Vatnajökull nasjonalpark - 27

Mathias R.

Helt utrolig. Livet blir aldri det samme.

Eirik S.

Flott natur og veldig grei campingplass!

Matija Z.

mjesto je exstra

Erik K.

Flott

R

One of Iceland’s greatest natural treasures — vast, diverse, and humbling in its sheer scale. Covering nearly 14% of the entire country, it’s Europe’s largest national park and home to Iceland’s most powerful landscapes: glaciers, volcanoes, ice caves, black deserts, and thundering waterfalls. At its heart lies the massive Vatnajökull glacier, the largest in Europe, surrounded by peaks, valleys, and rivers shaped by both ice and fire. Every corner of the park tells a story of geological power and constant transformation.

What makes Vatnajökull so special is its incredible variety. In one area you can stand at the foot of a glacier like Skaftafellsjökull or Svínafellsjökull, while in another you’ll find deep canyons, glacial lagoons, or geothermal vents. The park includes famous destinations such as Jökulsárlón, Svartifoss, and Skaftafell, but also countless hidden gems for those who venture off the main paths. It’s a paradise for hikers, photographers, and anyone who loves raw, untamed nature.

Accessibility is good along the South Coast, with well-maintained visitor centers like Skaftafell offering maps, guided tours, and facilities. However, once you step beyond the main areas, the park becomes truly wild — roads turn to gravel, trails become rugged, and cell signal fades. Preparation, proper gear, and respect for the elements are essential, especially for longer hikes or glacier exploration. Guided tours are strongly recommended for entering glaciers or ice caves safely.

The weather can be unpredictable, with strong winds, sudden rain, or even snow outside of summer months. Still, every type of weather brings its own magic — mist over the ice, glowing sunsets over black sands, or the eerie blue of an ice cave in winter. Wildlife enthusiasts may also spot reindeer, Arctic foxes, or nesting birds depending on the season.

Overall, Vatnajökull National Park is the ultimate showcase of Iceland’s natural drama. It’s a place where you can truly feel the planet’s power — where glaciers meet volcanoes, ice meets fire, and silence stretches across entire valleys. Whether you spend a few hours or several days, it’s an experience that stays with you long after you leave.

Niko G.

A Hidden Gem in Skaftafell, Vatnajökull National Park

If you love nature and hiking, Skaftafell – a breathtaking area within Vatnajökull National Park in Iceland – is absolutely worth a visit. The views from the top are unforgettable; it’s one of those rare moments when nature leaves you completely in awe. I found this place by accident, but it turned out to be one of the best surprises of my trip.

Skaftafell is easily accessible via Route 1. The closest towns are Kirkjubæjarklaustur (about 70 km to the west) and Höfn (around 130 km to the east), making it an easy detour along the Ring Road.

Once there, I discovered several marked hiking trails of varying difficulty. I chose the black trail – the most difficult and longest route – which leads to the Kristínartindar mountain peaks. Reaching the summit rewards you with stunning panoramic views and an up-close look at the vast glacier landscape surrounding you.

I set off a bit unprepared – too little water and hiking alone – which I wouldn’t recommend. Mobile phone connection disappears as you approach the top, so if anything were to happen, help would be hard to reach. When I realize that, my hiking trip chage to real adventure 😀

What made this hike even more special was the solitude. The trail was almost empty, offering a truly peaceful and authentic connection with Icelandic nature, it is raw but beatiful! While the trail is technically manageable, the steady uphill climb adds a physical challenge that requires decent fitness. Proper hiking boots are a must, as some sections are rocky and uneven.

Connor

Vatnajökull is a huge national park in Iceland with a mix of glaciers, volcanoes, and unique landscapes.
You can hike through the Skaftafell area to see waterfalls and glacier tongues, or visit Jökulsárlón and Diamond Beach to see icebergs in a lagoon and on the black sand.
For a true adventure, consider a guided tour to go ice caving or glacier hiking. It's a must-see for any nature lover, just be sure to dress in layers!

Valerie D.

We did the waterfall trail. Stunning with basalt walls surrounding. Three different viewpoints. Up up up but the path is well maintained. Nice staff. Beautiful glacier. Views. Food truck available. Clean bathrooms.