Iceland is a country of adventure, with its rugged landscapes and natural wonders. One of the best places to experience Icelandic adventure is Skaftafell, a national park in the southeast of the country. In this travelogue, I will take you on a journey through Skaftafell, kayaking on a glacial lagoon and hiking on a glacier.
My adventure started at the glacial lagoon of Jökulsárlón, where I joined a kayaking tour. The lagoon is fed by the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier and is home to icebergs of all shapes and sizes. The kayaking tour takes you up close to the icebergs, allowing you to appreciate their beauty and magnitude.
Kayaking on the glacial lagoon is a surreal experience, surrounded by the tranquility of the water and the magnificence of the glacier. The guides are knowledgeable and passionate about the environment and share their insights into the glacial landscape and its inhabitants.
The next day, I went glacier hiking on the Skaftafellsjökull glacier. The glacier is part of the Vatnajökull glacier, the largest glacier in Europe. The hike takes you through the glacier’s ice formations, crevasses, and moulins, with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
The glacier hiking tour requires some physical fitness and is not recommended for those with mobility issues. However, the experience is well worth it, as you get to witness the majesty of the glacier up close and personal.
In addition to kayaking and glacier hiking, Skaftafell offers a range of other activities for adventure seekers. The park has hiking trails for all levels of fitness, with stunning views of the glacier and surrounding landscapes. The Svartifoss waterfall is a popular attraction in the park, with its unique hexagonal basalt columns.
The park also offers a variety of camping and accommodation options, from basic campsites to luxury lodges. The campsite at Skaftafell is a popular spot for hikers and adventure seekers, with all the necessary amenities and a friendly atmosphere.
In conclusion, Skaftafell is a destination that offers adventure, natural beauty, and tranquility, all in one. The glacial lagoon kayaking and glacier hiking are once-in-a-lifetime experiences that will stay with you forever. I highly recommend visiting Skaftafell and experiencing the Icelandic adventure for yourself.
