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Activities in Skaftafell

Vatnajökull National Park Hiking Tour

Venture out on one of Iceland's most challenging and spectacular hiking tours. On this 18 km (11.1 mi) circular route, you'll cross birch forests, mountain ridges and natural viewpoints overlooking the glaciers of Vatnajökull National Park. Are you up to the challenge?

Venture out on one of Iceland's most challenging and spectacular hiking tours. On this 18 km (11.1 mi) circular route, you'll cross birch forests, mountain ridges and natural viewpoints overlooking the glaciers of Vatnajökull National Park. Are you up to the challenge?

Activity Details

At the indicated time, we'll meet in front of the Skaftafell Visitor's Centre, in the Vatnajökull National Park, where we'll get ready to start one of the most demanding hiking routes in Iceland. From this point, we'll start to gain altitude towards the trails that lead into the mountains. Are you ready to discover landscapes that look like something out of another planet?

During the first stages of the hike, we'll pass through a quiet birch forest. As we progress, the landscape will change rapidly, and we'll enter high and exposed areas, where the terrain becomes steeper and rockier.

Along the way, we'll stop at the famous Svartifoss waterfall. Its black basalt columns, perfectly formed by ancient volcanic eruptions, create a scenery as unique as it is photogenic.

From here, the route will take you along ridges that offer panoramic views of hanging glaciers, volcanic peaks and vast black plains stretching down to the sea. With every step, your effort will be rewarded by the beauty of the scenery. It will take your breath away!

Depending on weather conditions and the pace of the group, we may continue on to a ridge that offers an even more impressive view of Vatnajökull, Europe's largest glacier. This final stretch requires extra effort, but the visual spectacle is unparalleled.

Finally, we'll start our way back to the starting point, following a downhill section that completes this circular route. We'll say goodbye in Skaftafell after about 8 hours and a total of 18 km (11.1 mi) of walking.

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More Information

Duration

8 hours.

Language The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English.

The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English.

Included

English–speaking guide

Safety equipment for the activity

Not included

Food and drinks

When to book?

You can book up until 1 hour before the activity as long as there are still places. Book now to guarantee your spot.

Type of voucher

Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.

Accessibility

Not wheelchair accessible.

Sustainability

All services published on Civitatis are carried out in accordance with our Sustainability Code.

Sustainability Code

Our providers commit to:

  • Provide a safe and satisfying experience.
  • Reduce, reuse, recycle.
  • Incorporate eco-conscious technologies.
  • Uphold fair employment standards.
  • Foster the growth of local communities.
  • Preserve the integrity of local culture.
  • Safeguard both cultural and environmental heritage.
  • Ensure ethical treatment of animals.
  • Operate with honesty and transparency.
  • Encourage sustainable behaviors among customers and staff.

This particular activity contributes as follows:

  • No printing of documentation required.
  • Has a gender equality policy.
  • Has a carbon footprint offset policy.

Pets

Not permitted.

Frequently asked questions

  • Q - Are there any requirements?

    A - Yes, you need to be in good physical condition to participate in this activity.

  • Q - What do I need to bring?

    A - To make the most of this experience, we recommend that you bring warm clothes, waterproof clothing and hiking boots. As this is a full-day hiking route, you'll also need to bring picnic food (sandwiches, energy bars, fruit...) and enough water in a backpack to keep you fuelled throughout the whole route.

  • Q - Why do this activity with Civitatis?

    A - Your safety is our priority. Civitatis works with certified providers for reliable and safe adventures. More information

  • Q - Which local supplier will be providing the tour?

    A - Reykjavik Excursions (Icelandia) Corporate name: Ferdaskrifstofa Kynnisferda ehf. Registered Office: Klettagardar 12, Reykjavík, Iceland Tax Identification Number (VAT ID): 23689 Contact information Email: main@re.is Phone: +354 5990000

  • Q - How to book?

    A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.

  • Q - Is a minimum number of participants required?

    A - This activity requires a minimum of 1 participants. Should this number not be reached, we'll get in touch with you to offer alternatives.

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If you have any other questions please contact us.

Meeting point

Skaftafell Visitor's Centre

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