Destinations

Where to go within Vatnajökull National Park?

NORTH TERRITORY

Jökulsárgljúfur is an area that takes its name from a canyon carved out by river Jökulsá á Fjöllum. Within this area is Ásbyrgi; surrounded by horseshoe-shaped cliffs and also the location of Ásbyrgi visitor centre and a large camp site. Also within Jökulsárgljúfur are waterfall Dettifoss and crater plugs Hljóðaklettar, both a must see for every visitor in the north.

Central volcano Askja and highland oasis Herðubreiðarlindir are further up in the highlands. To get there requires a 4x4 transport. They are best accessed by road 901 and then F905. Two small fords need to be crossed on this way. Alternative route is through road F88 but then two fords that need extreme caution need to be crossed.

Further information about the north area and nearby accommodation: www.visitnortheasticeland.is

EAST TERRITORY

Vatnajökull National Park‘s visitor centre in the east, Snæfellstofa, is the perfect starting point before heading to the east highlands. Rangers are based in Snæfell, Hvannalindir and Kverkfjöll during the summertime, providing information about each area. A 4x4 vehicle is required when entering the highlands.

Further information about the east area and nearby accommodation: www.east.is

SOUTH TERRITORY

A visitor centre is located in Skaftafell, which is open throughout the year.  Next to it is a camp site and plenty of hiking opportunites. Further to the east are Heinaberg, Hjallanes and Hoffell, each area offering further hiking opportunities and close proximity with the numerous outlet glaciers that characterise the area. All these places can be reached by normal vehicles, all the year round.

Further information about the south area and nearby accommodation: www.visitvatnajokull.is

WEST TERRITORY

Laki is also known as Lakagígar ('Laki craters'), refering to the series of craters created in a gigantic eruption some 250 years ago. Once a source of devastation and famine, Lakagígar have now become a popular tourist attraction.

From road nr. 1, road F206 leads to Laki. A 4x4 vehicle that can tackle small rivers is required. Note that the rivers can grow considerably during rain.

Further information about the west territory and nearby accommodation: www.klaustur.is