Understand

The park, situated on the west side of Vatnajkull - Europe's largest glacier, is a mesmerizing destination. Skaftafell, the name of the hill that runs along one of the glacier fingers and between the mountains, adds to the allure of the area. A visitor center, open until 4pm, provides a wealth of information and a campsite with full amenities, open from mid-May, offers a convenient base for exploration. The disability access ensures that everyone can enjoy the park to its fullest. Don't miss out on this incredible experience!

Get in

The Skaftafell information center is your go-to place for all your needs throughout the year. It's open every day, from at least 10am to 4pm, and even longer in the summer. Don't forget to take advantage of the free toilets while you're there. Keep in mind, though, that the shop can be quite pricey, and the internet access, including Wi-Fi, is on the expensive side, charging about 1000Kr per hour. Just a friendly tip: the staff may not always have the most up-to-date information on the tracks and paths, despite what they may say. Lastly, there's free parking available, so you won't have to worry about that!

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

1. Icelandic Hot Dog (Pylsur)The Icelandic hot dog, or pylsur, is a beloved street food featuring a lamb or sheep meat sausage in a steamed bun. It's typically loaded with sweet and savory condiments such as ketchup, mustard, onions, crispy fried onions, and remoulade sauce. This tasty handheld treat can be found at roadside stands, festivals, and even the famous Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur stand in Reykjavik, which claims to serve the best hot dogs in Europe.

2. Fermented Shark (Hákarl)A traditional Icelandic delicacy, fermented shark is made from Greenland shark that undergoes a lengthy process of fermentation and drying, which can take up to six months. The result is a unique, strong-smelling, and flavorful meat often served in chunks accompanied by a shots of Brennivín, a potent Icelandic schnapps made from caraway seeds and anise. Though not for the faint-hearted, hákarl offers a truly authentic culinary experience.

3. PlokkfiskurPlokkfiskur is a traditional Icelandic dish composed of dried codfish (stockfish) that is rehydrated and mashed with various seasonings, typically potatoes, onions, and butter. It's similar to fish pâté and often enjoyed with dark rye bread, pickled herring, and boiled eggs. This simple yet hearty meal can be found at many restaurants and cafés across the country, offering a taste of Icelandic comfort food.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing