Top Things to do in Vatnajokull National Park
What to do and see in Vatnajokull National Park, East Region: The Best Things to do Good for Couples
The largest national park in Europe, Vatnajokull combines thick blue ice caves, black sand beaches, waterfalls, and even lush green fields to create an otherworldly landscape that begs to be explored. Ásbyrgi, a canyon known for its distinct horseshoe shape, is a must for those hoping to discover local woodland. Whether climbing Iceland’s highest peak, Hvannadalshnúkur, or hiking to the Detifoss waterfall, the country’s scenic terrain and breathtaking geological formations can’t be missed.
1. Vatnajokull Glacier
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 291 reviews
Reviewed By szapa11 - Barcelona, Spain
Walked through the Falljökull glacier (Vatnajokull) guided by Melrakki Adventures, what a nice experience! You must take a guide to go there, otherwise it's too dangerous. We got the chance to see a nice blue ice cave too. With Oddur the experience was great! Very recommendable!
2. Atlantsflug
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 107 reviews
We offer sightseeing flights by helicopter and fixed wing aircraft from our stations in Skaftafell Terminal which provide a breathtakingly spectacular view of glaciers, volcanoes, riverbeds and Iceland‘s unspoiled highland wonders. In Skaftafell we operate all year round from our own airfield Skaftafell Terminal–Tour Center, the largest privately owned airport in Iceland. Atlantsflug has been operating since 2004 and is built upon decades of experience flying over the South of Iceland ensuring the greatest sights and highest quality service, comfort and safety. We offer flexible solutions with any private and charter requests, and we specialize in aerial photography tours on specifically equipped aircraft with openable windows. We‘re looking forward to having you aboard!
3. Adventure Point
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 39 reviews
Join us on an adventure of a lifetime exploring the vast and beautiful Vatnajokull outlet glaciers. Do you have a dream outing in the southeast of Iceland, or do you want us to help you design a custom tour? We can help you create a one-of-a-kind tour where you can experience the great contrasts between the mightiest glacier in Europe and the stormy seas of the North Atlantic.
4. Melrakki Adventures
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 186 reviews
Melrakki Adventures is a small, family run adventure company in Iceland. We offer glacier hiking tours from Skaftafell.
5. Glacier and Volcano Expeditions
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 74 reviews
Glacier and Volcano Expeditions is a family company owned and operated by Guðný and Rowan, a young couple that live at the base of Icelands tallest volcano. We specialise in leading adventures within Vatnajökull National Park. Our focus is to provide environmentally sustainable expeditions of the highest possible standard of safety and experience.
6. Skaftafell National Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,128 reviews
Reviewed By Tissa010 - Rotterdam, The Netherlands
Beautiful area to do some hiking and see the big glaciers of Vatnajökull. You can choose your own route and difficulty, but if you're able you should definitely go up route 55 or 56 to the edge of the glacier.
7. Fjallsarlon Iceberg Lagoon Boat Tour
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 257 reviews
We offer Zodiac Boat Tours on the majestic Fjallsarlon Glacier Lagoon. Fjallsarlon is an isolated glacial lagoon in the realm of Vatnajokull. Arriving to the lagoon is like stepping into a dreamlike world that offers spectacular sights. We invite you to experience the breathtaking natural scenery as we take you on a guided boat tour along floating icebergs and giant glaciers!
8. Svartifoss Waterfall
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 742 reviews
Reviewed By _eli_9009 - Düsseldorf, Germany
We parked at the other parking, not the main one, and walked the small trail (marked as red - difficult) up the hill. It is not really difficult, only compared to the other way from the main parking marked as blue, it is more wild (& more fun) :) In total it took us 2h walking up, staying and the waterfall taking fotos and coming back down. Be careful as some part of the trail might be covered by ice in winter (very slippery).
9. Svinafell Glacier
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 107 reviews
Reviewed By Travel_Addict_Cyprus - Michigan, United States
Svínafellsjökull is one of many outlet glaciers (glacier tongues) of Vatnajökull, and part of the Skaftafell Nature Reserve. A great place to get very close to a glacier tongue. After visiting Skaftafellsjökull we drove here. Drove up the short gravel road and walked to the Svinafellsjökull glacier. We kept hiking to the left, over the rocky trail, for amazing views of the glacier. Then walked on the "mound" to the right, in the amazing field of lupines. Great photo ops. I personally loved Svinafellsjökull and it was really amazing to see the glacier from such proximity (unlike Skaftafellsjökull). We stayed here for a couple of hours, just sitting around and enjoying the views. From here we drove to Fjallsárlón, and then to Jökulsárlón and Diamond Beach, before we headed back to Reykjavik. What a great day exploring Vatnajokull National Park and its amazing sights!
10. Skaftafellsjokull
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 63 reviews
Reviewed By LouRod17 - Philadelphia, United States
The glacier is a nice hike away from the visitor center, I’m guessing a bit over a mile each way. The hike is worth doing as you get to enjoy the scenic views surrounding you. Once there, you can walk around the large open area. There looks to be the beginnings of a lagoon with a small stream of glacier water pouring into it. You can get close to the glacier and some folks were climbing up the sides of the glacier. Fantastic experience. There is parking and a cafeteria at the visitor center.
