Breidamerkurjokull, an outlet glacier of Vatnajokull, Europe’s largest glacier. Return to Reykjavik, stopping at the gorgeous waterfall Seljalandsfoss. You will visit the Diamond beach with black sand, and there will be an additional stop in Iceland's southernmost village at Vík for dinner.

Skaftafell: Ice Cave Tour and Glacier Hike

Skaftafell: Ice Cave Tour and Glacier Hike

Explore breathtaking ice formations and glacier mills on this guided tour in Skaftafell. Marvel at a naturally-formed, blue ice cave and learn how glaciers are formed. A professional hiking guide will take you to the base of Falljökull, an outlet glacier of the Vatnajökull ice cap, and lead you up to the cave. On a clear day, be sure to look out for Hvannadalshnúkur in the distance.

From Reykjavik: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach

From Reykjavik: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach

Embark on a guided tour from Reykjavik to the Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon. Witness the mighty Hvannadalshnjúkur mountain and black sand desert that sprawls between Skaftafell National Park and the lagoon.  Stop at Seljalandsfoss waterfall, where you can walk behind the cascades to reach the other side. Continue to the majestic Skógafoss waterfall and admire the impressive 60-meter drop. Continue to Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon and stroll along the shores of the lake. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of the area as 1,000- to 1,500-year-old ice breaks away from the Vatnajökull glacier and floats silently on the water. Recognize locations from some of the many movies that have been filmed in the area, such as Batman Begins and Tomb Raider. Stop at the spectacular Diamond Beach and admire the strand of black sand speckled with clumps of ice, giving an appearance of shimmering diamonds. In the warmer months, enjoy an added boat ride around the lagoon and witness the floating icebergs up-close.

From Jökulsárlón: Vatnajökull Glacier Blue Ice Cave Tour

From Jökulsárlón: Vatnajökull Glacier Blue Ice Cave Tour

THE TOUR Your journey starts by meeting your guide and boarding one of Iceland’s largest custom-made super jeeps! We’ll depart from Glacier Lagoon and drive approximately 30 minutes toward Breiðamerkurjökull, a glacial tongue extending from Vatnajökull. Along the way, your guide will share fascinating insights about the formation of ice caves, glaciers, volcanoes, and local culture. The caves we visit are 100% natural, constantly forming and changing with the seasons and weather conditions. As such, the cave we explore will depend on the conditions on the day of your tour. We may find ourselves at the edge of the glacier, or we might need to hike a short distance (500-700m) on the glacier to reach the cave. The walking distance on the tour therefore varies between 3-4 km so all participants should be in good health and comfortable with walking. The tour will be a minimum of 3 hours and a maximum of 4, depending on which cave we will be able to visit. Before entering the cave, your guide will provide a safety briefing and equip you with helmets and crampons/micro spikes if needed. Each tour is unique due to the ever-changing nature of the glaciers and caves. You’ll witness a variety of stunning ice formations and colors, from brilliant blue to emerald green and even striking black ice. Our guests often tell us that the diverse ice formations and colors are the most unforgettable part of their experience. WHICH ICE CAVE DO WE VISIT? We always aim to take you to the most beautiful and awe-inspiring ice caves available during the season. Since the caves constantly evolve, old ones disappear, and new ones form, each tour is a unique adventure. Rest assured, we will guide you to the best ice cave accessible at the time of your visit.

Skaftafell National Park: Falljokull Glacier Easy Hike

Skaftafell National Park: Falljokull Glacier Easy Hike

Discover what it feels like to walk on impacted ice on an amazing hike across the outlet glacier of Vatnajökull, Europe's largest glacier. Get breathtaking views of the ice-covered peaks of Skaftafell National Park in the epic wilderness of Iceland. Meet your guide at the meeting point to pick up your crampons, ice axes, harnesses, and helmets. Then, drive by bus to the start of your hike and put on your crampons and steel frames tied to your hiking boots for the amazing adventure ahead. Spend around 60 to 90 minutes on the ice to see crevasses and deep cracks on the surface. Learn about the vertical shafts known as moulins, formed when melting water finds its way into the fissures and cracks. Look into small ice tunnels and capture the beautiful blue heart of the ice in the winter. Learn the history of the glacier from your English-speaking guide.

From Jökulsárlón: Crystal Ice Cave Day Tour on Vatnajökull

From Jökulsárlón: Crystal Ice Cave Day Tour on Vatnajökull

Experience the majestic beauty of a natural ice cave on a tour of Vatnajökull Glacier. Meet your certified glacier guide at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, and then take a 20-30 minute scenic drive to the ice cave.  Get ready to see a magical world of blue ice as you enter the ice cave. Your guide will ensure that you are safe and secure once inside the cave. Gear up with all necessary glacier gear, provided for your safety. Cast your eyes on the heavenly shades of blue ice once you are inside the cave. Take stunning photos of the ice as you spend approximately 40 minutes exploring this miracle of Mother Nature. Discover all that the ice cave has to offer before heading back to Jökulsarlón Glacier Lagoon.

Skaftafell: Guided Ice Cave Trip to Vatnajökull Glacier

Skaftafell: Guided Ice Cave Trip to Vatnajökull Glacier

Seize the opportunity to experience one of the stunning blue ice caves within Vatnajökull Glacier, the largest glacier in Europe. This tour is rated as easy, as our modified 4x4 allow participants to get very close to the glacier without exerting much effort. From the meeting location to the current ice cave tunnel we visiting there is a 20 min walk. Embrace the magic of Iceland’s ever-changing glaciers! Each winter unveils new natural wonders, and we’re excited to share this year’s adventure with you. This Season’s Unique Experience: Be among the first to step into a pristine, newly discovered 20-meter long ice cave Marvel at the vibrant blue hues hidden within the glacier Enjoy the thrill of revelation as the ice cave suddenly appears amidst the moraine What Makes This Year Special: Each season brings a unique ice formation. While smaller than in previous years, the ice cave’s location and stunning blue ice create an unforgettable, almost magical reveal. 2 for 1 adventure: Now including a glacier walk The enhanced glacier walk adds an extra layer of adventure, allowing you to truly immerse yourself in the breathtaking glacial landscape before discovering the ice cave. Past Season’s Highlights Previous years have featured sites like the Blue Diamond ice cave, Sapphire ice cave, and Crystal ice caves which no longer exist. While specific caves change annually due to natural processes, the awe-inspiring beauty remains constant. The tour begins from Freysnes in Southeast Iceland. Meet your professional glacier guide and climb on board a 4x4 Superjeep to begin the rugged journey towards the glacier. Getting There – An Adventure in Itself Your journey begins with a thrilling ride in our modified 4×4, navigating rugged terrain that few vehicles can handle. As we travel, you’ll witness breathtaking scenery shaped by glaciers over millennia. Our expert guides lead this expedition, ensuring not only your safety but also providing informative insights throughout the journey. The Glacier Walk – A New Dimension This season introduces a 2.5-3 km walk, with around half that on the glacier and a 50m-100m elevation gain. In total, we’ll spend around 1-1.5 hours outside. This easy trek, suitable for most fitness levels, adds an exciting dimension to your journey. Inside the Ice Cave Explore unique ice formations and mesmerizing light effects in the cave. Please note that while each group’s experience is unique, you will likely encounter other groups during your time in the cave. Remember, the dynamic nature of ice caves means they transform throughout winter, ensuring a unique experience with each visit. For recent photos and updates, follow @localguide on Instagram.

Skaftafell National Park: Falljokull Glacier Advanced Hike

Skaftafell National Park: Falljokull Glacier Advanced Hike

Enjoy a frozen adventure in the wilderness of Skaftafell and hike across a stunning outlet glacier of Vatnajökull in the company of an expert guide. Get a short safety briefing and collect all the necessary equipment at the meeting point. Then, marvel at the majesty of the landscape on the short hike to the ice cap. Put on your crampons for security out on the ice. See different formations, including deep crevasses and ice sculptures, and get panoramic views over Skaftafell National Park. Learn how glaciers are formed and hear how their future is under threat as a result of global warming. Get an introduction to more advanced stages of glacier hiking before heading back to the meeting point.

Reykjavik: South Coast, Diamond Beach, and Jökulsárlón Tour

Reykjavik: South Coast, Diamond Beach, and Jökulsárlón Tour

Follow the south coast of Iceland to the glacial lagoon, Jökulsárlón, on a full-day tour from Reykjavik. Visit the Seljalandsfoss waterfall and learn about the incredible landscapes from your guide. Stay connected with free WIFI aboard the climate-controlled bus. Depart from Reykjavik in an air-conditioned bus and pass charming villages as well as Skaftafell National Park on your way to the Seljalandsfoss and Skógarfoss waterfalls. Look out for Iceland’s biggest volcano, Öræfajökull glacier. After arriving at the lagoon, enjoy some time to view this stunning area. Take a walk along the shore and admire the icebergs. During the summer season, amphibian boat tours on the lagoon are available at an extra cost (payable onsite). Jökulsárlón started to form in the early nineteen twenties and is getting bigger every year. See blocks of ice that have broken off Europe’s biggest glacier, Vatnajökull, as they sail slowly towards the ocean. The tour returns to Reykjavik in the evening.

Top Attractions in Vatnajökull National Park

Experiences in Skaftafell

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What people are saying about Skaftafell

Overall rating

4.7
(5,370 reviews)

The cave was more of a tunnel of about 10 meters. I was expecting something bigger. In any case, the experience was highly recommended. Our guide Camino was very good, gave us very good instructions and took us along impressive paths. Always with great safety.

lots of people on site and waiting because many tourists have to retake ideal photos for Instagram which is unbearable, nevertheless our guide was great, the places are incredible, it's really worth seeing

Annie was nice and patient. She did a great job at keeping us safe and teaching about the glacier. It was so worth the experience! 🩷 Highly recommended.

Everything was great! The tour guide was very kind and gave told us some cool glacier facts throughout the hike. The gear was in good conditions as well.

The guide was very helpful in getting us some amazing photos which we appreciated! the cave was so blue and beautiful!