Day Trips Vatnaj Kull National Park

Day Trips in Vatnajökull National Park: A Guide

Vatnajökull National Park, located in southeastern Iceland, is the largest national park in Europe and home to one of the world’s most extensive glaciers, Vatnajökull. This incredible landscape offers a variety of day trip options for travelers seeking adventure and natural beauty.

  1. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

    • Distance from Skaftafell Visitor Centre: Approximately 32 km (20 miles)
    • Highlights: Glistening icebergs floating in a glacial lagoon, seals basking on ice floes, and the Diamond Beach where washed-up ice bergs create a stunning contrast against black sand.
    • Tips: Visit during sunrise or sunset for breathtaking photos. Don’t forget to check out the nearby Glacier Museum for insight into the formation of glaciers.

  2. Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon

    • Distance from Skaftafell Visitor Centre: Approximately 110 km (68 miles)
    • Highlights: A deep canyon with dramatic rock formations and a picturesque river running through it. The best-known viewpoint offers panoramic vistas of the entire canyon.
    • Tips: Access the canyon via road F264, which is passable in two-wheel drive vehicles during summer months. Be aware that windy conditions can make walking along the rim challenging.

  3. Skaftafell

    • Highlights: A picturesque area within Vatnajökull National Park offering hiking trails of varying difficulty levels, including glacier walks and trips to stunning waterfalls such as Svartifoss.
    • Tips: Check the weather forecast before setting out on a hike, and always bring appropriate clothing and gear. Guided tours are highly recommended for safety reasons.

  4. Seljalandsfoss and Gljúfrabúi Waterfalls

    • Distance from Reykjavik: Approximately 120 km (75 miles)
    • Highlights: Seljalandsfoss, a beautiful 60-meter (197 ft.) tall waterfall that can be walked behind, and the lesser-known Gljúfrabúi hidden within a cave.
    • Tips: Wear waterproof clothing to stay dry while exploring the waterfalls. Keep an eye out for rainbows created by misty spray!

Remember to respect the environment by staying on marked trails and disposing of waste responsibly. Safe travels, and enjoy your day trips in Vatnajökull National Park!