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366 km
About 5 h 45 min
Car 1–4 · Van 5–7
Free cancellation 24 h
South-east · from KEF
About Skaftafell and the drive
Skaftafell is the southern gateway to Vatnajökull National Park, set between the black sands of Skeiðarársandur and the ice of Vatnajökull, Iceland's largest ice cap. From the visitor centre, marked trails lead up to Svartifoss, the waterfall framed by dark basalt columns, and out towards the glacier tongue of Skaftafellsjökull. Guided glacier walks and, in winter, ice cave trips run by local operators start in this area, so many travellers base themselves here for a night or two.
Getting there from Keflavík Airport means crossing almost the whole south coast on Route 1. After Reykjavík's outskirts you pass Selfoss, the waterfalls at Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, the village of Vík and Kirkjubæjarklaustur before the road runs out across the sands towards the mountains. It is a long transfer, and after an overnight flight it is worth building in proper breaks rather than trying to sightsee all the way.
There is very little accommodation in Skaftafell itself; most people stay at hotels and farm guesthouses spread along Route 1 either side of the park. Give us the exact address and your driver takes you right to the door.
Seasons and roads
Winter daylight is short and the open sands near Skaftafell can see strong crosswinds and blowing snow or sand. If the forecast is poor we will contact you about adjusting the timing or splitting the journey.
