Skaftafell National Park

Overview

Skaftafell National Park is a breathtaking natural attraction located in the heart of Iceland. It offers stunning landscapes, including glaciers, waterfalls, and hiking trails.

Known for its diverse ecosystems and geological features, Skaftafell is a key part of the larger Vatnajökull National Park and offers some of the most iconic landscapes in Iceland.

National Park Hiking Nature

Location

Address

Skaftafell Visitor Centre, Skaftafell

Neighborhood: Skaftafell

Coordinates

63.966700, -17.116700

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

tuesday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

wednesday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

thursday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

friday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

saturday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

sunday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Admission

Adults

free

Children

free

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

June-August

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds, better lighting for photos

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

3 hours

Recommended

1 day

Full Experience

multiple days

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild

• spring blooms
• waterfalls

summer

warm

• extended daylight
• all trails open

autumn

cool

• fall colors
• harvest

winter

cold

• snowy landscapes
• northern lights

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book ahead for guided tours
Check weather conditions
Bring appropriate gear

What to Bring

essential

ID water hiking boots

seasonal

warm clothes (winter) sunglasses (summer)

not allowed

drones (without permit) pets

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate to high

• uneven terrain
• weather changes

Medical facilities: first aid available at visitor center

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, credit cards

Currency

Icelandic Krona (ISK)

Typical Costs

entry free

guided tours $50-$150

parking $5

food $10-$20

Dress Code

comfortable hiking clothes, layered clothing, sturdy hiking boots, waterproof hiking boots, inappropriate clothing for hiking

Booking Tips

• at least a few days for guided tours
• official website or local tour operators
• varies by tour operator
• available for guided tours

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Vatnajökull National Park App

Size: 75 MB

Features: Map, Trail information, Weather updates

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center

Charging Stations: Visitor center

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Keflavík International Airport

Distance: 280 km

Travel Time: 4 hours

car

$100 4 hours

public_transport

$80 5 hours

From City Center

Distance: 320 km

bus

$40 4.5 hours

car

$80 4 hours

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Unique landscapes, rich history

Historical Significance: Part of the larger Vatnajökull National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Insider Tips

Free entry for Icelandic residents
Best views from Svartifoss waterfall

Local Recommendations

• Try local lamb soup
• Ask for guide Jón

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Sæll

thank_you Takk

where_is Hvar er

how_much Hversu mikið kostar þetta

beautiful Fagur

ticket Inngangseymun

Guide Languages: Icelandic, English, German

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Svínafellsjökull Glacier

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Wide-angle shots

Result: Breathtaking glacier views

#Iceland #Glacier #Nature

Photography Rules

allowed areas all outdoor areas

prohibited areas visitor center

flash photography allowed in outdoor areas

commercial photography permit needed for professional use

drone policy permit required for drone use

tripod policy allowed in designated areas

selfie sticks allowed

Nearby Attractions

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Distance: 40 km

Walking: not walkable

Type: Glacier Lagoon

Diamond Beach